The aim of the Thunderbird Adventist Academy Athletic Department is to provide opportunities for students to reach their physical potential. Students can participate in physical education class, acro-sports, intramurals, and varsity league sports teams.

We want our students to:

• Grasp the importance of regular physical activity in their daily schedule
  
• Find various ways to stay physically active within and outside the school setting
  
• Develop the qualities of self-control, team work, self-assurance, camaraderie, hard work, and leadership skills
  
• See the mental, emotional, and physical benefits of a regular exercise program and see the importance of making physical education a part of their lifestyle.

VARSITY LEAGUE SPORTS
Thunderbird Adventist Academy participates in the Arizona Interscholastic Association (AIA) varsity high school sports league. The varsity sports program includes the following sports: women’s volleyball, basketball; men’s flag football, basketball, and baseball. Co-ed soccer is currently offered in the spring, but during the 2007-2008 school year, a men’s fall soccer and women’s spring soccer team will be started.

Students involved in varsity sports will receive physical education credit towards the graduation requirements. The amount of credit received will depend on the length of the season and the number of practices.

Each varsity sport tries to be involved in one tournament either held locally in the Phoenix area or at one of our Seventh-day Adventist colleges or universities.

ACRO-SPORTS
At the beginning of each school year, tryouts are held for the Thunderbird Wings, our acro-gymnastic team. The Wings practice every week day and perform on campus at the spring Home Show. They also take weekend trips to provide performances at local churches and schools within the Arizona Conference.

INTRAMURALS
Intramural sports is more than just a play time or recreation time, it is a special time in the week where all students and staff can enhance the educational experience offered at Thunderbird Adventist Academy through a wide variety of activities and games in a less competitive environment.