The tradition and pride for Wilmette continues through our spirited Wilmette Catholic football program. Originally formed between St. Francis Xavier and St. Joseph’s School athletes, WC football also welcomes team members enrolled in the SFX religious education program. During this exciting period of growth, 5th and 6th grade student-athletes participate in JV football, which focuses on fundamentals, development, and the love of the game. The 7th and 8th graders play at the Varsity level, which incorporates preparation for a high school-caliber experience in football. Competing against Catholic schools located throughout the North Shore and Chicago, Wilmette Catholic is poised for continued success, consistently appearing in league playoffs and championship games. Come support us on the field during the fall season. We are Wilmette Catholic!
CROSS COUNTRY
The Cross Country team was organized as a fall sport almost two decades ago and allows students in 5th through 8th grade to compete in meets across the North Shore. Acknowledging that our students have many other team options, the school takes a low-key approach to this sport. Practices take place twice per week and are strongly encouraged, but optional, for those with competing athletic team commitments. All practices take place at Gilson Park near the gorgeous lake front. Additionally, the program will continue to honor a tradition established by St. Joseph’s athletics and annually host the Ron Berger Run, a meet for teams throughout the North Shore. If participants seek additional cross-training opportunities, a conditioning cross-fit regiment is offered as a supplement for these student-athletes.
GIRLS VOLLEYBALL
The Girls Volleyball program has experienced incredible growth over the past several seasons with more than 100 girls participating in 5th through 8th grade. Sportsmanship, fundamentals, and teamwork development are cornerstones for the girls in the 5th, 6th, and 7th grades. The 8th grade student-athletes participate in the Varsity division, developing valuable skills that can transfer to high school and travel team programs. Practices take place several times per week, and coaching assignments and game schedules are developed independently by grade. Tournaments also run on certain weekends during this fall sport.
CHEERLEADING
During the fall season, the 8th grade girls have the opportunity to cheer on their classmates as members of the Wilmette Catholic cheerleading squad. Girls learn various cheers and dance movements while practicing good sportsmanship as they cheer on the Varsity team during the football season. Our cheerleading team builds community and provides our football team with the emphatic support they need for success on the field.
BASKETBALL
Basketball is a staple at Saint Francis Xavier and is also the longest operating tradition in the athletic department. Conducted during the winter season for both boys and girls, basketball enjoys the most student engagement and is constantly growing with exposure opportunities for our community, including trainings, tournaments, and clinics. Grades 5 through 7 focus on drilling the fundamentals and embracing the commitment to teamwork. The eighth graders play in a competitive league that emphasizes preparation for the high school level. Come join the Crusader faithful as we pack our SFX gym and work to maintain our standing as one of the consistently outstanding programs in Council II 3-A Athletics!
BOYS VOLLEYBALL
The Boys Volleyball program is the perfect exclamation to the spring season and school year. The 5th and 6th grade boys focus on sportsmanship, fundamentals, and teamwork development, similar to our girls’ program. In 7th and 8th grades, our teams compete in a competitive league with tournaments and a postseason playoff format. The goal is to have players enjoy building relationships with their teammates and coaches while becoming inspired to pursue the game of volleyball at the next level.
TRACK AND FIELD
The Saint Francis Xavier track and field program operates similarly to our cross country program. Students in 5th through 8th grade participate in a variety of track and field meets across the North Shore. Track and Field provides a valuable opportunity for all students to be outdoors, compete against rival schools, and visit other campuses. Practices are hosted at Loyola Academy two days per week, and most meets occur on Sundays. While there are many other options for spring athletic engagement, the SFX track and field program strongly encourages participation and commitment to team building.
