The Department of Physical Education and Athletics offers workshops and clinics, intramural sports, intercollegiate athletics (varsity and "B" programs), informal recreational activities, aerobics programs, and club sports.

The New England Small College Athletic Conference Mission Statement
The New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC), founded in 1971, consists of 11 highly selective liberal arts colleges. Its members are committed first and foremost to academic excellence and believe that athletic excellence supports Colby's educational mission.

Each institution is committed to providing a comprehensive athletic program, available to the entire student body. All participants in athletic activities are treated equitably.

The conference is based on mutual trust, and all members are committed to the highest ethical standards in their relationships with each other. It encourages its members to compete with one another and is committed to promoting equitable competition among them. The conference is committed to establishing common boundaries to keep athletics strong but in proportion to the overall academic mission of the member institutions.

In pursuit of this mission, the presidents of each NESCAC institution control intercollegiate athletic policy. The day-to-day operation of the athletic program is conducted by the director of athletics. Students on all intercollegiate teams are to be representative of the overall student body and are admitted with the expectation of the full participation in the life of the college. In all sports, conference members give primary emphasis to in-season competition. Programs have fixed starting and ending dates, and the number of contests is limited. The conference and each member will manage competition and post-season play in a manner that minimizes conflicts with class schedules and examinations.

Wellness Requirement
Students must complete the wellness requirement, met by attending lectures offered for all first-year students as an extension of the orientation program. The purpose of the program is to encourage and assist in the development of responsibility for one's own lifestyle through programs centered on mental, emotional, social, physical, and spiritual fitness.

Beginning with the Class of 2002, all students must meet the requirement by attending eight of 12 lectures offered during the first two semesters of their enrollment. Meeting the wellness requirement, which is certified by the Health Center, does not earn academic credit hours.

The Classes of 2000 and 2001 may meet the wellness requirement either by attending eight wellness lectures or by physical education activities, certified by the Athletic Department, including fitness classes, varsity athletics, activities classes, or club sports.

Although physical education activity is no longer required, the staff of the Athletic Department will, throughout the academic year, offer a series of athletic workshops and clinics open to all students. Participation in physical education activities is encouraged for all students.

Course Offerings

[097j] Basic Care and Prevention of Athletic Injuries Modern principles and practices in prevention and care of common injuries associated with the athletic, school, or recreational setting. Use of proper personal and field equipment support methods, practical/functional examinations, and therapeutic aids. Noncredit.