Athletics at Shady Side | Best School for Athletes in Pittsburgh

A legacy of Strength, a future in motion

For more than 140 years, generations of student athletes have been shaped by the athletic program at Shady Side—instilling resilience, teamwork, and the drive to excel. From the earliest days of the Academy, when competition was central to an all-boys education, to the pivotal introduction of girls’ sports with coeducation in the 1970s, our program has continually evolved—expanding opportunities and strengthening our community.

Explore Our Teams

Through every era, athletics at Shady Side has meant more than just competition—it's been a proving ground for character, leadership, and lifelong well-being. Rivalries have been fierce and championships hard-fought. Today, with over 60 teams across three seasons and three divisions, state-of-the-art facilities, and dedicated coaches, our program remains one of the most robust in the region.

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WhyAthletics MatterinToday's World.

Athletics at Shady Side are integral to preparing students for life beyond our campuses, fostering adaptability and leadership. Through sports, students develop confidence, critical thinking under pressure, and teamwork skills essential for achieving shared goals.

Alyssa Z.

Read Alyssa's Story about Alyssa Z.

Shady Side’s athletic teams compete in facilities that are almost as impressive as they are. What does that look like? Immaculately maintained turf fields that set the stage for every game. A state-of-the-art ice rink, an expansive field house with pool and squash courts, and top-tier fitness spaces. More than 130 acres, 10 tennis courts, and access to some of the region’s best competition. Having home-field advantage at SSA means competing in an environment built for champions.

Beginning in Middle School and continuing through Senior School, athletics are embedded in the curriculum and school day, ensuring all students benefit from physical activity, structured competition, and camaraderie. This approach cultivates school spirit while reinforcing lifelong habits of health and personal growth.

Bulldogs in the News

WSSA livestream — We recognize that movement and teamwork take many forms, extending beyond traditional athletics. At the Senior School, students can fulfill their athletics requirement by participating in the winter musical, where physical expression and ensemble work mirror the discipline of sport, or by joining the WSSA sports broadcast team, where collaboration and performance under pressure cultivate the same skills honed on the field. By embracing a broad definition of athletic engagement, we ensure that every student finds a meaningful way to develop resilience and a spirit of teamwork.

Lower Schools

Students build confidence and coordination through movement and play, laying the foundation for lifelong physical activity.

Middle School

Student-athletes develop resilience, teamwork, and leadership as they sharpen their skills and embrace new challenges.

Senior School

Athletes push their limits, balancing high-level competition with personal growth. They refine their skills, embrace discipline, and lead with character.

The Team Behind the Teams

Sean Simmons

Director of Athletics

Dave Vadnais P'27,'34

Assistant Athletic Director

Andrew Geisler

Assistant Athletic Director

Erika Cooper P'25,'28

Athletics Administrative Assistant

Joel DeBaldo

Athletics Equipment Manager

Lauren Germanowski

Athletic Trainer (AHN)

Brynn Mahoney

Assistant Athletic Trainer

Vale Woodard

Athletic Trainer (AHN)

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