Lion Cubs

Dear TMS Lower School Families,

The Athletic Department is excited to invite your child to be part of something active, fun, and full of purpose this Fall - Lower School Soccer at The Master’s School! This after-school program (which we’re calling Lion Cubs) is designed to give students in grades 1–5 a chance to learn new skills, play with friends, and grow as young athletes, all in a Christ-centered environment that keeps joyful community at the heart.

Whether your child is new to sports or already lives and breathes the game, this program offers an accessible way to enjoy athletics right here on campus: no travel, no weekends, no stress! Just wholesome fun, skill-building, and shared experiences with classmates and caring mentors.

What to Expect

➢ Who: Students in Grades 1–5, grouped into smaller age-appropriate teams

➢ When: Mondays in September and October

3:15 PM: Students will be picked up by their coaches from the Lower School
4:15 PM: Red Team vs Blue Team games
5:00 PM: Parent pickup & student sign-out at the Pavilion

➢ Where: TMS Athletic Fields, newly marked for small-sided play

➢ Each session will include:

Warm-ups and a brief devotional thought
Skill-based activities: passing, shooting, teamwork, and more
Intramural games (5v5 for Grades 1–2 and 7v7 for Grades 3–5)

➢ Coaching will be led by Coach Lawrence with support from faculty, parent volunteers, and older student-athletes who are excited to invest in our younger Lions.

Why It Matters

This program reflects our vision for caring for students in body, soul, and mind while also giving families a chance to experience the joy of community. Whether you're looking for a way to get your child moving after school, or you're hoping to introduce them to sports in a gentle, Christ-honoring way, we hope you’ll join us!

Lion Cubs Sports are a great option for:

Families who want their children to have a sports experience without it becoming all-consuming
Parents looking for a low-cost, low-commitment way to try out team sports
Kids who simply want to run around, laugh, and learn something new with their classmates
Families (sports-minded or not) who love the idea of watching their children compete in TMS colors while building friendships and character.

Please save the dates and spread the word!

In Christ,

Josh Lawrence

Director of Athletics

The Master’s School
athletics@masterschool.org
860-651-9361 x1107

Registration closes September 5!

Lion Cubs Registration

Frequently Asked Questions

List of 13 frequently asked questions.

What should my child wear or bring?

Each player will receive a Lion Cubs jersey to keep. They should wear their jersey with athletic shorts, soccer socks, shin guards, and cleats. Students do not need to bring their own soccer ball - TMS Athletics will provide plenty of soccer balls for all players.
How are students grouped during practice?

Students will be grouped by age and skill level. The plan is to have students in Grades 1-2 compete on a smaller field while Grades 3-5 compete on a larger field.
Who is coaching and supervising the students?

The program is being facilitated by TMS Athletic Director Josh Lawrence with assistance from parent volunteers and Upper School Student Helpers.
Do I need to stay on campus during practice?

Not at all! Coaches will pick up all of the players at the Lower School after dismissal and walk them to the soccer fields. Parents should plan to pick up their players at the Pavilion at 5 p.m.
How much does the program cost?

$80 per player or $150 per family (2+ players).
What if my child has never played soccer before?

Great! Our dream would be to see every TMS Lower School student register to play! No matter what experience your son or daughter has with soccer - this is the program for them! We are all going to have fun getting better together!
What happens if there’s bad weather?

If at all possible the program will proceed outdoors. A little rain or cold weather will not stop us from playing! Decisions about cancellation or postponement will be made as early as possible so that families can plan accordingly.
What is the pickup procedure at the end of practice?

Parents/approved adults will need to sign out their players with Coach Lawrence at the end of practice. A sign-out sheet will be available in the Pavilion near the fields.
Will students get to keep their jerseys or team shirts?

Yes! Each player will receive a TMS Lion Cubs jersey to keep at the end of the season!
Where will players change?

Lower School teachers will organize students changing into their Lion Cubs uniforms after school before pickup by coaches. Lion Cubs will not be utilizing the locker rooms.
Will there be games, or is it just practice?

Great question! There will not be any games against other schools or towns, but players will play refereed intramural games each week after the skills portion. Families are welcome to come cheer on their athletes for the games, which will start at 4:15 p.m.
Can my child participate in only some of the dates?

Certainly, although TMS cannot offer prorated fees.
Will snacks or water be provided, or should we pack them?

Students should bring a water bottle and small snack. For health safety reasons, TMS will not provide snacks for players. There will be water jugs available at the fields for refills.

Please contact Coach Lawrence at jlawrence@masterschool.org with any further questions.

The Master's School

36 Westledge Road
West Simsbury, CT 06092

Phone: (860) 651-9361
Fax: (860) 651-9363

The Master’s School is an independent, college-preparatory, non-denominational Christian day school enrolling children in preschool through post-graduate in West Simsbury, CT.

The Master's School is fully accredited by New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).

The Master's School opens its doors to all qualified students regardless of race, color, national or ethnic origin, or religious affiliation. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, or national affiliation in the administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial aid, and other school-administered programs.