BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Championship Series Award was given to GPS
For the second consecutive year and the third time in the five-year history of the BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee Championship Series Award, the GPS athletic program has been recognized for having the highest performing and most sportsmanlike athletic program among Division II-AA schools. At the end of the school year, those schools with the top average point totals in their competitive division and class with no unsportsmanlike incidents are named the BlueCross Champions, according to BCBST and the TSSAA. In addition to a trophy, the school receives a cash donation.
Nine of the 14 sports offered at GPS are part of the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association: cross country, volleyball, soccer, golf, basketball, bowling, track and field, softball, and tennis. The award for the 2015-16 season is based on points earned in quarterfinal, semifinal, final round, and championship appearances divided by the number of sports offered at the school. Sports with individual and team competitions earn points based on team composite scores, not individual performances.
GPS also won the award in 2011-12 and 2014-15 in a division that includes Baylor, Brentwood Academy, Briarcrest Christian, Christian Brothers, Ensworth, Father Ryan, Harpeth Hall, Hutchinson, McCallie, Memphis University School, Montgomery Bell Academy, Pope John Paul II, St. Agnes, and St. Benedict.
“GPS is honored to be recognized for our athletic excellence and sportsmanship,” said Athletic Director Stacey Hill, “especially in a division that includes such fine independent schools.”
The soccer, softball, and tennis teams competed for state championships in semifinal and final round competitions in 2015-16. Golf and cross country were third in state tournaments. Bowling won their region and reached the semifinals of state competition.