The philosophy of the Whitworth athletics program is founded upon the principles identified in the mission of the college. Central to that mission is the college's commitment to educating both the mind and the heart. Whitworth seeks to build character in its students by encouraging and preparing them to honor God, follow Christ, and serve humanity. This active integration of faith and learning is sought in all aspects of college life.

Whitworth expects coaches and players to approach competition with values of honesty, fairness, respect, compassion, and love for other human beings. Whitworth is committed to providing equivalent opportunities for men and women. The objectives of the athletics program should be measured with these principles in mind.

Whitworth expects athletes and teams to compete to the best of their ability, and supports athletes in their quest for excellence. Each athlete will measure his or her own effectiveness against personal standards of perseverance, skill, and continual improvement; team performance will be measured by these same standards, as well as by the community standard of competitive success. By the latter standard, Whitworth expects its teams to post winning seasons in our conference on a regular basis. The college as a whole will seek to make this success possible.

Whitworth expects athletes to succeed in the classroom and seeks to ensure that participation in athletics should not in any significant way hinder academic success. Whitworth encourages athletes to become involved in the total campus community spiritually, academically, and socially; the college views athletic participation as integral to the educational experience--as complementary to, rather than in competition with, academics.

Whitworth believes that the athletics program should make a significant contribution to the quality of community life at the institution. The college encourages its students, faculty, staff, and alumni, as well as the greater Spokane community, to enjoy and support athletic competition at Whitworth. Whitworth will help its student-athletes understand that they represent the college as a whole, and will encourage them to model the mission of the college at all times.