The mission of the Athletic Program evolves from and complements the overall mission of the College.  An athletic program for women should be equal to the best available to men, one which would make it possible to provide experiences for Smith women consistent with the high quality of thier academic opportunities.

The staff of the athletic department believes that the best athletic program is fostered by:

• developing scholar-athletes who show positive self images, a sense of fair play and good citizenship, commitment and dedication to themselves and their team, enthusiasm for participation, leadership skills, improved skills, performance, fitness and team play
• offering multiple opportunities with a variety of competitive experiences in order to meet students' athletic needs and interests; including intercollegiate competition, club sports, intramural competition, recreation interests, and fitness/wellness activities
• employing teacher/coaches who are on the cutting edge of their area of expertise, who are professionl and ethical in their behavior and conduct, who act as positive role models for students, and who are involved in community/regional/national sport organizations
• providing facilities which allow for broad based programming and are competitive with the top programs in the country such that the top scholar athletes are attracted to the College
• creating competitive schedules which provide multiple competitive experiences:  test skills and application of knowledge, increase self image, motivate for continued improvement, challenge to reach attainable goals, create fun, develop sportsmanship, allow for self expression, and teach life lessons
• recruiting student athletes who exhibit dedication, commitment, talent, intellectual stimulation, high motivation, and who will add to and benefit from the College