Athletics

District 65 and the City of Evanston are excited to partner together to provide access to youth athletics programming. Participating in athletics provides opportunities for students to get physical activity, develop relationships with peers, learn the importance of teamwork, build self-esteem, learn valuable life skills, and more!

Students in grades 4-5 at all District 65 elementary and magnet schools will have the opportunity to participate in the following seasonal sports: flag football and cross country (fall); basketball and cheerleading (winter); and soccer, track, and tennis (spring).

Athletics are more fun when we cheer each other on! View City of Evanston's game schedules

More information: volunteer coaches, registration, and Frequently Asked Questions

Beginning in the 2026-2027 school year, we are proud that all four middle schools will increase their participation with the Illinois Elementary School Association (IESA)! During the 2025-2026 school year, District 65 aligned all middle school interscholastic sports with IESA. Our student-athletes gained expanded opportunities to compete, grow, and represent their schools with pride while experiencing the same standards and pathways available to students across Illinois.

This transition was about more than athletics — it was about creating greater access, equity, belonging, and opportunity for every student-athlete in D65. The district also began building strong partnerships with Evanston Township High School feeder sports coaches and community athletic programs to further support both player and coach development across Evanston.

Together, our schools, families, coaches, and community partners helped lay the foundation for a stronger and more connected future for D65 athletics.