Athletics at CLA

Athletics at CLA are designed to provide exposure and experience at the elementary level with opportunities to progress as students continue through to higher grade and ability levels. We’re all C-Hawks, cheering on our teams, supporting one another, and building lasting relationships.

High School Level

Welcome to the C-Hawk Nation!

California Lutheran competes in the California Interscholastic Federation-Southern Section, offering students a range of sports. We have a tradition of student leadership on and off the field, and our student-athletes are consistently recognized for league honors. CLA student-athletes also help coach summer camps for area grade schoolers.

A California Lutheran Academy football player in a blue jersey runs with the ball as a defender in white tries to tackle him

Football

California Lutheran Academy competes in the CIF 8-man football division against similarly sized schools throughout the Southern and San Diego sections. The program is led by Campus Pastor Rev. Andrew Schroeder. CLA football has a strong tradition of success, highlighted by sixteen league championships and three CIF-SS titles (1992, 1998, and 2000). The team typically includes 20–25 student-athletes, fostering both competitive play and strong team camaraderie.

Cross country runners in blue California Lutheran Academy jerseys surge forward at the start of a race

Cross-Country

California Lutheran Academy offers a cross-country program open to all students, regardless of prior running experience. Both boys’ and girls’ teams are formed based on student participation. The season generally includes four to five meets, with additional opportunities depending on scheduling. CLA has a history of developing dedicated runners, with several athletes continuing their careers at the collegiate level.

Volleyball players in blue jerseys huddle with arms around each other on the court, seen from behind

Volleyball

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League in girls’ volleyball, with two league matches scheduled each week during the season. The program includes both junior varsity and varsity teams, providing opportunities for athletes of all skill levels. A highlight of the season is the annual “Dive Into the Season” volleyball tournament hosted on campus. CLA volleyball has earned five league championships and a CIF-SS title in 2007, along with multiple playoff appearances over recent years.

A California Lutheran Academy basketball player rises to the rim in the gym

Boys’ Basketball

California Lutheran Academy participates in the Arrowhead League for boys’ basketball, competing in two league games per week. The program offers both junior varsity and varsity teams, emphasizing development and participation. CLA hosts the annual SoCal Classic Boys’ Basketball Tournament, a key event each season. The program has secured five league championships and has experienced recent success, including standout seasons in 2024 and 2025 with multiple individual honors earned by players.

A California Lutheran Academy girls basketball player in a white C-Hawks jersey lines up a shot in the gym

Girls’ Basketball

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League for girls’ basketball. The program is led by our athletic director, Mr. Michael Fromm, who is committed to the continued growth and development of the team. CLA girls’ basketball has a distinguished history, winning 23 league championships, including recent titles in 2023 and 2024. Like the boys, the girls’ team competes in the SoCal Classic Basketball Tournament hosted at CLA.

A California Lutheran Academy soccer player in a blue jersey kicks the ball across a grass field

Soccer

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League in soccer, with two matches scheduled weekly during the season. The program currently fields a co-ed team, typically consisting of 15–20 athletes. As enrollment continues to grow, the program is focused on expanding participation and increasing competitiveness in the coming years.

A young baseball player in a blue number 2 jersey and helmet runs toward a base on the dirt infield

Baseball

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League in baseball. The program most recently captured a league championship in 2025 under head coach Callahan Diersen. Team rosters typically include 12–14 players. The coaching staff is dedicated to developing athletes of all experience levels while promoting a strong understanding of the game.

A high school softball player in a white uniform and blue helmet waits at the plate with her bat raised

Softball

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League in softball. The program has won six league championships, most recently in 2015. The team plays multiple games each week during the season. Rev. Andrew Schroeder brings extensive experience to the program and remains committed to fostering continued growth and success.

Sprinters in blue uniforms burst out of the starting blocks on a red track

Track & Field

California Lutheran Academy competes in the Arrowhead League in track and field, offering opportunities for both boys and girls. The season includes five league meets and one to two additional meets across southern California. The boys’ team most recently won a league championship in 2025. With a smaller roster, student-athletes often have the opportunity to compete in multiple events, encouraging versatility and overall athletic development.

Elementary and Junior High Level

The junior high volleyball team poses in the gym wearing blue shirts and medals

Boys and Girls Volleyball (Grades 5-8)

Interscholastic coed volleyball is offered in the fall.

Grade school students chase a soccer ball across a green field on soccer day

Interscholastic Soccer Day (Grades 3-8)

To experience the sport, students join with our affiliated SoCal Lutheran schools to play several soccer games with other students of their age level.

A grade school student leaps forward on the track during a track meet while adults and teammates watch

Track and Field Experience (Grades 1-8)

Students participate in an interscholastic track meet in the spring, to gain experience in the various events of track and field.

A grade school basketball player in a blue number 21 jersey shoots toward the hoop in the gym beneath an American flag

Boys and Girls Basketball (Grades 5-8)

CLA offers interscholastic basketball for both girls and boys in the winter, including hosting our own CLA Classic Basketball Tournament in February.

“I have appreciated the tremendous aid given to me by teachers regarding homework and the college process. Everyone is so open and willing to give advice or just a listening ear. Also, the sports coaches: Even though they spend all day teaching, they come with a great attitude and a practice plan to create an exciting practice atmosphere while also preparing us for games and even future sports careers.”

EA, Recent CLA Graduate

Come Visit Us!

The best way to see if California Lutheran Academy is a good fit for your family is to see our campus in action. During your time, you will visit our classrooms and facilities, meet our school leaders, and have all your questions answered. We are here to help as your family explores the best place for your student.