AFL
AFL has a strong and growing presence at Cranbrook. The programme caters for players of all abilities, with a strong emphasis on skill development, teamwork, and game-sense training. Boys compete in the combined Independent Schools AFL competition, with teams entered in all three divisions: Juniors (Years 7–8), Intermediates (Years 9–10), and Opens. This ensures students of every playing level have the opportunity to participate and represent the School. Holiday camps and tours are also a feature of the programme, providing additional avenues for player development and team growth. Training takes place after school as well as during allocated Sport periods in the timetable. The programme also makes regular use of Cranbrook’s Murray Rose Aquatic and Fitness Centre, incorporating athletic development to support player performance.
ATHLETICS
Athletics is an important part of the Cranbrook sports programme, with the season taking place in the middle of Term 3. Boys represent the School at the CAS Championships and girls compete in the ISA Championships, both held in the final week of Term 3. In the lead up to these events, students take part in combined CAS/ISA weekly meets that provide strong competition and valuable preparation. Additional athletics training is available year-round for students who wish to further develop their skills, with our flagship Speed and Agility sessions held on Friday mornings in Terms 1 and 4. These sessions are open to all students and focus on building strength, technique, and performance across multiple disciplines.
CROSS COUNTRY
Cross Country is one of Cranbrook’s most successful sports, with the School having secured the CAS Open title seven times in the past thirteen years. The programme is inclusive, welcoming students of all ability levels from elite athletes to those who simply enjoy recreational running. Students in Years 7–12 compete in the combined CAS/GPS/ISA invitational competitions held on Saturdays across Sydney, with boys and girls getting the chance to qualify for the Combined Independent Schools Race through CAS and ISA, respectively. Race distances are 4 km for Years 7–8, 6 km for Years 9–10, and 8 km for Years 11–12. Cross Country is also flexible, allowing students to combine it with another winter sport such as AFL or Netball. Invitational carnivals are scheduled on Saturday mornings, giving students the opportunity to compete in another sport for Cranbrook in the afternoon.
SNOWSPORTS
Snowsports is offered as part of Cranbrook’s winter programme for students who are interested in pursuing competition on the snow. Students compete at the Regional Interschool Snowsports Competitions held at Perisher, Thredbo, and Mount Buller, with pathways available to progress to State and National levels. Cranbrook also offers overseas trips for Snowsports, giving students the chance to test themselves in international conditions and gain valuable experience beyond the Australian circuit.
RUGBY
Rugby holds a proud and long-standing tradition at Cranbrook, with students of all abilities encouraged to take part. Boys compete in the CAS competition, with additional pre-season fixtures played against a range of GPS and ISA schools to broaden competitive experience. A cornerstone of winter sport at Cranbrook is the tradition of the 1st XV team playing at 3.15pm on Hordern Oval. These matches bring the Cranbrook Community together and serve as a true celebration of sport. The programme is supported by experienced coaches who provide tailored development for players at all levels. Rugby also offers a range of holiday camps and touring opportunities, both within Australia and overseas, giving students valuable experiences on and off the field.
FOOTBALL
Football is one of the largest winter sports at Cranbrook, attracting players of all ages and abilities. Boys compete in the CAS competition, while girls represent the School in the ISA competition. Both pathways provide strong opportunities for development and competition against quality opposition. Training occurs before and after school, as well as during allocated Sport periods. Fixtures are structured to enable students to play for both Cranbrook and their club team. The coaching staff in the Football programme are carefully selected for their professional expertise and their ability to adapt training to suit all levels of experience. Holiday camps and touring opportunities are also a feature of the programme, offering further development and enrichment for players.
NETBALL
Netball is Cranbrook’s newest sport, offering an exciting opportunity for our girls to represent the School in the highly competitive ISA competition. As one of the fastest-growing female sports in Australia, Netball provides students with the chance to develop teamwork, agility, and game awareness at a high level.
Training and home fixtures are held on Cranbrook’s world-class Vicars Courts, providing an outstanding environment for both skill development and competition. With expert coaching and a clear representative pathway through ISA, the programme is designed to support players of all abilities as they grow in confidence and performance.
WINTER SAILING
Cranbrook has a proud history as one of the top-ranked school sailing teams in the country, having been NSW Schools Champions in 2023, 2024, and 2025, as well as Australian Schools Champions in 2025. We also have many current sailors competing at national and international level in Junior and Youth divisions. Whether completely new to sailing or experienced on the water, there are programmes to support every level. Training takes place during the timetable and after school at the Mick Grace Boatshed located on Sydney Harbour at Rose Bay, a dedicated space where students can challenge themselves, build confidence, and extend their skills. The programme fosters teamwork and connection across year groups.
WINTER SWIMMING
Cranbrook Aquatics Swimming Club offers pathways from Development to National level squads. The Squad programme is open to anyone who wishes to become swim-safe, improve skill development and fitness, or train competitively. Friday night “Brook Sprint” races are a season highlight, with electronic timing allowing students to track their progress. The Gold Squad programme provides two additional weekly sessions to Cranbrook students aged 14 years and older to improve fitness and skill development.
WINTER VOLLEYBALL
The Winter Volleyball programme at Cranbrook is open to both boys and girls in Year 10, Year 11, and Year 12. Students compete in the CAS competition, providing a strong platform for skill development and school representation. Training sessions are held in the Senior and Junior School gymnasiums, with expert coaching provided. Sessions are scheduled before and after school to give students flexibility alongside their academic commitments.
WINTER TENNIS
Tennis is a popular summer sport at Cranbrook, offering opportunities for students of all ages and abilities to participate, improve, and compete. Cranbrook boys play in the CAS competition, while Cranbrook girls compete in the ISA competition, with matches held on Saturday. Players are graded on ability and placed in teams that best suit their development. Every student benefits from access to professional coaching, with sessions tailored to individual strengths and areas for improvement. The programme is supported by excellent facilities, including four professional-grade courts at the Junior School campus and additional synthetic courts at Lyne Park. Tennis camps are also offered during the school holidays for students wishing to further improve their game.
