SAS Atoms

Syracuse Academy of Science Charter School offers an interscholastic athletic program that aligns with our educational values and academic philosophy for our students. The focus is on the development of the individual, while also fostering an atmosphere of teamwork, citizenship, and good sportsmanship. In addition, the program emphasizes discipline, respect, leadership, loyalty, and cooperation.

A variety of programs are provided based on student interest, participation, and developmental needs. SASCS offers qualified coaches who are positive role models with an enthusiastic attitude about working with student-athletes. The environment created provides the opportunity for athletes to bring together home, school, and community as an integral part of the curriculum successfully. Our athletes are scholars first, and a GPA of 2.5 must be maintained to remain eligible to participate in competition.

The Atoms and Lady Atoms compete in Section III of the Onondaga High School League of the New York State Public High School Athletic Association.

The Atoms' home court is “The Lab,” located at the high school. The high school also boasts a comprehensive training room, including weights and cardiovascular equipment, to ensure athletes maintain their competitive edge year-round

At Syracuse Academy of Science, the Atom represents more than a symbol. It reflects who we are as a school community. Atoms are the building blocks of everything in the world, and our students are the building blocks of the future. The mascot’s determined stance and focused expression remind us that learning is not passive. It takes effort, teamwork, curiosity, and resilience.

Our student-athletes carry this mindset into every practice, every classroom, and every competition. They lead with hard work. They represent their school with pride. And they show that academic strength and athletic excellence are not separate paths — they support each other.

The Atoms are strong.
The Atoms are bold.
The Atoms keep moving forward.

Reginald Pickard graduated from G.W. Fowler High School in Syracuse, NY Class of 1981. Upon graduation, he joined the United States Army and served 11 years before being Honorably Discharged in 1992.

Pickard took the role as the girl's basketball coach in 2010 and has been with the program and school for eight years. He led the Lady Atoms to a number two state-ranked basketball program in 2018; winning three league titles, one section III title, one regional title, and state runner-up. Pickard has thrice been named OHSL Coach of the Year. He was named Section III Class C Coach of the Year in 2018.

He adopted the motto Let Me Be Great! in honor of Rasheed Baker. Click Here to Learn More.