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Hyde Park Academy Thunderbirds Build Community Through CPS Athletics

The public high school's athletic program connects students and residents through Chicago Public League competition and a history of regional success.

By Hyde Park Chi Sport Desk · Published July 17, 2026

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Hyde Park Academy High School fields Thunderbirds teams that compete in the Chicago Public League as an Illinois High School Association member, providing a direct link between neighborhood youth and organized high school athletics on Chicago's south side.

Program roots in local enrollment

Hyde Park Academy operates as a public four-year high school serving the Woodlawn neighborhood with an enrollment of approximately 715 students. This size supports sustained participation across boys and girls programs under athletic director Alfonzo Lewis, whose contact is listed as alewis61@cps.edu for both divisions.

History of regional titles

The basketball program recorded four regional championships for the boys team between 2003 and 2009 along with three consecutive regional titles for the girls team from 2002 to 2005. These achievements remain part of the documented record that illustrates consistent local performance within the Chicago Public League structure.

Mascot transition and compliance

The school changed its mascot from Indians to Thunderbirds in 2009 to meet Illinois High School Association regulations on school mascots. The update aligned the program with current association standards while preserving team identity for ongoing community events.

Residents and families interested in current schedules or participation can review details through the athletics pages maintained at hydeparkathletics.com and hpathletics.org. Contact with the athletic director offers the next practical step for those seeking involvement in the Thunderbirds programs.

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