[6] Washburn Rural is a member of the Kansas State High School Activities Association and offers a variety of sports programs.

The football program won the state championship in 1985 and again in 1986 and 1989 under then head coach, Ron Bowen, who has since been inducted into the KSHSAA Hall of Fame.

[citation needed] On February 13, 2013, it was announced Steve Buhler would become the head football coach after spending 15 seasons at Rossville High School.

[citation needed] Clint Mietler who was hired in May 2010 coming from Douglas High School, and resigned after two seasons.

The boys' basketball program has experienced success throughout its history, winning state championships in 1966, 1982, and 1985.The 2010-2011 team captured the school's first league title in 14 years.

In July 2009, Bill Annan joined the Oklahoma State women's basketball team as director of player development, leaving the head coaching position to Kevin Bordewick.

The instructors were retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Virgil L Burke and Senior Master Sergeant Max Fullerton.

The objectives of AFJROTC are to educate and train high school cadets in citizenship, promote community service, instill responsibility, character, and self-discipline, while providing instruction in air and space fundamentals.

Instructors are retired Air Force Lieutenant Colonel Ron Daniels and Master Sergeant Wayne Long and there are approximately 120 cadets in the program.