Winter 2015 Bulletin by Howard Voigt

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Volume 84, Issue 2 â&#x20AC;˘ Winter 2015

THE BULLETIN Official Publication of the Minnesota State High School League 2100 Freeway Boulevard Brooklyn Center, MN 55430-1735 763-560-2262 http://www.MSHSL.org Information within this Bulletin may be reprinted only with the permission of the MSHSL.

Volume 84, Issue 2 Winter 2015 Editorial Staff Editor: Howard W. Voigt Assistant Editor: Ellen Rajkowski Contributing Editors: David Stead Kevin Merkle Lisa Lissimore Craig Perry Jody Redman John Millea Rich Matter Chris Franson Board of Directors Regions 1-2A Scott McCready, St. Charles Regions 3-4A Bob Grey, Montevideo Regions 5-6A Emmett Keenan, St. Cloud Cathedral Regions 7-8A Chad Stoskopf, Esko Regions 1-2AA Tom Graupmann, Northfield Regions 3-4AA Troy Urdahl, St. Anthony Village Regions 5-6AA Dan Johnson, Hopkins Regions 7-8AA Mike Olson, Little Falls State School Boards Assn. Betsy Anderson, Hopkins Deborah Pauly, Jordan MN Assn. of Secondary Principals Wade Johnson, Warren-Alvarado-Oslo Erich Martens, Sauk Rapids-Rice Boys Sports Mark Solberg, Cambridge-Isanti Girls Sports Shelly Hotzler, Jackson County Central MN Music Educators Assn. Lane Powell, Fillmore Central Speech Assn. of MN Chris McDonald, Eagan Governor's Appointees Lea B. Olsen, Minneapolis Steven Beals, Montevideo Steve Eklund, Braham Paul McDonald, Ely

Printed by Carlson Print Group 7490 Golden Triangle Drive Eden Prairie, MN 55344 The MSHSL Bulletin is published in Fall, Winter and Spring and is designed to meet the needs of the 525 member Schools.

League Office Personnel The Minnesota State High School League Office has been established to provide special services to the member schools. Listed below are the office personnel: Extension / Voice Mailbox Executive Director - David Stead ........................ 480 Executive Assistant - Lynne Johnson ........... 490 Associate Director - Jody Redman ..................... 481 Administrative Assistant - Amie Ince ............. 491 Associate Director - Kevin Merkle ...................... 484 Administrative Assistant - Amanda Johnson 494 Officials Coordinator- Katie Schulte .............. 496 Associate Director - Craig Perry ......................... 482 Administrative Assistant - Susi Hollenbeck ... 492 Associate Director - Lisa Lissimore .................... 483 Administrative Assistant - Sheila Robinson .. 493 Director of Information - Howard W. Voigt .......... 485 Assistant - Ellen Rajkowski ........................... 542 Assistant Director - Richard Matter ..................... 497 Accounting Assistant - Sharon Bahma ......... 541 Ticketing Assistant - Nancy Myers ................ 487 Assistant Director - Chris Franson ...................... 488 Web Site Coordinator - Nancy Etter .............. 551 Graphic Designer - Tracie Bressler ............... 552 Media Specialist - John Millea ............................ 554 Program Specialist - Amy Doherty ..................... 495 Office Manager - Kristi Vesall ............................. 489 Administrative Assistant - Yvonne Walsh ..... 486 Receptionist - Nancy Etter ............................ 540

When calling the League Office (763-560-2262), direct your requests to staff persons as designated: Accounts Payable .............................................................. Sharon Bahma Accounts Receivable ......................................................... Yvonne Walsh Activity / Late Registrations ................................................ Chris Franson Activity Section Assignments ............................................. Chris Franson Administrative Regions ........................................................... Dave Stead Anyone Can Save A Life (EAP) ......................................... Jody Redman Archive Information ........................................................ Howard W. Voigt Athletic / Activity Director Advisory Committee ................... Kevin Merkle Board of Directors Information ............................................... Dave Stead Camps and Clinics .................................................................. Craig Perry Charter Officials Associations .............................................. Kevin Merkle Chemical Rule Interpretations ................................................ Craig Perry Continiung Education Requirement (CER) ........................ Jody Redman Cooperative Sponsorship ................................................. Lynne Johnson Debate, Speech, One Act Play & Music Judges ............... Chris Franson Registration of Debate, Speech, One Act Play & Music Judges ........... Nancy Etter Education Outreach ............................................................ Jody Redman ExCEL Program ................................................................. Lisa Lissimore Fine Arts Rules Interp. (Debate, Speech & Music) ........... Chris Franson Fine Arts Rules Interp. (One Act & Visual Arts) ................ Chris Franson Gender Equity ......................................................................... Dave Stead General Information on MSHSL ............................................. Dave Stead Hall of Fame ....................................................................... Lisa Lissimore Insurance ................................................................................. Rich Matter Interstate Sanctions ................................................................ Dave Stead League Publications ...................................................... Howard W. Voigt Marketing and Promotions ................................................. Lisa Lissimore Membership Information ................................................... Lynne Johnson News Media Services .................................................... Howard W. Voigt Non-School Competition ......................................................... Craig Perry Office Management ................................................................. Kristi Vesall Officials Program .................................................................. Kevin Merkle PSAs and TV Visuals ..................................................... Howard W. Voigt Registration of Officials ....................................................... Katie Schulte Results and Records ..................................................... Howard W. Voigt Rulebooks, Supplies, Awards ............................................ Yvonne Walsh Rules Interpretation Meetings ............................................. Katie Schulte School Eligibility ...................................................................... Craig Perry Sports Medicine Advisory Committee .................................... Craig Perry Spotlight on Scholarship Program ..................................... Lisa Lissimore Student Ejections .................................................................... Nancy Etter Student Eligibility .................................................................... Craig Perry Supplemental Allowances ...................................................... Kristi Vesall TEAM UP Program ............................................................. Jody Redman Ticket Assistant ..................................................................... Nancy Myers Triple “A” Award .................................................................. Jody Redman Web Site Development ....................................................... Chris Franson Web Site Assistance ............................................................... Nancy Etter WHY WE PLAY ................................................................... Jody Redman

Activity Rule Interpretations, Coach Incidents Reports, and Activity Advisory Committees

The MSHSL Logo is a registered mark of the organization and use in any manner is prohibited unless prior approval is obtained from the League.

Schedule of Board of Directors Meetings October 2 ................................. MSHSL Office Brooklyn Center December 4 ............................. MSHSL Office Brooklyn Center February 5 ................................ MSHSL Office Brooklyn Center April 2 ....................................... MSHSL Office Brooklyn Center June 1 ...................................... MSHSL Office Brooklyn Center Representative Assembly Meeting March 13 ........ Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park

Adapted Athletics (Bowling, Floor Hockey, Soccer, Softball) ... Rich Matter Alpine Skiing / Boys’ & Girls’ .................................................. Rich Matter Badminton / Girls’ .............................................................. Lisa Lissimore Baseball ................................................................................. Kevin Merkle Basketball / Boys’ ................................................................. Kevin Merkle Basketball / Girls’ ............................................................... Lisa Lissimore Cheerleaders ....................................................................... Jody Redman Clay Target .............................................................................. Craig Perry Cross Country Running / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................ Lisa Lissimore Dance Team / Girls’ .............................................................. Kevin Merkle Debate ................................................................................. Chris Franson Football .................................................................................. Kevin Merkle Golf / Boys’ & Girls’ ................................................................. Dave Stead Gymnastics / Girls’ .............................................................. Jody Redman Ice Hockey / Boys’ & Girls’ ..................................................... Craig Perry Lacrosse / Boys' & Girls’ ......................................................... Rich Matter Music ................................................................................... Chris Franson Nordic Ski Racing / Boys’ & Girls’ .......................................... Rich Matter One Act Play ....................................................................... Chris Franson Robotics ................................................................................ Amy Doherty Soccer / Boys’ & Girls’ ........................................................ Jody Redman Softball / Girls’ .................................................................... Lisa Lissimore Speech ................................................................................ Chris Franson Swimming and Diving / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................... Lisa Lissimore Synchronized Swimming / Girls’ ........................................ Lisa Lissimore Tennis / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................................................ Craig Perry Track & Field / Boys’ & Girls’ ............................................. Jody Redman Visual Arts ........................................................................... Chris Franson Volleyball / Girls’ ................................................................. Jody Redman Wrestling ................................................................................. Craig Perry

Dave’s Dialogue

Our challenge as educators ........................................................................................... 2

News and F eatures Features

Inside This Issue

Fun—it’s why they play football presented extra 4 Outdoor challenges, required extra effort

the right thing 6 Doing is seldom easy

Athletic Activities

Sports Medicine Advisory Committee initiatives under way ......................................... 9 The benefits of implementing the ePPE for preparticipation exams .......................... 10 Football safety policy revisions possible ...................................................................... 11

Officials

Great spontaneous sports moment ............................................................................. 13 BOLD lauded for sportsmanship.................................................................................. 13 Appreciation for hosting winter sports training clinics ................................................ 13

Also

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes ........................................................................... Congratulations to the Fall 2014 State Team Champions ............................................ 2014-2015 Calendar of State Events ............................................................................ Winter 2015 Calendar of Meetings ..............................................................................

15 17 17 18

On the Cover

Grand Meadow played the first outdoor Prep Bowl game on Friday morning, Nov. 21, at the University of Minnesota’s TCF Bank Stadium. The Superlarks won their second consecutive and overall Class 9-Man championship in convincing fashion, finishing the season undefeated at 14-0 with a 48-0 victory against Edgerton/Ellsworth. Senior Landon Jacobson (No. 5) rushed 34 times for 143 yards and three touchdowns. After raising the championship trophy high for fans to see, Jacobson rushed to the stands to receive a hug from girlfriend Rachel Oehlke. (Photographs by Minnesota Prep Photo / www.MNPrepPhoto.com)

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Winter 2015 Bulletin

Dave’s Dialogue

Our challenge as leaders is to demonstrate a vision that extends beyond the immediate issues placed before us. We must be open enough to accept the challenge and skilled enough to differentiate between truth and trickery. We must know when to defend an ideal and support a dream.

Our challenge as educators By David V. Stead Executive Director High on a hilltop overlooking the beautiful city of Venice, Italy, there lived a wise old man whom people called a genius. Legend had it that he could answer any question posed to him. Figuring they had a plan that was perfectly foolproof, two boys caught a small bird and headed for the hilltop. As they approached the wise old man, one of the boys held the little bird in his hands. “Wise old man,” he said, “Could you tell me if this bird in my hands is dead or alive?” The old man sized up the two boys and, without hesitation, he answered. “Son, if I tell you that the bird is alive, you will close your hands and crush the bird to death. If I say the bird is dead, you will open your hands and he will fly away. You see, son, in your hands you hold the power of life and death.” The boys looked at one another in total amazement. This old man truly is very wise, they thought. They had not fooled him for one minute. The old man then stroked his long white beard and smiled gently. “This I say to both of you without qualification,” he explained with a sincere, caring voice. “In your hands you hold the seed of failure or the potential for success. Your hands are very capable, but they must be used for the right things. They must be used to reap

rewards that you are capable of attaining.” As the boys descended from the wise old man’s hill, a new attitude overtook them, and they eagerly freed their captive bird. As they watched the bird flap his wings and fly to freedom, the boys realized how very precious the old man’s advice really was.

s leaders, you, too, hold in your hands the seeds of failure or the potential for success. People look to you for guidance and wisdom. Your impact is felt at every turn, and your advice, like that of the old man in the story, is sought by all who find themselves under your leadership. What will history say about you? Will it chronicle your efforts to provide leadership and support for others? Will it recount the growth you provided to your Minnesota school community? Will your record of success building young people, rather than the number of games your school teams won or lost, be the

standard by which those whom you serve will be judged? The mantle of leadership is a heavy one, and not everyone who picks it up will be successful. As a leader, you are called to guide your school, your team, or your community away from potentially dangerous decisions; to develop policies that may be unpopular but which support the mission of your school, community or activities program; to develop strategies that enable your teammates to find success; and to stand alone when the world around you may seem to be coming apart. Our challenge as leaders is to demonstrate a vision that extends beyond

Winter 2015 Bulletin

the immediate issues placed before us. We must be open enough to accept the challenge and skilled enough to differentiate between truth and trickery. We must know when to defend an ideal and support a dream. Dan Rather said that a dream begins with an administrator, teacher, coach, or activity director “…who believes…who tugs and pushes and leads…to the next plateau, sometimes poking…with a sharp stick called ‘truth’.” Is that you? Have you chosen to put on the mantle of leadership? I don’t know the source of the following wishes, but I trust you’ll find them to be more than philosophical. Some

of you may already have faced both success and failure. And only those who are truly committed to affirming their leadership abilities have empowered others to join you to best meet the needs of those whom you serve. ● “I wish you could know how it feels to run with all your heart and lose…horribly.” ● “I wish you could achieve some great good for mankind, but have nobody know about it except you.” ● I wish you could find something so worthwhile that you deem it worthy of investing your life.” ● “I hope you make a stupid mistake and get caught red-handed and are big enough to say, ‘I’m sorry. I was wrong.’” ● “I wish for you a magnificent obsession that will give you reason for living and purpose and direction, and life.” But most of all, I wish for you the experience of leadership; the challenge to reach out to those who may have seemed to be unreachable; and the willingness to invest yourself in the lives of others.

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Fun—it’s why they play By Jody Redman Associate Director

News and Features

being a fulfilled human being. The ability to play is critical not only to being happy, but also to sustaining social relationships and being a creative, innovative person.” If we want to keep kids participating in programs that will connect them to one another and their school community, and develop skills that will sustain them beyond high school and a game, we must keep them coming

back. We must connect with them through play. “Play energizes us and enlivens us. It eases our burdens. It renews our natural sense of optimism and opens us up to new possibilities.” That is according to psychiatrist Dr. Stuart Brown. Be intentional about incorporating FUN into your practice every day. Fun doesn’t mean puppies and bunnies, it means engaging your

students in activities they enjoy. Ask your students to assist you in putting together the team’s Top 10 Fun Games or Drills and then be sure to include them in your practice plan. When your students begin to lose focus, and you get frustrated, turn to fun—take 10 minutes to re-engage them through PLAY. Follow the Why We Play movement on Twitter: @MSHSL_Coaches. Minnesota Prep Photo / www.MNPrepPhoto.com

laying high school sports has the potential to provide students with meaningful and growth-filled experiences. Through play, students are deeply connected to their peer group, to caring adults and to their school community. As educators, we want students to be a part of these important developmental experiences that teach them valuable life lessons. For growth-filled experiences to occur, coaches must be aware of their greater purpose and must be intentional about providing students with experiences that keep them engaged and coming back. Unfortunately, by the age of 13, more than 70 percent of

students who participate in youth sports quit. In a recent study the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University found that the number one reason why kids quit is because it’s no longer fun. When we talk about sports, we typically use the word PLAY to define the experience. We PLAY sports. Play has a natural attraction. It’s fun. When we lose sight of this and view sports as WORK, we lose kids. We have to be intentional about and focus on why kids show up in the first place—because it’s fun. Paul Wagner, the author of Play says, “Remembering what play is all about and making it a part of our daily lives are probably the most important factors in

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Winter 2015 Bulletin

If we want to keep kids participating in programs that will connect them to one another and their school community, and develop skills that will sustain them beyond high school and a game, we must keep them coming back. We must connect with them through play.

Outdoor football presented extra challenges, required extra effort News and Features

By Kevin Merkle Associate Director (Special thanks to Osseo, Hopkins, Eden Prairie, Prior Lake, and SCSU)

Special recognition and kudos to Ray Kirch at Osseo; Dan Johnson at Hopkins; Mike Grant at Eden Prairie; Eric Rodine at Prior Lake (the schoolsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; activities administrators) and Ron Seibring at St. Cloud State University (director of

intramural and rec sports). That special recognition extends to their assistants, their maintenance staff, game workers and others who were involved in making sure that these events took place. In addition, each location demonstrated

nothing short of a tremendous attitude as they worked through their special challenges. Osseo had perhaps the biggest challenge because the site had the most snow and the first See Football on Page 5

Photos courtesy Ray Kirch / Osseo High School

Hosting a game after your season is over and your team is not playing takes a special effort in any circumstance. Keeping the facility open, maintained and available; scheduling workers; and making the many special arrangements to accommodate the participating teams and their fans is challenging, to say the least. With the conditions this year, those challenges were even greater.

or several years we have been aware of the need to play the state football tournament semifinal games and Prep Bowl outdoors while the new stadium is under construction. We knew that it could be quite cold, and we knew that snow would be a possible, but historically, playing football outdoors in November can be done without special effort. Obviously, that was not the case in

2014. The media, especially in the Twin Cities metro area, made a bigger deal out of this than was necessary, but neverthe-less, there certainly were special challenges. Hosting a game after your season is over and your team is not playing takes a special effort in any circumstance. Keeping the facility open, maintained and available; scheduling workers; and making the many special arrangements to accommodate the participating teams and their fans is challenging, to say the least. With the conditions this year, those challenges were even greater.

Bob Anderson spent countless hours on a tractor clearing and grooming the field at Osseo High School.

Winter 2015 Bulletin

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Minnesota Prep Photo / www.MNPrepPhoto.com

Players, coaches, ADs and fans had many positive comments about their experience at TCF Bank Stadium. While attendance declined significantly, there were great games in a great atmosphere.

Football............................................................. continued from Page 4 game. Kirch and school staff worked throughout the week to make sure their facility was ready, and by Thursday evening the field was in great condition. The complication of hosting a large youth basketball tournament and finding locker room space for four teams on Saturday just added to the challenges. When someone asked him why go through all of this effort when Osseo wasn’t even playing, Kirch responded, “Because that’s what we would expect if another school was hosting our team.” I’d like to offer special recognition to Bob Anderson, who spent countless hours on a tractor clearing and grooming the field— always with a smile on his face. At Hopkins, the district contracts for snow removal, which meant there was limited equipment and personnel. Eden www.MSHSL.org

Osseo Activities Director Ray Kirch wielded a snow shovel in a team effort to make the football field ready. By game time, if you ignored the snow piles around the field you would be hard pressed to realize that just days before it was covered by 6-to-8 inches of snow. Prairie came to the rescue. Eden Prairie personnel hauled their equipment to Hopkins and cleared their field. Other than a light standard going out the night before the first game (creating the need for emergency repairs); a water pipe in the concession stand that burst; having to use brooms to sweep the snow off the lines by hand during the two games on Saturday; and having to work around the school musical . . . there was nothing to it. Add in that Hopkins

graciously agreed to host an additional game on Wednesday, just three days prior to that game being played on Saturday. As mentioned, the Eden Prairie staff cleared two fields, had to keep the lines on their field cleared for three games on Saturday, and had to deal with heavy demand from media and limited press box space. They also had multiple events going on at their facility, creating additional challenges when hosting six football teams. This was the only site to host three

games in one day, making for a long day for all involved. At Prior Lake—a “walk in the park.” I found out on Tuesday that they had installed artificial turf this summer, and by noon on Wednesday they agreed to host two games that Saturday. Hats off to Rodine and his staff for the quick turnaround, and being able to pull this off without a hitch. Prior Lake, too, had many other events at the school. When I questioned him as to whether or not he could make this

Winter 2015 Bulletin

happen, Rodine never hesitated, commenting, “Helping others out; that’s what we do.” St. Cloud State continues to be a great site for us to host games. In addition to the three semifinal games, SCSU hosted four quarterfinal games. Every year we have been able to host multiple games at this great facility. Seibring and his staff are very accommodating. Clearing the field, grandstand and surrounding areas was never a concern or a problem, and like the other sites, the field was in great playing condition by the time that the games were played. I’d be remiss if I didn’t also thank the coaches and ADs at the schools participating in the semifinals. All 28 schools were extremely cooperative, as they

News and Features

Other than a light standard going out the night before the first game (creating the need for emergency repairs); a water pipe in the concession stand that burst; having to use brooms to sweep the snow off the lines by hand during the two games on Saturday; and having to work around the school musical . . . there was nothing to it.

See Football on Page 7 5

Doing the right thing is seldom easy

A cross country course has many turns and obstacles. When runners toe the line, the goal is to compete to the best of one’s ability. Start fast, navigate the terrain and turns, pace yourself, and finish strong is the race plan. That plan changed for two Class A runners who displayed an unselfish act of sportsmanship when they helped a struggling runner finish the 2014 state meet race.

By Lisa Lissimore Associate Director

cross country course has many turns and obstacles. When runners toe the line, the goal is to compete to the best of one’s ability. Start fast, navigate the terrain and turns, pace yourself, and finish strong is the race plan. That plan changed for two Class A runners who displayed an unselfish act of sportsmanship when they helped a struggling runner finish the 2014 state meet race. Esko senior Kailee Kiminski and Waterville-ElysianMorristown/ Janesville-Waldorf-

Pemberton junior Tierney Winter stopped running when they saw Jackson County Central ninthgrader Jessica Christoffer on the ground less than 100 yards from the finish line. Both runners grabbed Christoffer and helped her up. They then locked their arms around her and finished the race together. All of the runners — Kiminski, Winter and Christoffer — knew that they were violating race rules and that they would be disqualified. The National Federation cross country rules prohibits competitors from assisting other runners. The

Minnesota State High School League and its member schools follow National Federation rules. The specific rule states that it is an unfair act when a competitor receives assistance.

By Dan Dornfeld and Greg Utecht

See Easy on Page 7

Waterville-Elysian-Morristown/Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton junior Tierney Winter (left) and Esko senior Kailee Kiminski (right) assisted Jackson County Central ninth-grader Jessica Christoffer (center) across the finish line. 6

Officials diligently work to have runners finish under their own power

Minnesota Prep Photo / www.MNPrepPhoto.com

News and Features

Winter 2015 Bulletin

Editor’s Note: The disqualification of three cross country runners raises new questions about how meet officials handle situations that involve athletes who assist other runners. It’s an issue that the National Federation Track and Field and Cross Country Rules Committee will address when it meets in June. Here, the 2014 state meet referee and starter offer their insight about aiding a runner. It has been common in recent years that state championship meets will have runners that are in distress, particularly near the finish area. Officials are welleducated on the rules about aiding a runner and are reminded about protocols prior to each meet. Part of this protocol is to guarantee that a runner should not be moved without medical assistance, is not moved by the officials, teammates and other competitors, coaches and spectators. To honor the rule during a race, if a runner begins to show physical stress, the official will: ● Watch the individual and offer aid without having contact. ● Ask the runner if s/he needs assistance, as well as restricting others from having direct contact with the athlete. ● Notify the medical team at the finish line of a runner that might be at risk. Officials diligently work to have runners finish under their own power while making sure they can bring help immediately if needed or desired by the runner. See Finish on Page 7

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Football............................................................. continued from Page 5 had to go through part of the week not knowing when and where they would play. Also, special thanks to ADs Troy Stein at Edina and Jaime Sherwood at Wayzata, who had made plans to host games and were very understanding and cooperative when games they were to host were moved in an effort to play at fewer sites and sites where snow removal was minimal.

With all of these challenges, I am extremely grateful for the efforts and attitudes demonstrated by all involved at the host sites. I’m also grateful that the snow came early in the week and was less than predicted. We were also fortunate in having the games on some of the best days during that stretch of bad weather. While conditions weren’t

good, they could have been much worse. Overall, we were fortunate that everything worked out as well as it did. The other positive was TCF Bank Stadium at the University of Minnesota. Players, coaches, ADs and fans had many positive comments about their experience. While attendance declined significantly, there were great games in

a great atmosphere. The U of M staff was very accommodating, and stadium facilities—locker rooms, press box, heated benches, heated field and tremendous scoreboard, all added to the experience. There were even multiple comments made that we should continue to play there in the future, even after the new stadium is built. One year down,

one year to go, as we look forward to moving into the new stadium in 2016. Let’s hope for improved conditions in 2015, but with the great attitudes and cooperation displayed by our member schools and their staffs, I’m confident that we will be successful in hosting another great round of playoffs, even if the weather does not cooperate.

Easy .................................................................. continued from Page 6 Assistance includes: a. Interference with another competitor. b. Pacing by a teammate not in the race or persons not participating in the event. c. Competitors joining or grasping hands with each other during a race. d. Competitor using an aid during the race. “Cross country

Finish .... cont. from Page 6 Dornfeld and Utecht have been registered cross country and track and field officials with the Minnesota State High School League for nearly four decades. Dornfeld is the chief rules interpreter and head of officials for cross country and track and field for the League. They are also co-executive secretaries of the Metro East Conference in suburban St. Paul. www.MSHSL.org

coaches are aware that athletes cannot assist or interfere with another runner,” said Dan Dornfeld, the Minnesota State High School League Cross Country Rules Interpreter. “This is a long-standing rule that’s based on fairness and the belief that each competitor must complete the course on their own.” The decision to

disqualify the runners did not come easy for race officials. In fact, a course official walked along side Christoffer to: 1) call for help if she requested; and 2) to verbally keep other runners from assisting Christoffer — allowing her to finish the race on her own. Winter and Kiminski acted with good intentions despite the verbal

warning. “This type of preventative officiating is to be commended,” Dornfeld added. “Our first priority as race officials is to ensure a fair and safe race for all runners. The contest rules must be applied at all times. Officials cannot selectively apply rules. Such actions would jeopardize the integrity of the meet.”

The greatest cross country champions! The following Letter to the Editor of Lake Region Life, Waterville, was shared with the League. Winning isn’t everything, as demonstrated by Tierney Winter from WEM-JWP and Kailee Kiminski from Esko at the state cross country meet. It was the most touching good sportsmanship we have ever personally witnessed. Both girls are truly cross country champions. Our freshmen daughter Jessica was excited to run at state cross country for the first time. Her legs gave out on her; she collapsed as the finish line was in sight, but got up with the help of Tierney and Kailee, who helped her cross the finish line. This ultimate act of sportsmanship and kindness disqualified these two Good Samaritans and Jessica. Our family is sorry that you were disqualified for assisting, but we wanted you to receive the recognition you truly deserve. Thanks to your family, school and community for raising such outstanding student-athletes. You should be proud of them. We sure are! It still brings tears to our eyes! Thanks again for demonstrating care and compassion on the course! Champions are not always measured by medals, but by character. Dean and Andrea Christoffer Round Lake Winter 2015 Bulletin

The League received its share of public criticism for disqualifying the runners. And it’s easy to understand why. Those of us who are in charge of athletic programs strive to produce student leaders like Kiminski and Winter who are willing to stand up for what they believe is right. Because of their unselfishness, the League will nominate both runners for the Spirit of Sport Award, which is presented annually by the National Federation of State High School Associations. In the book “Inside Out Coaching”, author Joe Ehrmann writes that part of the responsibility of coaching is that you give your players memories, for better or for worse, that stay with them until the day they die. Jessica Christoffer, Tierney Winter and Kailee Kiminski will always remember the events that took place on Saturday, Nov. 7, 2014. For these events will forever remind us all of the life lessons young people learn from education-based activities.

News and Features

“Our first priority as race officials is to ensure a fair and safe race for all runners. The contest rules must be applied at all times. Officials cannot selectively apply rules. Such actions would jeopardize the integrity of the meet.”

FOOTBALL Fall 2014 Athletic Activities

GIRLS’ VOLLEYBALL (Clockwise from top): Mankato West played the finale of Prep Bowl XXXIII, the first played outdoors, and won the Class AAAAA title with a 42-19 victory over Simley. Senior quarterback Ryan Schlichte (2) ran for one touchdown and threw for two more. Top seeded Stewartville blocked threetime defending Class AA champion Marshall from making it four straight, but needed five sets to win the match and the fourth title for the Tigers. Emily Donnay was all alone as she ascended the final hill of the Class A girls’ cross country race. The Eden Valley-Watkins/Kimball Area senior’s time was 22.5 seconds faster than the runner-up.

CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING 8

Winter 2015 Bulletin

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GIRLS’ SWIMMING

AND

Fall 2014 Athletic Activities

DIVING

GIRLS’ TENNIS

ADAPTED SOCCER

(Clockwise from top): Albert Lea junior Lindsey Horejsi set an All-Time and Class A record in the 100-yard breaststroke. Ninth-grade forward Bryce Smith scored twice, including the game-winner in overtime, to lead the South Washington County Thunderbolts to the CI Division adapted soccer title. Junior midfielder Leighton Lommel (10) scored the only goal to lead the St. Cloud Apollo Eagles to their first title in Class A boys’ soccer. Top-seeded Edina senior Caitlyn Merzbacher successfully defended her Class AA singles title and contributed to her team’s 18th consecutive title, a national record. www.MSHSL.org

SOCCER Winter 2015 Bulletin

29TH ANNUAL NATIONAL GIRLS AND WOMEN IN SPORTS DAY FEBRUARY 4, 2015 SPONSORED BY, THE MINNESOTA COALITION OF WOMEN IN ATHLETIC LEADERSHIP National Girls and Women in Sports Day, ĐƌĞĂƚĞĚ ďǇ ƚŚĞ tŽŵĞŶ͛Ɛ ^ƉŽƌƚƐ &ŽƵŶĚĂƚŝŽŶ in 1987, shines a light on the accomplishments of women and girls in sports. It is a day to nationally recognize the community and personal impacts of Title IX legislation. Each year celebrates and commemorates girls and women who participate in sports, encourages increased participation, and honors our athletic leaders. The Minnesota Coalition of Women in Athletic Leadership invites you join the statewide celebration of National Girls and Women in Sports Day! Nominate an individual or an organization in your Minnesota community to be honored for their positive impact on girls/women sports programs with the Breaking Barriers Award. This award celebrates individuals or organizations that have broken barriers, overcome challenges and/or strive to provide athletic opportunities for girls and women of all races, all ages, and all levels of ability. To nominate someone in your community, go to ngwsd-mn.com to fill out the Breaking Barriers online nomination form. Nominations are by December 1, 2014. Celebrate National Girls and Women in Sports Day at the Minnesota History Center, Wednesday, February 4, 2015 from 12-1 p.m. All NGWSD Award winners, including the Breaking Barriers winners will be honored at this event. The Minnesota Coalition of Women in Athletic Leadership thanks you for your ongoing support of National Girls and Women in Sports Day. MINNESOTA NGWSD CELEBRATION

RECOGNIZE LOCAL FEMALE SPORTS TEAMS

Wednesday, February 4, 2015, 12-1 p.m. Join us at the Minnesota History Center for the National Girls and Women in Sports Day celebration and help honor this year͛s NGWSD award winners.

Cheer on our local female athletes! Look up local games times in your community paper, on one of your local college websites or attend a professional game. www.miacacthletics.com www.umacathletics.com www.mnlynx.com www.gophersports.com www.mshsl.org

BREAKING BARRIERS AWARDS Nominate an individual of organization in your Minnesota community to be honored for their positive impact on girls/women sports programs. A limited number of recipients will be selected each year.

WRITE TO YOUR ELECTED OFFICIALS Tell your local, state, and national officials that equal access is important to you. Tell them what sports have meant to you and the girls/women in your life and ask them to protect Title IX legislation. Support a girl in letting her voice be heard too!

SUPPORT EMERGING ATHLETES Share your skills and passions with girls in your community. Coach a team, run a clinic, or just play sports with the girls in your neighborhood.

Sports Medicine Advisory Committee initiatives under way By Craig Perry Associate Director

he Minnesota State High School League’s Sports Medicine Advisory committee’s work impacts nearly every activity that member schools sponsor. Committee members constantly monitor emerging health and safety issues. Here is a brief look at some of the issues that the committee is addressing. ePPE physical and health history questionnaires It is an exciting time for the interscholastic sports environment as we continue to grow and adapt in a digital world. With a recommendation from the League Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, the League Board of Directors has selected PrivIT, a Columbus, Ohiobased company that provides an online solution called Privit Profile for the management and collection of physical and health history forms required for participation in high school sports. About 40 member schools began this initial implementation with the start of the winter sports season. All member schools are encouraged to become part of this implementation. Each school will have its own school

specific link to the documents. Students and parents will login to the site and complete the ePPE. The designated school administrator can login to the password-protected school site to view and confirm the completion status of student-athletes. After logging in, school administrators will be directed to change the temporary password to a password of their choosing, and then navigate to the school’s home page. From there, school administrators will be able to manage school information, teams, and authorized users. With this new process, school administrators will no longer need to distribute and collect the pre-participation physical and health history forms. With PrivIT, there are multiple resources to help school administrators familiarize themselves with PrivIT Profile, and to assist in educating other school staff. This includes WebEx training sessions designed to provide step-by-step implementation instructions, the Administrator Reference Guide, and “How To Guides” for administrators, coaches, athletic trainers, and parents/athletes.

Additionally, the PrivIT Help Center provides Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), Video Tutorials, Release Notes, and information for contacting support. Dr. Bill Roberts, Chair of the MSHSL Sports Medicine Advisory Committee has provided additional information regarding the PrivIT ePPE on Page 11. Now that the initial trial is under way, additional member schools will be invited to participate in this program. If you are interested in accessing this online process, please email me and we can begin the setup process for your school.

primarily with wrestling programs, but it will also cover other skin issues like MRSA that can impact all athletic programs. The completed module will be available on the League website and it is also hoped that a downloadable app will be available.

Skin infections education module Dr. BJ Anderson, a Sports Medicine Advisory Committtee member, is working with the League to develop a skin infections education module to be used

Practice length and work-to-rest recommendations Sports Medicine Advisory Committee Member Dr. David Bacharach is leading the committee in the development of an education module that will address

proper practice length and the optimal rest between activity necessary to ensure the physical and mental health and safety of athletic program participants can be maintained. This module will also look at the impact weather and the seasons can have on student performance and recovery.

Asthma and the athlete module Currently under development, this module should be available in late spring. The education module will provide general information as well as standards of care needed for those students who have asthma episodes while participating with their athletic programs

The world of sports and sports medicine is an exciting area in which to work. The League and its Sports Medicine Advisory Committee will continue to bring inspired people together to provide member schools with cutting edge solutions and health and safety education to best serve your school community needs. We appreciate your support and leadership at your high school as we work together to improve the health and safety of student-athletes.

Athletic Activities

The League and its Sports Medicine Advisory Committee will continue to bring inspired people together to provide member schools with cutting edge solutions and health and safety education to best serve your school community needs.

B www.MSHSL.org

Winter 2015 Bulletin

Athletic Activities

The benefits of implementing the ePPE for preparticipation exams By William O. Roberts M.D., M.S.

The ePPE should improve the quality and accuracy of the PPE exam as it will go beyond the simple yes-or-no answers to the questions on paper by using the branch chain questions to dig deeper into the yes answers. This is especially important for new physicians, nonsports medicine trained physicians, and mid-level providers.

he Minnesota State High School League has had a preparticipation evaluation (PPE) form since the late 1980s and has been a leader in the area of preparticipation evaluation. The ePPE is the next step forward for our athlete evaluation program to promote safe participation, to learn more about the exam questions, to understand the preexisting conditions of our athletes, and to study the outcomes of participation. ePPE History The ePPE was developed in the early 2000s by Drs. Gordon Mattheson and Winne Meeuessee, both M.D.s-Ph.D.s with a Revised

long-time interest in preparticipation evaluations. The program uses branched chain technology to expand the initial PPE questionnaire by digging deeper with each question that is answered with a response that requires additional information. When the ePPE became a part of Privit, the required HIPAA compliance and security protection for the student-athlete information, which is essential to its design and use, made the ePPE more functional and acceptable for high schools. It has been in use for over a decade at Stanford University (Palo Alto, CA) in the United States and at the University of Calgary in Alberta, Canada. The ePPE data is

12/04/13

securely stored in a de-identified form and can be accessed by research teams to evaluate components of the exam. Benefits for the Athlete The ePPE should improve the quality and accuracy of the PPE exam as it will go beyond the simple yes-or-no answers to the questions on paper by using the branch chain questions to dig deeper into the yes answers. This is

2014-2 015 SP ORTS QUA Minneso LIFYING PHY ______ SIC ta State ______ FollowHigh Sch AL EXAMIN ______ Up ATION __ 1. Do yo Questions ool Leag __ __ About ______ FORM ue More Se 2. Do yo u feel stresse ____ d ns Studen t Name:

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Date: __ ______ ______ ___

Winter 2015 Bulletin

especially important for new physicians, non-sports medicine trained physicians, and mid-level providers. It requires a parent to sign off on the form, helping ensure the entire pertinent history is available to the examining provider. Prompts can be built into the program for follow up or additional testing (e.g.; consider ECG or consider glut strengthening and balance training) that may benefit the athlete’s health and reduce injury risk. The ePPE can be used to distribute and document athlete education for concussion and other important topics that affect health and safety. The program can also track participation in those education sessions. The ePPE has the potential to improve team care and make medical information available to the onsite medical team, event physicians, athletic trainers, and ER physicians in emergency situations, improving medical care for the athletes. The access can be graduated and available on a needto-know basis so physicians would see the full record while

other providers would only have access necessary for their level of training and licensure. Once the initial form is completed, there will be a permanent retrievable record for the athlete. It will just need to be updated for changes in health. Benefits for Research and Education ePPE has a research component that will provide for evaluating the questions and revising them to better detect problems or to be more easily understood. This has great potential to improve the exam, as the questions have not been systematically evaluated in the past. The ePPE has the potential to track injury and relate it to a specific and accurate denominator that can guide policy and improve risk and safety profiles for athletes. For example, lowincidence problems like cardiac arrest or neck fracture could be fed back into the See ePPE on Page 13 www.MSHSL.org

Football safety policy revisions possible By Kevin Merkle Associate Director

eague staff, in cooperation with the Minnesota Football Coaches Association, continues to work on polices to minimize risk in football and other sports. Last spring the League Representative Assembly approved a bylaw amendment that puts restrictions on what football coaches can do with their athletes during the summer waiver period, beginning in the summer of 2015. That policy requires acclimatization to heat and equipment and puts limits on the number of practices with contact. Since then, new information has been received from the National Federation as well as other sources. With this additional information and more input from the coaches

association, revisions are being proposed. Highlights of the possible revisions: 1) Definitions of six levels of contact based on recommendations from USA Football: “Air, Bags, Control, Restricted, Thud, and Live Action.” 2) Limitation of 11 days of practice during the summer waiver period, four of which can be contact

practices (Thud or Live Action). 3) Limitations on the length of practices and the number of practices in one day. 4) Limitations on what can be done during summer camps. A second bylaw amendment pertaining to the Pre-season Acclimatization

Period in August was also proposed last spring. It was not passed by the Representative Assembly, but a new version will be presented to the League Board of Directors at its February meeting, with the intent the Board will move it on to the Representative Assembly for consideration in March. Highlights of this

National Federation announces football safety recommendations

he National Federation of State High School Association held a Concussion Summit this past July and recently released the recommendations from that Task Force. Those that met included experts in sports-related concussions, including top doctors and sports medicine experts, trainers, coaches, representatives from the National Football Rules Committee, the NFHS, and the NIAAA. While the Minnesota State High School League has been “ahead of the curve” in the implementation of some of these recommendations, others are still in progress. These recommendations are forming a foundation for the policies that are being developed to minimize risk in football and other sports. All activities administrators and coaches are encouraged to review these recommendations. There is a link to this information on the home page of the League website under League News—NFHS Guidelines-Head Impact & Concussion.

policy include the following: 1) Limitations on the length of practices and a required recovery period between practices. 2) Definitions of a contact practice (same as above). 3) Two practices allowed in one day with a proper recovery period. 4) If there are two practices in one day there can only be one practice the next day. 5) Limitations on the amount of contact in a practice and the number of contact sessions per week during the pre-season and during the regular season. The Football Advisory Committee met in December to further review and refine this proposal. More specific information will be sent to schools in December or early January.

ePPE ................................................................ continued from Page 12 system and give a more precise rate than we currently have available for our overall athlete population, or in specific sports like boys’ basketball or hockey. Likewise, more frequently occurring injuries like ACL disruption of the knee or brain concussion could be tracked to help with injury prevention policies and rule changes. The ePPE data can highlight areas of concern that may alter what we teach athletes, coaches, and parents. Benefits for Activities Administrators The ePPE process should save time for ADs as the ePPE www.MSHSL.org

program will build the roster for the school and record the essential emergency contact data for each athlete along with addresses and emails. The ePPE program tracks completion of the form by the athlete and clearance by the physician – also saving time for the AD. Updates to participation clearance can be transmitted electronically to rescind or modify medical eligibility for each athlete. The ePPE provides a documentation trail that may improve the defensibility of claims against the League and the school. This chain of

documentation may improve insurance rates and reduce costs to the schools and to the League. Summary The ePPE should be a time-saver for all involved— athletes, parents, ADs and staff—once the initial questionnaire is completed and saved. The ePPE has the potential to improve the quality of the exam on an individual and statewide basis, and it will give the League and the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee real data to help with safety and policy decision-making. The data that we can obtain from the ePPE process can help

shape our education program for athletes, parents and coaches, and the ePPE will rapidly become the “State Standard” for delivery of improved athlete care. Disclosure I am the chair of the PrivIT ePPE Science Advisory Board. It is a volunteer position and I have no financial interest in the product. I do, however, have a strong interest in its potential to improve the exam process and outcomes. The League Board of Directors in October approved a trial period during the winter activity season during which

Winter 2015 Bulletin

80-100 member schools will implement preparticipation physical examinations using the secure electronic system developed and managed by PrivIT. The system will not cost the League or member schools anything. Additional features advantageous to activities administrators will also be explored.

Athletic Activities

A second bylaw amendment pertaining to the Pre-season Acclimatization Period in August was also proposed last spring. It was not passed by the Representative Assembly, but a new version will be presented to the League Board of Directors at its February meeting, with the intent the Board will move it on to the Representative Assembly for consideration in March.

William O. Roberts, M.D., M.S., is a professor of Family Medicine and Community Health, Division of Sports Medicine, University of Minnesota Medical School, and also is chair of the League’s Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 13

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BOLD lauded for sportsmanship The following e-mail was shared with the League by BOLD Activities Director Melissa Sagedahl.

Great spontaneous sports moment The following note and accompanying photograph were sent to Executive Director Dave Stead, Media Specialist John Millea and Richfield Activities Director Todd Olson. Dave, John and Todd, I just returned from a spirited and very competitive MSHSL volleyball match (Oct. 7, 2014) between Richfield High School and Academy of Holy Angels. Both student sections were packed and the students enjoyed cheering for their teams and cheering back and forth with one another in a good-natured fashion. After several close sets, Academy of Holy Angels pulled out a victory in the fourth set. Each team lined up to shake one another’s hands and as they did so, each student section followed suit and took the floor to go through a long line to do the same with one another. It was a very spontaneous event that occurred quickly, but seeing the smiles on the kids faces as they went through and wished each other well at the end of a very good match will leave a lasting impression as to all that is good with high school sports. Just wanted to share this great MSHSL moment!

Officials

Melissa and Jean (Herdina, Sagedahl’s administrative assistant): Good morning. Congratulations on your big football win last Saturday in Eden Prairie over Caledonia. Your players, your coaches, and your fans are perfect examples of what sportsmanship and leadership are all about. I was the referee (white hat) at your game last Saturday, and my officiating crew was selected by the League to officiate your game. We were honored and looked forward to the game, and we had a great experience as well. We were so impressed with what we saw on the field and on the sidelines in regards to behavior, competitiveness, and sportsmanship. Hats off to BOLD. Best of luck this weekend in the championship game. Please share this email with your coaching staff as well. Thank you. And, again – congratulations on making it to the state championship game. Well done! Tim Litfin Registered Official

Michael Kautzman Activities Director, Academy of Holy Angels

Appreciation for hosting winter sports training clinics The League thanks the following schools and their athletic administrator for assisting the League by hosting winter sport training clinics for officials: ● St. Paul Highland Park High School – Nancy Gallivan ● Edina High School – Troy Stein ● Hermantown High School – Beth Clark ● Marshall High School – Bruce Remme ● Roseville High School – Jeff Whisler ● St. James High School – Les Zellman ● Farmington High School – Bill Tschida ● National Sports Center, Mankato Arena and Carlton Arena for hosting hockey clinics Providing the use of their facilities enabled us to train nearly 700 officials prior to the winter sports seasons in basketball, girls’ gymnastics, hockey and wrestling. We appreciate the extra efforts from you to allow us to hold a clinic at your facility. Training clinics improve the skills of our officials which leads to better events for participants, coaches and fans. www.MSHSL.org

Winter 2015 Bulletin

Be part of education that shapes today’s young athletes. Get into the game as an official to teach good sportsmanship, fairness, equity, and how to play by the rules. The need is great. The time is now. Become a Minnesota State High School League official. QUALIFICATIONS

• A high school graduate or 18 years of age. • A thorough understanding of the sport you wish to officiate. • The ability to interpret and apply rules. • Poise, courage, and strong communication skills.

BENEFITS

For more information: www.mshsl.org click on

• Staying involved in your favorite sports. • Opportunities to meet and work with students and others • • • •

who share your interest in sports. Staying physically fit. Earning extra income. Giving back and paying it forward. Provide students with lessons for a lifetime.

Become an Official

Summary of the Minutes of the August 5, 2014, Board of Directors Meeting Reflection, Pledge of Allegiance Board Actions 1. Approved the agenda. 2. Approved the minutes of the June 2, 2014 Board of Directors meeting. 3. There were no individuals or delegations who had asked to speak to the Board regarding items on the published agenda. 4. Received lobbyist’s report including it is an election year and that Board members would be able to make campaign donations should they choose to do so. A number of issues had been reported to legislators in support of the High School League as a student organization. The work done by the League’s member schools in support of the student athletes and fine arts participants is appreciated. 5. Received legal counsel’s report including no pending litigation. 6. Received Board of Directors Reports and Comments including Positive comments regarding the National Federation Summer Meeting in Boston affirming that communications from the Board of Directors Round Table Session indicated that Minnesota does things right and that a number of people from other states asked what Minnesota has already done. The Board Members felt proud of the work of our Minnesota schools as well as the positive comments made about League staff. The July 28th Why We Play Conference was put on by the High School League and organized by Jody Redman. Positive comments to the League staff for the Workshop format and materials. 7. Received Executive Directors report including the League office is ready for the 2014-2015 school year. A new Board Member Orientation, Rules Clinicians Meetings, and updates have been held. The staff has reviewed information from the NFHS Summer Meeting and is ready for the upcoming school year. Jody Redman attended an Uncommon Coaches’ Clinic in Denver, CO and presented the Why We Play workshop materials. Positive comments were made by Board Members about the various workshops and heard reports from staff members about their various activities during the summer as well as plans for the upcoming school year. Dave Stead indicated that is why Board Members can be proud of the League staff. 8. Received Executive Committee report including: ● Monticello requested that they be allowed to participate in Class A boys’ hockey as compared to Class AA where their co-op numbers placed them. The request had been denied, but Monticello could certainly make that appeal again prior to the next placement cycle; and ● The Executive Committee reviewed the request from Mayer Lutheran, Holy Trinity, and Lester Prairie regarding their District football placement. The Committee was not in favor of approving any appeals and that the two-year cycle would be reviewed prior to placements for the next cycle.

www.MSHSL.org

9. Denied request for Monticello to participate in Class A boys’ hockey as compared to Class AA for the 20142015 school year. 10. Approved the resolution in appreciation and recognition for service and dedication for Board of Directors members whose terms had been completed. 11. Approved the 2013-2014 expense reimbursement dollar amounts to member schools. 12. Approved the renewal of membership of schools already submitting information to the High School League and that staff will approve future membership renewals that have been submitted following the Board of Directors meeting 13. Approved the following publications: Official Handbook, Board Policy Manual and Guidelines, Region Secretaries Manual, Officials Policy Manual, and Employee Handbook. 14. Approved the IEP/504 Plan. Roger Aronson thoroughly explained the legislative process as well as the meeting held in the League office with numerous special education groups and others regarding students with an IEP. The legislation requiring the Board of Directors to develop a policy is effective upon Board of Directors action. 15. Approved the minutes from the August 5, 2014 Eligibility Committee meeting as presented. 16. Approved May and June financial statements as presented. 17. Approved the insurance increases and policies for the High School League. Discussion Items A. Board of Directors Goals for 2014-15 will be presented at the October Workshop B. Discussion from the Marketing Committee included: ● The student comments section gathered by Listening to Students and discussed by Amy Doherty; ● Lisa Lissimore‘s internal communications as well as a booth at the State Fair; and ● Bids for tournament programs and additional publications information that will be developed during the school year. C. Technology/Coaches and Officials Education information was supported by the CER Policy and Why We Play; the ADs connection to the High School League and the involvement in the Why We Play curriculum; the number of people who have taken the course; and the applicability of the information for Why We Play is well done and much appreciated. Information Item Scott McCready discussed the Board Meeting schedule for 2014-2015, and reminded Committee members there would be a Board Workshop beginning at 3:00 p.m. on October 1, 2014 with the Executive Committee meeting immediately following the workshop at 5:00 p.m.

Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

The complete official Minutes may be obtained from the League office by the designated schools representative of member schools.

Winter 2015 Bulletin

Summary of the Minutes of the October 2, 2014, Board of Directors Meeting Board of Directors Meeting Minutes

Reflection, Pledge of Allegiance Board Actions 1. Approved the agenda with the following changes: move Action Item 9B, Transgender Policy, to Action Item 9A; and move Discussion Item 10B, MSHSL Staffing, to Action Item 9E. 2. Approved the minutes of the August 5, 2014 Board of Directors meeting. 3. Several individuals were present to speak or to observe discussion regarding Action Item 9A – Transgender Policy 4. Received lobbyist’s report including an update on the Health Insurance Transparency Act (HITA) and how it affects school districts; and the upcoming election. 5. Received legal counsel’s report including no pending litigation. 6. Executive Director’s report received including: ● Board of Directors goals for 2014 2015; ● 100 Years of Memories starting in the fall of 2015 and concluding during the 2016 State Girls’ Basketball Tournament; ● New AD Workshop was held in September; and ● Fall Area Meetings have concluded. 7. Approved the MSHSL submitting a request to the NFHS to conduct a baseball experiment allowing pitchers to be designated hitters. 8. Approved the following ticket pricing for football post season play: ● Quarterfinal tickets: $9/adult and $6/student (increased from $8/adult and $5/student); ● Semifinal tickets: $10/adult and $7/students (decreased from $12/adult and $8/student); and ● Prep Bowl (final) tickets: $13/adult and $9/student (increased from $12/adult and $8/student). 9. Approved accepting the low bid from Trophies Plus, for the 100 Years of Memories medals, pending the development and approval of a sample medal before the bid will be fully accepted.

Winter 2015 Bulletin

10. Tabled action of the Transgender Policy to the December 4, 2014 Board of Directors meeting. 11. Approved staff appointing a committee to review the revised DRAFT Transgender Policy and request feedback from stakeholders. The Committee would meet prior to November 1, 2014 and forward feedback to the full Board for review by mid November. 12. Approved the Board of Directors Goals for the 20142015 school year as presented. 13. Approved the addition of one staff person to support, develop education, and recruit officials in all MSHSL sponsored programs. This position may also be assigned tournament and communication responsibilities. 14. Approved moving forward inviting 80-100 member schools to test the e-PPE (electronic pre-participation examination form). 15. Approved the New Overtime Procedures for Boys’ and Girls’ Hockey as presented (teams will switch ends before the start of each overtime period). 16. Approved the minutes of the October 2, 2014 Eligibility Committee. 17. Approved July and August 2014 financial statements as presented. 18. Rejected a bid, submitted by e-mail, for the state tournament souvenir programs because it did not meet the bid specification that required the bid to be sealed, marked in an envelope, and delivered to the League office. 19. Accepted the bid submitted by Carlson Print Group of Eden Prairie for the 2014-2015 through 2016-2017 school years. Discussion Item Officials’ background checks. The complete official Minutes may be obtained from the League office by the designated schools representative of member schools.

www.MSHSL.org

Congratulations to the Fall 2014 State Team Champions Girls’ Tennis .................................................................................................................................................... A – HOLY FAMILY CATHOLIC, Victoria AA – EDINA Boys’ Soccer ......................................................................................................................................................................... A – ST. CLOUD APOLLO AA – ANOKA Girls’ Soccer .............................................................................................................................................................................................. A – ORONO AA – EAGAN Boys’ Cross Country Running .................................................................................................................................................................... A – MORA AA – WAYZATA Girls’ Cross Country Running ................................................................................................. A – TRINITY SCHOOL AT RIVER RIDGE, Bloomington AA – WAYZATA Girls’ Volleyball ............................................................................................................................................... A – BETHLEHEM ACADEMY, Faribault AA – STEWARTVILLE AAA – CHASKA Adapted Soccer ................................................................................................................................................ CI – SOUTH WASHINGTON COUNTY PI – ROBBINSDALE/HOPKINS/MOUND-WESTONKA Girls’ Swimming & Diving ............................................................................................................................... A – VISITATION, MENDOTA HEIGHTS AA – WAYZATA Football ............................................................................................................................................................................ 9-Man – GRAND MEADOW A – MINNEOTA AA – HOLDINGFORD AAA – ROCHESTER LOURDES AAAA – BECKER AAAAA – MANKATO WEST AAAAAA – EDEN PRAIRIE

Calendars

2014-2015 Calendar of State Events Jan. 16-17 .......................................................................................................... STATE DEBATE TOURNAMENT – University of Minnesota, Minneapolis Feb. 11 .................................................................................................................................................. STATE ALPINE SKI MEET – Giants Ridge, Biwabik Feb. 12 .................................................................................................................................. STATE NORDIC SKI RACING MEET – Giants Ridge, Biwabik Feb. 12-13 ................ STATE ONE ACT PLAY FESTIVAL - Class A (12) & Class AA (13) - O’Shaughnessy Auditorium, St. Catherine University, St. Paul Feb. 13-14 ...................................................................................................... STATE GIRLS’ DANCE TEAM TOURNAMENT – Target Center, Minneapolis Feb. 18-21 .................................................................... STATE GIRLS’ HOCKEY TOURNAMENT – championship rounds @ Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul & consolation rounds @ Ridder Arena, U of M Feb. 20-21 ........................................................................................................................... STATE GIRLS’ GYMNASTICS MEET – Sports Pavilion, U of M Feb. 26-28 .............................................................................................. STATE WRESTLING TOURNAMENT – Xcel Energy Center, RiverCentre, St. Paul March 2 ............................................................... Opening date for girls’ synchronized swimming, adapted bowling, adapted softball & girls’ badminton March 4-7 ..................................................................... STATE BOYS’ HOCKEY TOURNAMENT – championship rounds @ Xcel Energy Center, St. Paul & consolation rounds @ Mariucci Arena, U of M March 5-7 ............................................................................................................... STATE BOYS’ SWIMMING & DIVING MEET – U of M Aquatic Center March 9 ...................................................................................................................................... Opening date for girls’ fast-pitch softball & track and field March 11-14 ...... STATE BOYS’ BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT – Target Center, Williams Arena, U of M, Minneapolis & Concordia University, St. Paul March 13-14 ................................................................ STATE ADAPTED FLOOR HOCKEY TOURNAMENT – Bloomington Jefferson Senior High School March 16 .............................................................................................................................................................................. Opening date for golf & baseball March 17-21 ........................ STATE GIRLS’ BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT – Mariucci Arena & Williams Arena, U of M, & Target Center, Minneapolis, & Concordia University, St. Paul TBD by each Region ................................................................................................................................. VISUAL ARTS FESTIVALS - TBD by each Region TBD by each Region .................................... SECTION / STATE MUSIC CONTESTS / FESTIVALS - various Minnesota sites, dates TBD by each Region March 23 .................................................................................................................................................................................. Opening date for boys’ tennis March 30 .............................................................................................................................................................. Opening date for boys’ and girls’ lacrosse April 17-18 ......................................................................... STATE SPEECH TOURNAMENT – Class A (17) & Class AA (18), Lakeville North High School May 15 ....................................................................................................... STATE ADAPTED BOWLING TOURNAMENT – Brunswick Zone, Eden Prairie May 16 ...................................................................................................... STATE ROBOTICS TOURNAMENT – Williams Arena & Sports Pavilion, U of M May 16 ................................................................................................................................................................. Final date of GIRLS’ BADMINTON season May 29-30 ....................................................................................................... STATE ADAPTED SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT – Coon Rapids High School June 2-5 ...................................................................................... STATE BOYS’ TENNIS TOURNAMENT – Class AA @ Baseline Tennis Center, U of M; Class A @ Reed-Sweatt Family Tennis Center, Minneapolis June 4-5 ........................................................................................................... STATE GIRLS’ SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT – Caswell Park, North Mankato June 5-6 ................................................................................................................................. STATE TRACK & FIELD MEET – Hamline University, St. Paul June 6 ................................................................................................................................................ Final date of GIRLS’ SYNCHRONIZED SWIM season June 9-10 ....................................................................................... STATE GOLF TOURNAMENT – Class AAA @ Bunker Hills Golf Course, Coon Rapids; Class AA @ Ridges at Sand Creek, Jordan; Class A @ Pebble Creek Golf Club, Becker June 9, 11, 13 ................................................................................................. STATE LACROSSE TOURNAMENT – Chanhassen & Chaska High Schools June 11-13 ....................................... STATE BASEBALL TOURNAMENT - Class AAA @ Saints Stadium, St. Paul & Dick Siebert Field, U of M (11-12); Class AA @ Dick Putz Field, St. Cloud & Joe Faber Field, St. Cloud (11-12); Class A @ Athletic Park, Chaska & Mini Met, Jordan (11-12); Prep Championship Series, Target Field, Minneapolis (13) July 4-10 ........................................................................................................................................................................... COACHES NO-CONTACT PERIOD

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Winter 2015 Bulletin

Winter 2015 Calendar of Meetings Calendars

Jan. 13 ............................................................................................................................................... Wrestling Advisory Committee, League Office, 9 a.m. Jan. 14 ................................................................................................................................................... ExCEL Selection Committee, League Office, 9 a.m. Jan. 24 ........................................................................................................................................................ SAT National Test Date (www.collegeboard.org) Jan. 29 ............................................................................................................................. Athletic Directors Advisory Committee, League Office, 9:30 a.m. Feb. 5 ..................................................................................................................................... League Board of Directors Meeting, League Office, 9:30 a.m. Feb. 7 ............................................................................................................................................................. ACT National Test Date (www.actstudent.org) Feb. 17 ................................................................................................................................................. Baseball Advisory Committee, League Office, 9 a.m. Feb. 18 ...................................................................................................................................... Boys’ Lacrosse Advisory Committee, League Office, 9 a.m. Feb. 18 ....................................................................................................................................... Girls’ Lacrosse Advisory Committee, League Office, 3 p.m. March 11 ........................................................................................................................................ Minnesota Adapted Athletics, League Office, 3:30 p.m. March 14 .................................................................................................................................................... SAT National Test Date (www.collegeboard.org) March 16 .............................................................................................................................................................. Region Secretaries, League Office, 9 a.m. April 2 .......................................................................................................................................... League Board of Directors Mtg., League Office, 9:30 a.m. April 8 ............................................................................................................................................. Officials Advisory Committee, League Office, 9:30 a.m. April 18 .......................................................................................................................................................... ACT National Test Date (www.actstudent.org) April 20 ....................................................................................................................... Area Meeting, Best Western Garden Inn, North Mankato, 9:30 a.m. April 24 ....................................................................................................................................................... Area Meeting, Clarion Inn, Rochester, 9:30 a.m. April 27 ............................................................................................................................................... Area Meeting, Best Western, Fergus Falls, 9:30 a.m. April 28 ......................................................................................................................................... Area Meeting, Best Western, Thief River Falls, 9:30 a.m. May 2 .......................................................................................................................................................... SAT National Test Date (www.collegeboard.org) May 5 ................................................................................................................................ Area Meeting, The Lodge at Brainerd Lakes, Brainerd, 9:30 a.m. May 7 ............................................................................................................................................. Area Meeting, Edinburgh USA, Brooklyn Park, 9:30 a.m.

Bigger than the game The following Letter to the Editor of the Kerkhoven Banner was shared with the League. On behalf of our school community, the girls’ basketball team at Lac qui Parle Valley wants to commend Coach (Brady) DeBaere, his staff and players along with their faithful fans for helping us create something bigger than the game held at LqPV High School on Dec. 12, 2014. With one minute left in the game, we entered No. 55, four foot, 10 inch ninth-grader Sainora Dokoche who is originally from Micronesia and a member and honorary sixth starter for our team for the three Friday night games on our schedule. Sainora has Down Syndrome and loves to shoot hoops. A true act of sportsmanship was displayed by your Fighting Saints girls’ basketball program and our dream came true for Sainora when she was allowed to shoot a basket. Sainora was able to swish it from 10 feet away! Unbelievable! That was great, but even better was the reaction of your five girls on the floor, your girls and coaches on the bench and all of the Saints fans in the stands when they cheered along with the LqPV players, coaches and fans. Emotions filled the players, coaches, refs and fans when this life lesson unfolded. When it comes down to it, the outcome (score) of the game we love is meaningless but the outcome (sportsmanship) of what happened is priceless! K-M-S Fighting Saints, you earned your school community a lot of respect. You lived up to your nickname. K-M-S players, coaches and fans in attendance were “Saints,” “Fighting” for someone not as fortunate, but blessed the same as all of us! Best of luck to the K-M-S girls’ basketball team from the LqPV girls’ basketball team! Also, thanks to Owen Gustafson and Dan Dolan who were the officials that didn’t see the travel and double dribble and allowed Sainora to enjoy the moment of being on the court! The Lac qui Parle Valley girls’ basketball team posed for this photograph following their Dec. 12, 2014, game against Ryan Giles Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg. Sainora Dokoche (center, holding the ball), a four foot, 10 inch ninth-grader with Down Syndrome, LqPV Head Coach got into the game and was able to score. and the Girls’ Basketball Team

Winter 2015 Bulletin

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Minnesota State High School League

Nonprofit Org. U.S. POSTAGE

2100 Freeway Boulevard Brooklyn Center MN 55430-1735 PHONE: 763/560-2262 FAX: 763/569-0499 World Wide Web: www.MSHSL.org

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Mission Statement The Minnesota State High School League provides educational opportunities for students through interscholastic athletic and fine arts programs and provides leadership and support for member schools.

Beliefs ◆ Participation in school activity programs is a privilege and not a right. ◆ Sportsmanship needs to have a constant presence in all school-based activity programs. ◆ Students should have an equal opportunity to participate in all activities offered by their school. ◆ Ethical behavior, dignity and respect are nonnegotiable. ◆ Student participants who choose to be chemically free must be supported. ◆ Collaborative relationships with parents enhance a school’s opportunity to positively impact student success. ◆ Academic priorities must come before participation in athletic or fine arts activities.

◆ Positive role models and an active involvement in a student’s life by parents and others are critical to student success. ◆ High school activity programs are designed for student participants, and adults must serve in a supportive role. ◆ The success of the team is more important than individual honors. ◆ Compliance with school, community and League rules is essential for all activity participants. ◆ Participation in school-sponsored activities must be inclusive, not exclusive. ◆ Ethical behavior, fairness, and embracing diversity best serve students and school communities.