Student-Athlete & Parent Handbook

INTRODUCTION TO THE ACADEMY OF SAINT ELIZABETH ATHLETICS:

The Academy of Saint Elizabeth’s Department of Athletics cordially invites all students to participate in the school's interscholastic athletic programs

This handbook provides information on the policies, regulations, and rules of AOSE Athletics, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA), the Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC), the Morris County Secondary Schools' Athletic Directors' Association (MCSSADA), the North Jersey Interscholastic Girls' Lacrosse League (NJIGLL), and the New Jersey Independent Schools' Athletic Association (NJISAA).

AOSE's Athletic Department is dedicated to student-athlete educational development and believes that a properly controlled, well-organized sports program will meet the needs for individual self-expression, mental alertness, and physical growth.

Every student-athlete will learn the importance of goal-setting, sportsmanship, citizenship, and self-sufficiency. Our goal is to develop student-athletes' understanding of the importance of self-discipline and hard work in order to achieve success.

Student-athletes for the Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshman teams are selected based on their demonstrated abilities. Our athletic programs are intended to serve as many student-athletes as possible. Unfortunately, due to various constraints, "cutting" student-athletes from certain programs may become necessary.

The athletic program at the Academy of Saint Elizabeth is very important to the school. I cordially invite you to become a member of our athletic community Please keep in mind that every student-athlete serves as a role model for others and is expected to lead by example Student-athletes should understand that participation in AOSE athletics is a privilege, not a right

ATHLETIC AFFILIATIONS:

Our athletic programs are members of multiple conferences and associations, many of which overlap and sponsor separate tournaments (County, Prep, State, etc) In addition to these tournaments, as members of the NJAC/NJIGLL, we are required to compete in our conference regular season schedule, which is created and distributed by the conference

NJAC: Northwest Jersey Athletic Conference (Cross Country, Field Hockey, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball, Basketball, Swimming, Softball, Outdoor Track & Field)

NJISAA: New Jersey Independent School Athletic Association (We are eligible to participate in the Non-Public North Group B Prep Tournaments as long as scheduling permits with our NJAC/NJIGLL divisional games)

NJSIAA: New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (This is the governing body of New Jersey High School Athletics for Public/Non-Public Schools)

NJIGLL: North Jersey Interscholastic Girls' Lacrosse League (Lacrosse-Specific Conference)

MCSSADA: Morris County Secondary Schools Athletic Directors' Association (All Morris County Tournaments)

MCSSIHL: Morris County Secondary Schools Ice Hockey League (Ice Hockey-Specific Conference

MISSION STATEMENT OF THE ACADEMY OF SAINT ELIZABETH:

The mission of The Academy of Saint Elizabeth - a Catholic, independent, college preparatory school for young women, founded and sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth - is to promote the disciplines of academic excellence and moral responsibility within a nurturing faith community.

THE ACADEMY OF SAINT ELIZABETH PHILOSOPHY:

Rooted in the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the philosophy of the Academy of Saint Elizabeth derives its ethos from Judeo-Christian wisdom affirmed by the official teachings of the Roman Catholic Church and the mission of the Sisters of Charity of Saint Elizabeth We believe that:

● Christianity is a way of life that inspires the thoughts and actions of every student.

● The immersion in and internalization of the ministry of the Sisters of Charity establish unique opportunities for our students to embrace Gospel values, social justice, service to the poor and underserved, fidelity to the Church, faith in the power of the Eucharist, living and growing in community, vital and viable prayer life, and the charism of charity

● A diverse student body and curriculum encourage an understanding and appreciation of a multicultural society

● Single-gender education on a secondary level is foundational and appropriate in fostering leadership roles for women in society

PHILOSOPHY OF AOSE ATHLETICS:

The Department of Athletics at the Academy of Saint Elizabeth strives to provide a comprehensive, diverse, wholesome, and dynamic program that is consistent with the school's philosophy The AOSE Athletic Program, as an integral part of a student's total education, makes a significant contribution to the personal growth and development of those involved.

Although AOSE is excited about the success of its athletic programs, it does not support a "win at all costs" mentality. Each athletic program's goal is to provide a positive experience for the students who choose to participate. Our primary goal is to increase knowledge, contribute to each student-athlete's maturity, teach moral and ethical values, and inspire all to strive for excellence in themselves and their teammates, not only in athletic competition but also in life after sports.

“Winning is not the final result of a game. Winning is an attitude, it's a choice you make every day by your actions. Some talk of winning, others live it. There are no shortcuts.”

Winners make the choice to:

● Get something out of all situations, rather than complain about them

● Hustle, rather than doing it

● Be prepared, rather than just show up

● Be consistent, rather than occasional

● Be early, rather than just on time or late

● Want to learn from mistakes, rather than make excuses or complain

● Do more, rather than just enough or less

● Be mentally tough, rather than mentally lazy or intimidated

● Concentrate on what to do, rather than what may result

● Be aggressive, rather than passive

● Think about solutions, rather than worry about problems

● Accept adversity as part of the game and of life, rather than magnify the adverse conditions and seek sympathy

● Persevere in the face of difficulty, rather than just give up

● Share with and help others, rather than just be selfish

● Ask what can I do, rather than wait to be told

● Think and act positively, rather than negatively

DESCRIPTION OF ATHLETIC PROGRAM LEVELS:

Varsity Athletics: Varsity athletic programs provide opportunities for student-athletes who demonstrate the most competitive skills in a specific sport This level of competition will allow student-athletes to compete against equally talented student-athletes from opposing schools. Varsity student-athletes' attitudes and skills will be developed to provide AOSE with the best possible win-loss record

Junior Varsity Athletics: Junior Varsity athletic programs prepare student-athletes who do not yet possess the skills required of Varsity-level athletes Junior Varsity athletes are gaining valuable knowledge, skill, and experience required for varsity competition. Junior Varsity athletes may occasionally compete in Varsity games These decisions are not absolute and are based on the coaching staff's assessment of each student-athletes abilities.

Freshman Athletics: Freshman-level athletic programs enable students in the ninth grade to compete against other Freshman-level teams to develop the skills needed to compete at the Junior Varsity level in the future

Freshmen student-athletes may compete on the Varsity or Junior Varsity teams if invited This type of decision is based on the coaching staff's assessment of the student-athlete’s current skill level. *The coaching staff makes ALL decisions on playing time.

AOSE SPORT OFFERINGS BY LEVEL:

The following athletic programs are offered at AOSE:

SEASONS: LEVELS OFFERED:

FALL SPORTS:

Cross Country Field Hockey (Co-op)

Soccer

Tennis

Volleyball

WINTER SPORTS:

Basketball

Ice Hockey (co-op)

Swimming

Winter Track

SPRING SPORTS:

Lacrosse

Softball

Track & Field

Varsity

Varsity, JV

Varsity

Varsity, JV

Varsity, JV, Freshman

Varsity, JV

Varsity

Varsity

Varsity

Varsity, JV

Varsity

Varsity

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT POLICIES:

Tryouts:

Tryouts for teams are held before the season when allowed by the NJSIAA. For sports that do not have specific tryout dates built into the schedule, tryouts will occur during the first week of practice

*Attendance at tryouts is MANDATORY! Student-athletes who fail to attend tryouts will be the first cut from the team if cuts are to be made Student-athletes who do not attend each day of tryouts (unless an exception is granted by the Director of Athletics) will not be eligible to earn a varsity letter

Start of Tryouts/Practices: (Start dates change yearly)

The New Jersey High School Athletic Association (NJSIAA) establishes the dates on which each team may hold tryouts and begin the athletic pre-season and competition seasons. Because the entire state follows the same schedule, the Academy is required to follow these dates. Every year, all student-athletes are required to try out for the team. Past participation on a team does not guarantee a spot in future seasons. Athletic teams will be chosen each year based on their current skills and performance. Seniority is also not a factor in earning a spot on a Varsity level team.

Participation:

AOSE student-athletes may only participate in one AOSE sport per season. If a student-athlete quits or is asked to leave a team after the first contest date, she cannot participate in another sport during the competition season. A student-athlete may not try out for a team once the official roster has been submitted to the Athletic Department for grade level and eligibility verification This rule does not apply to transfer student-athletes Exceptions will also be made for student-athletes who have been cut and wish to try out for another team during the pre-season Every student-athlete must have participated in a minimum of six practices (not sessions) before the first scrimmage or game unless she has participated in a state championship contest in the preceding season, or within three days of the previous season, as per the NJSIAA.

School and Class Attendance:

Participation on an athletic team is a privilege granted after a student's academic responsibilities are met. Attendance in the classroom is an important requirement for a good education, as is attendance at all team-bonding activities Attendance requirements for participation in a sport are as follows:

● Student-athletes will attend all classes regularly and be on time

● Any student who is not signed into school by 10:30 a.m. will not be permitted to participate in any athletic activity that day (practices or competitions)

*Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances may be granted by the Director of Athletics

● Student-athletes will not use a sport as an excuse to miss a class unless the team is departing early from school In the case of an early dismissal, every student-athlete is responsible for any material or class time missed

Attendance at Practices and Games:

Attendance at all practice sessions and games, including those held during the summer, is REQUIRED. Student-athletes must remember that they are making a commitment to their team, and they must be loyal to their teammates and coaches. Please keep in mind that all practices, including tryouts, are MANDATORY (see the Tryouts section above)

Captains are held to higher attendance standards due to the critical role they play in the team's success Team captains should review the "Role of the Team Captain" section below and be aware that they are responsible for attending every practice session during the season

Physical conditioning and game readiness are major concerns for athletes who miss games and practices for any length of time during the season The greater concern, however, is the health and safety of those student-athletes who miss games, are no longer in peak physical condition, and cannot compete at the highest level

Student-athletes who will be absent or tardy for a practice or game for not school-related reasons must notify the head coach before the missed practice or game. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to notify the Head Coach of any missed practice or game Non-compliance with this rule may result in suspension or dismissal from the team.

Every student-athlete must be signed in by 10:30 a.m. to practice or compete in the afternoon competition (Exceptions due to extenuating circumstances may be granted by the Director of Athletics) If a student-athlete is sent home sick, she will be unable to attend or participate in the afternoon contest.

Any team member, regardless of level, who misses a game or practice may be stripped of playing time or a starting spot. Student-athletes who have been practicing daily with their teammates will be rewarded.

Please keep in mind that tryouts, practices, and games occur throughout the summer, including August. During the Thanksgiving, Christmas (Winter), Easter (Spring), and Memorial Day holiday breaks, athletic activities will also be held. Plan family vacations during the off-season or the No-Contact Period in August whenever possible.

When considering trying out for a team, please keep in mind the intensity of a high school athletic schedule, as it is critical to honor the commitment you are making to your team.

Practice & Games Schedules:

All team practices and scheduled contests can be viewed on the rSchool Activity Scheduler’s website: http://www.nwjerseyac.com You are encouraged to download the rSchool App and sign up for notifications for your athletic teams in case of changes to the practice or game schedule Every effort will be made to announce schedule changes due to inclement weather by 1:00 p m on the day of the change In the event of an official school closing, the status of athletic contests or practices will be determined later in the morning.

AOSE STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS:

Students who want to participate in an athletic program must establish priorities and make sound decisions Academic performance takes precedence over athletic participation Students who need extra help after school or make up academic work should bring a note from a faculty member to practice with them Any disciplinary actions, including detentions, take precedence over athletic practices. Suspensions take priority over both athletic practices and competitions. Student-athletes who violate these rules face suspension or dismissal from the team, loss of captaincy, and loss of level recognition awards

In summary, as a student-athlete you are expected to behave in ways that will bring honor to your school, coaches, family, community, or teammates through the following:

● Exemplary school citizenship

● Consistent attendance in class and school

● Consistent attendance at team practices and games

● Positively influencing team morale

● Obedience to your coach

● Meeting or exceeding standards for academic eligibility

● Respect for school property and property of others

● Display of exemplary sportsmanship conduct toward teammates, opponents, opposing fans, officials, and coaches

Any violation of the aforementioned rules may lead to dismissal from the team for the duration of the season or result in an indefinite suspension.

TEAM CAPTAINS:

The Role of an AOSE Team Captain:

The role of team captain requires a great deal of responsibility. A team captain is more than just a team member; they are an extension of the coach The team captain is expected to be a leader both on and off the field, a role model within the school, a source of school pride in the AOSE community, and a liaison between the team and the coaching staff In many sports, only the team captains are permitted to speak with an official. Being a successful team captain requires a lot of leadership And as a leader, there will be times when you must make difficult decisions in order to support and improve your team At AOSE, the role of team captain is not to be taken lightly. Captains will be selected from teams of all grade levels, not just Seniors.

A team captain who misses a practice or game without a valid reason, or who fails to notify the coach according to the established guidelines (see Attendance at Practice and Games above), risks losing her captaincy as well as suspension or dismissal from the team.

While holding the title of "Captain" of her team, an Academy of Saint Elizabeth student-athlete will be expected to demonstrate the following leadership qualities:

● Honest, strong focus on academics, dedicated, leads by example

● Inspiring, good communicator, strives to be her best

● Good listener, recognizes and values team needs

● Enthusiastic, is not afraid to speak her mind

● Hard working, selfless

● Respectful, appropriate behavior and conduct in and out of school

● Dependable, helps the team set goals

● Positive, will motivate others

This is the criterion by which team captains will be selected Before each season, all captains will sign a "Captains Contract" based on the criteria. If an AOSE student-athlete who is a team captain fails to meet the above-mentioned leadership expectations, she will lose the title of "Captain" immediately Captaincy is a privilege that can be revoked at the discretion of the Academy Administration, the Director of Athletics, or the coaching staff.

Captains should CARE:

● Compliment your teammates every day

● Act in your teammates' best interests

● Respect the differences in others

● Extend a helping hand

HAZING AND INITIATIONS POLICY:

Hazing or initiations of student-athletes by other team members are not acceptable, and such behavior will not be tolerated These actions may be illegal, and those involved may face police or legal action, as well as additional school consequences up to and including (1) dismissal from participation in any athletic program; (2) suspension from participation in any athletic program; and/or (3) suspension from school

Hazing occurs when an act is committed against a student or a student is coerced into committing an act that poses a significant risk of harm to the student or a third party in order for the student to be initiated or affiliated with any school group, club, athletics team, grade level, activity, or organization

The following are some examples of hazing, classified as subtle, harassing, or violent. It's impossible to list all of the possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific

● Subtle Hazing

○ Deception

○ Deprivation of privileges granted to other members

○ Name calling

○ Requiring new members to perform duties not assigned to other members

○ Socially isolating new members

● Harassment Hazing

○ Asking new members to wear embarrassing/humiliating attire

○ Expecting new members to perform personal services to other members such as carrying bags and/or equipment

○ Threats or implied threats

○ Verbal abuse

● Violent Hazing

○ Abductions/kidnaps

○ Beating, paddling, and/or other assaults

○ Exposure to extreme temperatures without appropriate protection

○ Forced or coerced alcohol or drug consumption

○ Forced or coerced ingestion of vile substances/concoctions

○ Public nudity

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY:

As an active member of any AOSE athletic team, student-athletes must use extreme caution when using any and all social networking websites Individuals must not "post," "share," or "acknowledge" any comments, pictures, or links that could be interpreted as inappropriate in relation to you, the Academy, sport, coach, teammates, opponents, or officials Such posts, shares, or acknowledgments will result in disciplinary action Furthermore, if such comments, pictures, or links are found to be posted that cause disruptions/conflicts on school grounds or at other competitive venues, or they are perceived to be offensive in nature and in violation of the above hazing and initiations policy, your actions may be considered insubordinate, and the student-athlete will face additional administrative disciplinary consequences

CELL PHONE POLICY:

Students will not be permitted to use their cellphones during any athletic practice or competition. The student-athlete may use their phone before arriving at their designated athletic venue, but it must be stored away and placed in either a backpack or locker until the end of the athletic activity

INAPPROPRIATE ATHLETIC BEHAVIORS:

A student-athlete may be removed from an athletic team due to inappropriate behavior both in and out of school She will be disciplined for violating general Academy of Saint Elizabeth rules, which state that the student-athlete should not perform in the following:

● Smoking/vaping

● Alcohol consumption

● Use of narcotics, stimulants/steroids, and/or illegal drugs

● Theft

● Property destruction

● Inappropriate language directed at the situation, team, coaches, or officials

● Unacceptable behavior as determined by the coaches, athletic director, and principal

Furthermore, any student/athlete suspended outside of school may be subject to dismissal from the team

NJSIAA / AOSE ELIGIBILITY RULES:

Enrollment:

A student-athlete must be enrolled at AOSE and meet all of the eligibility requirements outlined in the NJSIAA's Constitution, Bylaws, and Rules and Regulations in order to participate in interscholastic athletics Every student-athlete must have participated in a minimum of six practices (not sessions) before the first scrimmage or game unless she has participated in a state championship contest in the preceding season, or within three days of the previous season, as per the NJSIAA.

NJSIAA Amateur Rules/NIL Provision:

A student-athlete must maintain their amateur status An amateur student-athlete participates in athletics solely for physical, mental, social, and educational benefits. The amateur student-athlete views all athletic activities she participates in as a hobby

Effective January 1, 2022, the NJSIAA permits student-athletes to profit off of the use of their own name, image, and likeness ("NIL"), in such activities including, but not limited to, "commercial endorsements, promotional activities, social media presence, product or service advertisements, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs)" Student-athletes, however, cannot engage in NIL activities with:

(1) "Adult entertainment products and services";

(2) "Alcohol products";

(3) "Tobacco and nicotine-related products";

(4) "Cannabis products";

(5) "Controlled dangerous substances";

(6) "Prescription pharmaceuticals";

(7) "Casinos and gambling, including sports betting, the lottery, and betting in connection with video games, on-line games and mobile devices; and"

(8) "Weapons, firearms and ammunition"

AOSE expects all student-athletes to comply with all NJSIAA rules and guidelines.

Athletic Recruitment:

The granting of "Athletic Scholarships" or other assistance of monetary value in exchange for athletic participation at any level is forbidden.

Age:

If an athlete turns nineteen before September 1st, she becomes ineligible for high school athletics. However, any athlete turning nineteen on or after September 1 is eligible for the following school year A birth certificate issued at the time of birth is the standard proof of age In the absence of this, other proofs, such as baptismal records or early school records, may be used.

Academic Eligibility:

A student, to be eligible for participation in the interscholastic athletic programs, must meet all the eligibility requirements of the New Jersey Sports Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA). Eligibility rules apply to all freshman, junior varsity, and varsity teams involved in interscholastic athletic competition Please review the details below regarding Academic eligibility and the NJSIAA guidelines. Eligibility for sports or extra-curricular activities is determined by students’ academic and physical standing

● First semester (September 1 to January 31), a student must have earned 30 credits during the immediately preceding academic year

● Second semester (February 1 to June 30), a student must be passing 15 credits at the close of the preceding semester (January 31)

● Credits recovered in pre-approved summer school courses can only be applied to the preceding year and must be completed by the sixth day of school for eligibility purposes

● All first-time 9th-grade students are eligible during the first semester of the school year (September 1 to January 31).

● The NJSIAA has no appeal process for ineligible students

Transfers:

Students are entitled to one penalty-free transfer during the first six semesters after their initial high school enrollment, provided that the transfer occurs on or before the Start of Practice Date of the sports season in which the transfer occurs. Students who transfer after the Start of Practice Date will be subject to a 30-day period of ineligibility (or ½ the Maximum Number of Contests in that sport, whichever is less). In addition to the period of ineligibility, any student who transfers after the Competition Start Date will not be eligible for NJSIAA postseason competition in that sport. Senior transfers are subject to a 22-day period of ineligibility (or 1/3 the Maximum Number of Contests, whichever is less) in each sport in which they participated during or after their third season of eligibility, during the 12-months preceding the transfer This Transfer Rule applies to all student-athletes at all levels of participation (not just varsity athletes) and is applicable to all NJSIAA-sanctioned sports in which the student participated during the 12-months preceding the transfer. Transferring students may participate in a new sport without penalty

The period of ineligibility will begin on the Competition Start Date of each sport For students who transfer after the Competition Start Date, the period of ineligibility will begin on the date of enrollment. Immediate eligibility, without penalty, will be granted for transfers resulting from DCP&P placement, court placement, HIB transfers, and military transfers The NJSIAA monitors transfers with the cooperation of the member schools through an online Transfer Portal. For each transferring student, the sending school and the receiving school must enter the required information into the Transfer Portal.

A student‐athlete who transfers from one secondary school to another because of a bona fide change of residence by his/her parents or guardians, becomes eligible to represent her new school immediately upon entrance unless recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage is alleged and provided all other eligibility regulations are satisfied. Both the former and new school must complete a transfer form affirmatively stating that the transfer is a bona fide change of residence and that there was no athletic recruitment or a transfer for athletic advantage.

Any evidence of a transfer for athletic advantage shall subject the athlete to a prompt determination of eligibility by the Eligibility Appeals Committee and may subject the school and the athlete to appropriate disciplinary proceedings A transfer for athletic advantage is defined as, but not limited to:

● Seeking a superior athletic team;

● Seeking relief due to a conflict with the philosophy or action of an administrator; teacher or coach relating to sports;

● Seeking a team consistent with the student's athletic abilities;

● Seeking a means to nullify punitive action by the previous school; or

● Seeking to be coached by the coach at a new school

Graduated Athletes:

If a student has received a diploma, she is ineligible However, she may continue to represent her school until the official end of that semester - either January 31st or June 30th.

Re-Enrolled Students:

If a student has left school but re-enrolls, she will be eligible 30-days from the date of re-enrollment

The Eight Semester Rule:

No student shall be eligible for high school athletics after the expiration of eight consecutive semesters following her entrance into the ninth grade.

Number of Practices:

A student shall not be permitted to participate in any interscholastic scrimmage or a game until she has completed SIX days of practice and one day of rest

IN & OUT OF SEASON NJSIAA GUIDELINES:

In-Season:

Out of Season Period:

Summer Period:

The in-season period starts on the first official day of practice and concludes on the final championship in a particular sport.

The out-of-season period shall be from the final championship in a particular sport to the first official day of practice the following year in that sport, except for the summer recess.

The summer period begins the Monday after the last scheduled spring NJSIAA event and ends on August 31.

Camps or Clinics:

During the off-season, schools or school-related groups may not support a student-athlete through attending a camp or clinic. This includes providing uniforms, equipment, and funds for the camp or clinic, as well as transportation. Coaches are not permitted to instruct their student-athletes during the off-season. As spectators, coaches may attend a participating clinic. However, regardless of the format or separation of stations at a clinic, they may not be involved in any way when their student-athletes are present at a camp or clinic

Please keep in mind that many of our teams will attend a summer camp together or play in a summer or off-season league Participation in any of these leagues or camps is entirely voluntary and is not sanctioned by The Academy of Saint Elizabeth. Participation in these leagues/camps will have no bearing on one's ability to make an AOSE team once tryouts begin While student-athletes are encouraged to work on their skills during the offseason, future team participation is not contingent on off-season attendance Summer workouts with the coaching staff are also included. While participation in such workouts is encouraged, it has no bearing on one's tryout status

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) GuidelinesPreparation for Participation in College Athletics:

If a student intends to participate in NCAA Division I or II college athletics as a freshman, the student must be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center. Certain academic criteria must be achieved in high school in order to be eligible to participate in college. The student’s counselor can determine if initial eligibility standards apply. If met, go to the NCAA Eligibility Center and submit the application the summer after the junior year. The application is online at wwweligibilitycenterorg Meeting the minimum NCAA eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission into the college of choice Please confirm course requirements via the NCAA website at wwwncaa org

Four Year Plan for College Recruitment:

Preparing for the future is an exciting time for students and their parents. The Counseling Office, Head Coach, and the Department of Athletics will assist the students in the college recruiting process. The following outline will provide a 4-year plan to guide student-athletes in their college selection process.

Freshman Year Agenda:

● Students should start planning now, work hard to get the best grades in your classes

● Students should take classes that match your high school’s list of NCAA approved core courses (you can access and print Northern’s list of approved core courses at wwweligibilitycenterorg; select “Resources, then “U S High School Students” and “Are you on Track?”, then select “List of approved Core Courses”, follow prompts to select school by name The NCAA Eligibility Center will only use approved core courses to certify your initial eligibility

● The Counseling Department and Head Coach will introduce the idea of college athletics and the variety of options to play after high school (NCAA Division I, II, III, as well as NIAA, NJCAA and NCCAA)

● The Counseling Deparment and Director of Athletics will explain current NCAA academic eligibility requirements (core courses, grades, test scores) Encourage students to work with their counselor and coach Encourage students to visit the web site address for the NCAA Guide for the College Bound Student-Athlete (ncaa org, click on “Legislation and Governance” on left hand side of the screen and then “Eligibility and Recruiting”; by clicking on “Information for College-Bound Student-Athletes and Parents” users will be directed to a page where current Guide can be downloaded.)

● The Director of Athletics will help students understand the collegiate playing arena by observing a range of college teams and examine coaching styles.

Sophomore Year Agenda:

● Students should start planning now, and work hard to get the best grades in your classes

● Students should take classes that match your high school’s list of NCAA approved core courses (you can access and print Northern’s list of approved core courses at wwwnccaclearinghouse net) The NCAA Eligibility Center will only use approved core courses to certify your initial eligibility

● The Counseling Department and Head Coach will assist students in identifying factors that should be considered in assessing a collegiate sports program, i.e. coaching style, team chemistry, playing time/schedule, time commitment during the season and in the offseason, training and conditioning programs, level of competition within league and school support of the athletic program.

● The Counseling Department and Director of Athletics will explain current NCAA academic eligibility requirements (core courses, grades, test scores).

● The Counselor Department and Director of Athletics will explain to students that they should carefully evaluate recruiting services to ensure they meet their needs before using one.

● The Counseling Department and Head Coach will have students develop goals for their own athletic progress moving toward college.

Junior Year Agenda:

● Students will at the beginning of junior year register at www.eligibilitycenter.org.

● Students will complete the Amateurism Questionnaire (same site as above)

● Students will register to take the ACT, SAT, PSAT and use the Eligibility Center code “9999” as score recipient. Doing this sends your scores directly to the Eligibility Center.

● Students will double check to make sure you are taking courses that match the Northern’s list of NCAA-approved core courses.

● Students will request that your counselor send an official transcript to the Eligibility Center after completing your junior year. (The Eligibility Center does not accept faxed transcripts)

● The Director of Athletics will introduce specific rules/regulations relating to contacts with college coaches.

● The Director of Athletics will have students register with the NCAA Eligibility Center.

● The Counseling Department will explain current NCAA academic eligibility requirements (core courses, grades, test scores).

● The Head Coach and Director of Athletics will be honest about evaluating a student’s talent level and the probability of playing at certain colleges

● The Counseling Department will make sure all students are enrolled in correct classes and getting good grades

● The Counseling Department will consider the student’s overall wants and needs in college (not just athletics)

● The Director of Athletics will share access to all NCAA resources with students

● The Director of Athletics will encourage students to come with any questions they may have or any help they may need.

● The Counseling Department and Head Coach will reevaluate goals for the student's own athletic progress moving toward college.

● The Counseling Department and Director of Athletics will be proactive throughout the year to remind students about deadlines.

Senior Year Agenda:

● Students will at the beginning of his/her senior year check with Counselor and the Eligibility Center to determine the number of core courses that need to be completed by the senior year

● Students will determine if taking the SAT or ACT is necessary The Eligibility Center will use the best scores from each section of the SAT or ACT to determine your best cumulative scores

● Students will check to make sure the courses being taken match Northern’s list of NCAA-approved core courses.

● Students will review the Amateurism Questionnaire responses and request final amateurism certification beginning April 1 (for fall enrollees) or October 1 (for Winter/Spring enrollees).

● Students will continue to earn the best grades possible.

● Students will ask the Counselor after graduation to send a final transcript with proof of graduation.

● Students will graduate on time (in eight academic semesters). If a student falls behind, use summer school sessions prior to graduation year to catch up.

● The Director of Athletics will introduce specific rules and regulations relating to recruiting, recruiting calendars, and unofficial and official visits. Will explain differences between Division I, II, and III.

● The Director of Athletics will discuss specific circumstances that may present themselves during an unofficial or official visit and prepare students in their response

● The Director of Athletics will provide lists of possible questions for students and parents to ask potential coaches and academic personnel

● The Counseling Deprtment will remind students that the college selection process should be based on a combination of academic and athletic fit

Graduate on Time:

● From the time the student enters the ninth grade, they have four years, or eight semesters to graduate from high school. If the student does not graduate “on time” in eight semesters, no core courses taken after the eighth semester will be counted toward your NCAA academic eligibility requirements.

● Graduation “on time” also means that if the high school graduation takes place June 1, and the student graduated on June 1. If the student does not graduate on June 1 with the rest of the high school class, the student has not graduated “on time”

Contact:

Contact Period:

Recruiting Regulations for the High School Student:

Contact occurs any time a coach has any face to face contact with you or your parents off the college campus and says more than hello A contact also occurs if a coach has any contact with you or your parents at your high school or any location where you are competing or practicing

During this time, a college coach may have in-person contact with you and/or your parents on or off the college campus The coach may also watch you play or visit your high school You and your parents may visit a college campus and the coach may write and telephone you during this period

Dead Period:

Evaluation:

A college coach may not have any in person contact with you or your parents on or off campus at any time during a dead period The coach may write and telephone you or your parents during this time

An evaluation is an activity by a coach to evaluate your academic or athletics ability This would include visiting your high school or watching you practice or compete

Evaluation Period:

National Letter of Intent:

During this time, a college coach may watch you play or visit your high school, but cannot have any in person conversation with you or your parents off the college campus. You and your parents can visit a college campus during this period A coach may write and telephone you or your parents during this time

The National Letter of Intent (NLI) is a voluntary program administered by the Eligibility Center. By signing an NLI, your son or daughter agrees to attend the institution for one academic year. In exchange, that institution must provide athletic financial aid for one academic year. Restrictions are contained in the NLI itself. Read them carefully. These restrictions may affect your eligibility If you have questions about the National Letter of Intent, visit the Web site at wwwnational-letterorg or call 877-262-1492

Any visit to a college campus by you and your parents paid for by the college. The college may pay all or some of the following expenses:

● Your transportation to and from the college

● Room and meals (three per day) while you are visiting the college

Official Visit:

Prospective Student-Athlete:

● Reasonable entertainment expenses, including three complimentary admissions to a home athletic contest.

Before a college may invite you on an official visit, you will have to provide the college with a copy of your high school transcript (Division I only) and SAT, ACT, or PLAN score and register with the Eligibility Center.

You become a prospective student athlete when:

● You start 9th grade classes

● Before your ninth-grade year, a college gives you, your relatives or your friends any financial aid or other benefits that the college does not provide to students generally

Quiet Period:

During this time a college coach may not have any in person contact with you or your parents off the college campus The coach may not watch you play or visit your high school during this period You and your parents may visit a college campus during this time A coach may write or telephone you or your parents during this time.

Recruiting Calendar:

Unofficial Visit:

Division I & II Recruiting Calendars: https://wwwncaa org/sports/2018/5/8/division-i-and-ii-recruiting-calendars aspx

Any visit by you and your parents to a college campus paid for by you or your parents is an unofficial visit The only expense you may receive from the college is three complimentary admissions to a home athletic contest You may make as many unofficial visits as you like and may take those visits at any time The only time you cannot talk with a coach during an unofficial visit is during the dead period

Verbal Commitment:

This phrase is used to describe a college-bound student athlete commitment to a school before he or she signs (or is able to sign) a National Letter of Intent A college-bound student athlete can announce a verbal commitment at any time While verbal commitments have become very popular for both college bound student athletes and coaches, this commitment is NOT binding on either the college bound student athlete or the institution Only the signing of the National Letter of Intent accompanied by a financial aid agreement is binding on both parties

Information supplied in this section was obtained from the NCAA You may visit the website at wwwncaa org for updated information or contact of the counseling office or athletic department for further information

MEDICAL POLICIES & STUDENT-ATHLETE INJURIES:

All medical policies and forms for student-athletes can be found on PowerSchool Prior to the start of pre-season, the forms must be completed and signed on PowerSchool Once all forms have been submitted and approved by the school nurse and athletic trainer, every student-athlete will be allowed to participate in a sport According to NJSIAA bylaws, any student-athlete must have a physical completed by a family physician or the school's physician "within 365 days prior to the first practice session " Furthermore, "each student whose medical examination was completed more than 90 days prior to the first practice session shall provide a health history update of medical problems encountered since the previous medical examination "

The annual Athletic Forms include the following:

● Health History Update Questionnaire

● Sports-Related Concussion and Head Injury Fact Sheet

● NJSIAA Steroid/Drug Random Testing Policy

● Sudden Cardiac Arrest Pamphlet

● ImPact Testing Information Sheet and Consent Form

● Emergency Medical Authorization

● NJSIAA’s Opioid Use and Misuse Consent Form

● NJSIAA’s Opioid Education NJ Cares Video Acknowledgement Form

● Sports-Related Eye Injuries

Any injury sustained by an athlete during an AOSE sanctioned practice or interscholastic contest must be reported to the Head Coach immediately. This is the student-athlete's responsibility The Head Coach will then complete and submit an accident report to the Department of Athletics. Student-athletes who sustain an illness or injury during an athletic event or any other activity that necessitates a visit to the doctor, hospital, or primary care facility MUST obtain written clearance from that physician before returning to AOSE athletics. Before returning to play, the student-athlete MUST also be evaluated by AOSE's Athletic Trainer (Atlantic Health) for any medical injuries or conditions Please read through all of the medical protocols listed on AOSE's website, https://www.aosenj.org/athletics, as well as the Concussion Policy below

CONCUSSION POLICY:

Academy of Saint Elizabeth's Concussion Protocol for the Prevention and Treatment of Sports Related Concussions and Head Injuries:

Prevention:

All student athletes must obtain a computer-based pre-season baseline test through lmPACT. The school has purchased a subscription to lmPACT. Please visit our website to find the information for lmPACT testing.

1. Review of educational information for student athletes on prevention of concussions.

2 Reinforcement of the importance of early identification and treatment of concussions to improve recovery.

Student-athletes who are exhibiting the signs and symptoms of a sports related concussion or other head injuries during practice or competition shall be immediately removed from play and may not return to play that day.

Education:

All student-athletes who participate in interscholastic sports need to review the NJDOE Concussion and Head Injury fact sheet/NJSIAA Concussion Policy Acknowledgement Form This form is listed in each season’s Athletic Registration Paperwork and needs to be electronically signed by both the parent/guardian and student-athlete.

Possible Signs of Concussion:

(Could be observed by Coaches, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse)

1 Appears dazed, stunned, or disoriented

2 Forgets plays, or demonstrates short term memory difficulty

3 Exhibits difficulties with balance or coordination

4 Answers questions slowly or inaccurately

5 Loses consciousness

Possible Symptoms of Concussion:

(Reported by the student-athlete to Coaches, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, Parent/Guardian)

1 Headache

2 Nausea/Vomiting

3 Balance problems or dizziness

4 Double vision or changes in vision

5 Sensitivity to light or sound/noise

6 Feeling sluggish or foggy

7. Difficulty with concentration and short-term memory

8. Sleep disturbance

9. Irritability

*Student athletes must be evaluated by a physician or licensed health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussion to determine the presence or absence of a sports related concussion or head injuries.

Suspected Concussion Protocol:

1 Immediate removal from competition or practice 911 should be called if there is a deterioration of symptoms, loss of consciousness, or direct neck pain associated with the injury

2 The student-athlete should be evaluated by the school's licensed healthcare provider who is trained in the evaluation and management of concussions.

3 School personnel (Athletic Director, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, Head Coach, etc.) should make contact with the student-athlete's parent/guardian and inform him/her of the suspected sports related concussion or head injury

4. School personnel (Athletic Director, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, Head Coach, etc ) shall provide the student athlete with AOSE's suggestions for management/medical checklist to provide their parent/guardian and physician or other licensed healthcare professional trained in the evaluation and management of sports-related concussions and other head injuries

5. The student athlete must receive written clearance from a physician trained in the evaluation and management of concussions that states the student athlete is asymptomatic at rest and may begin the graduated return to play protocol.

Gradual Return to Practice and Competitions Protocol:

Complete physical, cognitive, emotional, and social rest is advised while the student athlete is experiencing symptoms and signs of a sports-related concussion or other head injury (Minimize mental exertion, limit overstimulation, multi-tasking, etc.)

After written medical clearance is given by a physician trained in the evaluation and management of concussions stating that the student athlete is asymptomatic at rest, the student-athlete may begin a gradual individualized return to play protocol supervised by a Licensed Athletic Trainer, or in cases where the aforementioned is not available, a physician or licensed healthcare provider trained in the evaluation and management of sports-related concussions.

The following steps should be followed:

1. Completion of a full day of normal cognitive activities (school day, studying for tests, watching practice, interacting with peers) without re-emergence of any signs and symptoms If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

2 Light aerobic exercise, which includes walking, swimming, or stationary cycling, keeping the intensity less than 70% maximum percentage heart rate: no resistance training The objective of this step is to increase heart rate If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

3. Sport-specific exercise including skating, and/or running; no head impact activities. The objective of this step is to add movement and continue to increase the heart rate. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

4 Non-contact training drills (e g , passing drills) The student-athlete may initiate progressive resistance training If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

5. Following medical clearance (consultation between school health care personnel, i e , Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, and student athlete's physician), participation in normal training/practice activities The objective of this step is to restore confidence and to assess functional skills by the coaching staff. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

6. Return to play involving normal game exertion or game activity.

● If the student-athlete exhibits a re-emergence of any concussion signs or symptoms once they return to physical activity, she will be removed from further exertional activities and returned to her primary care physician.

● If concussion symptoms reoccur during the graduated return to play protocol, the student athlete will return to the previous level of activity that caused no symptoms.

In all cases, the student-athlete should follow instructions by their physician.

ATHLETIC TRAINING:

We are fortunate to have a full-time certified Athletic Trainer. If a student is injured, the Athletic Trainer must be notified. If the injury is not an emergency and the trainer is not immediately summoned, the injured student-athlete must first notify the coaching staff. Following a review of the injury, the Athletic Trainer will determine the best course of action. If the injury necessitates the attention of a physician, he or she will make that recommendation after consulting with the parent and the Director of Athletics. When an injury occurs, an accident report must be filed with the trainer and the coaching staff.

Coaches will continue to receive CPR/AED, First Aid, and National High School Association Sports Safety training in order to recognize and provide immediate care to student-athletes A student who visits a doctor must bring a note from the doctor stating what the student can and cannot do as well as the date(s) of non-participation, if applicable.

INSURANCE:

The Academy of Saint Elizabeth provides all student-athletes with insurance coverage called Bollinger Insurance for documented injuries. In the event of an injury taking place at an AOSE athletic practice or contest, school accident insurance coverage purchased by the Academy provides coverage on an EXCESS BASIS only. This means that only those medical expenses which are NOT payable by your own personal or group insurance are eligible for coverage under this policy, subject to the limitations and exclusions. If a student-athlete's parent or guardian wishes to obtain school accident insurance coverage, please contact the Director of Athletics, Kelly Abner, for the Bollinger Insurance form

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT COMMUNICATION:

To promote student-athlete independence and responsibility, we encourage them to seek solutions to problems on their own first If a student-athlete has a concern, she should first discuss it with the Head Coach.

If your daughters' meeting with the Head Coach did not resolve the issue, please contact Kelly Abner, Director of Athletics, to arrange a meeting with the Head Coach and student-athlete.

Students or parents/spectators should not confront any coach before or after a game or practice These can be difficult times for both you and the coach to deal with Meetings of this type do not promote resolution, so the issue will be revisited after a 24-hour waiting period for everyone.

Head Coach Communication Topics:

● Team philosophy and student-athlete conduct

● Daily practice and game attendance

● Individual expectations, requirements, and objectives (goals)

● Practices and games schedules (locations, dates, and times)

● Weight training and competition safety

● Team guidelines, protocols, and consequences

● Warm-up and uniform policies

● Athletic conditioning and injury prevention

● Criteria for end-of-season awards and captain selection process

Student-Athletes & Parents Communication Topics:

● Advance notice of schedule conflicts

● Return to play documentation from a physician or school nurse

● Appropriate Concerns (student-athlete behavior, student-athlete treatment)

*Inappropriate concerns such as playing time, team strategy, play calling, and comparison to other student-athletes are personal matters that should be addressed in person first with the Head Coach and the student-athlete

Please follow the process outlined below when reporting athletic-related concerns to help maintain the Athletic Department's integrity The Director of Athletics will decide which issues will require administrative intervention and which will be resolved within the Department of Athletics

Student-Athlete’s Approach to resolving athletic concerns:

Step 1: Contact the Head Coach via AOSE email to schedule an appointment. If the coach cannot be reached, contact the Director of Athletics and a meeting will be arranged for you. (A response will occur after a 24-hour waiting period)

Step 2: Your daughter speaks and follows up with the Director of Athletics

Step 3: If the problem is not yet resolved, set up a meeting between the Director of Athletics, student-athlete, and parents

Step 4: If the problem is not yet resolved, please make an appointment with the Director of Athletics to discuss the situation

AOSE ATHLETIC AWARDS POLICIES:

Certificate of Varsity Participation:

Each student-athlete on the Varsity team who meets the requirements will receive a certificate of participation and a Varsity Letter and/or pin based upon years of participation

Certificate of Junior Varsity Participation:

Each Junior Varsity student-athlete who completes an athletic sport season and is on the final Junior Varsity roster will receive a participation certificate

Certificate of Freshman Participation:

Each Freshman student-athlete who completes an athletic sport season and is on the final Freshman roster will receive a participation certificate

Varsity Letter: Team Sports (no individual aspects or events):

A varsity letter and subsequent pins are awarded when a student-athlete competes in at least 50% of varsity regular and postseason competitions (excluding scrimmages) and:

● Consistently attends practices and games

● Shows a cooperative attitude toward the coach, teammates, and opponents.

● Respects others both on and off the field; follows all rules and regulations outlined in this student-athlete handbook

Varsity Letter: Individual Sports:

All Individual Sports and Team Sports with individual aspects or events:

A varsity letter and subsequent pins are awarded when a student-athlete competes in at least 50% of the varsity level's regular and postseason competitions, in the scoring heat, and qualifies for 50% of the qualifying tournaments, meets, and events where standards must be met in order to participate, as well as:

● Attends practices and games on a consistent basis

● Displays a cooperative spirit with the coach, teammates, and opponents

● Displays respect for others on and off the field

● Respects others both on and off the field; observes all rules and regulations as outlined in this student-athlete handbook.

A student-athlete who is a regular varsity player but is injured may be awarded a letter if the coach believes she would have met the criteria.

When a student-athlete receives her first varsity letter with a specific team, she will be given a blue letter E She will receive a pin to wear on the letter the second and third times she receives a letter for that team. If a student-athlete has met the requirements for a varsity letter for all four years, she will be awarded a white letter E.

Athletic Awards & End-of-Season Banquet:

A sport-specific banquet will be held at the conclusion of each athletic season to honor each student-athlete. Each coach will give a brief recap and highlights of their season and recognize many team and individual award winners. The following awards will be presented:

● Sportsmanship

● Blue & Gold

● Most Valuable Player

● All-Conference (First, Second, Honorable Mention) Awards

● NJISAA (Non-Public Group B - Prep) Awards

● Morris County Awards (First, Second, Honorable Mention) Awards

● All-Academic Team Awards

The Junior student-athletes will also present the Senior student-athlete with speeches and gifts at the end-of-season banquet.

The Special Athletic Awards will be presented at the End-of-Year Awards Ceremony These awards include the Senior Sportsmanship, MCSSADA Scholar-Athlete, NJSIAA Scholar-Athlete, Northwest Jersey Scholar-Athlete, Academy of Saint Elizabeth Scholar-Athletes (Grade 9-12), Four-Year Varsity, and 12-Season Student-Athlete Awards

PARENT’S ASSOCIATIONTEAM PARENTS/LIAISONS RESPONSIBILITIES:

At the beginning of each athletic season, the Director of Athletics will request two Team Parent volunteers. The Team Parents will follow the established bylaws and guidelines for creating a positive experience for every student-athlete while performing specific duties such as planning pasta parties, team-bonding activities, snacks & treat bags for away games, the senior game, and the end-of-season banquet They will work directly with the Director of Athletics to plan each event and collect Parent Dues required as boosters for each team event or activity

Senior Game:

During the season, every athletic team will host a "Senior Game" at one of their home games. The Athletics Department and AOSE’s Parents Association will present flowers to all AOSE seniors with their parents/guardians present at the beginning of the contest. Flowers will be provided for the visiting team's senior student-athletes as well The Team Parents/Liaisons are responsible for planning the events or decor for this specific game, as well as ordering the flowers A post-game celebration with snacks or treats, such as cookies or cupcakes, could also be planned to honor AOSE’s Seniors

Team Service Projects:

Every athletic team is encouraged to complete a service project that benefits the surrounding community. This service project must be completed during the months when the sport is in competition All service project ideas must be approved by the Director of Athletics

Team-Bonding Activities:

During each athletic season, it is the responsibility of the coaching staff and team parents to plan two to three pasta parties in the study hall or at the player's personal home Ice cream socials, great escape room challenges, rock-climbing or fitness experiences, and similar field trips could all be great team-bonding activities Before any team-bonding activities can take place, they must be approved by the Director of Athletics.

AOSE TEAM ISSUED EQUIPMENT AND UNIFORMS:

The Academy of Saint Elizabeth will provide team uniforms in accordance with the guidelines of the National Federation of State High School Associations. These uniforms will be purchased on a rotating basis, usually every 4-5 years, and given to each student-athlete at the start of the competition season At the end of the season, all uniform items (tops and bottoms) must be returned to the coaching staff and/or Athletics Director.

The only exceptions will be compression uniforms or segments of uniforms. These are considered personal items that must be paid for at the start of the season and retained by the student-athlete at the end of the season. Swimsuits, compression tops, compression bottoms, spandex, and other compression garments are examples of compression uniforms

AOSE will lend large pieces of equipment to student-athletes, such as field hockey and lacrosse goalkeeper equipment and softball catcher's gear. If a student wants to use her own goalkeeper or catcher's equipment, it must be NFHS-compliant At the end of the season, the loaned equipment must be returned to the coaching staff.

All AOSE-issued uniforms and equipment are the responsibility of student athletes. If uniforms or equipment are lost or damaged, the family will be charged a full replacement fee

Mandatory Warm-Ups (Jackets & Pants):

All student-athletes are required to order the AOSE school warm-up tracksuit (rival knit jacket and pants). Student-athletes are permitted to wear their warm-ups with sneakers only to school on game days and when traveling to competitions. This sharp and cohesive attire will make a bold statement about Panther athletics at school and on the road. All warm-up orders must be purchased from Alfred's Sports Shop Online Store.

TEAM SPIRIT WEAR:

AOSE student-athletes are expected to wear Academy of Saint Elizabeth gear to best represent their athletic team As the warm-ups will be worn during the school day and when traveling, a student-athlete may wear team spirit wear during downtime outside of school or after school hours. It is not permitted to wear sweatshirts, sweatpants, jackets, hats, or anything else from other high schools, colleges, teams, or organizations at practices, games, or the Academy

Every athletic season, the Athletic Panther Shop will open online, with several items suitable for these occasions available for purchase If spirit wear is unavailable, team captains should contact their coaches directly and work with the Director of Athletics to design a team t-shirt or other season-related items. Without the permission of the Director of Athletics, team parents may not create or purchase anything intended to be spirit wear

TRANSPORTATION TO AWAY CONTESTS:

The Academy of Saint Elizabeth will provide a transportation to all away contests when school is in session.

Student-athletes are prohibited to drive to offsite events. Student-athletes can leave an away event with a parent after the parent signs out their daughter with the coaching staff

When school is not in session, but there is an away game/meet, such as on a weekend or during a school break, transportation may not be provided.

When a bus is offered in an after school departure, all student-athletes must be on the bus with their team. The time spent on the bus is important team bonding time, and the coach may also use that time to discuss game strategy strategy, and everyone must be there Students may not drive themselves to away contests, unless it is a very special circumstance, as determined by the school, exist. In this event, the student's parent or legal guardian must email the Director of Athletics directly for approval.

There are some occasions when an interscholastic contest needs to begin earlier, and a team may have to be dismissed early It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to make up any missed class time or work

STUDENT-ATHLETE, PARENTS, AND SPECTATOR SPORTSMANSHIP EXPECTATIONS:

When representing the Academy of Saint Elizabeth, all individuals involved in or attending an athletic event must exhibit sportsmanship. Sportsmanship is defined as following the rules of the contest as defined or accepted by the competing teams and graciously accepting victory or defeat All participants must understand and follow the games/meets rules and regulations appropriately in order to demonstrate sportsmanship, which include, but are not limited to:

● Understanding and following the rules of the contest;

● Recognizing skilled performance of others regardless of affiliation;

● Displaying respect for all individuals participating in the athletic event;

● Treating opponents in an empathetic manner; and

● Congratulating opponents in victory or defeat

Failure to exhibit good sportsmanship includes, but is not limited to, the following student-athlete, parent, or spectator conduct:

● Any person who strikes or physically assaults an official, coach, player, or spectator

● Any person who intentionally incites participants or spectators to engage in abusive behavior

● Any person who makes obscene gestures or uses excessively provocative language or action toward officials, coaches, opponents, or spectators

● Any member of the school or athletic staff who publicly criticizes a game official or opposing coaches and/or players

● Any person who engages in behavior that demonstrates bias based on race, color, creed, religion, national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, sexual orientation or sex, social or economic status, or disability

● Any school organization, student, parent, or spectator engaging in intimidating pre-event activities, such as the use of fog machines, sirens, unusual sound effects or lighting, or similar activities

● Other conduct deemed unsportsmanlike in character by the Athletic Director

● Any violation of the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association's (NJSIAA) rules

Failure for student-athletes to exhibit good sportsmanship may result in the Academy denying the opportunity for any individual to participate in an athletic program or attend athletic events

The AOSE STUDENT-ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT:

As members of their AOSE team, student-athletes serve as role models. Many people admire and respect them, including younger athletes, and their behavior and actions have a significant impact on others in the community All student-athletes play an important role in the promotion of good sportsmanship, and she must accept the responsibility of always displaying high moral and standards of professional conduct

An AOSE Student Athlete Will:

● Accept the responsibility and privilege of positively representing their school and community by learning and demonstrating teamwork, fairness, integrity, and self-discipline in all practices, games, and/or meets

● Obtain respect for self, coaches, teammates, opponents, officials, and spectators by demonstrating and displaying good character as a positive role model

● Win and lose graciously

● Will have a thorough understanding of and adherence to all NJSIAA rules and policies

● Aways work for the good of the team

● Cheer for her teammates and opponents

● Sincerely congratulate opponents after either victory or defeat

● Refrain from using illegal or unhealthy substances to gain an unfair advantage

Per the NJSIAA, “All officials enforce all rules regarding unsportsmanlike conduct by coaches and players There will be no tolerance for any negative behavior, such as taunting, trash-talking and verbal, written, or physical conduct related to race, gender, ethnicity, disability, sexual orientation, or religion Such behavior will result in being ejected from this event and the individual player(s) will be subjected to disqualifications All participants must respect the game, respect the officials, and respect their opponents ”

Any coach or student-athlete who is disqualified from a NJSIAA event at any level cannot compete in the next two competitions Any coach and/or student-athlete who has been disqualified is not permitted to compete or travel with the team Officials must file a disqualification report within 48 hours of the event and notify the school's athletic director of the pending disqualification by 12:00 p m the following day via phone or email Once a disqualification has been filed by the official, there are no appeals

In addition, it is in the discretion of the Academy of Saint Elizabeth’s Administration to add on to this suspension or remit other disciplinary actions

THE AOSE PARENT/SPECTATOR’S CODE OF CONDUCT:

Parents must keep in mind that high school athletics are an extension of the academic program and are intended to develop a student athlete's character, values, and ethics. Parents and spectators must show positive support for the coaches, players, and officials at all AOSE athletic events

An AOSE Parent/Spectator Will:

● Respect game officials' integrity and judgment

● Be courteous to all players, coaches, officials, and spectators

● Never target anyone for physical, verbal, or emotional abuse

● Never use slurs, taunts, harassment, obscenities, or any other disrespectful language or gestures

● Always set a good example for other spectators and daughters

● Make an effort to learn and understand the game's rules

● Recognize that attending a high school sporting event is a privilege, not a right to verbally assault officials, coaches, opposing teams, or spectators

● Recognize and support either team for an outstanding performance regardless of the outcome

Officials should never interact with unsportsmanlike parents or spectators during a game or meet. Once the competition begins, the Athletic Director and/or site supervisor will monitor spectator behavior and intervene as needed if there is unruly behavior or conduct. If parents or spectators begin to use demeaning or profane language towards officials, student-athletes, or other spectators in the stands, they will be removed from the contest immediately and will not be permitted to return to the Athletic event for the remainder of the competition.

If the individual continues to exhibit the same or similar unacceptable behaviors and actions at future competitions, additional disciplinary measures, such as completing National Federation Parent/Spectator Conduct online courses or suspensions from attending games, may be enforced Upon each seasonal Athletic Registration, all parents/guardians must review and electronically sign the Parent Model Athletic Code of Conduct form

Department of Athletics Staff:

Athletic Director: Ms. Kelly Abner

Email: athletics@ aose.info

Office Phone: (973) 290-5229

Cell Phone: (973) 270-5595

Head & Assistant Coaches:

Please review all of the coaches' contact information on the AOSE website under the Athletics tab. All student-athletes, parents/guardians, and prospective recruits should communicate with the coaching staff via email. Individual teams will also be able to communicate with their Head and Assistant Coaches via their Google Classroom.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the Athletics Department.

GO PANTHERS!