ATHLETIC HANDBOOK
Updated August 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS Mission of the Department of Athletics Team Philosophies and League Affiliations and Guidelines Selection and Participation on Teams & Attendance Policy Hotline and Inclement Weather Equipment, Uniforms, and Practice Clothes Injuries/Illness and Medical Requirements Academic Requirements Substance Abuse Policy Individual Team Rules Social Media Policy Physical Education Classes and Exemptions Sportsmanship Statement/FAA Spectators Policy & Hazing Captains Transportation/Team Travel Student Managers Captains Council Athletics Awards Night NCAA Clearinghouse/College Guidance Holy Child Student-Athlete Code Agreement
Mission of the Department of Athletics School of the Holy Child is committed to educating young women to “meet the wants of the age,” and firmly believes that each student’s education should include physical activity and athletic competition as well as spiritual growth, academic excellence, artistic achievement and community service. Knowing one’s classmates, coaches and teachers on the field of play leads to a richer and more meaningful educational experience. The School of the Holy Child Athletic Program is dedicated to providing a competitive, yet inclusive, sports experience for every student. We believe that an effective Athletic Program is vitally important to the physical and mental health of the participants and to the overall morale and outlook of the student body. As members of the New York State Association of Independent Schools Athletics Association, School of the Holy Child embraces the NYSAISAA’s standards for a successful athletic program: COMPETENCE: A student-athlete should be competent in terms of skill development, game knowledge, strategy, fitness, conditioning and healthy behavior. CHARACTER: A student-athlete should demonstrate responsibility, accountability, dedication, trustworthiness, fair play and self-control. CIVILITY: A student-athlete should show civility toward others by exhibiting respect, fairness and caring. CITIZENSHIP: A student-athlete should demonstrate citizenship through actions demonstrating teamwork, loyalty, commitment and role modeling. Successfully achieving these goals will allow students to share life experiences that will transcend their years at Holy Child. These include sharing goals larger than oneself, cultivating habits of leadership, exhibiting modesty in victory, enduring the lessons of defeat, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However noble these goals, they cannot be achieved by the students themselves. They merit the unwavering support of the entire Holy Child community – students, faculty, administrators, trustees, alumnae and parents. Adopted by the Board of Trustees November, 2004
Varsity Philosophy Varsity teams constitute the highest level of achievement and commitment for a studentathlete at School of the Holy Child. Varsity teams are normally composed of seniors and juniors; however, sophomores and freshmen may be selected. In an effort to develop a competitive program, tryouts occur each year for all varsity teams, and team sizes are limited. While participation in contests throughout the season is desirable, playing time at the varsity level is never guaranteed. Varsity teams require a 6-day per week commitment, and may also require practices or contests during vacation periods and on weekends. The varsity coach is the leader of each team. Being prepared to win, compete and reach one’s potential are all important varsity team goals. Junior Varsity Philosophy The junior varsity program is intended for student-athletes who have the potential to develop their skills and preparing them to play at the varsity level. This program places a strong emphasis on skill development, physical conditioning, and learning the detailed elements of team strategies. Junior varsity teams compete at a high level and will balance winning and player development. When numbers warrant, selection of teams take place. Junior varsity teams primarily include freshmen and sophomores, and in some cases juniors and seniors. Development of the players is one of the primary goals, as studentathletes on the junior varsity team are preparing themselves for a varsity experience. A 6day per week schedule, weekends and/or vacation periods may be required. Thirds’ Team Philosophy When enrollment permits, a thirds program will be offered. The focus is to inculcate knowledge of the rules and skills of the game while building a team philosophy. Additional goals include: social growth, physical development, coordination, and working within a group. Coaches promote good sportsmanship. The main focus is not on winning or losing, yet the student-athletes will be exposed to a competitive balance. Coaches are instructed to make a strong effort to provide each student-athlete an equal opportunity to play in each game and contest. Student-athletes on these teams are expected to maintain a strong commitment to the program to prepare themselves for a junior varsity experience. When possible, practices and games follow the academic calendar.
Modified Sports Philosophy 7th and 8th Grade (Middle School Sports) The modified sports program is open to all 7th and 8th grade student-athletes who wish to compete. Sport offerings for the 7th and 8th grade coordinate with the sport offerings in the Upper School. The goal is to build knowledge of the game and an understanding of the team philosophy. Other goals include: social growth, physical development, and working within a group. Coaches promote good sportsmanship. The main focus is not on winning or losing yet, student-athletes will be exposed to a competitive balance. Student-athletes who sign up for modified sports are expected to maintain a strong commitment to the program (see attendance policy). Practice sessions and games are four days a week (generally speaking, practices are not scheduled on Fridays, vacation periods, or holidays.) Practices and games follow the academic calendar. 5th and 6th Grade Sports
There is one athletics offering for 5th and 6th grade students each season; 5th and 6th grade sports run with a four “play date” schedule. The 5th and 6th grade sports run as “intramurals;” the goal is to build skill and develop group interactions. Sports Offerings Fall: Varsity Soccer, Junior Varsity Soccer, Middle School Soccer, Varsity Cross Country, Middle School Cross Country, Varsity Volleyball, Junior Varsity Volleyball, Thirds Volleyball, Varsity Field Hockey, Junior Varsity Field Hockey, Middle School Field Hockey, 5th and 6th Grade Field Hockey Winter: Varsity Squash, Junior Varsity Squash, Varsity Indoor Track, Varsity Swimming, Varsity Basketball, Junior Varsity Basketball, Thirds Basketball, Middle School Basketball, and 5th and 6th Grade Basketball Spring: Varsity Track and Field, Varsity Tennis, Junior Varsity Tennis, Varsity Softball, Junior Varsity Softball, Middle School Softball, Varsity Lacrosse, Junior Varsity Lacrosse, Middle School Lacrosse, 5th and 6th Grade Lacrosse, Varsity Golf, and Junior Varsity Golf League Affiliations School of the Holy Child is a founding member of the Fairchester Athletics Association (FAA), comprised of schools within Westchester County, NY and Fairfield County, CT (Convent of the Sacred Heart, Greens Farms Academy, Greenwich Academy, Hamden Hall Country Day School, The Hopkins School, King School, The Masters School, Rye Country Day School, and St. Luke’s Academy). School of the Holy Child follows the guidelines for athletics as governed by the New York State Association of Independent Schools Athletics Association (NYSAISAA). School of the Holy Child also competes against several public high schools as a member of the Commissioner’s Regulations List of the New York State Public
High School Athletics Association (NYSHAA). In addition, School of the Holy Child is part of the New England Prep School Athletic Council (NEPSAC), for all sports. Lastly, the varsity and middle school track and field teams are associate members of the AAIS, a New York City based, all girl’s, independent school league. NYSAISAA Sports Standards Based on the NYSAIS Sports Standards, to be eligible for a sport, a student must be a Bona Fide Student, enrolled within the school, prior to the start date for that particular sports season. Transfer students may be subject to different guidelines, based on the details of the transfer. No student is eligible for sports participation if they have turned 19; prior to July 1st. Student-athletes in grades 9-12 are allowed four years to complete their athletic eligibility. The following are the New York State Association of Independent Schools Athletics Association sports standards, outlining the required minimum number of practices prior to a team or individual’s participation in a scrimmage and/or game:
Upper School
Number of practices prior to
Number of practices prior
Sport
1st Game - Team/Individual
1st scrimmage – Team/Individual
Field Hockey
8/6
10/8
Volleyball
6/4
8/6
Soccer
8/6
10/8
Cross Country
10/8
10/10
Basketball
8/6
10/8
Squash
6/4
8/6
Swimming
10/8
10/10
Indoor Track
10/8
10/10
Softball
6/4
8/6
Tennis
6/4
8/6
Golf
Training
Training
Lacrosse
8/6
10/8
Track and Field
10/8
10/10
Middle School
Number of practices prior to
Number of practices prior
Sport
1st scrimmage – Team/Individual
1st Game - Team/Individual
Field Hockey
8/6
10/8
Soccer
8/6
10/8
Cross Country
10/8
10/10
Basketball
8/6
10/8
Softball
6/4 – pitcher 6/6
8/6 – pitcher 8/8
Lacrosse
8/6
10/8
Track and Field
10/8
10/10
Selection Policy and Process In accordance with the Mission of School of the Holy Child and the Mission of the Department of Athletics, the primary goal for the Athletics Department is to allow as many student-athletes as possible to enjoy a team experience. The Department of Athletics recognizes the integrity of each sport without jeopardizing the experience within a sport. Certain sports and levels within a sport can make open enrollment difficult, and tryouts will be conducted. Cuts are only be made when time limitations, facility constraints, and team size limit the size of squads. When possible, three levels of a sport may be offered. Coaches, with the assistance of the Director of Athletics, strive to maximize the opportunities for all student-athletes. Prior to the start of each season, the Director of Athletics reviews the number of girls signed up for a particular sport, and if needed, a selection period will be posted. The entire coaching staff evaluates each student-athlete during the selection period, and that evaluation record is kept on file with the Director of Athletics. Selection of teams is completed within six practice opportunities. The Director of Athletics and the Head of the Upper School prior to any announcement, review all rosters. Please note that all Middle School student-athletes who try out for a given sport will make a team. Athletic Placement Process (8th Grade Participation on Upper School Teams) The New York State Public High School Athletics Association oversees the selection classification program, which is a process for screening student-athletes in grade 8 to determine their readiness to compete at the Upper School level. Student-athletes will be evaluated, utilizing the NYSPHSAA Physical Maturity Test on physical fitness, skill level and maturity; student-athletes must pass the NYSPHSAA physical maturity test to be eligible to participate at the Upper School level, for each sport, separately. No 8th grade student may participate on an Upper School team if a Middle School team is offered for that sport or if there is a full Upper School roster for the sport in which the Middle School student wishes to participate in. Permission for 8th grade students to participate on Upper School teams will be granted based on a number of factors (including, but not limited to the NYSPHSAA
Physical Maturity Test); the Director of Athletics and Head of the Upper School have final approval of this process. 8th grade students who wish to be selectively classified must make the varsity team to compete at the Upper School level. Sport Season Sign-ups Prior to the start of each season, student-athletes have the opportunity to sign up for a sport. School of the Holy Child makes every effort to accommodate each student who signs up for a sport. If a student-athlete does not sign-up for a sports team during the sign-up period, she forfeits her ability to play that season. Upper School students who do not compete on one of the athletic teams take regular Physical Education classes for that trimester. Middle School student-athletes are required to take Physical Education classes even if they participate on athletics teams. Dropping or Transferring Sports Generally, once a student begins a season with a sport, she should continue with that sport. Student-athletes who try a sport and wish to transfer sports may do so within the first week of the season and based on availability within the other sport. On occasion, if there is a strong reason for the athlete to drop a sport, she should consult with her coach and submit a letter of explanation to the Director of Athletics. If a student transfers to a new sport, her required number of practices will begin at zero for her new sport. Dropping a sport may jeopardize her ability to play on another team in another season. All studentathletes who drop out of a sport, without transferring to another sport, must attend Physical Education classes for the remainder of that trimester. Participation on Non-School Teams Student-athletes are permitted to participate on teams outside of School of the Holy Child. However, student-athletes must note that School of the Holy Child teams take priority over outside teams. Parents are advised to carefully monitor the time commitments of their daughter and schedule accordingly. Any missed Holy Child practices for outside teams are considered unexcused absences. School-Sponsored Program Conflicts and Early Dismissals Every effort is made to schedule athletic events outside of the school day to avoid disruption to the academic program; however, conflicts occur and student-athletes are required to make up any missed work. Early dismissal schedules are coordinated with the Head of the Upper School and/or the Head of the Middle School. Student-athletes are expected to be in class until the designated dismissal time. Participation on Two Sports during the Same Season
Student-athletes are not allowed to participate on two School of the Holy Child teams during the same athletic season. Detention If a student-athlete receives a disciplinary detention, she may not be allowed to participate in athletics (practice or game) for the day in which the detention is served. Missing a practice or game for a detention constitutes an unexcused absence. Attendance at Practices including Vacations and Holidays Coaches take attendance at each practice and game; excused and unexcused absences are reported to the Director of Athletics each week. The expectation is that student-athletes attend all practice sessions and games. More than two unexcused absences require a meeting between the student athlete and Director of Athletics. Unexcused absences affect playing time and may affect her status on the team. The Director of Athletics notifys parents, after the second unexcused absence. Student-athletes are also expected to be on time to practice sessions; continued tardiness requires a meeting with the Director of Athletics. Fall Pre-season: Upper School practices begin in the summer prior to the start of school. Pre-season practices begin in August and are required for all student-athletes who wish to participate on the varsity level. If a student-athlete misses any pre-season practices, she is automatically placed on the junior varsity team. Injured student-athletes will not be penalized, but she should still attend practices, when possible. Student-athletes and families understand the attendance policy and keep this in mind when scheduling family vacations. A student-athlete who is absent from school may not participate in athletics for that day. UPPER SCHOOL POLICY – The exception being, unless permission is granted by the Director of Athletics and Head of the Upper School (i.e. college visits, family emergency). Student-athletes who are absent on Friday may be eligible for a Saturday contest, when the Director of Athletics and Head of the Upper School grant permission. Student athletes, who are tardy from school (after 11:00 a.m.), may not participate in athletics that day, unless the Director of Athletics and Head of the Upper School grant permission. If a student-athlete has a conflict with two school-sponsored events, a discussion takes place between the Director of Athletics and moderator of the other school activity, to resolve the conflict. Parents are expected to pick up their daughters at the designated time. Parents should note that coaches are required to stay with the student-athletes until all girls are picked up. Continued late pick up may be cause for suspension from a team. Middle School Attendance Policy
Coaches will take attendance at each practice and game; excused and unexcused absences will be reported to the Director of Athletics each week. The expectation is that studentathletes attend all practice sessions and games. More than three unexcused absences will require a meeting between the student-athlete and Director of Athletics. Unexcused absences will affect playing time and may affect status on the team. The Director of Athletics will notify parents, after the third unexcused absence. Student-athletes are also expected to be on time to practice sessions; continued tardiness may also require a meeting with the Director of Athletics. Hotline and Inclement Weather 914-967-5622 The sports hotline is updated by 10:00 a.m. daily, with practice and game times. On days where weather is inclement, please consult the hotline and website, which is updated by 1:00 p.m. Contest cancellations, vary from sport to sport, and student-athletes are advised of any cancellations or practice changes during the day. Please note that it is the home school’s responsibility to cancel a game. Days when school is closed due to inclement weather, all games and practices are also cancelled. If it is raining or there is a chance for rain, student-athletes should bring sneakers as practices may take place indoors. Website Please check the website (www.holychildrye.org) prior to each season for any pertinent information. Please note that changes to schedules do take place; always consult the website for the most up-to-date schedules. Parents are encouraged to use the “alert system” on the athletics page of the Holy Child website. This allows for automatic transmission of either text messages or emails, when there is a change to the schedule. Please use the "Guide to Schedules, Alerts, and Subscriptions" on the Athletics Calendar Page of the School website to assist in the process of using the “alert system.” Post-Season Competition Some teams or individuals may be eligible for post-season competition. The final decision to participate in post-season championships will lie with the coach and the Director of Athletics. Please consult the athletics page on the school website for the dates of postseason competition which may take place on weekends, holidays, or school vacation periods. Depending on the sport and championship that a student participates in, there may be a student fee charged to the student’s account, to offset the costs associated with that championship. If such a charge occurs, parents are notified during the season. Equipment, Uniforms, and Practice Clothes Student-athletes need the following equipment for their athletic seasons. This equipment must be purchased by the student-athlete and is not issued by School of the Holy Child:
Soccer: certified shin guards Field Hockey: certified goggles, certified shin guards, mouth guard, stick Squash: racquet, certified protective eye wear, court shoes Swimming: swim caps, bathing suit, goggles Lacrosse: certified goggles, mouth guard, stick Softball: glove Tennis: racquet, tennis shoes Golf: clubs, golf shoes, golf attire Student-athletes need to put their name on all of their equipment, in case their equipment becomes misplaced. For games and matches, student-athletes are either issued uniforms from the Department of Athletics or purchase certain uniform pieces. Student-athletes are expected to wash and clean their uniforms after each contest. Student-athletes who are issued uniforms from the Department of Athletics must return them in good condition. Student-athletes or parents, without the written permission of the Head of School cannot use the Holy Child logo or name. Student-athletes and parents may purchase additional team items, outside of the required athletics uniforms. All additional apparel must be approved by the Director of Athletics and ordered through the Department of Athletics. All orders must take place within the first two weeks of teams being selected and the order must not exceed $75 per season. Students are billed for the additional items, through their school account. For safety reasons, student-athletes are not permitted to use their own protective equipment (i.e.: helmet, catcher’s equipment, goal keeper equipment, etc.), unless it has received inspection and certification from a recognized equipment company. Students are expected to use the protective equipment provided by the School. All other personal equipment that a student may use for their sport (i.e.: stick, glove, goggles, bat, etc.) must meet the requirements as set forth by the FAA, NYSAIS, NEPSAC, and other governing bodies. Health and Safety Dietary Supplements All student-athletes and their parents/guardians should consult with their physicians before taking any supplement products. In addition, coaches and staff do not recommend or supply any supplement product to student-athletes. Assumption of Risk
Even though all precautions and all preventative measures are taken, injuries can occur. Severe injury is rare at school-sponsored and supervised events, parents and studentathletes need to be clear on all of the possibilities that exist. School of the Holy Child is committed to providing a safe environment that fosters the physical well being of all student-athletes. Athletic Training Policy on Injuries Occurring “Out of Season” The athletic trainer is required to treat all injuries sustained by a student-athlete while playing on a School of the Holy Child athletic team. The athletic trainer cannot treat any Holy Child student (including current “out of season” student-athletes) who has sustained an injury during a non-school related activity. Any student injured during a non-school related activity is required to seek outside medical attention (hospital, pediatrician, etc.). The athletic trainer does reserve the right to evaluate an “in-season” athlete who sustained injury during a non-Holy Child school activity and determine whether the athlete needs to seek out further medical attention for said injury; if the injury is hindering their ability to play their Holy Child sport. Any student injured during regular school hours is required to report to the school nurse for further evaluation. If said injury occurs during physical education class after 2:30 p.m., the athletic trainer or the school nurse may evaluate the student. Injuries and Medical Requirements/ Student-Athlete Return to Play Policy It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to report any and all injuries/illnesses to her coach and the certified athletic trainer (ATC). It is important that each student-athlete reports her injury at the time of occurrence; “playing through pain,” is never advised. In fact, early diagnosis and treatment can often safely accelerate a student-athlete’s return to play. The student-athlete’s health and safety are placed before any other external factors (i.e.: I need to play to help us win). The ATC has the final say as to whether a player may continue participation during practice or a match. If the injury requires medical attention by a doctor or treatment center, the coach and the ATC must complete an injury report. Student-athletes who seek medical treatment must obtain a doctor’s note, clearing them for participation, before they will be allowed to return to team play. All student-athletes are required to have a current sports physical form (which is mailed home or can be downloaded from the HC website) on file with the nurse, prior to participation in athletics. Student-athletes who do not have a completed sports physical form on file receive an unexcused absence for each day missed. To avoid jeopardizing their participation in the fall, forms must be returned to the nurse during the summer. If a student-athlete has had a physical within the last 12 months, that physical will suffice until the end of that athletic season. When a physical “runs out” during a season, a new sports physical form must be on file, prior to a student-athlete’s participation in the next season.
In addition, all student-athletes must complete and return an Emergency Contact and Information Form prior to the beginning of the next fall season. In addition to the sports physical, prior to the start of each athletic season, each student-athlete must have on file, with the nurse, an interim sports form, signed by a parent or guardian. Head Injury Policy Before the start of each season (or as needed), all student-athletes are given the ImPACT test, a neurological baseline test, which helps determine when a student-athlete is able to “return to play,” after a student-athlete sustains a head injury. For more information about the ImPACT test, go to: www.impacttest.com. If a student-athlete incurs a head injury, the ATC will evaluate the severity of the injury. In all cases, the ATC or school nurse contacts the parents and requests that a physician evaluate the student-athlete. Only when the student-athlete receives written clearance from a doctor, the ATC re-administers the ImPACT test. The ATC and neuropsychologist contracted through Holy Child interprets the ImPACT results. If a “passing score” on the ImPACT test is not achieved by the student-athlete (based on the guidelines provided by the ImPACT test), the student-athlete is held out of play. In such cases, the ATC or our school nurse calls the student-athlete’s parents and explain the discrepancy between with pre- and post ImPACT tests. In addition to the ImPACT test, the athlete is taken through an exertion test administered by the ATC. This test will entail some light jogging, sprinting, pushups and sit-ups. If any signs or symptoms of a concussion return after the exertion the athlete is held out of play. Once both their physician and the ATC clear an athlete for activity, the student-athlete must participate in practices before returning to games or competition. Here is the return-toplay progression: Day 1 – Low impact, non-strenuous activity, such as walking or riding a stationary bike. Day 2 – Higher impact, higher exertion, and moderate aerobic activity, such as running or jumping rope. Day 3 – Sport specific non-contact activity. Low resistance weight training with a spotter can be completed. Day 4 – Sport specific activity, non-contact drills. Day 5 – Full contact training drills and intense aerobic activity. Day 6 – Return to full activities without restrictions. The ATC will monitor the athlete throughout this process. School of the Holy Child Weather Safety Policy Heat Policy During warm weather, ensuring that all student-athletes are safe is important in the prevention of heat related injuries. School of the Holy Child and the Department of Athletics
is dedicated to the prevention of heat related injuries (i.e.: heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, etc.) and abide by NYSPHSAA heat guidelines and the National Athletic Trainers’ Association guidelines for heat acclimatization. Fall Practice Guidelines During the first five days of practice in the fall, student-athletes may not participate in more than one practice per day. Total practice time should not exceed three hours per day during this period; in addition to the three hours of practice time, a one hour walk-through is allowed. However, for every hour practiced, a one hour cool down and recovery period must be implemented between the practice and walk through (i.e.: two hour practice = two hour cool down and recovery period). During the first two days of preseason full protective gear are not worn for field hockey goal keepers (leg pads are ok). Days three through six field hockey goalies are allowed to wear full protective equipment. Days six through fourteen, double sessions are permitted, with the modification that double sessions are only permitted every other day. During days six to fourteen the total practice time for the day should not exceed five hours and each practice is not allowed to exceed three hours. A cool down and recovery period of one hour for every hour of practice will be implemented. An ATC must be on site during all practices. The ATC reserves the right to make stricter modifications that are geared toward student-athlete safety and health while exercising in the heat. Daily Heat guidelines Each day, one hour prior to an athletic contest or practice, the ATC uses the accuweather.com website to check both the ambient air temperature and the real feel temperature (heat index) for the zip code associated with the contest or practice; including away games. The accuweather.com website gives the current air temperature and the real feel temperature (heat index) for that zip code. If the real feel temperature (heat index) is 90 degrees Fahrenheit or above, the certified athletic trainer rechecks the real feel temperature (heat index) at halftime or midway point of the contest. If the real feel temperature (heat index) is 96 degrees Fahrenheit or more, the contest is suspended. Please see the guidelines below for the recommended modifications to practices or games for conditions of 90 degrees or higher. Different playing surfaces (i.e.: field turf, grass, concrete, etc.) radiate heat differently and can cause higher temperatures and heat indexes. In addition to the accuweather.com, the ATC uses a digital psychrometer, to check the heat index for each practice or contest location on the Holy Child campus. The digital psychrometer takes readings of the wet bulb temperature, dry bulb globe temperature, relative humidity, and ambient temperature. Practices may be altered slightly in time or location based on these values. Each school in the Fairchester Athletic Association (FAA) will establish their own school guidelines for exercising in the heat. Decisions if games are suspended or changed, due to
the weather, always defer to the more restrictive heat guideline. When a contest is scheduled in Connecticut and a New York state FAA school is involved the NYSPHSAA guidelines will be followed using the accuweather.com website. An ATC must be available during all home practices or games for Holy Child. The certified athletic trainer reserves the right to make stricter modifications, geared toward studentathlete safety and health, while exercising in the heat.
Cold Weather During cold weather months ensuring student-athlete safety is paramount. School of Holy Child and the Department of Athletics is dedicated in the prevention of cold weather injuries (i.e.: hypothermia, frostbite, etc.) and abides by NYSPHSAA guidelines for cold weather. Each day, one hour prior to an athletic contest or practice the ATC uses the accuweather.com website to check both the ambient air temperature and the real feel temperature (wind chill). The ATC will put the zip code for the location of each practice or
contest being held that day. The accuweather.com website gives the current air temperature and the real feel temperature. If the real feel temperature is 10 degrees Fahrenheit or below the certified athletic trainer will recheck the real feel temperature at halftime or the midway point of the contest or practice. If the real feel temperature is -11 degrees Fahrenheit or lower the contest or practice is suspended or moved inside. Please refer to the following chart for further guidelines while exercising in the cold:
An ATC must be available during all home practices or games for Holy Child. The certified athletic trainer reserves the right to make stricter modifications that are geared towards student-athlete safety and health while exercising in the cold. Thunder and Lightning School of the Holy Child is committed to ensuring the safety of all players, coaches, officials and spectators during inclement weather. In the event of thunder and/or lightning, all outdoor practices or contests is suspended. The occurrence of thunder and/or lightning is not subject to interpretation or discussion. When thunder is heard or lightning is seen all players, coaches, officials, spectators, etc., immediately seek shelter in either a building or vehicle with a solid metal top (i.e. car, van, bus). No one shall be permitted to seek shelter under a tree. Everyone should stand clear of poles, antennas, towers, and underground watering systems. Athletic practices or contests do not resume until 30 minutes after the last boom is heard or strike is seen. The ATC monitors this process to determine when it is safe for activity to resume.
Important Contact Information Athletic Trainer School Nurse Rebecca Canetti Gina Romeo 717-304-2826 (cell) 914-967-5622, x217 r.canetti@holychildrye.org g.romeo@holychildrye.org Academic Requirements All student-athletes are expected to maintain good academic standing throughout the academic year. Any student-athlete in academic jeopardy meets with the Director of Athletics and Head of the Upper School or Head of the Middle School, to determine future steps which may include: progress reports, meeting with the school learning specialist, or loss of senior privileges. Only through strict adherence to the academic plan will the student-athlete be allowed to continue with her athletic participation. Substance Abuse Policy The following statement is taken from the alcohol and drug policy found in the School of the Holy Child Student-Parent Handbook: “Any sports team member found consuming or possessing drugs or alcohol, or under the influence on our campus, or behaving in a manner that brings public disgrace to the school will be disciplined up to and including removal from the team for the remainder of the season.� Individual Team Rules Coaches may establish team rules, which, if different from those discussed in this handbook, must be approved by the Director of Athletics and distributed to all team members. These rules are on file with the Director of Athletics; failure to adhere to these rules are considered athletic code violations. Social Media Policy Students and parents are encouraged to act responsibly when it comes to social media. Students are encouraged to post pictures and words that represent themselves and the school in a positive manner. Cyber bullying will not be tolerated. Students and parents are also encouraged to follow the school and athletic instagram, facebook and twitter accounts. Communicating Concerns Participation in athletics provides student-athletes and their coaches with some of the most satisfying, rewarding and memorable experiences of their lives. It is our hope that each student-athlete has an enjoyable athletic experience. However, due to the competitive nature of sports and the necessity of putting team needs ahead of individual desires,
student-athletes and parents sometimes find that things are not working out as they had hoped. It is important that all student-athletes and parents communicate their concerns in a timely, respectful manner to either the coach or Director of Athletics. It is not uncommon for the majority of concerns to be revolved around playing time. There should be no issues with playing time at the 5th and 6th grade, middle school, thirds or junior varsity levels; all of the girls should play at this level. If a student-athlete is not playing at this level, please contact the Director of Athletics immediately. Playing time at the varsity level is not guaranteed. It is not something that should be discussed; especially on the field or after a game. Factors that affect playing time at the varsity level include, but not limited to talent level, fitness level, performance level, practice attendance/tardiness, attitude, match-ups, tactical decisions and behavior that is detrimental to the team of reputation of School of the Holy Child. Please follow the following steps when there are concerns about a team or sport: 1. Parents should encourage their daughters to initiate contact with the coach or coaches and communicate any issues or problems. 2. If the student-athlete or their parents are still unclear or aggrieved after speaking with the coach, they are encouraged to contact the Director of Athletics. 3. Please note that the following items are not open for discussion with the coach or Director of Athletics: playing time, team tactics, or the role and playing time of other student-athletes on the team. Please note that you can find contact information for the Department of Athletics staff on the School website. Physical Education (PE) Classes and Exemptions New York State requires that all student-athletes participate in regular PE classes throughout the academic year. Upper School student-athletes may be granted exemptions from the PE requirement for the trimester in which they are competing within an interscholastic sport at School of the Holy Child. Student-athletes, who compete in an activity outside of school, may also apply for a waiver of the PE requirement. The waiver must be submitted within the first two weeks of the trimester in which a student would like to be exempt. PE exemptions are granted on a case-by-case basis. Students may also be exempted from PE classes for medical reasons. No Middle School student can be exempted from PE classes. Parents and student-athletes should use the following guidelines, when applying for an exemption from a PE class. A. The activity that is replacing the physical education class needs to be comparable to participation on a Holy Child athletic team. B. The student-athlete must compete in the activity. C. The activity must be an organized class or team. D. Student-athletes are required to attend PE classes until the exemption is approved.
E. Student-athletes are required to attend PE classes during any trimester where an exemption is not granted. Sportsmanship Statement Sportsmanship is one of the cornerstones to the Department of Athletics. In the 2006-2007, 2007-2008 and 2011-2012 athletic seasons, School of the Holy Child has won the prestigious, Fairchester Athletics Association, Allen D. Hall Sportsmanship Award. The Allen D. Hall Sportsmanship Award is given annually to the FAA Core Member School who received the highest cumulative score on evaluations by FAA coaches. The evaluations are based on the sportsmanship exhibited by the players, coaches and fans in each FAA sport the school competes in. There will be one winner for each sport and gender in the Fairchester Athletic Association. In addition to the FAA guidelines listed below, School of the Holy Child requests the following from spectators: 1. The ultimate goal of interscholastic athletics is to provide an enjoyable experience for all student-athletes. Participation in athletics helps to promote good citizenship, fair play, respect and responsible behavior. We expect all spectators to be positive role models. All spectators will encourage sportsmanship, by demonstrating positive support for players, coaches, officials and other spectators. 2. As a spectator, please respect the officials and refrain from addressing them or question their decisions. 3. As a spectator, please support the coaches by trusting their judgment and integrity. Respect their decisions and encourage open communication between the coach and your daughter. 4. I understand that those who do not follow the FAA Guidelines or the guidelines set by School of the Holy Child will be asked to leave the athletic contest. In addition, gross misconduct by a spectator may require a meeting with the Head of the School or Head of the Division, and may result in permanent ban from athletic contests. FAA Spectators Policy The Fairchester Athletic Association is a group of Independent Schools that share similar educational missions and athletic philosophies. The association aspires to hold studentathletes, teachers, and alumnae and parents to standards of behavior that reflect the very highest values in society. Athletic competition should be a forum to model these behaviors and should serve the broader purpose of education in our schools. The Association is committed to providing student-athletes with a full, rich athletic program. Important lessons are taught through athletic participation. Games and practices are “classrooms� in which our coaches can teach many lessons. The Association acknowledges that athletics and coaches, as well as spectators can, on occasion, be caught up in the intensity of a particular game or match. This should never be an excuse for irresponsible behavior. Just as good schools expect civility and self-control in the
classroom, the same must apply to athletic contests. Sportsmanship, civility and healthy competition must be an Association priority. With these priorities in mind, the Fairchester Athletic Association has established the following guidelines that govern spectator behavior at all athletic events: A. It will be the responsibility of a host and its head to insure adequate faculty supervision at each contest: a faculty member’s not involved in coaching the game. If possible, there should be an adult timer at each home game. B. The Head of each School (or his/her delegate) will speak to the full faculty and studentathlete bodies about sportsmanship and spectator responsibilities at the start of each athletic season. C. For player, coaches and fans: Ejection for unsportsmanlike conduct or flagrant misconduct will result in suspension for the next game. The suspended player, coach or fan will not be allowed to attend the game for which he or she has been suspended. Suspension during the last game of the season will carry over to the following season. D. Spectators will watch games only from those areas defined by each school as spectator areas. E. Use of alcohol, tobacco or drugs at athletic contests will not be tolerated. F. Spectators must not: • Run up and down the sidelines • Call players, coaches or officials in an unsportsmanlike manner • Go onto the field of play • Stand near opposing teams for the purpose of taunting or heckling • Engage in cheers that are profane or mocking • Deface, destroy or remove property • Directly coach a player by shouting playing instructions, etc. Spectators who abuse the above guidelines may be asked to leave the game, be subject to further school action, and may also cause the game to be forfeited on the grounds of unsportsmanlike conduct. Spectator buses will have faculty chaperones that will be responsible for the behavior of the student-athletes both on the bus and at the athletic contest. The Association expects that all school constituencies will join in strengthening the commitment to use athletics to further our educational goals. The Association views these guidelines as essential to the teaching and learning aspects of school life. Hazing School of the Holy Child does not allow any intimidating or inappropriate behavior, considered hazing. Hazing is defined as any form or type of physical, verbal, and/or emotional mistreatment, abuse, or harassment of a student-athlete in connection with a student-athlete’s participation (or lack of participation) or membership on an athletic team. Participation in illegal or inappropriate activities, forced or otherwise, in connection with team membership is also considered hazing. Any activity or behavior considered
hazing should be reported to the Director of Athletics and is reviewed by both the Director of Athletics and the Head of the Upper School. Any student-athlete found to be hazing may be suspended, dismissed from school, and/or dismissed from all athletic teams. In addition, any incident of hazing can constitute a criminal violation and may be punishable by state or federal law. Captains Seniors are selected whenever possible, at times a deserving underclassman may hold the position of captain. Each varsity team member gets to vote for captains; the final decision for captain rests between the coach, the Director of Athletics, and the Head of the Upper School. Team captains are expected to: 1. Be a dedicated student-athlete. 2. Be a positive influence; leading by example. 3. Act as an appropriate role model, uphold value of sportsmanship, encouraging teammates, and program. 4. Be an effective communicator able to represent the teams concerns or issues. 5. Support the coaches and the program Transportation and Team Travel Except for extraordinary circumstances, all students are expected to travel with their team. Should there be a situation requiring a student to drive herself, the parent must provide written permission and consult with the coach and Director of Athletics. If permission is granted, the student-athlete cannot drive any other student-athlete. Student Managers Students may have an opportunity to be student managers for Upper School and/or Middle School teams, performing duties at practices and games. The coach and the Department of Athletics will determine tasks. Student managers are exempted from PE class for the trimester that they are a team manager. The Director of Athletics approves all managers. Athletics Honors and Awards Night Each season, the Department of Athletics holds an Upper School Athletics Honors and Awards Night. All student-athletes are expected to attend the ceremony and parents are invited. Each varsity coach names the recipient of their “Most Improved Player”, a “Most Valuable Player” and a “Coaches’ Award.” All players will receive a participation award. Each Junior Varsity and Thirds team coach names the recipient of their “Most Improved Player” and a “Coaches’ Award.” The Fairchester Athletics Association names their All-League Selections at the conclusion of each sports season. Additionally, the FAA names the recipients of the Scholar-Athlete
Awards. The honorees will be recognized at the season awards ceremonies or at the academic award ceremony in June. For sports with a varsity and a junior varsity team, each varsity team member receives a varsity letter. For sports with one varsity team, a varsity letter is given to each varsity team member must compete in one more than half of the completed varsity contests within a given season. NCAA Clearinghouse/College Guidance School of the Holy Child is committed to assisting student-athletes in their search to find a college/university to further their desire to participate in college athletics. Student-athletes who wish to participate in college athletics should meet with the Director of Athletics and Director of College Counseling at the end of sophomore year. A specific recruiting program is set up for each individual, based on several factors (athletic skill level, academic interests, standardized test scores, etc.). School of the Holy Child cannot predict the results, gauge the accuracy, or assess the knowledge regarding guidance for student-athletes that follow a program from an outside coach or consultant. The NCAA Eligibility Center is an organization established to standardize eligibility for college athletics. The focus of the NCAA Eligibility Center is to certify student-athletes for participation in athletics for those wishing to attend Division I or Division II NCAA member institutions. For more information on the NCAA Eligibility Center, please go to www.eligibilitycenter.org. Holy Child Student-Athlete Code Agreement By participating in a sport at Holy Child, my daughter agrees to the following: 1. I have read and understand the Athletic Student-athlete and Parent Handbook. 2. I understand and will be responsible for participating and representing School of the Holy Child in interscholastic competition. 3. I have read and understand the School of the Holy Child’s policy on substance abuse. Should I choose to use an illegal substance, I understand and will accept the consequences outlined in the School of the Holy Child Student/Parent Handbook. 4. I support the ideal of good sportsmanship and fair play and agree to adhere to the Fairchester Athletic Association’s Sportsmanship Policy. I will strive to play well and fairly, and I will appreciate the efforts of both my opponents and my teammates. 5. I agree to attend all practices and games. I agree to communicate with my coach and the Director of Athletics regarding potential conflicts for practice and games. I understand that some practice and game sessions may occur during vacation periods, and I agree to attend all such sessions (Varsity and Junior Varsity). I understand that unexcused absences from such practices will affect my playing time.
6. I agree to effectively communicate with my coach if I have questions concerning team policies, disciplinary actions, playing time, expectations or any other issue pertaining to my participation on the team. 7. I agree to care for and maintain the equipment and apparel issued to me by School of the Holy Child. I accept my responsibility to return all school property in good condition. I understand that I am financially responsible for lost and damaged equipment and apparel. 8. I understand the severity of concussions and will alert my coach or certified athletic trainer if I feel I have any symptoms of a concussion. I have read the Concussion Information Sheet posted on Holy Child’s website as well as concussion information provided on the NYSED and DOH website.