MOUNT SAINT MARY’S
UNIVERSITY
2009 - 2010
STUDENT – ATHLETE
HANDBOOK
Mount Saint Mary’s University
Emmitsburg, Maryland
NCAA Division I
Northeast Conference
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Faith ~ Discovery ~ Leadership ~ Community
Athletics Department Mission Statement
The Mount Saint Mary's University Department of Intercollegiate
Athletics contributes to the complete development of students. To this
end, its programs in intercollegiate athletics are designed to enable
students to grow spiritually, intellectually, emotionally, and
athletically; to obtain a liberal arts education and complete their
degrees; to develop leadership, citizenship, and sports skills; and to
embrace sportmanship and ethical conduct in their daily lives.
The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics offers extensive and
equitable opportunities for participation in sports for men and women,
and is committed to diversity throughout the department. The
department has a role in University enrollment, public relations and
revenue generation. The coaches and administrators provide
opportunities where students, staff, and alumni come together to foster
and express loyalty and support for the University.
Administrators, faculty, coaches, and student-athletes all contribute to
student development, and the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics
promotes cooperation and communication among those constituencies
of the University in athletic matters. The department strictly adheres to
the letter and spirit of all rules and regulations of the University, all
conference affiliations, and the NCAA.
A Message From The Athletics Director:
On behalf of the Mount Saint Mary's University Intercollegiate
Athletics Administration, Coaches and Staff, I welcome all of our
student-athletes to the Mount. We look forward to getting to know you
as you strive for academic and athletic success in your career at the
Mount.
Participating in our athletics program is a privilege granted to those
students who conduct themselves with pride and integrity in the
classroom as well as on the playing field or court. As a student-athlete,
you are an official representative of Mount Saint Mary's at all times,
and we trust you with this role.
The entire Athletics Department is committed to your academic and
athletic success. But we cannot help you if you do not ask. Please
communicate with us; this handbook is one of our ways of
communicating with you about our available services. We look forward
2
to working with you in your pursuit of excellence as a student-athlete at
Mount Saint Mary's University.
Lynne Robinson, Director of Athletics
Mount Athletics – An Overview
The Mount Saint Mary's University Department of Intercollegiate
Athletics is located in the Knott Athletic Recreation Convocation
Center (ARCC), which opened in the fall of 1987. Mount Saint Mary's
is a Division I member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association
(NCAA) as well as a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC), the
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conferenc (MAAC) for men’s lacrosse, and the
Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference (ECAC). Mount Saint Mary's
currently sponsors a total of 19 varsity intercollegiate athletic teams.
There are nine sports for men (baseball, baskeball, soccer, cross
country, indoor track, outdoor track, lacrosse, golf, and tennis) and ten
sports for women (basketball, soccer, cross country, indoor track,
outdoor track, lacrosse, softball, golf, tennis, and swimming).
After many years as a highly successful NCAA Division II member,
Mount Saint Mary's moved to Division I in 1988-89. The Mount joined
the Northeast Conference in 1989, and has enjoyed much success in the
NEC since then. In 2008, both the men’s basketball team and the
baseball team won their respective Northeast Conference
Championships and advanced to the NCAA tournament! In 2008-09,
the men’s soccer team and the men’s basketball team both advanced to
their respective NEC Championship games. The 2009 men’s basketball
team was invited to play in their second straight post-season
tournament, the College Insider Tournament.
There have been many other highlights throughout the years. The
women’s tennis team won seven consecutive NEC championships from
1989 – 1995. The women’s cross country, indoor/outdoor track and
field squads set records in 1994-95, 1995-96, and 1996-97, by
sweeping the NEC titles in all three seasons.The women’s basketball
team has won three NEC titles (1993, 1994,1995); and the men’s
basketball team has won two additional titles (1995 and 1999). In 2007
the baseball team was the regular season co-champion of the Northeast
Conference. In addition, the men’s and women’s lacrosse teams have
each won MAAC championships. The women were MAAC champs in
1997 and 1998; the men in 1999, 2001, and 2003. In 2003, the men’s
lacrosse team advanced to the NCAA Division I tournament for the
first time in school history. In 2004 and 2005, the women’s lacrosse
3
team accomplished this same feat by winning the Northeast Conference
championship and advancing to the NCAA tournament. The Northeast
Conference Commissioner’s Cup, which is awarded annually to the
conference institution that fares best in the league’s championship
sports was won by Mount Saint Mary's for three consecutive years
(1995, 1996, and 1997).
Academically, Mount Saint Mary's student-athletes have excelled as
well. Many Mount student-athletes have been honored throughout the
years for their academic achievements, earning awards such as NCAA
Post-Graduate Scholarships, GTE CoSIDA Academic All-America
Awards, NEC and ECAC Scholar-Athlete Awards, NEC SAAC
Leadership positions, and NEC and MAAC Honor Rolls. In addition,
Mount Saint Mary's is proud of the outstanding graduation-rate of our
student-athletes, usually ranking the Mount in the top twenty among
NCAA Division I institutions. Excellence in academics and athletics is
a tradition that Mount Saint Mary's University seeks to continue.
Department of Intercollegiate Athletics Staff Directory
Lynne Robinson
Athletics Director
x3808
Dr. Robert Keefer
Faculty Athletics Representative
x4251
Mike Hardisky
Associate Athletics Director
x5227
Doug White
Assistant AD. for Operations
x5385
Jennifer Wivell
Director of Compliance
x6782
Eric Hansen
Head Athletic Trainer
x5386
Michelle Mallett
Assistant Athletic Trainer
x4089
Mark Vandergrift
Sports Information Director
x5384
David Musil
Asst. Sports Information Director
x5384
Pete Kerwin
Student-Athlete Support Services
x5006
Susan Baumgardner
Administrative Assistant
x5296
4
Connie Barnes
Administrative Assistant
x4805
Judy Strike
Adminstrative Assistant
x5346
Wayne Ferrebee
Athletic Fields Maintenance
x5385
Staff Directory – Head Coaches
Scott Thomson, Baseball Coach
x3806
Milan Brown, Men’s Basketball Coach
x5388
Bryan Whitten, Women’s Basketball Coach
x5390
James Stevenson, Cross Country/Track Coach
x5391
Kevin Farrell, Men’s Golf Coach
x3804
Scott Keller, Women’s Golf Coach
x3804
Tom Gravante, Men’s Lacrosse Coach
x5356
Denise Wescott, Women’s Lacrosse Coach
x3802
Rob Ryerson, Men’s Soccer Coach
x5383
Tom Gosselin, Women’s Soccer Coach
x3803
Larry Alvis, Softball Coach
x3807
Phil Hammond, Tennis Coach
x3805
Neil Yost, Swimming Coach
x5816
Cheerleading Coach, TBA
x5296
TJ Burns, Strength and Conditioning Coach
x6781
5
Where to Go For….
Student-Athlete Support Services
(Academic Support; Champs Lifeskills; Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee)
Pete Kerwin, Coordinator
x5006
Health Services/Counseling/Drug&Alcohol Education
Wellness Center
x5288
Sports Medicine Services
Eric Hansen, Head Athletic Trainer, ARCC
x5386
NCAA Rules Compliance
Jennifer Wivell, Director of Compliance,ARCC
x6782
Marketing/Promotions/Fundraising
Mike Hardisky, Asso. Athletics Director, ARCC
x5227
Operations/Facilities/Equipment
Doug White, Asst. Athletics Director, ARCC
x5385
Sports Information
Mark Vandergrift, Director, ARCC
x5384
Recreation/Intramurals/Club Sports
Matt Grimm, Intramural Sports Coordinator
x5904
Any Other Athletics Question
Lynne Robinson, Athletics Director
Knott ARCC
6
x3808
Student-Athlete Code of Conduct
It is a privilege to be a member of an athletics team at Mount Saint
Mary's University. All student-athletes involved with Mount sports
shall be expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship, honesty,
integrity, and abide by all University rules and regulations as stated in
the Student Handbook, as well as team rules and the Student-Athlete
Code of Conduct.
Inappropriate activities, such as appearing on a website (see policy
below) that brings embarrassment or a violation of institutional or team
policies to you the student-athlete, any team, or the University, or its
employees shall subject themselves or others to possible disciplinary
action.
It is the responsibility of each student-athlete, coach, or administrator to
report any alleged violation of this code or University policy as it
relates to the operation and conduct of the Intercollegiate Athletics
Department programs.
If a violation of this code occurs, there are many forms of penalties,
including a reprimand, suspension, loss of athletics scholarship aid, etc.
All persons have the right to appeal in any action before the Athletics
Appeal Committee.
Social Networking Websites Policy
Student-athletes, as members of the Mount Saint Mary’s Community,
are permitted to have profiles on social networking websites such as
Facebook and MySpace. Mount St. Mary’s student-athletes are advised
to exercise extreme caution in their use of social networking websites.
Listed below are important guidelines and reminders.

Before participating in any online community, understand that
anything posted online is available to anyone on the planet.
Any text or photo placed online is completely out of your
control the moment it is placed online – even if you limit
access to your site.

Do not post information, photos, or other items online that
could embarrass you, your team or the University. This
includes information, photos and items that may be posted by
others on your page.
7

Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site – many
people are looking to take advantage of student-athletes, while
others want to get close to student-athletes to give them a
sense of membership in the team.

Exercise caution as to what information you post on your
website about your whereabouts or plans. You could be
opening yourself up to predators such as stalkers, rapists and
thieves.

In addition to the unfortunate reality of online predators,
potential employers and internship supervisors also use these
sites to screen applicants.

The University, including coaches and administrators, has the
right to monitor these web sites.

Student-athletes may face discipline and even dismissal for
violation of the standards or philosophies of the University,
the Athletics Department and/or the NCAA.
Questions regarding acceptable content should be directed to the head
coach; the Coordinator of Student-Athlete Support Services; the
Associate Athletics Director; or Director of Athletics.
Commitment to Diversity
Mount Saint Mary's University is committed to creating an educational
environment that is free from intolerance. Intolerance refers to an
attitude, feeling or belief wherein an individual shows contempt for
other individuals or groups based on characteristics such as race,color,
national origin, gender, sexual orientation, or political or religious
beliefs. Respect for diversity is a fundamental goal of the University,
which clearly expresses this goal and emphasizes its importance
through the mission statement and all its curricular and co-curricular
activities.
Sexual Conduct
Mount Saint Mary's University will not tolerate sexual assault or abuse
such as rape or other forms of non-consensual sexual activity, such as
sexual solicitation, physical advances, sexual harassment, verbal and
non-verbal conduct that are unwelcome.These acts degrade the victims,
our campus community, and society in general.
8
Academic Integrity
Academic integrity is the pursuit of scholarly activity free from fraud
and deception and is an educational objective of the University.
Academic dishonesty includes: cheating, plagiarizing, fabricating of
information, and facilitating acts of academic dishonesty by others.
Your obligation as a student-athlete is to make satisfactory progress
towards a degree and graduate from the University. Failure to
demonstrate satisfactory progress can lead to a reduction or removal
of athletically related financial aid and/or academically related
financial aid, in addition to jeopardizing eligibility for participation in
intercollegiate athletics.
Alcohol, Drugs, Tobacco
Student-athletes are responsible for following all Federal, State,
University, and NCAA guidelines pertaining to the use of alcohol,
drugs, and tobacco. The abuse guidelines are to be considered
minimums and each coach may set higher standards for his or her team.
However, certains actions are unacceptable and will be dealt with by
the Director of Athletics. Included are the following:

Use of alcohol or drugs while driving.

Use of alcohol before or during athletic events.

Irresponsible use of alcohol or public intoxication

Use of alcohol or drugs while in the University athletic team
uniform or equipment.

Use of alcohol or drugs when hosting a prospective studentathlete.

Use of alcohol or drugs that interferes with academic success,
athletic performance, personal relationships, and finances.

Engaging in any form of activity that resembles hazing.
Sportsmanship
It is expected that all Mount Saint Mary's University student-athletes
conduct themselves with the highest level of sportsmanship. This
applies to all activities during practice, competition, and team travel.
This applies to all participants, as well as the spectators at athletic
events. The Northeast Conference addresses the subject of
9
sportsmanship with the following announcement that is read prior to all
NEC competition: “The Northeast Conference promotes good
sportmanship by student-athletes, coaches and spectators. Profanity,
racial or sexist comments or other intimidating actions directed at
officials, student-athletes, coaches or team representatives will not be
tolerated and are grounds for removal from the site of competition.”
Hazing
The University will enforce a prohibition against any form of hazing by
Mount Saint Mary's University student-athletes. Any individual or
group of individuals taking any action intentionally to produce mental
or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule, which is
not consistent with University regulations or policies, shall be subject
to disciplinary action from the University and the Athletics
Department, as well as civil action by the state of Maryland. Any teams
and/or student-athletes participating in hazing activities may be
temporarily, or permanently, suspended from athletics participation.
Communication
Each sports program will develop and communicate policies for
student-athletes, including conduct and language in the locker room,
during team travel, at practice and competition, and at other appropriate
times. Coaches and student-athletes should communicate information
to parents about team rules, strategies, saftey, schedules, travel plans,
etc. that might be useful in understanding the program in which their
son or daughter participates.
Gambling
The NCAA opposes all forms of legal and illegal sports wagering,
which has the potential to undermine the integrity of sports contests and
jeopardizes the welfare of student-athletes and the intercollegiate
athletics community. Per NCAA regulations, student-athletes shall not
participate in any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate
athletics through a bookmaker, parlay card, solicit or accepting a wager
or by providing information to individuals about intercollegiate
athletics.
Team Travel
All members of the official team travel party should display appropriate
conduct that reflects favorably when traveling. Student-athletes are
expected to adhere to team dress codes, curfew, and good behavior. All
student-athletes are expected to depart and return with their team unless
10
officially released to their parent(s), by the coach, with the proper
documentation if necessary.
Class Attendance
The value of attending every scheduled class cannot be overemphasized. Intercollegiate athletic coaches and administrators strongly
support the University policy on this subject. Faculty members are
willing to assist all students, however it is the responsibility of the
student-athlete to communicate effectively with their professors. The
first priority of a student-athlete is to be a student, and the second is be
an athlete. Classes may not be missed to participate in practice
activities.
Health/Safety/Welfare
All persons should embrace a primary concern for the health, safety,
and welfare of every participant in the Mount Saint Mary’s University
intercollegiate athletics program. Participation in athletics is contingent
upon the medical approval by the team physicians and the athletic
trainers. Student-athletes must show evidence of proper medical
insurance and provide an authentic medical history. Student-athletes are
expected to keep themselves in good physical condition and are
responsible for continued training program prescribed by the coaches
and medical staff.
Commitment to Rules Compliance
Mount Saint Mary's University administrators, coaches, staff, and
student-athletes are expected to adhere to all University, conference,
and NCAA rules and regulations. As a part of this commitment to rules
compliance, the Director of Compliance conducts monthly rules
reviews with the coaching staff. In addition, student-athletes are given
an NCAA rules summary presentation at each pre-season team
meeting. If a student-athlete has any questions regarding NCAA
regulations or concerns pertaining to possible rules violations, please
contact the Director of Compliance as soon as possible.
Athletics Appeals Committee
The Athletics Appeals Committee was formulated in June 2001 to
serve as the institutional entity to hear grievances or appeals from
student-athletes as they relate to the NCAA regulations in regards to
financial aid and transfers. Specifically, the NCAA requires that an
appeals hearing be offered, upon the request of the student-athlete, in
the following scenarios:
11
1.
NCAA Bylaw 13.1.1.3.1: Four-Year College Prospects. “If the
institution decides to deny a student-athlete’s request to permit
any other institution to contact the student-athlete about
transferring, the institution shall inform the student-athlete in
writing that he or she, upon request, shall be provided a
hearing conducted by an institutional entity or committee
outside of the athletics department. The institution shall have
reasonable procedures for promptly hearing such a request.”
2.
NCAA Bylaw 14.5.5.2.10: One-Time Transfer Exception. As
part of a student being eligible to transfer to another institution
and be immediately eligible to compete, all sections of the
one-time transfer exception must be satisfied, including part
(d): “The student’s previous institution certifies in writing that
it has no objection to the student’s being granted an exception
to the transfer residence requirement. If the student’s previous
institution denies his or her request for the release, the
institution shall inform the student-athlete in writing that he or
she, upon request, shall be provided a hearing conducted by an
institutional entity or committee outside of the athletics
department.”
3.
NCAA Bylaw 15.3.4.1.3: Gradation or Cancellation of Aid.
“Any reduction or cancellation of aid per Bylaw 15.3.4.1 is
permissible only if such action is taken for proper cause by the
regular disciplinary or financial aid authorities of the
institution and the student-athlete has been provided written
notice of an opportunity for a hearing.”
4.
NCAA Bylaw 15.3.5.1.1: Nonrenewal of Aid. “If the
institution decides not to renew or decides to reduce financial
aid for the ensuing academic year, the institution shall inform
the student-athlete that he or she, upon request, shall be
provided a hearing before the institutional agency making the
award. The institution shall have established reasonable
procedures for promptly hearing such a request and shall not
delegate the responsibility for conducting a nonrenewal
hearing to the university’s athletics department or its faculty
athletics committee. The decision to renew or not renew the
financial aid is left to the discretion of the institution, to be
determined in accordance with its normal practices with
students generally.
2009-10 Athletic Appeals Committee Membership
12
Bob Keefer, Faculty Athletics Representative
Dave Reeder, Director of Financial Aid
David Rehm, Vice President for Academic Affairs
Procedures
1.
Any student-athlete who is affected by one of the
abovementioned scenarios will be notified in writing by the
appropriate institutional authority. The notification regarding
financial aid reductions and/or cancellations will occur no
later than July 1st each year for the subsequent academic year,
but may occur earlier. Notification regarding a transfer appeal
will occur on an as needed basis throughout the academic year
and summer.
2.
In the correspondence described above, the student-athlete
will be informed that he or she may appeal the particular
financial aid or transfer decision to the Athletic Appeals
Committee. The student-athlete must request a hearing to the
Athletics Appeals Committee in writing within two weeks of
receiving the notification.
3.
Within two weeks of receiving a request for a hearing, the
members of the Athletics Appeals Committee will develop a
timeline in which to conduct the hearing. The Committee will
notify the student –athlete and the appropriate athletics
department personnel of the established timeline. The
Committee will gather the pertinent facts and meet with the
appropriate parties involved in the appeal. The committee will
notify the student-athlete and the appropriate athletics
department personnel of its decision, in writing, within two
weeks.
4.
The decision of the Athletics Appeals Committee is final.
Sexual Harassment
Mount St. Mary’s University is a Catholic University committed to
upholding standards which promote respect and human dignity in an
environment fostering learning and professionalism. Any form of
sexual harassment is a violation of these standards and a violation of
state and federal laws and will not be tolerated by the University.
The Mount Saint Mary’s University sexual harassment policy is
outlined in the Governing Documents of the University, on page 14-6.
13
Grievance procedures for allegations of sexual harassment are detailed
on pages 14-8 and 14-9 in the Governing Documents.
Conflicts between Coaches and Players
On occasion there may be internal conflicts on an intercollegiate
athletics team that arise due to the nature of the relationships between
both players and coaches. These conflicts may occur for a variety of
reasons, i.e., practice schedules, playing time, financial decisions.
There are steps in which a player can resolve these and other conflicts.
1. Address the Problem:
 Waiting for the problem to resolve itself will only
give it time to escalate. The quicker you deal with a
situation, the quicker you can get to working on a
solution. Get the problem out in the open.
2. Speak to the Player/Coach:
 Let the person know how you feel about a situation.
Take a mature attitude and resolve the problem
yourself. A personality or coaching decision
disagreement, such as playing time, is not one for
administrators to handle.
3. Find a Mediator
 If you are unable to speak with the head coach, speak
with an assistant or team captain. They can help and
comfort you with your situation.
4. Do Not Make Assumptions:
 Never assume the coach dislikes you or has
something against you.
5. Player Needs a Change:
 At times student-athletes expect their role on an
athletic team to be much greater than it actually is.
After assessing their athletic their athletic situation
they may realize that remaining at Mount Saint
Mary's is not the best decision for them. At this point
it is the athlete’s responsibility to explore other
options.
6. Keep the Problem Individual:
 Players should never involve other players with a
problem they are having with a coach. Involving
14
other players could create a hostile environment in
the long run.
7. When All Else Fails:
 Arrange to meet with an Assistant Athletics Director,
SWA, or the Director of Athletics.
Should a conflict escalate to a level where a student-athlete feels
compelled to file a grievance against a coach, the following procedures
will be followed:

Contact the Mount Saint Mary's Faculty Athletics
Representative to discuss the situation. If the next step is to
file a grievance, the FAR will convene the Student-Athlete
Grievance Committee. This committee is an ad-hoc committee
at the University. Serving on the committee will be the Faculty
Athletics Representative (Chair); one administrator and one
faculty member from the university.
Academic Policies
University Requirements
In order to graduate from Mount Saint Mary's University, a student
must earn a minimum of 120 semester hours, with a cumulative grade
point average of a least 2.00. In addition, students must complete the
courses and number of credit hours required in their academic major,
maintaining a 2.0 average in all required and elective courses; fulfill all
requirements for the liberal arts core curriculum; and be enrolled at the
University for their final two full-time semesters of credit prior to
graduation.
All students should refer to the Mount Saint Mary's University
Undergraduate Catalog for a complete listing of all courses, majors,
and academic requirements. In addition, students should check their
records periodically with their faculty advisor or with the Dean for
Academic Affairs to ensure they are in accordance with all graduation
requirements. This responsibility rests with the student.
Each faculty member has the freedom to establish a policy on grading
in each class taught. Letter grades and corresponding grade point values
per credit hour are as follows:
15
A…4.00 A-…3.67 B+…3.33 B…3.00
C…2.00 C-….1.67 D+…1.33 D…1.00
B-…2.67 C+…2.33
D-…0.67 F…0.00
Other grade classifications:
P/F….Pass/Fail
FA….Failure due to absence
W…..Withdraw
I…….Incomplete
Class Registration
Every student at Mount Saint Mary's University who plans to attend the
following semester must register for classes at the appropriate time.
Students in attendance receive first consideration for the selection of
courses for the ensuing semester. Full instructions for on-line class
registration are sent to all students each semester from the Dean for
Academic Affairs. Students are expected to abide by the registration
instructions and timelines established by the Dean.
Student-athletes register in the same manner as all students at Mount
Saint Mary's. Prior to registering for classes, it is recommended that
student-athletes consider team commitments, if possible, when
scheduling classes. Because good class attendance is essential for
academic success, it in not recommended that a student take a course
that requires more than four athletically related absences. An add/drop
period at the beginning of each semester affords students an
opportunity to adjust their schedules.
Class Attendance
Each faculty member has his or her own attendance policy, which is
explained at the start of each semester. Student-athletes are expected to
attend all possible classes. During the first week of classes each
semester, student-athletes are urged to inform their professors of team
commitments and potential scheduling conflicts with class. A studentathlete is not permitted to miss class because of a team practice
session. The only permissible time to miss class is due to a Mount Saint
Mary's intercollegiate team competition or travel to a team competition.
If class is missed, student-athletes remain responsible for all work and
assignments covered in their absence. The following Missed Class
Policy is in effect for the 2009-10 academic year.
Mount Saint Mary's University --- Missed Class Policy
16
1.
Student-athletes shall not be excused from class early or miss
class for practices.
2.
For Home competitions, student-athletes shall not miss class
prior to 1.5 hours before the scheduled competition time.
Exceptions may be negotiated for special circumstances.
3.
For Away competitions with same day travel, student-athletes
shall not miss any class prior to the scheduled time of
departure.
4.
For Away competitions with overnight travel, no team shall
depart more than 24 hours prior to the time of the competition.
Exceptions may be negotiated for special circumstances.
5.
Student-athletes are responsible for making advance and
follow-up arrangements with professors concerning missed
classes, homework, tests, quizzes, field trips, etc.
6.
The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics will, prior to the
start of each semester, provide the Dean for Academic Affairs
with a list of all competitions, and prior to each season, with
team rosters. The competitions list will include the time, date,
destination, departure time, travel time and return time. This
information will be communicated to the faculty by the
Department of Intercollegiate Athletics.
7.
Student-athletes have the right to miss a competition for
academic reasons. Coaches cannot penalize student-athletes
who do so, provided that the student-athlete has notified the
coach and taken the necessary remedial actions.
8.
Faculty members cannot penalize student-athletes for
attending their competitions, provided the student-athlete has
notified the professor and taken the necessary remedial
actions, and that excessive absences do not violate the
professor’s overall absence policy.
9.
The Dean for Academic Affairs will work with the
Department of Intercollegiate Athletics when teams qualify for
championships that interfere with final exams.
Student-Athlete Academic Responsibilities
17
 Attend every class; be on time for class; sit in front.
 Participate! Be an active learner; ask questions; get involved.
 Get to know your professor(s).Open the lines of
communication early on.
 Understand and follow class policies. Read your syllabus and
know important dates for assignments and tests.
 Study on a daily basis. Study for exams in advance. Turn in
class assignments on time.
 Do not hesitate to seek help if you are struggling
academically. Utilize the Office of Learning Services.
 Maintain academic integrity. Never misrepresent your work.
Follow all academic policies and procedures outlined in the
University catalog and student handbook.
 Honor all academic-related appointments with counselors,
tutors, advisors, faculty, and staff.
 Register for classes and housing at the proper times.
 Have a knowledge and understanding of the NCAA eligibility
requirements.
 Make satisfactory progress towards graduation each semester.
 Abide by all rules and regulations set forth in the student
handbook.
 Represent yourself, your team, and Mount Saint Mary's
University with pride and dignity.
 Keep your coach informed of academic issues that arise.
Academic Support Services
The Office of Learning Services offers a large variety of programs
designed to help students succeed in their studies. MSM studentathletes are encouraged to take advantage of these services, but are also
18
expected to be responsible for the success of their own academic
career. Learning Services provides academic guidance and study skills
training to student-athletes, including academic performance tracking,
individual study skills instruction, peer tutoring, and study halls.
Learning Services supports a fully-equipped computer lab, open for use
24 hours daily.
Mount Saint Mary's University recognizes that students with
disabilities are entitled to reasonable accomodations and appropriate
academic adjustments. Student-athletes with properly documented
disabilities should contact the Learning Services Director to discuss
their eligibility for academic accomodations.
Department of Sports Medicine/Athletic Training
Introduction
The Mount Saint Mary's University Wellness Center is the main source
of medical attention for student-athletes during the school year. It
provides outpatient health services and health education to regularly
enrolled students. The Department of Sports Medicine works in a
cooperative manner to assist with the medical needs of the studentathlete. Certified Athletic Trainers will provide student-athletes with
their health care needs and direct them to individual care if warranted.
Purpose
The Department of Sports Medicine is responsible for the prevention,
medical care, treatment, an rehabilitation of injuries incurred by all
student-athletes while participating in the Mount Saint Mary's
University Athletics Program. The philosophy of care is to treat
student-athletes and return them to participation as quickly as possible
without jeopardizing their health or further injury. This implies that
you, the student-athlete, should be taking care of yourself with regards
to nutrition, rest, and conditioning. You must report all injuries and
illnesses to the Department of Sports Medicine and keep all
appointments for treatment and rehabilitation.
Athletics Department’s Responsibility
The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is responsible for providing
medical services to student-athletes who are injured in a practice or
game occurring under a coach’s supervision. The Department of Sports
Medicine staff may administer medical aid during the student-athlete’s
academic year, but only for sports related conditions.
19
Health Insurance Coverage
All student-athletes must have their own personal health insurance
plan and coverage (this is referred to as primary insurance). A
student-athlete may be covered by their parent’s primary insurance. If
the student-athlete is not covered under their parent’s policy, or if such
primary insurance policies are restrictive to the availability of health
care while the student is attending Mount St. Mary’s, the University
student insurance policy may be purchased through the Wellness
Center. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has a
supplementary, secondary insurance policy. This supplementary,
secondary insurance policy requires that the insured studentathlete or parents must first submit the medical bills to their
primary medical or hospitalization insurance. Medical expenses for
athletically-related injuries not covered under the primary insurance,
will be paid under the University’s policy, subject to its limitations and
conditions.
Requirements for Intercollegiate Athletics Participation
Prior to participation in intercollegiate athletics all freshmen and
transfer students, as well as juniors and 5th year student-athletes, must
pass a medical physical examination. Returning juniors and 5th year
student-athletes will be notified of the dates and times for their
physicals at the start of the academic year, and the exam will be offered
free of charge. In addition to the physical examinations, all studentathletes must have the proper paperwork on file in the Department of
Sports Medicine prior to sports participation. This paperwork is
separate and in addition to the required health forms for the University
Wellness Center and is available from the Sports Medicine webpage.
The Sports Medicine Department must be notified at once if there is a
change in a student’s primary insurance plan.
Policies and Procedures
The Department of Sports Medicine/Athletics Training Room policies
and procedures are designed to serve all student-athletes in the best
possible manner and to allow them to receive the best possible care.
Please assist yourself, each other, and our Sports Medicine staff by
complying with our set policies.
 It is the responsibility of the student-athlete and/or coach to
report to the Athletic Trainer any injury or illness, no matter
how minor it may seem, and let the Athletic Trainer determine
how the treatment is to be administered.The sooner an injury
is treated, the shorter the time of recovery.
20
 Once a treatment or rehabilitation program has been
established, please follow the Athletic Trainer’s directions and
procedures until terminated by the Athletic Trainer. Studentathletes who miss treatment or rehabilitation may be held out
of practice or games by the Athletic Trainer.
 Be on time for treatment/rehabilitation appointments.
 If a physician evaluation is needed, the Sports Medicine
Department will contact and set up an appointment with the
appropriate medical physician. Non-approved medical visits
will be the financial responsibility of the student-athlete and
may result in medical eligibility being revoked until all
necessary information is obtained.
 Upon entering the Athletic Training Room, each studentathlete must sign the Daily Sign-In Sheet.
 All student-athletes must notify the Department of Sports
Medicine of any and all medications that are currently being
taken, and the reason for its use. Some prescription drugs are
banned by the NCAA and proper documentation from the
prescribing physician may be required. This is to prevent
overmedication, allergic reactions and complications
pertaining to NCAA Drug Testing Protocols.
 Do not wear cleats or spikes into the Training Room. Dress
appropriately. No profanity or horseplay. No tobacco products
permitted at any time. No food or drink.
Please make the Department of Sports Medicine aware of all of your
medical/health problems, communicate with the coaches and
physicians regarding your status and progress, and help us keep your
records up to date. If you require emergency treatment of any injury or
illness (during off-hours of the Training Room) you need not notify the
Sports Medicine staff in advance. However, notification should be
given to the Athletic Trainer as soon as possible.
Any and all personal matters will be handled with discretion,
privacy, and strict confidentiality. All medical information is
confidential unless released by the student-athlete.
21
NCAA Drug Testing Program
The NCAA has strict rules regarding the use of drugs by studentathletes. Before competing in intercollegiate athletics each year,
student-athletes must sign the NCAA Drug Testing Consent Form.
Failure to complete the form will result in immediate ineligibility. The
NCAA conducts drug tests at all NCAA Championships. The NCAA
also conducts an on-campus program each year in which studentathletes from one or more sports teams are randomly selected (by the
NCAA) to be drug tested. A positive drug test could render a studentathlete ineligible for an entire season or permanently, depending on the
circumstances. Student-athletes should consult with the Head Athletic
Trainer, who has the list of all NCAA banned substances. Certain over
the counter nutritional supplements may contain banned substances.
Always check the ingredients with the Sports Medicine staff.
Tobacco Policy
The Mount Saint Mary's University Intercollegiate Athletics
Department strictly adheres to the NCAA rule regarding the use of
tobacco products. This rule states that the use of tobacco products is
prohibited by all players, coaches, and all game personnel, in all sports
during practice and competition. Violation of this rule may lead to a
suspension of athletics activities.
Media Contact
As a student-athlete at Mount Saint Mary's University, you may have
the opportunity from time to time to deal with various members of the
news media. How you handle these encounters affects the way the
public views Mount Saint Mary's University. The Sports Information
Office handles all media relations pertaining to all Mount
intercollegiate teams. Interviews with student-athletes will be
coordinated by the Director of Sports Information. Never agree to any
interview without first consulting with the Sports Information
Director.
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is made up of
student representatives from the various intercollegiate sports teams at
Mount Saint Mary's. The purpose of SAAC is to give MSM studentathletes better representation on campus and within the Athletics
Department. SAAC has a representative on the Athletics Advisory
Board and on the Northeast Conference Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee.
22
SAAC has established bylaws and elects officers each year. The
committee meets regularly during the academic year to discuss various
topics. SAAC representatives participate in community service
activities as well as the coordinating, planning, and fundraising for the
Blue and White Sports Banquet held each May in honor of all MSM
student-athletes. For more information on the Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee, please consult your team representative, coach, or the
Advisor of SAAC.
NCAA CHAMPS/Lifeskills Program
This program was created by the NCAA to support the student
development initiatives of its member institutions and to enhance the
quality of the student-athlete experience within the University setting.
During the academic year, activities will be held which will focus on
developing and enhancing the Mount Saint Mary's University studentathlete experience within one or more of the CHAMPS/Lifeskills areas:
academics, athletics, personal development, career development, and
community service. Student-athletes from all MSM intercollegiate
sports teams are encouraged to participate. Each year, a student-athlete
representative from Mount Saint Mary's is chosen by the NCAA to
attend the annual NCAA Leadership Conference in Orlando, Florida.
Student-Athlete Exit Interviews
Exit Interviews of student-athletes are required by NCAA Constitution
6.3.2. At Mount Saint Mary's University, this process is coordinated by
the Faculty Athletics Representative. Late in the Spring Semester each
year, all senior members of MSM intercollegiate athletic teams are sent
an exit interview that is in written survey format. Students are asked to
(anonymously) complete and return the questionnaire by a specific
date, to the Faculty Athletics Representative. The results of the exit
interviews are used to assess the overall collegiate athletics experience
of MSM student-athletes.
NCAA Student Assistance Fund
The NCAA has created a Student Assistance Fund for student-athletes.
The Student Assistance Fund is intended to provide direct benefits to
student-athletes or their families as determined by the Northeast
Conference. As a guiding principle, the fund should be used to assist
student-athletes in meeting financial needs that arise in conjunction
with participation in intercollegiate athletics, enrollment in an academic
curriculum or that recognize academic achievement. This funding is
dispersed from the Northeast Conference office throughout the
academic year.
23
Permissible Uses of the Student Assistance Fund

Medical and Dental expenses NOT covered by another
insurance policy, institutional or personal. (e.g. hearing aid,
vision therapy, off-campus counseling or rehabilitation).

Costs associated with a student-athlete or family emergency.

Purchase of expendable course supplies (e.g. notebooks, pens).

Rental of non-expendable course supplies required for all
students enrolled in a course (e.g. computer equipment,
cameras, etc).

Articles of clothing/shoes and other essential expenses (not
entertainment), maximum limit of $500.00 per year.
Student-athletes are responsible for submitting all proper receipts
of expenditures. In order to comply with federal tax regulations, the
money must be recorded as income for tax purposes.
NCAA Rules and Regulations
As a member of the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA),
Mount Saint Mary's University is committed being in compliance with
the many rules and regulations of this organization. Student-athletes
must share in this responsibility. The following is a summary of some
of the rules which affect the eligibility of student-athletes. Any
questions about NCAA rules and regulations should be directed to
Jennifer Wivell, Director of Compliance (x6782).
Eligibility
A student-athlete in an NCAA Division I program has four seasons of
eligibility for intercollegiate competition in each sport and must
complete his/her seasons within five calendar years beginning with the
semester that the student first registered as a full-time student in any
collegiate institution. A year of eligibility is used as soon as an
individual takes part in any competition, including scrimmages, at any
two or four-year institution. All student-athletes must:

Maintain amateur status in order to compete.
24

Submit all required forms to the Athletic Trainer and must
receive medical clearance from the Athletic Trainer in order to
practice or compete.

Complete and sign an NCAA Student-Athlete Statement and
Drug Testing Consent Form each year. Foreign studentathletes must complete an International Student Form as well.

Maintain full-time enrollment status.

Be certified as academically eligible to compete.
Initial Eligibility
In order to practice and compete during their freshman year, all
student-athletes must be registered with, and certified as eligible, by the
NCAA Eligibility Center.
Continuing Eligibility
Subsequent to a student’s freshman year in University, NCAA
continuing eligiblity regulations go into effect. To be eligible to
compete, a student-athlete must be enrolled in at least a full-time
program of studies (not less than 12 semester hours); be considered in
good academic standing; and maintain satisfactory progress towards a
baccalaureate degree. During the first two years of collegiate
enrollment, a student-athlete may make progress toward any degree at
the University. Beginning with the student-athlete’s fifth semester,
progress must be made toward a designated degree program.
Eligibility for competition subsequent to the student-athlete’s first
academic year in residence or after the student-athlete has utilized one
season of eligibility in any sport at the University will be determined at
the beginning of the fall semester based upon (a) satisfactory
completion of at least 12 semester hours during each of the previoius
academic term or terms in which the student-athlete has been enrolled,
or (b) satisfactory completion of 24 hours of academic credit since the
beginning of the previous fall term. In addition, 75% of the hours used
to meet the satisfactory progress rule must be earned during the regular
academic year. No more than 25% of these hours can be earned during
the summer session term. In addition, all student-athletes must earn at
least 6 credits per term. If a student-athlete earns less than six credits
in a particular term, he or she is ineligible for athletics participation
the following semester.
25
A student-athlete must be in considered in good academic standing
according to standards established by the institution.A student-athlete’s
eligibility under the satisfactory progress rule will be determined on the
basis of the student’s academic record at the beginning of the Fall term.
If a student-athlete is ineligible at this time, eligibility can be
reevaluated at the beginning of the next term, based upon the student’s
completion of the necessary credit hours. Certification can then be
determined at the beginning of the next academic semester. Studentathletes must formally declare their major prior to the start of their
Junior year in University.
The fulfillment of the credit hour requirement for a student-athlete to be
eligible for competition based on the satisfactory completion of the
following:

24 semester hours of credit before the student-athlete’s second
year of collegiate enrollment.

18 of these credits must be earned during the regular
academic year.

A student-athlete must earn at least six hours per term.
Student-athletes failing to do this will automatically be
ineligible in the subsequent semester.
Student-athletes who do not meet these minimums render
themselves ineligible.
In addition, the minimum percentage of degree requirements a studentathlete must satisfy to be eligible for competition is: 40% of the degree
completed prior to the student-athlete’s third year of enrollment; 60%
of the degree completed prior to the student-athlete’s fourth year of
enrollment; and 80% of the degree completed prior to the studentathlete’s fifth year of enrollment.
The following minimum grade point averages must be earned for a
student-athlete to be eligible:

Student-athletes entering their second year of collegiate
enrollment must have at least a 1.8 cumulative grade point
average.
26

Student-athletes entering their third year of collegiate
enrollment must have at least a 1.9 cumulative grade point
average.

Student-athletes entering their fourth or subsequent year of
collegiate enrollment must have at least a 2.00 cumulative
grade point average.
Grade point averages of all student-athletes must be checked each
semester. Student-athletes who do not meet these minimums prior
to the start of each term render themselves ineligible.
Transfer Eligibility
Transferring to a Division I school usually requires a one year
residency period prior to granting eligibility for participation in
competition. There are waivers available to eliminate this requirement
(not in the sports of basketball and football), however proper
documentation must be on file in the Athletics Department before
eligibility can be established. It is the responsibility of the studentathlete to discuss his/her transfer situation with the appropriate sport
coach and the Associate Athletics Director.
Extra Benefits
Many NCAA institutions receive penalties for providing “extra
benefits” to student-athletes. An extra benefit is any special
arrangement by a University employee or representative of the school’s
athletics interests (booster), to provide a student-athlete with a benefit
not expressly stated as permissible by NCAA rules, and one that is not
generally available to all students. Student-athletes share the
responsibility of preventing such violations of NCAA regulations by
making sure that they are not the recipient of any of these extra
benefits. The following are some examples of extra benefits that are
not permissible for student-athletes to receive:

Gifts or loans of money. A coach is not permitted to lend a
student-athlete money, nor is any booster or team supporter.

Gifts of clothing or other personal items.

Long distance phone calls. Student-athletes are not permitted
to use any telephone in the Athletics Department.
27

Excessive transportation, other than team-related travel, for
which the student-athlete does not pay.

Entertainment tickets, meals at restaurants which are not
related to team travel.

The use of an automobile.
These are some of the possibilities, but there are many more. If a
certain benefit is not generally available to all students, than it would
probably be considered an extra benefit and not permissible under
NCAA legislation. Accepting an extra benefit may render a studentathlete ineligible, so when in doubt, contact the Associate Athletics
Director immediately.
You may receive an occasional family meal from an institutional staff
member or representative of athletics interests as long as the meal is
provided in the individual’s home. Meals are restricted to infrequent
and special occasions. Transportation may be provided to attend such a
meal. Institutional staff members may provide reasonable local
transportation to student-athletes on an occasional basis.
Amateur Status/Outside Competition
To remain eligible, it is important to remember not to endanger your
amateur status or violate NCAA rules regarding outside competition.
You cannot, within your sport:
o
Accept payment or a promise of payment (in cash, prizes,
gifts, or travel) for participation in your sport.
o
Enter into an agreement of any kind to compete in
professional athletics. You cannot negotiate a verbal or written
professional contract.
o
Participate on teams other than those fielded by Mount Saint
Mary's University during the academic year.
o
Participate in the sport of basketball in a summer league not
approved by the NCAA. You must have written permission to
compete in an NCAA approved summer league.
28
o
Agree to have your picture or name used to promote a
commercial product.
o
Be respresented by an agent or organization to market your
athletic skills or reputation.
o
You may not knowingly provide information to individuals
involved in organized gambling activities concerning
intercollegiate athletics; you may not solicit a bet on any team
representing the institution; you may not participate in any
gambling activity that involves intercollegiate or professional
athletics through a bookmaker, a parlay card, or any other
method employed by organized gambling.
Financial Aid
Student-athletes can receive institutional financial aid, including
athletics scholarship aid, that covers the cost of tuition, fees, room and
board, and required course-related books. NCAA regulations specify
that a student-athlete cannot accept aid beyond these costs during the
academic year, unless the student-athlete is a Pell Grant recipient.
Employment Earnings
Student-athletes are permitted to be employed during the academic
year, as well as in the summer. This employment may be on or offcampus. Student-athletes must be paid the “going rate” for this
employment. Student-athletes should complete a Student-athlete
Employment Form prior to accepting an off-campus job during the
academic year. This form can be obtained from the NCAA Compliance
Office.
Athletic Scholarships
Some student-athletes at Mount Saint Mary's University receive athletic
grant-in-aids (athletic scholarships). The awarding of these scholarships
is governed by NCAA and University regulations. Athletic scholarships
cannot be awarded for a period of more than one academic year. Per
NCAA Bylaw 15.3.3.1.1, which states: “A staff member may inform a
prospect that the Athletics Department will recommend to the financial
aid authority that the prospect’s financial aid be renewed each year for
a period of four years and may indicate that the authority has always
followed the Athletics Department recommendations in the past.
However, the prospect must be informed that renewal will not be
automatic.”
29
Athletic scholarships cannot be increased, reduced, or canceled during
the period of the award because of a student-athlete’s athletic
performance, injury, or illness. An athletics scholarship can be
reduced or canceled, during the period of the award, if a studentathlete:

Intentionally provides false information on a Letter of
Intent, admissions application, or financial aid agreement.

Fails to meet eligibility requirements.

Engages in serious misconduct.

Quits the sport for personal reasons.
NCAA legislation requires that student-athletes be notified by July 1st
of the renewal or nonrenewal of their athletics scholarship for the
upcoming academic year. If Mount Saint Mary's decides not to renew
or to reduce the financial aid of a student-athlete, the University will
inform the student-athlete in writing that he or she, upon request, will
be provided a hearing before the Athletics Appeals Committee, should
the student-athlete feel that the revocation of this aid was unfair or
unjustified.
Withdrawal or Reduction of Athletically Related Financial Aid
The following is a summary of the procedures to be followed when a
student-athlete who receives an athletic scholarship quits the team:
The student-athlete is required to submit his/her decision to withdraw
from a team in writing to the coach and/or Director of Athletics. The
coach will forward any pertinent correspondence to the Athletic
Director and the Director of Compliance.
If necessary, the Athletic Director and/or an Assistant Athletic Director
or Director of Compliance will schedule a meeting with the student.
The purpose of the meeting would be to conduct an exit interview to
ascertain the following:

Reasons for the student-athlete’s decision.

Inform the student-athlete of any NCAA regulations impacting
future athletic eligibility.
30

Inform the student-athlete of the consequences that his/her
decision has on athletically related financial aid.

Following the meeting, the student will receive formal notice
that his/her athletic aid had been discontinued, which includes,
in the case of full scholarship recipients, the return of course
related books.
In the event the student-athlete chooses not to attend the meeting with
the Athletic Director and/or the Associate Athletic Director, the
Student-Athlete Handbook will serve as his/her resource with respect to
the NCAA rules and regulations.
Procedures for Removing a Student-Athlete from a Team During
the Academic Year
Prior to removing a student-athlete from a Mount Saint Mary's
University varsity team, the following occurs:

The student-athlete is notified (by the coach) that he/she is
exhibiting behavior that does not conform to the team, Mount
Saint Mary's, Conference, or NCAA rules and regulations.

Documentation of the student-athlete’s lack of compliance
with team regulations and responsibilities is presented.
If the student-athlete chooses not to conform, the coach will then
discuss the situation with the Director of Athletics and/or the Associate
Athletic Director. The coach may dismiss the student-athlete from the
team, with the approval of the Athletic Director.
Should conditions warrant the discontinuation of the dismissed studentathlete’s athletic grant-in-aid, the Director of Financial Aid will be
informed of the decision. If the grant-in-aid is removed, a letter will be
issued to the student-athlete regarding the grant termination and his/her
right to an appeal.
Participation Limits
Your participation in athletics at Mount Saint Mary's University during
the academic year is restricted by the NCAA. Athletic activities during
he academic year is divided into two segments; playing season
activities, and out-of-season activities.
31
Playing Season: The time when the institution may conduct official
practice and competition. The season may be divided into two segments
and is limited to the following:
 Team Sports = 132 days (Baseball, softball, lacrosse, soccer)
 Individual Sports = 144 days (cross country, golf, tennis)
 Indoor/Outdoor Track = 156 days
 Basketball = The Saturday nearest October 15th to the end of
competion.
A coach may require no more than four hours a day and twenty hours
per week of your time for practice and competition. (some exceptions
exist). You must be given one day off per week.You may not miss
class for practice activities.
Out-of-Season Activities: The time during the academic year outside of
the declared playing season.
A coach may require no more that eight hours per week of your time in
supervised strength and conditioning activities. Two of the eight hours
may be spent on individual skill instruction. These workouts can
include no more than four student-athletes from the same team in one
activity, and the student-athletes must request the instruction. You must
be given two days off per week.
Eligibility and Illness, Injury Other Incapacity
A student-athlete’s illness, injury or other incapacity can, in certain
circumstances, affect his or her eligibility under NCAA regulations.
However, an injury, illness, or incapacity does not affect their athletic
scholarship, team membership, or academic enrollment; and studentathletes are not retaliated against if they are injured, ill, or otherwise
incapacitated.
Under NCAA regulations, a student-athlete is not permitted to engage
in more than four seasons of intercollegiate competition in any one
sport. A student-athlete must complete his/her four seasons of
participation within five calendar years from the beginning of the term
in which the student-athlete first registered for a minimum full-time
program of studies in a collegiate institution.. Any competition,
32
regardless of time, during a season in an intercollegiate sport
counts as a season of competition in that sport.
If an injury, illness or other cause (including a female athlete’s
pregnancy), causes the student to become physically incapacitated
outside a season of competition, the student should let your coach know
as soon as possible so he or she can plan accordingly. When a studentathlete becomes incapacitated prior to a season of competition,
pursuant to NCAA rules, that student-athlete will not be charged with a
season of competition provided that they do not engage in any
competition that season. Incapacitated players are entitled to retain their
scholarship, remain members of their team, and remain at the school,
and will not be retaliated against because of their incapacity.
Student-Athletes and Pregnancy
If a female student-athlete becomes pregnant, the student is encouraged
to notify her head coach and the head athletic trainer immediately. The
student-athlete will be advised to meet with a counselor in the Wellness
Center, who can serve as a neutral party outside of the athletics
department.
Scholarship: If a pregnant student-athlete notifies her coach and trainer
of her pregnancy, her athletics scholarship will remain in place for the
remainder of the academic year, if the student does not voluntarily
withdraw from her sport.
Training and Competing: If the student-athlete wishes to continue in
her sport, she must receive the approval of her health care professional.
NCAA regulations provide that female student-athletes who become
pregnant during their collegiate career may be granted six calendar
years in which to engage in four seasons of intercollegiate competition.
Insurance Coverage: Costs associated with a pregnancy are the
responsibility of the student and her insurance coverage. Studentathletes who become pregnant must refer to their own insurance plans
to review coverage. Students are either covered by the University
insurance or under their family insurance plan. Advice regarding
insurance coverage can be received from the Sports Medicine Office
and/or the Wellness Center at the university.
University Policies: All university policies regarding pregnancy apply
to student-athletes. Pregnant students may continue taking classes and
engage in other campus community activities. If a student chooses to
33
take a medical leave of absence with the intention of returning to
campus after delivery of the baby, such leave may be requested from
the Dean of Academic Affairs.
“Red Shirting”
The term “red shirt” actually originated on the football field. In the
past, at the beginning of each football season, coaches would decide
which student-athletes would be permitted to compete during the
season, using a year of eligibility, and which ones would only be
permitted to practice. The ones who did not compete during the season
preserved a year of eligibility. These student-athletes wore red jerseys
at practice so the coaches could easily identify which student-athletes
were not going to compete that year. To this day, a “red shirt” season
refers to a season where the student-athlete does not compete in
any intercollegiate competition because of an incapacity that has
occurred, or does not compete for other reasons.
Hardship Waiver
Student-athletes who have become incapacitated during a season of
athletic competition in which they have competed have the option of
pursuing an NCAA Hardship Waiver. When a Hardship Waiver is
granted, the student is given an additional year of eligibility.
A “Hardship” is defined by the NCAA as “an incapacity resulting from
an injury or illness” provided that the following criteria set forth by
NCAA regulations are met:

The incapacitating injury or illness occurs in one of the four
seasons of intercollegiate competition at any two-year or fouryear collegiate institution.

The injury or illness occurs prior to the completion of the first
half of the playing season that concludes with the NCAA
championship in that sport and results in incapacity to
compete for the remainder of the playing season, as verified
(in writing) by the attending physician.

The injury or illness occurs when the student-athlete has not
participated in more than two contests or dates of competition,
or 30% (whichever number is greater) of the institution’s
scheduled contests or dates of competition in his or her sport.

Only scheduled competition (excluding exhibition contests
and scrimmages) against outside participants during the
34
playing season, is countable in calculating the number of
contests or dates of competition.
All hardship waivers are processed through the Compliance Director.
Student-athletes should meet personally with the Complianc Director
or the Director of Athletics to discuss the process. As long as a studentathlete meets the criteria outlined above, a hardship waiver request can
be submitted to the Northeast Conference.
Recruiting
You may be asked to be involved in the recruiting process as a current
Mount Saint Mary’s University student-athlete. Your positive
interaction with prospective student-athletes is greatly appreciated and
it is very important to your coaches and to the Athletics Department.
Please note the following rules:
A. On Campus: A currently enrolled student-athlete is permitted
to make contact with a prospect on campus and serve as a
student host, except during recruiting “dead periods”. As a
student host of a prospect on campus for an overnight visit, all
University and NCAA rules must be followed. These will be
explained to you by your coach prior to the visit. If you
cannot abide by these rules, you should not be hosting
prospective student-athletes.
B. Off Campus: A student-athlete may not contact a prospect off
campus unless the contact is incidental. In other words, an
Athletics Department staff member cannot direct you to make
contact with the prospect, in person or by telephone.
Correspondence via letters and email, however, is permitted at
your own expense and may not be directed or paid for by the
coach.
In conclusion, there are many other NCAA rules and regulations which
govern intercollegiate athletics, in addition to the ones just summarized.
The Mount Saint Mary's University Athletics Department
administration, staff, and coaches are all commited to being in
compliance with these rules. We expect our student-athletes to do the
same. If you ever have any questions about NCAA rules, please do not
hesitate to contact the Director of Athletics or the Compliance Office.
35
Student Grade Report
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
36
Student Grade Report
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
37
Student Grade Report
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
Class: _______________
Professor: ______________
Exams
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Papers
1. Date: ______
2. Date: ______
3. Date: ______
4. Date: ______
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
Grade: ____
5.
6.
7.
8.
Date:
Date:
Date:
Date:
_____
_____
_____
_____
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
Grade:
____
____
____
____
Presentations
1. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 4. Date: _____ Grade: ____
2. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 5. Date: _____ Grade: ____
3. Date: ______ Grade: ____ 6. Date: _____ Grade: ____
38