EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL Student Athlete Handbook Athletic Coordinator: Frank Cipolla STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK TABLE OF CONTENTS Mission of Statement/Acknowledgements .....................................................3 Introduction................................................................................................4 Philosophy ..................................................................................................5 Expectations of Athletes ..............................................................................6 Expectations of Parents ...............................................................................7 Expectations of Spectators...........................................................................7 Description of Program ................................................................................8 Varsity Athletics ......................................................................................8 Junior Varsity Athletics ............................................................................8 Freshmen Athletics .................................................................................8 Program Offerings .......................................................................................9 C.I.A.C. Eligibility Rules ...............................................................................10 EHHS Eligibility Rules/C Rule Policy ..............................................................13 Academic Probation ...............................................................................14 Participation ..........................................................................................14 Tryouts .................................................................................................14 Team Limitations ...................................................................................14 Length of Season ...................................................................................16 Athletic Department Policies .......................................................................17 Awards..................................................................................................17 Awards Requirements ............................................................................17 Team Captains ......................................................................................17 Attendance ............................................................................................17 Dress Code............................................................................................18 Athletic Code of Conduct ........................................................................18 Suspension or Dismissal From Team .......................................................19 Additional Team/Sport Regulations .........................................................19 Fighting ...............................................................................................19 Mood Altering Chemical Use ...................................................................20 Performance Enhancers ........................................................................20 Travel ...................................................................................................20 C.I.A.C./S.C.C. Ejection Policy .................................................................21 “Captain’s Practice” .................................................................................21 Hazing / Initiations and Bullying .............................................................21 Athletic Department Information/Requirements ............................................22 Permission Form .....................................................................................22 Physical Examinations .............................................................................22 Injuries & Accident Forms .......................................................................22 Insurance Coverage ................................................................................22 Uniforms and Equipment .........................................................................23 Lockers and Locker Rooms ......................................................................23 Procedure for Contacting Athletic Department Personnel ...............................24 NCAA Clearinghouse.................................................... ...............................25 Social Media.................................................... ...........................................26 Forms ........................................................................................................28 EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 2 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK East Hartford High School Mission Statement East Hartford High School brings together a diverse community in a safe, respectful environment where students begin the path to success in college and careers, build on their skills and talents, and become informed responsible citizens. East Hartford Public Schools Superintendent of Schools Nathan Quesnel Assistant Superintendent Debbie Kaprove Director of Human Resources Christopher Wethje East Hartford High School Principal Matthew Ryan First Assistant Principal John Fote Assistant Principal David DeCarli Assistant Principal Michelle Marion Assistant Principal Allison Anderson Coordinator of Athletics Frank Cipolla www.easthartford.org Athletic Department Hours 7:15AM – 2:45PM Mrs. Bonita Harris, Athletic Department Secretary Frank Cipolla Athletic Coordinator Cipolla.fj@easthartford.org X5236 EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 3 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK INTRODUCTION Athletics at East Hartford High School is an integral part of our school's educational programming. Interscholastic competition provides students with physical, mental and emotional experiences which benefit not only the individual but the school and the community as well. Our student-athletes have an opportunity to develop personal qualities such as self-discipline, self-esteem, commitment and loyalty. It is our responsibility as coaches to promote these principles through our athletics programs. These lessons will serve as valuable resources for student development and becomes an integral component of a students’ educational process. Incorporating a stress on academic accomplishment and civic involvement will allow our student athletes to maximize their experiences throughout their four years. An East Hartford High School student athlete is someone of high moral character with a genuine work ethic. They contribute to a team in many different roles and always strive for improvement and efficient execution of skills, in practice as well as in competition. Coaches serve as essential components in the development of the student athlete on and off the playing surface. As a coach, it is imperative to serve as a mentor, role model, teacher, and positive influence on students. In order to be successful we must work together to cultivate this environment of cohesiveness, and commit to supporting each other as professionals and leaders. All student-athletes are governed by regulations formulated by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (C.I.A.C.) in which all Connecticut high schools hold membership. The C.I.A.C. organization insures standardized and fair regulations for which all schools must follow. Athletic activities in the East Hartford high schools are further governed by their membership in the Central Connecticut Conference. Compete Hard! Play Fair! Have Fun! Let’s Go Hornets! Frank Cipolla Director of Athletics ATHLETIC MISSION STATEMENT The East Hartford Public Schools Athletic Department is committed to providing a respectful athletic environment where student-athletes begin and build upon skills and talents that make one successful in our EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 4 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK global society. Students will be afforded the opportunity to develop as a complete and total individual as well as become respectful and committed citizens. Interscholastic Athletics are an integral component of the educational philosophy of East Hartford Public Schools. Students will be able to display talents, establish a sense of pride for their school and community, and acquire skills that promote lifelong values. It is the goal of East Hartford Athletics to continue developing responsible and successful student athletes on and off the field of play. Beliefs: Athletics teaches and promotes values for a lifetime. Athletics contributes positively to the overall climate of the schools and community. Participation in athletics develops respect for others and confidence in oneself. Participation in athletics fosters positive growth and development. The athletic program offers an equal opportunity for participation for all students who meet eligibility requirements. Participation in athletics promotes personal improvement and excellence. Participation in athletics fosters fitness, good personal habits, and exemplary behavior. Participation in athletics is a privilege. Goals: 1. To create an atmosphere that will promote good sportsmanship and the overall value of sport. 2. To provide opportunities for students that will enhance physical and emotional development. 3. To provide opportunities that will engender a positive self-image. 4. To promote and nurture good citizenship. 5. To foster social sensibility and moral responsibility. 6. To contribute to the participant’s growth in physical fitness, skill acquisition, emotional maturity, and social interaction. 7. To provide a well-planned and well-balanced program of interscholastic athletics for as many secondary school students as possible. 8. To sponsor a wide variety of interscholastic sports in each of the three sport seasons for all students. 9. To maintain a high standard of credible and positive performance and conduct on and off the field. 10. To provide high quality leadership for all athletic programs so as to exemplify to student’s a desired behavior to be developed from each athletic program. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 5 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EXPECTATIONS OF ATHLETES Play the game for fun. Be gracious when you win & graceful when you lose. Respect and abide by the rule of the game. Respect decisions made by contest officials. Put the team ahead of yourself in every situation. Accept decisions made by those in authority. Demonstrate respect to your opponents, coaches and teammates. Be accountable for your own actions. Develop a teachable spirit that allows you to take correction as a compliment. Accept and embrace the discipline involved in athletics, because it benefits the team. Develop the feeling of pride, based upon “shared joy” of the team, and do not have pride that emanates from arrogance or a sense of entitlement. Accept the results of each game; No excuses. WAYS OUR STUDENT-ATHLETES CAN PROMOTE GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP Exhibit spirit of benevolence and genuine concern for the opponent. Accept the results gracefully and act fairly and courteous at all times Maintain self-control in all circumstances. Applaud during the introduction of players, coaches, and officials. Accept all decisions of officials. Shake hands between participants and coaches at end of contest, regardless of outcome. Treat competition as a game, not a war by always keeping contest in perspective. Coaches and players should seek out opposing studentathletes and coaches to recognize them for outstanding performances. Applaud at the end of contests for performances for all participants. Everyone should show concern for injured players, regardless of team. Encourage surrounding people to display only good sportsmanship conduct. EXPECTATIONS OF PARENTS Attend as many games as possible. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 6 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK Do everything possible to make the athletic experience positive for your child and others. View the game with team goals in mind. Attempt to relieve competitive pressure, not increase it. Encourage multiple-sport participation. Release your children to the coach and the team. Accept the judgment of the officials and coaches; remain in control. Demonstrate winning and losing with dignity. Dignify mistakes made by athletes who are giving their best effort and concentration. Be an encourager—encourage athletes to keep their perspective in both victory and defeat. Accept the roles & achievements of your child. EXPECTATIONS OF SPECTATORS Respect decisions made by contest officials. Refrain from taunting, booing, heckling, and the use of profanity in any manner. Sit in the designated area assigned to each school. Leaving a contest prior to its conclusion, with expectations of returning, may not be permitted. Admission to this contest is not a license to verbally assault others or to be generally offensive. The use of alcoholic beverages, drugs, and tobacco products are prohibited from any Amity campus. Respect athletes, coaches, and fans. DESCRIPTION OF PROGRAM Varsity Athletics: Varsity athletic programs provide opportunities to those athletes who exhibit the greatest skill. These athletes will compete against equally talented athletes from opposing schools. Junior Varsity Athletics: Junior Varsity athletic programs offer students who do not yet possess the skills required of Varsity athletes an opportunity to participate in a competitive setting. Junior Varsity athletes are in the process of gaining the valuable knowledge, skill, and experience required for Varsity competition. Junior Varsity athletes may, on occasion, participate in Varsity contests. Decisions of this nature are based on the evaluation of the athletes’ abilities, by the coaching staff. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 7 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK Freshmen Athletics: Freshmen athletic programs are designed to provide ninth-grade students with the opportunity to participate in an instructional yet competitive setting. These programs will teach basic skills and give athletes an opportunity to gain the valuable knowledge, skill development, and experience necessary for Junior Varsity competition. ATHLETIC PROGRAM OFFERINGS FALL Boy’s and Girl’s Soccer (F, JV, Varsity) Football (F, JV, Varsity) Badminton Girl’s Swimming Boy’s and Girl’s Cross Country Girl’s Volleyball Cheerleading Unified Soccer EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 8 WINTER STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK Wrestling (JV & Varsity) Boy’s and Girl’s Basketball (F, JV, Varsity) Indoor Track Boy’s Swimming Cheerleading Unified Basketball SPRING Baseball (F, JV, Varsity) Softball (F, JV, Varsity) Boy’s and Girl’s Track Boy’s Volleyball Golf Boy’s and Girl’s Tennis Unified Track ELIGIBILITY C.I.A.C. ELIGIBILITY RULES A student has eight (8) consecutive semesters or four (4) consecutive years of eligibility from the date of entry into the ninth grade to be eligible for interscholastic competition. This is an eight semester attendance rule i.e., eight semesters of time not eight semesters of participation or competition rule. The implementation date will be July 2006, affecting all students entering 9th grade in September 2006 (class of 2010). No student presently enrolled in grade 10, 11, or 12, inclusive in any school, (member or nonmember), shall participate in the same branch of athletics for more than three (3) seasons (the three season rule will be phased out as of June 30, 2009.) (You are eligible): A. If you are taking at least four (4) units of work or the equivalent; (Rule I.B.): A pupil cannot at any time represent a school unless taking at least four quarter Carnegie Units of work or its equivalent. “Equivalent” is any number of courses which are equal to one Carnegie Unit. B. If you have passed at least four (4) units or the equivalent at the end of the last regular marking period; EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 9 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK (Rule I.A., I.B.): To be eligible for fall sports a pupil must have received credit toward graduation at the close of the school year preceding the contest in at least four (4) Carnegie Units of work or its equivalent for which he or she has not previously received credit. Credit must be earned during the same academic year. During the school year a pupil must have received a passing mark in at least four (4) quarter Carnegie Units of work or its equivalent at the end of the regular marking period next preceding the contest. Student eligibility will be determined for all students on the date that report cards are distributed or on the fourteenth calendar day following the end of the marking period, whichever comes first. No Carnegie Unit or equivalent for which the pupil has already received credit shall be included in those required by this rule. Scholastic failures cannot be made up for eligibility purposes in any manner until the next report, except the credits earned during the summer by any regularly approved board of education procedure will be accepted for the purpose of determining the eligibility of pupils desiring to participate in the athletic program of the school in September. Scholastic incompletes must be made up within ten (10) school days following the date that student eligibility was determined for the respective marking period as defined above. Incomplete grades are not to be considered as passing grades. Marking period grades (not semester grades) are to be used in determining scholastic eligibility to participate in interscholastic athletics during any given marking period. To be eligible for fall sports a pupil must have received credit toward graduation for four (4) Carnegie Units of work for which he or she has not previously received credit. The final academic average determines fall eligibility. Semester courses or mini-courses completed earlier n the school year may be counted toward the four (4) units used in determining eligibility for fall season. Year-end failures may be made up through successful completion of LEA approved summer school work in courses failed. (You are NOT eligible): C. If you are twenty (20) years of age or will turn twenty (20) during a season; (Rule II. B.): The student shall not have reached his or her twentieth (20th ) birthday. A student-athlete will not be allowed to start a season* or compete during a season in which his/her twentieth (20th ) birthday falls. (*Season as defined in Article IX, Section II.D. and E of the CIAC Bylaws) D. If you have changed schools without a change of legal residence, with the exception of incoming freshman; EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 10 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK (Rule II.C.): A pupil who transfers from a school to a CIAC member school during grade 10-11, or 12 without at the same time changing legal residence to another school district or school service area, or satisfying at least one of the following requirements must complete at least one year (365 days) of approved membership before being eligible for interscholastic competition in any sport in which he or she was a participant in the present or receding season during grades 10, 11, or 12 on the junior varsity or varsity team. Hardship Exception to the Transfer Rule (Rule II. C. #20): Hardship-Eligibility may be granted to a transfer student who does not meet the CIAC Transfer Standard when sufficient evidence is provided. Hardship is defined as an unforeseeable, an unavoidable, and uncorrectable act, condition or event which causes the imposition of a severe burden upon the student or his/her family. Note: All hardship exceptions are reviewed by the CIAC Eligibility Committee. E. F. G. H. Transfer Requirement # 19 (waiver) – A student who does not qualify for the transfer rule using the above requirements may be granted eligibility if the student-athlete transfers for nonathletic reasons. Contact the Athletic Office for the waiver procedures for Requirement # 19. If you play or practice with an outside team in the same sport while a member of the school team after the first scheduled game in any season (rule II.E.); If you play under an assumed name (rule II.F.); If you receive any form of ECONOMIC GAIN for participation in any CIAC sport; (Rule II.G.) If you have exhausted 8 semester of eligibility once they begin high school, regardless of how many seasons they participated in. Note: Eligibility is determined by the athletic department. Use of any illegal player results in forfeiture of game(s) EAST HARTFORD C-RULE ELIGIBILITY POLICY C-Rule Policy In addition to the rules of the CIAC (Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference) parents and students are reminded that a grade point average of 1.7 must be maintained each marking period in order to be eligible for participation in both athletics and extra curricular activities. The Extra-Curricular Eligibility Academic Standard requires that each participating student take at least six (6) credits during a school year (at least 5 courses per semester for seniors) and maintain a grade average no lower than C- (1.7 numerical EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 11 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK average) at the end of the marking period. This standard may be waived only by request, based on a student’s IEP, is approved. Students not in compliance with the C-Rule Policy are identified as not eligible. However, per EHBOE C-Rule policy 6145, students participating in athletic and non-athletic teams will be given the opportunity to reinstate their academic standing at the AD/Activities Coordinator and coach/advisor’s discretion. Interested students must conform to all academic probation requirements. ACADEMIC PROBATION (Athletics) An ineligible student is defined as a student that does not meet the required numerical 1.7 GPA requirement per EHBOE C-Rule policy 6145. Students who do not meet the criteria for an athletic and/or non-athletic club/student organization as outlined in the present C-rule policy will be subjected to Academic probation. 1. Ineligible students will be permitted to tryout for teams or activities at the beginning of the season, when the coach holds tryouts, or when the activities director schedules meetings. The student in question can only exercise this privilege if he or she adheres to the following requirements. The interested student must; a. Be passing four (4) full courses/credits on his or her academic schedule as required by the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC), b. Carry six (6) full credits per year on his/her schedule (at least 5 courses per semester for seniors), c. Complete the required documents to play or participate including the parent permission form and physical form (when applicable or as required for that particular activity or non-team). 2. Ineligible students that make the athletic team during the tryout period or are selected to participate on the non-athletic club/student organization will be placed on the athletic/non-athletic club/school organization team’s roster and be subject to academic probation. While on academic probation, ineligible students will follow a rigorous academic program designed to support the student in his or her effort to restore good academic standing (eligibility). Ineligible students will be under the strict guidance and supervision of the Athletic Director, Activities Coordinator, certified teachers, coaches and advisors. While on academic probation, the ineligible student is not able to play in an athletic contest or in a school sponsored event. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 12 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK 3. The academic probation status restricts the ineligible student from competing in athletic/non-athletic contests/events until the following academic provisions have been achieved. Students will earn eligibility status if all of the following are achieved; a. Earn a 1.7 numerical GPA or higher when the interim progress report (IPR) is processed by the Athletic Department on week 5 of the quarter. b. Attend mandatory study halls (monitored by certified staff) as directed by the Athletic Department. c. Adhere to monitoring progress as directed by Athletic Director and/or Activities Coordinator. 4. Upon meeting the above mentioned requirements, the eligibility of the student will again be reviewed by the Athletic Director and/or Activities Coordinator. If the ineligible student is in compliance; a. The student will become eligible and assume all of the privileges of an eligible student. 5. Students not achieving the 1.7 numerical GPA at the time of the IPR check in week five (5) will be further subject to the Athletic Director and/or Activities Coordinator review and a determination regarding the status of the student in question will be made by the Athletic Director/Principal/Coach/Advisor. 6. At the end of each quarter, eligibility status for every ineligible student will be reviewed and determined based on official report cards. PARTICIPATION Athletes may participate in only one sport program in a sport season. Athletes may not transfer team membership to another sport after they have completed tryouts and have been selected as a member of a given team/sport. TRYOUTS Student-athletes will be encouraged to try out for various athletic teams. A two day (2) mandatory tryout period will be in effect for each team that has cuts. Athletes are selected for Varsity, Junior Varsity, or Freshman teams based on the coaches evaluation of their athletic abilities. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 13 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK C.I.A.C. Sport Seasons Fall: August –November Winter: November-March Spring: March– June *Check website for specific starting dates *Team tryout dates, times and locations available in Athletic Department TEAM LIMITATION The East Hartford athletic program is established to offer opportunities to skilled student-athletes to compete on organized teams or as individuals against student-athletes from similar high schools. The structure of athletic teams at times requires coaches to limit the number of student-athletes representing the school in seasonal competition. Depending on the number of student-athletes interested in joining a sports team, coaches may be forced, in any given year, to reduce the size of their team due to safety concerns, space limitation, and the availability of coaches. The athletic coach will be responsible for selecting student-athletes to compete on athletic teams. The selection process may exclude some student-athletes from becoming a member of a team. In these unfortunate situations, every effort will be made to encourage those students to continue to work towards improving themsleves as athletes and to try out again in the future, AND/OR immediately encouraged to tryout for another team/program being offered that season. Students are also encouraged to explore a program of interest through the extracurricular activities program which is open to everyone. LENGTH OF SEASON All student-athletes are considered in season beginning with the CIAC first practice date and ending with the Finals of the CIAC tournament, regardless of whether of not the individual or individual’s team is still actively participating. In addition, any individual who is still participating in post-season play (e.g. all-star games, all-state, and allNew England or other competitions) while representing his/her high school or region are still considered in season. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT POLICIES EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 14 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK AWARDS At the conclusion of each sports season, student-athletes will be presented appropriate awards at a team sports awards night program. Athletic awards which include letters, certificates, and/or numerals, are given to athletes at the discretion of the coach. All student-athletes, parents, and friends are welcome to attend sports awards night programs. ATHLETIC AWARDS REQUIREMENTS The season is defined as the period between the dates officially designated by the C.I.A.C. as the beginning of the season for that sport and the close of the post season C.I.A.C. tournaments. Junior Varsity and Freshman points will be given on the recommendation of the coach to those athletes who complete the sport season in good standing. TEAM CAPTAINS A. B. C. D. E. Selection as a captain of an athletic team is an honor. The captain’s responsibilities begin when he/she is selected. Captains who violate the substance abuse policy will be removed as a captain regardless of whether or not the student-athlete is in season. Furthermore, other violations or infractions of the student-athlete code of conduct or of school rules may result in the student-athlete being removed as a team captain. Attend the mandatory captain’s leadership meetings held throughout the school year. Set an example of sportsmanship and good behavior at all times. ATTENDANCE – PRACTICE & GAMES Attendance at all practice sessions and/or games (including tournament and vacation periods) for all team members is mandatory. Any unexcused absence forms a practice or game may result in disciplinary action. If for some reason, an athlete will be absent or tardy for a practice/game, he/she must speak personally to a member of the team’s coaching staff prior to that practice/game. Athletes are required to return to the school on the team bus. Athletes should be aware that high school contests may be scheduled or rescheduled for Saturdays (Sundays in the case of football). DRESS CODE Students will adhere to the dress code policy set forth by the Board of Education. In addition, coaches may impose their own dress for EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 15 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK his/her team on the day of a contest. Failure to adhere to team rules or coaches specifications may result in further disciplinary action from coaching staff/Director of Athletics. The school approved exception for the uniform tops will consist of two options for students who participate on an athletic team or activity/club. Each team or club can wear a polo shirt with an administrator approved logo and/or mock collar, full zipped jacket with an administrator approved logo. These team/club polos and jackets may be worn on any day all year. ** Please note: Athletic jerseys/warm ups of any kind are not to be worn during school hours. ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT & SPORTSMANSHIP The community, school administration, and coaching staff believe high standards of conduct and citizenship are essential to a sound athletic program. East Hartford Athletics expects the following of our student athletes: 1. Athletes will conduct themselves as ladies or gentlemen at all times. Remember, all athletes are a representatives of East Hartford High School, your team, coach, and family. 2. Athletes will conduct themselves in an exemplary manner in school, the community, and on any campus which their team is visiting. 3. Restriction of acts of unacceptable conduct such as, but not limited to theft, vandalism, arrest, or any violation of the law. (These behaviors will result in disciplinary action by the appropriate parties). 4. Acceptable school behavior whereas detentions/suspensions from school of any type will not be tolerated. Team disciplinary action will be at the discretion of the coach following such occurrence. The East Hartford Athletic Department in collaboration with the school’s administration has developed a progressive discipline plan to clearly outline expectations of the student athletes. In the event a disciplinary action is required, the following table will be used as a guideline for action. Note: Student-Athlete Misbehaviors Chart & Discipline Plan at the end of the handbook SUSPENSION OR DISMISSAL FROM A TEAM At the beginning of each season, students will be informed in writing by the coach of the types of behavior which may warrant suspension EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 16 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK or removal from the team. Each case will be considered individually. Parents, the Director of Athletics, and Principal will be notified by telephone as soon as possible after a student has been suspended or permanently removed from the team. ADDITIONAL TEAM/SPORT REGULATIONS Coaches may have additional regulations pertaining to their sport. These regulations will be discussed at the beginning of each season. Any violation of the aforementioned rules may lead to dismissal from the team for the duration of the season or possibly an indefinite suspension. Statement on Sportsmanship We are proud of our record in competitive sports here at East Hartford. Our pride goes beyond the team and the game. Our attitude is probably best summed up in the following quotation: “Sportsmanship is that quality of honor that strives always to be courteous, fair and respectful, and it is interpreted in the conduct of players, spectators, coaches and school authorities.” All spectators at our athletic events are reminded that they are guests at those contests and proper behavior is expected. Any spectator not abiding by the principles of good sportsmanship will be asked to leave the contest and may have the privilege of attending future contests revoked. Civility by all concerned promotes a positive atmosphere for athletic competition. FIGHTING PRIOR, DURING, OR AFTER ATHLETIC CONTESTS This type of behavior by East Hartford High athletes will not be tolerated for any reason. It does not matter if you are the victim of an unsportsmanlike act, if you are provoked or taunted, if you are verbally or physically abused, or any other set of circumstances. Fighting will not be tolerated, period. The relevant question is, did you, the East Hartford athlete, actively participate in a fight, retaliate in a fight, or leave the bench or sideline to join a fight in progress? If the answer if YES to any part of this question, you, the athlete, will be subject to serious sanctions such as, but not limited to, suspension from school, team, and/or dismissal from the team. MOOD ALTERING CHEMICAL USE – TOBACCO, ALCOHOL, EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 17 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK DRUGS (illegal and non-prescription) There will be absolutely no use or possession of any quantity of tobacco (including smokeless), alcohol, illegal/non-prescription drugs (including steroids) or drug paraphernalia by an East Hartford athlete. Any individual who violates this rule (either on or off campus) will be subject to disciplinary action. PERFORMANCE ENHANCERS The East Hartford School District Athletic Department in no way endorses the use of “Creatine” or any other ergogenic aid. It is our position that student-athletes who wish to use these types of performance enhancing products should make that decision with their parents and family physician Any violation of the aforementioned rules may lead to dismissal from the team for the duration of the season or indefinite suspension. Please refer to the East Hartford High School Student Handbook regarding violations of the drug and alcohol policy. TRAVEL All athletes must travel to and from athletic contests in transportation provided by the Athletic Department. Athletes will remain with their team under the supervision of the coach. Athletes who miss the bus and fail to comply with team rules may be suspended for that particular contest or multiple contests. Parents will not transport athletes unless a written request form from the athletic office (email is unacceptable) is submitted to the Director of Athletics at least 24 hours prior to the contest for approval. C.I.A.C. / C.C.C. EJECTION POLICY If a player is ejected from a varsity, junior varsity, or freshman, league or non-league contest, he/she will be suspended for a minimum period of one contest at that level of play and all contests at any level played in the interim. “CAPTAIN’S PRACTICE” EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 18 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK The C.I.A.C. and the East Hartford School District do not in any way sanction or condone “Captain’s Practice” in any sport. “Captain’s Practice” is a violation of the C.I.A.C. Eligibility Rule II. D, and, therefore, is not permitted. HAZING, INITIATIONS AND BULLYING Hazing, initiations, or bullying of student-athletes by other team members are not acceptable, and any such practice of this type of behavior will not be tolerated. Student athletes should be aware that hazing can constitute a violation of Connecticut Criminal Statutes as a form of assault and can make the student liable for arrest and prosecution, as well as civil liability. Hazing is defined as any form or type of physical, verbal, and/or emotional mistreatment, abuse, and/or harassment of a student in connection with a student’s participation in or membership on an interscholastic athletic team or in any school-sponsored activities, and/or forcing, coercing or intimidating any student to participate in any illegal or inappropriate activities in connection with the student’s participation or membership in the foregoing. Hazing is prohibited whether it occurs on or off school grounds and whether it occurs during, prior to or after the season or school day. C.I.A.C. RULES MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE CIAC WEB SITE : WWW.CASCIAC.ORG OR FROM THE EAST HARTFORD SCHOOL DISTRICT ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT REQUIREMENTS PARENT PERMISSION FORMS All candidates and their parents/guardians must complete the athletic department Permission to Participate form (which is enclosed in this handbook) and return it to their nurse before they may tryout or participate in any practice sessions. There will be NO any exceptions to this rule. PHYSICAL AND PRE-PARTICIPATION FORMS Prior to the first tryout/practice session, all candidates for athletic teams are required to be examined by their family physician, a walk-in clinic physician, or the school physician. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 19 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK Completed physical examination forms (or copies of) must be on file in the Health Office of the high school prior to the first tryout/practice session. Coaches will not accept physical forms. The physical examination is valid for 365 days and must cover all athletes for the entire sport season (including tryout period) as specified by the CIAC. Should the physical examination expire during the course of the sport season, the athlete will be required to be examined prior to the start of that sport season (including tryout period). INJURIES & ACCIDENT FORMS All injuries sustained by an athletic team member are to be reported immediately to the coach or advisor in charge. This is the responsibility of the student. The second responsibility of the student is to report the injury to the Athletic Trainer and to complete an Accident Report Form. Athletes with an illness / injury sustained in an athletic event, or other activity, that requires a visit to a doctor, hospital, or primary care facility must receive written clearance by a physician in order to return to participation in East Hartford Athletic activities. Students should, when necessary, seek care from their family physician, a specialist or the school physician. INSURANCE COVERAGE A plan of Excess Insurance covering interscholastic sports provides that valid claims for injuries received as a result of participating in interscholastic athletics will be paid on an excess basis. This Excess Insurance Policy will cover bills after a parent/guardian’s health insurance has first applied. The East Hartford School District covers only those debts up to the limits set forth in the Excess policy. When an interscholastic sports injury occurs, obtain a claim form from the School Nurse; complete and submit the form with any bills showing credit received from your insurance company. No insurance forms will be provided unless an Accident Report is on file with the Health Office. Claims should be filed with 30 days and sent to: 1. School Nurse 2. Board of Education UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT Uniforms and equipment are on a loan basis and are to be worn only when authorized by the coach. Only uniforms issued by the Athletic Department will be permitted to be worn for contests. All uniforms and/or equipment are the responsibility of the athletes during the season and must be returned at the conclusion of the season. If lost or EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 20 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK stolen, the replacement cost of the uniform/equipment will be assessed to the student in the form of accountability form and restriction from all other school-related activities until the item is returned or paid for by the student. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT LOCKERS & LOCKER ROOMS During the season, student athletes should store and lock all valuables, clothing and equipment in a locker in their respective school locker rooms. East Hartford School District will not be responsible for any lost or stolen property which is stored improperly. PROCEDURES FOR CONTACTING ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL Parents: 1. Encourgage your child to discuss the issue directly with their coach. Many times these types of meetings may resolve an issue or concern. 2. If your son or daughter’s meeting with the coach did not resolve the issue, then call to set up an appointment to meet with the coach. It is expected that your son/daughter will be present at this meeting. The East Hartford Athletic Department Office telephone number is 622-5236. If the coach cannot be reached, call the Director of Athletics, and a meeting will be set up for you. The Athletic Director will not discuss playing time issues. Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution. Please use the following procedure to set the appropriate meeting to meet the individual issue if necessary. 1. 2. 3. The meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution, call and set up an appointment to meet with the Director of Athletics to discuss the situation. If the meeting with the Director of Athletics did not provide a satisfactory resolution, call and set up an appointment to meet with the building Principal to discuss the situation. If the meeting with the building Principal did not provide a satisfactory resolution, submit in writing, a detailed description of your issue or concern to the Superintendent of Schools in care of the East Hartford School District Central Office, 1110 Main Street East Hartford, 06108 EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 21 NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK INITIAL-ELIGIBILITY FOR COLLEGE ATHLETES Students planning to enroll as college freshmen who want to participate in DIVISION I or DIVISION II athletics, must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse. DIVISION III schools do not require students to be certified. To begin the certification process, a student must go to the NCAA Clearinghouse website. Here, they will need to register and file a student release form. This form, as well as the required fee, must be submitted to the Clearinghouse. Once requested, an official student transcript will be mailed from the guidance office. In addition, when registering for the SAT or ACT, the student must request that scores be sent to the Clearinghouse. The Clearinghouse website is www.ncaaclearinghouse.net. From the NCAA Clearinghouse website, prospective studentathletes are able to access information needed to understand the Division I and Division II eligibility requirements, register with the Clearinghouse and access individual Clearinghouse records. NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE WEBSITE Links to the NCAA website. Core-course listings for high schools. Online version of NCAA Guide for the CollegeBound Student-Athlete. Online information about Division I and Division II initial-eligibility requirements. Online Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) Prospective Student-Athletes: Submit your Student Release Form (SRF) via the Web. Registered Students - Update your registration information (if necessary). Registered Students - Check your certification status. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 22 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EHHS Social Media Policy The East Hartford High School Department of Athletics recognizes and supports its student-athletes’ and coaches’ rights to freedom of speech, expression, and association, including the use of social networks. In this context, however, each student athlete and coach must remember that playing and competing for EHHS is a privilege, not a right. As a student-athlete or coach, you represent the high school and are expected to portray yourself, your team, and the high school in a positive manner at all times. Any online postings must therefore be consistent with federal and State laws, and team, Department, school, and CIAC rules and policies (including the Guidelines listed below). Guidelines: If you participate on a social networking site, you must keep the following guidance in mind: Everything you post is public information – 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. Information (including pictures, videos, comments, and posters) may be accessible even after you remove it. Limit information about your whereabouts or plans to minimize the potential of being stalked, assaulted, or the victim of other criminal activity. What you post may affect your future. Many employers and school admissions officers review social networking sites as part of their overall evaluation of an applicant. Carefully consider how you want people to perceive you before you give them a chance to misinterpret your information (including pictures, videos, comments, and posters). Similar to comments made in person, the Department of Athletics will not tolerate disrespectful comments and behavior online, such as: o o o Derogatory or defamatory language; Comments that create a serious danger to the safety of another person or that constitute a credible threat of serious physical or emotional injury to another person; Comments or photos that describe or depict unlawful assault, abuse, hazing, harassment, or discrimination; selling, possessing, or using EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 23 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK controlled substances; or any other illegal or prohibited conduct, including violating the High School’s Policy on Prohibited Harassment and Discrimination. EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 24 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 25 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 26 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 27 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 28 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK STUDENT ATHLETE SIGN OFF East Hartford Public Schools DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 29 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK I hereby acknowledge I have read the Student/Athlete Handbook explaining the following all East Hartford Athletic Policies and Procedures including: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Eligibility Sportsmanship Physicals General Policies/Procedures Standards for Practice/Games Awards Substance Abuse Policies Equipment Uniforms and Procedures Athletic Team Attendance Policies Insurance for Athletes Performance Enhancing Drug Policy I agree to adhere to these regulations while participating in athletics at East Hartford High School. Sport:__________________________________ _______________________________________ Print name of student/athlete _______________________________________ Signed Student Athlete _______________________________________ Date Please Return to the Athletic Office EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 30 STUDENT-AHTHLETE HANDBOOK EAST HARTFORD HIGH SCHOOL 869 FORBES STREET EAST HARTFORD, CT 06118 31