STUDENT-ATHLETE
CODE OF CONDUCT
2014-15
Name (PRINT)___________________________
Sport: ________________________________________
The Intercollegiate Athletic program at the University of Vermont facilitates the personal growth and education of
students through their participation in a comprehensive program of NCAA Division I sports. As an integral part of the
University, the Intercollegiate Athletic program actively promotes fair competition, fosters the pursuit of academic and
athletic excellence, supports core institutional values of equity and diversity, and provides community enrichment.
The University is proud of the high caliber of its student-athletes. The Intercollegiate Athletic program is committed to the
guiding principles of honesty, integrity, respect, ethical conduct, teamwork, and hard work in support of student-athletes
in their roles as scholars, athletes, campus leaders, and community members.
The University expects its student-athletes to train and strive for their highest degree of athletic excellence and
sportsmanship; to demonstrate academic integrity and accomplishment; and to conduct themselves responsibly as
members of the campus and larger community.
Students are expected to meet all requirements of the Department of Athletics, including roles and expectations
established by a coach for a team. Coaches have discretion to take reasonable action and to impose sanctions for conduct
that demonstrates a student-athlete is unable to participate effectively as a member of a team, but which conduct is not a
violation of this Student-Athlete Code of Conduct.
I.
Standards of Conduct
It is a privilege and not a right to be a student-athlete and every student-athlete is expected to conduct him or herself in a
manner that exhibits honor and respect to the team, department, University and surrounding community for the duration of
his or her tenure as a student-athlete. As a member of the student body at the University of Vermont, each student-athlete
must act in accordance with the Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities
(www.uvm.edu/policies/student/studentcode.pdf) as published by the institution. In addition, student-athletes are
accountable to the following authorities (hereafter referenced as “governing authorities”):
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Municipal ordinances, and State and federal laws, both civil and criminal (“laws”);
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA);
America East Conference (AE);
Hockey East Association (HEA);
Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Association (EISA);
University of Vermont (UVM);
Department of Athletics;
Team Rules
For clarification of the governing authorities, student-athletes should consult with a member of the coaching staff or
administration. Violation of any of the standards of conduct encompassed in these authorities may result in discipline as
described in Section IV below, as well as civil and/or criminal liability. All documented violations of this Code of
Conduct will be reported to UVM’s Center for Student Ethics and Standards (CSES) and may result in further disciplinary
action.
Reporting Obligation. Every student-athlete is obligated to report his or her violations of this Code of Conduct to
his or her Head Coach or to the Director of Athletics within 24 hours of such violation. This obligation is in effect
year-round, including semester and summer breaks.
University of Vermont, Department of Athletics
Revised 7/23/2014
II.
Definitions
A. Student-Athlete. Once a student is accorded the status of a varsity student-athlete, he or she is expected to act in
accordance with this Code of Conduct, including semester and summer breaks, or such time that he or she is no longer a
student-athlete at the University of Vermont. Students are bound by this Code at the point at which there is intent to enroll
at the University, including but not limited to their execution of an admissions acceptance letter and/or attendance at
Summer Orientation prior to initial enrollment.
B. Team Function. An athletic team function is defined as any gathering, whether on or off-campus, formal or informal,
where the intent or reason to gather is to conduct business or engage in any athletic or social activity related to the team’s
purpose, and organized, arranged or initiated by Athletic Department staff, or team members. If any standards established
by the governing authorities are violated during a team function, and there is no clear evidence that the team attempted
any restraining action through its members, the team will be held responsible and disciplinary action taken.
C. Hazing. Hazing is any act committed by a person, whether individually or in concert with others, against a student in
connection with joining/pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or gaining or maintaining
membership in any organization that is affiliated with the University; and has the effect of socially or physically isolating,
humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning the student or having the effect of harming or potentially harming the mental or
physical health of a student.
D. Sportsmanship. Sportsmanship shall be defined in accordance with the standards of the NCAA, AE, HEA, EISA, and
the University Athletic Department. In general, a sportsperson is one who can take a loss or defeat without complaint, a
victory without gloating, and who treats opponents with fairness, generosity and courtesy. Sportsmanship is respect for
oneself, teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, and property. Sportsmanship also requires maintaining self-control, and
refusing to be drawn into or encourage physical conflict not otherwise required by proper execution of the sport. All
student-athletes are obligated to represent themselves, the team, the Athletic Department, the University, their families,
and their communities, with the highest level of sportsmanship.
III.
Prohibited Conduct.
Prohibited conduct includes violation of any of the standards established by the governing authorities identified above. By
way of illustration, and without limitation of those prohibitions, student-athletes must not violate any of the policies
described below (which are described in more detail in UVM’s Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities and/or the
National Collegiate Athletic Association Manual).
A. Academic Integrity. All academic work (e.g., homework assignments, written and oral reports, creative projects,
performances, in-class and take-home exams, extra-credit projects, research, theses and dissertations) must satisfy the
following four standards of academic integrity:
1. All ideas, arguments, and phrases, submitted without attribution to other sources, must be the creative product of
the student. Thus, all text passages taken from the works of other authors must be properly cited. The same
applies to paraphrased text, opinions, data, examples, illustrations, and all other creative work. Violations of this
standard constitute plagiarism.
2. All experimental data, observations, interviews, statistical surveys, and other information collected and reported
as part of academic work must be authentic. Any alteration, e.g., the removal of statistical outliers, must be clearly
documented. Violations of this standard constitute fabrication.
3. Students may only collaborate within the limits prescribed by their instructors. Students may not provide, seek, or
accept information about any academic work to or from another student without the authorization of the
instructor. Violations of this standard constitute collusion.
4. Students must adhere to the guidelines provided by their instructors for completing academic work. Students may
not claim as their own work any portion of academic work that was completed by another student. Students may
not present the same (or substantially the same) work for more than one course without obtaining approval from
the instructor of each course. Violations of this standard constitute cheating.
For more information on UVM’s Academic Integrity Policy, please see
www.uvm.edu/policies/student/acadintegrity.pdf.
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Revised 7/23/2014
B. Unexcused Class Absences and Poor Academic Performance. Student-athletes are expected to attend class
regularly and punctually, and to fulfill course load and academic performance requirements. Failure to meet such
obligations may affect eligibility to participate on a team and scholarship eligibility, as well as academic standing.
C. Alcohol. Prohibited acts include (1) Possessing or consuming alcohol if under the age of 21, (2) Operating a motor
vehicle while under the influence of alcohol, (3) Misrepresenting one’s age for the purpose of purchasing, possessing,
or consuming alcohol, (4) Purchasing, furnishing, or serving alcohol to or for an underage person, (5) Being
dangerously intoxicated to the point where State law mandates being taken into custody, (6) Other prohibited acts as
outlined in the UVM Student Alcohol and Other Drug Policy, (7) Violations of additional Team Rules regarding
alcohol use, and/or (8) Consumption of alcohol during team travel or at team functions.
D. Other Drugs. Prohibited acts include (1) Possessing or using illegal substances, as defined by law, (2) Possessing or
using controlled substances as defined by law (provided that controlled substances may be taken pursuant to a
properly issued prescription in the amount prescribed), (3) Distributing, selling, or possessing with the intent to
distribute illegal or controlled substances, as defined by law, (4) The use of tobacco products by a student athlete
during practice, competition, or other team functions, and/or (5) Other prohibited acts as described in the UVM
Student Alcohol and Other Drug Policy.
E. Nutritional or Dietary Supplements. Many nutritional/dietary supplements contain substances banned by the
NCAA. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate the supplement industry;
therefore, the purity and safety of nutritional/dietary supplements cannot be guaranteed. Impure supplements may lead
to a positive NCAA drug test and thus affect the eligibility of student-athletes. To avoid violation of this standard,
student-athletes should contact the team physician or athletic trainer with questions and/or consult the list of NCAA
banned drugs.
F. Hazing. Hazing in connection with membership or participation in University athletic teams or team activities is
strictly prohibited. Definition of hazing is noted in this document and hazing is described in greater detail in Section
IX.
G. Violence. It is central to the mission of the University of Vermont to prevent violence and threats of violence on
campus. The University has prescribed standards of conduct that apply to all members of the campus community.
Any crime involving endangerment or harm to individuals or the public is prohibited. Also, the institution has set
forth clear institutional policies governing firearms, sexual assault, discrimination or sexual harassment, domestic
abuse and violence, hazing, unlawful possession or use of drugs and alcohol, and fire safety to protect individual and
public safety.
H. Sexual Assault. Sexual assault is any sexual contact forced on another person through any means including, but not
limited to, threats to harm them or another, actual harm or force, intimidation, coercion, or lack of consent. If
someone is pressured or intimidated into sexual contact, or is otherwise mentally or physically incapable of consent,
the University of Vermont considers this sexual assault. Sexual assault is prohibited regardless of sexual orientation or
gender of the perpetrator or victim. For more information on the Sexual Misconduct and Assault Policy, including the
rights of and resources available to victims of sexual assault, please see
www.uvm.edu/policies/general_html/sexassault.pdf
I. Harassment. Harassment means an incident or incidents of verbal, written, visual, or physical conduct based on or
motivated by a student’s or a student’s family member’s actual or perceived race, creed, color, national origin, marital
status, sex, sexual orientation, or disability that has the purpose or effect of objectively and substantially undermining
and detracting from or interfering with a student’s educational performance or access to school resources or creating
an objectively intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment. For more information on the Harassment Policy, please
see www.uvm.edu/~uvmppg/ppg/student/studentharas.pdf.
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Revised 7/23/2014
J. Stalking. Stalking is defined as willfully and repeatedly following, contacting, or harassing another person or series
of people in a manner that would cause a reasonable person to feel frightened, intimidated, threatened, harassed, or
molested. For more information on stalking, please see www.uvm.edu/policies/student/studentcode.pdf.
K. Disrespect. At all times, student-athletes are required to comport themselves in a manner respectful of themselves,
their team, the University and its Athletic Department, game officials, opponents, and property. Student-athletes are to
refrain from disrespectful conduct such as unsportsmanlike conduct; profane, abusive, demeaning, harassing,
threatening or obscene expression; or deliberate damage to equipment or other property. Disrespectful conduct will be
reviewed by the Head Coach and Director of Athletics and may result in disciplinary action.
L. Poor Sportsmanship. Student-athletes at the University of Vermont are held accountable to a high standard of ethical
conduct in all activities affecting the athletics program, whether as a participant or as a spectator. Unsportsmanlike
conduct, as defined by the NCAA, AE, HEA, EISA or the University of Vermont, will be reviewed by the Director of
Athletics and may result in disciplinary action.
M. Gambling and Bribery. Student-athletes shall not knowingly (1) Provide information to individuals involved in
organized gambling activities concerning intercollegiate athletics competition, (2) Solicit a bet on any intercollegiate
team, (3) Accept a bet on any team representing the institution, (4) Solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate
competition for any item that has tangible value (e.g. cash, clothing or equipment, meals), and/or (5) Participate in any
gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics or professional athletics through a bookmaker, a parlay card or
any other method employed by organized gambling.
N. Failure to Meet Team Obligations. Student-athletes must complete training requirements; arrive promptly for team
practices, meetings, and departures for away contests and other team events; attend team functions; and otherwise
fulfill their responsibilities as team members. Absences must be excused in advance by the Head Coach.
O. Conduct Unbecoming a UVM Student-Athlete. At all times UVM student-athletes are expected to conduct
themselves responsibly within the Athletic Department, campus, and larger community. Behavior which reflects
negatively on themselves, their team, the Athletic Department, or the University may be grounds for disciplinary
action.
Special Notice on Social Networking Web Sites: As a representative of the Department of Athletics and the University of
Vermont, you are always in the public eye. Please keep the following in mind as you participate on social networking web
sites:
 Understand that anything posted online is available to anyone in the world. Any text or photo placed online is out of
your control the moment it is placed online—even if you limit access to your site.
 You should not post any information, photos, or other items online that could embarrass you, your family, your team,
the Department of Athletics, or the University of Vermont. This includes information, photos and items that may be
posted by others on your site.
 Behavioral expectations in the online world are the same as in the real world. Student-athletes could face discipline
or sanctions as described below for policy violations revealed online.
IV.
Disciplinary Process and Sanctions.
The Department of Athletics disciplinary process is independent of, and supplements, the University student conduct
process. Sanctions levied by Athletics may occur over and above those levied by the Center for Student Ethics and
Standards (CSES). Sanctions will vary depending on the type and circumstances of the violation, but may without
limitation include loss of athletics program eligibility and/or scholarship.
When the Athletic Department becomes aware of an alleged violation of this Code of Conduct, the Director of Athletics
or her/his designee (“the AD”) will take reasonable steps to verify the validity, reliability, and accuracy of the report.
These steps may include interviews of students and employees, or of non-University persons having knowledge of
relevant facts; examination of documents; and other steps necessary for the AD to determine the merits of the report. A
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meeting with the student-athlete will ordinarily occur before any discipline is imposed; however, in extenuating
circumstances, the AD may suspend the student-athlete before the meeting.
Determination of responsibility will be based on a preponderance of evidence and information available. A first-time
offense may be serious enough to warrant any of the possible sanctions listed in A-F below. A student-athlete’s refusal to
participate and cooperate in an Athletic Department or NCAA investigation of a possible violation of this Code of
Conduct may itself constitute a basis for disciplinary action.
A. Violations of Team Rules. Head Coaches will establish team rules consistent with this Code of Conduct. Team
rules shall be in writing and distributed to team members at the start of each academic year or the beginning of the
playing season, whichever comes first. The Head Coach and the Director of Athletics each has the authority to
impose sanctions for the violation of team rules, provided that the Head Coach shall not impose the sanction of
suspension or expulsion from the team without the approval of the Director of Athletics, or designee.
B. Violation of Rules or Policies other than Team Rules. For violations of rules and policies other than team rules
(e.g., violations of NCAA rules, the Student Code of Conduct, etc.) the Head Coach may impose sanctions with
the approval of the Director of Athletics, or designee.
C. Violation of Criminal Law. When a student-athlete has engaged in conduct alleged to be in violation of criminal
law, immediately upon receipt of notice of such possible violation the Head Coach must report the information to
the Director of Athletics. Student-athletes arrested for, or charged with, violating the criminal law will be placed
on immediate administrative suspension from involvement in team activity pending further investigation. If a
violation would constitute a misdemeanor, the Head Coach may in the exercise of his/her reasonable discretion
lift the administrative suspension. If a violation of law would constitute a felony, the administrative suspension
may be lifted only upon authorization of the Director of Athletics. In all cases in which a student-athlete is
arrested for or charged with illegal use of drugs, illegal gambling, or sexual misconduct or violence, the studentathlete will be immediately suspended, and the suspension may be lifted only by the Director of Athletics. The
Head Coach may, for violation of criminal law, impose team sanctions on the student-athlete apart from
suspension with the approval of the Director of Athletics.
D. Multi-Sport Athletes. Multi-sport athletes will not be relieved of any sanctions previously imposed in connection
with rules violation while participating in another team sport when changing sports.
E. Underage Alcohol Violation. An underage alcohol violation will, at minimum, be sanctioned with probation, the
terms of which will be determined jointly by the Director of Athletics and the Head Coach.
F. Possible sanctions include but are not limited to:
1)
Warning. The issuance of a written warning.
2)
Probation. Special status with conditions imposed for a limited time.
3)
Community Service.
4)
Restitution. Payment for damaged property.
5)
Temporary Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from all Athletic Department
activities, including athletic participation in team events, for a limited period of time.
6)
Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from all Athletic Department activities, including athletic
participation in team events, for a specified period of no less than one season.
7)
Expulsion. Permanent removal from a team and/or Athletic Department activities.
8)
Withdrawal of Financial Aid. Termination of an athletic grant-in-aid.
V. Appeals
A student-athlete who is subject to season-long suspension or expulsion from athletics team participation, or whose
athletic grant-in-aid would be affected by a sanction imposed by the Athletic Director, may request for appeal from these
sanctions. The appeal must be made, in writing, to the Dean of Students office within 3 business days of the
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student-athlete’s receipt of the notice of sanctions. The appeal letter must explain the grounds for the appeal (e.g. new
information, due process issue, abuse of discretion). Such appeals will be heard by an Appeals Board consisting of the
following voting members:
Appeals Board:
 Associate AD, Student-Athlete Services or designee.
 Two Head Coaches, not from appellant’s sport, appointed by Chair.
 Faculty representative, appointed by Chair.
 Associate VP/Dean of Students, or designee, Chair.
Upon receipt of the request for appeal, the Appeals Board will assemble as soon as is reasonably possible. The Board will
conduct its investigation by hearing details of the case from the Director of Athletics, the appellant’s Head Coach, and the
appellant. The student-athlete will be given the opportunity to make an oral and written statement about the circumstances
and why he or she feels reinstatement is warranted. The student-athlete may be accompanied by a personal advisor. This
advisor must be a member of the University community (e.g. student, faculty, or staff), and may play no other role in the
hearing (e.g. as witness), and cannot speak or otherwise represent their advisees in the hearing. The Appeals Board will
have the opportunity to review other relevant information, including information from public authorities, court records,
law enforcement officers, University officers and agencies, and other persons.
Having gathered information about the case, the Appeals Board will meet privately to discuss the case. In reviewing the
case for reinstatement, the Appeals Board may consider all the circumstances, including the nature of the offense, any
aggravating or mitigating circumstances, any previous violations of the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct and/or the Code
of Student Rights & Responsibilities, the extent of the student’s cooperation and acceptance of responsibility, and the
conduct of the student since the offense. The Appeals Board must meet and render a decision within 5 business days of
the appeal. Based on a majority of votes taken, the appeals board may uphold or modify the sanctions imposed by the
Director of Athletics.
VI. Referral to Counseling
Students who, in the judgment of their Team Coach or the Athletic Director, evidence a need for professional assistance
will be referred to appropriate counseling resources. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to follow up on this referral
and to adhere to professional recommendations.
VII.
Records Privacy.
Federal and State law, and related University policy, governing the access to student records applies to the administration
of this Code of Conduct. For information, see www.uvm.edu/policies/student/ferpa.pdf.
VIII. Drug Testing.
Student-athletes are required to consent in writing to drug testing under the terms of NCAA and UVM Athletics policies
on drug testing, as a condition of the privilege of participating in intercollegiate sports. Failure to provide such consent
shall result in immediate suspension and possible permanent expulsion from the team.
IX. UVM Hazing Prevention Pledge
Membership in organizations, teams, and other University-affiliated groups can increase leadership and service potential;
provide athletic, recreational, intellectual, and spiritual opportunities; and otherwise contribute positively to personal and
social development. At the University of Vermont, we believe that students should not be demeaned or exposed to harm
when pursuing involvement in campus life.
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Know The Code
The University assumes that you’ve read important University policies, including the Code of Student Rights and
Responsibilities and the full Hazing Policy. The truth is you’ll be held accountable to the Code and other policies even if
you have not read them. The full University hazing policy - including additional definitions, elaboration, and procedures can be found online at http://www.uvm.edu/policies/student/hazing.pdf.
Policy Summary
The University unequivocally opposes activities that constitute hazing. You will be held accountable for any hazing
behavior you do by yourself and/or with others against a student or prospective student in connection to joining or
maintaining membership in any organization affiliated with UVM. Unacceptable behaviors cover a wide range of
activities that isolate, humiliate, intimidate or demean an individual, as well as other behaviors that can also cause mental
or physical harm. Hazing occurs regardless of the consent or willingness of a person to participate in the activity.
Hazing Prevention Pledge
I have read the UVM Hazing Prevention Pledge, and I understand the following:
 The Department of Athletics values positive team building efforts, inclusive environments, and doing no harm to
individuals.
 I agree and pledge not to participate in activities that would meet the definition of hazing above and as elaborated
in the University’s Hazing Policy.
 I will strive to prevent hazing from happening within my organization and to intervene if I become aware of
hazing.
 I understand that if I am in violation of this policy I will be subject to discipline that may include, but is not
limited to probation, suspension, and expulsion.
X.
Agreement/Waiver
I understand and agree that I am required to know, understand, and follow the standards contained in the University of
Vermont Department of Athletics Student-Athlete Code of Conduct. In addition, I understand and agree that I am
responsible for knowing, understanding, and following the rules, policies, and procedures contained in the complete
University of Vermont Code of Student Rights and Responsibilities.
I grant permission to the Director of Athletics and the University’s Athletic Communications staff to include customary
information about me in the Department’s website, event programs, and other publications. I also grant permission to
those officials to release to the media information related to alleged violations of this Code of Conduct or other
disciplinary rules, as necessary to respond to media inquiries or to ensure the fairness and accuracy of public information.
Date: _____________________
__________________________________________
Signature of Student-Athlete
Sport: _____________________
__________________________________________
Printed Name
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UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS
DRUG EDUCATION AND TESTING POLICY
2014-15
Purpose
The Department of Athletics at the University of Vermont is concerned about the health, safety and wellbeing of the
student-athletes who participate in its programs and represent the University in competitive athletics. In addition, UVM
Athletics views the inappropriate use of drugs to be incompatible with our stated goals of academic and athletic
excellence. Student-athletes are expected to make responsible, lawful decisions regarding the use of alcohol and other
drugs and to conduct themselves in accordance with University policies, the UVM Student-Athlete Code of Conduct, and
federal, state and local laws.
The Department of Athletics takes the position that random drug testing and testing based on reasonable cause are
appropriate to ensure the health and safety of our student-athletes; to promote fair competition in intercollegiate
athletics; to affirm compliance with National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), America East Conference, Hockey
East Association, Eastern Intercollegiate Ski Association, and University of Vermont rules and regulations concerning
drug use; and to identify student-athletes who are improperly using drugs and to assist them before they harm
themselves or others, compromise their academic or athletic performance, or become physiologically or psychologically
dependent. Further, the Department of Athletics recognizes its responsibility to provide educational programming and
support services that will help our student-athletes to make appropriate decisions regarding substance use.
Education and Consent
Consistent with NCAA minimum guidelines, UVM Athletics will offer health and safety educational sessions for all varsity
teams at least once per semester. These educational sessions will strive to make student-athletes aware of the risks
associated with inappropriate use of “street” drugs, prescription medications, nutritional supplements, and other
performance-enhancing drugs. These sessions will also describe in detail UVM and NCAA drug testing programs.
The Department of Athletics has appointed a Health & Safety Advisory Team for the ongoing review of individual cases.
There is also a mechanism in place for coaches and other athletics staff members to report their health and safety
concerns, including but not limited to drug use, with the Health & Safety Advisory Team. Membership of this team
includes representation from Athletic Medicine, Student-Athlete Development, coaching staff, and when appropriate,
staff from UVM’s Counseling and Psychiatric Services office. The Health & Safety Advisory Team may seek consultation
with other University officials as necessary and appropriate.
Random Selection for Drug Testing
All UVM intercollegiate student-athletes listed on an institutional squad list will be subject to random drug testing under
the terms of this UVM Athletics Drug Education and Testing Policy. Student-athletes will be tested under the following
conditions:
1. As a condition of intercollegiate athletic eligibility, all student-athletes must sign the UVM and NCAA drug
testing consent and authorization forms. No student-athlete will be allowed to compete until the consent forms
are signed.
2. All UVM intercollegiate student-athletes listed on the institutional squad list will be subject to random drug
testing under the terms of the UVM Athletics Drug Education and Testing Policy. This includes but is not limited
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to student-athletes who are “red shirting,” student-athletes who are academically ineligible, student-athletes
who are injured, and fifth-year student-athletes.
3. All UVM student-athletes are subject to NCAA and institutional drug testing throughout the calendar year,
including summer, under the terms of the NCAA Drug-Testing Program and UVM Athletics Drug Education and
Testing Policy. Testing will be conducted at unspecified times and dates each semester.
Reasonable Cause Selection for Drug Testing
Intercollegiate student-athletes shall also be subject to reasonable cause drug testing. Circumstances, conditions, or
events giving rise to individualized reasonable cause drug testing shall be submitted in writing to the Health & Safety
Advisory Team which shall be the sole entity to authorize and initiate the drug testing process on grounds of reasonable
cause. “Reasonable cause” shall not mean a mere “hunch” or “intuition”. It shall instead be based upon a specific event,
occurrence or criteria, including but not limited to:
1. An arrest or citation by police or University authorities, which has led to the belief that a student-athlete has
used a banned substance.
2. Direct observation by, but not limited to, athletic administrators, coaches, athletic trainers, or the team
physician, of a physical or mental deficiency or of medically indicated symptomology of banned substance use,
or of aberrant or otherwise patently suspicious conduct (e.g. dramatic behavioral change, unexplained
absenteeism, unexplained or unreasonable mood swings, decrease in grades, incident of fighting, involvement
with on-campus or off-campus legal authorities). Documentation by staff of such indications should be made to
the Health & Safety Advisory Team.
3. Information supplied by reliable third parties, including but not limited to law enforcement officials, if said
information is corroborated by other objective facts that is not suspect. Suspect information includes but is not
limited to that which is equivocal, contradictory or unsubstantiated.
4. Common-sense conclusions about observed or reliably described human behavior upon which reasonable
people ordinarily rely. Documentation by staff of such behaviors should be made to the Health & Safety
Advisory Team.
5. A previous positive drug test or previous SA Code of Conduct Violation having to do with drug-related offense.
Drug Testing Collection Procedures
The method adopted by the Department of Athletics for testing for banned substances shall be through independent
laboratory analysis of urine samples provide by student-athletes. Student-athletes will be notified of their selection for
testing no more than twenty-four hours prior to the date and time of the scheduled test. Notification will be by direct
telephone or in-person contact by the Testing Coordinator, or her/his designee. Upon being notified, student-athletes
will be required to complete the Drug Testing Notification Form (appendix), appear at the testing site at the indicated
time, and provide an adequate urine sample.
A student-athlete who does not appear for drug testing, refuses to provide an adequate urine sample, or attempts to
adulterate, manipulate, substitute or intentionally dilute a urine specimen, shall be deemed to have violated the
terms of this policy and such conduct shall be cause for the same action(s) as a positive drug test result for a banned
substance.
The following drug classes may be included in the sample testing through UVM or NCAA testing protocols:
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Stimulants—e.g.cocaine, amphetamine (Adderall), caffeine (guarana), ephedrine, methylphenidate (Ritalin), etc.
Street drugs—marijuana, THC, heroin, synthetic cannabinoids (“spice”, K2, etc.)
Anabolic agents—boldenone, clenbuterol, DHEA, nandrolone, stanozolo, testosterone, androstenedione, etc.
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Diuretics and other masking agents—bumetanide, chlorothiazide, furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide,
probenecid, etc.
Peptide hormones and analogues—human growth hormone (hGH), human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG),
erythropoietin (EPO), etc.
Anti-Estrogens—anastrozole, clomihene, tamoxifen, formestane, etc.
Beta-2 Agonists—bambuterol, formoterol, salbutamol, salmeterol, etc.
Any substance that is chemically related to the class of banned drugs, even if not listed as an example, is also banned.
All samples will be divided into two samples, packaged and sealed in view of the student-athlete. Samples will be
assigned an identification number (no name attached), and forwarded to Mobile Testing Lab for testing. Results will be
forwarded only to the UVM Testing Coordinator. Drug testing records shall be kept in a secure place separate from a
student-athlete's other educational or medical records.
If a sample tests positive for a banned substance, the A sample is tested further to confirm the presence and specific
amounts of the banned substance. If this second test confirms the positive findings, the test will be considered positive.
If the student-athlete wishes to contest these findings, both the A and B samples may be forwarded, upon the studentathlete’s request and at the student-athlete’s expense, to another lab for further testing using gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry methods.
Actions as a Result of Positive Institutional Drug Tests
Any student-athlete who tests positive for a banned substance, or who refuses to submit to or fails to take a required
drug test as described in this policy, shall be subject to the actions listed below and possible additional sanctions as
described in the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct. Positive drug test results and other drug-related offenses are
cumulative throughout a student-athlete’s career at UVM. Multiple violations or positive tests will result in additional
sanctions. A positive NCAA drug test following enrollment at UVM will be considered a positive UVM drug test result.
Upon confirmation of a positive drug test to UVM’s Testing Coordinator, the student-athlete will be required to:
1. Meet with Head Athletic Trainer and/or Team Physician, then Head Coach and Sport Supervisor;
2. Have a mandatory assessment and consult with a staff member in the Center for Health & Wellbeing. Cathy
Rahill, Student-Athlete Development Coordinator, will serve as point of contact within Athletics to manage this
process. Student-athlete should contact Cathy within 72 hours of their meeting with Head Coach. Under the
terms of this policy, a student-athlete testing positive will agree to sign a verification of attendance form so that
the Athletic Department may confirm attendance at the assessment/consult.
3. Abide by recommendations made by the counselor. If ongoing counseling is recommended, a student-athlete
will agree to sign a release to allow the counselor to provide periodic information that the student-athlete is
attending scheduled counseling sessions;
4. Be subject to unannounced testing for the duration of student-athlete’s tenure.
5. Suspension from outside competition at the discretion of the Athletic Director and Head Coach.
Additional sanctions may be applied, depending on circumstances and consistent with the Student-Athlete Code of
Conduct. Possible additional sanctions include but are not limited to:
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Community Service.
Parental Notification. If deemed appropriate by counseling or medical staff.
Temporary Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from all Athletic Department activities, including athletic
participation in team events, for a limited period of time.
Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from all Athletic Department activities, including athletic participation
in team events, for a specified period of no less than one season.
University of Vermont, Department of Athletics
Revised 7/23/2014
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Expulsion. Permanent removal from a team and/or Athletic Department activities.
Withdrawal of Financial Aid. Termination of athletic-related financial aid at first opportunity allowable by NCAA
regulations.
Right to Appeal
Further testing of a positive A sample is built in to the testing procedures. An appeal of a sanction imposed as a result of
a confirmed positive test is available consistent with the appeal process outlined in the Student-Athlete Code of
Conduct—i.e. only in the case of season-long suspension or expulsion from athletics team participation or removal of
athletics-based financial aid.
Medical Exception Process
UVM recognizes that some banned substances are used for legitimate medical purposes. Accordingly, the Department of
Athletics allows exceptions to be made for those student-athletes with a documented medical history demonstrating a
need for regular prescribed use of such a substance. Exceptions may be granted for substances included in the following
classes of banned drugs: stimulants, beta-blockers, diuretics and peptide hormones.
In such a case, the student-athlete is required to inform the Head Athletic Trainer, or designee, of all medications he or
she is taking at the time of the pre-participation screening or at the first opportunity upon a new or altered prescription.
UVM will maintain in the student-athlete’s medical records a letter from the prescribing physician that documents the
student-athlete’s medical history demonstrating the need for regular use of such a drug. The letter should contain
information as to the diagnosis, medical history, dosage information and time when the prescription will expire or no
further refills will be prescribed.
In the event a student-athlete tests positive, the Head Athletic Trainer in consultation with the Team Physician will
review the student-athlete’s medical record to determine whether a medical exception should be granted.
Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning
Manufacturers of nutritional ergogenic supplements often make claims about the beneficial effects of these products
which do not withstand scientific scrutiny. Aside from appropriate hydration and the well-documented positive effect of
a high carbohydrate diet on training, evidence for performance enhancement from most dietary supplements is lacking.
Moreover, the manufacturers of ergogenic supplements are not bound by governmental standards which would require
documentation of the safety and efficacy of these products. Student-athletes are therefore at risk when using products
which, at best, may have no effect on their performance and at worst may subject them to health risks or render them
ineligible for competition.
Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product and its label with your Athletic
Trainer. Dietary supplements are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test result. Any product containing
a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk.
Voluntary Disclosure / Safe Harbor
A student-athlete who has engaged in prohibited drug or alcohol use is encouraged to seek assistance from the Athletic
Department by voluntarily disclosing his or her use to the Head Athletic Trainer or a member of the medical or training
staff. If a student-athlete makes a voluntary disclosure, the following shall apply:
1. If the student-athlete seeks assistance prior to being identified as having violated this policy or being notified
that he or she must undergo screening, the impermissible use will not be deemed an offense for purposes of
determining sanctions under this policy.
University of Vermont, Department of Athletics
Revised 7/23/2014
2. The student-athlete will be required to undergo an evaluation by a substance abuse counselor. The counselor
shall determine the appropriate form(s) of intervention and rehabilitation needed by the student-athlete, based
on the circumstances of the case. The counselor will provide verification of attendance to the Athletic Director
or designee.
3. A student-athlete will be permitted to remain in the Safe Harbor Program for a reasonable period of time, not to
exceed thirty (30) days, as determined by the treatment plan. However, the student-athlete may not be
permitted to return to participation in intercollegiate athletics if the team physician determines there is an
associated health risk, and will only return when it has been determined that reentry into intercollegiate sports
is appropriate.
4. Failing to complete the treatment recommended by the counselor, having a positive test for any banned
substance after entering the Safe Harbor Program, or having a positive result on a reentry drug or alcohol test
will be deemed a second offense under this policy.
5. If the student-athlete regains his or her eligibility to participate in intercollegiate sports, he or she may be
required to undergo unannounced follow-up drug testing at the discretion of the Health & Safety Advisory
Team.
6. These voluntary safe harbor program provisions apply only one time during a student-athlete’s athletic career at
UVM, and only to the first-time disclosure of personal use of prohibited drugs or alcohol by the student-athlete
him/herself and not to any other activity or conduct, whether or not related to the personal use disclosed.
7. Voluntary disclosure of drug use or other prohibited acts under the terms of the UVM Athletics Drug Education
and Testing Policy shall not constitute immunity from University, local, state or federal citations or charges.
University of Vermont, Department of Athletics
Revised 7/23/2014
UNIVERSITY OF VERMONT
DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS
DRUG EDUCATION AND TESTING POLICY
Student-Athlete Consent and Authorization for Release of Information
I hereby acknowledge that I have received a copy of the UVM Athletics Drug Education and Testing Policy. I further
acknowledge that I have read said Policy, that it has been explained to me, and that I fully understand the provisions of
the Policy.
I hereby consent to have samples of my urine collected and tested for the presence of certain banned substances in
accordance with the provisions of the UVM Athletics Drug Education and Testing Policy during the Academic year 201415.
I further authorize UVM Athletics to make a confidential release of any information and records, including drug testing
results, collected and maintained pursuant to this policy, to the appropriate Athletics Department administrator, the
Head Athletic Trainer, to the head coach of any intercollegiate sport in which I am a team member, and to the office or
agency to which I am referred for counseling or treatment. I accordingly waive to that extent any confidential privilege I
may have in connection with such information.
I understand that any urine samples will be sent to a certified analytical laboratory for actual testing. I further
understand that any and all urine samples become the property of the University of Vermont.
The University of Vermont, and its officers, employees, and agents are hereby released from legal responsibility or
liability for the release of such information and records as authorized by this document.
___________________________________
Name of Student (Print)
___________________________________
Signature of Student
___________________________________
Date
Sport(s)
__________________________________________
Signature of Parent/Guardian if student is under 18
University of Vermont, Department of Athletics
Revised 7/23/2014