ATHLETICS MANUAL
FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS
1
INTRODUCTION
Congratulations on becoming a part of the outstanding and respected tradition of Knoch Athletic
Programs. Being a Knoch Athlete is a privilege, and to secure and maintain that privilege,
student-athletes are held to a standard which embodies the highest ideals of sportsmanship and
academic responsibility. Our tradition is one of school pride and dedication to competition. This
tradition has been built over many years by student-athletes who have worked diligently to
become outstanding representatives of Knoch Athletic Programs. Once you elect to become a
Knoch Student-Athlete, you have chosen to hold yourself to a high standard of excellence.
Knoch Athletic Programs strive to compete at a high level with respect for the games we play,
coaches, teammates, officials and opponents. We will work hard towards the common goal of
winning interscholastic competitions while acting with dignity. Our school, our fans and our
families deserve our very best both on and off the field of athletic competition. The history of the
Knoch Knights athletic teams is one of competitiveness, championship seasons and
sportsmanship. What will be the chapter you write in the Knoch book of Athletics? Will you be
the next record holder or section/league champion? More importantly, will you be an
outstanding competitor while being a respected and valued friend, teammate and student while
at Knoch High School?
Being a Knoch Athlete will require your very best. Our teams play at a high level in an extremely
competitive athletic league, the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL).
In order to meet the demands of this level of competition, coaches will organize and structure
pre-season regimens and in-season practices so that you and your team may reach your full
potential. To meet the demands of our proud athletic programs, you must be willing to commit
fully to the responsibilities if being a Knoch Athlete:
1. BE RESPONSIBLE TO YOURSELF
The commitment of a Knoch Athlete is to develop a sense of commitment and pride in all that
you do. You owe it to yourself to be committed to all that you choose to do at Knoch High
School so that when you graduate you will look back on your time as a Knoch Knight with pride
and accomplishment.
2. BE RESPONSIBLE TO KNOCH HIGH/MIDDLE SCHOOL
With the privilege of wearing a Knoch uniforms comes the responsibility of serving as a role
model to young students and the honor of being a proud representative of your school. You will
represent your school and your team not only while coming to school every day, but on our
athletic fields and courts, and at schools all across Western Pennsylvania. Our sports programs
cannot thrive unless you are willing to be at your very best in mind, body and soul. While
wearing the Blue and Gold you will be expected to be at your best in actions and words. Make
yourself a proud representative of Knoch High/Middle School.
3. BE RESPONSIBLE TO OTHERS
As a student-athlete you will be in the public eye and you will have greater scrutiny of your
behavior than many other students. Your family, your friends and the proud fans of Knoch
Athletics want to see you behave in a manner which will make them proud. Make sure your
actions and your work-ethic is one that everyone around you can be proud of.
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KNOCH HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
PHILOSOPHY OF ATHLETICS & ACTIVITIES
The South Butler County School District believes the purpose of interscholastic athletics is to provide learning
experiences that will contribute to the personal, physical and psychological development of the individual student.
These learning experiences will compliment and be consistent with the educational goals of the South Butler School
District. We therefore believe participation in interscholastic athletics serves an important role in meeting the needs of
students within the total educational process.
South Butler athletics are both voluntary and competitive and are designed to meet the needs of student-athletes. In
order to participate, students must be physically healthy, academically qualified, and willing to make a significant
personal commitment to maximize the development of their knowledge, skills, and attitudes relative to the particular
sport.
All athletic teams, clubs and organizations will operate under the leadership and supervision of an effective
coaching/advisory staff committed to accomplishing the educational goals of the school system. Staff members will
employ safe and educationally sound techniques designed to actively promote the development of the student as a
whole person. Also, coaches will be expected to continually improve their instructional techniques through
participation in appropriate professional development programs.
The school administration, especially the Director of Athletics and Activities, will provide a supportive environment for
the coaches and athletes at all levels. All district administrators will be committed to the philosophy stated herein.
Interscholastic athletics will be increasingly competitive as students progress through middle school, junior varsity and
the varsity levels. The earlier levels will serve as developmental programs for the more advanced levels. Team goals
will reflect these goals. Varsity coaches and advisors will work with junior varsity and junior high coaches/advisors to
coordinate the developmental aspects of the program in each particular sport or activity.
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
I.
To complement the primary function of the school; that is, instruction.
II.
To build athletic programs/teams which are a proud and enjoyable parts of our schools.
III.
To represent our schools in a positive and constructive manner at all times.
IV.
To strive for performance excellence that will produce competitive efforts.
V.
To always play the game within the limits of the rules of fair play and sportsmanship.
V.
To provide the opportunities to students:
a. Physical, mental and emotional growth and development
b. Acquisition and development of special skills in activities of his/her choice.
c. Development of desirable traits such as loyalty, cooperation and fair play.
d. Development of leadership skills.
e. Achievement of goals.
f. Worthy use of leisure time.
g. Practice of self-discipline, self-motivation, and fair play.
h. Commitment to team goals over personal effort and recognition.
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KNOCH HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
STUDENT-ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT
The purpose of the following Code of Conduct is promote and protect the physical welfare of
student-athletes and to support the educational and sportsmanship goals and values of the
South Butler School District. Participation in Knoch athletic programs is considered a privilege;
therefore, a student-athlete could forfeit this privilege if any of the following rules and regulations
is violated. Administration, Athletic Director, and Coach will handle violations of these training
rules and regulations. Violations of the Athletic Code of Conduct can result in suspension or
dismissal from the team
Conduct Guidelines
 Be respectful by using appropriate language
 Treat everyone fairly
 Treat everyone with dignity and respect
 Avoid tobacco products or alcoholic beverages
 Avoid the use of performance-enhancing or mind-altering recreational drugs
 Arrive on time for all practices, meetings, and contests
 Play by the rules, demonstrating and encouraging good sportsmanship
 Respect the dignity of others by not sexually harassing or molesting them
 Protect the integrity of the game by not gambling on the sport or having any involvement
with those who do
 Represent your school and self in a manner that reflects self-control
 Avoid stealing equipment or possessions of teammates and opponents
 Respect all school property and property of the schools you visit
 Report any injury or aggravating condition to an athletic trainer or coach
 Understand school rules which govern attendance and athletic participation
 Understand school rules which govern discipline/suspensions and athletic participation
 Comply will all school and team rules and policies
Knoch Student Athlete Pledge:
As a student-athlete, I am a role model. I understand the spirit of fair play while playing hard. I
will refrain from engaging in all types of disrespectful behavior, including inappropriate language,
taunting, and unnecessary physical contact. I know the expectations of my school and of the
PIAA, and hereby accept the responsibility and privilege of representing Knoch High School as a
student athlete
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) Sportsmanship Reminder to Athletes:
Actions meant to demean opposing players, contestants, teams, spectators and officials are
not in the highest ideals of interscholastic competition and will not be tolerated.
Let your conduct reflect mutual respect
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KNOCH HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
PARENT-GUARDIAN GUIDELINES
The South Butler County School District recognizes and appreciates the critical role of
parents/guardians in the lives of our student-athletes. Interscholastic athletics place demands
on students which require extra effort, time and dedication. Students who participate in Knoch
athletics must have the support of their family in order to commit to the rigorous demands of the
sport they are engaged in. Student involvement in athletics most always requires parental
involvement. As your son and daughter become involved in Knoch Athletics we ask that you
adhere to the following guidelines:
Conduct Guidelines
 Let the coaches do the coaching for all team members
 Support the program
 Be your child's best fan
 Encourage your child to talk with the coaches
 Understand and display appropriate game behavior
 Help your child to set goals and priorities
 Keep sport in its proper perspective
 Communicate appropriately and calmly with your child’s coach
 Speak directly to the coach when there is a concern or question at an appropriate time
 Expect regular and clear communication from the coach regarding
 Be aware of school and team rules governing participation
Parent Pledge: As a parent, I acknowledge that I am a role model. I will remember that school
athletics is an extension of the classroom, offering learning experiences for the students. I must
show respect for all players, coaches, spectators, and support groups. I understand the spirit of
fair play and the good sportsmanship expected by our school, and the WPIAL. I hereby accept
my responsibility to be a model of good sportsmanship that comes with being the parent of a
student athlete.
If a parent has a concern to discuss with the coach, the following procedure should be followed:
1. Call or email the coach to set up an appointment.
2. Your son/daughter should first discuss the issue with the coach.
3. Stick to addressing the facts and issues as you understand them
4. Do not confront the coach immediately before, during or immediately after a practice or
contest. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution of the situation, but often
escalate it. District sports, and your son or daughter’s participation in them, is a privilege,
as is attendance at school events. Parent communications that involve an escalated or
confrontational tone, especially if pursued at the aforementioned times, may lead to a
warning/and or ban from district sporting activities. All adults serve as role models for the
student athletes and should conduct themselves in a civil and cooperative manner.
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KNOCH HIGH SCHOOL/MIDDLE SCHOOL
PARENT-GUARDIAN GUIDELINES
What can a parent do if the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution?
1. Call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.
2. At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined as necessary.
Whether or not this step is ever reached, please keep in mind the following protocol when you
elect to pursue a concern you have regarding your son/daughter’s experience in one of our
athletic programs. Please make contact as follows:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Appropriate Grade Level Coach (if applicable)
Head Coach
Athletic Director
Building Principal
Assistant Superintendent
Superintendent
Board of School Directors
ADMINISTRATORS:
Mr. Michael King
Dr. Frank Moxie
Mr. Todd Trofimuk
Athletic Director
Middle School Principal
High School Principal
724-352-1700 ext. 4533
724-352-1700 ext. 3502
724-352-1700 ext. 4524
HEAD COACHES:
SPORT
BASEBALL
BASKETBALL (Girls)
BASKETBALL (Boys)
CHEERLEADING
CROSS COUNTRY
FOOTBALL
GOLF
LACROSSE (Girls)
LACROSSE (Boys)
SOCCER (Girls)
SOCCER (Boys)
TENNIS (Girls)
TENNIS (Boys)
TRACK & FIELD (Girls)
TRACK & FIELD (Boys)
SWIMMING & DIVING
VOLLEYBALL
WRESTLING
COACH
George Bradley
E-MAIL
pahunter1@zoominternet.net
Ron McNabb
Krisann Lambert
Wess Brahler
Mike King
Rob Voltz
Garret Butler
Nathan Barthlow
Rich Kenzie
Malcom Cooke
Nance Conlon
Stephen Carney
Judy Geist
Wess Brahler
Rick Hassler
Diane Geist
Mark McLaughlin
mcnabbr@southbutler.net
lambertk@southbutler.net
brahlerw@southbutler.net
kingm@southbutler.net
voltzr@southbutler.net
butlerg@southbutler.net
n_barthlow@yahoo.com
barnsleylad4949@yahoo.com
cookie_nsss@hotmail.com
nance@zoominternet.net
carneys@southbutler.net
geistj@southbutler.net
brahlerw@southbutler.net
hasslerr@southbutler.net
geistd@southbutler.net
KnochWrestling@zoominternet.net
6
PIAA ELIGIBILITY & POLICIES
A student who participates in interscholastic athletics at a school, which is a member of the
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association, Inc. (P.I.A.A.), must adhere to the P.I.A.A.
eligibility rules for student-athletes. If you fail to comply with the P.I.A.A. rules, you will lose your
eligibility to represent your school in interscholastic athletics. If you participate while ineligible,
your school or team will be penalized. It is, therefore, important for you to be aware of the
requirements to which you are subject.
The information contained here highlights and summarizes the major eligibility requirements you
must meet in order to participate in interscholastic athletics. It does not list every rule or every
detail. Unless otherwise indicated, each requirement applies to grades 7 through 12, inclusive.
The Principal of your school is responsible for certifying the eligibility of all students representing
your school in interscholastic athletics. If you have any questions concerning your athletic
eligibility, you should see your school Principal, who has available a complete copy of all the
P.I.A.A. eligibility rules. Your Principal may also obtain from the appropriate P.I.A.A. District
Committee a formal ruling as to your athletic eligibility.
PIAA AGE LIMIT
There is an age limit on interscholastic competition. You may not have reached your 19th
birthday by June 30 immediately preceding the school year. (The 15th birthday where
competition occurs in grades 7 and 8.)
NO PHYSICAL, NO FORMS, NO PRACTICE
Every student athlete must have a physician's certificate and parent's or guardian's certificate
signed by a licensed physician and the parent or guardian before that student is eligible for
practice or competition. No student may practice or compete until they have fulfilled this
requirement. In addition, all athletes must submit all PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic
Association) required forms in order to be eligible to participate in athletics. Physical forms must
be dated after June 1 preceding the school year of participation. Forms are expected to be
turned in two weeks to the first practice date for ample processing time.
ATTENDANCE & PARTCIPATION
1. You must be regularly enrolled in your school and in full-time attendance there.
2. You are eligible only at the school at which you are enrolled.
3. If you are absent from school during a semester for a total of 20 or more school days,
you will lose your eligibility until you have been in attendance for a total of 60 school
days following your 20th day of absence.
Any student participating in a co-curricular activity must attend school for a minimum half-day
session in order to participate in the co-curricular activity for that day. The South Butler School
District recognizes 10:52 a.m. as the half-day cut off for attendance purposes. In-school and outof-school suspensions are considered absences from school and are applied to the eligibility
requirement.
SUSPENSIONS
Students who are assigned to out-of-school suspension and in-school suspension may not
participate or attend any activity or practice on the days of the suspension. If a suspension is
assigned over the weekend, (ex. Friday, Monday, Tuesday) the student cannot attend or
participate in any activity or practice over the weekend.
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PIAA ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENT
The student athlete must fulfill the requirements of the school, as well as those of the
Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association (PIAA) and/or the Western Pennsylvania
Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL).
In accordance with PIAA rules, (Article X, Section 1), the South Butler County School District
requires that student-athlete must be passing at least four (4) full-credit subjects, or the
equivalent on a weekly basis . Where a student’s cumulative work from the beginning of a
grading period does not as of any Friday meet this standard, the student is ineligible from the
immediate following Sunday through Saturday. Eligibility shall be cumulative from the beginning
of a grading period and reported on a weekly basis. Eligibility for the first grading period is based
on final grades for the preceding school year. Failure to meet this requirement will result in loss
of a student's eligibility for the first ten (10) school days of the next grading period beginning on
the first day report cards are issued.
A student shall be ineligible if he or she has been in attendance more than eight (8) semesters
beyond the eighth grade, or played four seasons beyond the eighth grade in any one form of
interscholastic athletics. Hardship cases may result in an exception to this rule.
The school administration may revoke the privilege of participating in athletics at any time for
disciplinary reasons, flagrant misconduct, poor sportsmanship, and/or excessive absenteeism.
AMATEUR STATUS AND AWARDS
To be eligible to participate in a sport, you must be an amateur in the sport. You will lose your
amateur status in a sport for at least a year if:
1. You, or your school, or an organization which you represent, or your parent or guardian,
receives money or property for or related to your athletic ability, performance,
participation, or services.
2. You accept compensation for teaching, training or coaching in a sport. You may receive
normal and customary compensation for acting as an instructor in or officiating
recreational activities, or for serving as a lifeguard at swimming areas.
You may receive awards only from your school, the sponsor of an athletic event, the news
media, or a non-profit service organization approved by your school Principal. Permissible
awards are a sweater, jacket, blazer, blanket, shirt, shorts, jersey, cap, watch, ring, scroll,
photograph, medal, plaque, or similar trophy, which must bear appropriate organizational
insignia or comparable identification.
CONSENT OF PARENT OR GUARDIAN
You are eligible only if there is on file with the Principal of your school, before you begin
practice, an official P.I.A.A. certificate signed by your parent or guardian consenting to your
participation in the particular sport involved.
PRE-PARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EVALUATION
You are eligible only if you have participated in a pre-participation physical evaluation performed
by a licensed physician of medicine or osteopathic medicine, a physician assistant certified, a
certified registered nurse practitioner, or a school nurse practitioner before your first sports
season’s first practice day of that school year. Before each subsequent sports season’s first
practice day of that same school year, you must be certified that your condition is satisfactory
before you commence to practice for the sport.
8
Wrestlers must also obtain from the physician, physician assistant certified, registered nurse
practitioner, or school nurse practitioner, prior to the first practice day, a certification of the
minimum weight classification at which they may wrestle for the entire season.
In all cases, the medical examiner must have signed the P.I.A.A. Medical Examiner’s Certificate.
TRANSFERS
You are treated as having transferred whenever you change schools, even if you are out of
school for a period of time before entering the new school.
Except as provided below, if you transfer from one school district to another you are eligible
immediately at the new school:
1. When you live with your natural or adoptive parents in the new school district.
2. When you live with a court-appointed legal guardian in the new school district, upon
approval of the P.I.A.A. District Committee.
If you transfer between schools, you will be eligible immediately as to fall sports, provided the
transfer is made between the completion of the previous school year at your school and the first
practice day for fall sports at your next school, and, as to winter and spring sports, the transfer is
made between completion of the previous school year at your school and the beginning of the
next school year at your next school.
If you transfer from one school to another in whole or in part for any athletic purpose you will
lose your athletic eligibility in each sport in which you participate within a period of 1 year
immediately preceding the date on which you transferred. This requirement applies even if you
would otherwise be eligible at the school to which you transferred.
Most students who are not eligible immediately will be ineligible for one year from the date of
transfer in each sport in which they participated within one year preceding the date of transfer.
PERIOD OF TIME AFTER EIGHTH GRADE, PARTICIPATION, AND GRADE REPETITION
1.
2.
3.
You will lose your eligibility when you have reached the end of your fourth consecutive
year beyond the eighth grade. If you repeat a grade after eighth, you will be ineligible as
a senior.
You may participate a maximum of six seasons in each sport during grades seven
through twelve, a maximum of four seasons in each sport during grades nine through
twelve, and a maximum of three seasons in each sport during grades seven through
nine.
You may participate only one season in each sport during each school year.
OUTSIDE PARTICIPATION
If you participate as an individual or a member of a team in a non-school athletic program, while
enrolled at a school which has a team in that sport, you will be eligible for the playoffs in that
sport only if you are in uniform and available to participate as a member of your school team for
at least 75 percent of its regular season contests.
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PARTICIPATION IN MORE THAN ONE SPORT/ACTIVITY DURING A SEASON
The South Butler County School District recognizes and supports the desire of some students to
participate in more than one sport/activity. If a student is interested in doing so, they should
contact their respective coaches/advisors and the director of athletics to formulate a plan so that
involvement in both sports/activities can be accommodated. Coaches and player will work
towards clear communication of practice and contest times so that those students who wish to
participate in 2 activities may have an opportunity to do so. Students should understand that
missing substantial practice or contest time from one or the other activity/sport may lead to a
having to make the decision to choose one activity over the other.
ALL-STAR CONTESTS AND NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL/INTERSCHOLASTIC CHAMPIONSHIPS
You will lose your eligibility in a sport for one year if you participate in an all-star contest in that
sport or if you participate in a contest to qualify for and/or determine a single national high
school/interscholastic individual champion or championship team in that sport.
OUT-OF-SEASON PARTICIPATION
Almost all P.I.A.A. sports have a defined season. If your team conducts practice and/or plays a
contest outside that P.I.A.A. defined season, your school will be penalized.
SCHOOL POLICIES ON HAZING, HARASSMENT & BULLYING
The South Butler School District has established policies prohibiting hazing, bullying &
harassment. Specifically:
A. POLICY 247- HAZING
“Hazing activities of any type are inconsistent with the educational goals of the district
and prohibited at all times. Any hazing activity, whether by an individual or group, shall
be presumed to be a forced activity, even if a student willingly participates. Hazing is
defined as any activity that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental health,
physical health, or safety of a student for the purpose of initiation or membership in or
affiliation with any group or organization directly or indirectly affiliated with, associated
with, or comprised of students and in any way associated with the school district.”
B. POLICY252- BULLYING & CYBER-BULLYING
“ Bullying means an intentional electronic, written, verbal, or physical act or series of acts
directed at another student or students, which occurs in a school setting and/or outside a
school setting.
Bullying shall mean unwelcome verbal, written or physical conduct including, but not
limited to: slurs, jokes, hazing, or other verbal, graphic or physical contact, relating to an
individual’s race, color, religion, ancestry, gender, national origin, age,
handicap/disability, sexual preference, or personage directed at a student by another
student that has the intent or effect of:
I. Physically, emotionally, or mentally harming a student
II. Damaging, extorting or taking a student’s personal property
III. Placing a student in reasonable fear of damage to or loss of personal property
IV. Placing a student in reasonable fear of physical, emotional or mental harm
V. Creating an intimidating or hostile environment that substantially interferes with
a student’s educational opportunities
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All forms of bullying and cyber bullying by district students are herby prohibited. Anyone
who engages in bullying or cyber bullying in violation of this policy shall be subject to
appropriate discipline”.
C. POLICY 252- UNLAWFUL HARASSMENT
“Harassment shall consist of verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct relating to an
individual's race, color, national origin/ethnicity, gender, age, disability, or religion
when such conduct:
1. Is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it affects an individual's ability to
participate in or benefit from an educational program or activity or creates an
intimidating, threatening or abusive educational environment.
2. Has the purpose or effect of substantially or unreasonably interfering with an
individual's academic performance.
3. Otherwise adversely affects an individual's learning opportunities.
“Sexual harassment shall consist of unwelcome sexual advances; requests for sexual
favors; and other inappropriate verbal, written, graphic or physical conduct of a sexual
nature when:
1.Submission to such conduct is made explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of a
student's academic status.
2. Submission to or rejection of such conduct is used as the basis for academic
or work decisions affecting the individual.
3.Such conduct deprives a student of educational aid, benefits, services or
treatment.
4. Such conduct is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it has the
purpose or effect of substantially interfering with the student's school
performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive educational
environment.
The Board prohibits all forms of unlawful harassment of students and third parties by
all district students and staff members, contracted individuals, vendors, volunteers,
and third parties in the schools. The Board encourages students and third parties who
have been harassed to promptly report such incidents to the designated employees.
SCHOOL POLICY ON CONCUSSIONS (123.1)
During the first weeks of the respective athletic season(s), in conjunction with and
under the guidance of the approved athletic training services provider, the rosters of
all interscholastic athletes and cheerleaders will be reviewed to ensure they have
undergone baseline concussion testing. Athletes and cheerleaders will be required to
have the baseline testing done at least every two (2) years. The approved athletic
training provider will maintain and update a database of all athletes/cheerleaders to
ensure each has been tested within the designated time frames and the parameters of
the policy. Students in school sponsored activities, as determined by the
Superintendent and athletic director, will be administered a baseline concussion test.
Athletes in club sports, while not mandated by policy to undergo the baseline test,
may be tested at their own cost. The purpose of the test is to establish a pre11
concussion baseline of cognitive memory and reaction time. If the student athlete
refuses to complete the baseline testing, he/she will not be able to participate in any
practice, contest or team activity.
All students who undergo the baseline test will be provided information regarding
concussions, the purpose of the test, and post-concussion procedures. Parents will
receive annual notice of the tests.
Each year coaches shall complete a concussion management certification training
course as determined by the athletic director. A coach shall not coach an athletic
activity until the training course is completed. Failure to complete the training course
will result in suspensions in accordance with state law. Information regarding
concussions will be shared by the coaches and/or trainers during annual parent
meetings
Post Concussion
Any time a student athlete sustains or is suspected of sustaining a concussion during
his/her athletic career, s/he will again be administered the test by the approved
athletic trainers; the test will be conducted as soon as appropriate, which is usually
within forty-eight (48) hours, of the suspected concussion; then on a weekly basis as
advised by the approved athletic training services provider staff. If school is not in
session, the parent/guardian will be advised to seek medical attention if symptoms
persist or increase in intensity. The student athlete’s parent/guardian will be provided
with a copy of the “HEAD INJURY INFORMATION” form, outlining the signs and
symptoms of concussion. The results of the subsequent test(s) will be compared to
the Baseline results, and a determination will be made by the staff at the approved
athletic training services provider regarding the ability of the student athlete to return
to competition.
No student-athlete who sustains a concussion will be eligible to participate in any
sport or physical education class until s/he is given written approval by a physician.
The written approval shall be documented, including the date and time, name of
athlete, return to play date, physician providing instructions, and physician’s signature
Any medical attention sought by students/parents either required or recommended by
this policy shall be at the sole cost and expense of the student and his/her parent or
guardian.
Coordination Of Post-Concussion Care With School Personnel
Copies of all concussion test results and all ongoing recommendations received from
the approved athletic training services provider will be provided to the parents to
confer with their PCP for continuity of care between the student-athlete and school
personnel. After the student-athlete is evaluated by a physician, and has a confirmed
diagnosis of concussion, the student-athlete’s parents will be responsible for providing
a copy of any/all academic accommodations and activity restrictions to the school
nurse assigned to the affected student’s building. The school nurse will then
coordinate services and supports with appropriate administrators, faculty members,
and staff members to meet the student’s physical and academic needs as indicated.
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CONDUCT/SPORTSMANSHIP
Student-athletes who are good sports are positive role models within our school and the
community at large. A good sport knows that athletic competition builds character and shapes
lifetime attitudes. You, in turn, experience additional educational and leadership benefits that
come from participation in sports.
Integrity, fairness and respect – these are the principles of good sportsmanship. With them, the
spirit of competition thrives, fueled by honest rivalry, courteous relations, and graceful
acceptance of the results.
Working to that end, we join with the PIAA to support a program called “Sportsmanship: The
only missing piece is you!” This is a program designed to positively change behavior in our
schools and reinforce and reward the need for sportsmanship as one of the values taught
through educational athletics.
As an athlete at our school, your sportsmanship goals should include:
Developing a sense of dignity under all circumstances
• Respecting the rules of the game, the officials who administer the rules and their decisions
• Respecting opponents as fellow students and acknowledging them for striving to do their
best while you seek to do your best at the same time
• Looking at athletic participation as a potentially beneficial learning experience, whether you
win or lose
• Educating other students and fans to understand the rules of the contest, and the value of
sportsmanship
• Accepting the personal responsibility that comes with your actions during competition. You
are the spokesperson for our school when you represent us in athletic competition.
Family and friends, opposing fans, the local community and the media, view your actions.
Your display of good sportsmanship will show the most positive things about you and our
school and will remind us all that in the end, sports are meant to be fun.
Disruptive or violent behavior may result in removal from the team. Suspension or removal from
the team and/or referral to the appropriate building administrator may be the result of the
student’s inappropriate and/or disruptive behavior during practices/games.
CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE POLICY
The foundation of the District’s Controlled Substances Policy (227) is the belief that students and
the entire school community benefit educationally, socially and personally when the entire
student body is free of all types of chemical dependence. Violation of the District’s Controlled
Substance Policy will result in the suspension or expulsion of the student violator from school.
A student shall not manufacture, knowingly or intentionally possess, use, consume, be under the
influence of, offer for sale, possess with the intent to sell or distribute, transport, assist in the
concealment of, dispose of, or dispense any drug, contraband, controlled substance and/or any
paraphernalia related to the following:
•
On district property before, during, and after school hours
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•
•
•
•
On district property during a school-and/or district–sponsored approved activity,
function or event
Away from district property during a school-and/or district–sponsored approved
activity, function or event
On a school bus traveling to/from a school-and/or district–sponsored approved
activity, function or event
The use of a drug/contraband/controlled substance authorized by a licensed
physician must be registered with the school nurse, or it will be considered a
violation of this policy
INSTRUCTIONS TO STUDENT-ATHLETES
1. Athletes will not be permitted in any area of the building after school except those
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
areas designated by the Coaches or Athletic Director.
Athletes should report immediately to the locker rooms or designated area after the
dismissal bell in the afternoon.
No practice arrangements, formal or informal, are permitted without the presence of
supervisory coaching personnel.
Students are not to remain after school unless Coaches are present.
Athletic shoes with spikes are not to be worn in the building.
Athletes are to leave their automobiles in the designated student parking areas.
You may not practice without all properly signed physical forms returned to the
school nurse.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION
No student in the South Butler School District will be permitted to participate or practice in any
interscholastic sport unless he has been given a complete physical examination and declared fit
for participation. The record of this physical examination shall be kept on the form provided
(P.I.A.A. Physical Form). The Athletic Director will arrange dates for physical examinations for a
nominal fee prior to each season. If you are unable to get a physical on one of these dates, it is
your responsibility to obtain a physical on your own at your own expense. Exams may be done
by your medical doctor or doctor of osteopathy. Physical forms are available at both the high
school and middle school as well as on the District’s website — www.southbutler.org
ATHLETIC INSURANCE
All students who participate in school sponsored extracurricular activities are required, as a
condition for such participation, to be covered by accident insurance that would cover hospital
and medical costs in the event of accidental injury while so participating. The parents should
provide an insurance waiver attesting to such coverage. Student accident insurance made
available annually by the school district (24-hour coverage) is sufficient for students participating
in all activities except football. Information regarding purchase of student accident insurance is
available by contacting the business office.
TRANSPORTATION
Transportation is provided by the school district to away competitions. A bus will take the team
from the middle or high school to the host school. When the game is completed, the team will
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be returned to the school where they were picked up. It is the parent’s responsibility to pick
their child up when they return. Please be prompt when picking your child up after a game or
practice.
It is the intention of the school that all teams travel to and from an event together. In the event of
a true emergency, a parent should write a note to be given to the coach releasing the school
from responsibility.
The conduct of students riding buses shall be above reproach. Any breach of proper conduct
will be enforced by suspension of his/her transportation privileges.
FINANCIAL OBLIGATION FOR ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT
The South Butler School District issues athletic equipment/uniforms to each athlete at the
beginning of the season. You are financially responsible for the safe return of all
equipment/uniforms at the end of the season.
CANCELLATION OF PRACTICE/COMPETITIONS DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER
If a game must be cancelled due to inclement weather, it is the responsibility of the host school
to make that decision and inform the visiting school. However, if school is cancelled by the
South Butler School School District, all competitions, practices and extra-curricular activities are
also cancelled. (Unless administrative approval is given.) Make-up games are scheduled
depending on the current schedules of both schools.
ATHLETIC TRAINER
When an injury of consequence occurs that might require medical attention please notify the
Coach and/or the Athletic Trainer. The Athletic Trainers are available in the training room daily
from 1:00pm – 3:15pm. After 3:15, our training staff is on-call until all practices are completed.
In addition, our trainers are in attendance at all home varsity competitions and junior high
competitions, schedule permitting, and
Any time a student is seen by a doctor or has been recommended to be seen by a doctor as a
result of a possible injury, a medical release MUST be provided by the doctor to the Coach
and/or the Athletic Trainer before the student may resume participation.
RECRUITING & SCHOLARSHIPS
All student athletes who are very interested in participating in college athletics should have a
meeting with their high school coaches at the end of their junior season to discuss your potential
as a NCAA Division I, II or III player. Do not be afraid to ask for their help. Your coach will help
you, but there are limitations as to how much he can do. There are over 3000 colleges and
universities that offer athletic programs. Contacting each and every one of them is impossible
for your coach. The levels of play are described below
National Collegiate Athletic Association
NCAA Division I
This is the highest level of play and they offer the most
scholarships. These are the large schools with large student
populations.
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NCAA Division II
Smaller specialty schools that provide scholarships, as well as
financial aid and grants.
NCAA Division III
No athletic scholarships, but many high school graduates receive
academic scholarships, financial aid, grants, and jobs on campus,
also known as work-study.
Are you good enough to participate at the college level? Build a support group that can give
you good sound advice that would consist of your parents, coaches, principals, athletic director
and community members that have participated in college athletics that have seen you play.
There is no substitute for the college playing experience. These people know what it takes to
play at the next level.
Once you have set your goals for college athletics begin to market yourself. You can only be
offered a college scholarship if a college coach or scout has an opportunity to see you play.
This is where you need to begin to market yourself to the colleges of your choice.
1. Go to the guidance office, athletic office or the Internet and obtain addresses of the
colleges that you would be interested in attending.
2. Prepare a letter to be sent to the college coaches.
3. Prepare a resume` of your career.
4. Prepare a highlight tape and game tape to send with the resume`.
Please visit the NCAA Eligibility Center at: http://web1.ncaa.org/ECWR2/NCAA_EMS/NCAA.jsp
Send the information before your senior season. The best advice would be to send it
immediately after the signing of the last recruiting season ahead of you.
The majority of the colleges will send you a questionnaire; complete it and return it to the
colleges immediately.
If you are an outstanding student you will have opportunities to obtain athletic and academic
scholarships. Many of the top academic universities have stringent minimum academic
entrance requirements where many athletes cannot qualify. Talk with your guidance
counselor/coach to obtain the names of academic universities in which you may obtain an
athletic scholarship. This is a great opportunity for you if you are an outstanding student.
It is suggested that you attend a summer camp to increase the chances of your being noticed.
You will have the opportunity to perform in front of the college coaching staff for four or five
days. Your high school coach can help you obtain information for summer camps.
If all else fails you have the opportunity to walk on at the college of your choice and have the
chance to earn a college scholarship later. It is very feasible to walk on a team and earn a
partial or full scholarship for your remaining years if you become a starter.
College coaches are looking for all around athletic ability first. They look for coordination, speed
and jumping ability, size and strength. College coaches recognize that superior all around
athletes are usually good at a variety of sports. Just by participating in different sports, you are
showing scouts that you have some unique gifts, unique because most young athletes can
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barely excel at one sport, much less two or three. If you are a standout at two or three sports,
then you are a special talent.
EARNING THE KNOCH VARSITY “K”
Requirements for earning an athletic letter will be determined by the Athletic Director and the
Head Coach of the respective sport. Coaches are required to submit their varsity letter award
procedure to the athletic office for approval. After the season, students should stop by the
athletic office to obtain the necessary information to order a varsity jacket on-line. Sample
jackets are available in the Athletic Office for sizing and jackets take 4 weeks for delivery.
Procedures of Awarding Varsity Athletic Letters
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All athletes must comply with the athletic Knoch Athletics Code of Conduct
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An athlete must conform to the head coach’s rules for that given sport.
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Athletes must adhere to district and coach’s attendance policy
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The athlete must have returned all school issued equipment as noted by his/her coach
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Only one letter will be awarded to any given player per sport.
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Certificates will be awarded the in first two years and plaques will be awarded the third
and fourth years. Sport specific pins will be awarded for every year lettered

Replacement pins can be purchased in the athletic office for $1.00

All athletes must complete the season/post-season in good standing with the program
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KNOCH ATHLETICS GOVERNANCE
1. Board of Education
The Board of Education, responsible to the residents of the District, is the ruling agency
for the South Butler School District. It is responsible for interpreting the needs of the
community and requirements. Additional responsibilities include:
a. Developing policies in accordance with state statutes and mandates in
accordance with the educational needs and wishes of the people
b. Approving means by which professional staff may make these policies effective
c. Evaluating the interscholastic athletic program in terms of its value to the
community
2. Superintendent of Schools
The Superintendent is responsible to administer the schools according to adopted
policies of the Board of Education, rules and regulations of the State Department of
Education, and in accordance with state school code. It is his/her duty to establish a
definite school athletic policy and to have an understanding of the policy. The
Superintendent shall represent the school district as its chief executive officer and its
foremost professional educator in its dealings with other school systems, social
institutions and businesses.
3. Principals
The Principal is the official representative of the school and is directly responsible for the
general attitude of the student body and the conduct of the athletic affairs by the Athletic
Director and the Coach. By delegation and by established precedent, the school
Principal is the official school representative in matters dealing with Knoch High School
& Middle School Athletics and conference affiliations. The Principal is solely responsible
for any official action taken by his/her school.
4. Athletic Director
The Athletic Director is directly responsible to the Principal. The primary responsibility of
the Athletic Director is the administration and supervision of the interscholastic athletic
program in the South Butler School District. The Athletic Director’s duties will be those
described in his/her job description and any others as designated. He/she will provide
the leadership necessary for the day-to-day operation of the athletic department.
5. Head Coaches
All head Coaches shall be responsible to the Athletic Director for the total operation of
their respective sports programs. Head Coaches will be responsible for the normal
duties required of interscholastic competition, those duties described in the Coaches’ job
description, and/or any duties delegated by the Athletic Director.
If you experience a problem or have any concerns regarding your child’s athletic
experience, you should follow the chain of command, first contacting your child’s
Coach. If you are not satisfied with the response you get from your Coach, then you
should contact the Athletic Director and thusly through the chain of command.
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THE PENNSYLVANIA INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (P.I.A.A.)
All schools are voluntary members of the P.I.A.A. As a member school district, Knoch agrees to
abide by and enforce all rules and regulations promulgated by this association.
The primary role of the state association is to maintain rules and regulations that ensure equity
in competition for the student/athletes and a balance with other educational programs. The
association solicits input and is responsive to requests for rule modification from member
schools, appointed committees, and coaches’ associations.
The state association attempts to enforce such rules that assure the greatest good for the
greatest number and to ensure that competition is conducted in an appropriate manner.
THE NATIONAL FEDERATION OF STATE HIGH SCHOOL ASSOCIATIONS (N.F.H.S.)
The N.F.H.S. consists of the fifty-one individual state high school athletic and/or activities
associations. The purposes of the N.F.H.S. are to serve, protect, and enhance the interstate
activity interests of the high schools belonging to state associations; to assist in those activities
of state associations which can best be operated on a nationwide scale; to sponsor meetings,
publications and activities which will permit each state association to profit by the experience of
all other member associations; and to coordinate the work to minimize duplication.
The N.F.H.S. is both a service and regulatory agency. The growth and influence of state
associations and the N.F.H.S. ensures some degree of team work on the part of more than
20,000 schools and enables them to formulate policies for the improvement of interscholastic
activities.
THE ATHLETIC LEAGUE (W.P.I.A.L.)
Knoch High School and Middle School are voluntary members of the Western Pennsylvania
Interscholastic Athletic League (W.P.I.A.L.). This league was established to encourage member
schools to improve their co-curricular program in athletics. The conference membership
facilitates the arranging of schedules, equalizing competition, and conducting league meets and
determining league championships. The conference provides Knoch High School the
opportunity for competition without excessive travel and with schools of similar size and athletic
philosophy. Membership implies abiding by conference schedules, rules and regulations.
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