Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Letter from the Athletics Director
History of Georgia College
Athletics Mission & Vision Statement
Code of Conduct Statement
NCAA Information
Peach Belt Information
GC Athletics Academic Policies & Procedures
GC Athletics Social Media & Related Policies
NCAA Rules & Compliance Guide
GC Athletic Training
GC Athletics Drug Testing Policies
GC Sports Information
GC Athletics weight room
Staff Directory
Student-athlete Confirmation Page
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Page
2
3
4-5
6
6
7-8
9-13
14-17
18-19
20-22
23-27
28-31
32
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Dear Student-Athlete:
We are pleased that you are a student at Georgia College and a member of the Bobcat family.
You are fortunate to participate in a program that has a long history of academic, social, and
athletic excellence.
As a representative of Georgia College, we ask that you do your best to represent your
University, your teammates and coaching staff, the Department of Athletics, and yourself with
the utmost respect. Do what is right, do the best you can, and treat others like you would like to
be treated is a good model to live by.
Your rights and responsibilities as a student-athlete are outlined in this handbook. I encourage
you to get familiar with this information.
We look forward to another outstanding year.
Sincerely,
Wendell Staton
Athletics Director
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
I. Georgia College
A. History of the University
Founded in 1889 as a public college for women; Today a model liberal arts university
1889 Due to the lobbying efforts of Julia Flisch, a journalist in Augusta, support builds to establish a
publicly funded college for women that would prepare them for the demands of the new industrial
age. In 1889, the Georgia Normal & Industrial College is chartered as a two-year college
emphasizing teacher training and business skills.
1891 Classes begin in the newly constructed Main building (lost to fire in 1924) and the students
lived in the Old Governor's Mansion. The main campus is primarily located on "Penitentiary Square,"
the site of the former Georgia State Penitentiary (1818-1879). In all, the campus totals 22 acres.
1906 J. Harris Chappell, the first president, steps down due to illness, and the dynamic Marvin M.
Parks assumes the reins of governance.
1917 Due to President Park's persistent advocacy, the college receives authority to grant four-year
degrees and establishes its clear independence from the University of Georgia.
1922 Georgia Normal & Industrial College changes to Georgia State College for Women. As a
teacher's college, courses include psychology, home economics, English, math, art, science,
recreation and music.
1934 The first student government association forms at the college. Compulsory uniforms are soon
abolished.
1935 In order to boost student morale, Dean of Women Ethel Adams initiates a spirited theatrical
competition between freshmen and sophomores that becomes known as "Golden Slipper;" until the
1970s, this endures as one of the college's most popular traditions.
1938 Student numbers peak at 1,500.
1942 Mary Flannery O'Connor, as fellow students call her, enters as a freshman and graduates three
years later. One of the most noted Southern writers, her works are housed in the Special Collections
area of the Library and Information Technology Center.
1943 GSCW is selected as one of four colleges for the training of Navy WAVES. For the next two
years, 15,000 women receive training on the campus in storekeeping and clerical duties for the U.S.
Navy.
1949 Enrollment sinks to 848 and then to a low of 585 in 1953. The majority of post-War women
tend to prefer coeducational colleges.
1957 The college begins its first graduate program, a Master of Education degree.
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1961 Georgia State College for Women is officially renamed The Woman's College of Georgia.
1964 Funds are appropriated for the first adequate renovation of the Governor's Mansion. The work is
completed in 1967.
1964 Celestine Hill, the first African-American student, enters the Woman's College.
1967 The Woman's College of Georgia becomes coeducational and receives a new name, Georgia
College at Milledgeville. In the fall, 185 men join the campus of 1,216 women.
1971 Georgia College at Milledgeville becomes Georgia College.
1975 Total enrollment grows to 3,770.
1981 The college begins a five-year plan to become a multi-campus university which includes a
commitment to the "computer era."
1987 An educational exchange is established with the People's Republic of China. This begins, in
part, a revival of international interaction through study abroad and exchange programs.
1989 The college's 100th year anniversary is marked with the opening of the Centennial Center,
which serves the campus as a wellness center and gym.
1996 The Georgia Board of Regents officially charges the institution with its new mission as
"Georgia's public liberal arts university" and bestows the sixth name--"Georgia College & State
University."
2004 Major dormitory construction is completed as five new buildings open near the main campus to
serve more than 1,100 students. In addition, West Campus, the area where the athletic fields are
located, becomes home to Bobcat Village, an apartment complex for upperclassmen and women.
2004 With help from the Georgia General Assembly and the Woodruff Foundation, a painstaking
restoration of the Old Governor's Mansion is completed as a historic house museum, interpreted in
the years 1851-1853.
2005 The newly expanded and renovated Library and Instructional Technology Building is dedicated.
2005 Renovation of the former First Methodist Church as the new Student Activities Center is
completed; the centerpiece is the Magnolia Room, an elegant center for events and gatherings.
Today, Georgia College serves more than 6,600 undergraduate and graduate students in four schools
with a faculty of 300. In addition to the Milledgeville campus, Georgia College provides the Center
for Graduate and Professional Learning in downtown Macon, graduate programs at Robins AFB, and
online courses.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Athletics Department Mission Statement
The mission of Georgia College Department of Athletics is to promote and monitor the educational
achievement and personal growth of student-athletes; to conduct an athletics program that protects
and enhances the physical and education welfare of student-athletes; to provide fair and equitable
opportunity for all student-athletes and staff participating in intercollegiate sport activities, regardless
of gender or ethnicity; to promote the principles of good sportsmanship and honesty in compliance
with University, State, National Collegiate Athletic Association and Peach Belt Conference
regulations; to conduct a competitive athletics program that promotes faculty, staff, student and
community affiliation with the University and to serve the community through outreach activities
which positively reflect the University and promote good will in the community. Georgia College
Athletics promotes the 3 R’s: Reason, Respect, and Responsibility. Athletics serves the University’s
mission of enhancing the quality of the student experience. Our programs entertain and enrich the
University community and the people of Central Georgia and beyond, therefore contributing to the
outreach mission of the university.
Department of Athletics Vision Statement
The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics strives to be a model NCAA Division II program while
renowned for academic excellence through outstanding graduation rates and scholastic honors.
Athletics provides exceptional value and benefit to the mission of the University and community.
demonstrates unrivaled pride and foster relationships with all constituents. The athletic department is
committed to the utmost integrity through NCAA rules compliance, fiscal responsibility and studentathlete personal development while striving to earn recognition as a national level program through
all sports participating in post-season competition.
GC Athletic Code of Conduct Statement
As a student-athlete representing GC, both on and off the field of play, I am aware of my
responsibility to always conduct myself in such a way that brings honor to the University. The
opportunity to be a student-athlete is a privilege and I realize that I must uphold the core values that
the University as well as the Athletics mission.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Athletics Governing Associations
National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA)
The NCAA has three competitive divisions - Divisions I, II and III. Georgia College competes in
Division II in all sports.
There are two primary purposes of the NCAA:
a.
To sponsor national championship competition and
b.
To promulgate and enforce rules and regulations governing the academic and
athletic eligibility of student-athletes and the conduct of athletics
programs.
NCAA INFORMATION
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is a voluntary association of about 1,200
colleges and universities, athletic conferences and sports organizations devoted to the sound
administration of Intercollegiate athletics. Through the NCAA, member schools and conferences
develop guidelines for athletic issues on a national scale. Volunteer representatives from these
schools and conferences establish rules that govern the Association and programs designed to further
its purposes and goals.
The National Collegiate Athletic Association's purposes are:
 To initiate, stimulate and improve intercollegiate athletics programs for student-athletes
and to promote and develop educational leadership, physical fitness, athletics excellence
and athletics participation as a recreational pursuit.
 To uphold the principle of institutional control of, and responsibility for, all
intercollegiate sports in conformity with the constitution and bylaws of the Association.
 To encourage its members to adopt eligibility rules to comply with satisfactory standards
of scholarship, sportsmanship and amateurism.
 To formulate, copyright and publish rules of play governing intercollegiate athletics.
 To preserve intercollegiate athletics records.
 To supervise the conduct of, and to establish eligibility standards for, regional and
national athletics events under the auspices of the Association.
 To legislate, through bylaws or by resolutions of a Convention, upon any subject of
general concern to the members related to the administration of intercollegiate athletics.
 To study in general all phases of competitive intercollegiate athletics and establish
standards whereby the colleges and universities of the United States can maintain their athletics
programs on a high level.
NCAA DIVISION II PHILOSOPHY
Members of Division II believe that a well-conducted intercollegiate athletics program, based on
sound educational principles and practices, is a proper part of the educational mission of a University
or college and that the educational welfare of the participating student-athlete is of primary concern.
The NCAA Division II Platform is based around six components:
 Passion
 Balance
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
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Sportsmanship
Learning
Resourcefulness
Service
Members of Division II support the following principles in the belief that these objectives assist in
defining the division and the possible differences between it and other divisions of the Association.
This statement shall serve as a guide for the preparation of legislation by the division and for
planning and implementation of programs by institutions and conferences.
A member of Division II:
 Believes in promoting the academic success of its student-athletes, measured in part by an
institution's student-athletes graduating at least at the same rate as the institution's student
body;
 Believes that participation in intercollegiate athletics benefits the educational experience of its
student-athletes and the entire campus community;
 Believes in offering opportunities for intercollegiate athletics participation consistent with the
institution's mission and philosophy;
 Believes in preparing student-athletes to be good citizens, leaders and contributors in their
communities;
 Believes in striving for equitable participation and competitive excellence, encouraging
sportsmanship and ethical conduct, enhancing diversity and developing positive societal
attitudes in all of its athletics endeavors;
 Believes in scheduling the majority of its athletics competition with other members of Division
II, insofar as regional qualification, geographical location and traditional or conference
scheduling patterns permit;
 Recognizes the need to "balance" the role of the athletics program to serve both the campus
(participants, student body, faculty/staff) and the general public (community, area, state);
 Believes in offering opportunity for participation in intercollegiate athletics by awarding
athletically related financial aid to its student-athletes;
 Believes that institutional control is a fundamental principle that supports the educational
mission of a Division II institution and assumes presidential involvement and commitment.
All funds supporting athletics should be controlled by the institution. The emphasis for an
athletics department should be to operate within an institutionally approved budget, and
compliance with and self-enforcement of NCAA regulations is an expectation of membership;
and believes that all members of Division II should commit themselves to this philosophy and
to the regulations and programs of Division II.
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Peach Belt Conference (PBC)
The idea for formation of a NCAA Division II conference was discussed in November 1988, in
Greenville, S.C. with 11 schools represented at the meeting. Five of the colleges at that first meeting,
along with two other schools, formed the new conference when USC-Aiken hosted another meeting
on December 3, 1989. The seven charter members were Armstrong State University, Columbus State
University, Francis Marion University, Georgia College & State University, Lander University, USCAiken and USC-Spartanburg. The name Peach Belt Athletic Conference was adopted in January
1990.
Augusta State University applied and was accepted in November 1990. Now the Peach Belt
Conference had four members each in Georgia and South Carolina. On July 1, 1992, Pembroke State
University officially became a member. Kennesaw State University became the tenth member on
July 1, 1994. Clayton State University was admitted on July 1, 1995, and University of North Florida
was admitted to the Conference officially on July 1, 1997.
Commissioner’s Office
503 Blackburn Drive
Martinez, GA 30907
Commissioner
David Brunk
(706) 860-8499
The Peach Belt Conference is committed to providing through its dependent collegiate members, a
forum for student participation in athletic, academic, and co-curricular events under the auspices of
the National Collegiate Athletic Association, Division II.
The Peach Belt, one of the elite conferences in Division II, is comprised of 13 member institutions.
The conference sponsors championships in 13 sports. Men's champions are declared in baseball,
basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, and tennis. Women’s champions are declared in basketball,
cross country, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, and volleyball.
Peach Belt Conference Members:
 Armstrong Atlantic State University
 Augusta State University
 Clayton State University
 Columbus State University
 Flagler College
 Francis Marion University
 Georgia College
 Georgia Southwestern State University
 Lander University
 University of Montevallo
 North Georgia College & State University
 University of North Carolina at Pembroke
 University of South Carolina at Aiken
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
B. Peach Belt Conference Code of Conduct
Each Peach Belt institution is responsible for creating an atmosphere that promotes good
sportsmanship and a hospitable environment for visiting teams and spectators. Facility design,
student body makeup, and many other factors influence the ambience on any given campus.
Consequently, each institution should design the specifics of its own Code of Conduct incorporating
the principles and guidelines of the Peach Belt Code of Conduct.
All hosts and guests of Peach Belt athletic events are expected to adhere to the following general
principles:




Respect the rights and dignity of all persons.
Strive to insure the personal safety and well being of all persons.
Refrain from conduct that adversely affects others.
Act responsibly at all times.
In addition to the principles referred to above, athletic personnel, officials, fans, student-athletes, and
student peer groups (i.e. bands, cheerleaders, mascots, etc.) are expected to observe the following
guidelines:
ADMINISTRATORS: PBC administrators are expected to develop and promote the attitude that the
treatment of visiting teams and fans will be in the manner that they would wish their teams and fans
to be accorded. The host game manager should welcome the visiting coach and team and extend
courtesies that they would expect to receive. The host athletic director should brief everyone from
coaches and team members to concessionaires, pep band members, ushers, and cheerleaders that their
roles should reflect a courteous demeanor at all times.
COACHES: Coaches are very visible and influential representatives of the institution. As
ambassadors for their institutions, coaches are expected to set a standard for others to follow in the
areas of appropriate language and treatment of officials, players, and fans. Coaches have the greatest
influence over their team members both on the bench and on the field of play. A team often time
reflects the attitude of the coach. PBC coaches should exert ongoing control over the conduct of their
team members at all times. In the extreme, coaches should be prepared to remove team members
who show disrespect for their opponents, even at the risk of losing a contest.
STUDENT-ATHLETES: PBC student-athletes must realize that they are very visible
representatives of their institutions. As such, it is extremely important that they act in a responsible
and respectable manner at all times when representing their institution. Profanity, inappropriate
gestures, and negative statements or actions between opposing players, officials of fans, especially
taunting and baiting, will not be tolerated.
OFFICIALS: Officials who are assigned to PBC athletic events must enforce the rules concerning
sportsmanship and deal decisively with abuse of those rules. The only warning concerning abuse of
sportsmanship rules should come immediately before the contest. During the contest any abuses
should be dealt with through the administration of penalties, not further warnings. Each official will
be provided with the following written statement; “The Peach Belt Conference requires officials to
enforce all rules regarding unsportsmanlike conduct by coaches and players. Profanity, inappropriate
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gestures and negative statements or actions between opposing players, especially taunting and
baiting, will not be tolerated. If such comments are heard or gestures seen, a penalty will be assessed
immediately. If any coach protests the unsportsmanlike conduct penalties, he/she will be ejected
from the contest immediately. There will be no warnings. All players and coaches have been
advised of this.”
PBC COMMISSIONER: The commissioner will enforce the unsportsmanlike conduct rules of
the game and of the Conference. The commissioner will assess penalties for inappropriate behavior
that is not detected or acted on by the officials. The commissioner may also impose penalties in
addition to those imposed by the officials. These penalties may include but are not limited to:
 Private Reprimand
 Public Reprimand
 Game/Games Suspension
FANS: It is understood that occasionally fans might make negative comments about officials and
opponents. However, individuals who use profanity or vulgar gestures or words, who display a
blatant disrespect, or who orally abuse officials, opponents or other fans will be ejected from the
athletic event. Individuals who repeatedly exhibit a pattern of such conduct will be refused
admission to athletic contests by the athletics director. Fans are also prohibited by NCAA rules from
using artificial noisemakers and airhorns at athletic contests.
SPIRIT GROUPS: Like student-athletes, these groups are visible representatives of the institution.
As such, high expectations are placed upon them for exemplary behavior. The role of any spirit
group is to encourage and support their team, not to deride their guests. Consequently, members of
spirit groups may not make negative comments about visiting players or fans during the course of the
athletic contest. Specific standards of conduct for various spirit groups are listed in the following
paragraphs.
Cheerleaders: The cheerleaders should project a positive influence upon the spectators and
participants in the contest. The positive influence can be manifested in the content of the
cheers, the timing of the cheers, and the positioning of the squad during the game. In general,
the content of the cheers should not contain language or gestures that are of questionable
taste. The squad may not position themselves behind the goal in an attempt to affect play,
including free throw shooting. Further, they should position themselves in front of their own
crowd before the game, during time-outs, and at half time. Megaphones may only be used for
voice amplification and not in any other manner.
Pep Bands: The pep band may only play during time outs and intermissions. Any attempt to
drown out opposing spirit groups, or jeers from the band members will be an act of
unsportsmanlike conduct. The athletics administration will ensure that positioning of the pep
band will be a reasonable distance from the visiting team and spectators’ seating by placing
the band in either a neutral area or an area contiguous to the home team spectators’ seating.
In no instance will the pep band be allowed to sit behind the visiting team’s bench.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Student Pep Groups: In general, student pep groups should follow the spirit of the
guidelines set forth for cheerleaders and pep bands. The group should sit in their team’s
spectator seating. In no instance will they be permitted to sit in the opposing team’s spectator
seating or behind the opposing team’s bench. The content of their cheering should not be
confrontational, profane, or otherwise in poor taste and judgment.
Mascots: The role of the mascot is to help foster fan support for his/her (its) team. Any
gesturing or positioning should occur to serve that end. It should not, however, impair the
progress of the game or confront the opposing players or spectators in any negative manner.
At no time should the mascot antagonize or enter the vicinity of the opposing team’s bench.
Any good-natured humor involving officials should be limited to times when they are idle and
there is no game action taking place. All gesturing and actions must be in good taste and
suitable for family living.
CONCLUDING STATEMENT: The PBC believes that an effort on the part of all conference
members to create an atmosphere of sportsmanship will result in a healthier, more positive
environment in which the student-athletes can compete.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
GC Athletics Policies and Procedures
Student-athletes are subject to the same academic and financial and non-academic rules and
regulations as members of the regular student body. Student-athletes are encouraged to refer to the
Georgia College Student Handbook at http://www.gcsu.edu/studentlife/handbook.htm for specific
rights, policies, and procedures.
Georgia College Academic Guidelines-Absentee Policy
3.02.07 Absence Policy, Student
If a student is representing the university in an official capacity, as verified on a list released from the
Office of the Provost / Vice President for Academic Affairs, the instructor for those absences will not
penalize the student. However, students should consult their instructor before anticipated
absences. Official capacity represents contests and associated travel with those contests.
Practice does not fall under this capacity.
GCSU Procedures: Faculty members and college officials who are sponsoring official activities of
the college (i.e., student government, athletics, debate, chorus, band, field trips, etc.) should send a
list of the students involved in their activity to the Office of the Provost / Vice President for
Academic Affairs on the attached form in time for the Provost to approve, and in time for the college
sponsor to notify affected faculty by memo before the scheduled absences occur. If that is not done,
then the student can be penalized by the instructor for those absences. This policy for excused
absences does not relieve the student of his/her responsibility to attend classes regularly, nor does it
give anyone a license to cut classes or labs. The instructor may still place limits on class absences,
provided the limits have a reasonable relationship to learning the material covered in the course and
are specified in writing on the course syllabus that is given to students at the start of the course. The
policy in which students may fail courses for excessive absences remains in effect. Also, the policy
which entitles students to the right of petition to remedy their problems remains in effect.
Academic Advisement
All student-athletes are required to be advised by their University Academic Advisor prior to
registering to finalize a schedule and remove holds. Be prepared for your advising visit.
Some helpful items with advisement are:
http://www.gcsu.edu/success/approachtoacademicadvising.htm
http://www.gcsu.edu/success/advisinghandbook.htm
http://www.gcsu.edu/registrar/catalog.htm
Learning Center
The mission of the Learning Center is to provide academic support for the core curriculum courses
particularly in the areas of mathematics, science and economics. The Learning Center services are
accessible to any GCSU enrolled student free of charge. Learning Center staff aim to strengthen
academic skills, improve academic confidence, and enable the student to achieve academic success.
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Through a variety of academic support options, resource materials, and an inviting atmosphere, The
Learning Center encourages active learning and promotes the timely and successful progression
toward graduation. http://www.gcsu.edu/success/learningcenter.htm
Registration for Classes
Priority registration is available for student-athletes. This is a privilege that should not be taken for
granted. However, student-athletes must meet with advisors and holds must be released before they
will be allowed to register. Priority Registration gives student-athletes a special opportunity to sign
up for classes before everyone else. This opportunity gives them a chance to plan their schedules
around practice and competitions, with the intent of allowing them to attend as many classes as
possible. http://www.gcsu.edu/success/registration.htm
Dropping Courses
Do not drop a course without first speaking with your coach . If at any time you drop below 12
hours, you automatically become INELIGIBLE to practice or play. ALWAYS ADD THE
DESIGNATED COURSE BEFORE YOU DROP A COURSE.
A student may drop courses from his/her schedule through the fifth day of classes during Fall and
Spring semesters (for a period of two days after late registration during the Summer semester and for
a period of one day after late registration during Maymester). Students may drop via myCATS or by
submitting a Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar for processing. No approval is
required on the Course Change Card to drop a course during this time period.
Students attending classes that do not meet until after the published drop/add dates are allowed 24
hours following their first class meeting to adjust their course load. Exact dates for add and drop
periods are listed in the Academic Calendar.
After the drop/add period, but on or before the last day to drop a course without academic penalty
(unless previously assigned an “F” by the professor for excessive absences), students may drop
courses by submitting the Course Change Card to the Office of the Registrar. Approval of the
instructor and faculty advisor are required.
A student, who drops a course after the last day to drop a course without academic penalty (unless
previously assigned an "F" by the professor for absences) will receive a grade of "WF" (Withdrew
Failing) for the course.
http://www.gcsu.edu/registrar/adddrop.htm
Declaring a Major
Before beginning your junior year, you must “officially” declare a major and it must be on file at the
Registrar’s office. When you declare a major or change your major, you must inform your coach and
the athletic academic representative as soon as possible.
Major GPA’s at GCSU are not consistent with the NCAA minimum requirements. To find out
Major GPA’s go to: http://www.gcsu.edu/academics/majorsandminors.htm
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To help in selecting course and finding out more information about what you should be taking,
utilize Degreeworks. http://www.gcsu.edu/registrar/degreeworks.htm
GCSU 5-Class Drop Rule (for ALL students, freshman and transfers,
beginning Fall 2007 and beyond
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

You may only drop 5 classes during your college career at GCSU! These drops are
outside of the drop/add period.
After you have used your 5 drops, you will receive a “WF” (withdrawal fail) in any future
class that you choose to drop.
This “WF” translates to an F when figuring GPA.
GCSU Athletics 9-Hour Rule
To ensure that every student-athlete is making progress towards their degree, every student is
required to be enrolled in a minimum of 12 hours per semester, but at least 9 of those 12 credit
hours must be from either:
1) GCSU Core Class Requirements
2) Your declared Major
3) Your declared Minor
Your advisor, your coach, and the athletic department academic representative are here to help you
and keep you on track for graduation. Please ask us if you have questions about classes and your
eligibility.
Eligibility-NCAA Minimum Requirements
1. You must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credit hours each semester to be eligible. If at any
point during the semester you drop below 12 credit hours you will not be eligible to practice or play.
2. You must pass a minimum of 6 hours each semester to be eligible to play the next semester.
3. You must also pass a minimum of 24 credit hours per year to be eligible for the next year. *Only
6 credit hours taken in summer school may be counted towards your 24 credit hours for the year.
* If taking the Regents Writing or Reading Class those hours do not count towards the 24 hours you
need each year. http://www.gcsu.edu/testingcenter/regentstesting.htm
NCAA Minimum Grade Point Average Requirements
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

After 24 credit hours, you must have a 1.8 GPA to be eligible for competition.
After 48 credit hours, you must have a 1.9 GPA to be eligible for competition.
After 72 credit hours, you must have a 2.0 GPA to be eligible for competition.
Major GPA’s at GCSU are not consistent with the NCAA minimum requirements. To find out
Major GPA’s go to: http://www.gcsu.edu/academics/majorsandminors.htm
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Grievance Procedure for Student-Athletes
The following procedures have been established to help guide a student-athlete through a potential
grievance with an Athletics Department staff member, so that the matter may be settled in an
expedient and professional manner:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The student-athlete should meet with the staff member with whom he/she has a grievance.
If the grievance is not resolved to the satisfaction of the student-athlete, the student-athlete
should write a statement in full detail about the grievance and submit that statement to the
Director of Athletics. The Athletic Director’s office will then set up an appointment
between the student-athlete and the Athletic Director.
After the first meeting between the student-athlete and the Director of Athletics, a second
meeting may be called to include the person against whom the grievance has been filed.
If the grievance is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the student-athlete, the studentathlete may submit his/her statement to the Vice President for Student Affairs. The Vice
President will respond to the student within five (5) working days and may subsequently
call for a meeting with any or all of the aforementioned parties.
If the grievance is still not resolved to the satisfaction of the student-athlete, he/she may
submit a written appeal to the President.
Team Rules
Student-athletes have a responsibility to adhere to team rules as provided by the head coach and the
Department of Athletics. These rules are important and can affect the status of a student-athlete, i.e.,
suspension or dismissal from team.
All decisions directly related to team performance, i.e., playing time, position, traveling squad,
training, curfew, appearance, and conduct are the responsibility of the head coach.
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Social Networking Websites
Issues surrounding social networking is a leading topic and concern with athletic departments around
the country. The main concern regarding the usage of social networking sites is the personal safety
of GC student-athletes. In addition to the concern about student-athletes’ personal well-being is the
protection of the image of GCSU and the Department of Athletics. It is understood that these sites
are “personal” space, but it is also recognized that any information posted online becomes part of the
public domain and therefore privacy rights are forfeited. All pictures, blogs, and comments posted
today may be archived forever and can be accessed by virtually anyone. The following are some
basic guidelines for student-athletes to consider when utilizing social networking sites:
 Never post personal address or residence hall location;
 Avoid posting personal and cell phone numbers;
 Do not make references to alcohol or drugs in photos, blogs, personal information, etc.;
remember it is Illegal to consume alcohol under the age of 21. Please refrain from posting
pictures of minors and alcohol.
 Do not post explicit pictures;
 Do not post photos or images that place Georgia College, its faculty, staff, students, and
community in a negative image;
 Do not post negative references to your teammates, coaches, athletics administrators, GC
faculty/staff, or the university itself;
 Logos and pictures posted on www.GCbobcats.com are copyrighted and may not be used
without expressed written permission;
 Do not post references to infractions of team rules.
If a GC student-athlete posts any of the above mentioned items, violates or appears to violate college
policy, team policy, state law, or federal law, disciplinary action may be taken.
Student-athletes utilizing social media should understand that with this
freedom comes responsibility. Participation as a student-athlete is privilege
and not a right.
Additionally, prospective employers, graduate schools, etc., are monitoring these sites.
Additionally, children and young fans are increasingly gaining access to social networks. Be
responsible. Some common sense questions to ask yourself prior to posting:
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Are comfortable with your information being viewed on the Jumbotron in Times
Square?
Is your content something a grandparent or eight year old child would be comfortable
with?
Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Hazing
The GCSU Athletic Department will not tolerate any type or degree of hazing. For the purposes of
this policy, hazing is defined as any action taken or situation created as part of initiation to or
continued association with a team, which produces or could be expected to produce mental or
physical discomfort, harm, stress, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule. This applies to behavior
on and off college/athletic premises.
Head coaches will be expected to convey and enforce this policy to their teams. Any violation should
be reported to the Director of Athletics.
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NCAA Rules and Regulations
Student-athletes who wish to participate in the Georgia College Intercollegiate Athletic Program will
be required to do the following:
1. Submit information relating to eligibility;
2. Give written consent to disclose education records to an authorized representative; and
3. Give permission to be tested for drugs-both NCAA and Georgia College testing.
Failure to complete and sign the statement annually will result in ineligibility for participation in all
intercollegiate competition.
COMPLIANCE GUIDE
KNOWING THE REGULATIONS
Every student-athlete participating in intercollegiate competition at GC has an obligation to know and
abide by NCAA and University regulations. To avoid intentional and inadvertent rules violations, you
need to be aware of the rules that govern intercollegiate athletics. All infractions are contrary to our
commitment to integrity, impede progress toward competing for conference championships and may
jeopardize your eligibility to participate. Direct all questions to the GC Compliance Office.
INTENT OF THE REGULATIONS
The NCAA regulates intercollegiate athletics to maintain integrity, amateur status and sportsmanship.
Maintaining, enhancing and improving integrity within intercollegiate athletics helps to protect the
physical and educational welfare of the student-athlete. Every regulation is developed with the intent
to establish a high standard of honor and dignity within the intercollegiate athletic setting.
REPORTING NCAA RULES VIOLATIONS
With the large number of NCAA rules and regulations, it is possible that at some point during your
enrollment at GC you will either break a NCAA rule or know someone who breaks a rule. Each
student-athlete is responsible for his/her violations of NCAA rules and regulations during the
recruitment process and participation in college. If you have broken a rule or know someone who has
broken a rule it is your responsibility to report this violation to the NCAA Compliance Coordinator.
The NCAA is very forgiving and is not out to destroy a program. However, they do not look
favorably upon repeat violations or cover-ups. If you are questioned about a possible violation, you
are required to reveal whatever knowledge you have about the possible violation. If you have any
questions about NCAA rules or possible violations, please ask your coach, the Athletics Director, the
Faculty Athletic Representative or the NCAA Compliance Coordinator.
AGENTS
Should a student-athlete or parents be contacted by an agent, the first thing is to instruct the agent to
contact the Department of Athletics to arrange for a special counseling panel in which advising may
take place.
Under no circumstances can student-athletes enter into an agreement with an agent (either orally or
written) to represent them in future sport negotiations. If a student-athlete enters into an agreement
with an agent while he/she still has eligibility left, the student-athlete will be declared ineligible for
all NCAA sports (not just the sport for which an agreement was arranged).
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AMATEURISM
You will lose your amateur status, and be declared ineligible if subsequent to full-time enrollment at
a collegiate institution you:
 Use your athletic skills (directly or indirectly) for pay, in any form,
 Accept or the promise of pay, in any form, even if such pay is to be received after the
completion of your intercollegiate athletic eligibility,
 Sign a contract or commitment of any kind to participate on a professional athletic team,
 Receive any form of financial assistance or reimbursement of expenses from a
professional sports team/organization
 Competed on any professional athletics team
 Enter a professional draft
 Entered into an agreement with an agent.
Forms of pay include but are not limited to: salary, educational expenses, payment based on
performance, awards, reimbursement of expenses, prizes, split of receipts, etc. You may also lose
your amateur status if you receive compensation above the going rate for such employment or are
compensated for work you did not perform. The use of your name, picture, or likeness in promotional
activities may cause you to lose our amateur status. There are some exceptions to these amateurism
regulations. It is important you discuss any possible amateurism issues with the NCAA Compliance
Coordinator prior to any action which could lead you to losing your amateur status.
ETHICAL CONDUCT
As a student-athlete, you must reflect the high standards of honesty, integrity, and good
sportsmanship at all times. Your actions not only reflect on yourself, but also on Georgia College and
the Athletics Department. You may be deemed ineligible if you have conducted yourself unethically
by evading department, University or NCAA rules and regulations. Remember to think before you
act.
EXTRA BENEFITS
An extra benefit is any special arrangement by an institutional employee or booster that provides a
student-athlete or a student-athlete’s relative or friend with a benefit not authorized by the NCAA.
Receipt by a student-athlete of an award, benefit or expense allowance not authorized by the NCAA
legislation renders the student-athlete ineligible. As a student-athlete at GC, you are permitted to
receive expenses that are directly related to travel and competition while representing GC as well as
the expenses listed in your scholarship agreement. However, receipt of any monetary or tangible
benefit or award from persons outside of the athletic department is NOT permitted.
FINANCIAL AID
By the 1st of July each year, the student-athletes will receive a letter from the Financial Aid Office
stating the status of their scholarship, i.e., renewal, non-renewal, or revision to the original grant in
aid. Upon receipt of this acceptance letter, the student-athlete must sign and return it to the Athletic
Director’s office. If a student-athlete’s scholarship has been reduced or canceled, a hearing may be
requested as provided by NCAA regulations. The student-athlete must submit in writing to the
Office of Financial Aid a request for the hearing. A meeting will be set with the student-athlete and
the Financial Aid Committee. The Financial Aid Committee will then have final say as to whether
the appeal is upheld. Questions or concerns regarding a student-athlete’s financial aid should be
directed to the Director of Financial Aid.
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GAMBLING
The NCAA opposes all forms of gambling and adamantly opposes all forms of sports gambling.
Please report any activity to your coach and the Compliance Office immediately.
OUTSIDE COMPETITION
During the academic year, student-athletes are not permitted to compete as a member of any outside
team in any non-collegiate, amateur contest. This does not include official vacation periods
recognized by the University (i.e. holidays, spring break, summer, etc.) There are limited exceptions
to this rule, but student-athletes should not compete on outside teams without checking with your
coach or director of compliance. In men’s and women’s basketball, student-athletes are never
permitted to play in any organized outside basketball competition during the academic year while
representing the University.
PRACTICE AND PLAYING TIME LIMITS
Each sport has its declared playing and practice season. This season may be broken into two
segments, the championship season (segment when the NCAA championship is conducted) and the
non-championship season (other segment).
During the playing season, a student-athlete’s participation in countable athletically related activities
(i.e. practice, competition, strength and conditioning, film review, etc.) is limited to maximum of (4)
hours per day and 20 hours per week. One day off per week is required. Time spent with team
travel is not considered an athletically related activity and may be counted as the required day off.
These limits do not apply during vacation periods or during pre-season training prior to the start of
the fall or spring semesters.
During the academic year when teams are out of season, student-athletes may be required to
participate in conditioning activities for a maximum of eight hours per week with only two of those
hours permitted on individual skill instruction.
You may voluntarily exceed the four (4) hours per day, 20 hours per week, or the eight (8) hours per
week on your own. However, this cannot be at the direction or under the supervision of your coach.
Athletic insurance does not cover injuries incurred in voluntary sessions.
PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES
You are not permitted to use your name or picture to directly advertise, recommend, or promote the
sale or use of a commercial product or service. Also, you may not receive any form of payment for
endorsing a commercial product or service through the use of the product or service. This applies to
appearances on radio, television, or print media. This does not apply to squad pictures that are used
on posters, programs or promotional brochures issued by the Athletic Department.
RECRUITING
As a student-athlete at GC, you play an important role in the recruitment of prospective studentathletes, whether you are meeting with or serving as a student host for prospective student-athletes.
Your actions will give prospective student-athletes the most accurate view of the role of a studentathlete at GC. It is important that you represent GC, your teammates and coaches in the best possible
manner when interacting with prospective student-athletes.
SEASONS OF COMPETITION
Student-athletes are allowed a maximum of four seasons of intercollegiate competition that must be
completed within 10-semesters of enrolling full-time.
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Athletic Training Guidelines
Program Compliance
The studentathlete must allow an adequate amount of time to receive treatment. Care is provided on a
first come, first serve basis. Student-athletes will be expected to receive as many treatments per day
as directed by the athletic trainer. Failure to complete the prescribed treatment or rehabilitation plan
will be reported to the head coach for disciplinary action, if necessary. It will be assumed that the
student-athlete is fully recovered and able to return to full activity, or that he/she no longer desires to
participate if treatment is discontinued without permission of the team physician or certified athletic
trainer. The student-athlete is only returned to unlimited participation
status upon the approval of the team physician or certified athletic trainer. Under no circumstances
are you to treat yourself. Someone on the athletic training staff will supervise all treatment programs
and will make any changes as necessary.
Any athletes desiring to be taped for participation should be involved in a daily rehabilitation routine.
Taping does not add to strength, flexibility, or endurance, and the stability of taping is much less than
that gained through a rehabilitation program. Any prescribed rehabilitation exercises should be
completed prior to being taped. Rehabilitation programs are not required on game days.
Injury/Illness Evaluation
All injuries or illnesses should be reported to the Athletic Training staff no later than 9:30 am the
following day. Ideally, all injuries/illnesses should be reported immediately to the athletic trainer
assigned to the respective athlete’s team. Athletes who do not report an illness/injury in a timely
manner, will be assumed to be ready for full participation that day. Athletes reporting an illness may
be directed to Student Health Services. If further evaluation is indicated, the staff there will refer the
athlete to a physician if indicated.
The Athletic Training Room will be open at least 1 hour prior to a practice or game and 30 minutes
afterwards. Regular Athletic Training Room hours will be posted each semester outside the door of
the Athletic Training Room.
Student-athletes are expected to notify the Athletic Training staff of any injuries or illnesses that
occur during their time as a GCSU athlete, including but not limited to the following: concussions,
heat illness, orthopedic injuries, and cardiac conditions. Notifying the Athletic Training staff in a
timely manner of any injury or illness will help in securing appropriate treatment, and withholding
this information may expose the student-athlete to potentially more damage and/or a longer recovery.
If a staff member is needed after normal working hours, athletes should call the Athletic Training
Room (478-445-1787) and the call will be forwarded to the appropriate staff member.
Physician Referrals
The athletic training staff is supervised by a physician who is recognized by the NCAA as the final
authority on the health status and availability for participation of GCSU athletes. Injured or student‐
athletes will be referred to local physicians on staff at Oconee Regional Medical Center in
Milledgeville or OrthoGeorgia in Macon unless extenuating circumstances necessitate a different
provider. GCSU Student Health Services will be utilized as well for referral of illnesses.
All student‐athletes must be seen and evaluated by a GCSU
certified athletic trainer before a referral to a physician will be made. A GCSU certified athletic
trainer (ATC) must authorize and properly refer all student-athletes to see a physician when
necessary. If a student-athlete chooses to see a physician or other medical consultant and/or undergo
a diagnostic test without prior authorization from a member of the GCSU athletic training staff,
GCSU Athletics will not be responsible for any medical bills incurred.
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Whenever a physician referral is needed or is discussed amongst the sports medicine staff as a
serious and realistic option, the staff should inform and discuss with the appropriate Head
Coach. Ideally, the Head Coach should be informed of the decision prior to contact with the studentathlete. In the event that the student-athlete is notified first, contact with the Head Coach should be
made or attempted during the same day. At the very latest, contact should be made within 24 hours of
the initial discussion. The need for the discussion is to keep the sports medicine staff, coaching staff,
and the student-athlete informed as a plan develops. The sports medicine staff has final say on
medical issues.
Ideally, the coach should be informed in person that a physician appointment is likely for an athlete.
This information should also be included in the weekly injury summaries, but the summary and the
verbal notification should both take place.
If a coach cannot be contacted by a member of the athletic training staff in person, a text message or
email to request some time to talk about the appointment is appropriate. The meeting is not to get the
approval of the coach, but to simply keep him/her informed of the athlete’s status. This is especially
important if the athlete will miss some playing time and the coach needs to know how to fill that spot
in the meantime with as much notice as possible.
Physician Second Opinions
If a student‐athlete and/or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) desire another physician's opinion on an
injury or medical condition related to participation in GCSU Athletics, a GCSU certified athletic
trainer will make arrangements for the second opinion with a physician acceptable to both the
student-athlete and the GCSU athletic training staff. For coverage by the GCSU Athletics insurance
policy, normal referral procedures from the athletic training staff must be followed as stated above.
Insurance Coverage of Student Athletes
Primary, Secondary, and Catastrophic Coverage
The student athlete's insurance coverage will be considered as primary coverage for all
athletics related injuries and/or illnesses. The student athlete must provide a copy of
their insurance card prior to any medical referral. This policy includes any insurance
coverage carried by international student-athletes at GCSU.
The Athletic Department provides an insurance policy that serves as secondary coverage for
all athletics-related injuries. This policy will cover any claims not covered by the studentathlete’s personal insurance coverage, including all co-pays and deductibles. This coverage
is not available for any condition that is not directly related to GCSU Athletics participation
(i.e.—illnesses, pregnancy, non-athletic accidents, dental/vision screenings, etc). This
policy is secondary to, or in excess of, any personal family medical insurance coverage
and applies only to
injuries/illnesses/accidents resulting from the direct participation in the intercollegiate
athletics program during the dates of the primary competitive season and designated offseasons as approved by the Director of Athletics according to NCAA regulations.
A catastrophic insurance program for GCSU student-athletes is provided by the NCAA. This
policy only applies to claims made from catastrophic injuries that are directly related to
participation in NCAA-sanctioned sports.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Members of the cheerleading and dance squads also have secondary coverage through an
insurance policy designated to cover them in the event of injuries during events that are
sanctioned by the GCSU Athletic Department but may not necessarily be a part of an NCAAsanctioned event (i.e.—exhibitions, certain practice sessions, parades, etc.)
Compliance with Insurance Company Requests
It is the studentathlete's responsibility to understand the conditions that apply to their polic
y and comply with any requests for information, etc. from the primary insurance company.
Privacy rules prevent the Athletic Department from receiving bills related to athletic
injuries. All bills will go to the patient/athlete. It is the responsibility of the athlete to
deliver all bills to the athletic training staff as soon as possible.
HMOs
If a student athlete's primary insurance is an HMO, the GCSU athletic training
staff strongly encourages the student athlete and/or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) to chang
e the primary care physician (for the student-athlete only) to a GCSU team
physician or other local physician considered to be in network for that plan. This will allow
the student-athlete to initiate care for a medical condition much more efficiently and
effectively.
Insurance Policy Changes
The GCSU athletic training staff must receive notice of any changes to a health insurance
policy as soon as they occur. If proper notification is not received, the GCSU Athletic
Department will not be responsible for any delays in payment, collections notices,
credit reports, etc. that occur.
Exclusions and Limitations
The GCSU Athletic Department’s secondary medical insurance policy does not
apply to the situations indicated below. This list is not all inclusive.
1.Injuries/illnesses that are not the direct result of GCSU-sanctioned athletics
participation during the dates of the primary competitive season and designated offseasons as approved by the Director of Athletics according to NCAA regulations.
2. Hospital room and board charges in excess of the semi
private room rate unless hospitalized in an intensive care unit.
3. Any injury which occurs, or is directly related to, body jewelry of any kind worn (seen or
unseen) during an athletic event. Generally, NCAA rules and regulations prohibit the
wearing of jewelry during athletic participation.
4. Any injury which is caused by unsportsmanlike conduct or other behavior outside of the
Peach Belt Code of Conduct (i.e.—fights, throwing equipment, punching a wall, etc). The
athletic training staff will care for these injuries and provide medical referral as necessary,
but all financial responsibility for the charges incurred will be with the athlete and not with
the Athletic Department.
5. Injuries/illnesses that are a result of intramural, and recreational activities (non‐
intercollegiate activities), as well as training/conditioning activities that occur outside of the
primary competitive season and designated off‐season periods.
6.
Injuries/illnesses that are recurrences of old injuries/illnesses which were sustained be
fore participation in the GCSU intercollegiate sports program.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
7.
Any tests and/or consultations needed to gain approval for participation in the interc
ollegiate athletic program.
8. Any medication, over-the-counter or prescription that is not administered during a
medical procedure or surgery.
9. Any fee or charge incurred as a consequence of a missed medical appointment.
10. No coverage by the Athletic Department’s secondary insurance policy will extend to any
student-athlete who has not been cleared for athletic participation by a physician (MD or
DO) prior to the beginning of any formal competition, practice, or workout/conditioning
session.
Non‐Sport Related Injury/Illness Procedures
The GCSU Athletics Department does not assume financial responsibility for injuries and/or
illnesses that do not occur during the student-athlete’s primary competitive in-season and
designated off-seasons as approved by the Director of Athletics according to
NCAA regulations. Medical bills associated with such conditions will be the sole
responsibility of the student-athlete and/or his/her parent(s)/guardian(s).
LIGHTNING/SEVERE WEATHER POLICY
 Athletes participating in outdoor activity will attempt to be aware of the most recent forecast.
 Should conditions exist for a possible thunderstorm or other weather event, the following chain
of command will monitor the weather conditions and make determinations during the event:
o Certified Athletic Trainer on site
o Athletic Administrator on site
o Head Coach
Emergency Action Plans
In the event of an emergency at GC Athletic Facilities, the following procedures will be utilized:
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During contests, staff athletic trainer on hand will coordinate the emergency plan.
If an emergency arises during practice, EMS will summoned by sports medicine personnel or
coach by dialing 911
Once EMS arrives, they will take over the scene, with assistance from the athletic training
staff and/or coaching staff
Staff athletic trainer will notify parents, if they are not in attendance.
Staff athletic trainer will notify appropriate medical personnel if needed.
Staff athletic trainer will notify Athletics Director of situation.
Preparticipation Documentation Guidelines
Preparticipation Screenings
Preparticipation screenings, or physicals, are required of all student-athlete participants,
including walk-ons, try-out students, cheerleaders, and dance team members. The
examination is limited and designed to identify conditions or infirmities that would limit or
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
prevent a student from participating in athletic activities. This exam is NOT intended to be
comprehensive and may not detect some types of latent or hidden medical conditions. All
athletes should receive periodic comprehensive medical examinations.
These screenings must be completed and be on file with the athletic training staff prior to
the first date of participation. Preseason physicals must be completed by a physician and
are required for the student-athlete to be covered by the Athletic Department’s injury
insurance policy. A student-athlete is not eligible for participation on a team or squad until
cleared by a physician in the preseason physical exam.
Tryout Documentation
Students may only try out on one (1) day for no more than two (2) hours. The athlete must
also have a current physical on file with the GCSU Athletic Training Room prior to the
tryout or will not be covered by the Athletic Department’s insurance policy in the event of an
injury. (NCAA Rule 13.11.2 and 17.02.13) The physical exam must have been completed by a
physician and must have occurred within the previous twelve (6) months.
Students who wish to tryout must also complete a Tryout Waiver, available from the athletic
training staff or from the respective coach. Both the waiver and the physical must be on file
with the athletic training staff prior to the tryout. The coach is responsible for
assuring that the completed paperwork is on file with the athletic training staff
prior to allowing an athlete to tryout. Any medical claims that arise from an injury occurring
during the tryout when the proper documentation is not in place will be the financial
responsibility of the tryout student.
Other Required Documentation
All athletes must have the following documentation on file with the athletic training staff
before they are allowed to participate:
a. Insurance Information Form including a current copy of the student’s
insurance card
b. Medical History Form (if not included in physical)
b. Medical Release/Assumption of Risk/Consent to Treat Form
c. Emergency Contact Information
If the athlete is under 18 years of age a parental signature is also required. Forms will be
available online as well as in the Athletic Training Room. All forms should be updated
annually.
Medical Disqualification of Student‐Athletes
The team physician has the final responsibility to determine when a student‐ athlete is
removed or withheld from participation due to an injury, an illness, or pregnancy. The
NCAA-recognized team physician will be the final authority regarding a student-athlete’s
availability for participation. In the absence of the team physician, the athletic training staff
will have the unchallengeable authority to make these decisions as allowed by the NCAA.
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GC Athletics Student-Athlete Drug Testing Policy
Purpose of the Program
The GCSU Athletic Department Student-Athlete Drug Testing Policy addresses the non-medical use
of prescription drugs, use of illegal drugs, and the use of dietary supplements which are detrimental
to the physical and mental well being of its students. A mandatory program of drug testing has been
instituted to protect the student-athletes’ health and safety. The policy may be amended from time to
time and student-athletes will be given notice of any critical changes. The purpose of the policy is to
prevent drug use and abuse in athletics and, where detected, to eliminate it through medical
treatment, counseling, and/or discipline. Student-athletes will be informed of drug testing procedures
and consequences of positive test results at the beginning of each academic year. A consent form will
be signed by each candidate for testing and on file with the Compliance Director at the beginning of
each academic year.
Testing Procedures
At least three times each semester (Fall and Spring semesters), the GCSU Athletics Department will
screen for drugs/supplements banned or restricted by the NCAA. Testing during the summer may at
times be mandated by the NCAA. All testing will be coordinated through the Athletic Training
Staff. A list of restricted/banned classes of medications can be found on the NCAA website
(www.ncaa.org) as well as posted in the Athletic Training Room. Student-athletes will be randomly
selected for testing. Student-athletes may also be selected for testing based on reasonable suspicion
(based on any of the following characteristics: sudden negative change in behavior or academic
performance, sudden mood swings, apparent physiological signs or drug abuse, past history of
treatment for drug abuse or positive drug testing, etc.). Testing will be conducted through urinalysis
of selected student-athletes. Test samples may be assessed on campus by the Athletic Training staff
following procedures outlined by the manufacturer of the test or sent to an outside laboratory facility
for assessment. All test samples assessed by the Athletic Training staff to indicate a positive drug
screen will be sent to an outside laboratory facility for confirmation following procedures set by the
lab.
Candidate Selection
Candidates for selection will include all members of teams that compete for Peach Belt Conference
championships. Testing may include student-athletes as well as other student personnel (managers,
statisticians, athletic training students, etc.). The Head Athletic Trainer will schedule a time for the
student athlete to complete his/her test that does not conflict with a scheduled class or competition,
and notify the student-athlete of this time. Athletes must comply with the testing schedule at the
specified time.
***Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product and its
label with your athletics department staff. 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.
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Test Results
Results of all tests are confidential and will only be shared with the Head Athletic Trainer, the
Assistant Athletic Trainer, the Team Physician, the Head Coach, and the Director of Athletics.
Results may be shared with the parents/guardians of the student-athlete at the discretion of the
Director of Athletics. Any attempt to alter the test results by the use of adulterants or other masking
agents will be considered a positive test. Failure to appear for testing at the specified time will be
treated as a positive test.
The consequences of positive tests are as follows:
First Positive Test:
 The student-athlete will meet with the Athletic Director and Head Athletic Trainer to discuss
the test results.
 The student-athlete may appeal the results and request to be retested at their own expense
within 24 hours of notification of a positive result.
 The student-athlete is required to submit to counseling, and will be retested on each
subsequent drug screening date for one calendar year.
 Disciplinary sanctions may be assigned by the Director of Athletics in several forms, and may
include any or all of the following: required counseling appointments, community service,
suspension from team competitions, or any other reasonable assignment deemed necessary at
the time. Failure to accept or comply with these assignments will be viewed as forfeiture of
the student-athlete’s position on the team. Any additional disciplinary actions assigned by the
Head Coach must be approved by the Director of Athletics. Any fees or charges associated
with the assigned sanctions or disciplinary actions will be the responsibility of the studentathlete and not the GCSU Athletic Department.
Second Positive Test:
 The student-athlete’s Head Coach will be informed of the positive test results.
 The student-athlete will meet with the Athletic Director and Head Athletic Trainer to discuss
the test results.
 A second positive test result (assessed no less than 30 days from the initial positive test) at
any time in a career will result in immediate dismissal from all intercollegiate athletic
participation including all practices, competitions, workout or conditioning sessions, and team
meetings.
Medical Exemption:
In the event of a positive test, the student-athlete’s medical records on file in the Athletic Training
Room will be reviewed to determine if the positive test is a result of medication appropriately
prescribed by a physician. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to provide documentation to
the Head Athletic Trainer from the prescribing physician authorizing the use of the medication. If the
medication was prescribed by a physician for the student-athlete, yet a positive test resulted because
the medication was not taken in the proper form or dosage, the medical exemption will not be
granted.
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“Safe Harbor” Exemption:
Any athlete who voluntarily reports a drug abuse problem prior to notification of testing will not have
his/her eligibility affected by team or departmental sanctions. Notification may be made to a member
of Athletics administration or the Athletic Training Staff. An exemption will be honored for no
more than 30 days and may only be declared once in an athletic career. Athletes who self-report this
type of problem are seen as seeking treatment options for the problem and are expected to adhere to
counseling requirements, further testing, and parental notification just as any other student-athlete
with a positive drug test. The advantage to this exemption is that it prevents any positive drug test
administered during this time to count against his/her eligibility. This exemption only applies to the
GCSU drug testing program and will not be considered during NCAA mandated or administered
testing.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE EDUCATION
The Athletics Department discourages any use of tobacco, illegal drugs, or abuse of alcohol. The use
of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs at GC athletics events and activities associated with them is
prohibited by the Athletics Department. The athletics director must approve any or all exceptions in
writing.
The Athletics Department will conduct an Alcohol, Tobacco, and other Drug educational session two
times yearly for all student athletes. The initial session will, at a minimum, contain a review of the
Athletics Department and University policy including resources and referral information. Additional
educational sessions will be provided on related topics.
The Athletics Department will incorporate for staff a yearly review of department and University
policy on Alcohol, Tobacco, and other Drugs in a meeting prior to the beginning of the fall semester.
Additional information provided will include resources and referral services to enable the athletic
department staff to engage in informed, responsible decision making regarding the use and abuse of
alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs by their student athletes.
The Athletics Department will conduct random drug screening of student athletes in order to identify
those who use or abuse any banned substances. The athletics director may add any student athlete
who is identified for reasonable cause to the random screening list.
Alcohol
Georgia College Athletics will not tolerate illegal or otherwise irresponsible use of alcohol. This
includes drinking while under the legal age, and purchasing alcohol for use by a minor. Alcoholism
is a progressive disorder with serious consequences.
A student athlete who consumes alcohol will be held accountable for an alcohol related incident in
which he/she is involved. In such cases, the student is subject to university, athletic department, or
team disciplinary action whether or not there are legal implications.
If a student athlete is involved in an alcohol related incident with legal implications under state and
federal laws, he or she will have the same consequences as a positive drug test. If a student athlete is
involved in an alcohol related incident with NO legal consequences, the head coach, athletics
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
director, and head athletic trainer will determine if the circumstances warrant counseling intervention
and/or any additional sanctions in addition to any university sanctions thru Student Affairs.
Tobacco
Tobacco use often results in physical dependency in the form of nicotine addiction. The negative
effects of tobacco abuse are well documented in the high incidence of oral, lung, and other forms of
cancer.
NCAA legislation prohibits the use of tobacco products by all athletes, coaches, athletic trainers,
managers, and officials, in all sports during practice and competition. In addition, Lander University
prohibits tobacco use by student-athletes, staff, and spectators on and in close proximity to the
grounds of all athletic facilities at all times. Any staff member or student-athlete representing the
athletic department in an official capacity at any time is prohibited from the use of tobacco products.
Violations of this policy are subject to disciplinary sanctions by the head coach, athletics director, and
head athletic trainer.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Sports Information
The sports information office coordinates all media coverage, statistics, broadcasting and other public
relations elements of Bobcat athletics.
Should a media entity wish to contact a student-athlete or coach for a story, Sports Information will
coordinate the interview around practice and class schedules to the best of their ability. Post-game
interviews may also be conducted following a 10-minute cooling-down period.
Should any media member contact you directly without hearing from the sports information director
first, please do not answer any questions and refer them to the sports information director office for
coordination of any interviews needed. This measure exists to protect GCSU student-athletes’
privacy.
Should you have any questions contact the sports information office.
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Weight Room Policy
The Georgia College & State University Athletics weight room is located in the Centennial Center,
off the main arena floor. The following guidelines must be followed by coaches and student-athletes.
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GCSU student-athletes and coaches/staff are the only people allowed in the weight room. No
“friends” or roommates who are not covered under GCSU Athletic Department insurance are
allowed.
A coach, staff member or trainer must be present in the weight room AT ALL TIMES
while student-athletes are using the weight room.
No food or drink allowed in the weight room.
Shirts and shoes must be worn at all times.
Wipe off perspiration from benches etc. after use.
All weights must be racked properly after use. This means that all free weights must be taken
off the bars and replaced on storage “trees”. Please put weights of the same size on each
storage arm (i.e. do not put 45 lbs. and 10 lbs. weights in the same place.) Place all dumbbells
on the rack.
Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
Athletic Department Staff Directory
Wendell Staton
Athletic Director
478-445-6341
Jimmy Wilson
Associate AD/ Golf Coach
478-445-2082
Steve Barsby
Assistant AD/Tennis Coach
478-445-1778
Ginger Chaffinch
Assistant AD/ Compliance
478-445-6870
Patti Weimer
Administrative Assistant
478-445-6341
Paul Higgs
Athletic Trainer
478-445-1787
Eva Beaulieu
Asst. Athletic Trainer
478-445-1794
Alan Weston
Sports Info. Director
478-445-1779
Tom Carty
Baseball Coach
478-445-1692
Zeke Mitchem
Asst. Baseball Coach
478-445-5319
Terry Sellers
Men’s Basketball Coach
478-445-4289
Mark Gainous
Asst. Men’s Basketball
478-445-1777
Maurice Smith
Women’s Basketball Coach
478-445-1788
Toby Wagoner
Asst. Women’s Basketball
478-445-4010
Jamie Grodecki
Softball Coach
478-445-6871
Brittany Bennett
Asst. Softball
478-445-5279
Hope Clark
Women’s Soccer Coach
478-445-4011
Mary Byrne
Asst. Women’s Soccer Coach
478-445-4016
Joe Samprone
Cross Country Coach
478-445-6341
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Georgia College Student-Athlete Handbook
I, the undersigned Georgia College Student-Athlete, have been informed that the 2011-12 StudentAthlete Handbook is located on the GC athletic website at www.GCbobcats.com
I understand it is my responsibility to read this document in its entirety and if I have any questions I
can bring them to the attention of my coach or athletic administrator.
By signing this form, I understand and agree to abide by the rules and regulations set forth in
the student-athlete handbook.
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