NORTH CLAY 

CUSD #25

CO-CURRICULAR AND ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

Table of Contents

Page 2……………….Table of Contents

                Disclaimer

Page 3……………….Introduction

                Philosophy of Athletes

                   Student/Athlete Code of Ethics

Page 4………………..Code of Ethics for Coaches

Page 5…………….…Expectations of Parents and Fans

 Page 6……………….Parent/Coach Communication

Athletic Injury and Accident Reports

Page 7……………….Concussion Protocol

 Sportsmanship/Citizenship

 Hazing          

Cell Phones & Electronic Device Policy

Page 9……………….Tobacco, Drugs and Alcohol Policy

Page 11……………...Eligibility

General Regulations

Page 13……………..Student/Athlete Transportation

                Early Dismissal

Use of School Facilities

Page 14……………...Dual Sport/Activity Participation

Practice

Use of Athletic Equipment

Page 15……………...Issuing of Athletic Equipment

Weight Area Safety

Page 16…………….. The Leadership Qualities of a Team Captain

Qualification of Athletic Awards (High School)

Page 17……………...Qualification of Athletic Awards (Jr. High School)

Page 19……………...Parent and Athlete Signature

DISCLAIMER

This handbook is not intended to create a contractual relationship with the parents or student/athletes. It is intended to describe the athletic programs, practices, processes, rules, and regulations. Membership or participation in a school sanctioned activity is a privilege and not a right. This handbook cannot be all­ inclusive, and as in any situation in an ever changing society, changes may occur upon Board of Education approval.

Introduction to the North Clay Athletic Handbook

Parents/guardians: Please review the handbook carefully and keep it throughout your participation as a North Clay athlete. The staff and administration welcome you to the North Clay athletic program. Good luck and enjoy your participation in North Clay's athletics.

NORTH CLAY CUSD #25 PHILOSOPHY OF ATHLETICS

• As a part of the athletic team, you are a representative of North Clay. This requires you to demonstrate appropriate behavior during athletics, in the classroom, and in the community.
• Quality student athletes make for a quality athletic program. Quality athletes display good sportsmanship at all times.
• Athletics are an important part of the total school program.
• Participation in a sound athletic program contributes to the development of good health, physical skills, emotional stability and social confidence.
• A good athletic program should teach the participants a spirit of competition and the value of cooperation.
• The ability to perform, to experience defeat without excuses, to experience victory without gloating, to learn self discipline, to follow the rules of the game and team, to exhibit good sportsmanship, and to train one's body as is necessary for athletics participation are all important in the development of young men and women.

STUDENT/ATHLETE CODE OF ETHICS

As a participant in the athletics at North Clay, I recognize the privileges of representation and participation that come to an athlete and sincerely assume the responsibilities and obligations that go with these privileges:

• Will know and practice correct training routines in accordance with the North Clay Athletic Policy and coaches' rules set forth before the season begins.
• Will recognize that I am expected to set a good example in regard to conduct and personal grooming as well as to dress appropriately. My coach/sponsor will determine appropriate dress.
• Realize that my actions and appearance represent my parents, my coach, my school, myself, my athletic program, and my community.
• Will work to apply the philosophy that nothing worthwhile is accomplished without hard work, application and the desire to succeed.
• Will strive to avoid cliques or special groups within the squads or in the school, which are operating under selfish motives rather than for the good of the team and of the school.
• Will respect and encourage excellence of performance and conduct regardless of who accomplishes it or where it is accomplished.
• Will believe that each squad member has his/her unique contribution to make in the position that he/she holds.
• Will recognize that a true athlete is one who, despite unjustified criticism, a losing season, or a better opponent, still has the determination to strive beyond his/her apparent ability.
• Will strive to give more than I receive.
• Will respect in good faith the role of teachers, coaches, officials, teammates and students as they affect my daily life.
• Will follow all team rules that are determined by the coach for a particular sport.
• Will realize that there are consequences for breaking the rules which may result in disciplinary action, determined by the school, coach, and athletic department. The rules may vary depending on each sport/coach.

CODE OF ETHICS FOR COACHES

North Clay believes each student athlete should be treated as an individual whose welfare shall be primary at all times. The coach must be aware that he/she serves as a model in the education of the student athlete and, therefore, shall never place the value of winning above the value of character building. The coach must constantly uphold the honor and dignity of the teaching profession, in all personal contact with the student athletes, parents, officials, athletic directors, school administrators, the state athletic associations, the media and the public. The coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.

The coach shall support and enforce school rules for prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco use and abuse, and under no circumstances shall allow the use of these substances. The coach shall promote the entire interscholastic program of the school and direct his or her program in harmony with the total district program. The coach shall be thoroughly acquainted with the contest, state, and conference rules, and is responsible for their interpretation to team members. The coach shall abide by the letter and spirit of these rules at all times.

Contest officials shall have the respect and support of the coach. The coach shall not indulge in conduct which will incite players or spectators against the officials, or against each other. Public disrespectful criticism of officials or players is unethical and is strongly discouraged! Coaches shall actively use their influence to promote sportsmanship by working closely with parents, athletes, and administrators. Before and after contests, rival coaches should meet and exchange friendly greetings to set the correct tone for the event.

Coaches shall:

• be aware that he/she serves as a model in the education of the student athlete and, therefore, shall never place the value of winning above the value of character building.
• must constantly uphold the honor and dignity of the teaching profession, in all personal contact with the student athletes, parents, officials, athletic directors, school administrators, the state athletic associations, the media and the public.
• strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.
• support and enforce school rules for the prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco use and abuse, and under no circumstances shall allow the use of these substances.
• promote the entire interscholastic program of the school and direct his or her program in harmony with the total district program.
•  be thoroughly acquainted with the contest, state, and conference rules, and is responsible for their interpretation to team members and abide by the letter and spirit of these rules at all times.
• respect and support contest official(s) at all times.
• not indulge in conduct which will incite players or spectators against the officials, or against each other.
• not publicly criticize officials or players participating in athletics at North Clay.
• Remember all Summer practices and workouts can not be made mandatory for athletes and should in no way be a determining factor of playing time during the regular season.
• Issue excused absences if a player is out of town on a holiday in which official practice can take place. (Example: Thanksgiving Break and Christmas Break)

EXPECTATIONS OF PARENTS & FANS

The state athletic associations and North Clay believe that sportsmanship is a core value and its promotion and practice are essential. This code of conduct applies to all parents/fans involved in interscholastic athletics and activities.

1. Parents/Fans will promote academic, emotional, physical and moral well being above desires and pressure to win.

2. Parents/Fans will teach, enforce, advocate, model, and promote the development of good character including: Trustworthiness, Respect, Responsibility, Fairness, Caring and Citizenship.

3. Parents/Fans will respect participants, officials, opponents, and all others involved.

4. Parents/Fans will promote fair play and uphold the spirit of the rules in the activity.

5. Parents/Fans will model appropriate behavior at all times.

6. In the event that a North Clay fan is ejected, he/she will be suspended                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                      from North Clay games at the same level/event for a minimum of 2 games with more possible pending administrative/board review.

7.  IHSA and IESA mandated school responses to parent/fan conduct will be maintained.

PARENT/COACH COMMUNICATION

As your son/daughter becomes involved in the athletic program at North Clay, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way that they wish. This is the opportunity for your son/daughter to talk with their respective coach and discuss the situation. When they handle the problem, it becomes part of the learning and maturation process. There may also be situations that require a conversation between the coach and the parent. These are encouraged. It's important that both parties have a clear understanding of the other's position. If such conversation is needed following an athletic event the parent will need to follow the chain of command procedures listed below.

The chain of command and procedures are listed below to help promote a resolution:

Step 1: Do not attempt to confront a coach before or after an athletic event or practice. This may be an emotional time for both the parent and coach. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolutions. A more productive meeting may be scheduled at the earliest the following day (make an appointment to speak with the coach by calling the Athletic Director).

Step 2: If the concern is not resolved with the coach, call the Athletic Director to arrange a conference. A meeting may be arranged with the coach, parent/guardian and athletic director.

Step 3: If the concern still can't be resolved then a meeting may be arranged with the principal.

ATHLETIC INJURY AND ACCIDENT REPORTS

A. All participants in the athletic program must carry school insurance or sign an

insurance waiver.

B. Any school related injury shall be reported to the coach and an Accident Report

Form must be filed with the office secretary not later than (1) business day after the incident.

C. If an individual has any special medical condition, the coach must be informed.

D. Should an injury be discovered after the athlete has returned home, he/she should seek medical treatment and report the incident to the coach.

CONCUSSION PROTOCOL

        All participants shall adhere to the requirements of Board Policy 7.305 Student Athlete

Concussions and Head Injuries.

SPORTSMANSHIP/CITIZENSHIP

North Clay and state athletic associations place a high value on sportsmanship and citizenship. If a student /athlete exhibits poor sportsmanship/citizenship the following will apply:

A. On the first infraction:

1. Conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal 2. Suspension from two (2) consecutive interscholastic contests at the player's highest level of participation. Player must also be on the bench in street clothes

B. On subsequent infractions:

1. A minimum suspension of four consecutive interscholastic contests at the player's highest level of participation up to dismissal from the squad. Player must also be on the bench in street clothes.

HAZING

Hazing is any act which subjects another student to physical or verbal harassment, mental or physical discomfort, intimidation, embarrassment, ridicule, or demeaning activity committed by an individual student or group of students. These acts will not be tolerated and will result in appropriate action by the administration.

CELL PHONES & ELECTRONIC DEVICE POLICY

Using a smartphone, smart device, cellular telephone, photo/video recording device, personal digital assistant (PDA), or other electronic device in any manner that disrupts the athletic environment or violates the rights of others, including using the device to take photographs in locker rooms or bathrooms, cheat, or otherwise violate student conduct rules is prohibited.   Prohibited conduct specifically includes, without limitation, creating, sending, sharing, viewing, receiving, or possessing an indecent visual depiction of oneself or another person through the use of a computer, electronic communication device, or cellular phone.

No photo/video recording device shall be in use or visible to others in locker rooms or restrooms.  It is acceptable to transfer a device to/from a garment and bag, as long as the device is not in use.  It is also acceptable (if allowed by individual coach/sponsor team rules) to use headphones/earbuds or speakers for music, as long as the controlling device is stowed out of sight and not in other use.  This applies to North Clay facilities and those facilities used by student athletes at all other interscholastic contest locations.  

No electronic device is allowed to be in use while the student athlete is participating in practice or interscholastic contests.  Devices may be used appropriately by student athletes before and after practice and interscholastic contests; including on transportation to away events.  Each coach/sponsor has the right and authority to restrict the use of devices as they deem appropriate under team rules as a form of disciplinary action.

If a student athlete is found to be in violation of this policy, the following will apply:

1. Basic use or violation of team rules:

1. On the first infraction:

• Electronic device may be confiscated and withheld until the end of practice or interscholastic contest; AND
• The parent/guardian contacted; AND
• The student athlete and parent/guardian participate in a conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal.

1. On subsequent infractions:

• Electronic device may be confiscated and withheld until the end of practice or interscholastic contest; AND
• The parent/guardian contacted and required to pick up device; AND
• The student athlete and parent/guardian participate in a conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal; AND
• The student athlete may serve a  suspension of two (2) consecutive interscholastic contests at the player's highest level of participation up to dismissal from the squad. The player must attend those suspended contests on the bench in regular clothes (no uniform).

2. Locker room or restroom violation:

1. On the first infraction:

• Electronic device may be confiscated and withheld until the end of practice or interscholastic contest; AND
• The parent/guardian contacted; AND
• A Conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal; AND
• The student athlete may be suspended for one fifth or 20% of the events that were established before the season began. If one fifth or 20% of the season results in a percentage above a whole number, it will always round up to the next number of events; AND
• The student athlete may miss one fifth of the events regardless of the level of the sport he or she participates in; AND
• All student athletes on suspension shall be at all practices according to the coach/sponsor expectations; AND
• All student athletes on suspension shall be in regular clothing (no uniform) for all scheduled events.  Only exception would be that the student athlete may wear his/her uniform in order to participate in only the pre-game senior night or 8th grade night festivities; AND
• All student athletes on suspension shall pay any other penalty imposed by the coach/sponsor established prior to the start of that season regarding the conduct that is inappropriate; AND
• Playing time shall be solely determined by the coach/sponsor, before and after any incident; AND
• The student athlete will be subject to disciplinary action per the student handbook; AND
• Failure to follow through with all requirements of the first infraction may result in removal from the team.

1. On subsequent infractions:

• Electronic device may be confiscated and withheld until the end of practice or interscholastic contest; AND
• The parent/guardian contacted and required to pick up device; AND
• The student athlete and parent/guardian participate in a conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal; AND
• The student athlete may be removed from the team, AND
• The student athlete will be subject to disciplinary action per the student handbook.

3. Locker room or restroom violation (containing explicit images or video and/or with malicious intent):

1. On the first infraction:

• Electronic device shall be confiscated and withheld until the end of practice or interscholastic contest; AND
• The parent/guardian contacted and required to pick up device; AND
• The student athlete and parent/guardian participate in a conference with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, Principal; AND
• The student athlete is removed from the team; AND
• The athlete may be suspended for one (1) calendar year from all athletics, AND

1. The student athlete will be subject to disciplinary action per the student handbook, and possible criminal charges.

TOBACCO, DRUGS AND ALCOHOL POLICY

In order to promote a high quality athletic program it is necessary to impose some rules on young men and women who have chosen to represent our school.

The "Athletic Year" for North Clay athletes is defined as: 1st day of official practice of any sport within the district, whether it be high school or junior high, (even if the first day of student attendance hasn't occurred) until the last game or practice of any sport (even if school has dismissed for summer break).

If found in the possession or use of tobacco, vapes, vape juice, drugs or alcohol, the following infractions will be enforced. FOR EACH STUDENT/ATHLETE. ONCE AN ATHLETE HAS RECEIVED A FIRST INFRACTION (AS DESCRIBED IN ITEM "A" BELOW). THIS INFRACTION SHALL CARRY AS THE FIRST INFRACTION FOR THEIR ENTIRE SCHOOL CAREER) including grade school athletics). A SUBSEQUENT INFRACTION WILL RESULT AS IN ITEM "C" BELOW :

A. On the first infraction:

Student Athlete will be suspended for 20% of SPORT OR SPORTS THEY ARE ARE PARTICIPATING IN(games). Student Athletes will participate in all practices assigned by the coach, and will sit on the team bench in regular clothing (no uniform) during all contests. Student Athlete will adhere to all other rules in place by coaches previously established before each season begins. Playing time before and after a suspension will be solely determined by the coaching staff.    “20% of events” is defined as 20% of the originally scheduled contests, regardless of cancellations, rain outs, etc. Regarding tournaments, whether local, conference, or state series (regional, sectional, super­ sectional, state tournament, combined) each game within the tournament will count as one game in the total number of suspended games.

B. Guidelines regarding the first infraction:

• The athlete will be suspended for ⅕ or 20% of the events that were established before the season began. If ⅕ or 20% of the season results in a percentage above a whole number, it will always round up to the next number of events.

• The athlete will miss  ⅕ of the events regardless of the level of the sport he or she participates in.

• All athletes on suspension shall be at all practices according to the coach's expectations.

• All athletes shall be in regular clothing (no uniform) for all scheduled events.  Only exception would be that the athlete may wear his/her uniform in order to participate in the senior night or 8th grade night.

• All athletes shall pay any other penalty imposed by the coach established prior to the start of that season regarding the conduct that is inappropriate.

• Playing time shall be solely determined by the coach, before and after any incident.

• Athletes (if seniors or in 8th grade) will be allowed to participate in Senior Night or 8th Grade Night if currently suspended within this policy.

• Failure to follow through with all requirements of the first infraction shall result in a (1) one calendar year suspension from athletics.

C. For subsequent infractions: Athlete will be suspended for one (1) calendar year from the date of the start of the suspension from the particular incident.

D. If an athlete decides to drop a sport, he/she will be expected to:

1) Meet with his/her head coach of the sport, AND OR THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR and explain the reason for deciding not to continue to participate. This must be stated in writing by the athlete.

2) Return any equipment that has been checked out.

3) Meet with the head coach of the next sport he/she wishes to participate in, AND OR THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR.

ELIGIBILITY

• To be academically eligible, North Clay students must meet all state athletic and District standards. This includes the district’s NO PASS/NO PLAY policy.
• Eligibility is turned in on Friday of every week by 9am and is effective from Monday to Saturday of the following week.
• Academic eligibility will be calculated starting the 2nd week of each grading period.
• After three weeks of ineligibility during the same season, the student/athlete will be dismissed from the squad.
• Ineligible athletes shall be required to attend practices and games at the discretion of the parents and Coach.

GENERAL REGULATIONS

Each participant must abide by all rules and regulations of the State Athletic Associations and the sport they are participating in.

• Each coach or sponsor will distribute a list of their team rules to students and parents. These rules shall be pre-­approved by the Athletic Director and building principal. The student/athlete and his/her parent or guardian should sign these forms along with the handbook form. These forms must be completed and returned before they will be allowed to practice or participate in an actual contest between schools.

• Athletic registration information will be made available by the athletic director and communicated with parents and athletes.

• All completed  forms will be collected by the Athletic Director  before the start of the season. All students/athletes must have all forms turned in, including a physical exam, before they can participate.
• Any parent unable to attend any scheduled coach’s or athletic meeting may be required to set up a time to meet with the athletic director to discuss the rules, handbook and turn in their athletes physical before the first day of official practice.

• School attendance (prior to an event) ­ An athlete must be in attendance at least 1/2 day (11:30 a.m.) to be eligible to participate that evening in a game, practice, or tournament, unless they have a doctor's note or prior clearance through the principal. If a student becomes ill in the afternoon and leaves school, they will not be allowed to participate in that evening's event. Any participant with a doctor's excuse from P.E. on the day of a contest will automatically be ineligible from athletic competition (excluding scholar bowl).
• Suspension from school ­ The student/athlete is excluded from participating in any practice and/or game situation while the suspension is in effect, nor may they be on school grounds without prior approval from the principal. IF A STUDENT/ATHLETE IS SUSPENDED FROM SCHOOL AND IS IN THE MIDST OF AN ATHLETIC SUSPENSION FOR 20% OF A SEASON, SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL WILL SUPERCEDE ANY EVENTS MISSED DURING THAT TIME COUNTING TOWARDS THE 20% PORTION OF A SEASON. IN OTHER WORDS, IF AN ATHLETE IS SUSPENDED FOR 7 GAMES (FOR EXAMPLE) AND HAS TWO GAMES LEFT TO SIT OUT FOR THAT SUSPENSION, RECEIVING A SUSPENSION FROM SCHOOL DURING THOSE TWO GAMES WILL EXTEND THE ATHLETE BEING SUSPENDED FROM TWO ADDITIONAL GAMES AFTER THE NEXT TWO EVENTS ARE CONCLUDED.
• Any act of disrespect or display of flagrant misconduct will be cause for immediate dismissal from the squad and North Clay Athletics. Any student/athlete who has been dismissed from a squad for an act of disrespect or misconduct shall be expected to meet with the building principal to explain their behavior and apply for re admission to the athletic program FOR THAT CALENDAR YEAR.
• If a student/athlete wishes to go out for a sport they must do so before the first game unless he/she is a transfer student. All regulations regarding residency and eligibility from state associations will be followed.

STUDENT ATHLETE TRANSPORTATION

• All athletes will ride the bus to the game or event.
• Any exceptions must be cleared with the administration in advance of the scheduled event by submitting the Athletic Transportation Release form.
• Athletes will be released after an athletic contest to a parent/guardian provided the parent/guardian has signed the designated sign-out sheet.

EARLY DISMISSAL

It is the policy of North Clay and the Athletic Department to schedule all athletic contests so that students miss a minimum of class time for travel to away games or home contests.

1. Head coaches should make sure arrangements with the Principal and/or Athletic Director to have students excused from class when ABSOLUTELY necessary because of travel or contest.

2. It is the responsibility of the student athlete to meet with his/her teacher the day before the class he/she is to miss because of an athletic contest.

USE OF SCHOOL FACILITIES

• At NCCUSD # 25 students who are not able to fully attend practice on Wednesday nights will be excused. Additionally, NO Practices will be held on Sundays with the exception of tournaments that shall have a contest on the following Monday, unless approved by Administration.
• Practices shall not occur on Thanksgiving Day, the Friday after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Independence Day, unless approved by Administration.
• No games will be scheduled on Wednesday evenings unless they are a part of the state series or other tournament, unless approved by Administration. (Example: Dieterich Holiday Tournament, Conference Tournament, Conrad Allen Tournament, Bass Fishing Competitions)
• In the case school is canceled because of inclement weather, the Athletic Director and school administration will determine if it is safe enough to have practice at the school. No coach will schedule practice on these days without confirming with the administration.
• Summer contact days for all of NCCUSD #25 will follow IHSA guidelines. Persons who coach a sport at NCCUSD #25 may have a maximum of 25 days of contact in that sport with students from that school during the period between Monday of Week 49 in the IHSA Standardized Calendar in the spring each year and Sunday of Week 5 in the IHSA Standardized Calendar. The students may have a maximum of 25 days of contact per sport with persons who coach that sport at the school they attend during the same time period. A day of contact is defined as any date on which any coaching or instruction in the skills and techniques of any sport takes place. (IHSA BYLAW 3.153)
• There shall be a dead week the week of the 4th of July to allow for any family planned vacation. This week will be established and communicated to the coaches by the Athletic Director.  IHSA/IESA stated policy may affect this policy.  
• Coaches must follow their association's open gym policy.

DUAL SPORT/ACTIVITY PARTICIPATION

• Students are allowed to participate in two co-curricular sports/activities during the same season.  Students wishing to participate in two sports/activities during the same season will need to obtain a request form from the athletic director and follow the guidelines set down by the school district in the Dual-Activity Participation Policy.  Requests must be turned in before the first contest/event.

PRACTICE

• All practices will be closed to the public until the last 10 minutes of practice for the safety of the student athletes and coaches.
• Any guest speaker aiding in practice may need to be approved by the school administration.
• Any other practice rules will follow each individual athletic teams list of rules.

USE OF ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT

• One of the values of athletics is to teach responsibility and this should apply to the care of the athletic equipment as well as school property. Equipment is issued, and each athlete is expected to take excellent care of this equipment.
• If the equipment needs repair or is not the right size, the athlete will exchange it and see that the change is noted on the equipment sheet.
• The athlete agrees to accept responsibility for any uniform and other school equipment. In the event that the athlete should lose or damage it, the athlete agrees to reimburse North Clay for its replacement value.
• Any person with unauthorized and/or misused athletic equipment may be subject to legal action to obtain equipment or damages. Parents can help enforce this by seeing that the athlete does not have this lost equipment at home.
• When an athlete completes a sport, he/she is ineligible to receive equipment for a new sport until he/she has paid all fees for lost equipment and turned in all other equipment previously checked out to him/her. He/she will also receive a one-­game suspension for each week being late in returning his/her equipment in any sport participating in during the school year (carried over to the next year if needed).
• If equipment is not returned then, grade cards/transcripts may be placed on hold until all equipment is returned or the school is reimbursed. All equipment must be turned in no later than one week after the last date of competition.

ISSUING OF ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT

Each head coach is directly responsible for the care and control of all equipment used in his/her program.

1. Coaches will follow the established system to distribute and collect athletic equipment that is determined by the Athletic Director. Each coach must also maintain an equipment list that is to be turned in to the Athletic Director at the beginning and conclusion of each season.

 2. Coaches should select student managers and thoroughly explain their duties. These individuals are key to good equipment control and maintenance.

3. The head coach, although he/she may delegate the issuing of equipment to assistant coaches, is ultimately responsible for the issuing of equipment to all team personnel. Each coach should have the knowledge to ensure properly fitting equipment. DO NOT leave this to the student manager.

4. Coaches must instruct players in the proper use, care (cleaning), and maintenance of their equipment at the time of issue.

5. Coaches must periodically inspect and review the equipment issued to the student athletes to ensure safety. Helmets, bats, nets, supporting poles, etc., may break or deteriorate and become unsafe during the year. Replace unsafe or defective equipment must be replaced. Facility hazards should be reported to the Athletic Director or Principal immediately.

WEIGHT AREA SAFETY

1. There shall be no weight lifting without a coach being physically present.

2. Absolutely NO horseplay.

3. Under no circumstances should anyone lift alone.

4. NEVER interfere with a person who is lifting.

5. Make sure that the area is clear of equipment before lifting.

6. Make eye contact with nearby students before lifting.

7. Return weights to the rack.

8. Make sure collars are snug.

9. Spot carefully!! Concentrate on the lifter.

10. Keep the weight area clean. Do not bring food, glass bottles, etc.

11. Protect the lower back: head up, buttocks down when lifting; spread the chest.

THE LEADERSHIP QUALITIES OF A TEAM CAPTAIN

• Remember that team captain is a privilege and the following must be observed at all times: The team captain is chosen by the coaching staff of each sport.

• Role Model ­ hardworking, committed, dedicated, humble, leader by example, positive attitude, and

shows respect for coaches, teachers, adults and peers

• Exhibits good citizenship, ­dependable, loyal, trustworthy, and unselfish/has a great deal of pride in the team, school and community

• Committed to be alcohol, tobacco and drug free ­ shows social confidence

• Has strong self image, mature, motivated, good communication skills

• Good school behavior, acceptable academic progress

• Willingness to follow team rules and act as a liaison between teammates, coaches, athletic director and principal

• If at any time these guidelines are not followed the privilege of being a captain may be forfeited.

HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC AWARDS CRITERIA

Certificate: A student/athlete who does not qualify for a varsity letter in their sport will receive a participation certificate.

Numerals: A first-­year athlete who participates in a sport, including scholar bowl and cheerleading, will receive his or her 2­inch numeral signifying the year of graduation.

Shield: A second-­year athlete who participates in a sport, including scholar bowl and cheerleading, will receive his or her 5­inch chenille block shield.

Varsity Letters: An athlete who earns a varsity letter, will receive the 6­inch chenille block "NC" letter, with a pin to distinguish the varsity letter. Athletes who qualify for second, third, and fourth varsity letters in a sport will receive gold awards bars.

Senior Plaques: Seniors will receive a plaque from the North Clay Sports Boosters (if available) acknowledging each sport including scholar bowl and cheerleading in which the senior participated during his/her high school career.

Earning a Varsity Letter: An athlete may earn one varsity letter for each sport they participated along with the appropriate pins. Any senior who has three years of honorable service in a particular sport will qualify for a varsity letter.

Qualifications for a Varsity Letter

1. The student/athlete must be in a varsity sport for a full season.

2. Length of time spent in practice and faithfulness in attendance.

3. Number of seasons engaged in activity.

4. Attitude toward self-­improvement, team play and general practice regulations

5. Observance of training regulations.

6. Special factors, such as injuries, illness, etc.

7. General conduct and sportsmanship in all school activities, including athletic and non­-athletic activities.

Cooperative Team An athlete who is a member of a cooperative team must meet the guidelines of the host school in the cooperative agreement.

Athletic Manager: Must carry out the duties as assigned by the coach and have been a member of the squad for the entire season. First­-year manager will receive numerals only Second­-year manager will receive a shield Manager of varsity teams with no previous experience in that sport shall receive an award at the discretion of the coach. Managers of varsity teams with at least one (1) previous season of experience, and junior class standing shall receive a varsity award

QUALIFICATIONS for MVP OF A SPORT/ACTIVITY: The coaching staff shall choose the MVP taking into consideration the following criteria:

A. Leadership Qualities (on field/court and off)

B. Sportsmanship/Team Player

C. Maintains good faith towards coaches and fellow players

D. Adheres to the guidelines of the Athletic Code of Conduct and team rules

E. Any violations may result in the loss of privilege to receive any individual award.

JR. HIGH ATHLETIC AWARD CRITERIA

SPORTS Students may earn school letters (monograms) for participation in athletics. Students are not issued more than one letter per school year; additional letters earned are designated by metal emblems. School letters (monograms) may be earned in the following manner:

Certificate: A member of the varsity team that does not qualify for a varsity letter in his/her sport will receive a participation certificate.

BASEBALL 1) An eighth grader who is a member of the squad for the entire baseball season 2) Varsity performance based upon specific needs of the team

SOFTBALL 1) An eighth grader who is a member of the squad for the entire softball season 2) Varsity performance based upon specific needs of the team

BASKETBALL 1) An eighth grader who is a member of the squad for the entire basketball season 2) Varsity performance based upon specific needs of the team

CROSS COUNTRY 1) An eighth grader who is a member of the squad for the entire cross country season 2) Varsity performance based upon specific needs of the team

TRACK 1) Fifteen points earned during the track season, including conference and state Sponsored meets 2) One point earned at the conference or state track meets. 3) An average of one point earned in all meets including conference meets 4) Participation by an eighth grader for the entire track season 5) Fifth Grade students are not eligible for track letters

VOLLEYBALL 1) An eighth grader who is a member of the squad for the entire volleyball season 2) Varsity performance based upon specific needs of the team

CHEERLEADING A varsity cheerleader may earn a school cheerleading letter by serving the entire season

ATHLETIC MANAGER Athletic managers are selected on an individual basis by the junior high coaches. Students are recommended for letter awards by the coaches; however, only students serving as managers for the entire season shall be eligible for the award.

SCHOLAR BOWL Students who participate in scholar bowl earn a letter during their first year of participation and a pin during their second and third year of participation.

QUALIFICATIONS for MVP OF A SPORT/ACTIVITY: The coaching staff shall choose the MVP taking into consideration the following criteria:

A. Leadership Qualities (on field/court and off)

B. Sportsmanship/Team Player

C. Maintains good faith towards coaches and fellow players

D. Adheres to the guidelines of the Athletic Code of Conduct and team rules

E. Any violations may result in the loss of privilege to receive any individual award.

NORTH CLAY ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

I have read and understand the North Clay Athletic Handbook policy adopted by the North Clay Unit #25 School Board.

Participant Signature:_____________________________

     Date: _____________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature:______________________________

     Date: _____________________________