Athletics

PHILOSOPHY OF ATHLETICS

The Stella Niagara Education Park (SNEP) believes that an athletic program should provide opportunities for students to develop their talents in a well-organized manner under the guidance of competent coaches. By maintaining a more varied sports program, the opportunity exists for a large number of students to participate in athletics while developing skills useful in future endeavors.

Because of the high interest of spectators in the outcome of athletic contests, sports provide an opportunity to express our educational philosophy to the entire Stella Niagara Community and beyond. Mindful of both the positive contribution of athletics as well as the potential for undesirable consequences, we hereby set forth the goals of our athletic Program.

· To recognize and support the role of athletics in serving as an example of our Franciscan and Christian lifestyles and

· To give public witness to our school's belief in the development of the whole person; spirit, mind and body, by competing with full positive effort, self control and exemplary conduct

· To supplement the academic program by providing for the development of physical skills and personal character

· To provide an opportunity and encourage the student/athlete to learn the value of hard work, discipline, self sacrifice and teamwork

· To conduct a sports program in accordance with the values, the letter and the spirit of the rules and regulations of our school.

To achieve these goals, the student athlete, coaches and administration will work together to abide by the regulations of the sports program. By adhering to high ethical standards, we will maintain the best possible climate for personal growth, spirited competition and loyal community support

ATHLETICS

“The Stella North Stars”

The Athletic program at SNEP respects the uniqueness of each student. It encourages and moves the athlete towards established standards of physical fitness, and positive attitudes towards team members, coaches, and officials. The Franciscan, Christian heritage of SNEP is reflected in the values of fair play, good sportsmanship and cooperation. These values are held as important for developmental, recreational, and competitive sports. Parents, coaches and players work together to create an environment that reflects athletic fitness, principles of fair play, and respect for others.

A major goal of the athletic program is to enable the athlete to develop an individual plan for lifetime fitness.

The Stella Niagara athletic/sports program consists of three (3) recognizable levels of play; they are Developmental, Recreational and Competitive. They are defined as follows:

1. Developmental

a) introduces sport-specific skills

b) emphasizes development of skills

c) involves minimal competition

d) is promoted within the school’s physical education program

2. Recreational

a) maximizes and equalizes participation

b) emphasizes an enjoyable, leisure activity

c) requires less formal structure

3. Competitive (Varsity)

a) emphasizes the pursuit of excellence

b) it is understood that there will be wins and losses

c) emphasis is on individuals and teams playing their best, and good sportsmanship is exhibited when winning or losing

d) requires more formal structure

Note: At the Developmental & Recreational level of play all players are expected to be treated fairly and given the opportunity to play. At the Competitive level (Varsity), Coaches may take into account a player’s attitude, attendance and performance when managing a player’s time on the field or court.

Athletic Programs

Sport Gender/Grade Eligibility Season

Swim Team Boys/Girls K-8 Fall

Soccer Boys/Girls 6-8 Fall

Soccer Boys/Girls 1-8 Spring

Basketball:

Junior Varsity Boys/Girls 4-6 Winter

Varsity Boys/Girls 6-8 Winter

Bowling Boys/Girls K-8 Winter

Track Boys/Girls K-8 Spring

Fees: A schedule of yearly fees for each sport will be published in the August newsletter.

SNEP assesses a fee to the following sports:

Fall soccer

JV and Varsity Basketball

Spring Soccer

Swim Team

Track

Team fees are expected to be paid at the beginning of each season. If there is any problem with payment of fees, please contact the school office.

Ski Club and Bowling each have a specific fee to cover the costs involved.

ATHLETE’S BILL OF RIGHTS

Athletes participate in sport for a variety of reasons and have many expectations. Whether it's to attain a personal goal, a higher level of competition or simply for the pure joy of sport, parents and coaches hold the key in athletes' choices to participate.

Athletes have the right to:

· to participate in sports:

· have fun through sports;

· participate at a level that is consistent with ability & maturity;

· have qualified, adult leadership;

· to play as a child not as an adult;

· participate in a safe and healthy environment;

· share in the leadership and decision-making of their sport;

· have the opportunity to participate in sport regardless of ability or income level;

· proper preparation for participation in the sport;

· an equal opportunity to strive for success;

· be treated with dignity by all involved;

· Say 'No'.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Before you can begin tryouts, practice, scrimmage or play you must have the following official school documents completed, signed and turned in to your coach.

1. Permission and Release Form
2. Medical History Questionnaire *
3. Physician's Examination Form *

* These documents are printed on one piece of paper and must be on file in the School Office by the date specified for each season.

The medical forms must be completed within the legal time frame as explained in the letter. Once a valid Medical form is on file, it is good for all subsequent sport seasons in that school year. Parents must also complete the medical update section on the Permission and Release Form.

Please Note Permission and Release Form is required for every different sport in which a student participates.

Do not delay in returning these forms; you cannot participate in any sports activity unless they are complete and signed. Permission and Release Forms may be turned in to the coach not earlier than one week before the opening day of the season.

BASIC ELIGIBILITY RULES

· You must be a student of Stella Niagara Education Park.

· Students are expected to maintain passing grades while participating in any extra-curricular activities sponsored by the school. Students are also responsible for keeping up with homework and classroom assignments.

· If a student receives two or more five-week reports, he/she is on probation and suspended from participating in the activity until the teacher verifies improvement in writing to school administration. The probation will be lifted when improvement is made and the teacher who issued the five-week report notifies the Administration in writing. If a student receives two “D’s” and/or two “F’s” on the Progress Report, he/she will be on probation and is suspended from participating in the sports activity until the teacher verifies improvement in writing to school administration.

· Parents, students, coordinators and coaches will be notified by the SNEP administration regarding any student who is on probation and suspended from participating in extra-curricular activities.

· Players who are ejected from a game are ineligible for the next two games and are subject to the sanctions listed in the Athletic Code of Conduct. (Also see Team Conduct)

· The school reserves the right to set more stringent requirements for our own athletic program.

TRAINING / PRACTICE GUIDELINES

· Practice times will be scheduled and announced.

· Since practices are important to the success of the team and personal development, you are expected to be in attendance.

· Plan appointments around the scheduled times.

· Since the coaches are required to remain on site until all team members have vacated the premises, it is necessary for athletes and their parents to make transportation arrangements in advance. Habitual failure to be picked up on time may result in dismissal from the team. Parents are to be on time for pick up after games and practices. Please review the transportation policy.

· You should not wear necklaces, rings, earrings, watches while training, practicing or participating in games for safety reasons.

· Please bring appropriate clothing for workouts in various weather conditions and dry items for after practice.

· Members of outdoor teams should bring sneakers in case practice is moved indoors.

· SMOKING or the use of chewing tobacco, alcohol, drugs or steroids is a direct violation of training and school rules. Both the Athletic Committee and SNEP Administration will deal with infractions.

UNIFORMS AND EQUIPMENT

· Uniforms must be kept clean and under security.

· Uniforms and warm ups are for game use only and are not for street wear.

· Report any loss, theft or damage to your coach.

· Do not use any equipment or protective gear, which is no longer safe or functional.

· School issued team warm ups are for use only on game or meet days. They may not be worn for personal use as a "jacket" or for practice sessions.

· Lost, stolen or intentionally damaged uniforms and/or equipment must be replaced at cost.

· A deposit may be required of the athletes who participate in Varsity Basketball and Fall soccer. Upon return of the uniform, cleaned and in good condition at season’s end, the deposit will be returned to the student.

NOTE: Equipment will be repaired or replaced at parent's expense, at over the counter cost. We will notify you concerning the amount owed.

At the end of each season, all uniform components and equipment must be returned in good condition and on the date specified by the coach. No one will be issued equipment for the next season until items from the previous season are returned. Award recognition, grades and diplomas will be withheld until uniforms and equipment are returned.

ACCIDENTS/INJURY

The coaching staff will endeavor to reduce the risk of injury by maintaining professional standards. However, as a condition of participating in sports, the athlete and his parent(s) must sign the Warning Statement section of the Permission and Release Form. Participation in athletics may result in injury, paralysis or even death and choosing to participate acknowledges these risks. The emergency and medical update section of the Permission and Release Form must also be completed and a current medical history/physicians exam form must be on file before participating in athletics. The School Office will generate a “medically cleared to play” list.

Appropriate measures will be taken in event of an incident and you will be called if necessary. The selection of a physician or a facility for follow up treatment or rehabilitation is a personal choice and does not affect school insurance coverage.

If an athlete receives an injury that prevents full/customary participation in practice or games for one week or more, they will be placed on the school's "Restricted Activities List" and may not resume full team activity until "Cleared" by a physician.

Insurance Coverage

The combination of parental and school insurance plans has been very effective in covering the reasonable and customary costs of medical expenses. All students are covered by the school’s insurance policy. However, parents must use their own insurance coverage first. The school’s policy is considered Full Excess which requires that claims be submitted to your primary carrier first. In order to expedite payment of claims, parents of students who have sustained an injury as a result of athletics should obtain a claim form from the School Office as soon as possible. Remember that filing a claim is the parent’s responsibility.

POST SEASON ACTIVITIES

We celebrate the end of each Sport Season with an Awards Ceremony, where ALL athletes receive a certificate and Special Awards are presented. Athletes from all level teams are expected to attend and family members and guests are invited to join us for this special evening event.

Flyers about these events will be distributed to the students well in advance and athletes are expected to dress appropriately and sit with their family.

TEAM CONDUCT

Student athletes are bound by the SNEP Code of Conduct as stated in the Student/Parent Handbook . Coaches may establish additional regulations which you are expected to follow. A player who is ejected from a game must meet with SNEP administration the next school day. Further disciplinary measures may be taken including expulsion from the team. Athletes represent the total school community. Therefore, it is the student’s responsibility to reflect his/her best image in exchange for the privilege of wearing a team uniform. One’s personal conduct in and out of school, appearance, classroom behavior and general attitude in activities (in the athletic arena and at social functions) should always exemplify the best of Stella Niagara.

TO THE STUDENT ATHLETE:

We believe that you have reached the stage of development where lengthy list of "do's and don't" are not necessary to insure proper conduct. However, experience has shown that there are a few problem areas that need specific attention:

A. LOCKER ROOMS. Please consolidate all your gear into a gym bag and be sure to place all bags in your locker. Do not leave items loose in the locker room. Report any missing items to your coach. Athletes should not leave items anywhere in the locker room, gym or field areas. THEFT WILL NOT BE TOLERATED!

NO FOOD OR DRINKS ARE PERMITTED IN THE LOCKER ROOMS.

Please be considerate when the "away" team, our guests, are using "your" locker room. Do not enter the area if you will be invading privacy or disrupting instruction between periods. The same consideration applies to our own teams when it is necessary to share facilities.

B. AWAY GAMES

You are a guest of the host school while participating in an away game. All of our own school rules go with you. Please do not bring jewelry or other expensive items with you.

ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT

The athletic program at Stella Niagara has as its primary objective the development of self discipline, a spirit of cooperation, good citizenship and respect for rules and authority. We seek to instill in our students, principles of justice, fair play and good sportsmanship within a Christian environment.

In order to accomplish these objectives, it is necessary to develop and maintain a team and school spirit that is based on Christian principles, discipline and uniformity of goals. Certain regulations are necessary to prevent the disruption of team spirit. The benefits to be gained in the formation of personal character, initiative and teamwork will far outweigh any possible impairment of student right.

Because of our tradition more is expected of us in terms of how we live our Christian faith and values, even on the athletic field. A difference must be seen in our behavior, decorum and sportsmanship. We believe that if the athletes, the spectators and the parents of Stella Niagara will live in the spirit as well as in the letter of the stated regulations; fun, victories and championships will surely follow.

A. ATHLETIC COURTESY

Athletics should foster sportsmanship at all times. It is the privilege (not a right) of each one of us associated with athletics to manifest our principles in our own actions. Failure to comply with these rules will result in expulsion from the team as well as further disciplinary action.

· Visiting teams are guests of Stella Niagara and are to be treated with respect and courtesy at all times.

· The rules of the game are to be observed by all. Absolutely no unsportsmanlike conduct will be tolerated. Athletes ejected from a game by a referee are subject to further disciplinary action by the principal of the school, including possible expulsion from the team for the remainder of the season.

· Fighting at an athletic event regardless of the circumstances and the people involved will never be tolerated. Violators will be subject to extreme disciplinary action.

B. STUDENT ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITIES

It is the primary responsibility of each athlete to do everything in his/her power to promote good sportsmanship and a healthy spirit at Stella Niagara.

· The athlete must realize that he/she represents a tradition of fairness and compassion in competition.

· Learn teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline.

· Be a team player - get along with your teammates.

· The athlete is to develop the self-control necessary to perform one's best in competition and prepare for the future; avoiding poor sportsmanship, loss of temper, fighting, abusive language and/or gestures.

· Never argue with the official’s decision.

· The athlete is to learn that performing to the best of one's ability is far more important than winning or losing. Work hard to improve your skills

· Respect your coach, your teammates, and your parents, opponents and officials.

· Play for FUN!

· Be on time for practices and games.

C. LEAVING A TEAM

Occasionally a student-athlete considers leaving a team or not finishing the season. Obviously this is an important decision and one that should not be finalized while under emotional stress. Feelings of this nature should first be discussed privately with your coach. Athletes are strongly advised to also see the Director of Education about such a matter before making a final decision. Any athlete who quits a team without seeing someone in school administration about the matter will be called in for a private conference.

D. ATTENDANCE POLICY

Attendance is imperative to the basic development of individual skills, fundamentals, as well as a sound foundation for team discipline, unity, spirit, commitment and loyalty.

Attendance at Practice

1. On the third unexcused absence from practice. Suspension from next two consecutive athletic contests

2.On the fourth unexcused absence from practice Expulsion from the team for the remainder of season

Attendance at Contest

1. First unexcused absence from contest - Suspension from team from date of offense for a minimum period of four weeks (allowed to practice, not allowed to participate in contests)

2. Second unexcused absence from a contest - Expulsion from team for the remainder of season.

*unexcused = no contact or communication initiated by the student or parent with the coach or appropriate party.

Vacation Policy

All student/athletes are expected to attend all practices, scheduled scrimmages and games during all school times.
The only exceptions to this policy are as follows:

1. Planned family vacations in which the student/athlete will be in the company of his/her parents and have so informed the coach in writing.

2. At the individual coaches' discretion because of unforeseen or extenuating circumstances.
It is understood that enforcement of this policy is to encourage commitment by the student/athlete to his/her team and teammates.

The first priority is to those student/athletes who are faithful to the adherence to the fairness and tradition of a team player.

E. STUDENT/PARENT & SPECTATOR RESPONSIBILITIES

Attending an athletic event means that the spectator has assumed a responsibility for proper representation of Stella Niagara, just as the athlete does. These rules apply to all spectators; students and parents alike.

· Spectators are to appreciate and give proper recognition to the good in others.

· Spectators are to cheer positively and are to totally avoid "booing" and abusive language and vulgarity. Spectators are not permitted to engage in any kind of intentional display of rude behavior (such as turning their backs on members of the opposing team, cheerleaders, and band).

· Spectators are to respect and obey property regulations established by each school.

· Spectators are always to regard the official’s decision as final.

These rules are in effect at both home and away games for Stella Niagara athletes, student spectators and parents, even when not observed by opposing teams and fans. Failure to meet these standards will result in disciplinary action.

F. SPECIFIC PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

Stella Niagara Education Park has adopted the following policy for ALL athletic contests:

Do not force an unwilling child to participate in sports.

	Remember children are involved in organized sports for their enjoyment, not yours.
	Teach your child always to play by the rules.
	Teach your child that hard work and an honest effort are often more important than a victory.
	Help your child work toward skill improvement and good sportsmanship in every game.
	Your child will then be a winner, even in defeat. Do not ridicule or yell at your child for making a mistake or for losing a game.
	Set a good example. Children learn best by example.
	Cheer good plays by both teams! Never argue with the referee -the club is subject to fines and the coach can be carded which could lead to a suspension.
	Leave the coaching to the coach.
	Follow appropriate chain of command when addressing concerns. First start with the coach, and if the issue is not resolved, contact a Board Member or attend a meeting to address concerns.

COACHING CODE OF CONDUCT

The athlete/coach relationship is a privileged one. Coaches play a critical role in the personal as well as athletic development of their athletes. They must understand and respect the inherent power imbalance that exists in this relationship and must be extremely careful not to abuse it. Coaches must also recognize that they are conduits through which the values and goals of a sport organization are channeled. Thus how an athlete regards his/her sport is often dependent on the behavior of the coach. The following Code of Conduct has been developed to aid coaches in achieving a level of behavior, which will allow their athletes in becoming well-rounded, self confident and productive human beings.

Although this code is directed toward coaching conduct it equally applies to other members of the "Team Leadership Staff" i.e. volunteers and assistants. It is assumed that these people act in cooperation with one another to construct a suitable environment for the athlete.

COACHES HAVE A RESPONSIBILITY TO:

1) As a coach of an SNEP team you will be the major influence in instilling the values and beliefs of the school in the sport you are coaching. All athletes and coaches are expected to reflect the values stated in the school’s mission, philosophy and code of conduct. Become familiar with the SNEP mission, philosophy and code of conduct as outlined at the beginning of this handbook.

2) Treat everyone fairly within the context of their activity, regardless of gender, place of origin, color, sexual orientation, religion, political belief or economic status.

3) Direct comments or criticism at the performance rather than the athlete.

4) Consistently display high personal standards and project a favorable image of their sport

and coaching

a) Refrain from public criticism of fellow coaches, athletes, officials and volunteers especially when speaking to the media or recruiting athletes.

b) Abstain from the use of tobacco products while in the presence of her/his athletes.

c) Abstain from drinking alcoholic beverages when working with athletes.

d) Discourage the use of alcohol in conjunction with athletic events or victory celebrations at the playing site.

e) Refrain from the use of profane, insulting, harassing or otherwise offensive language in the conduct of his/her duties.

5) Ensure that the activity being undertaken is suitable for the age, experience, and ability and fitness level of the athelete and educate athletes as to their responsibilities in contributing to a safe environment.

6) Communicate and co-operate with registered medical practitioners in the diagnoses, treatment and management of their athletes’ medical and psychological problems. Consider the athletes’ future health and well-being as foremost when making decisions regarding injured athletes and their ability to continue playing or training.

7) Recognize and accept when to refer athletes to other coaches or sport specialists. Allow athletes' goals to take precedence over them.

8) Regularly seek ways of increasing professional development and self-awareness.

9) Treat opponents and officials with due respect both in victory and defeat and encourage athletes to act accordingly. Actively encourage athletes to uphold the rules of their sport and the spirit of such rules.

10) In the case of minors, communicate and cooperate with the athletes' parents or legal guardians, involving them in management decisions pertaining to their child’s development.

11) Be aware of the many pressures placed on athletes as they strive to balance the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of their lives and conduct practices and games in a manner so as to allow optimum success.

COACHES MUST:

1) Ensure the safety of the athletes with whom they work.

2) Respect athlete’s dignity; verbal or physical behaviors that constitute harassment or abuse are unacceptable.

3) Never advocate or condone the use of drugs or other banned performance enhancing substances.

4) Never provide under age athletes with alcohol; never encourage its use.

5) Please submit to your coordinator from the Athletic Committee a roster of the students participating on your team.

6) Parent permission forms and medical releases are required of all students participating in SNEP sports; please give these out and collect them from your players, then give a copy to the coordinator.

7) Publish in writing the expectations you have of student participation in practices and attendance at games, meets, etc. A copy of your handouts should be given to the coordinator and approved by the school.

8) Schedules will be posted on the Sports Bulletin Board on the first floor of the school; however, it is advisable that each player be given a schedule to take home.

9) If school uniforms are a part of the sport you coach, the coordinator will communicate with you about the procedures for distributing and collecting. The coordinator will assist you in the collection of fees and deposits as well.

10) Please see that the gym/pool is left in order after practice; equipment is returned to its proper place, lights are out, showers turned off, dressing room lights are out, etc.

11) If your sport involves games or meets in Stella’s gym/pool or one of the fields, please communicate with your coordinator as to who will be responsible for opening the building, having necessary help for scoring, setting up tables, chairs, etc.

12) You will also work with your coordinator in preparing for the end-of-season awards ceremony. He/She will discuss the details of trophies, dinners, and dates.

I have read and understand the above statements and agree to conduct myself in a manner that demonstrates the standards established in the Coaching Code of Conduct and Coaching Code of Ethics.

Name of Coach: ________________________________

Signed: _____________________________

Date: _______________________

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This page was last updated on 03/03/2007 11:30 AM -0500

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