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FAUQUIER COUNTYATHLETIC HANDBOOK

Table of ContentsFAUQUIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ATHLETIC MISSION STATEMENT...............................................................................4

Requirements for Participation.........................................................................................................................................4

Individual Eligibility Requirements....................................................................................................................................4

ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT...............................................................................................................................................6

General Conduct of Athletes.............................................................................................................................................6

Prohibited Behaviors.........................................................................................................................................................6

Absences.......................................................................................................................................................................6

Harassment...................................................................................................................................................................6

Hazing............................................................................................................................................................................6

Physical Violence/Aggression........................................................................................................................................7

Social Media..................................................................................................................................................................7

Substance Abuse...........................................................................................................................................................7

EXPECTATIONS, RULES AND RESPONSIBILITIES GOVERNING SCHOOL ATHLETICS................................................................7

STUDENTS.........................................................................................................................................................................7

Participation..................................................................................................................................................................7

Attendance in School.....................................................................................................................................................8

Games and Practice Attendance....................................................................................................................................8

Individual Coach’s Rule..................................................................................................................................................8

Travel for Athletic Events..............................................................................................................................................8

Reporting an Injury........................................................................................................................................................8

Lettering Requirements.................................................................................................................................................9

Sportsmanship...............................................................................................................................................................9

FANS AND SPECTATORS........................................................................................................................................................9

PARENTS..............................................................................................................................................................................10

Parent-Coach Relationship..........................................................................................................................................10

Communications to Expect from your Student-Athlete’s Coach.................................................................................10

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Communication Coaches Expect from Parents............................................................................................................10

Examples of Concerns to Discuss with the Coaching Staff...........................................................................................10

Procedures for Communicating with Your Student-Athlete’s Coach...........................................................................10

If the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution:....................................................................11

Letter From the Athletic Trainer: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………13

Fauquier High School Concussion Policy: ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….16

IMPACT Testing Information: ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..18

CDC Concussion Fact Sheet: …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..20

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT AND UNDERSTANDING................................................................................................23

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FAUQUIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS ATHLETIC MISSION STATEMENT

Fauquier County Public Schools (FCPS), an innovative learning community, is committed to developing creative, confident, knowledgeable, and responsible world citizens by cultivating the potential of each learner. Our mission in the athletic departments of Fauquier County Public Schools is to provide a rigorous athletic program which complements and supports the Fauquier County Public Schools mission by teaching our student-athletes to challenge themselves, to be positive emissaries of Fauquier County, and to make positive contributions to their school and community, on and off the playing field. The Fauquier County Public Schools athletic department and Fauquier County Public Schools administrators are mindful that the education and welfare of each student-athlete is their primary responsibility and transcends all other responsibilities.

Requirements for Participation

1. Physical Examination : A yearly physical examination is required. The Virginia High School League (VHSL) physical form must be completed by a physician and submitted to the athletic department prior to participation. The physical covers all sports for the entire school year provided the examination occurred after May 1 of the current school year through June 30 of the following school year. This form will be kept on file in the athletic training office.

2. FCPS Concussion Guidelines for Parents and Athletes (Signatures required) : An information sheet regarding concussions, their long-term and short-term effects, and permission to use the Impact Test will be provided by FCPS athletic training department. The student-athlete and a parent/guardian shall read this material and sign the form, stating that they understand the danger of concussions and the treatment plan that will be followed by our athletic trainers. This signature on this document also indicates that you have read and understand the rules stated in this handbook. This form will be kept on file in the athletic training office.

3. Impact Testing : Impact testing will be required for all freshman and junior class athletes, all student-athletes new to interscholastic athletic programs, and all student-athletes who transfer to Fauquier County Public Schools.

4. Athletic Fees : Each student-athlete will be required to pay a fee of $60.00 for each high school team of which he/she is a member. The fee must be paid prior to the first official contest in order for the student to participate. Those students who have qualified for free/reduced lunch will be exempt from this fee.

Individual Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to represent any Fauquier County Public School in any VHSL-sponsored interscholastic contest, a student shall meet the following VHSL requirements:

1. 28A-1-1 Age Rule – The student shall not have reached the age of 19 on or before the first day of August of the school year in which he/she wishes to compete.

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2. 28A-2-1 Bona Fide Student Rule – The student shall be a regular bona fide student in good standing of the school which he/she represents.

3. 28A-3-1 Enrollment Rule – The student shall have been regularly enrolled in the school which he/she represents not later than the fifteenth school day of the semester.

4. 28A-4-1 Grade Rule – The student shall be enrolled in the last four years of high school.

5. 28A-5-1 Scholarship Rule – When a school offers four classes each semester (block scheduling), students must pass three of four classes to be eligible for the following semester. There is no yearly eligibility option since the block scheduling is on a “stand alone” semester grade basis.

6. 28A-6-1 Semester Rule – The student shall not have been enrolled in the last four years of high school for a period of more than eight consecutive semesters, beginning with the semester in which he/she was enrolled for the first time in the ninth grade. The eight consecutive semesters shall be counted continuously from that point, regardless of whether he/she remains continuously enrolled in school.

7. 28A-7-1 Transfer Rule – The student shall not have enrolled in one high school and subsequently transferred to and enrolled in another high school without a corresponding change in the residence of his/her parents, parent, or guardian. Home instruction does not constitute enrollment in a public school.

8. 28A-7-3 (7) – Interpretations (Residency) – Residence is defined as the domicile of an individual, meaning that the individual lives in a locality with the intent to make it a fixed and permanent home. Domicile requires more than bodily presence as an inhabitant in a given place; it requires bodily presence and an intention to make such a place a fixed and permanent home. Other indicia of domicile include automobile registration, voter registration and the reporting of a mailing address change to the appropriate agencies, such as the post office, utility companies, creditors and employers. Under no circumstances can a family or student participant have two residences for eligibility purposes. It is the obligation of the school to know the complete residence status of each student participant and to see that all comply with these requirements. Any change in residence must be bona fide. Determination of what constitutes a bona fide change of residence depends upon the facts of each case, but in order for a change of residence to be considered bona fide at least the following facts must exist: (1) The original residence must be abandoned as a residence; that is sold, rented or disposed of as a residence and must not be used as a residence by any member of the family; (2) the entire family must make the change and take with them the household goods and furniture appropriate to the circumstances, and (3) the change must be made with the intent that it is permanent.

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ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT

General Conduct of Athletes

The Fauquier County Public Schools athletic department, the coaching staff, school administration and the community believe strongly that high standards of conduct, sportsmanship and citizenship are essential in maintaining a sound program of athletics. A firm and fair policy of enforcement is necessary to uphold the regulations and standards of the Fauquier County Public Schools athletic department. Each student-athlete must remember that participating and competing for Fauquier County Public Schools is a privilege, not a right. Student-athletes represent their high school and Fauquier County, and therefore, they are expected to portray themselves, their team, and their high school in a positive manner at all times. All Fauquier County Public Schools athletic teams are governed by and are required to abide by the rules of the Virginia High School League (VHSL), the Fauquier County Public Schools Code of Student Conduct and the rules and regulations outlined in this handbook. Violations of VHSL rules, FCPS policies, and the Code of Student Conduct and school rules may result in removal from the team or activity and disciplinary consequences as outlined in the Code of Student Conduct.

Prohibited Behaviors

The following prohibited behaviors are not meant to be all inclusive, but represent the primary types of behavior that may be of concern in FCPS athletic programs.

Absences

Four (4) unexcused absences from the team as a result of any of the listed prohibited behaviors will result in removal from the team.

Harassment

Harassment is generally defined as conduct which annoys, threatens, intimidates, alarms, or puts a person in fear of his/her safety. Harassment is unwanted, unwelcomed and uninvited behavior that demeans, threatens or offends the victim and results in a hostile environment for the victim. Harassing behavior includes, but is not limited to, epithets, derogatory comments or slurs and lewd propositions, assault, impeding or blocking movement, offensive touching or any physical interference with normal work or movement, and visual insults, such as derogatory posters, photos or cartoons.

Hazing

Hazing means to recklessly or intentionally endanger the health or safety of a student or to inflict bodily injury on a student in connection with or for the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition of the continued membership in a club, organization, association, fraternity, sorority, or student body regardless of whether the student so endangered or injured participates voluntarily in the relevant activity. Section 18.2-56 of the Code of Virginia prohibits hazing and imposes a Class 1 misdemeanor penalty for anyone found guilty of this violation.

Hazing can take many forms. For example:

1. Subtle Hazing includes initiations and the like which manipulate, coerce, or in other respects seek to deny the rights of individuals. Typically, this involves psychological pressures on an individual to agree to certain action in

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order to be more fully accepted, whether or not performance of this action has any bearing on the actual membership status.

2. Harassment Hazing involves actions which cause mental anguish or physical discomfort. Typically, this involves persistent physical or verbal actions which threaten, irritate, demean, or inflict pain.

3. Hazardous Hazing includes action which endangers life or mental health, which have the potential of causing bodily injury or which subjects a person to severe mental stress.

All student-athletes shall understand the definition of hazing, refrain from involvement in hazing, and report any incidents to the coach and athletic department.

Physical Violence/Aggression

Fighting (physical confrontation between two or more persons) and assault and battery (offensive and intentional touching or striking of an individual against his or her will) are prohibited by the Code of Student Conduct. Participation in violent or aggressive behavior may result in removal from a team or activity and consequences as described in the Code of Student Conduct.

Social Media

Using social media (e.g., Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, etc.) in an inappropriate manner can have negative consequences, especially if unkind words or threats are used with intent to hurt others. Sections 18.2069, 18.2-152.7, and 18.2-152.7:1 of the Code of Virginia directly relate to social media.

Fauquier County Public Schools recognizes and supports its student-athletes’ rights to freedom of speech, expression, and association, including the use of social networks as outlined in FCPS Policy 7-4.3 (Student Publications/Freedom of Expression.) Any online postings must be consistent with federal and state laws, as well as team, school, school division and Fauquier County rules and regulations. Specifically prohibited behaviors include, but are not limited to:

Sexually explicit, profane, lewd, indecent, illegal, or defamatory language/actions Derogatory language regarding school personnel or other students Comments designed to harass or bully students and/or school personnel Nude, sexually-oriented, or indecent photos, images or altered pictures

Also prohibited are all violations of the Acceptable Use Policy which each student is required to agree to and sign each school year.

Substance Abuse

Use, possession of, or distribution of illegal substances, controlled substances or alcohol are prohibited by law and the Code of Student Conduct.

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EXPECTATIONS, RULES AND RESPONSIBILITIES GOVERNING SCHOOL ATHLETICS

STUDENTS

Participation

Athletes may participate in only one school-sponsored sport per season.

Equipment

School equipment issued to the student-athlete by the school is his/her responsibility. He/she is expected to keep it clean and in good condition. Loss of any equipment is the athlete’s financial obligation.

Attendance in School

The student-athlete must be present for the school day in order to participate in games and practice. Exceptions may be granted by the coach, athletic director or principal if the request is made prior to the game or practice. Failure to receive approval may result in disciplinary action.

Games and Practice Attendance

Athletes must be present for all practices, school competitive events, regular season, post-season, and make-up games. Exceptions are not made for vacations, Saturdays, or other sports activities.

There are no consequences for athletes who miss a practice or game to attend school-sponsored trips or other required academic activities. For optional trips, the coach may determine if a consequence is appropriate.

For all other missed games or practices, the consequence is at the discretion of the coach. In such cases, consequences may include dismissal from the team.

Individual Coach’s Rule

Coaches may establish additional rules and regulations with the approval of the athletic director and principal for their respective sports. These rules pertaining to a particular sport must be given by the coach in writing to all team members and explained fully before the start of the season. Penalties for violation of team rules will also be in writing and shall be administered by the coach.

Travel for Athletic Events

Student-athletes must use school-provided transportation to athletic events. At no time will student-athletes be transported to or from athletic events in private cars unless prior arrangements have been made. If the coach does not have a rule that the student-athlete must ride the provided transportation back from the event, he/she may ride home with a parent or guardian. The parent/guardian must sign the student-athlete out with a coach. Written documentation with prior approval is required for a student-athlete to be transported from away games by someone other than the parent/guardian.

Reporting an Injury

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All injuries which occur while participating in athletics must be reported by the student-athlete to the athletic trainer and coach. If the injury requires medical attention by a physician or treatment center, an injury report must be completed by the athletic trainer or coach. Copies of the injury report will be given to the school nurse and the principal. Once a physician treats a student-athlete, the student-athlete must obtain the physician’s written permission to return to the activity.

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Lettering Requirements

1. Lettering requirements will be established and communicated by each varsity coach. Lower level (junior varsity, freshman) teams will receive certificates of participation.

2. An athlete who moves from one level of competition to another will letter at the level of highest competition, provided the athlete has met lettering requirements.

3. Any athlete who was a starter or played regularly and was thereafter injured may be awarded a letter, if in the coach’s judgment he/she would have met lettering requirements.

4. The athlete must complete the season in good standing with the school and coach.

5. Athletes are required to attend all practices unless there is an excused absence approved by the coach.

6. Athletes should realize that they are representing Fauquier County Public Schools and their community and shall meet the conduct requirements outlined in this handbook.

Sportsmanship

Those who earn the privilege to participate in athletics are expected to conduct themselves in an ethical, fair and respectful manner. Student-athletes are expected to do the best they can to excel while exhibiting self-control and respectful behavior toward their team mates, competitors and community. Student-athletes are expected to be respectful of officials and accept their decisions.

FANS AND SPECTATORS

Fans and spectators are expected to:

1. Stand and remove headgear during the National Anthem.

2. Cheer for their team rather than against their opponents.

3. Maintain self-control and conduct themselves as responsible citizens.

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4. Show respect for opponents in every way possible.

5. Always be positive in support of their team.

6. Recognize and acknowledge good performances made by both teams.

7. Respect officials and accept their decisions.

8. Be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.

9. Leave the site of an activity, including the parking lot, as soon as possible after the activity is completed.

Spectators may be asked to leave the contest, or may be barred from future contests, if these expectations are not met.

PARENTS

Parent-Coach Relationship

The critical factor in determining whether your student-athlete has a positive experience is the quality of his/her adult leaders and role models, including parent(s) and coaches. By establishing an understanding of each role, we are better able to accept the actions of each other and provide a greater benefit to our student-athletes. Parents, when your student-athlete becomes involved in our program, you have the right to understand what expectations will be placed on your student-athlete. This begins with clear communications from the coach of your program.

Communications to Expect from your Student-Athlete’s Coach

1. Team requirements, special equipment, strength and conditioning programs2. Procedure if your student-athlete is injured during participation3. Game/practices schedule and updates4. Team rules, guidelines and consequences for infractions5. Team selection process

Communication Coaches Expect from Parents

1. Any concerns related to your student-athlete’s participation on the team should be expressed directly to the coach. (Please follow the procedure outlined below.)

2. Advance notification of any schedule conflicts3. Prompt notification in the event of illness or injury and advance notification of scheduled medical procedures

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It is the goal of coaches, school staff and parents that each student-athlete has richly rewarding experiences participating in school athletics. It is important to understand that there will be disappointments as well as successes. When parents have concerns, discussion with the coach is encouraged. It is the first and most integral step to understanding, resolution, and a positive outcome.

It may be difficult to accept that your student-athlete is not playing as much as you expect. Coaches are professionals. They make decisions based on what they believe to be the best for the team and for all student-athletes involved. Parents should understand that the decision on playing time, team strategy and play selection are at the sole discretion of the head coach and his staff.

Examples of Concerns to Discuss with the Coaching Staff

1. Treatment of your student-athlete2. Ways to help your student-athlete improve3. Concerns about your student-athlete’s behavior

Procedures for Communicating with Your Student-Athlete’s Coach

1. Call or e-mail the coach to set up an appointment.2. If the coach cannot be reached, call or e-mail the athletic director. He/she will set up the meeting for you and

the coach.3. Please do not confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These are often emotional times for both

the parent and the coach and meetings of this nature rarely promote a positive resolution. Because competition often evokes strong emotions, please use the “24-hour rule” and wait 24 hours before meeting with the coach to ensure a positive and productive conversation.

If the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory resolution:

1. Call or e-mail the athletic director and set up an appointment to discuss the situation.2. If necessary, at this meeting the appropriate next step will be determined.

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FAUQUIER HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Bryan Grimley, ATC, VATL 705 Waterloo Road

Head Athletic Trainer Warrenton, VA 20186

(W) 540-422-7300 EXT 1157

© 540-270-2710

(F) 540-422-7325

bgrimley@fcps1.org

6/13/19

Dear Parents/Guardians,

My name is Bryan Grimley and I am the Athletic Trainer here at Fauquier High School. This letter will explain my role as an athletic trainer as well as discuss some general information regarding the Sports Medicine Program at Fauquier High School.

As the Athletic Trainer, my job is to maintain a safe and healthy environment for all student-athletes at FHS. My job involves evaluating and treating athletic injuries and illnesses. I maintain a current national certification and a license to practice Athletic Training in the state of Virginia. Athletic Trainers are extensively trained and highly skilled healthcare providers that are integral in maintaining the safe operation of high school athletics.

Student-athletes at FHS are issued inspected and certified equipment and are also instructed in proper technique of play by qualified coaches. However, injuries still occur while participating in high school athletics. If your child is injured during a practice or game, I will evaluate the injury and provide proper and appropriate treatment. If I believe a physician should evaluate the injury, I will inform you immediately. However, you know your child best; if you feel that a doctor should evaluate your child, please take them to be seen. Please retain a copy of any paperwork/care instructions given to you by the Health Care Provider to submit to me for my records. Please ensure that the provider specifies a specific diagnosis and exact return to play/participation criteria. In the event of a medical emergency, we will have your child transported to the nearest hospital via EMS and contact you as soon as possible to make you aware of the situation.

Please note, once a student-athlete is seen by a physician or medical provider other than myself, by law, written documentation of medical release is required by the treating provider before the athlete will be permitted to return to play. There are no exceptions to this law. Also, please note, that by law, I am required to follow any and all prescribed treatment plans and return to play protocols issued to you by the treating provider. I cannot not alter the treatment/return to play protocol without written permission from the treating provider. For example, if your child is seen in the Emergency Room for an ankle sprain and the treating provider states the athlete is to remain out of athletics for two weeks and follow-up with the primary care physician before returning to play, I legally cannot allow that athlete to return to play until that criteria is met or until a new care plan is issued by the treating provider. There are no exceptions regarding this

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matter, even if the child is physically capable of returning to play prior to the date indicated by the note provided by the treating provider.

After an injury, I will work with your child to rehabilitate him/her for return to play as quickly and as safely as possible. If your child sees a medical provider other than me, I will follow the care plan prescribed by the treating medical provider. I will also work with our Strength Coach for supervised rehabilitation in the weight room so that the injured student-athlete may recover range of motion, strength, agility and sport-specific function prior to return to play. Again, if your child is seen by a medical provider other than myself, please retain a copy of the specific diagnosis, a specific return to play protocol and any other instructions, guidelines or precautions. This documentation should be issued to me as soon as possible following a medical provider visit.

Every student-athlete must have a current VHSL physical on file before they may participate in any athletic team activities at Fauquier High School; this is inclusive of tryouts. There are no exception to this law. The physical provides important health-related information about your child and also provides FHS athletics staff with emergency contact information and a consent to treat section in the event of an emergency. Per VHSL policy, a current physical means that the exam is dated after May 1st of the current year. This physical is good for the entirety of the school year and expires on June 30th of the year following its being signed. You can download a copy of the VHSL physical from online at www.vhsl.org or you can pick one up on the door of the Athletic Training Room located in the 700 Wing next to the weight room.

In addition, each student-athlete must provide the Acknowledgement of Receipt and Understanding of FCPS Concussion Policy (this form is the last page of this packet). This form must be signed by the student-athlete and by the parent/guardian and submitted to the athletic trainer or coach prior to the first contest.

If your child has a chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes or a severe food/sting/etc. allergy and is required to carry medication with them, it is recommended that you provide an additional supply of the prescribed medication to be kept securely with the Athletic Trainer in the event it is needed during a practice or game. All prescription and over-the-counter medications must be properly documented in the FHS Clinic before they can be self-carried by the student-athlete or given to the Athletic Trainer. Once proper documentation is on file, I will keep the student-athlete’s medication and other medical supplies/equipment secure and with me at all times. I will also instruct your student-athlete’s coach how to supply and use any medications etc., in the event I am not readily available to provide them in an emergency situation.

To prevent the contraction and spread of skin infections such as bacterial staph infections, MRSA, VRE, fungal infections or any other contagious skin conditions I recommend the following:

1) Each athlete should bring a towel and soap for a shower after every practice/game2) Each athlete should bring home all clothing worn that day to be washed3) Each athlete should bring a clean, dry set of clothes to change into between practices and for before going

home4) All athletes should report any possible skin conditions to the Athletic Trainer as soon as possible5) All athletes should have, cuts, scrapes, bug bites, etc. evaluated by the Athletic Trainer each day

Here are some general recommendations for a safe and healthy season:

1) Make sure your student-athlete stays hydrated (especially during the late summer, early fall seasons and late spring seasons)

2) Make sure your student-athlete eats properly. Each athlete should eat a balanced breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is also recommended that athletes have an appropriate light snack for before practices, such a small sandwich, nuts or fresh fruit.

3) Make sure your student-athlete gets plenty of rest

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4) No sugary or caffeinated drinks (sodas, coffee drinks, sweet tea, Hi-C, Capri Sun, etc.)5) Absolutely no energy drinks should be consumed. Energy drinks have been proven to cause fatal heart

arrhythmias and can also cause severe dehydration. Energy drinks include any highly caffeinated beverages such as Mountain Dew, Redbull, Monster, 5-Hour Energy

6) An athlete with flu-like symptoms (vomiting, fever of 100.0 or above, chills, diarrhea etc. should be kept home and seen by a primary care provider)

7) Report any and all injuries and illness to the Athletic Trainer as soon as possible8) Retain copies of any physician notes/orders and turn in a copy to the Athletic Trainer as soon as possible

(required)

I look forward to a safe and healthy season. Please feel free to contact me at any time should you have any questions or concerns. Good luck and GO FALCONS!

Respectfully,

Bryan Grimley, ATC, VATLBryan Grimley, ATC, VATL

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FAUQUIER HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETICS

Bryan Grimley, ATC, VATL Mark Ott

Head Athletic Trainer Activities Director

bgrimley@fcps1.org mott@fcps1.org

Kraig Kelican

Principal

kkelican@fcps1.org

FAUQUIER HIGH SCHOOL CONCUSSION POLICY AND PROCEDURES

Purpose: The Fauquier High School Athletic Department seeks to comply fully with the Fauquier County School Board Concussion Policy and Regulations. The purpose of the School Board concussion policy is to ensure that student-athletes who sustain concussions are properly diagnosed, given adequate time to heal, and are comprehensively supported until they are sign and symptom free.

Concussion: A concussion is a brain injury that is characterized by an onset of impairment of cognitive and/or physical functioning, and is caused by a blow to the head, face, or neck, or a blow to the body that causes a sudden jarring of the head (i.e., a helmet to the head or being knocked to the ground). A concussion can occur without loss of consciousness. Symptoms of a concussion can develop immediately, or over several hours or even days following a head injury. Concussions can often be difficult to diagnose and failing to recognize the signs and symptoms in a timely fashion can have dire consequences.

Evaluation Process: Any athlete who is suspected of having a head injury by the athletic trainer, coach, game official or any other school official will immediately be withdrawn from any form of participation and be required to be evaluated by an appropriate health care provider. In most cases, the athletic trainer will be the first health care provider to evaluate the athlete. If no head injury is suspected, the athlete may be permitted to return to play, however, this is at the discretion of the athletic trainer. If a head injury is suspected, a thorough and comprehensive evaluation of the athlete will take place by the athletic trainer. The athletic trainer will use a variety of widely accepted evaluation tests and techniques including the IMPACT test. The athletic trainer will make contact with the parents and make suggestions regarding initial treatment and referral for further evaluation, if necessary, in an emergency department, evaluation by a general practitioner, evaluation by a specialist etc.

Referral: If a student athlete is suspected of having a head injury or concussion by the Athletic Trainer, the student-athlete will be referred to their Primary Care Provider (PCP). A PCP is the Health Care Provider whom your child sees for routine well-visits. The PCP will perform a thorough evaluation of the student-athlete and provide you with general

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care instructions and Return to Learn and Return to Play criteria. It is mandatory that a copy of the PCP’s note be given to the Athletic Trainer as soon as possible following the visit.

IMPACT Test: If a student athlete sustains a concussion, an IMPACT test will be administered. Ideally, this test will be given 24-72 hours after the injury occurs, or as directed by the PCP. When the IMPACT test is administered varies between PCP’s. The IMPACT test will be administered according to the orders of the PCP your child sees. The results of this test will be compared to the student’s baseline test. The patient’s PCP will sometimes request that a an additional IMPACT test be given within 24 hours of being completely asymptomatic of a concussion. The results of any of the aforementioned tests will be given to the patient’s PCP for review. The IMPACT test is an important evaluation tool and can assist medical professionals in deciding an athlete’s readiness to Return to Learn and Return to Play.

Return To Learn: It is important to note that a concussion can be exacerbated by classroom/academic/cognitive activities in the same way that physical activity can exacerbate a concussion. This is why it is mandatory that a patient suspected of having a concussion be evaluated by their PCP. Only a PCP can order classroom modifications, such as reduced school time, reduced work load, extra time for assignments etc. This includes restricting the patient from participation in Physical Education (PE/GYM). Any modifications to school/classroom activity must be properly documented by the PCP and a written copy of any such orders must be turned into the Athletic Trainer and School Nurse as soon as possible. NOTE: The Athletic Trainer cannot prescribe academic modifications, excuse absences from school, or restrict PE/GYM activity. Only the PCP can prescribe these modifications.

Return To Play: The following criteria must be met before an athlete may return to full participation in athletics at Fauquier High School:

- The athlete must be completely free of signs and symptoms of a concussion- The athlete must be completely free of any academic modifications

o The athlete is attending full school dayso There is no limit/restrictions to the athlete’s workload etc.o The athlete is participating fully in PE/Gym classes (if currently enrolled)

- Written documentation provided by the patient’s PCP must be on file with the Athletic Trainer stating that the patient is cleared to begin a Return to Play progression

- The student must complete an IMPACT test that is within their baseline and has been viewed by the PCP- The student must complete a Program of Progressive Exertion

o Day 1:No exertional activity until asymptomatic for 24 hourso Day 2: Light aerobic exercise such as walking or stationary bike, etc. No resistance training.o Day 3: Sport specific exercise such as skating, running, etc. Progressive addition of resistance

training may begin.o Day 4:Non-contact training/skill drills.o Day 5: Full contact training in practice setting.o Day 6: Return to competition.

- The student must have a written clearance from the athletic trainer for full return to participation

Special Note: Per FCPS School Board Policy, the Athletic Trainer and Administration of Fauquier High School reserve the right to continue to withhold a student athlete from participation if it is suspected that the athlete is not completely healed. The Athletic Trainer reserves the right to refer the athlete back to the examining physician for further evaluation at any time.

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FAUQUIER HIGH SCHOOL

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Bryan Grimley, ATC, VATL 705 Waterloo Road

Head Athletic Trainer Warrenton, VA 20186

(W) 540-428-2153

(WC) 540-428-9007

© 540-270-2710

(F) 540-347-6118

bgrimley@fcps1.org

Dear Parents,

Continuing this school year, 2019-2020, all Fauquier County high school student athletes must complete an IMPACT test. This is a requirement of the Fauquier County Public Schools policy on concussions.

IMPACT, or Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing, is a specialized computer test that provides feedback for medical professionals that can assist them in determining an athlete’s readiness to return to play following a concussion. The test is first given as a “baseline” test, meaning that every athlete will take an IMPACT test to have on file for us to compare to should they sustain a concussion. This will allow us to essentially have a “before and after” picture of your son’s or daughter’s status following a concussion. The test results will be shared with your child’s physician or medical professional that he or she sees.

IMPACT testing provides specific information to medical professionals that can help determine the severity of a concussion and also assist in determining an athlete’s readiness to return to school and to return to full competition. Some of the specific information obtained from an IMPACT test includes:

-Full medical history (provided by athlete)

-A detailed account of the specific incident

-Current signs and symptoms

-Immediate and delayed memory testing

-Reaction time testing

IMPACT is first given as a baseline and then repeated as a baseline every two years. This means each athlete will be tested as a Freshman and again as Junior. In addition, students will be tested as many as three to five times following a concussion. Continuing this school year, we will conduct IMPACT testing on a regular two-year cycle. Freshmen, Juniors, and any new student athletes will be administered a baseline test.

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The results of an IMPACT test are stored on a secure electronic server that is only accessible by the School Health Coordinator and myself. IMPACT testing results will not be shared with coaches, teachers, or other staff without your permission.

The IMPACT test will be administered in school by myself, as well as by other coaches who have been trained to administer the test. The testing process takes approximately 30-45 minutes and will be completed in computer labs here at FHS. All IMPACT testing for fall sport athletes will be conducted the first week of practice. Testing for winter and spring athletes will begin this fall. Dates will be posted for athletes to sign up.

The IMPACT test is not a test of any specific skill or knowledge and is not a test that your child will need to prepare or study for. The test is available in multiple languages. If your child has had a concussion before, that does not matter. It will be noted in the patient history that a previous concussion has occurred. Please go over your child’s medical history with them prior to taking the test so that they can thoroughly complete the patient medical history.

For more information about IMPACT testing, you can visit the website below:

http://impacttest.com

In addition, the FCPS Policy and Regulations on Concussions (7-4.2) can be found at the website below:

http://www.fcps1.org/education/components/scrapbook/default.php?sectiondetailid=49486&

Please also feel free to contact me at any time regarding any questions you may have about IMPACT testing or concussions. Thank you for your time.

Sincerely,

Bryan Grimley, ATC, VATL

Head Athletic Trainer

Fauquier High School

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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCUSSION?

If your child has experienced a bump or blow to the head during a game or practice, look for any of the following signs of a concussion:

SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETE:

• Headache or “pressure” in head • Nausea or vomiting • Balance problems or dizziness • Double or blurry vision • Sensitivity to light • Sensitivity to noise • Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy • Concentration or memory problems • Confusion

• Just not “feeling right” or is “feeling down”

SIGNS OBSERVED BY PARENTS/ GUARDIANS:

• Appears dazed or stunned • Is confused about assignment or position • Forgets an instruction • Is unsure of game, score, or opponent • Moves clumsily • Answers questions slowly

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away. notice the symptoms yourself, seek medical attention right your child reports any symptoms of concussion, or if you appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury. If concussion can show up right after the injury or may not You can’t see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of

or blow to the head can be serious. “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump are caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even a “ding,” A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. Concussions

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?

FOR PARENTS CONCUSSION FACT SHEET

• Loses consciousness (even briefly) • Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes DANGER SIGNS

Be alert for symptoms that worsen over time. Your child or teen should be seen in an emergency department right away if s/he has:

• One pupil (the black part in the middle of the eye) larger than the other • Drowsiness or cannot be awakened • A headache that gets worse and does not go away • Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination • Repeated vomiting or nausea • Slurred speech • Convulsions or seizures • Difficulty recognizing people or places • Increasing confusion, restlessness, or agitation • Unusual behavior • Loss of consciousness (even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously)

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR CHILD HAS A CONCUSSION?

1. SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION RIGHT AWAY A health care professional will be able to decide how serious the concussion is and when it is safe for your child to return to regular activities, including sports.

2. KEEP YOUR CHILD OUT OF PLAY. Concussions take time to heal. Don’t let your child return to play the day of the injury and until a health care professional says it’s OK. Children who return to play too soon - while the brain is still healing - risk a greater chance of having a second concussion. Repeat or later concussions can be very serious. They can cause permanent brain damage, affecting your child for a lifetime.

3. TELL YOUR CHILD’S COACH ABOUT ANY PREVIOUS CONCUSSION. Coaches should know if your child had a previous concussion. Your child’s coach may not know about a concussion your child received in another sport or activity unless you tell the coach.

HOW CAN YOU HELP YOUR CHILD PREVENT A CONCUSSION OR OTHER SERIOUS BRAIN INJURY?

21National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE).

Content Source: CDC’s Heads Up Program. Created through a grant to the CDC Foundation from the

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• Ensure that they follow their coach’s rules for safety and the rules of the sport. • Encourage them to practice good sportsmanship at all times. • Make sure they wear the right protective equipment for their activity. Protective equipment should fit properly

and be well maintained. • Wearing a helmet is a must to reduce the risk of a serious brain injury or skull fracture. • However, helmets are not designed to prevent concussions. There is no “concussion-proof” helmet. So, even with

a helmet, it is important for kids and teens to avoid hits to the head.

HOW CAN I HELP MY CHILD RETURN TO SCHOOL SAFELY AFTER A CONCUSSION?

Children and teens who return to school after a concussion may need to:

• Take rest breaks as needed • Spend fewer hours at school • Be given more time to take tests or complete assignments • Receive help with schoolwork • Reduce time spent reading, writing, or on the computer

Talk with your child’s teachers, school nurse, coach, speech-language pathologist, or counselor about your child’s concussion and symptoms. As your child’s symptoms decrease, the extra help or support can be removed gradually.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT AND UNDERSTANDINGOF FAUQUIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS CONCUSSION POLICY, REGULATIONS, AND ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

Please review the Fauquier County Athletic Handbook, FCPS policy 7-4.2 (Interscholastic Athletics / Concussions), and the accompanying regulations, protocols, and fact sheets. Once you have reviewed and understand the material, please complete this page and return to the Athletic Trainer. This acknowledgement form must be completed and on file in the Athletic Training Room prior to participation in any High School athletic event. This includes tryouts.

Student Athlete

I, , have received, reviewed, and understand the Fauquier High School Concussion Policy and Regulations as well as the Fauquier County Athletic Handbook.

Student Athlete PRINTED Name:

Intended Sports (Please list all the sports you intend to play this year):

Student Athlete Signature:

Date:

Student Athlete’s Parent/Guardian

I, , have received, reviewed, and understand the Fauquier High School Concussion Policy and Regulations as well as the Fauquier County Athletic Handbook.

Parent/Guardian Printed Name:

Relationship to Student Athlete:

Parent/Guardian Signature:

Date:

Internal Use Only

Date Received:

Corresponding Physical on File: YES NO

Athletic Trainer Signature: Date:

Comments:

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