NEW MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL · 2016-03-26 · Barlow, Stratord, and Weston. OFFERINGS New Milford High...

GREEN WAVE ATHLETICS

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NEW MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL

HOME OF THE GREEN WAVE

ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

2013-2014


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Revised 8/20/13

Table of Contents Mission Statement………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….1-2 Strategic Initiative Goals…………………………………………………………………………………………………………….3 Welcome……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………4 Commitment to Athletics…………………………………………………………………………………………………………..5 Documents for Participation…………………………………………………………………………………………………..6-9 Affiliations and Offerings………………………………………………………………………………………………………….10 Spectator Code of Behavior……………………………………………………………………………………………………..11 Student-Athlete Commitment………………………………………………………………………………………………….12 Student-Athlete Expectations, Bullying and Hazing Policy, Captain’s Practice……………………..12-13 Eligibility Guidelines………………………………..………..………………..……………………………………………………14 CIAC Transfer Rule…………………………………………………………………………………………...........................15 Transportation……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………16-18 Insurance Coverage and Injuries………………………………………………………………………………………………19 Facility and Equipment Use/Misuse…………………………………………………………………………………………20 Disciplinary Actions from Violations Missed Games/Practices………………………………………………….21 Coaches and Teams……………………………………………………………………………………………………………22-24 NCAA Eligibility Requirements Compliance……………………………………………………………………………..25 Student and Parent Handbook Sign off…………………………………………………………………………………..26


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Green Wave Athletics Mission Statement

The mission of the New Milford High School Athletic Department is to provide, within its

context of resources, an environment that supports the educational objectives, academic

progress and general welfare of student-athletes allowing them to compete at levels of

excellence. Our department fosters an inclusive environment that nurtures intellectual growth,

physical development and social interaction. We strive to develop student-athletes with values

reflecting the richness and diversity of the New Milford community. The athletics experience is

an extension of the educational process whereby student-athletes acquire the skill,

characteristics and self-confidence that will enable them to reach their full potential. The

athletics program is committed to assisting student-athletes to achieve their academic and

physical potential by learning to develop worthy goals for a meaningful life.

Strategic Initiative

Maintain a model interscholastic athletics program which provides life-transforming

educational experiences for its student-athletes, enhances life for the student body, and

positively engages the entire school community. Involvement in New Milford High School

Athletics is designed to develop guiding principles to encourage life-long learning and healthy

lifestyles through competition, sportsmanship and ethical conduct.

GOALS

The goal of the athletic program is to maximize, foster and maintain the educational experience

of every student-athlete in a culture which ensures a continued commitment to a high level of

achievement. The goals New Milford Athletic Department are:

Develop student-athletes who are committed to, and capable of, achievement in the

classroom; and who have the opportunity and commitment to successfully compete in

interscholastic athletics.

Examine and ensure the provision of academic support services to student-athletes.

Establish and foster channels of communication amongst families, coaches and teams to

develop effective support strategies.

Build school and community support of the athletic programs through outreach

programs in youth sports, coaching clinics, and athletic clinics as well as supporting

community initiatives and special events.


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Welcome

Dear Parents and/or Guardians,

It is with great pride and privilege that I welcome you to the New Milford High School Athletic Program. We are dedicated to creating multiple opportunities through competitive athletics to complement the physical, cognitive, and social growth and development of young men and women. We acknowledge that participation in extracurricular activities is a privilege that enriches and

enhances the lives of student-athletes, their families and the community. New Milford High

School is a community school and the student-athletes are considered to be integral members

of this community. Our primary goal is educational excellence. We view our coaches as teachers

and our playing field as an extension of the classroom. This handbook serves as our text, and in

it you will find information to help make our athletic program efficient and effective.

If you ever have questions or concerns regarding your son’s or daughter’s interscholastic

experience please feel free to speak to their coaches. If you have need for further assistance, I

am always available and my door is always open. I encourage you to take advantage of the

opportunities offered to your sons and daughters here at New Milford by remaining involved

with our athletic programs. GO GREEN WAVE!

Respectfully,

Keith R Lipinsky

Email: [email protected]

Office: 860-350-6647 ext. 1411


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Commitment to Athletics

New Milford High School is a diverse educational community. New Milford High School’s

primary purpose is to develop educated, responsible, capable and mature young men and

women for an ever-changing and challenging society. The Athletic Department works

cooperatively within the scope of academics to further enhance the high school experience

emphasizing behavioral values that include but are not limited to discipline, loyalty, confidence,

self-esteem, cooperation, and development of performance to allow student-athletes to

maximize their potential.

The Athletic Department conducts a program which is consistent with the mission of the New

Milford Public Schools and the high school. The New Milford Public Schools believes, supports

and understands the role and inherent values of competitive athletics and the effect athletics

have in promoting knowledge, growth, maturity and the attainment of moral and ethical

values. New Milford High School Athletics strives for excellence while maintaining a balance of

expectations to reflect a successful athletic program.

The entire New Milford community is supportive and aware of the benefits of interscholastic

athletics. The Board of Education, administration, instructional and non-instructional personnel,

the student body and the community at large generate a positive support network for the

athletic department.

New Milford has a long history of successful interscholastic competition. Participation in

Interscholastic competition is a privilege is not a right. If you are a student that desires to be a

part of the athletic program at New Milford High School, you must be willing to work hard,

learn, and make sacrifices that non-participants do not experience.


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Documents for Participation

Athletes should be aware of when a season starts. These dates are posted on the following websites:

www.newmilfordps.org

www.ciacsports.com

www.casciac.org The following items are necessary for a student to be eligible to try or participate with a team that does not cut athletes:

All students that choose to participate in a sport must submit a current physical. Example: A physical administered on October 1 is valid through October 1st of the next year. If your physical expires prior to the end of your season, you are ineligible until you receive your next physical. We recommend getting your physical in the summer to cover the athlete for the entire school year. We realize this is difficult due to insurance restriction, please bear in mind your physical date and try to plan accordingly.

All students and parents must read and sign the permission slip required for participation. It is important that the information is filled out accurately and submitted prior to the first practice date. In addition to this, the emergency contact form which is a part of the permission slip must also be completely filled out so the Athletic Department has the parent(s) and doctor(s) contact information on file in case of an emergency.

Students should bring appropriate, comfortable clothing for participation. Lockers will not be issued until final rosters are chosen. Therefore, it is important for athletes to monitor their valuables and personal belongings. Athletes are strongly encouraged to purchase an additional lock from the Physical Education Department.

All students should bring a water bottle for practices and games.


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Athletic Permission Slip and Sports Participation Health Record


ATHLETIC PERMISSION SLIP

Nurse’s Approval__________

Grade_______ ID#__________ Date of Birth_____________

Dear Parent:

___________________________has expressed his/her desire to become a candidate, and if

successful, a member of the New Milford High School ____________________________team.

We wish to remind you that all precautionary measures will be taken to safeguard our students

during practice sessions and game situations. The safety measures include, in part, proper

conditioning and exercise, the wearing of protective equipment demanded by the sport, and

instruction of skills and techniques by certified coaches. In all types of physical competition,

injuries might occur, even death. Fortunately in the majority of cases, these injuries are of a

comparatively minor nature.

Along with this permission slip, the student must be academically eligible, and have a current

physical on record with the school nurse. This allows the athlete to participate in sports for the

entire school year.

We also wish to remind you that the use of tobacco, drugs, alcohol, or any criminal act (such as

theft) could automatically call for a suspension of the athlete from the team for a minimum of

fourteen (14) calendar days, and a meeting with the athletic director. In addition, there are

consequences for an athlete missing games and/or practices due to vacations. Please check with

your coach before trying out with the team for these consequences.

By signing below, the parents/guardians and athlete acknowledge that they have read the

“ATHLETIC HANDBOOK” and understand its contents, and parents give permission for their

child to participate as a member of the New Milford High School Athletics

__________________________________ _______________________________

Parent/Guardian Signature Student Signature

(over please)


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EMERGENCY MEDICAL AUTHORIZATION

Student Name________________________

Address_____________________________

Telephone___________________________

PURPOSE: To enable parents and guardians to authorize the provision of emergency treatment

for athletes who become ill or injured while under school authority, when parents or guardians

cannot be reached.

PART I OR II MUST BE COMPLETED

PART I (TO GRANT CONSENT)

In the event reasonable attempts to contact me at one of these telephone numbers

_______________________ or ________________________ and another parent or guardian at

__________________ (phone number) have been unsuccessful, I hereby give my consent for (1)

the administration of treatment deemed necessary by Dr. ____________________ (preferred

physician) or Dr. ______________________ (preferred dentist), or, in the event the designated

preferred practitioner is not available, another licensed physician or dentist; and (2) the transfer

of the child to New Milford Hospital or any hospital reasonably accessible.

This authorization does not cover major surgery unless the medical opinions of two other

licensed physicians or dentists, concurring in the necessity for such surgery, are obtained prior to

the performance of such surgery.

Facts concerning the child’s medical history, including allergies, medications being taken, and

any physical impairments to which a physician or dentist should be alerted to are:

Date: ___________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian: _______________________________

Address: ________________________________________________

DO NOT COMPLETE PART II IF YOU COMPLETED PART 1

PART II (REFUSAL TO CONSENT)

I do not give my consent for emergency medical treatment of my child. In the event of illness or

injury requiring emergency treatment, I wish the school authorities to take no action or to:

______________________________________________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________

DATE: _______________________________________________________________________

Signature of Parent/Guardian: _____________________________________________________

Address: ______________________________________________________________________


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AFFLIATIONS

New Milford High School is a member of the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC) and the South West Conference (SWC). Both of these associations are governed by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFSHSA). The NFSHSA provides all rules for competition and creates the rule book for all sports sanctioned by all high schools in the country. States may implement rules that supercede Federation rules, but are not allowed to develop a lower standard of compliance. The SWC provides New Milford High School with a league schedule and is well known for competitive balance and excellence in all sports offered. New Milford contributes to this fine league in multiple capacities. Other full member schools are Bethel, Brookfield, Bunnell, Newtown, Masuk, New Fairfield, Oxford, Kolbe Cathedral, Lauralton Hall, Pomperaug, Joel Barlow, Stratord, and Weston.

OFFERINGS

New Milford High School, home of the Green Wave, offers 28 interscholastic programs. Our program is indicative of a “LL” classification school (LL is the largest classification, other being L, M, S). Some sports compete in the “L” classification on the state level. These classifications are based on our enrollment numbers and the number of schools participating in the sport statewide.

FALL—Field Hockey, Football, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer, Volleyball, Boys Cross Country, Girls Cross Country, Girls Swimming, Cheerleading, and Dance.

WINTER—Boys Basketball, Girls Basketball, Wrestling, Boys Indoor Track, Girls Indoor Track,

Gymnastics, Ice Hockey, Boys Swimming, Cheerleading and Dance.

SPRING—Baseball, Softball, Boys Outdoor Track and Field, Girls Outdoor Track and Field, Boys

Lacrosse, Girls Lacrosse, Boys Tennis, Girls Tennis, and Golf.


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Spectator Code of Behavior The CIAC and SWC, as well as New Milford High School, emphasize sportsmanship and appropriate behavior during practices and competitions, as fans of athletic and extracurricular events. The expectation is that students, especially student-athletes shall model behaviors that are respectful, polite and courteous. In an effort to share in common sportsmanlike behavior we ask our student-athletes, their families, and the school community to:

Respect decisions made by contest and school officials.

Refrain from taunting, booing, heckling and the use of inappropriate language.

Remember attending a contest is not a license to verbally abuse and assault others or to be generally offensive.

Obey all local and school regulations.

Be a fan, not a fanatic! Violations of the Code of Behavior may result in the removal from the event and exclusion from other extracurricular events. Repeated violations may also result in an athlete forfeiting his/her right to participate in a contest.

Student-athletes are perceived as role models and should behave accordingly!


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Student-Athlete Commitment

Today’s students have many opportunities and choices to make concerning their free time. When a student-athlete accepts a position on a New Milford High School team, our expectation is that the student-athlete is making a commitment to the program and is willing to make sacrifices necessary to insure the success of that team. If the athlete cannot embrace all the rules and expectations of that sport, or if the athlete feels that the rules are too demanding, he/she should not participate in the sport.

Student-Athlete Expectations

Student-athletes must understand that participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege. We hold student-athletes to the highest of standards; this must be understood when making the decision to be an interscholastic athlete. Team members are expected to make sacrifices and choices that non-participants do not have to make. As with all privileges, it is important to remember that the school and the athletic department reserve the right to revoke athletic privileges when a student-athlete fails to meet the expectations and/or violates rules and guidelines of the school, athletic department, or specific team rules. Students are expected to:

Demonstrate respect, honesty, integrity, responsibility and accountability.

Demonstrate the highest level of sportsmanship and fair play at all times, regardless of circumstances.

Maintain athletic and academic eligibility as it applies to the individual athlete. Student-athletes should apply themselves academically to reflect potential.

Comply with New Milford Board of Education, New Milford High School, and New Milford Athletic Department’s policies, guidelines, rules and expectations.

Exhibit appropriate conduct and behavior on the field and off, as well as while in season and during the off season.

Understand that the use of alcohol, substances, and tobacco (of any kind) is strictly prohibited at anytime, anywhere.

Be well-groomed and neatly attired when attending athletic functions. This includes but is not limited to road trips where uniforms are not worn to the contest, all school recognition and award ceremonies, and pep rallies.

Understand unexcused absences from practices are not permitted. Vacations and other out-of-school activities that are not considered academic are not valid reasons for missing practices or contests.

Students are required to participate in all courses during the day of an athletic contest including physical education. The exception is when an early dismissal is necessary for teams to arrive on time to opposing schools.

Attend all team meetings, practices, and games unless excused by the coach.


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Student Athletes Expectation for Attendance Student Athletes are expected to be in attendance for the full day honoring their academic requirements

a. Students are ineligible for athletic contests or practices if they miss more than 80% of the school day, with or without a note.

b. Athletes are allowed a combination of 3 tardies and/or early dismissals per season (still meeting the 80% requirement) with a note from parent or guardian. Student athletes that accrue more than three tardies/early dismissals jeopardize their opportunity to participate.

Student Personal Privacy

a) Student athletes are prohibited from using recording devices of any kind in bathrooms and locker room facilities. Athletes are required to adhere to this policy out of respect for personal privacy.

Captain’s Practice New Milford High School considers Captain’s Practice as an out-of-season violation supported by the CIAC rationale. Unsupervised practices are not permitted on school grounds.

Bullying and Hazing Policy

Hazing is defined as any activity that humiliates, degrades, abuses, or endangers a person’s physical or emotional health for the purpose of initiation or membership in an organization, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate. Any action considered to be harassing, bullying, hazing, taunting or humiliating will not be tolerated. All athletes are expected to be polite and courteous of others. This includes but is not limited to demeaning, racial or ethnic based comments or remarks or any required initiation. Coaches are expected to foster an awareness and tolerance of individuality and diversity. Consequences as a result of hazing or harassment will include suspension from game(s) and may result in the dismissal from the team, possible further disciplinary action from the administrative arm of the school, as well as legal penalties. The decision to dismiss the athlete from the team will be determined by the coaching staff and athletic director. Great consideration will be given to the team dynamic of positive coexistence between the involved parties.


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Eligibility Guidelines

Athletes must maintain eligibility in order to participate in interscholastic athletics. The New Milford Board of Education as well as the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Commission has established standards for eligibility. As of 2006 and after, the eight semester rule applies to all incoming freshmen (p. 143 CIAC Handbook 6.12).

Students must be enrolled in and passing 4 units of work to be academically eligible during the season. A unit is defined as a course that meets daily for full credit.

Incomplete grades do not count towards academic eligibility.

Students must have received credit towards graduation at the close of the school year in at least 4 units to be eligible for Fall sports.

A student that transfers to New Milford must have a legal change of address for immediate eligibility. Any student in grades 10, 11, or 12 that does not have a legal change of address will be subject to the CIAC Eligibility Rule (II C.)

A student may participate in any sport as long as they do not reach their 20th birthday during the season in which they are playing.

You may jeopardize your eligibility if you commit one of the following infractions: o If a student attempts to play a sport more than 3 seasons since their freshman

year. o If a student plays or practices with an outside team in the same sport while a

member of the school team after the first scheduled game of the season (Rule II E.). The exception to Rule II E shall be: participation in parent-child tournaments and caddy tournaments. For swimming, tennis, and gymnastics: Speak with Athletic Director about regulations.

o If a student plays under an assumed name on an outside team (Rule II F). o If a student receives personal or economic gain for participation in any CIAC

sport (Rule II F). Note: Marking period grades (not semester grades) are to be used in determining scholastic eligibility to participate in interscholastic athletics during any given marking period except for fall sports.

Important: Failures cannot be made up for eligibility purposes in any manner until the next marking period with the exception of summer school credits for fall sports. Important: Incompletes are not allowed to be considered as passing grades. The marking period is defined as the date grades are distributed.


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CIAC Transfer Rule

As a member of the CIAC, we are obligated to function under the auspices of the state commission. The CIAC has instituted a transfer rule believed to be fair and impartial. If you are a transfer student, you are required to complete the transfer form prior to the start of the season. If you are transferring to New Milford High School and you have not had a legal change of address, you must sit out at 50 % of your sport’s season. You may practice and scrimmage but are ineligible to play from the date of the first competition through the 50% mark of the season at the receiving school. Transfers are expected to attend all practices (and may participate) while they are ineligible. This rule does not apply if you transfer prior to participation of the 10th grade year. If you have not participated as a 10th grader at the sending school, you are eligible to participate immediately. The principal of the receiving school forwards the transfer form to the principal of the sending school to verify the reason for transfer. If it is decided that the student is transferring for athletic reasons only, the student would be required to sit out for a full year. There is an appeals process for all transfers. If the transfer student chooses to appeal the process, they must report to the athletic director. If the family is not satisfied with the position of the athletic director, they can request a meeting with the high school principal. If the family believes they have grounds for appeal after meeting with the building principal, they can formally appeal to the CIAC through the principal’s office.

The transfer rule and all CIAC rules and regulations are available online at

www.casciac.org.


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Transportation

The New Milford Board of Education provides transportation to and from all away contests. All athletes are required to use

this means of transportation. It is not encouraged, but when transportation home on the provided vehicle creates an undue burden on the family, the following process must be followed:

When traveling home with a parent or legal guardian, the athlete must present a note to the coach prior to the contest signed and dated by the parent/guardian. This allows coaches to make necessary arrangements when leaving the opposing school and eliminates surprises.

If the athlete is going to be traveling home with another adult that is not their legal parent/guardian, the athlete must complete the district’s travel release form. This form is available in the athletic director’s office or on the high school athletics website at www.newmilfordps.org/subsite/nhs/page/athletic-forms-369

No student-athlete is allowed to travel home with another student or anyone under the age of 21, even if the parent has provided a note.

Parents/Guardians need to understand that not all practices and/or contests take place on school property. When dealing with these sports (swimming, gymnastics, ice hockey and golf) parents accept the responsibility of providing transportation to and from practices, and in some cases, to and from games. The guidelines for transporting athletes in events that are off-site are determined by the coach of each sport and reviewed by the athletic department. All other sports are expected to comply with the Board of Education policy.


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NEW MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL DEPARTMENT OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS 388 Danbury Road, New Milford, CT 06776

Lance Pliego, Athletic Director (860) 350-6647 Fax (860) 210-2256 Greg Shugrue, Principal www.newmilfordps.org/nhs/

TRAVEL RELEASE

This is to certify that ______________________________________________________ has my permission to ride

(Student’s Name – Please Print)

to and from the _____________________________ athletic contest on ________________ at

______________________. (Sport) (Date)

(Location)

I certify that I am personally transporting the above named student or have arranged for transportation with an adult

(non-student) of my choosing for this student.

Name of adult other than

parent/guardian________________________________________________________________________________

The reason for not riding the bus is

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

_____________________________________________________________________________________________

(Reason must be sufficiently urgent to family needs to justify not riding the bus)

I understand that New Milford High School athletic rules require that students ride the bus to and from all athletic

events and a departure from this requirement will release the New Milford Board of Education from all liability for

any adverse results that may occur.

NOTE: All students participating in field trips, away games and other official, school-sponsored, group events for

which transportation is provided, are expected to travel to the event and return to school together, on school

transportation. All participants are to remain under the supervision of the teacher(s), coach(es), other school

official(s), or designated chaperone(s) at all times, until they return to school. When school transportation is

provided, participating students MUST ride it both ways; parents, chaperones, and others may not drive students to

or from the site of the event by private transportation. Exceptions to this rule may be allowed only with advance

written permission from the athletic director, who will grant exceptions only for emergencies, extreme hardships, or

other unusual, extenuating circumstances.

I agree to release the New Milford Board of Education and its employees and officers from all liability with

reference to the above stated transportation. I also understand that if these rules are not followed and I drive my

child, or he/she drives themselves, to an athletic contest, he/she will not be allowed to compete.

This form must be on file in the Athletic Office prior to the dismissal of school on the day of the contest.

_________________________________________________________ _________________________

Signature of Parent or Guardian Date

___________________________________________________________ _________________________

Signature of Athletic Director Date


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TRAVEL RULES TO LIVE BY 1. Bus Etiquette-- On the bus students should behave. Period. No hands out the windows, items thrown from the bus, or gestures made at other cars. The bus should be treated like a classroom and left the way it was found. Students should remain seated for travel. Cleaning your seats is an expectation not a nicety. Listen to the bus driver at all times and remember to thank them! Coaches should inspect the bus upon arrival and return to school for cleanliness. 2. Appearance-- We should not arrive to away games looking disheveled. Our teams should be in uniform or in travel clothes (at the coach's discretion). We should not be changing for games on sidelines or in view of the public. We should use proper facilities when we need to go to the bathroom. Students should ask coaches to help find suitable places (bathrooms/locker rooms) for any needs. After games these rules still apply! 3. At Away Facilities-- we should treat away locker rooms, bathrooms, gyms and playing fields as if they were our own. Our sidelines should look like we were never there when we leave. All bottles, wrappers and other forms of debris should be picked up... even if it "wasn't mine" as I so often hear kids say. 4. Opposing Players and Coaches-- We should avoid confrontation, taunting and any other form of unsportsmanlike play during the game. Captains (if allowed) and the coach are the only people who should address referees. Bad calls, much like bad plays, are going to happen. We must learn to play through adversity and keep moving forward. 5. Opposing Spectators-- There is never a proper moment for one of our players to address an opposing fan. Staring into the crowd, taunting, or any other communication with fans is simply low class. If a player feels something has crossed the line he/she should report it to the coach to be dealt with. 6. Winning and Losing-- We do both with respect for the game, our opponent, our school, our family and ourselves. Students should play hard and up to their potential. If they do, good things will happen.


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Insurance Coverage and Injuries

New Milford High School places the health and welfare of the athlete above all else. The New Milford Athletic Department provides immediate care and attempts to prevent injuries. The Board of Education has contracted with an agency of athletic training and rehabilitation services to provide a trainer during practices and contests. The trainer attempts to be available during practices and games, but has many conflicts based on the athletic schedule. That is why it is required for all coaches to be certified in First Aid and CPR and be trained to recognize and deal with concussions. The athletic trainer prepares athletes for practice and cares for injuries during practices and games. The athletic trainer does not provide ongoing care. The trainer is not a doctor or nurse. The athletic trainer is required to fill out injury reports on anyone that requires additional medical attention. Please make sure your son or daughter has completed the form if injured. It is important to know that if your son or daughter is injured at an away event the trainer does not attend, they are still required to report their injury to the trainer and have it documented at New Milford High School. If your son or daughter is injured during a practice or contest and your insurance does not cover the costs, please call the athletic office at 860-350-6647 ext. 1411 and request a supplemental insurance form. The school’s insurance can cover costs not covered by the primary insurance coverage, and usually will. The athletic director will give you the form with the appropriate information as well as a copy of the injury report to forward to the school’s insurance company. The parent is responsible for the completion and submission of the form. Any athlete that is under a doctor’s care for any injury, condition, or treatment of any nature must provide a written release from said doctor prior to being allowed to resume participation on any team. If an athlete is receiving treatment from a doctor, the trainer is not allowed to provide care unless there has been communication between the doctor providing treatment, and the athletic trainer.


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Facility and Equipment Use/Misuse

The New Milford Athletic Department through the approval of the Board of Education provides all necessary equipment and supplies. This equipment is provided as a privilege for athletes. Misuse and/or damage to the equipment or facilities will result in disciplinary action(s). Uniforms are provided through loan for most teams. The care of the uniforms is the responsibility of the athlete from the time it is issued until it is returned to the coach. Each athlete will be responsible for filling out a uniform receipt form upon receipt of school issued uniform. If lost, stolen, or damaged (outside of team use) the uniform is the responsibility of the athlete. Athletes that fail to turn in their uniform at the end of the season will be billed in the amount to replace the uniform. In several sports the athletes themselves purchase uniforms or parts of uniforms. If the uniform is purchased by the individual, it becomes his or her property at the end of the season. Our school colors are green and white. Black may be used for a base for shorts or pants/leggings, but green and white are the official colors of New Milford team uniforms, whether purchased by the school or individual students. Athletes are expected to return uniforms in a timely fashion for proper cleaning at season’s end. It is critical that student-athletes understand the restrictions of our athletic facility. Due to locker room limitations, locker rooms are for in-season athletic use only. Athletes that are out-of-season are not allowed to use the locker rooms at the conclusion of the school day. Fences have been utilized to secure athletic facilities. Student-athletes should not be jumping fences. Jumping a fence poses a risk to the individual. Athletes that jump fences will be warned and asked to use proper entrances. Continuous violations will jeopardize an athlete’s participation. The Athletic Training Room should be treated as a medical facility. No athlete should be reporting to the training room without the coach’s knowledge with the exception of emergencies. No more than 3 athletes may be treated at once, and treatment/prevention should not require more than 10 minutes in the room during any one visit. Athletes with chronic physical problems or in need of persistent care will be referred to an appropriate doctor by the school trainer.

Athletes that continue to misuse the locker room, athletic training room, fences or other facilities will be verbally warned, then subject to disciplinary action that may result in a game (s) suspension during their athletic season.


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Disciplinary Actions from Violations Our goal is to provide opportunities for young men and women to flourish in an athletic program. When an athlete makes a decision to violate a Board of Education, school, athletic department, or team rule, coaches and administrators must correct unwanted behavior with consequences. Our goal is to develop mature young adults who don’t compromise the principles and values of their teammates, team and school. In the unfortunate event that disciplinary action is required, the following process will occur:

Any school violation will be handled in accordance with the school behavior management system found in the student handbook on page 48.

Any disciplinary action that results in missed playing time will be discussed with the athletic director and the parent/guardian will be notified.

If the result of disciplinary action causes an athlete to miss practices or games, the athlete will be subject to the missed games/practices athletic policy (see below).

Athletes and parents have a right to appeal the consequences of unwanted behavior in writing to the athletic director.

Violations of misconduct or inappropriate conduct may be reported by the athlete him/herself, coach, teacher, administrator, police/security, or community member. When an accusation has been made, the coach and/or athletic director will inform the accused. Athletes that self-report and/or are forthright and honest when reporting will have their conduct taken into consideration. Any infraction of the code of conduct will jeopardize an athlete’s opportunity to participate. Repeat offenders may be removed from teams for a full season depending upon the severity of the violation. A disciplinary hearing may be requested by the parent/guardian to clarify actions. The meeting will be limited to the coach, a coach’s representative (coach may waive this requirement), the athlete, the athlete’s parents and the athletic director. The school reserves the right to implement a breathalyzer test at any and all events in accordance with the Board of Education policy.


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Missed Games/Practices

Unexcused absences are not permitted. An unexcused absence is anytime an athlete misses practice without communicating with the coach. Vacations and other out-of-school non-academic activities are unexcused absences.

Athletes are expected to be dedicated to team goals, including attendance, at all practices. This is a cornerstone of competitive athletic teams. Choosing to be on a team comes with the understanding that practicing is necessary for success.

Athletes that continue to miss practice put themselves at a competitive disadvantage, compromise the team concept, and risk injury from lack of proper preparation and conditioning.

Coaches reserve the right to allocate playing time based on an athlete’s dedication and commitment to practice.

If an athlete has an unexcused absence the day before a contest, they are ineligible for that contest.

If an athlete misses a game due to an unexcused reason, the athlete will miss the next scheduled contest.

If an athlete misses practices and/or contests due to disciplinary action, the same parameters will apply.

Many teams have independent rules that govern what is acceptable and not acceptable for a student with regards to missing a practice. It is up to the student-athlete to learn and adhere to these rules during their season.


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Coaches and Teams The coach has the right to establish team rules and expectations that exceed this handbook and the permission slip rules. The coach will articulate important team rules to athletes via a handout and/or list of rules. All teams will include the following rules to develop consistency throughout all athletic programs:

Athletes should be punctual for all team related activities.

Athletes will not be allowed to compete if they do not practice routinely.

Athletes will put forth a maximum effort in an attempt to improve.

Athletes will be respectful, polite, courteous, and kind to team personnel and teammates, school personnel, transportation services, and opposing schools.

Tryouts: will be conducted by all teams that cut athletes. Cutting in high school is a most difficult component to competitive athletics. Cuts will be made in programs that have limited participation, limited facilities, or when sheer numbers pose a safety risk. Tryouts will consist of three days of observation by the coaching staff for any athlete new to the program regardless of grade level. An athlete returning to the team from a previous year will be granted one to three days of tryouts at the coach’s discretion. Earning a Letter: Many teams are unique unto themselves. Therefore, it is up to the coach to determine what criteria will determine whether an athlete earns a varsity or sub-varsity letter. The coach will make the criteria known to athletes prior to the start of the competitive season. Parents and/or athletes that are uncertain about lettering criteria should speak with their coach before the conclusion of the season. Students who earn a varsity letter will receive tackle twill green NM letters. The second year of lettering will be marked by a sport specific pin. Each successive year of lettering will be marked by a gold bar. Captains shall receive a CAPT pin or a star. Sub-varsity participants will receive a certificate of participation Communication: Coaches should utilize traditional methods of communication such as meetings or phone calls, email as a means of communicating with athletes and parents. Coaches should have a phone tree that includes traditional land lines or parent and players cell phones for all athletes. Attendance: Attendance to school is required to be eligible to participate in contests and practices. Athletes who are not in attendance may not come to school for practices or contests. Students must be in attendance by 9:00 am in order to be eligible. Notes from parents should be written in extreme circumstances. An athlete will be excused no more than three times per season when they are not in attendance by 9:00 am with a parent’s note.


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Captains: Captains should reflect and model the values of New Milford High School’s athletic department. Being selected as captain is the highest honor New Milford High School can bestow upon an athlete. For this reason, captains are expected to lead by example without compromising athletic policies and guidelines. In order to be selected captain, the following must occur:

Any senior or potential junior who believes they deserve consideration for a captaincy must submit a one page essay, single spaced, indicating why they would be an excellent candidate to their coach.

Captains must be a unanimous selection by the coaching staff/coach.

Captain(s) must meet with the athletic director and head coach prior to the season. Coaches can create additional criteria, but must include the aforementioned criteria. Head coaches are accountable for their selections. As with any privilege, failure to uphold exemplary expectations may compromise an individual’s ability to maintain their captaincy. Chain of Command: When questions or concerns arise during the season, parents and/or athletes should communicate directly with the coach. The athlete should speak to the coach first. Should the concern remain unresolved, the parent, along with the athlete, should meet with the coach (the coach is allowed to have another member of his staff or a person of his choosing present). Should the issue continue to be unresolved, the athlete and/or parent should speak with the athletic director. If the parent is unhappy with the decision of the coach and athletic director, the parent and/or athlete may appeal to the building principal. Contacting a coach can be done by calling the daytime phone number or e-mailing the coach. Concerns a parent may discuss might include the treatment of the athlete, strategies to enable the athlete to improve, academic or behavioral concerns. It is not appropriate to question playing time, play calling, team strategy, or other athletes on the team. If a parent approaches the athletic director or principal without speaking to the coach, the parent will be asked to speak with the coach first. It is important to allow the player and coach the first opportunity to solve the problem prior to parental or administrative intervention. Awards: Student Athletes who participate in interscholastic sports are eligible for several state (CIAC & CHSCA), league (SWC), and school (NMHS) awards. Most of the awards presented by the athletic department are earned for participation in the sport. There are several special awards each year given for outstanding achievement in athletics.


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SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

Athletes are expected to reflect decency and integrity in communications linked to New Milford High School Athletic Teams. Students who engage in vulgar, profane, and disrespectful comments online via Social Media will be disciplined as they would if they were rude, vulgar and/or disrespectful in the presence of school administrators, teachers, and/or coaches. Parents and students should not engage in social conversations or banter with administration, coaches, other parents, or students on social media platforms. It is not recommended, or in most cases appropriate, for parents and students to “friend” coaches on Facebook. Students should not be using social media to cyberbully, taunt and harass students from New Milford High School or any other school. Cyberbullying, taunting and harassment will incur the same consequences as outlined in the New Milford High School Student Handbook. Teams may use social media for information purposes, such as a twitter feed or a Facebook fan page. Such uses may not include the opportunity for parent or student comments on tweets or posts. The use of pictures and videos on social media sites follow the same rules as photographing students outlined by the New Milford School Student Handbook. In the ever evolving world of social media, New Milford High School and Athletic Department reserve the right to review any new platforms.


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NCAA Eligibility Requirements

NCAA initial eligibility standards were developed in response to a disturbing number of college athletes who were not succeeding academically in college. Established by the President’s Academic Reform Movement of 1982, the overall goal of initial eligibility was to expand the focus beyond athletes to student-athletes. The NCAA recognized that the freshman year is especially challenging. In addition to new studies in a new environment, student athletes invest tremendous energy and time in intercollegiate athletics. Minimum academic requirements were instituted in 1986. These academic standards relate to athletes only. They have no bearing on college admission for the non-athlete. Extensive research revealed that the best predictor of academic preparedness and success is a combination of standardized achievement scores and grade point average in core courses. It was determined the core courses would be academic in nature and prepare the student for collegiate academic challenges. Before a student can participate in athletics his/her freshman year at a Division I or II school, a minimum academic requirement must be met in 16 core courses for Division I schools and 14 core courses for Division II schools. Please consult with your guidance counselor to make sure your son or daughter is current with requirements if they are interested in competing in athletics in college. Students should register with the Eligibility Center at the beginning of their junior year in high school. At the end of the student's junior year, a transcript, which includes six semesters of grades, should be sent to the Eligibility Center from the high school. Additionally, students should have their SAT or ACT scores forwarded directly to the Eligibility Center (by using code "9999") whenever they take the exam. There is a fee required to register with the clearing house. For additional information, you can access www.clearinghouse.net or www.ncaa.org. Compliance: New Milford High School athletes are expected to comply with the guidelines of the athletic department as a condition of being an athlete. This is one of the many sacrifices that an athlete must make for the privilege of representing the school. The Athletic department supports coaches in regards to ‘team rules’ and expectations. A coach’s decision to suspend an athlete due to violations of a coach’s rule will be fully supported by the school. Failure to comply with the guidelines set forth in this handbook may result in temporary or permanent suspension from teams. Violations will be evaluated and decided on an individual basis. If a suspension results, it will be after consultation and approval by the athletic director, and then notification of the parent/guardian. The coach will contact the parent/guardian as soon as a decision is reached. All decisions may be appealed to the athletic director. If a pattern of behavior is evident over time that includes multiple violations, an athlete may face permanent suspension from all athletic teams and privileges.


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Student/Parent Handbook Sign-off I, ______________________________ and my parent(s)/guardian(s), _____________________ Signature Signature have read the Athletic Handbook and understand the rules and procedures contained in this document. I also understand that at a pre-season student-athlete/parent meeting my coach may make sport-specific team rules. I will be provided a copy of those rules at that time. The New Milford High School Handbook, the Athletic Handbook and the sport-specific rules are designed to outline, define and explain the expectations I agree to by signing this document. It is my and my family’s intent to participate under these guidelines. I fully understand that failure to do so may result in disciplinary action up to possible removal from the sport team. I wish to represent my school, my town, my family and myself in a manner that is consistent with honor, sportsmanship, hard work and respect. I understand that if I have questions or concerns pertaining to my team I will approach my coach and work toward resolution. STUDENT SIGNATURE: ___________________________________ DATE: __________________ I have read the Athletic Handbook with my son/daughter and understand its contents and guidelines. I will follow the procedures in place and help my child and the coach foster a relationship built on trust and respect. I will allow my child to handle questions or concerns first with the coach and approach the coach with my own questions and concerns at suitable times for such conversation and work toward resolution. PARENT SIGNATURE: ____________________________________ DATE: __________________

NEW MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL · 2016-03-26 · Barlow, Stratord, and Weston. OFFERINGS New Milford High...

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Transcript of NEW MILFORD HIGH SCHOOL · 2016-03-26 · Barlow, Stratord, and Weston. OFFERINGS New Milford High...