Athletic Handbook for

Middle and High Schools

2016 - 2017

Roanoke City Public Schools

40 Douglass Avenue, NW

Roanoke, Virginia 24012

www.rcps.info

Dr. Rita Bishop

Superintendent

Athletic Administration

F.L. Slough – 540-853-6075

Coordinator of Middle School Athletics, Health and Physical Education, and Driver Education

Patrick Henry High School Joe Jablonski – Principal 2102 Grandin Road, SW Patti Sheedy – Athletic Director Roanoke, Virginia 24015 (540) 853 – 2255 William Fleming High School Archie Freeman – Principal 3649 Ferncliff Avenue, NW T. J. Shepardson – Athletic Director Roanoke, Virginia 24017 (540) 853 – 2781

Lucy Addison Middle School Dr. Robert Johnson – Principal 1220 Fifth Street, NW Roanoke, Virginia 24016 (540) 853 – 2681 James Breckinridge Middle School Mrs. Tracey Anderson – Principal 3901 Williamson Road, NW Roanoke, Virginia 24012 (540) 853 – 2251 Stonewall Jackson Middle School Dr. Cindy Delp – Principal 1004 Montrose Avenue, SE Roanoke, Virginia 24013 (540) 853 – 6040 James Madison Middle School Mrs. Whitney Johnson – Principal 1160 Overland Road, SW Roanoke, Virginia 24015 (540) 853 – 2351 Woodrow Wilson Middle School Mrs. Rosalind Henderson – Principal 1813 Carter Road, SW Roanoke, Virginia 24015 (540) 853 – 2358

Rev. 6-15-2016

www.rcps.info p: 540.853.2381 f: 540.853.2951 P.O. Box 13145 Roanoke VA 24031

Rita D. Bishop, Ed.D. Superintendent

Dear Athletes, Parents and Guardians, I am proud that you have chosen to participate in the Roanoke City Public Schools’ athletic program. Our programs offer a wide array of choices that will help you build your skills and gain a sense of the meaning of “team.” Most of us who played a sport(s) forged lifelong friendships. I hope you will as well! Other students will look up to you as you represent your school. Athletes are leaders on the field and on the floor. Your sportsmanship, grades, and sense of fair play will be an example to your fellow students. Be a leader. Be a positive role model. Be the person your school needs. Believe in yourself. Have a great season!

Rita D. Bishop

PROFILE

RCPS offers athletic / academic activity opportunities for students in grades 8 through 12 on junior varsity and varsity teams. Middle

school teams for students in grades 6 through 8. RCPS currently sponsors the following activities for the fall, winter and spring.

FALL WINTER SPRING

High School Cheerleading Basketball – Boys & Girls Baseball

Cross Country – Boys & Girls Cheerleading Lacrosse – Boys & Girls

Football Indoor Track – Boys & Girls Soccer – Boys & Girls

Golf – Boys & Girls Swimming – Boys & Girls Softball

Volleyball – Girls Wrestling Tennis – Boys & Girls

Theater - WF Debate Track – Boys & Girls

Forensics

Scholastic Bowl

Theater – PH

Middle School Cross Country – Boys & Girls Basketball – Boys & Girls Baseball

Football Cheer / Pep Squad Soccer – Boys & Girls

Golf – Boys & Girls Wrestling Softball

Tennis – Boys & Girls Track – Boys & Girls

Volleyball

Patrick Henry High School and William Fleming High School competes as a member of the Virginia High School League (VHSL),

the state governing body for interscholastic athletics and activities. Membership in the VHSL allows our teams to compete for

conference, regional and state championships, when available. For interscholastic athletic competition, schools are grouped by

enrollment. More information can be found at the VHSL website www.vhsl.org

New Classification system:

William Fleming High School Class 4A Patrick Henry High School Class 5A

School Colors: Royal / Gold School Colors: Purple / Gold

Blue Ridge District River Ridge District

Alleghany Blacksburg

Lord Botetourt Carroll County

William Byrd Cave Spring

William Fleming Christiansburg

Northside Hidden Valley

Rockbridge County Patrick Henry

Staunton River Pulaski County

Salem

Conference 24 Conference 16

Bassett Albemarle

William Byrd Atlee

Carroll County Halifax County

William Fleming Patrick Henry – Ashland

Pulaski County Patrick Henry – Roanoke

Salem Orange County

Region 4A West Region 5A North

Schools include Conference 21A, 21B, 22, 23, 24 Schools include Conference 13, 14, 15, 16

William Fleming Athletic Schedules can be found at: Patrick Henry Athletic Schedules can be found at:

www.blueridgedistrictva.org www.riverridgedistrictva.org

Middle Schools Athletic Schedules and information can be found at www.rcmsl.org

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. Introduction

Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Philosophy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

RCPS Athletic Goals . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

2. RCPS Regulations 6-8

Academic Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

Student Conduct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-7

o Eligibility

o School Rules

o Disciplinary Action

o Charges

o Substance Abuse

o Tobacco Products

o Fighting

o Hazing/Bullying

o In/Out School Suspension

o Attendance at School

Other. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7

o Uniforms and Equipment

o Dual Sport Participation

o Safety

o Locker Room

o Overnight Trips

o Media Release

o Transportation

o Team Rules

o Inclement Weather Protocol

Appeal Procedure . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Tryouts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

Communication . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

3. VHSL Eligibility Regulations (VHSL Handbook, Section 28) 9-11

Bona Fide Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Grade Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Enrollment Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Scholarship Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Age Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Transfer Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Interpretations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Transfer Rule Exception . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Semester Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Amateur Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physical Examination Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Awards Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Independent Team Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Specific Penalty for Giving False Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Sportsmanship Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Due Process Rule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

Other – Sportsmanship. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11

4. Code of Conduct 12

Student Athlete . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Coaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Parents . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

5. Health and Safety 13-15

Athletic Training Program . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Blood Drives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Conditioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13

Injuries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Nutrition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Athletic Insurance (How to file a Claim). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Concussion . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

6. College Planning 16-21

NCAA Clearinghouse . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16

Division I Initial-Eligibility Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17-18

Division II Initial-Eligibility Requirements . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-20

Division III Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21

7. Fundamentals of Sportsmanship 22

8. Permission for Medical Treatment Form (returned before participation) 23

9. RCPS Athlete and Parent Handbook Policy Signature Form (returned before participation) 25-26

Introduction

Mission Statement

The mission of Roanoke City Public Schools (RCPS) Athletic Programs is to prepare student athletes physically, emotionally, and

academically for lifelong participation in sports and to prepare them for the option to pursue post-secondary education.

Statement of Philosophy

RCPS believes that athletic participation promotes perseverance, thinking under pressure, loyalty, physical well-being, emotional

control, and teamwork. We believe that athletes should be successful and responsible students who are recognized for their

contributions to our schools. We believe that athletic participation is an important part of the middle and high school experience and

we encourage all students to become part of this program.

We understand that participation on an athletic team demands a commitment that involves both dedication and sacrifice. This is

required of not only our student athletes, but also coaches and parents. We believe that parent support is critical for the success of our

program.

Athletic Department Goals

To recognize and support the role of athletics as a vital part of the education process.

To support our school‟s belief in the development of the whole person: spirit, mind and body, through athletic competition.

To supplement the academic program by providing for the development of physical skills and further development of

personal character, self-discipline and commitment.

To provide opportunities for students to develop a sense of responsibility and learn leadership, organizational, and team

participation skills.

To conduct a sports program in accordance with the letter and spirit of the rules and regulations of our Schools, District,

Conference, Region and VHSL.

With these goals in mind, the student athlete, coaches, and administration will work together to abide by the regulations and

goals of the sports program.

Participation in athletic program is a privilege that must be continuously earned by student-athletes and coaches.

By adhering, to these goals and standards of conduct we will maintain the best possible climate for personal growth, spirited

competition, and loyal community support.

Zero code of conduct infractions by our coaches.

SCHOOL BOARD OF THE CITY OF ROANOKE

HARASSMENT/DISCRIMINATION

In accordance with law, the School Board prohibits harassment/discrimination against students, employees, or others on the basis of

sex, gender, race, color, national origin,, disability, religion, ancestry, age, marital status, genetic information or any characteristic

protected by law or based on a belief that such characteristic exists at school or any school-sponsored activity; equal access is

provided to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups.

The Complaint Procedure is established to meet the requirements of Title IX, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”)

and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It may be used by anyone who wishes to file a complaint alleging

discrimination/harassment in the provision of services, activities, programs, or benefits by the School Board of the City of Roanoke

(Also referred to in this grievance procedure as the “School Board” or “Roanoke City Public Schools”). School Board‟s Policy

GBA/JFHA, Prohibition Against Harassment and Retaliation, governs employment-related complaints of discrimination/harassment.

The complaint should be in writing and contain information about the alleged discrimination such as name, address, phone number of

complainant and location, date, and description of the problem. Alternative means of filing complaints, such as personal interviews or

a tape recording of the complaint, will be made available for persons with disabilities upon request.

The complaint should be submitted by the complainant and/or his/her designee as soon as possible and should be made within fifteen

(15) days of the alleged violation to:

Steve Barnett, Deputy Superintendent for Operations OR Yolanda Conaway-Wood, Executive Director for Student Services

(540) 853-2382 (540) 853-1393

5

ROANOKE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

RULES AND REGULATIONS FOR STUDENTS PARTICIPATING IN ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES

RCPS believes that athletes should be leaders by example on and off the court. Each team will have their own team rules but all

athletes will be required to adhere to the following rules established by Roanoke City Public Schools. All rules become effective for

each VHSL regulated sport season the first day of tryouts through the last official day of the season.

Academics

High School Middle School

All athletes must maintain a 2.0 GPA during

the preceding semester or they will be

required to attend tutoring sessions either

before or after school. Failure to attend and

participate successfully in tutoring sessions

will result in suspension from participating in

games.

If an athlete at the interim drops below a 2.0,

then the athlete will be required to attend

tutoring sessions for the remainder of the 9

weeks. Failure to attend and participate

successfully in tutoring sessions will result in

suspension from participating in games.

All athletes must achieve a 2.0 GPA and no

more than one „3‟ in citizenship during the

preceding nine weeks/interim period prior to

participation in an activity.

If a student‟s GPA drops below a 2.0 during the

playing season, he/she must participate in

tutoring during the regular school and/or after

school program. Grades will be reviewed every

4.5 weeks in order for students to remain

eligible for participation. Athletes may continue

to practice and participate as long as the above

requirements are met.

Student Conduct

1. Decisions concerning an athlete‟s eligibility to participate in the athletic program will be made by the local school

administration subject to VHSL rules and regulations.

2. All athletes are to abide by all school rules for student conduct and conduct themselves at all times in a manner that brings

credit to themselves as athletes and as a representative of Roanoke City Public Schools. The Principal reserves the right to

remove any athlete not representing high standards for their school.

3. Any athlete who becomes involved in a situation which is detrimental to the team and/or school can expect disciplinary

action, in accordance with the Student Code of Conduct. An athlete who is suspended from school is not eligible to practice,

play or attend sporting events. Suspension for fighting will carry an additional two game suspension upon returning to

school. Parents can appeal the additional two games to the Athletic Director if they feel that there were extenuating

circumstances.

4. Any athlete who has been charged with any felony will be removed from the team until disposition of the charges. If any

athlete is found guilty of a felony he/she will be removed from the team for 60 days or the end of the sports season,

whichever is longer. Misdemeanor charges will be reviewed on a case by case basis and outcomes could affect participation

in athletics.

5. Any athlete in the possession or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or other illegal substances will be removed from the

team for sixty-days or end of that sports season whichever is longer. This means that he/she cannot attend practice, travel, or

attend banquets with their team. These athletes will not be nominated for end of the season awards in that sport.

6. Any athlete with tobacco products (also included e-cigarettes, hookah, etc.) in their possession will be suspended from 2

games for the first offense and removed from the team if there is a second offense.

7. Any athlete involved in a fight during competition will sit out a two game suspension. If that athlete is involved in another

fight during the season, he/she will be removed from the team. Suspension for fighting will carry an additional two game

suspension upon returning to school. Parents can appeal the additional two games to the Athletic Director if they feel that

there were extenuating circumstances.

8. Hazing or bullying anyone will not be tolerated and will result in removal from the team for the remainder of the season.

6

9. Any athlete who has received a disciplinary consequence of In-School Suspension, Out-of School Suspension and/or who

have been referred to law enforcement or court services MUST report the incident to the coach immediately. The coach will

present the facts to the athletic director and/or administrator who will determine eligibility.

10. An athlete must be in school for at least 50% of the school day to be eligible to participate in an athletic activity. It is

expected that all athletes be in school the entire school day. Individual exceptions such as documented family emergencies,

pre-arranged family trips, medical or dental appointments, school field trips, college visits, or other absences that are pre-

excused by the athletic director are accepted. In-school suspension does not count as attendance for the purposes of this rule.

The discovery of a violation of any of these attendance/eligibility rules after the contest or event will result in suspension

from participation on the next event or contest date.

Other

11. All uniforms and equipment issued to athletes must be returned within a week after the conclusion of the season. Students

assume financial responsibility for missing, lost, or damaged equipment or uniforms. The athlete may not participate in the

next athletic contest until equipment obligations are met and all fees are paid in full.

12. Athletes may not participate in more than one sport during a sports season unless the athlete has approval of the two coaches,

and the two coaches have met with and received approval from the athletic director. Athletes must determine primary sport

and secondary at the beginning of the season. Athletes who are given permission will be monitored academically on a more

frequent basis to assess their success maintaining dual participation status.

13. For safety reasons, athletes should not wear necklaces, rings, earrings, other piercings, or watches while training, practicing,

or participating in games.

14. Locker rooms – Athletes will be issued a locker in the “locker room”, all personal items should be left locked in their locker

during practices and games. Coaches will lock the locker rooms during practices and games.

15. Overnight Trip Permission Form – Any overnight athletic trip will require parent approval/signature before athlete can attend

the event.

16. Media Release - I understand by participating in extracurricular activities that my student‟s picture and name may be used by

media outlets. Also, RCPS photographs athletes and games and those photos may be used on the RCPS website, Facebook

and Twitter.

17. Transportation - Athletic teams will travel on school buses, charter buses and rental vehicles. Athletes will be released to

their parents only to travel home from away games. Parents must sign out only their child with the coach. The parents may

take another athlete home only if that parent has a written note from their parent with the name of parent who has permission

to take home.

18. Each individual team will have additional rules that the athletes will be expected to follow. These rules will be on file and

approved by the Athletic Director prior to the season. Any team rule violation must result in the parent and Athletic Director

being notified by the coach as soon as possible.

19. Inclement Weather Protocol - When there is no school in session the following will occur: 1) Central Office will notify

Athletic Directors whether or not practice/games are allowed. 2) Parents must give permission to provide transportation to

and from practice.

Appeal Procedure

The student-athlete seeking to appeal a disciplinary decision made by the principal/athletic director must request an appeals

hearing in writing to the District Athletic Director within 5 business days of the disputed decision. A written statement from

the student-athlete stating the basis for the appeal must accompany the request for the appeal. This statement will become

part of the appeal packet and will be shared with members of the Appeals Committee and with the representative of the

Athletics Department. The Appeals Committee will conduct a hearing and provide written results of the hearing to the

student-athlete within 5 business days of the hearing. The hearing shall be informal. Both the student-athlete and a

representative of the Athletics Department will be allowed to present relevant information to the RCPS Appeals Committee

at the hearing. Since the hearing is informal, neither party may have an advocate nor legal counsel present at the hearing. The

decision of the Appeals Committee is final.

7

TRYOUTS

Students must meet all eligibility requirements, including having the results of a valid physical exam on file, in order to try out for a

RCPS athletic team. Because there is no guarantee a student will make the team, the school does not reimburse a student for any

expense associated with trying out – including, but not limited to, the cost of the athletic physical or equipment purchased in

anticipation of making the team.

Prospective athletes must follow the tryout procedure set by the coaches. Absences from tryouts for any reason may hinder a student‟s

chances of making the team. Athletes should discuss matters of this type with the coach and director of athletics (Principals for middle

school). Tryouts are held regardless of holidays or vacations, and candidates are expected to be present for all sessions. Tryouts are

held over at least a three day period. There may be double sessions when school is not in session. Weather conditions may necessitate

an indoor format or may extend the tryout period.

After the tryout period, those not progressing will be notified by the coach. Any additional cuts follow the same format for

notification. Trying out for a second, same season sport – after being cut from another one – is allowed at the discretion of the coaches

and athletic director. Once an athlete leaves a team for another sport, he/she cannot switch back. Before considering switching sports,

athletes should meet with the athletic director for guidance.

There is some overlapping of sports seasons. Students who are participating in previous season‟s sport may not quit that sport to

practice in another. There is no penalty or disadvantage in the second sport because of this rule. Tryout periods must be extended for

candidates involved in another RCPS athletic team whose season has not yet been completed. Tryout periods may be extended for

candidates who are returning after a significant injury, candidate not enrolled as a RCPS student during the initial tryout period but,

upon enrolling, meets all eligibility requirements and/or the number of participants in a given sport drops below an acceptable level.

The principal and/or athletic director approves player selection decisions made by the coach. Once approved, the selections are final

and no changes are made only if a selected candidate declines participation. Candidates have the opportunity to hear from the coach

his or her rationale for the selections. Parents seeking further information may contact the coach. However, no selection decision is

changed without prior approval of the athletic director. Candidates and their parents must respect the decisions of the coach. Any

inappropriate language or behavior directed toward the coach by the candidate or their parent or guardian may result in the candidate

being suspended from further athletic participation.

A „drop‟ is defined as a decision by an athlete, parent or guardian that the student will no longer participate in the sport for the

remainder of the season. When dropping from a team, an athlete must discuss the situation with the coach before the drop is finalized.

Once finalized, all equipment that was issued must be returned in good condition as soon as possible. Dropping from a team is a very

drastic step that disrupts much of the work the team accomplished up to that point. An athlete and his or her parent or guardian should

consult with the coach prior to making this decision. A student may not drop from a sport that conducted tryouts and subsequent cuts,

and then participate in another sport.

COMMUNICATION

Communication expected from parents:

o Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance of the date in question.

o Specific concerns with regard to a coach‟s philosophy, actions, and/or expectations.

o Disclosure of other issues as they apply to your child‟s participation on the team.

Communication you should expect from your child‟s coach:

o Philosophy of the coach.

o Expectations the coach has for your child, as well as all the participants in the program.

o Locations and times of all practices and contests.

o Team requirements, i.e. practice, fees, special equipment, and off-season conditioning.

o Procedure should your child be injured during participation.

o Discipline that result in child‟s dismissal from the team.

8

REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION

Virginia High School League

The Virginia High School League (VHSL) is the governing body for Virginia interscholastic athletics. All rules and regulations

governing high school athletes and athletics are legislated by this organization. A complete text of these regulations is available from

the school athletic director or can be found at www.vhsl.org .

VHSL INDIVIDUAL ELIGIBILITY REGULATIONS

(VHSL HANDBOOK, SECTION 28)

GENERAL RULES APPLICABLE TO ALL STUDENTS

28A-2-1 BONA FIDE STUDENT RULE

(1)The student shall be a regular bona fide student in good standing of the school which he/she represents.

(2)Any student who is under penalty of suspension, or whose character or conduct is such as to reflect discredit upon his/her school, is

not considered in good standing.

28-4-1 GRADE RULE

The student shall be enrolled in the last four years of high school.

(1)8th graders may only participate on the sub-varsity level for one year prior to entering the ninth grade.

(2)8th grade students who passed five eight grade subjects the past school year (see note following (28-5-1) (6) and reached the age of

fifteen on or before the first day of August may compete on the varsity level.

28A-3-1 ENROLLMENT RULE

The student shall have been regularly enrolled in the school which he/she represents no later than the fifteenth day of the semester.

28A-5-1 SCHOLARSHIP RULE

The student shall:

A)For the first semester be currently enrolled in no fewer than five subjects, or their equivalent, offered for credit and which may be

used for graduation and have passed five subjects, or their equivalent, offered for credit and which may be used for graduation the

immediate preceding year or the immediate preceding semester for schools that certify credit on a semester basis; and

B)For the second semester be currently enrolled in no fewer than five subjects, or their equivalent, offered for credit and which may be

used for graduation and have passed five subjects, or their equivalent, offered for credit and which may be used for graduation the

immediate preceding semester.

NOTE: Credit for courses must be recognized by the State Department of Education. Such credit is to be awarded for the semester in

which the work is scheduled to be completed. Credit for summer school work must be applied on the immediate preceding semester or

year. Courses for non-credit cannot be used toward the five-subject pass rule.

28A-5-2 EXCEPTIONS

(4)A special education student who is working toward a special diploma must make standard progress as determined by the student‟s

IEP.

(5) A special education student who is working toward a standard diploma must take and pass the equivalent of five subjects in

accordance with any IEP modifications. If the IEP Committee determines that a special education student working toward a standard

diploma should take fewer than five subjects, he/she must pass those subjects mandated by their IEP.

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.

28A-7-1 TRANSFER RULE

The student shall not have been 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. A student in cases of changes in court ordered

custody that involve transfers within a school or between contiguous school divisions, the lesser of ONE SEMESTER or 90 DAY

PENALTY OF INELIGIBILITY will be in effect from the date of the transfer.

28A-7-3 INTERPRETATIONS

(7)Residence is defined as the domicile on 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 place a fixed and permanent home. Other indicia of domicile include automobile registration, voter

registration and the reporting of 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

9

the obligation of the school to know the complete residence status of each student 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 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

circumstance.

(3) The change must be made with the intent that is permanent.

28A-7-2 TRANSFER RULE EXCEPTIONS

A student shall become eligible for interscholastic competition after he/she has completed 365 days of attendance at the high school

which he/she transferred, immediately preceding the semester for which the student desires to become eligible. For the purpose of this

rule, the transferring of student must have been regularly enrolled in the school in which he/she wishes to establish eligibility no later

than the fifteenth day of the first of two consecutive semesters, unless he/she is granted a waiver of the Enrollment Rule by the district

committee. For the purposes of this rule the student‟s eligibility or ineligibility shall be determined on the first day of the school year

and on the first calendar day following the end of the first semester according to the school board adopted calendar. Students who

qualify under the McKinney Vento Homeless Education Act may be eligible under the Transfer Rule.

In cases of court-ordered custody, a copy of the appropriate legal custody document shall be submitted to the Executive Director for

review and approval. Approval is contingent upon the receiving school‟s principal attesting that there is no evidence that the transfer

was for athletic and/or activity purposes. A student, 18 years of age or older, who would be subject to a transfer of custody if he/she

were less than 18 years of age may petition the Executive Director through the student‟s principal for eligibility and the Executive

Director has authority to grant such eligibility immediately.

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 or not he/she remains continuously enrolled in school.

28B-2-1 AMATUER RULE

A student who represents a school in an interscholastic sport shall be an amateur in that sport. An amateur is an athlete who engages in

athletic competition solely for the physical, mental, social, and pleasure benefits derived there from.

28B-3-1 ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION / PARENTAL CONSENT / PHYSICAL EXAMINATION RULE

The student shall have submitted to the principal of his/her school, prior to becoming an member of any school athletic squad or team,

League Form No. 2 (Athletic Participation/Parental Consent/Physical Examination Form), completely filled in and properly signed,

attesting that he/she has been examined and found to be physically fit for athletic competition, and that his/her parents consent to

his/her participation.

28B-4-1 AWARDS RULE

Students may accept awards presented or approved by the student‟s school. Outside agencies or organizations which desire to present

awards or recognitions to students for achievement in some phrase of the League program when such awards are open competitively

to the students of more than one school must first secure the permission of the Executive Director.

28B-6-1 INDEPENDENT TEAM RULE

During the sports season for the relevant sport, a student may, while a member of a school squad or team engaged in interscholastic

sports become a member of or participate with an organized team in the same sport which is independent of the school‟s control so

long as such participation does not conflict with the scheduled activities of the school squad or team. No school or student shall

be declared ineligible for participation in interscholastic sports because of participation by a student as a member of an organized team

in the same sport which is independent of the school‟s control during the sports season for the relevant sports.

30-5-3 SPECIFIC PENALTY FOR GIVING FALSE INFORMATION

If a student or his/her parent(s) or guardian gives false information, written or verbal, that affects his/her eligibility upon entering and

/or during his/her eight semesters of eligibility, relating to his/her residence, eligibility or any other aspects of these rules and

regulations, the student shall become deemed ineligible at any VHSL school for a period of one year from the date the information is

certified as being false.

10

27-11-1 SPORTSMANSHIP RULE

Member schools are required to conduct all their relations with other schools in a spirit of good sportsmanship. Acts, which are prima

facie evidence of failure to abide by this rule, are those, which are noted below, and others of a similar nature, which transgress the

usually accepted code for good sportsmanship. All incidents of conduct that are violations of the Sportsmanship Rule must be reported

to the Virginia High School League.

28-14-1 DUE PROCESS RULE Whenever a principal has information that a student who wants to represent to school in a League-sponsored activity may be ineligible

to do so because of failure to qualify under one or more of the individual eligibility regulations in Section 28 of the Handbook, he/she

shall promptly conduct an informal hearing within three working days to resolve the question. The student shall be entitled to be

present at the hearing and to offer information about his/her eligibility. If, subsequent to the hearing, the principal determines that the

student is ineligible, he/she shall inform the student by letter of his/her ineligibility and the specific individual eligibility regulations

involved. Excluding those exceptions listed under 28-14-2, the student or parent may appeal the principal‟s declaration of ineligibility

to the District Committee by writing to the district chairman. The District Committee shall review the case within five working days

after receiving notice of the appeal. The student shall be entitled to be present at the District Committee hearing and to offered

information about his/her eligibility. The District Committee may set aside a rule only for these specific cases: Enrollment Rule 28-3-

2 (2), Scholarship Rule 28-4-2 (3) and Transfer Rule 28-6-2 (13). All other decisions of the District Committee shall be

recommendations only. Any decision of the District Committee may be appealed by the student, parent or member school principal to

the Executive Director and subsequent levels of appeal in accordance with Section 33 of the Handbook.

Whenever a District Committee or an interDistrict Committee as information that a student previously certified as eligible by the

principal may not be eligible because of failure to qualify under one or more of the individual eligibility regulations in Section 28 of

the Handbook, the committee shall promptly, within five working days, conduct an informal hearing to resolve the question. The

student and the principal shall be entitled to be present and to offer information about the case, and the District Committee shall consul

the Executive Director as required in Section 20-3-1 of the Handbook. The District Committee may set aside a rule only for these

specific cases: Enrollment Rule 28-3-2 (2), Scholarship Rule 28-4-2 (3) and Transfer Rule 28-6-3 (14). All other decisions of the

District Committee shall be recommendations only. If subsequent to the hearing, the committee determines that the student is

ineligible, it shall notify the student and the principal of the ineligibility and the specific individual eligibility regulations involved.

The student, parent or member school principal, in keeping with Section 33 of the handbook, may appeal the committee‟s decision to

the Executive Director and subsequent levels of appeal in accordance with Section 33 of the Handbook.

28-14-2

Exceptions – A student who is denied participation in League activities (a) because of local rules authorized in Section 27-1-10, or (b)

because of any rule or regulations of any local school board or division superintendent.

27-11-2 Includes failure to control spectators attending contests as a violation of the Sportsmanship Rule.

27-11-4

Harassment of contest officials by a coach or a coach‟s ejection constitutes a violation of the Sportsmanship Rule.

27-13-4

Failure of a school to use every measure necessary to insure proper conduct of faculty, students, and spectators constitutes a violation

of the Sportsmanship Rule.

27-11-5

Failure of a school to use every means at its disposal to impress upon its faculty, student body, team members, coaching staff and

officials the values of sportsmanship in the preparation for, and the conduct and management of , interscholastic contests.

27-11-6 Players and coaches who are ejected from a contest for unsportsmanlike conduct and are ineligible for the team‟s next contest must be

reported to the VHSL office.

11

STUDENT ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT It is our belief that athletics provides an opportunity for the development of athletic skills, physical conditioning, good health and

positive character traits. We believe that every athlete in Roanoke City Public Schools should strive towards the following:

To develop the skills necessary to participate competently in the games and demonstrate knowledge of the strategies of the

game.

To demonstrate a level of physical fitness, conditioning and healthy eating habits to participate competently in games.

To recognize the necessity to abstain from the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs in order to achieve the benefits of

participating in interscholastic athletics.

To recognize that character counts and to strive to be dependable, committed, respectful of others, truthful, and a good

teammate. This includes but is not limited to the use of social media such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

To accept responsibility for the consequences of one‟s actions and do not make excuses or blame others.

To accept winning and losing graciously by congratulating your opponent and not displaying negative behaviors.

To refrain from “trash talk” with opponents or teammates.

To set good examples for teammates, younger athletes, fans and the community.

COACH’S CODE

The Athletic Director and Coaches are leaders, dedicated to more than X‟s and O‟s of competition. As leaders and role models to our

student athletes, RCPS coaches and Athletic Director will:

Exemplify the highest character as a role model for our athletes and recognize the importance of the self-image of both the

athletes and the team.

Establish with athletes that they are students first and success in the classroom is expected.

Establish realistic goals and vision for each season and communicate them with their athletes and parents.

Create a set of training rules that reflect the positive value of disciple, character and abstaining from the use of alcohol,

tobacco and other drugs.

Build and maintain ethical relationships with coaches, parents and administrators.

Strive for excellence in coaching skills and techniques through professional improvement.

Be modest in victory and gracious in defeat.

Encourage young athletes to pursue multiple sports as this will improve their athletic abilities in all sports as well as enhance

college applications.

Coaches will demonstrate the highest standards of sportsmanship at all times.

PARENT’S CODE

Parents play an important role in the development of the student athletes in RCPS and the success of our programs. Therefore, we

expect parents to do the following:

Be a positive role model through their action to make sure that their child has the best possible experience in athletics.

Show respect for opposing players, coaches, spectators and officials.

Parents are not allowed on the playing field, court or pool area during or after an RCPS athletic event. If an altercation

occurs at the event, any parent that enters the field of play (including after the game) will lose their privilege of attending

events at the school for the rest of the season. This is for your safety and the safety of all athletes. The coaches,

administrators and police will break up any altercations and get your athletes to a safe location.

Do not attempt to instruct your child before, during or right after a contest as this might be in conflict with the coach‟s plans.

Take time to talk with coaches in an appropriate manner, including proper time and place, if there is a concern. Examples of

possible concerns are: the treatment of your child, mentally and physically, ways to help your child improve. Concerns about

your child‟s behavior, concerns about your child‟s academic progress.

Be sure to follow the designated chain of command. (Coach, Athletic Director, Principal)

If an athlete has issues with playing time, he/she should speak to the coach. A coach will not discuss playing time, other

players or coaching decisions with parents.

Please reinforce our alcohol, tobacco and other drug-free policies by refraining from the use of any of such substances before

or during an athletic event.

Help your child learn that success is experienced in the development of their skills and that they can feel good about

themselves, win or lose. Praise them and their teammates as they improve their skills as individuals and as a team.

Try your best to be completely honest about your children‟s athletic capability, competitive attitude and sportsmanship and

actual skill level.

Try not to re-live your athletic life through your children in a way that creates pressure. You fumbled; too, you lost as well as

won. You were frightened, you backed off at times, and you were not always heroic. Don‟t pressure them because of your

lost pride.

Always remember that children tend to exaggerate, both when praised and criticized. Temper you actions and investigate

before over-reacting.

12

HEALTH and SAFETY

Athletic Training Program

It is well documented that injury is reduced and performance enhanced when health, fitness and safety training are supported. The

certified athletic trainer (ATC) is responsible to provide not only emergency care to injured athletes, but also provide injury

prevention, and rehabilitation and reconditioning of athletic injuries. While the role of the ATC is not to take the place of the family

physician, the ATC can act as a liaison between the athletes, coaches, parents and medical community, as well as carry out the

direction of a physician regarding care and rehabilitation after an injury. Physician Response forms and Medical Information Release

forms are available to help encourage appropriate communication between the treating physician and the ATC regarding a student-

athletes injury or condition. RCPS requires the ATC to be informed of all injuries and conditions that impact the participation status of

a student athlete.

Blood Drives

For safety reasons, athletes whose sport is in season are advised not to donate blood on practice or contest days.

Conditioning

The athletic department provides information for training and conditioning appropriate to the sport. A weight room is available to

meet training requirements (High Schools). The athletic department provides appropriate supervision. Courses and training times, as

available, are posted in the school.

Injuries

The coaching staff endeavors to reduce the risk of injury by maintaining professional standards; however, as a condition of

participating in sports, the athlete and his/her parent or guardian must sign the Acknowledgement of Risk and Insurance Statement on

the VHSL physical form. Participation in athletics may result in injury, paralysis or even death/ choosing to participate acknowledges

these risks.

The athletic trainer provides first aid and injury assessment. Appropriate measures are taken in the event of an incident, and parents

are called, if necessary. The selection of a physician or a facility for follow up treatment or rehabilitation is a personal choice, but

consultation with the athletic trainer usually results in better medical decisions.

If an athlete receives an injury that prevents full or customary participation in practice or games, he/she will be placed on the school‟s

“Restricted Activities List”. The student may not resume full team activity until cleared to do so by a physician, the school‟s athletic

trainer, the coach, the athletic director and the parent or guardian. Any of these parties has the authority to restrict an athlete‟s

participation. Athletes must return physicians note to athletic trainer for full participation before athlete may resume practice.

Nutrition

The athletic department will: (1) encourage proper nutritional conditioning for the athlete‟s sport, (2) encourage appropriate diets and

hydration for athletic performance, (3) discourage inappropriate diets for weight loss, and (4) discourage inappropriate performance-

enhancing drugs and activities.

13

ATHLETIC INSURANCE

The Roanoke City Public Schools has been able to secure a SECONDARY Insurance Coverage for all student-athletes participating in

middle and high school sports. The insurance is paid for by the RCPS.

All athletes must complete and return the signed athletic insurance information cards prior to any tryout or practice session. Athletes

and parents should also be advised that the RCPS Athletic Insurance is limited in coverage and is intended to supplement family

owned policies.

Parents are responsible for making all claims. Notification of injury forms must be picked up from the high school‟s athletic training

office or from the middle school principal‟s office. Notification of injury forms must be submitted to the company within 90 days of

the accident and the initial treatment for the injury must have commenced within 90 days of the injury.

All athletes are covered by catastrophic insurance provided thru the VHSL.

HOW TO FILE A CLAIM

To process your claim please submit the following three pieces of information:

1. Completed and Signed Claim Form

2. Itemized Bills

3. Explanation of Benefits from your PRIMARY Insurance Carrier.

These documents should be mailed, emailed or faxed to:

A-G Administrators, Inc.

Claims Department

P.O. Box 979

Valley Forge, PA. 19482

Claims1@agadm.com

(610) 933-4122 Fax

(610) 933-0800 Phone

(800) 634-8628 Toll Free

1. The Claim Form enables us to open a claim for the treatment of your injury. To avoid delays in claim processing please be

sure the “other insurance” portion of the claim form is completed in full. The claim form must be signed by a school official

such as a coach or athletic trainer.

2. Itemized Bills: Please include copies of all medical bills, showing the name and address of the provider of service, date of

service, type of service and the charges. Account statements or “balance due” statements are helpful, but do not contain all

the information needed to process the charge.

3. Explanation of Benefits: If you have other medical insurance, all medical bills must be first submitted to that carrier for their

determination of eligibility. If the charges are not paid in full by the other medical insurance carrier we will need to see a

copy of the “Explanation of Benefits” from that carrier prior to issuing benefits from this office. If you have no primary

medical insurance the need for an “Explanation of Benefits” will not be applicable to your claim.

SAMPLE CLAIM FORM

14

CONCUSSION

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury. A concussion can be caused by a blow to the head or body which causes the brain to move rapidly

inside the skull. Concussions affect the metabolic processes of the brain. This just means that the chemicals are not reacting with each

other the way they should. All concussions are a serious medical concern, even “getting your bell rung.” MRI‟s and CT‟s are good for

ruling out more time sensitive injuries such as bleeding in/around the brain or a skull fracture, however they cannot show a

concussion.

A concussion is a brain injury.

All concussions are serious.

Concussions can occur without loss of consciousness.

Concussions can occur in any sport.

Signs and symptoms of a concussion can show immediately or may not show up for days or weeks later. If an athlete reports any

symptoms of a concussion or you recognize any signs, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Observed Signs Reported Symptoms

Athlete appears dazed or confused Complains of headache or pressure

Does not understand simple instructions Nausea or vomiting

No short term recall Problems with balance or dizzy

Cannot recall date, location, sport, name, etc. Double or blurry vision

Moves clumsily Sensitivity to light

Slow to answer questions, if at all Sensitivity to noise

Loses consciousness (even briefly) Feels sluggish or in a fog

Behavior or personality changes Concentration or memory problems

Cannot recall events pre injury Complains of ringing in the ears

Cannot recall events post injury

Return to Play

Concussions can be a life threatening injury and should be treated with care. Some signs and symptoms will resolve immediately

others will linger for days or weeks. It is important that the athlete does not return to play before he/she is completely healed from the

concussion. If an athlete obtains a second blow to the head before he/she is healed from the initial brain injury then the possibility of

long term effects is greater and there is a chance of incurring Second Impact Syndrome (SIS). SIS is considered the events that occur

after the second concussion which may cause brain swelling, long term effects on brain function and can be fatal. Consideration for

return to play should not be considered until the athlete is symptom free. After symptom free athlete may begin a slow progression

back to activity as long as no symptoms recur. Standard return to play protocol is 7 days after all symptoms have subsided.

5 Phases to Return to Play

Phase 1 – Low impact activity, no resistance training (Ex. Stationary Bike or walking 10-20 minutes)

Phase 2 – Initiate aerobic activity fundamental to specific sport (Ex. Skating or running, may also begin progressive

strength training activities)

Phase 3 – Begin non-contact sport specific drills (Ex. Dribbling, fielding, batting, etc.)

Phase 4 – Full Contact in a practice setting

Phase 5 – May return to practice or play if remains asymptomatic

Repeated Concussions

After an athlete sustains one concussion, they are more likely to sustain a second one, compared to others that have not been

concussed. Repeat concussions, even when mild, can increase the risk of post-concussive symptoms, such as headaches, memory loss,

difficulty concentrating, etc.

Please see the following links for more information.

http://www.nata.org/consumer/headsup.htm http://www.nata.org/statements/position/concussion.pdf http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/headsup/high_school.html

15

COLLEGE PLANNING

The process of selecting a college is one of the most difficult and rewarding experiences that a student goes through in high school.

This process works best when the student, parents or guardians, guidance counselors, teachers, coaches, and administrators all work

together in this process. It is a long, complicated process that is best when it is started early. The following information can assist in

the process of selecting a college or university and preparing for college athletic participation. This is only a basic guide for

navigating the process; a meeting should be held with the student‟s professional school counselor to discuss the entire process. A

student athlete interested in attending college and participating in NCAA athletics should obtain a copy of NCAA Guide for the

College-Bound Student-Athlete from the Guidance office:

http://www.ncaapublications.com/productdownloads/CBSA15.pdf

Grades 9 and 10

1. Pursue academic and behavioral excellence. Make sure you are aware of NCAA sliding scale with regard to eligibility

requirements and that your classes are consistent with NCAA guidelines.

a. Meet with your school counselor to assure your classes are NCAA approved. http://www.ncaa.org

2. Develop a sports resume of athletic achievements including stats, news clippings, etc...

3. Attend sports camps to increase exposure, improve skills, and to gain contest experience.

4. Participate on high school teams year round, if possible, to gain a wider perspective, increase strength and conditioning, and

create a more impressive resume.

Grade 11

1. Lock in your 10 classes by the end of your junior year.

2. Continue your hard work in the classroom. Make your best effort in school and get the highest grade point average (GPA)

possible. Take a strong academic load that is not only challenging, but also meets the NCAA requirements.

3. Enroll during the fall semester clearinghouse at http://www.eligibilitycenter.org

4. Meet with your guidance counselor regarding your interests and the recruitment process. Develop a list of schools with the

help of your school counselor, coach, and athletic director.

5. Take required standardized tests (SAT or ACT). *see note below

a. For information on the SAT http://www.collegeboard.com/student/index.html?student

b. For information on the ACT http://www.actstudent.org

c. Make sure you are aware of the NCAA sliding scale and eligibility requirements.

i. http://www.ncaa.org

6. Continue to develop your athletic resume.

7. Obtain literature and visit colleges you may be interested in attending.

8. Work with your coach to evaluate your athletic skills to determine a realistic level of competition.

9. Attend sports camps during the summer.

10. Attend financial aid seminars and fill out appropriate financial aid forms in consultation with your school counselor.

11. Over the summer request that your teachers and/or high school coaches write letters of recommendation to the colleges to

which you have applied.

Grade 12

1. Continue to pursue excellence in the classroom.

2. At the beginning of the school year request that your teachers and/or high school coaches write letters of recommendation to

the colleges to which you have applied.

3. Request and return college applications as early as possible. Pay attention to application deadlines. Work closely with

school counselor to be familiar with the application process.

4. Be familiar with the NCAA eligibility requirements and the NCAA Clearinghouse.

a. https://web1.ncaa.org/eligibilitycenter/common/

b. Meet with your school counselor to make sure you have filled out all appropriate paper work.

5. Complete and return financial aid forms paying close attention to deadlines. You can complete the free application for

federal student aid (FAFSA) beginning January 1st.

6. Continue to keep your athletic resume updated.

7. Re-take SAT or ACT tests if necessary.

a. http://www.collegeboard.com/student/index.html?student

8. Contact college coaches to express interest in their school athletic program. Include your athletic resume and other pertinent

information during the fall semester.

*If you take the current SAT before March 2016 and then take the redesigned SAT at a later date, the NCAA Eligibility Center will not combine section scores from the current and redesigned SAT when determining your initial eligibility. The NCAA Eligibility Center will only combine section scores from the same version of the test. Because the redesigned SAT varies in design and measures different academic concepts than the current SAT, a numerical score on the current test may not be equivalent to the same numerical score on the redesigned test.

16

NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTERQUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

NCAA Division I Initial-Eligibility Requirements Core Courses: (16)

• Initial full-time collegiate enrollment before August 1, 2016:

o Sixteen (16) core courses are required (see chart below for subject-area requirements). • Initial full-time collegiate enrollment on or after August 1, 2016:

o Sixteen (16) core courses are required (see chart below for subject-area requirements). Ten (10) core courses completed before the seventh semester; seven (7) of the 10 must be in English,

math or natural/physical science. • These courses/grades are "locked in" at start of the seventh semester (cannot be repeated for

grade-point average [GPA] improvement to meet initial-eligibility requirements for competition). o Students who do not meet core-course progression requirements may still be eligible to receive athletics

aid and practice in the initial year of enrollment by meeting academic redshirt requirements (see below).

Test Scores: (ACT/SAT)

• Students must present a corresponding test score and core-course GPA on the sliding scale (see Page No. 2). o SAT: critical reading and math sections.

Best subscore from each section is used to determine the SAT combined score for initial eligibility. o ACT: English, math, reading and science sections.

Best subscore from each section is used to determine the ACT sum score for initial eligibility. • All ACT and SAT attempts before initial full-time collegiate enrollment may be used for initial eligibility. • Enter 9999 during ACT or SAT registration to ensure the testing agency reports your score

directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Test scores on transcripts will not be used.

Core Grade-Point Average:

• Only core courses that appear on the high school's List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website (www.eligibilitycenter.org) will be used to calculate your core-course GPA. Use this list as a guide.

• Initial full-time collegiate enrollment before August 1, 2016: o Students must present a corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course

GPA (minimum 2.000) on Sliding Scale A (see Page No. 2). o Core-course GPA is calculated using the best 16 core courses that meet subject-area requirements.

• Initial full-time collegiate enrollment on or after August 1, 2016: o Students must present a corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course

GPA (minimum 2.300) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2). o Core-course GPA is calculated using the best 16 core courses that meet both progression (10 before

seventh semester; seven in English, math or science; "locked in") and subject-area requirements.

DIVISION I Core-Course Requirement (16)

4 years of English 3 years of math (Algebra I or higher) 2 years of natural/physical science

(1 year of lab if offered) 1 year of additional English, math or

natural/physical science 2 years of social science 4 years of additional courses (any

area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy)

DIVISION I – 2016 Qualifier Requirements

*Athletics aid, practice, and competition • 16 core courses

o Ten (10) core courses completed before the start of seventh semester. Seven (7) of the 10 must be in English, math or natural/physical science. "Locked in" for core-course

GPA calculation. • Corresponding test score (ACT

sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course GPA (minimum 2.300) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2).

• Graduate from high school.

DIVISION I – 2016 Academic Redshirt Requirements *Athletics aid and practice (no competition) • 16 core courses

o No grades/credits "locked in" (repeated courses after the seventh semester begins may be used for initial eligibility).

• Corresponding test score (ACT sum score or SAT combined score) and core-course GPA (minimum 2.000) on Sliding Scale B (see Page No. 2).

• Graduate from high school.

17

[Type text]

Sliding Scale B Use for Division I beginning August 1, 2016 NCAA DIVISION I SLIDING SCALE

Core GPA SAT ACT Sum Verbal and Math ONLY

3.550 400 373.525 410 383.500 420 393.475 430 403.450 440 413.425 450 413.400 460 423.375 470 423.350 480 433.325 490 443.300 500 443.275 510 453.250 520 463.225 530 463.200 540 473.175 550 473.150 560 483.125 570 493.100 580 493.075 590 503.050 600 503.025 610 513.000 620 522.975 630 522.950 640 532.925 650 532.900 660 542.875 670 552.850 680 562.825 690 562.800 700 572.775 710 582.750 720 592.725 730 602.700 740 612.675 750 612.650 760 622.625 770 632.600 780 642.575 790 652.550 800 662.525 810 672.500 820 682.475 830 692.450 840 702.425 850 702.400 860 712.375 870 722.350 880 732.325 890 742.300 900 752.299 910 762.275 910 762.250 920 772.225 930 782.200 940 792.175 950 802.150 960 812.125 970 822.100 980 832.075 990 842.050 1000 852.025 1010 862.000 1020 86

Sliding Scale A Use for Division I prior to August 1, 2016 NCAA DIVISION I SLIDING SCALE

Core GPA SAT ACT Sum Verbal and Math ONLY

3.550 & above 400 37 3.525 410 383.500 420 393.475 430 403.450 440 41 3.425 450 41 3.400 460 423.375 470 423.350 480 433.325 490 443.300 500 443.275 510 453.250 520 463.225 530 463.200 540 473.175 550 473.150 560 483.125 570 493.100 580 493.075 590 503.050 600 503.025 610 51 3.000 620 522.975 630 522.950 640 532.925 650 532.900 660 542.875 670 55 2.850 680 562.825 690 562.800 700 57 2.775 710 582.750 720 592.725 730 592.700 730 602.675 740-750 61 2.650 760 622.625 770 632.600 780 642.575 790 652.550 800 662.525 810 672.500 820 682.475 830 692.450 840-850 702.425 860 702.400 860 71 2.375 870 72 2.350 880 73 2.325 890 742.300 900 75 2.275 910 762.250 920 77 2.225 930 782.200 940 792.175 950 802.150 960 802.125 960 81 2.100 970 822.075 980 832.050 990 842.025 1000 852.000 1010 86

For more information, visit www.eligibilitycenter.org or www.2point3.org.

18

NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTERQUICK REFERENCE GUIDE

Division II Initial-Eligibility Requirements Core Courses

• Division II currently requires 16 core courses. See the chart below. • Beginning August 1, 2018, to become a full or partial qualifier for Division II, all college-bound

student-athletes must complete the 16 core-course requirement. Test Scores

• Division II currently requires a minimum SAT score of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68. Beginning August 1, 2018, Division II will use a sliding scale to match test scores and core-course grade-point averages (GPA). The sliding scale for those requirements is shown on Page No. 2 of this sheet.

• The SAT score used for NCAA purposes includes only the critical reading and math sections. The writing section of the SAT is not used.

• The ACT score used for NCAA purposes is a sum of the following four sections: English, mathematics, reading and science.

• When you register for the SAT or ACT, use the NCAA Eligibility Center code of 9999 to ensure all SAT and ACT scores are reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center from the testing agency. Test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used.

Grade-Point Average

• Be sure to look at your high school’s List of NCAA Courses on the NCAA Eligibility Center's website (www.eligibilitycenter.org). Only courses that appear on your school's approved List of NCAA Courses will be used in the calculation of the core GPA. Use the list as a guide.

• The current Division II core GPA requirement is a minimum of 2.000. Division II core GPA required to be eligible for competition on or after August 1, 2018, is 2.200 (corresponding test- score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet).

• The minimum Division II core GPA required to receive athletics aid and practice as a partial qualifier on or after August 1, 2018, is 2.000 (corresponding test-score requirements are listed on the Sliding Scale on Page No. 2 of this sheet).

• Remember, the NCAA core GPA is calculated using NCAA core courses only.

DIVISION II 16 Core Courses

3 years of English. 2 years of mathematics (Algebra I

or higher). 2 years of natural/physical science

(1 year of lab if offered by high school).

3 years of additional English, mathematics or natural/physical science.

2 years of social science. 4 years of additional courses (from

any area above, foreign language or comparative religion/philosophy).

19

DIVISION II PARTIAL QUALIFIER SLIDING SCALE

Use for Division II beginning August 1, 2018 Core GPA SAT ACT Sum

Verbal and Math ONLY 3.050 & above 400 373.025 410 383.000 420 392.975 430 402.950 440 412.925 450 412.900 460 422.875 470 422.850 480 432.825 490 442.800 500 442.775 510 452.750 520 462.725 530 462.700 540 472.675 550 472.650 560 482.625 570 492.600 580 492.575 590 502.550 600 502.525 610 512.500 620 522.475 630 522.450 640 532.425 650 532.400 660 542.375 670 552.350 680 562.325 690 562.300 700 572.275 710 582.250 720 592.225 730 602.200 740 612.175 750 612.150 760 622.125 770 632.100 780 642.075 790 652.050 800 662.025 810 672.000 820 & above 68 & above

DIVISION II COMPETITION SLIDING SCALE

Use for Division II beginning August 1, 2018 Core GPA SAT ACT Sum

Verbal and Math ONLY 3.300 & above 400 373.275 410 383.250 420 393.225 430 403.200 440 41 3.175 450 41 3.150 460 423.125 470 423.100 480 433.075 490 443.050 500 443.025 510 453.000 520 462.975 530 462.950 540 472.925 550 472.900 560 482.875 570 492.850 580 492.825 590 502.800 600 502.775 610 51 2.750 620 522.725 630 522.700 640 532.675 650 532.650 660 542.625 670 552.600 680 562.575 690 562.550 700 572.525 710 582.500 720 592.475 730 602.450 740 61 2.425 750 61 2.400 760 622.375 770 632.350 780 642.325 790 652.300 800 662.275 810 672.250 820 682.225 830 692.200 840 & above 70 & above

For more information, visit the NCAA Eligibility Center website at www.eligibilitycenter.org.

20

Become a Division III Student-Athlete

Information for prospective students athletes and parents

What Division III has to offer:

Division III athletics provides a well-rounded collegiate experience that involves a balance of rigorous

academics, competitive athletics, and the opportunity to pursue the multitude of other co-curricular and

extra-curricular opportunities offered on Division III campuses.

Division III playing season and eligibility standards minimize conflicts between athletics and academics,

allowing student-athletes to focus on their academic programs and the achievement of a degree.

Division III offers an intense and competitive athletics environment for student-athletes who play for the

love of the game, without the obligation of an athletics scholarship.

Division III athletics departments place special importance on the impact of athletics on the participants

rather than on the spectators. The student-athlete‟s experience is of paramount concern.

Division III athletics departments are dedicated to offering broad-based programs with a high number

and wide range of athletics participation opportunities for both men and women.

Division III places primary emphasis on regional in-season and conference competition, while also

offering 36 national championships annually.

Division III affords student-athletes the opportunity to discover valuable lessons in teamwork,

discipline, perseverance, and leadership, which in turn make student-athletes better students and

responsible citizens.

Division III features student-athletes who are subject to the same admission standards, academic

standards, housing, and support services as the general student body. The integration of athletics with

the larger institution enables student-athletes to experience all aspects of campus life.

Division III encourages student-athletes to take advantage of the many opportunities available to them,

both within and beyond athletics, so that they may develop their full potential as students, athletes, and

citizens.

21

The Fundamentals of Sportsmanship

Gain an understanding and appreciation for the rules of the contest

The necessity to be well informed is essential. Know the rules. If you are uninformed, refrain from expressing

opinions on officials, coaches, or administrative decisions. The spirit of GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP depends on

conformance to a rule‟s intent as well as to the letter of a given rule.

Exercise representative behavior at all times

A prerequisite to GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP requires one to understand his/her prejudices that may become a

factor in his/her behavior. The true value of interscholastic competition relies upon everyone exhibiting

behavior which is representative of a sound value base. A proper perspective must be maintained if the

educational values are to be realized. Your behavior influences others whether you are aware of it or not.

Recognize and appreciate skilled performances regardless of affiliation

Applause for an opponent‟s good performance displays generosity and is a courtesy that should be regularly

practiced. This not only represents GOOD SPORTSMANSHIP but reflects a true awareness of the game by

recognizing and acknowledging quality.

Exhibit respect for officials

The officials of any contest are impartial arbitrators who are trained and who perform to the best of their ability.

Mistakes by all involved in the contest are a part of the game. We should not rationalize our own poor or

unsuccessful performance or behavior by placing responsibility on an official. The rule of GOOD

SPORTSMANSHIP is to accept and abide by the decision made. This value is critical for students to learn for

later application in life.

Display openly a respect for the opponent at all times

Opponents are guests and should be treated cordially, provided with the best accommodations, and accorded

tolerance at all times.

Display pride in your actions at every opportunity

Never allow your ego to interfere with good judgment and your responsibility as a school representative.

Regardless of whether you are an adult, athlete, coach, or official, this value is paramount since it suggests that

you care about yourself and how others perceive you.

SPORTSMANSHIP:

THE ONLY MISSING PIECE IS YOU!

22

Roanoke City Public Schools SPORTS MEDICINE DEPARTMENT

To be completed by athletes in high school and middle school football

Patrick Henry HS William Fleming HS 2102 Grandin Road 3649 Ferncliff Ave., NW Roanoke, VA 24015 Roanoke, VA 24017 JEANNE M. BROWN, ATC, L. KENNETH J. HECK HEAD ATHLETIC TRAINER HEAD ATHLETIC TRAINER Office (540) 853-2158 Office (540) 853-2159 FAX (540) 853-1575 FAX (540) 563-1984 EMAIL: jebrown@rcps.info EMAIL: kheck@rcps.info

LAST NAME_______________________ FIRST NAME______________________ MI_____

DOB_______________ AGE__________ GRADE________ SPORT_____________________

ADDRESS & ZIP_____________________________________PHONE___________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN NAME____________________________________________________

PARENT/GUARDIAN PHONE(S) _________________________________________________

IN CASE OF EMERGENCY NOTIFY_________________________PHONE_________________

INSURANCE COMPANY AND POLICY#____________________________________________

MEDICAL HISTORY

PLEASE CIRCLE YES OR NO

1. Are you taking any medications? YES NO

2. Have you had any previous injuries? YES NO

3. Do you have any known allergies? YES NO

4. Do you have any medical condition that the trainer or physician should know about? YES NO

(USE THE BACK TO EXPLAIN ANY YES ANSWERS)

PERMISSION FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT

I________________ give my permission for the sports medicine staff to administer treatment. NOTE:

Treatment includes giving over the counter medications (Aleve, Advil, throat lozenges etc.) If you do not want

the sports medicine department to give OTC medications to your athlete, please check the space below:

__________DO NOT ADMINISTER OTC MEDICATIONS TO MY ATHLETE

EMERGENCY AUTHORIZATION

In the event I cannot be reached in an emergency, I hereby give permission to the physicians selected by the sports medicine department and/or staff of Patrick Henry High School to hospitalize, secure proper treatment

for and to order injections and/or surgery for the person named above.

PARENT SIGNATURE_____________________________________________DATE________________

23

24

ROANOKE CITY PUBLIC SCHOOLS 2016-2017

Athletic and Extracurricular Activities Policies Acknowledgement Form Please complete front and back of this document

Student Name (Print) Student Number Sport / Activity School To all students’ participation in extracurricular activities and their parents and/or guardians: The following policies will be in effect for the entire school year. Your signature indicates that you have been made aware of these policies and you agree to abide by them. This form is to be signed and returned to the Athletic Department or Activity Sponsor prior to participation in athletics or extracurricular activities.

A. I have read and understand the Roanoke City Public School Student and Parent Handbook and I agree to support the student behavior and discipline policies. I understand that all policies, rules and regulations which apply to students in school also apply while they are on the school bus and at school-sponsored activities. I understand that public transportation is a privilege which is provided as long as the rules are not abused.

B. (Athletes Only) I have been made aware, read and understand the Communication Plan, Player Code of Conduct, and Rules and

Regulations for Interscholastic Participation, which outline the protocol for communication with the coaching staff and administration.

(Football Only) Warning; Do not use this helmet to butt, ram or spear an opposing player. This is in violation of the football rules and

can result in severe head, brain or neck injury, paralysis or death to you and possible injury to your opponent. There is a risk these injuries

may also occur as a result of accidental contact without intent to butt, ram or spear. NO HELMET CAN PREVENT ALL SUCH INJURIES.

C. I understand that Roanoke City Public Schools will not tolerate the improper use of social media (which includes but is not limited to Twitter, Facebook, and cell phone/texting) for use of bullying, hazing, or sending/receiving inappropriate photos, videos or messages. Any of the aforementioned which are deemed to be detrimental to the reputation of Roanoke City Public Schools shall be subject to administrative actions. These types of behaviors may be deemed to be in violation of the Virginia High School League bona fide student in good standing rule, and may result in further disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from the team.

D. I understand that Roanoke City Public Schools will not tolerate any student use or possession of alcohol or drugs, including any type of tobacco product. As a student in Roanoke City Public Schools, I have read and understand the rules on drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use. Attendance at any social gathering where the aforementioned items are being consumed or possessed may lead to administrative action which may include dismissal from the team.

E. I understand that Roanoke City Public Schools will not tolerate any student engaging in hazing or bullying. RCPS policy defines hazing as

recklessly and intentionally endangering the health or safety of a student or students, or inflicting bodily harm on a student or students in connection with or for the purpose of initiation, admission into or affiliation with, or as a condition for, continued membership in a club, organization, association, fraternity, sorority, or student body, regardless of whether the student or students so endangered or injured participated voluntarily in the activity. The principal of any school at which the hazing causes bodily injury shall report the hazing incident to the local law enforcement. As a student of Roanoke City Public Schools, I have read and understand the rules on hazing and bullying.

Any use or possession of alcohol or drugs will result in immediate dismissal from any team, club, or organization (i.e., marching band, athletic teams, color guard, etc.) for the remainder of the season (fall, winter, or spring, as defined by the Virginia High School League calendar) in which the incident occurs, or for thirty (30) days, whichever is longer. The end of the season is defined as the last official contest, including postseason play. Individual team coaches or sponsors may impose additional consequences. Any hazing, bullying, inappropriate us of social media, or sending/receiving inappropriate photos, videos, or messages by students will also result in dismissal from any team, club or organization. I, (student name), have read and understand the above policies. I will choose actions that will be in compliance with the VHSL bona fide student in good standing rule and will not endanger the reputation of Roanoke City Public Schools Athletic and/or Activities programs.

Student Signature Date

Parent / Guardian Signature Date

25

Parent / Student-Athlete Concussion Information Sheet

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Even something that seems to be a mild bump or “getting your bell rung” can be serious. Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness. Student-athletes who have already had a concussion at some point in their lives are at an increased risk of another concussion. Young children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take longer to recover than adults. Signs and symptoms of a concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury. If a student-athlete reports one or more symptoms of concussion listed below, he/she should be kept out of play the day of the injury and until the following criteria are met: the student-athlete no longer exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion, at rest or with exertion; the student-athlete is asymptomatic during, or following periods of supervised exercise that is gradually intensifying; and the student-athlete receives a written medical release from a licensed health care provider.*

SIGNS OBSERVED BY COACHING STAFF SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY STUDENT-ATHLETE

Appears dazed and stunned Headache or pressure in head

Is confused about assignment of position Nausea or vomiting

Forgets an instruction Balance problems or dizziness

Is unsure of game, score, or opponent Double or blurry vision

Moves clumsily Sensitivity to light

Answers questions slowly Sensitivity to noise

Loses consciousness (even briefly) Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy

Shows mood, behavior or personality changes Concentration or memory problems

Can’t recall events prior to hit or fall Confusion

Can’t recall events after hit or fall Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”

A student-athlete should receive immediate medical attention if after a bump or blow; she/he exhibits any of the following danger signs:

One pupil is larger than the other Is drowsy or cannot be awakened

A headache that does not diminish and gets worse Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination

Repeated vomiting or nausea Slurred speech

Convulsions or seizures Cannot recognize people or places

Becomes increasingly confused, restless, agitated Has unusual behavior

Loses consciousness (even briefly)

Rest is a key factor to helping a student-athlete recover from a concussion. Exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing video games, may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse. After a concussion, returning to sports and school is a gradual process that should be carefully monitored by a health care provider.* Once the student-athlete is asymptomatic they begin the following progression of activity; as long as symptoms do not reappear the student-athlete continues with progression until fully cleared:

Phase 1 – Low impact activity, no resistance training (Ex. Stationary Bike or walking 10-20 minutes)

Phase 2 – Initiate aerobic activity fundamental to specific sport (Ex. Skating or running, may also begin progressive strength training activities)

Phase 3 – Begin non-contact sport specific drills (Ex. Dribbling, fielding, batting, etc.)

Phase 4 – Full Contact in a practice setting

Phase 5 – May return to practice or play if remains asymptomatic *The health care provider can be our team physician or our Certified Athletic Trainer

While a student-athlete’s brain is still healing, he/she is much more likely to have another concussion. Repeat concussions can increase the time it takes to recover. In rare cases, repeat concussions in young athletes can result in brain swelling or permanent damage to their brain. They can even be fatal. Student-Athlete Name Printed Student-Athlete Signature Date Parent / Guardian Name Printed Parent / Guardian Signature Date

26