New Brunswick Public Schools

ATHLETIC OBLIGATIONS

I UNDERSTAND THAT IN ORDER TO PARTICIPATE, I (students)/WE (parents/guardians) MUST: 1. Read and acknowledge the enclosed material provided by the New Brunswick Athletic Department, and give my

approval for participation. 2. Submit a complete HISTORY FORM and PHYSICAL EXAMINATION FORM given by a physician licensed to practice

medicine; or a HEALTH HISTORY UPDATE QUESTIONNAIRE, if a valid PHYSICAL EXAM is on file physical exam with the school.

3. Be eligible according to the NJSIAA and New Brunswick Public School rules. 4. Agree to obey all athletic eligibility rules and policies, including those pertaining to practice periods as established

by the coaches, and to conduct myself at all times in a manner in which reflects favorably on myself, my school, and my teammates.

5. Tryouts/Practices/Athletic Events will be held during school vacations and non-school days. All potential team members/roster athletes at all levels are to be in attendance. Missing any days will result in dismissal from the team unless the Head Coach has given prior approval.

RISK/INJURY POTENTIAL

Student - I have read ALL of the enclosed material and fully understand my responsibility to my team and to myself. I grant permission for school personnel to render necessary first aid and follow up care in the event of injury.

Parents - My son/daughter has read ALL of the enclosed material, fully understands his/her responsibilities, and has my permission to participate. I/We realize that such activity involves the potential for injury which is inherent in all sports, and acknowledge that even with the best coaching, use of the most advanced protective equipment, and strict observance of rules, injuries are still a possibility. On rare occasions these injuries can be so severe as to result in total disability, paralysis, or even death. I give school personnel permission to provide emergency care, as necessary, in the event of injury and follow up care as needed. I understand that the school assumes no responsibility in case an accident occurs.

Student athletes might be photographed for sports posters and/or sports schedule.

My son/daughter and I have read, understand and agree to the information contained within this packet including:

1. Athletic Obligations 2. New Brunswick Athletic Handbook 3. Student-Athlete & Parent Athletic

Contract 4. Need & Procedure for Proper

Hydration 5. Opioid Use & Misuse Educational

Fact Sheet & Sign-Off Sheet

6. NJSIAA Banned Drugs 7. Steroid Testing Consent 8. Concussion Information Sheet 9. Sudden Cardiac Death in Young

Athletes Pamphlet & Sign-Off Sheet 10. Sports-Related Eye Injury Pamphlet 11. Insurance Letter 12. Trainer Letter

In addition, my son/daughter and I have read, understand and agree to the information contained within the New Brunswick Athletic Handbook, which can be accessed at https://newbrunswick-ar.rschooltoday.com/. I hereby give my

consent for my son/daughter to compete in “NJSIAA SPORTS” and travel with the coach or school representative on any trips.

New Brunswick High School provides after school activity buses. All student-athletes are required to leave the school premises after practices/games by the next activity bus, unless involved in another school activity. Parents/Guardians must provide transportation for any student-athletes involved in any sport related activity after the last activity bus during regular school days, early dismissal days and any days the school is not in session.

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Note: The Handbook is an overview of rules and policies and is not meant to be reflective of all NJSIAA, Athletic Department, Team, and School policies, rules and regulations.

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New Brunswick High School

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS

New Brunswick High School Principal Ken Redler

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3001

Director of Athletics Craig Lowery

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3102 craig_lowery@nbpsnj.net

Athletic Secretary

Ianess Matias (732) 745-5300, Extension 3103

ianess_matias@nbpsnj.net

Play It Smart Academic Coaches Miguel Ulloa

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3059 miguel_ulloa@nbpsnj.net

Rafael Castillo

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3061 rafael_castillo@nbpsnj.net

Nathaniel Harris

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3229 nathaniel_harris@nbpsnj.net

Athletic Trainer John Caulfield

(732) 745-5300, Extension 3101

New Brunswick Nurse’s Office (732) 745-5300, Extension 3023, 3024

Athletic Calendar of Events: https://newbrunswick-ar.rschooltoday.com/

Directions to our away games can be found at www.NJSIAA.org

(Scroll down to the center of the home page for “High School directions/maps)

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Contents

STUDENT-ATHLETE AND PARENT ATHLETIC CONTRACT ............................................................................... 3

ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT ...................................................................................................................... 4

ATHLETE PERSONAL CONDUCT ..................................................................................................................... 4

ATHLETIC OFFERINGS .................................................................................................................................... 4

SPORTSMANSHIP .......................................................................................................................................... 4

SPORTS SEASONS .......................................................................................................................................... 5

CONFLICTING ACTIVITIES DURING SPORTS SEASON ..................................................................................... 6

ATHLETE INJURIES ......................................................................................................................................... 6

TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM ATHLETIC EVENTS .................................................................................. 6

SPORTS SCHEDULE WEBSITE ......................................................................................................................... 7

PHYSICALS ..................................................................................................................................................... 7

ATHLETIC ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY & 2.0 RULE ............................................................................................... 7

TRANSFERS .................................................................................................................................................... 8

SUMMER SCHOOL ......................................................................................................................................... 8

APPEALS ........................................................................................................................................................ 8

ACADEMIC PROBATION ................................................................................................................................ 9

PLAY IT SMART ............................................................................................................................................ 10

ATTENDANCE .............................................................................................................................................. 10

ATHLETE AGE ELIGIBILITY ............................................................................................................................ 11

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION & BULLYING (HIB) ...................................................................................... 11

NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY ............................................................................................................... 12

ATHLETIC EQUIPTMENT .............................................................................................................................. 11

SPORTS AWARDS CEREMONY ..................................................................................................................... 12

ATHLETIC AWARDS...................................................................................................................................... 12

NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE .............................................................................................................................. 13

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STUDENT-ATHLETE AND PARENT ATHLETIC CONTRACT I understand that representing New Brunswick High School in athletics is a privilege that carries certain responsibilities. I understand that being part of the athletic program requires following rules set forth by NBHS, your coach and the athletic department. Student-Athlete Expectations:

• Maintain my academic eligibility: • GPA OF 2.0 or higher • Attend and be on time to the study hall component of Play It Smart. • Fall and winter eligibility you must have earned 30 credits for grade 10-12 from the

previous year. • Spring eligibility of 15 credits for grades 9-12 from the current school year. • Uphold the highest level of academic integrity

• Conduct myself in a manner that reflects NBHS core values both in the classroom and the athletic arena. • Refrain from hazing, taunting, or physical confrontations with opponents, and teammates. • Attend all practices and games as scheduled by the coaching staff and Athletic Director. • Practice hard and work to the best of my ability at all times. • Refrain from drug, alcohol or tobacco use. • Treat my coaches, teachers, teammates, classmates and opponents with respect. • Follow all rules and regulations outlined by NBHS student and activities handbook as well as those expectations discussed with your coach. • Refrain from actions which would bring discredit to myself, my team, my family and my school. • Maintain regular and consistent attendance and abide by all requirements of the school attendance policy. • Any form of visible demonstration must be approved in advance by the Athletic Director and/or Principal. • I understand that failure to uphold this contract may result in failure of your varsity letter status or team status.

Parent/Guardian Expectations: • I shall show respect and positive support for coaches and officials, prior, during and after the game. • I will demonstrate respect and support for all players prior, during and after the game. • I will be mindful of my role at all times, provide support, not openly instruct during the game. • I will participate in cheers that support, encourage and uplift the teams involved. • I understand that school athletics is an extension of the classroom, offering learning experiences for the student-athletes. • I understand the spirit of fair play and the good sportsmanship expected by our school, our conference and the NJSIAA.

_______________________ _______________________ _______________________ (Print Parent Name) (Signature) (Date) _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ (Print Athletes Name) (Signature) (Date) You are responsible for all information that is published in the Athletic Handbook.

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ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT

All student-athletes participating in the high school interscholastic athletic programs are held to the

highest standard of character and sportsmanship. Your participation in athletics is a privilege and should

be treated as such. Any time you wear the blue and white, you are representing yourself, your family,

your school and all those that have worn these colors before you. Your behavior should be above

reproach in all areas. Students, staff, parents, and the community will closely observe your conduct.

ATHLETE PERSONAL CONDUCT

As an athlete, pride in your school, team and yourself is all part of good sportsmanship. Your pride is

reflected in your personal conduct. Student athletes will not violate the rules of common decency with

each other. They shall respect the authority of coaches and other school staff and shall conform to

requests made by them. Student-athletes are expected to dress properly when representing their team

and school at any athletic or academic function.

ATHLETIC OFFERINGS

Fall Winter Spring

Football Basketball (B/G) Track (B/G)

Soccer (B/G) Track (B/G) Baseball (B)

Cross Country (B/G) Wrestling Softball (G)

Girls Tennis Bowling (B/G) Boys Tennis

Volleyball (G) Cheerleading Golf

Cheerleading

SPORTSMANSHIP

The ideal of sportsmanship permeates virtually every aspect of our culture. The ethic of fair play may be

witnessed in all facets of life. However, its origin has been firmly established in sports as conceptually

and pragmatically a training ground for good citizenship and high behavioral standards. The NJSIAA and

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the Greater Middlesex Conference are committed to fair play, graciousness toward an opponent, and a

genuine concern and respect for others. (From the NJSIAA Sportsmanship booklet.)

There will be NO TOLERANCE for negative statements or actions between players and coaches. This

includes taunting, baiting, berating opponents, “trash-talking” or actions which ridicule or cause

embarrassment to them. Any verbal, written or physical conduct related to race, gender, ethnicity,

disability, sexual orientation or religion shall not be tolerated, and could subject the violator to ejection,

and may result in penalties being assessed against your team. If such comments are heard, a penalty will

be assessed immediately.

SPORTS SEASONS

The NJSIAA Constitution, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations have for all intents and purposes defined the 12 month sequence of participation in the following manner: (A) In Season (B) Out-of-Season (C) Summer Recess

(A) IN-SEASON

Athletes are able to participate on their desired sport team within the following datelines:

Fall..........................................August to November

Winter....................................November to March

Spring...................………………..First Friday in March to June

(B) OUT-OF-SEASON

During this period, athletes may not be involved in intramurals in which they have attained team status.

Open gym and recreation participation are permitted for players as long as their coaches are not

present.

Camp/clinic participation is permitted for players provided their coaches are not involved. Athletes may

participate in local community sponsored recreation programs as long as their coaches are not involved.

Athletes may be involved with a non-school team with the approval of their school.

(C) SUMMER RECESS

Practice sessions during the summer recess period may be conducted by schools. Athletes are permitted

to participate in any school sponsored practices but participation is not required.

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During the summer recess period, an athlete may not be sponsored or supported by a school or school

related group (Booster Club) when team-interscholastic or individual competition takes place as part of

the activity in camps, clinics or recreation programs.

The first school day following the last NJSIAA spring championships to the first day of the next school

term, all restrictions are rescinded for practice for all sports. Schools may issue any and all equipment

for practice use during the summer recess and the local school district may determine to what extent

the school, the coaches, and the students are to be involved in the “summer recess” program. Athletes

and coaches may participate at their own individual risk.

CONFLICTING ACTIVITIES DURING SPORTS SEASON

Prior to the start of any season, an athlete must realize his/her obligation to the team and refrain from

scheduling any conflicting activity during that season.

ATHLETE INJURIES

Any athlete, who sustains an injury during a school related athletic activity, must report it to his/her

coach IMMEDIATELY, which in turn will report it to the Athletic Trainer. The Athletic Trainer will then be

responsible for providing this information to the school nurse. If any injury occurs outside of school it

must be reported to the coach prior to the athlete’s next practice or game.

TRANSPORTATION TO AND FROM ATHLETIC EVENTS

No student-athlete is permitted to use personal transportation to or from any away athletic event.

Official school transportation will be provided, originating at the school and returning back to the

school. In a family emergency this rule will be waived as long as prior approval is given by the director of

athletics and transportation request form has been completed by parent/guardian. The convenience of

a parent/guardian or student does not constitute “extenuating circumstances.”

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SPORTS SCHEDULE WEBSITE

Log on to http://www.greatermiddlesexconference.org/public/genie/343/school/20/ for both daily and

seasonal information. Changes in schedule are inevitable. Every effort is made to update information on

a daily basis. Normally, changes are listed as cancellations or postponements. In the case of the latter,

the postponed date is the newly rescheduled date. A cancellation will appear only as a new date if

rescheduled. Check back often for the most up-to- date information.

PHYSICALS

New Brunswick School District requires online registration, via https://newbrunswick-

ar.rschooltoday.com/, be completed by the parent and student for each sport in which the student

participates. It is the family’s responsibility to access the registration forms and submit them on time.

Physicals will be offered in the district during the months of June, August and September. Dates are to

be determined. If the student-athlete fails to get a physical during the time offered in district, they must

obtain a private physical at their own expense. The state mandates that these physicals must take place

no longer than 1 year from the end of that particular sport season. Updated physicals must be turned

into the nurses’ office.

STUDENT WILL NOT BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE UNTIL CLEARED BY THE NURSES AND THE DISTRICT MEDICAL EXAMINER.

ATHLETIC ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY & 2.0 RULE

The New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association Rules and Regulations regarding eligibility are

mandatory. In addition, the New Brunswick Board of Education has adopted the following guidelines for

students participating in all school athletics.

Fall/Winter Seasons:

• All first year 9th grade student-athletes are eligible.

All other student-athletes must:

• Have a previous YEARLY GPA of 2.0

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• Meet NJSIAA credit requirements o Fall/Winter Season – 30 credits earned during prior school year

Spring Seasons: All student-athletes, at the end of the first academic semester of each year, must meet the following requirements:

• Earn 15 credits • Have a previous YEARLY GPA of 2.0 (10th- 12th Grade ONLY)

Students shall be eligible for high school athletics for eight consecutive semesters beginning when the

student originally started ninth grade, as long as all eligibility requirements are met. Students should

contact the Athletic Office with any questions about eligibility.

Student-athletes with IEP’s will be determined on a case by case basis with help from the Child Study

Team.

These academic requirements will apply to all student managers, student trainers, and athletes.

Additional information regarding eligibility can be obtained upon request from the Director of Athletics.

TRANSFERS

Student-athlete transcripts will be evaluated by the Guidance Department with the Athletic Director to

determine eligibility. The Athletic Director will determine if an appeal is needed on a case by case basis.

Guidance, the Director of Athletics and the Principal will discuss and evaluate any disputes.

SUMMER SCHOOL

A student-athlete, who is below a YEARLY 2.0 GPA at the end of the academic school year, may have the

opportunity to apply and attend summer school to achieve academic eligibility. ONLY IF HE OR SHE HAS

FAILED A SUBJECT.

APPEALS

Any student-athlete not meeting the eligibility requirement of a YEARLY GPA of 2.0 may appeal through

the Athletic Director.

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There is no appeal for lack of credits for NJSIAA. Students are allowed to appeal once during their high

school career.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

If the student-athlete gains eligibility through appeals, it shall be with academic probation for the

current academic year. Any student-athlete who is placed on probation must sign a commitment

contract to fulfill the following requirements including but are not limited to:

1. 100% attendance everyday (Monday – Thursday) in study hall.

2. Attendance at all academic monitoring meetings with their Academic Coach is required.

3. Attendance at all practices for in-season athletes is required.

4. Sit out of 20% of all regular season athletic competitions.

5. Student-athletes not making academic progress and/or presenting inappropriate

behavior/attendance issues in school may be deemed ineligible for participation by the

Principal and/or the Athletic Director.

6. Prior approval of any absence, based upon written and submitted documentation and/or

telephone call, specific to any exceptions.

A student-athlete who does not fulfill his or her probation obligations will be deemed ineligible and the

student and his/her parent/guardian will be soon notified in writing by the Athletic Director.

While on full year academic probation if a student does not finish the year with a YEARLY GPA of 2.0

they will be deemed ineligible for the following year.

A student-athlete, who has met the minimum academic requirements (previous YEARLY 2.0 GPA

requirement) at the start of the school year, can be placed on probation if student has the equivalent of

2 ‘F’s’ as a marking period report card grade in any subject. The student-athlete may be removed from

probation with academic progress the following marking period.

Any student-athlete who has poor attendance and/or inappropriate behavior may be considered for

probation by the Principal and/or Athletic Director.

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PLAY IT SMART

The Play It Smart program places “Academic Coaches” in the high school to help monitor and plan a

student’s academic goals and progress. Play It Smart has outlined major points to provide all with a

clear understanding of the procedures:

• I understand that study hall is mandatory Monday-Thursday (in-season athletes only), Tuesday-

Thursday (out-of-season athletes) and Monday-Thursday (athletes on academic probation).

Study hall runs from Sept.-June. I understand that Play It Smart is year-round, even if I only

participate in one sport. I will follow all rules set by Play It Smart.

• I will be respectful and represent Play It Smart to the best of my ability. This includes: in the

classroom, in study hall, at practice, games, and meets, and towards my teammates,

coaches/teachers, and Academic Coach.

• I will be an active PARTICIPANT in Play It Smart activities including:

o Community Service opportunities

o Field Trips/Team-Building Workshops

o Study hall

o Team and Parent meetings

o One-on-one meetings with my Academic Coach

I understand that as a member of New Brunswick Athletics, I am a member of Play It Smart. I

understand that I cannot be a participant on the team without being a participant in Play It Smart and

abiding by the above stated rules.

ATTENDANCE Attendance at all study hall sessions, practices, scrimmages, meetings and games is expected of all

student-athletes. Your son or daughter's participation in athletics requires commitment by both him/her

and you. Practices and games are scheduled throughout nearly ALL school vacations, although the exact

schedules vary from sport to sport. At the beginning of the season, coaches will distribute practice and

game schedules outlining all required days.

When your son or daughter makes the commitment to athletics, he or she also makes a commitment to

his or her teammates. Failure to live up to these commitments will result in consequences as outlined by

the coach(es).

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No student-athlete will be penalized at all for missed games or practices due to religious reasons.

Excused absences must be cleared with the coach(es) in advance.

A student who arrives at school after 8:00 AM but before 9:40 AM is considered tardy. If a student has

not signed in before 9:40 AM (on a regular school day), he/she is considered absent and therefore is not

eligible to participate or practice in athletic events for that day. In cases where the event is scheduled

on a Saturday, school attendance on Friday is mandatory in order for a student to participate in that

event.

Any athlete who is suspended (ISS or OSS) shall not be allowed to participate in any athletic activity,

game, or practice during the period of suspension.

ATHLETE AGE ELIGIBILITY

A student cannot participate if he/she has reached the age of 19 prior to September 1st of the current

school year.

A student who by age is eligible at the beginning of the school year shall be allowed to finish that year

unless declared ineligible for academic or administrative reasons.

DISQUALIFICATION FROM ATHLETIC EVENT

Any athlete disqualified from an interscholastic event will be suspended as per the NJSIAA and the New

Brunswick rules. The athlete will be disqualified from the next three regularly scheduled games/meets,

with the exception of football, which will carry a two game disqualification.

Any spectator ejected for inappropriate behavior from an athletic event will be prohibited from

attending the next two events at a minimum. Further consequences may be determined by school

administration.

HARASSMENT, INTIMIDATION & BULLYING (HIB)

The New Brunswick High School Board of Education prohibits acts of harassment, intimidation, or

bullying of a student. HIB, like other disruptive or violent behaviors, is conduct that disrupts both a

pupil’s ability to learn and a school’s ability to educate its pupils in a safe and disciplined environment.

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Our school environment includes our athletic teams. It is important to note these activities, whether

they occur in or outside of school, can cause mental, emotional, and/or physical harm. These actions can

include, but are not limited to:

• Written and/or Verbal harassment

• Physical harassment/assault

• Gesture

• Electronic Communication

As stated earlier, participation on our teams is privilege, not a right. New Brunswick prides itself on a

tradition of good sportsmanship and will not tolerate any behavior contrary to those beliefs. To read the

entire HIB policy, please visit our school website at http://www.nbpschools.net/Parents/-HIB-

Information.

Hazing is one form of HIB. Hazing is any ritual or activity involving harassment; abuse or humiliation used

as a way of initiating a person into a group or remain in a group. Any student found to be involved in

hazing activities will be immediately and permanently removed from athletic participation. Permission,

consent or assumption of risk by the victim does not lessen the prohibition of our policy. Retaliation

against anyone who assists in the investigation of a HIB incident is prohibited and can result in

disciplinary action and/or removal from athletic participation.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE

If a student is under the influence or in possession of drugs/alcohol and/or drug paraphernalia it will

result in:

A. First offense - A three (3) week suspension from all athletic activities (practices and games) and

all extracurricular activities, to be reinstated at the discretion of the core team.

B. Second offense - Dismissal from the current season and from all interscholastic activities for a

calendar year from the day of incident.

NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY

In accordance with Executive Order 72, issued by the Governor of the State of New Jersey, Richard J.

Codey, on December 20, 2005, the NJSIAA will test a random selection of student athletes, who have

qualified, as individuals or as members of a team, for state championship competition.

1. General prohibition against performance enhancing drugs.

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A. It shall be considered a violation of the NJSIAA’s sportsmanship rule for any student-

athlete to possess, ingest, or otherwise use any substance on the list of banned

substances, without a written prescription by a fully licensed physician, as

recognized by the American Medical Association to treat a medical condition.

B. Violations found as a result of NJSIAA”s testing shall be penalized in accordance with

this policy.

C. Violations found as a member school testing shall be penalized in accordance with

the school’s policy.

2. List of banned substances:

Information on NJSIAA banned substances can be found on the NJSIAA website, here:

http://www.njsiaa.org/documents/banned-substance-list

3. Parent/Student Consent form:

Before participating in interscholastic sports, the student-athlete and the student-

athlete’s parent or guardian shall consent to random testing by signing up their

student/athlete on the Family ID website in accordance with this policy.

4. Selection of athletes to be tested:

A. Tested athletes will be selected randomly from all of those athletes participating in

championship competition.

B. Sixty percent of all tests shall be from football, wrestling, track & field, swimming,

lacrosse, and baseball. The remaining forty percent of all tests shall be from all other

NJSIAA sports.

5. Administration of tests:

Tests shall be administered by a certified laboratory, selected by the Executive Director

and approved by the Executive Committee.

ATHLETIC EQUIPTMENT

If equipment is lost or not returned at the conclusion of the season, fine slips will be issued. Athletic

equipment used by student participants must be returned or paid for at the end of the sport season and

prior to the issuance of any awards or recognition. Equipment will not be issued for any upcoming

season until all equipment accounts are cleared from the preceding season. Payment of fines will be

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made directly to the athletic department office. Seniors with outstanding fines will not be permitted to

participate in graduation ceremonies until accounts are cleared.

SPORTS AWARDS CEREMONY

We celebrate all sports teams at the end of the year with an awards ceremony where all athletes receive

a certificate and various awards. Athletes are expected to attend, and family members and guests are

invited to join us for this special evening. Athletes will receive an invitation announcing the date and

time of the ceremony. Athletes are expected to dress appropriately.

ATHLETIC AWARDS

Awards are to be considered a privilege. They, therefore, can be revoked or recalled.

To be considered for a team award presented by the coach, a student must:

• Display upright conduct and a spirit of fair play at all times.

• Exhibit respect for school personnel, coaches, game officials, and opponents.

• Not violate the NJSIAA Drug and Alcohol Policy

• Return all equipment at the completion of the season

• Meet criteria established by the coach.

• Finish the season as a member in good standing on his/her team, which includes being academically

eligible.

VARSITY LETTER: Receiving a varsity letter for programs that are composed of a Varsity and a JV teams

or programs that have a Varsity, JV, and Freshman teams is an honor reserved for those student athletes

who have demonstrated excellence in performance and the commitment and sacrifice appropriate for

membership on a varsity team. Students who are on the varsity team for fifty percent of the season and

complete the season shall receive a varsity letter, as long as they have excellent attendance, work ethic

and not have violated the NJSIAA Chemical Health Rule. The standard for receiving a varsity letter for

programs that only have one team will be determined by the coach.

CERTIFICATE: Athletes who do not receive a varsity letter, but have excellent attendance and work ethic,

and have not violated the NJSIAA Chemical Health Rule will be awarded a Certificate to acknowledge

their contribution.

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MANAGER LETTER: As an integral, non-playing member of a team, managers may also be recognized for

the valuable role they play. In order to be considered, managers must:

• Adhere to all general rules and regulations of athletes.

• Fulfill all the duties as outlined by the coach.

• Adhere to all rules and regulations that bind student athletes.

NCAA CLEARINGHOUSE

Division I or II colleges require high school athletes to register with the NCAA Eligibility Center if they

plan to participate in college athletics. For more information go to:

www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future, or contact the Play It Smart Academic Coaches

New Brunswick Public Schools

STUDENT-ATHLETE AND PARENT ATHLETIC CONTRACT I understand that representing New Brunswick High School in athletics is a privilege that carries certain responsibilities. I understand that being part of the athletic program requires following rules set forth by NBHS, your coach and the athletic department. Student-Athlete Expectations: • Maintain my academic eligibility:

• GPA OF 2.0 or higher • Attend and be on time to the study hall component of Play It Smart. • Fall and winter eligibility you must have earned 30 credits for grade 10-12 from the previous year. • Spring eligibility of 15 credits for grades 9-12 from the current school year. • Uphold the highest level of academic integrity

• Conduct myself in a manner that reflects NBHS core values both in the classroom and the athletic arena. • Refrain from hazing, taunting, or physical confrontations with opponents, and teammates. • Attend all practices and games as scheduled by the coaching staff and Athletic Director. • Practice hard and work to the best of my ability at all times. • Refrain from drug, alcohol or tobacco use. • Treat my coaches, teachers, teammates, classmates and opponents with respect. • Follow all rules and regulations outlined by NBHS student and activities handbook as well as those expectations

discussed with your coach. • Refrain from actions which would bring discredit to myself, my team, my family and my school. • Maintain regular and consistent attendance and abide by all requirements of the school attendance policy. • Any form of visible demonstration must be approved in advance by the Athletic Director and/or Principal. • I understand that failure to uphold this contract may result in failure of your varsity letter status or team status. Parent/Guardian Expectations: • I shall show respect and positive support for coaches and officials, prior, during and after the game. • I will demonstrate respect and support for all players prior, during and after the game. • I will be mindful of my role at all times, provide support, not openly instruct during the game. • I will participate in cheers that support, encourage and uplift the teams involved. • I understand that school athletics is an extension of the classroom, offering learning experiences for the student-

athletes. • I understand the spirit of fair play and the good sportsmanship expected by our school, our conference and the

NJSIAA. _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ (Print Parent Name) (Signature) (Date) _______________________ _______________________ _______________________ (Print Athletes Name) (Signature) (Date) You are responsible for all information that is published in the Athletic Handbook.

New Brunswick Public Schools

Proper Hydration Information

Parents and athletes: Adequate hydration is CRITICAL to performance, stamina, recovery from injury as well as general well-being. Typical adolescent boys and girls are 70% and 60% water by weight.

Hydration Rules 1. Hydrate hours and days before you need it. 2. Hydrate often -- before, during and after exercise. 3. Water and sports drinks are fine before and during exercise. 4. Avoid carbonated drinks since they may promote dehydration. 5. Your thirst does NOT equal your body’s need to replenish fluids. You need more than your thirst indicates. 6. It is essential for every teenager to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day while athletes need about 1- 12oz

bottle for each pound sweated off.

Signs of Dehydration 1. Dehydration is cumulative. Do not fall behind with replenishing fluids. 2. Signs include muscle cramps, headache, fatigue, continued weight loss, vomiting and lethargy. Darker than

usual urine indicates possible dehydration. 3. Monitor your weight. Each day you should return to 90-95% of yesterday’s amount. Rapid weight loss is water,

not body fat.

Remember: Proper hydration begins at home Come to practice well hydrated and go to bed well hydrated It is easier to stay ahead of dehydration than to catch up.

School athletics can serve an integral role in students’ development. In addition to providing healthy forms of exercise, school athleticsfoster friendships and camaraderie, promote sportsmanship and fair play, and instill the value of competition. Unfortunately, sports activities may also lead to injury and, in rare cases, result in pain that is severe or long-lasting enough to require aprescription opioid painkiller.1 It is important to understand that overdoses from opioids are on the rise and are killing Americans of allages and backgrounds. Families and communities across the country are coping with the health, emotional and economic effects ofthis epidemic.2

This educational fact sheet, created by the New Jersey Department of Education as required by state law (N.J.S.A. 18A:40-41.10),provides information concerning the use and misuse of opioid drugs in the event that a health care provider prescribes a student-athlete or cheerleader an opioid for a sports-related injury. Student-athletes and cheerleaders participating in an interscholastic sportsprogram (and their parent or guardian, if the student is under age 18) must provide their school district written acknowledgment oftheir receipt of this fact sheet.

What Are Some Ways Opioid Use andMisuse Can Be Prevented?

Keeping Student-Athletes Safe

In some cases, student-athletes are prescribed these medications. According to research, about a third of young people studiedobtained pills from their own previous prescriptions (i.e., an unfinished prescription used outside of a physician’s supervision),and 83 percent of adolescents had unsupervised access to their prescription medications.3 It is important for parents tounderstand the possible hazard of having unsecured prescription medications in their households. Parents should alsounderstand the importance of proper storage and disposal of medications, even if they believe their child would not engage innon-medical use or diversion of prescription medications.

According to the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, 12 percent of male athletes and 8 percent of femaleathletes had used prescription opioids in the 12-month period studied.3 In the early stages of abuse, the athlete may exhibitunprovoked nausea and/or vomiting. However, as he or she develops a tolerance to the drug, those signs will diminish.Constipation is not uncommon, but may not be reported. One of the most significant indications of a possible opioid addiction isan athlete’s decrease in academic or athletic performance, or a lack of interest in his or her sport. If these warning signs arenoticed, best practices call for the student to be referred to the appropriate professional for screening,4 such as provided throughan evidence-based practice to identify problematic use, abuse and dependence on illicit drugs (e.g., Screening, BriefIntervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)) offered through the New Jersey Department of Health.

According to the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) Sports MedicalAdvisory Committee chair, John P. Kripsak, D.O., “Studies indicate that about 80 percent of heroinusers started out by abusing narcotic painkillers.”The Sports Medical Advisory Committee, which includes representatives of NJSIAA member schools as well as expertsin the field of healthcare and medicine, recommends the following: The pain from most sports-related injuries can be managed with non-narcotic medications such as acetaminophen, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin. Read the label carefully and always take therecommended dose, or follow your doctor’s instructions. More is not necessarily better when taking an over-the-counter(OTC) pain medication, and it can lead to dangerous side effects.4

Ice therapy can be utilized appropriately as an anesthetic. Always discuss with your physician exactly what is being prescribed for pain and request to avoid narcotics. In extreme cases, such as severe trauma or post-surgical pain, opioid pain medication should not be prescribed for morethan five days at a time;

Parents or guardians should always control the dispensing of pain medications and keep them in a safe, non-accessiblelocation; and

Unused medications should be disposed of immediately upon cessation of use. Ask your pharmacist about drop-off locationsor home disposal kits like Deterra or Medsaway.

How Do Athletes Obtain Opioids?

According to NJSIAA Sports Medical Advisory Committee chair,

John P. Kripsak, D.O., “Studies indicate that about 80 percent of

heroin users started out by abusing narcotic painkillers.”

What Are Signs of Opioid Use?

EDUCATIONAL FACT SHEETOPIOID USE AND MISUSE

There are two kinds of sports injuries. Acute injuries happen suddenly, such asa sprained ankle or strained back. Chronic injuries may happen after someoneplays a sport or exercises over a long period of time, even when applyingoveruse-preventative techniques.5

Athletes should be encouraged to speak up about injuries, coaches should besupported in injury-prevention decisions, and parents and young athletes areencouraged to become better educated about sports safety.6

Half of all sports medicine injuries in children and teens are from overuse. An overuse injury is damage to a bone, muscle, ligament, or tendoncaused by repetitive stress without allowing time for the body to heal. Children and teens are at increased risk for overuse injuries becausegrowing bones are less resilient to stress. Also, young athletes may not know that certain symptoms are signs of overuse.

The best way to deal with sports injuries is to keep them from happening in the first place. Here are some recommendations to consider:

Resources for Parents and Students on Preventing Substance Misuse and Abuse

PREPARE Obtain the preparticipation physical evaluation prior toparticipation on a school-sponsored interscholastic or intramuralathletic team or squad.

PLAY SMART Try a variety of sports and consider specializing inone sport before late adolescence to help avoid overuse injuries.

TRAINING Increase weekly training time, mileage or repetitions nomore than 10 percent per week. For example, if running 10 miles oneweek, increase to 11 miles the following week. Athletes should alsocross-train and perform sport-specific drills in different ways, such asrunning in a swimming pool instead of only running on the road.

ADEQUATE HYDRATION Keep the body hydrated to help the heartmore easily pump blood to muscles, which helps muscles workefficiently.

REST UP Take at least one day off per week from organized activity torecover physically and mentally. Athletes should take a combinedthree months off per year from a specific sport (may be dividedthroughout the year in one-month increments). Athletes may remainphysically active during rest periods through alternative low-stressactivities such as stretching, yoga or walking.

CONDITIONING Maintain a good fitness level during the season andoffseason. Also important are proper warm-up and cooldownexercises.

PROPER EQUIPMENT Wear appropriate and properly fitted protective equipment such as pads (neck, shoulder, elbow, chest, knee, and shin), helmets,mouthpieces, face guards, protective cups, and eyewear. Do not assume that protective gear will prevent all injuries while performing more dangerousor risky activities.

The following list provides some examples of resources:National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence – NJ promotes addiction treatment and recovery.New Jersey Department of Health, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services is committed to providing consumers and families with a wellness andrecovery-oriented model of care.New Jersey Prevention Network includes a parent’s quiz on the effects of opioids.Operation Prevention Parent Toolkit is designed to help parents learn more about the opioid epidemic, recognize warning signs, and open lines of communication withtheir children and those in the community.Parent to Parent NJ is a grassroots coalition for families and children struggling with alcohol and drug addiction.Partnership for a Drug Free New Jersey is New Jersey’s anti-drug alliance created to localize and strengthen drug-prevention media efforts to prevent unlawful druguse, especially among young people. The Science of Addiction: The Stories of Teens shares common misconceptions about opioids through the voices of teens.Youth IMPACTing NJ is made up of youth representatives from coalitions across the state of New Jersey who have been impacting their communities and peers byspreading the word about the dangers of underage drinking, marijuana use, and other substance misuse.

References

An online version of this fact sheet is available on the New Jersey Department of Education’s Alcohol, Tobacco, and Other Drug Usewebpage.Updated Jan. 30, 2018.

Even With Proper Training and Prevention, Sports Injuries May Occur

Number of Injuries Nationally in 2012 Among Athletes 19 and Under from 10 Popular Sports

(Based on data from U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's National Electronic Injury Surveillance System)

What Are Some Ways to Reduce the Risk of Injury?7

1 Massachusetts Technical Assistance Partnershipfor Prevention

2 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention3 New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic

Association (NJSIAA) Sports Medical AdvisoryCommittee (SMAC)

4 Athletic Management, David Csillan, athletictrainer, Ewing High School, NJSIAA SMAC

5 National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletaland Skin Diseases

6 USA TODAY7 American Academy of Pediatrics

StAtE of NEw JERSEy

dEPARtMENt of EduCAtIoN

In consultation withStAtE of NEw JERSEy

dEPARtMENt of HEAltHNJSIAA SPoRtS MEdICAl

AdvISoRy CoMMIttEE

Karan ChauhanParsippany Hills High School,

Permanent Student Representative New Jersey State Board of Education

Football

394,3

50

Basketball

389,6

10

Soccer

172,4

70

Baseball

119,8

10

Softb

all58,21

0

Volleyball

43,19

0

Wrestling

40,75

0

Cheerle

ading

37,77

0

Gymnastics

28,30

0

Track a

nd Field

24,91

0

SOURCE: USA TODAY (Janet Loehrke) Survey of Emergency Room Visits

New Brunswick Public Schools

Use and Misuse of Opioid Drugs Fact Sheet

Student-Athlete and Parent/Guardian Sign-Off

In accordance with N.J.S.A. 18A:40-41.10, public school districts, approved private schools for students with disabilities, and nonpublic schools participating in an interscholastic sports program must distribute this Opioid Use and Misuse Educational Fact Sheet to all student-athletes and cheerleaders. In addition, schools and districts must obtain a signed acknowledgement of receipt of the fact sheet from each student-athlete and cheerleader, and for students under age 18, the parent or guardian must also sign.

This sign-off sheet is due to the appropriate school personnel as determined by your district prior to the first official practice session of the spring 2018 athletic season (March 2, 2018, as determined by the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association) and annually thereafter prior to the student-athlete’s or cheerleader’s first official practice of the school year.

Name of School: New Brunswick High School

Name of School District (if applicable): New Brunswick Public Schools

I/We acknowledge that we received and reviewed the Educational Fact Sheet on the Use and Misuse of Opioid Drugs.

_______________________________________________ Student Signature _______________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature (also needed if student is under age 18) _______________ Date

1Does not include athletic clubs or intramural events.

2017-18 NJSIAA Banned Drugs IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH THE APPROPRIATE OR DESIGNATED ATHLETICS STAFF BEFORE USING ANY SUBSTANCE

The NJSIAA bans the following classes of drugs:

Stimulants Anabolic Agents Alcohol and Beta Blockers Diuretics and Other Masking Agents Street Drugs Peptide Hormones and Analogues Anti-estrogens Beta-2 Agonists

Note: Any substance chemically related to these classes is also banned.

THE INSTITUTION AND THE STUDENT-ATHLETE SHALL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR ALL DRUGS WITHIN THE BANNED DRUG CLASS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THEY HAVE BEEN SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFIED. Drugs and Procedures Subject to Restrictions

Blood Doping Gene Doping Local Anesthetics (under some conditions) Manipulation of Urine Samples Beta-2 Agonists permitted only by prescription and inhalation

NJSIAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning

Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product with the appropriate or designated athletics department staff!

Dietary supplements, including vitamins and minerals, are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test result.

Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility using dietary supplements. Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs not listed on the label. Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk.

NOTE TO STUDENT-ATHLETES: THERE IS NO COMPLETE LIST OF BANNED SUBSTANCES. DO NOT RELY ON THIS LIST TO RULE OUT ANY SUPPLEMENT INGREDIENT. CHECK WITH YOUR ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT STAFF PRIOR TO USING A SUPPLEMENT. REMINDER: ANY DIETARY SUPPLEMENT INGREDIENT IS TAKEN AT THE STUDENT’S OWN RISK.

Some Examples of NJSIAA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class Do NOT RELY ON THIS LIST TO RULE OUT ANY LABEL INGREDIENT.

Stimulants Amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine; methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine (bitter orange); methylhexaneamine, “bath salts” (mephedrone); Octopamine; DMBA; etc. exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned.

Anabolic Agents (sometimes listed as a chemical formula, such as 3,6,17-androstenetrione) Androstenedione; boldenone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto); epi-trenbolone; etiocholanolone; methasterone; methandienone; nandrolone; norandrostenedione; ostarine, stanozolol; stenbolone; testosterone; trenbolone; SARMS (ostarine); etc.

Alcohol and Beta Blockers Alcohol; atenolol; metoprolol; nadolo; pindolol; propranolol; timolol; etc.

Diuretics (water pills) and Other Masking Agents Bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene; trichlormethiazide; etc.

Street Drugs Heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); synthetic cannabinoids (eg. spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073)

Peptide Hormones and Analogues Growth hormone (hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc.

Anti-Estrogens Anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; ATD, clomiphene; SERMS (nolvadex); etc.

Beta-2 Agonists Bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; higenamine; norcuclaurine; etc.

ANY SUBSTANCE THAT IS CHEMICALLY RELATED TO THE CLASS, EVEN IF IT IS NOT LISTED AS AN EXAMPLE, IS ALSO BANNED! IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO

CHECK WITH THE APPROPRIATE OR DESIGNATED ATHLETICS STAFF BEFORE USING ANY SUBSTANCE.

1161 Route 130, P.O. Box 487, Robbinsville, NJ 08691 609-259-2776 609-259-3047-Fax

NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY

CONSENT TO RANDOM TESTING

In Executive Order 72, issued December 20, 2005, Governor Richard Codey directed the New Jersey Department of Education to work in conjunction with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) to develop and implement a program of random testing for steroids, of teams and individuals qualifying for championship games. Beginning in the Fall, 2006 sports season, any student-athlete who possesses, distributes, ingests or otherwise uses any of the banned substances on the attached page, without written prescription by a fully-licensed physician, as recognized by the American Medical Association, to treat a medical condition, violates the NJSIAA’s sportsmanship rule, and is subject to NJSIAA penalties, including ineligibility from competition. The NJSIAA will test certain randomly selected individuals and teams that qualify for a state championship tournament or state championship competition for banned substances. The results of all tests shall be considered confidential and shall only be disclosed to the student, his or her parents and his or her school. No student may participate in NJSIAA competition unless the student and the student’s parent/guardian consent to random testing. By signing below, we consent to random testing in accordance with the NJSIAA steroid testing policy. We understand that, if the student or the student’s team qualifies for a state championship tournament or state championship competition, the student may be subject to testing for banned substances. ___________________________ Signature of Student-Athlete Print Student-Athlete’s Name Date

___________________________ Signature of Parent/Guardian Print Parent/Guardian’s Name Date May 1, 2010

CONCUSSION Information SheetThis sheet has information to help protect your children or teens from concussion or other serious brain injury. Use this information at your children’s or teens’ games and practices to learn how to spot a concussion and what to do if a concussion occurs.

What Is a Concussion?A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury—or TBI—caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move quickly back and forth. This fast movement can cause the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging the brain cells.

How Can I Help Keep My Children or Teens Safe?Sports are a great way for children and teens to stay healthy and can help them do well in school. To help lower your children’s or teens’ chances of getting a concussion or other serious brain injury, you should:

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Help create a culture of safety for the team.

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Work with their coach to teach ways to lower the chances of getting a concussion.

Talk with your children or teens about concussion and ask if they have concerns about reporting a concussion. Talk with them about their concerns; emphasize the importance of reporting concussions and taking time to recover from one.

Ensure that they follow their coach’s rules for safety and the rules of the sport.

Tell your children or teens that you expect them to practice good sportsmanship at all times.

When appropriate for the sport or activity, teach your children or teens that they must wear a helmet to lower the chances of the most serious types of brain or head injury. However, there is no “concussion-proof” helmet. So, even with a helmet, it is important for children and teens to avoid hits to the head.

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•

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Plan ahead. What do you want your child or teen to know about concussion?

How Can I Spot a Possible Concussion?Children and teens who show or report one or more of the signs and symptoms listed below—or simply say they just “don’t feel right” after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body—may have a concussion or other serious brain injury.

Signs Observed by Parents or CoachesAppears dazed or stunned.

Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score, or opponent.

Moves clumsily.

Answers questions slowly.

Loses consciousness (even briefly).

Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes.

Can’t recall events prior to or after a hit or fall.

Symptoms Reported by Children and TeensHeadache or “pressure” in head.

Nausea or vomiting.

Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.

Bothered by light or noise.

Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.

Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.

Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down.”

Talk with your children and teens about concussion. Tell them to report their concussion symptoms to you and their coach right away. Some children and teens think concussions aren’t serious or worry that if they report a concussion they will lose their position on the team or look weak. Be sure to remind them that it’s better to miss one game than the whole season.

Tolearnmore,gotowww.cdc.gov/HEADSUP

Concussions affect each child and teen differently. While most children and teens with a concussion feel better within a couple of weeks, some will have symptoms for months or longer. Talk with your children’s or teens’ health care provider if their concussion symptoms do not go away or if they get worse after they return to their regular activities.

What Are Some More Serious Danger Signs to Look Out For?In rare cases, a dangerous collection of blood (hematoma) may form on the brain after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body and can squeeze the brain against the skull. Call 9-1-1 or take your child or teen to the emergency department right away if, after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, he or she has one or more of these danger signs:

•

•

•

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One pupil larger than the other.

Drowsiness or inability to wake up.

A headache that gets worse and does not go away.

Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination.

Repeated vomiting or nausea, convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching).

Unusual behavior, increased confusion, restlessness, or agitation.

Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out). Even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously.

Children and teens who continue to play while having concussion symptoms or who return to play too soon—while the brain is still healing—have a greater chance of getting another concussion. A repeat concussion that occurs while the brain is still healing from the first injury can be very serious and can affect a child or teen for a lifetime. It can even be fatal.

What Should I Do If My Child or Teen Has a Possible Concussion?As a parent, if you think your child or teen may have a concussion, you should:

1. Remove your child or teen from play.

2. Keep your child or teen out of play the day of the injury. Your child or teen should be seen by a health care provider and only return to play with permission from a health care provider who is experienced in evaluating for concussion.

3. Ask your child’s or teen’s health care provider for written instructions on helping your child or teen return to school. You can give the instructions to your child’s or teen’s school nurse and teacher(s) and return-to-play instructions to the coach and/or athletic trainer.

Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Only a health care provider should assess a child or teen for a possible concussion. Concussion signs and symptoms often show up soon after the injury. But you may not know how serious the concussion is at first, and some symptoms may not show up for hours or days.

The brain needs time to heal after a concussion. A child’s or teen’s return to school and sports should be a gradual process that is carefully managed and monitored by a health care provider.

Tolearnmore,gotowww.cdc.gov/HEADSUP

You can also download the CDC HEADS UP app to get concussion information at your fingertips. Just scan the QR code pictured at left with your smartphone.

Revised 5/2015

Discusstherisksofconcussionandotherseriousbraininjurywithyourchildorteenandhaveeachpersonsignbelow.

Detach the section below and keep this information sheet to use at your children’s or teens’ games and practices to help protect them from concussion or other serious brain injury.

¡I learned about concussion and talked with my parent or coach about what to do if I have a concussion or other serious brain injury.

Athlete Name Printed: ____________________________________________________________ Date: ____________________

Athlete Signature: _________________________________________________________________________________________

¡I have read this fact sheet for parents on concussion with my child or teen and talked about what to do if they have a concussion or other serious brain injury.

Parent or Legal Guardian Name Printed: ______________________________________________ Date: ____________________

Parent or Legal Guardian Signature: ___________________________________________________________________________

SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH IN YOUNG ATHLETES

S udden death in young athletes between the ages of 10 and 19 is very rare. What, if anything, can be done to prevent this kind of tragedy?

What is sudden cardiac death in the young athlete?

Sudden cardiac death is the result of an unexpected failure of proper heart func-tion, usually (about 60% of the time) dur-ing or immediately after exercise without trauma. Since the heart stops pumping adequately, the athlete quickly col-lapses, loses consciousness, and ulti-mately dies unless normal heart rhythm is restored using an automated external defibrillator (AED).

How common is sudden death in young athletes?

Sudden cardiac death in young athletes is very rare. About 100 such deaths are reported in the United States per year. The chance of sudden death occurring to any individual high school athlete is about one in 200,000 per year.

Sudden cardiac death is more common: in males than in females; in football and basketball than in other sports; and in African-Americans than in other races and ethnic groups.

What are the most common causes?

Research suggests that the main cause is a loss of proper heart rhythm, causing the heart to quiver instead of pumping

blood to the brain and body. This is called ventricular fibrillation (ven-TRICK-you-lar fib-roo-LAY-shun). The problem is usually caused by one of several cardiovascular abnormalities and electrical diseases of the heart that go unnoticed in healthy-appearing athletes.

The most common cause of sudden death in an athlete is hypertrophic car-diomyopathy (hi-per-TRO-fic CAR-dee-oh-my-OP-a-thee) also called HCM. HCM is a disease of the heart, with abnormal thickening of the heart muscle, which can cause serious heart rhythm problems and blockages to blood flow. This genetic disease runs in families and usually develops gradu-ally over many years.

The second most likely cause is con-genital (con-JEN-it-al) (i.e., present from birth) abnormalities of the coro-nary arteries. This means that these blood vessels are connected to the main blood vessel of the heart in an abnormal way. This differs from block-ages that may occur when people get older (commonly called “coronary ar-tery disease,” which may lead to a heart attack).

Other diseases of the heart that can lead to sudden death in young people include:

Myocarditis (my-oh-car-DIE-tis), an acute inflammation of the heart muscle (usually due to a virus).

Website Resources

Sudden Death in Athletes at; www.suddendeathathletes.org

Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association www.4hcm.org

American Heart Association www.heart.org Collaborating Agencies:

American Academy of Pediatrics New Jersey Chapter 3836 Quakerbridge Road, Suite 108 Hamilton, NJ 08619 (p) 609-842-0014 (f) 609-842-0015 www.aapnj.org American Heart Association 1 Union Street, Suite 301 Robbinsville, NJ, 08691 (p) 609-208-0020 www.heart.org New Jersey Department of Education PO Box 500 Trenton, NJ 08625-0500 (p) 609-292-4469 www.state.nj.us/education/ New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services P. O. Box 360 Trenton, NJ 08625-0360 (p) 609-292-7837 www.state.nj.us/health Lead Author: American Academy of Pediatrics, New Jersey Chapter

Written by: Initial draft by Sushma Raman Hebbar, MD & Stephen G. Rice, MD PhD Revisions by: Zvi Marans, MD, Steven Ritz, MD, Perry Weinstock, MD, Louis Teichholz, MD; Jeffrey Rosenberg, MD, Sarah Kleinman MPH, CHES; Susan Martz, EdM.

Additional Reviewers: NJ Department of Education, NJ Department of Health and Senior Services, American Heart Association/New Jersey Chapter, NJ Academy of Family Practice, Pediatric Cardiolo-gists, New Jersey State School Nurses Association

Final editing: Stephen G. Rice, MD, PhD - January 2011

Sudden Cardiac Death in Young

Athletes

The Basic Facts on Sudden Cardiac Death

in Young Athletes

Palpitations - awareness of the heart beating unusually (skipping, irregular or extra beats) during athletics or dur-ing cool down periods after athletic participation

Fatigue or tiring more quickly than peers

Being unable to keep up with friends due to shortness of breath

What are the current recommenda-tions for screening young athletes?

New Jersey requires all school athletes to be examined by their primary care physi-cian (“medical home”) or school physician at least once per year. The New Jersey Department of Education requires use of the specific Annual Athletic Pre-Participation Physical Examination Form.

This process begins with the parents and student-athletes answering questions about symptoms during exercise (such as chest pain, dizziness, fainting, palpita-tions or short-ness of breath); and questions about family health history.

The primary healthcare pro-vider needs to know if any family member died suddenly during physical activity or during a seizure. They also need to know if anyone in the family under the age of 50 had an unexplained sudden death such as drowning or car accidents. This information must be provided annually for

each exam because it is so essential to identify those at risk for sudden cardiac death.

The required physical exam includes measurement of blood pressure and a careful listening ex-amination of the heart, especially for murmurs and rhythm abnormalities. If there are no warning signs reported on the health history and no abnormalities discovered on exam, no further evaluation or testing is recom-mended.

When should a student athlete see a heart specialist?

If the primary healthcare provider or school physician has concerns, a referral to a child heart specialist, a pediatric car-diologist, is recommended. This special-ist will perform a more thorough evalua-tion, including an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a graph of the electrical activity of the heart. An echocardiogram, which is an ultrasound test to allow for direct visualization of the heart structure, will likely also be done. The specialist may also order a treadmill exercise test and a monitor to enable a longer re-cording of the heart rhythm. None of the testing is invasive or uncomfortable.

Dilated cardiomyopathy, an enlarge-ment of the heart for unknown rea-sons.

Long QT syndrome and other elec-trical abnor-malities of the heart which cause abnor-mal fast heart rhythms that can also run in families.

Marfan syn-drome, an in-herited disor-der that affects heart valves, walls of major arteries, eyes and the skeleton. It is generally seen in un-usually tall athletes, especially if be-ing tall is not common in other fam-ily members.

Are there warning signs to watch for?

In more than a third of these sudden cardiac deaths, there were warning signs that were not reported or taken seriously. Warning signs are:

Fainting, a seizure or convulsions during physical activity

Fainting or a seizure from emotional excitement, emotional distress or being startled

Dizziness or lightheadedness, espe-cially during exertion

Chest pains, at rest or during exer-tion

Can sudden cardiac death be prevented just through proper screening?

A proper evaluation should find most, but not all, conditions that would cause sudden death in the athlete. This is because some diseases are difficult to uncover and may only develop later in life. Others can de-velop following a normal screening evalua-tion, such as an infection of the heart mus-cle from a virus.

This is why screening evaluations and a review of the family health history need to be performed on a yearly basis by the ath-lete’s primary healthcare provider. With proper screening and evaluation, most cases can be identified and prevented.

Why have an AED on site during sporting events?

The only effective treatment for ventricular fibrillation is immediate use of an auto-mated external defibrillator (AED). An AED can restore the heart back into a normal rhythm. An AED is also life-saving for ven-tricular fibrillation caused by a blow to the chest over the heart (commotio cordis).

The American Academy of Pediatrics/New Jersey Chapter recommends that schools:

Have an AED available at every sports event (three minutes total time to reach and return with the AED)

Have personnel available who are trained in AED use present at practices and games.

Have coaches and athletic trainers trained in basic life support techniques (CPR)

Call 911 immediately while someone is retrieving the AED.

New Jersey Department of Education 2014: pursuant to the Scholastic Student-Athlete Safety Act, P.L. 2013, c71

E14-00395

State of New Jersey DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION

Sudden Cardiac Death Pamphlet

Sign-Off Sheet

Name of School District: ______New Brunswick______

Name of Local School: ________________________________________________________________

I/We acknowledge that we received and reviewed the Sudden Cardiac Death in Young Athletes pamphlet.

Student Signature: _____________________________________________________________________

Parent or Guardian Signature: ____________________________________________________________

Date: ____________________________

Approximately 90% of sports-related eye injuries can be prevented with simpleprecautions, such as using protective eyewear.2 Each sport has a certain type ofrecommended protective eyewear, as determined by the American Society forTesting and Materials (ASTM). Protective eyewear should sit comfortably on theface. Poorly fitted equipment may be uncomfortable, and may not offer the besteye protection. Protective eyewear for sports includes, among other things, safetygoggles and eye guards, and it should be made of polycarbonate lenses, a strong,shatterproof plastic. Polycarbonate lenses are much stronger than regular lenses.3

Health care providers (HCP), including family physicians, ophthalmologists, optometrists,and others, play a critical role in advising students, parents and guardians about the proper use

of protective eyewear. To find out what kind of eye protection is recommended, and permitted for your child’ssport, visit the National Eye Institute at http://www.nei.nih.gov/sports/findingprotection.asp. Prevent BlindnessAmerica also offers tips for choosing and buying protective eyewear at http://www.preventblindness.org/tips-buying-sports-eye-protectors,and http://www.preventblindness.org/ recommended-sports-eye-protectors.It is recommended that all children participating in school sports or recreational sports wear protectiveeyewear. Parents and coaches need to make sure young athletes protect their eyes, and properly gear up forthe game. Protective eyewear should be part of any uniform to help reduce the occurrence of sports-relatedeye injuries. Since many youth teams do not require eye protection, parents may need to ensure that theirchildren wear safety glasses or goggles whenever they play sports. Parents can set a good example by wearingprotective eyewear when they play sports.

Participating in sports and recreational activities is an important part of a healthy, physically active lifestyle forchildren. Unfortunately, injuries can, and do, occur. Children are at particular risk for sustaining a sports-relatedeye injury and most of these injuries can be prevented. Every year, more than 30,000 children sustain serioussports-related eye injuries. Every 13 minutes, an emergency room in the United States treats a sports-relatedeye injury.1 According to the National Eye Institute, the sports with the highest rate of eye injuries are:baseball/softball, ice hockey, racquet sports, and basketball, followed by fencing, lacrosse, paintball and boxing.

Thankfully, there are steps that parents can take to ensure their children’s safety on the field, the court, or whereverthey play or participate in sports and recreational activities.

Prevention ofSports-RelatedEye Injuries

1 National Eye Institute, National Eye Health Education Program, Sports-Related Eye Injuries: What You Need to Know and Tips for Prevention,www.nei.nih.gov/sports/pdf/sportsrelatedeyeInjuries.pdf, December 26, 2013.

2 Rodriguez, Jorge O., D.O., and Lavina, Adrian M., M.D., Prevention and Treatment of Common Eye Injuries in Sports,http://www.aafp.org/afp/2003/0401/p1481.html, September 4, 2014; National Eye Health Education Program, Sports-Related Eye Injuries: What You Needto Know and Tips for Prevention, www.nei.nih.gov/sports/pdf/sportsrelatedeyeInjuries.pdf, December 26, 2013.

3 Bedinghaus, Troy, O.D., Sports Eye Injuries, http://vision.about.com/od/emergencyeyecare/a/Sports_Injuries.htm, December 27, 2013.

The most common types of eye injuries that can result from sports injuries areblunt injuries, corneal abrasions and penetrating injuries.

Blunt injuries:Blunt injuries occur when the eye is suddenly compressedby impact from an object. Blunt injuries, often caused by tennis balls,racquets, fists or elbows, sometimes cause a black eye or hyphema(bleeding in front of the eye). More serious blunt injuries often breakbones near the eye, and may sometimes seriously damage importanteye structures and/or lead to vision loss.

Corneal abrasions: Corneal abrasions are painful scrapes on the outsideof the eye, or the cornea. Most corneal abrasions eventually heal on their

own, but a doctor can best assess the extent of the abrasion, and may prescribe medication to help control thepain. The most common cause of a sports-related corneal abrasion is being poked in the eye by a finger. Penetrating injuries: Penetrating injuries are caused by a foreign object piercing the eye. Penetrating injuries

are very serious, and often result in severe damage to the eye. These injuries often occur when eyeglasses breakwhile they are being worn. Penetrating injuries must be treated quickly in order to preserve vision.4

Pain when looking up and/or down, or difficulty seeing;

Tenderness; Sunken eye; Double vision; Severe eyelid and facial swelling; Difficulty tracking;

If a child sustains an eye injury, it is recommended that he/she receiveimmediate treatment from a licensed HCP (e.g., eye doctor) toreduce the risk of serious damage, including blindness. It is alsorecommended that the child, along with his/her parent or guardian,seek guidance from the HCP regarding the appropriate amount oftime to wait before returning to sports competition or practice aftersustaining an eye injury. The school nurse and the child’s teachersshould also be notified when a child sustains an eye injury. A parent

or guardian should also provide the school nurse with a physician’s notedetailing the nature of the eye injury, any diagnosis, medical orders for

the return to school, as well as any prescription(s) and/or treatment(s) necessary to promotehealing, and the safe resumption of normal activities, including sports and recreational activities.

According to the American Family Physician Journal, there are several guidelines thatshould be followed when students return to play after sustaining an eye injury. For

example, students who have sustained significant ocularinjury should receive a full examination and clearanceby an ophthalmologist or optometrist. In addition,students should not return to play until the period oftime recommended by their HCP has elapsed. For more

minor eye injuries, the athletic trainer may determine thatit is safe for a student to resume play based on the nature of the injury, and how the

student feels. No matter what degree of eye injury is sustained, it is recommended thatstudents wear protective eyewear when returning to play and immediately report any concerns with their visionto their coach and/or the athletic trainer.

Additional information on eye safety can be found at http://isee.nei.nih.gov andhttp://www.nei.nih.gov/sports.

4Bedinghaus, Troy, O.D., Sports Eye Injuries, http://vision.about.com/od/emergencyeyecare/a/Sports_Injuries.htm, December 27, 2013.

Most CommonTypes of EyeInjuries

The eye has an unusual pupil sizeor shape;

Blood in the clear part of the eye; Numbness of the upper cheekand gum; and/or

Severe redness around the whitepart of the eye.

What to do if aSports-RelatedEye InjuryOccurs

Signs orSymptoms of an Eye Injury

Return to Playand Sports

NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

NEW BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

1000 SOMERSET STREET NEW BRUNSWICK, NEW JERSEY 08901

OFFICE: (732) 745-5300, EXT. 3102, 3103 / FAX: (732) 214-1320

AUBREY A. JOHNSON CRAIG C. LOWERY Superintendent of Schools Director of Athletics

Dear Parent or Guardian,

The Board of Education has purchased comprehensive insurance coverage to protect all participants in interscholastic athletics against injury. Coverage is provided not only for athletes, but also for equipment managers, band members, cheerleaders, twirlers, and flag wavers.

PLEASE NOTE: This policy is excess over any other insurance you may have. Thus, PARENTS MUST USE THEIR OWN INSURANCE FIRST. This policy will then pick up those bills not covered by your own insurance, up to the limits in the policy. If you do not have insurance for medical expenses, this policy will go into effect immediately.

Although this coverage is very broad, there are restrictions, limitations and exclusions in this policy. In many situations, medical bills may not be covered in full. Parents should use their own personal insurance to pay these balances, and should understand that medical expenses are their own responsibility, not the School’s.

Please report any injuries immediately to your child’s coach or faculty advisor. Claims forms will be provided by the school, but will be the parent’s responsibility to collect all medical bills and submit them to the insurance company. Questions regarding the policy coverage or about specific claims can best be answered by Bollinger Insurance Company.

Please acknowledge receipt of this letter by signing and returning the letter to the coach via your son/daughter.

Sincerely,

Craig C. Lowery Director of Athletics

I hereby acknowledge review of this letter which describes the coverage, benefits and exclusions of the insurance program in force for athletes and other participants in the athletic program of New Brunswick Public Schools and the copy of the physical examination form for my son/daughter.

NEW BRUNSWICK PUBLIC SCHOOLS

NEW BRUNSWICK HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT

1000 SOMERSET STREET NEW BRUNSWICK, NEW JERSEY 08901

OFFICE: (732) 745-5300, EXT. 3102, 3103 / FAX: (732) 214-1320

AUBREY A. JOHNSON CRAIG C. LOWERY Superintendent of Schools Director of Athletics

Dear Parent or Guardian,

RE: New Brunswick Public Schools Sports Medicine

As a parent/guardian of a New Brunswick Public Schools student-athlete, you should be aware that the district employs a Certified Athletic Trainer. The purpose of this letter is to introduce myself to you and to explain my role with the NBPS athletic program.

A Certified Athletic Trainer is a sports medicine specialist who primarily cares for athletic-related injuries; these injuries can span from something as minor as a contusion to something as serious as a concussion or fracture. While your son/daughter is participating in a sport here at New Brunswick High School or Middle School, injuries and illnesses can occur. As a Certified Athletic Trainer, I make myself as available as possible to be at all practice and games. I also handle all the pre-game taping and preparation. In the event that an injury or illness occurs on the field, court, or mat, I am responsible for evaluating that injury or illness; then determine if the injury should be seen by a physician, and refer appropriately.

I would like to inform you of an improved policy regarding physician visits, which has been strictly enforced since the fall of 2009. An athlete, who sees a physician for an injury or serious illness, must be cleared in writing by that physician and/or the primary care physician, in the case of emergency room visit. The athlete must bring the note of clearance to the Athletic Trainer for that injury. We will then communicate their active status to the athlete’s coach. If your child does not have a clearance note from their physician, he/she will not be permitted to participate in NBPS athletics. This policy allows the Sports Medicine staff to be aware of the student-athlete’s status and to help better care for all New Brunswick Zebra athletes.

Please feel free to contact me regarding your child’s injury history, return to play status, or the overall medical opinion of our Sports Medicine Staff.

John Caulfield, MS, ATC Head Athletic Trainer New Brunswick Public Schools john_caulfield@nbpsnj.net 732-745-5300 Ext. 3101