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2014-15 BYLAWS and

COMPETITION RULES

of the

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING CLUB

A Program Administered by the

TEXAS BOWLING CENTERS ASSOCIATION

5700 Grover Ave. Austin, TX 78756

(512) 467-9331

FAX (512) 467-9384

www.texasbowlingcenters.org

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Our Champions

Girls Team Champion Girls Team Runner-up 2014..........Harker Heights Knights ....................................McKinney Boyd Broncos 2013..........McKinney Boyd Broncos .................................San Antonio Madison Mavericks 2012..........Stony Point Tigers.............................................McKinney Boyd Broncos 2011..........Plano East Panthers ...........................................Katy Tigers 2010..........Killeen Ellison Eagles .......................................Allen Eagles 2009..........Allen Eagles ......................................................Plano East Panthers 2008..........San Antonio Madison Mavericks......................Alvin Yellowjackets 2007..........New Braunfels Unicorns ...................................Harker Heights Knights 2006..........Fort Bend Dulles Vikings .................................Amarillo Tascosa Rebels 2005..........Allen Eagles ......................................................Langham Creek Lobos 2004..........Allen Eagles ......................................................Killeen Shoemaker Grey Wolves 2003..........New Braunfels Unicorns ...................................Richardson Berkner Rams 2002..........Harker Heights Knights ....................................Cypress Falls Golden Eagles Boys Team Champion Boys Team Runner-up 2014..........San Antonio Warren Warriors ..........................Converse Judson Rockets 2013..........Richland Rebels ................................................Allen Eagles 2012..........San Antonio Taft Raiders..................................Harker Heights Knights 2011..........Pearland Oilers ..................................................San Antonio Taft Raiders 2010..........Plano East Panthers ...........................................San Antonio Madison Mavericks 2009..........San Antonio Madison Mavericks......................Keller Fossil Ridge Panthers 2008..........Allen Eagles ......................................................Texas City Stings 2007..........Willis Wildcats..................................................Alvin Yellowjackets 2006..........Plano East Panthers ...........................................Garland Lakeview Centennial Patriots 2005..........Garland Lakeview Centennial Patriots .............Boswell Pioneers 2004..........Denton Ryan Raiders ........................................Spring Lions 2003..........Richland Rebels ................................................Allen Eagles 2002..........Allen Eagles ......................................................Katy Taylor Mustangs

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Our Champions Girls Singles Champion Girls Singles Runner-up 2014..........Shana Geerdes (Plano East) ..............................Kim Stokes (Canyon Randall) 2013..........Lynsie Rodriguez (Leander) .............................Shana Geerdes (Plano East) 2012..........Brianne Hansen (McKinney Boyd) ..................Kayla Endicott (Stony Point) 2011..........Danielle Walker (Keller Central) ......................Jelesa Maryland (Katy) 2010..........Cindy Gill (Killeen Ellison) ..............................Jessica Cantu (San Antonio Brandeis) 2009..........Madison Williams (Katy) .................................Sierra Gibbons (Plano East) 2008..........Danielle Walker (Keller Central) ......................Ashley Bivens (Alvin) 2007..........Ashley Bivens (Alvin) ......................................Kimberly Wallace (Lamar Consol.) 2006..........Carmen Solis (Pasadena) ..................................Jessa Lordo (Katy Taylor) 2005..........Beth Carter (Allen) ...........................................Maggie Adams (Fort Bend Dulles) 2004..........Maggie Adams (Fort Bend Dulles) ...................Courtney Swindle (Allen) Boys Singles Champion Boys Singles Runner-up 2014..........Jared Nichols (North Crowley) .........................Josh Perez (S.A. John Jay) 2013..........Matt Lenz (Georgetown)...................................Ryan Money (Cypress Fairbanks) 2012..........Harrison Jarvis (San Antonio Madison) ...........Mason Edmondson (Amarillo) 2011..........William Ganem (Austin Anderson) ..................Harrison Jarvis (S.A. Madison) 2010..........Jacob Hollis (Keller Fossil Ridge) ....................Ryan Money (Cypress Fairbanks) 2009..........Robert Bean (Birdville) .....................................Zach Trevino (Georgetown) 2008..........Geoffrey Young (Denton) .................................Patrick Adams (Keller Central) 2007..........Anthony Lavery (Pasadena Memorial) .............Steven Melnyk (The Woodlands) 2006..........Joshua Hailey (Conroe Oak Ridge) ..................Michael Cook (Cypress Falls) 2005..........Hector Arrelano (Irving) ...................................David Giza (Alief Taylor) 2004..........Craig Stanley (Plano Senior) ............................Levi Young (New Braunfels Canyon)

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Table of Contents

Bylaws Article Page Article Page 1 ......... Introduction .......................... 5 12 ......... Coaches Background Screening ...... 10 2 ......... Objectives ............................. 5 13 ......... Participation Fees ............................ 10 3 ......... Definitions ............................ 6 14 ......... Expenses .......................................... 10 4 ......... Code of Conduct ................... 6 15 ......... Liability ........................................... 10 5 ......... Code of Ethics ...................... 7 16 ......... Team Advancement ......................... 11 6 ......... Membership .......................... 7 17 ......... Individual Advancement .................. 11 7 ......... Fees ....................................... 7 18 ......... All-District Team Tournament ........ 12 8 ......... Student Eligibility ................. 8 19 ......... Scholarships ..................................... 12 9 ......... Organization ......................... 8 20 ......... Amendments .................................... 12 10 ......... District Structure ................... 8 21 ......... Interpretation ................................... 12 11 ......... Team Structure ..................... 9

Competition Rules Article Page Article Page Rule 1 ........ Student Eligibility ............... 13 Rule 12 ......... Byes ........................................... 15 Rule 2 ........ Tryouts ............................... 13 Rule 13 ......... Match Format ............................ 15 Rule 3 ........ Practice ............................... 13 Rule 14 ......... Standings ................................... 16 Rule 4 ........ Playing Strength ................. 13 Rule 15 ......... Ties ............................................ 16 Rule 5 ........ Legal Lineup....................... 13 Rule 16 ......... Recordkeeping .......................... 17 Rule 6 ........ Absentees ........................... 14 Rule 17 ......... Conduct ..................................... 17 Rule 7 ........ Forfeitures .......................... 14 Rule 18 ......... Enforcement .............................. 17 Rule 8 ........ Substitution ......................... 14 Rule 19 ......... Protests & Appeals .................... 17 Rule 9 ........ Uniforms & Dress Code ..... 14 Rule 20 ......... Suspension ................................ 17 Rule 10 ...... Playing Area ....................... 15 Rule 21 ......... All-District Recognition ............ 18 Rule 11 ...... Schedule ............................. 15 Page Appendix A ...................................... THSBC Student Academic Eligibility Policy ............................... 19 Appendix B ...................................... Duties of the District Coordinator ................................................. 21 Appendix C ...................................... Consent and Release of Liability................................................... 22 Appendix D ...................................... Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ............................................ 23

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ARTICLE 1 - INTRODUCTION A. The Texas High School Bowling Club (THSBC) was created in 2001 by the Texas Bowling Centers

Association (TBCA) to provide leadership and guidance to public and private school bowling clubs. TBCA is the bowling proprietors’ organization for the state of Texas and is affiliated with the Bowling Proprietors Association of America (BPAA).

B. The TBCA Board of Directors shall have final approving authority over the activities of the THSBC. C. The THSBC shall continue to be the governing body for high school bowling in the state of Texas

until the sport is recognized and approved for interscholastic competition by the University Interscholastic League (U.I.L.). To that end, the THSBC shall work diligently with the United States Bowling Congress (USBC) and other such entities, that are or may become involved.

D. The THSBC shall be a representative, administrative, legislative and executive body with jurisdiction over affiliated districts and its member schools.

E. The THSBC provides competition between high schools for boys and girls on the varsity and junior varsity level thus allowing students to enjoy the rewards of fair competition.

F. U.I.L. Academic eligibility rules will be followed. Other UIL policies shall be followed to the greatest extent possible.

G. When a school joins the THSBC, it agrees to accept and observe the terms of participation in the contests as set forth in these Bylaws and Competition Rules. When disputes arise, they shall be settled by the appropriate committee in the prescribed manner.

H. All persons involved in organizing and administering a THSBC contest should familiarize themselves with the rules governing participation, eligibility rules, organization of contests, methods of settling disputes, etc.

I. These rules shall be available at www.texasbowlingcenters.org prior to the start of each season. J. Administration of the THSBC is divided into two distinct areas of responsibility:

1. Recruitment of bowling centers and schools is administered by Karen Miller, TBCA Executive Director; 5700 Grover Ave., Austin, TX 78756; phone 512-467-9331; e-mail: kmiller@texasbowlingcenters.org.

2. Operations of the program is administered by Dick Atkinson, Proprietor, Hallmark Lanes, Killeen, TX 76542; phone 254-690-4949; e-mail: bowling@hallmarklanes.com

ARTICLE 2 - OBJECTIVES

The objectives of the THSBC are: a. To provide an opportunity to high school students to represent their school and community in the

sport of bowling. b. To mirror the U.I.L. Statement of Purpose to allow students to:

1) Refine physical and mental aptitudes, 2) Feel a sense of pride and dignity, 3) Experience teamwork and develop a sense of fair play, 4) Foster self-discipline and perseverance, 5) Appreciate that rules, consistently applied, create order and discipline, 6) Affirm self-worth in times of disappointment as well as adulation, 7) Cultivate lifetime skills, 8) Experience the joy of achieving their potential in a wholesome environment and, 9) Discover that the true meaning of winning is doing one’s best.

c. To establish rules and procedures for conducting interscholastic competition. d. To conduct annual regional team and singles advancement tournaments; state team and singles

championship tournaments; and state All-District Team tournament.

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ARTICLE 3 - DEFINITIONS A. Baker Format: an alternative form of team competition in which each of 5 players per team bowl two

frames in each game of American Tenpins. The first player in the lineup bowls the 1st and 6th frames; the second bowler bowls the 2nd and 7th frames; the third player bowls the 3rd and 8th frames; the fourth player bowls the 4th and 9th frames; and the fifth player bowls the 5th and 10th frames.

B. Head Coach: an individual, who may also be the school sponsor, who interacts with, and actively instructs, students in the sport of competitive bowling. The head coach shall be appointed as a joint decision of the school administration and the host bowling center proprietor. Should an agreement not be reached, the school administration shall be appoint the head coach. Should the school administration waive this right, the host bowling center proprietor shall name the head coach.

C. District: a group of participating schools, with the expressed approval of the THSBC, within a limited geographic area that is determined to facilitate competition among the schools in THSBC contests.

D. District Coordinator: An individual, appointed by the THSBC State Coordinator charged with overseeing competition and the activities of the district and complying with the stated Duties of the District Coordinator at Appendix B and these Bylaws and Competition Rules.

E. Junior varsity: a level of sub-varsity competition in which players compete only at district level. F. Levels of competition: There are three levels of team and singles competition - District, Region, and

State. G. Match: direct competition between two high school teams according to the procedures included in

these Bylaws and Competition Rules. Unopposed matches are not authorized. Each match consists of two parts: Individual match play games and Baker Format team games.

H. Region: a grouping of districts specified annually by the THSBC in which member schools advance, according to a specified ratio, from district play in team and singles competition in order to further advance to state competition.

I. School Sponsor: an individual, normally a staff or faculty member of the high school, who has been approved by the school administration to ensure all eligibility requirements of students are met. The sponsor may also be the coach.

J. State coordinator: An individual, appointed by the President, TBCA, charged with providing leadership and guidance as well as organizing and directing administration and competition at all levels of the THSBC.

K. Varsity: a level of competition in which high school players may represent their high school in district, regional, and state interscholastic competition.

ARTICLE 4 - CODE OF CONDUCT All competitors and coaches shall adhere to a code of conduct that mirrors Section 1201 of the U.I.L. Constitution, portions of which are extracted below:

a. Play the game in the spirit of fairness and sportsmanship, observing all rules, both in letter and intent.

b. Regard opponents as guests, putting clean play and good sportsmanship above victory. c. Win without boast and lose without bitterness. d. Victory is important, but the most important things in sports are striving to excel and the positive

feelings it fosters between those who play fair and have no excuse when they lose. e. The development of recreative aspects and positive human relations should be stressed in all

competition.

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ARTICLE 5 - CODE OF ETHICS A. The use of all tobacco products will be prohibited in the host bowling center (separate

restaurants/lounges excluded) during all practice sessions, district matches or functions or any other times when bowlers are reasonably expected to be under the supervision of the Texas High School Bowling Club.

B. The sale and consumption of any alcoholic beverages will be prohibited in the host bowing center (separate restaurants/lounges excluded) during any practice sessions, district matches or other related functions.

C. No bowler shall fail to comply with any reasonable instruction or request of coaches, coordinators, or bowling center management during any time or function when he/she is properly under the authority of such personnel.

D. No bowler/parent/guardian/coach shall act in an unsportsmanlike manner proceeding, during or following any practice session, district match or other related function.

E. During any practice session, district match or other related function, no bowler/parent/guardian/coach shall cause, or attempt to cause, or threaten physical injury or physical deception, or behavior in such way that could reasonably be anticipated to cause physical injury to a member of the coaching staff, team, opposing team, or any other person.

F. No bowler/parent/guardian/coach shall cause or attempt to cause damage to private property, or any property held by the bowling center management.

ARTICLE 6 - MEMBERSHIP

A. Membership in the THSBC is open to all high schools currently affiliated with the U.I.L., Texas Association of Private and Parochial Schools (TAPPS), or other nonaffiliated high schools within the geographical boundaries of the state of Texas.

B. Member schools may be hosted by any bowling center within the geographic area of the school which is a member in good standing of the TBCA. The host center of a high school team shall be appointed by THSBC state officials. Any change in the host center for any high school shall be approved only by THSBC state officials.

ARTICLE 7 - FEES

A. There shall be no membership fees assessed by the THSBC to schools. Fees may be assessed to bowling centers only once approved by the TBCA board of directors.

B. Bowling centers, to be eligible to host schools in the activities of the THSBC, must be fully paid members in good standing of the TBCA.

C. There shall be individual participation fees. (See ARTICLE 13 - PARTICIPATION FEES.) D. A stipend may be paid by the sponsoring bowling center or the high school or combination thereof, to

the school sponsor and/or head coach (recommended $500 maximum). This stipend may be underwritten by any legal means.

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ARTICLE 8 - STUDENT ELIGIBILITY A. High School students participating in THSBC competition must:

1. be academically eligible under current U.I.L. criteria; 2. meet the residency requirements of the school/I.S.D. for which he/she is competing; 3. be a full-time enrollee (enrolled and participating in at least 50% of the class periods offered by

the school in a given school day) in grades 9 through 12 at the school for which he/she is competing;

4. be eligible for USBC Youth membership. B. Students have 4 years of eligibility beginning with the year they first enroll as a Freshman. C. To advance beyond district team competition, each bowler must also have competed in at least one

varsity match during the district season and completed at least one full game during the Match Play round in order to have a valid varsity average.

D. Competition Rule 1 further defines student eligibility. E. See Appendix A for a detailed student academic eligibility policy.

ARTICLE 9 - ORGANIZATION

A. The THSBC shall be comprised of autonomous districts made up of from two to eight high schools per district. The maximum number of schools per district may exceed 8 only with permission of THSBC.

B. Districts have the option of having separate gender districts. If a district, for example, has grown to more than 8 schools in the boys division requiring them to split into two districts, but have less than 8 girls teams, they may have a girls district separate from the boys districts. This would require a separate schedule for each gender.

C. The TBCA president shall appoint a state coordinator to oversee the rules and activities of the THSBC. The State Coordinator shall appoint district coordinators to oversee the activities and contests of schools in each district.

D. The state coordinator and all district coordinators shall comprise the THSBC executive committee. This committee shall meet annually at the state tournament and shall submit all recommendations to the TBCA board of directors, whose authority shall be binding.

E. The THSBC State Coordinator shall also appoint an Appeals Committee, consisting of the state coordinator and the Team and Singles tournament directors who shall act on all protests or appeals forwarded from individual districts.

ARTICLE 10 - DISTRICT STRUCTURE

A. The district coordinator shall oversee the activities and contests of schools in each district and perform specified duties. (See Duties of the District Coordinator at APPENDIX B)

B. There shall be a District Executive Committee consisting of the district coordinator and one representative (sponsor or head coach) from each participating high school in that district.

C. Each district schedule shall commence no earlier than November 1 nor end later than the last Saturday in February without prior approval of the THSBC. Individual school tryouts shall begin no earlier than October 1 of each year.

D. Each district may award a plaque or trophy to each district championship team. Individual medals may be awarded to the individual team members of each first and second place team in each district.

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ARTICLE 11 - TEAM STRUCTURE A. Each participating high school may field one boys team and one girls team in varsity competition and

an unlimited number of teams in junior varsity (sub-varsity) competition with each team consisting of no more than 8 students. The number of junior varsity teams may only be limited by the desires of the school administration and/or host bowling center.

B. A high school may participate with less than the aforementioned teams. C. Each high school will field teams from their respective eligible student body unless approval is

obtained to field a co-op team. (See Para H below) D. Each high school shall be hosted by a TBCA member bowling center. E. Each participating high school shall be assigned to a district of no less than two nor more than eight

schools (unless waived by THSBC). Primary factors for assignment are geographic proximity to the host bowling center and willingness of the center to host the high school. All district alignments must be approved by THSBC prior to the beginning of competition.

F. A school may, upon request to the THSBC, field a coed team in the boys division if enough students are not available to field separate teams by gender. Coed teams are eligible to compete in team competition at all levels of competition. If, during the season, a school loses a number of students that would preclude either or both teams from continued participation, they may combine the boys and girls teams into a co-ed team participating in the boy’s division.

G. Schools with a larger number of girls than boys eligible and available to compete may field a girls team and a co-ed team. However, the girls competing on the co-ed team in the boys division must be specified prior to the start of the season and they cannot, at any time, compete on the girls team.

H. A district may, upon approval by the THSBC, field a co-op team consisting of students enrolled at different high schools if enough students from a single high school are not available. Co-op teams shall not be eligible to compete in team competition beyond district level. However, co-op teams may be district champions. Students enrolled at schools who have a bowling team in any form in the THSBC are not eligible to compete for another school on a co-op team. Individual students on co-op teams may, however, advance as a singles entrant in singles competition.

I. Each high school should have a sponsor approved by the high school administration and must comply with the school and/or Independent School District rules governing club sports.

J. Each high school shall also have a head coach who shall be agreeable to the school administration. The coach may be the school sponsor, a faculty or staff member of the high school, a representative of the bowling center, or an interested parent or other person agreeable to the school administration. There is no limit to the number of assistant coaches a team may have.

K. Each volunteer coach must be registered under the USBC Registered Volunteer Program. Each district shall determine how the registration fees must be paid. This requirement does not extend to school sponsors who are member of the faculty or staff, who must have already undergone a background screening process. See ARTICLE 12 - COACHES BACKGROUND SCREENING for further details.

L. In district competition, competitors and coaches shall appear in uniforms approved by the THSBC and District.

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ARTICLE 12 - COACHES BACKGROUND SCREENING A. The Texas High School Bowling Club has adopted the USBC Registered Volunteer Program (RVP)

as a means of assuring parents that we are doing everything we can (within reason) to provide a safe environment for Texas high school bowlers. These rules and policies were developed by USBC in compliance with National Council of Youth Sports recommendations.

B. All volunteer coaches and any other adults who have interaction with Texas high school bowlers during any activities of the THSBC and who are not faculty or staff members of the respective high schools involved in the THSBC are required to participate in this background screening program conducted by the National Center for Safety Initiatives (NCSI) through the USBC. There is a fee involved in obtaining the required background screening which may be underwritten by any legal means. This background check is valid for two years and a badge will be provided by USBC This badge, which includes the person’s name, city of residence, and expiration date shall be worn on a provided lanyard around the neck during THSBC activities.

C. It is understood that faculty and staff members must have undergone a background screening process through the school in order to be hired by the respective high schools and that a similar ID badge, issued by the high school, shall be worn by those members during all activities of the THSBC.

D. The penalty for non-compliance may result in the coach being suspended from coaching duties.

ARTICLE 13 - PARTICIPATION FEES

There shall be fees charged to students for participation. These fees include a tryout fee (recommended not to exceed $15) for each student who tries out for the team; and a participation fee (recommended not to exceed $100) for each student who competes in interscholastic competition. These fees may be underwritten by any legal means.

ARTICLE 14 - EXPENSES

A. There shall be a uniform fee. Participating students must be in uniform required by the THSBC for district, regional and state competition. See Competition Rule 9.

B. Individual and team expenses incurred, to include any transportation expenses, as a result of membership in the THSBC may be funded by the high school, the host bowling center, corporate sponsors, booster club fundraisers, or any other legal means.

C. Each participant shall bear the cost and shall arrange for his/her transportation to and from practices and district matches unless otherwise specified by the high school administration.

D. Transportation costs for competition beyond district level shall be coordinated between the school sponsor, head coach and the host bowling center.

E. Individual USBC certification is free if submitted on-line under the Coaches Registration Program at www.bowl.com/highschool. A student may also be certified through a bowling center’s youth program on a personally paid full membership or basic membership basis. Membership in the USBC is not required for all competitors, but strongly encouraged.

ARTICLE 15 - LIABILITY All participants and their parent or legal guardian shall be required to sign Consent & Release of Liability forms (See APPENDIX C), stating that they are assuming full responsibility for their transportation and participation and will hold the THSBC, Texas Bowling Centers Association, school districts, coaches, and bowling centers harmless from all actions arising as a result of participation and travel in connection with THSBC activities. In cases where transportation is required by the local school principal or I.S.D. Board of Trustees, arrangements will be negotiated independently.

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ARTICLE 16 - TEAM ADVANCEMENT A. Advancement to the state team tournament shall include interim regional competition based on the

number and size of participating districts. Sites of regional competition and regional alignment shall be provided annually by THSBC. Regional tournaments shall be conducted on the first Sunday in March each year unless prior approval to deviate from this date is provided by the THSBC.

B. The state team tournament shall be held at a member bowling center no smaller than 44 lanes on the last full weekend in March unless Easter falls on that weekend. In that case, the state team tournament shall be held on the preceding weekend. Invitations to bid shall be sent to applicable centers no later than January of each year for the following school year’s state finals. The TBCA board of directors shall choose, by majority vote, the host center from bids submitted.

C. No more than the top 50% of both boys and girls varsity teams from each district shall qualify to advance to regional competition (unless rounding up is required). Should a qualified team not be able to advance to regional, the District Coordinator is authorized to advance the next place team.

D. Advancement from regional to state shall be based on configuration and alignment of districts and regions. Advancement ratios shall be provided as soon as possible after district alignments are finalized and reported. In no case shall the number of teams advancing to the state tournament in each gender exceed 36.

E. Tournament rules and entry forms may be found on the web at www.texasbowlingcenters.org. F. A regional tournament roster with a maximum of eight members must be submitted to the respective

regional tournament director by a date specified by THSBC. Team trophies shall be presented to each regional championship team.

G. A state tournament roster with a maximum of eight members must be submitted to the THSBC by a date specified on the state team entry forms. Rules and information regarding State Finals will be furnished to all districts and teams as soon as possible after the start of the season.

H. Team and individual awards shall be presented to the state championship team and runner-up.

ARTICLE 17 - INDIVIDUAL ADVANCEMENT

A. Advancement to the state singles tournament on the same date and at the same site as the team tournament shall include interim regional competition based on the number and size of participating districts. Sites of regional competition and regional alignment shall be provided annually by THSBC. Regional tournaments shall be conducted on the first Sunday in March each year unless prior approval to deviate from this date is provided by the THSBC. Tournament rules and entry forms may be found on the web at www.texasbowlingcenters.org.

B. The number of individuals advancing to the state singles tournament from regional advancement tournaments shall not exceed 65 entrants per gender.

C. Each district shall advance the number of individual bowlers to regional as specified by THSBC. D. Appropriate awards shall be provided by the THSBC. E. To be eligible to advance, students must have completed 2/3 of the scheduled district match play

games unless waived by the District Executive Committee due to injury, illness or other reason so specified by this committee.

F. Should a qualified individual not be able to advance to regionals, the District Coordinator is authorized to advance the next place individual.

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ARTICLE 18 - ALL-DISTRICT TEAM TOURNAMENT A. An All-District Team Tournament will be conducted after the State Team and Singles Championship

Tournaments. Team members shall consist of students receiving All-District Team recognition. (See Competition Rule 21 and the Tournament Rules on our web site).

B. This tournament shall be held on the weekend following the State Team and Singles Championship Tournaments unless Easter falls on that weekend. In that case, the tournament shall be held on the weekend following Easter.

C. Tournament rules and entry forms may be found on the web at www.texasbowlingcenters.org.

ARTICLE 19 - SCHOLARSHIPS Scholarships may be awarded not in contravention with all U.I.L. and N.C.A.A. rules. The scholarship awards shall be determined by the TBCA Board of Directors based on the recommendations of the THSBC Executive Committee.

ARTICLE 20 - AMENDMENTS

These bylaws may be amended by recommendation of the THSBC executive committee and by majority vote of the TBCA board of directors.

ARTICLE 21 - INTERPRETATION

These Bylaws and accompanying Competition Rules are written to allow competing school administrators, coaches, bowling center proprietors, officials, and district coordinators the best opportunity to understand and comply with the intent of the TBCA and THSBC to administer the high school bowling program in the state of Texas. THSBC fully understands that all words are subject to interpretation and further understands it is not feasible to incorporate every possible scenario in every rule. Therefore, the determining factor relating to any article or rule in these Bylaws and Competition Rules shall be the intent of the rule, not whether there are specific words covering every situation. The interpretation of each article and rule by the THSBC shall be final and binding.

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COMPETITION RULES RULE 1 - STUDENT ELIGIBILITY: A. It shall be the responsibility of the sponsor/head coach of each participating school to ensure that all

players meet the eligibility requirements specified in Article 8 of the Bylaws. Use of an ineligible player shall result in the forfeiture of each game of each match in which the ineligible player participated.

B. Each player must also be eligible for USBC Youth membership. This means that no player may have participated in any type of bowling competition in which cash or merchandise are offered or awarded based on bowling score, bowling skill, or position. This includes bowling as a regular or as a substitute on any adult league. 1. A youth bowler who competes in a league as a USBC member in which only trophies are

awarded will still be eligible to compete in THSBC competition. 2. A youth bowler who competes in adult singles competitions that offer valuable merchandise

prizes or cash may also continue THSBC eligibility as long as, prior to the competition, the student signs a prize waiver refusing such awards or the competition organizers agree to substitute comparable scholarship awards which allows any winnings to be sent to the SMART program in his/her name in the form of scholarships.

C. Students may participate in USBC Youth sanctioned bowling leagues and/or tournaments at any time during the school season. U.I.L. eligibility is not affected by this competition. Any questions regarding this issue should be referred to the THSBC.

D. Any question pertaining to the eligibility requirements as set forth by the U.I.L. may be addressed to each Independent School District Athletic Director’s office. If a student is eligible for participation in a U.I.L. sanctioned sport, he/she shall be eligible to compete in the THSBC.

RULE 2 - TRYOUTS: Prior to the start of each season, each head coach shall coordinate with their host center proprietor to schedule team tryouts. Jointly, they shall determine the duration of tryouts and the method of determining team members. RULE 3 - PRACTICE: A. Each head coach shall coordinate with their host center proprietor at the start of each season to

determine the number and duration of practice sessions per week during the season. There shall be at least one formal practice session per week.

B. No more than 10 minutes practice will be allowed on the team’s starting pair of lanes prior to the start of a district match.

RULE 4 - PLAYING STRENGTH: A. Each team shall consist of no more than 5 players bowling at a time during each game from an 8

player roster. B. Bowlers may compete on either a varsity or junior varsity team during the season. However, during

each match a bowler may not compete for both a varsity and junior varsity team. RULE 5 - LEGAL LINEUP: Each team is expected to present a legal lineup (at least 3 players) on the lanes at the scheduled starting time for each match. At least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled starting time, the visiting coach shall provide their lineup with available substitutes, then the home coach. Once the lineup is entered, it cannot be changed except through substitution.

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RULE 6 - ABSENTEES: Absentees shall be awarded zero pinfall for frames or games missed. There shall be no vacancy score. If a bowler enters a game in other then the first frame, they are credited with whatever score they bowl. If there is an absentee for the entire game, no player is credited with zero score. RULE 7 - FORFEITURES: A. The winner of each forfeited match shall be awarded all points earned as a result of actual pinfall. B. A team which misses a match due to weather or other emergency must notify the host center and

district coordinator as soon as possible prior to the match. The district coordinator may rule, in these cases, that the match is a valid postponement and shall schedule a make-up date for the match. Otherwise, 1. A match will be declared forfeited if one team fails to appear within 30 minutes of the scheduled

starting time of the match or by the time the opposing team has completed its third frame of the first game providing the opposing team started bowling at the scheduled starting time of the match, whichever is sooner.

2. A game or match will be declared forfeited if one team fails to field at least three team members. RULE 8 - SUBSTITUTION: A. Substitutions may be made during or between games of any game in a match. B. If a substitution is made during a game, the player being substituted for may not return during that

game. C. During match play, a player substituted for may not return to the lineup in the succeeding game in

another seeded position. D. The opposing coach MUST BE NOTIFIED prior to the substitution being made. E. Scores bowled by more than one player shall be credited to the player who starts the game. RULE 9 - UNIFORMS & DRESS CODE A. Team Members

1. Team members must wear their school uniform and approved bowling shoes during competition. 2. Team shirts must be in the school colors and shall include the school name and/or logo. They

may also include the player’s name and host bowling center name. Shirt manufacturer’s name on the shirt is acceptable. However, there shall be no other commercial advertising on the shirts, such as a local company wishing to sponsor a school team.

3. Newer style bowling shirts with full collar or mock turtleneck are acceptable. Shirts must look neat and professional by socially accepted norms and they must represent their school well. T-shirts continue to be specifically prohibited.

4. Long pants (skirts optional for girls) shall be worn by all participants and they must be the same color. Blue jeans (blue in color), sweat pants, spandex, skinny jeans or jeggings, faded or washed-out pants or pants with holes are specifically prohibited. All attire is expected to be in good taste and hats are not authorized. Black jeans are considered acceptable for wear.

a. The above uniform requirement and dress code is mandatory for competition above district level.

b. During district competition, the District Executive Committee may waive the shirt and pants requirements until a specific date to allow students time to raise funds necessary to purchase or be provided uniforms.

B. Coaches are expected to wear the same uniform and meet the same requirements for shirt and pants as their players. Hats, shorts, flip-flops and other similar casual attire are prohibited.

March 29, 2014 - Page 15

RULE 10 - PLAYING AREA: During a match, only the participating bowlers, coaches and district officials shall be allowed in the playing area. The playing area shall be defined by the district coordinator at the start of the schedule in coordination with each host center. Substitutes and other interested parties must remain outside this playing area. All participating bowlers shall remain in the immediate bowling area while competition is in progress. Bowlers are expected to follow the previous bowler promptly.

a. All bowlers will observe one lane courtesy during a match. b. Foul lines shall be observed during match play. In the event of an inoperative automatic foul

detecting device, a human foul judge may be used. Deliberate fouls shall result in zero pinfall for that delivery with no further deliveries in that frame.

RULE 11 - SCHEDULE: Each district shall devise their own schedule, match format (within the limits described herein), and method of determining the winners of each match taking into consideration their district structure, distance between host centers, travel time, and other applicable factors. It is recommended that matches be scheduled on a home and away basis, i.e. each team shall bowl each other team twice, once at their home center and once at the opponent’s center. Position rounds are not recommended. RULE 12 - BYES: When a district starts the season with an uneven number of teams or a team is dismissed or withdraws and is not replaced, the team scheduled against the nonexistent team must bowl as if the match were contested and shall be credited with the win and be awarded all available points. District standings will thereafter be determined by winning percentage. RULE 13 - MATCH FORMAT: A. A match shall consist of competition between two schools. These matches will typically be held on a

weekday after school and should be completed within two hours. However, districts may hold matches involving three or more schools on other days.

B. Competition shall consist of two regular games of bowling in match play format (Round 1) and at least three, but no more than five team games using Baker format (Round 2).

C. Districts shall use a point system to determine the winner of a match by using an odd number of total points for each match in order to minimize ties.

D. Total points earned for the match shall range from 13 - 19 points. E. Total points for the team games (Baker Format) shall be worth no less than 50% of the total available

points for each match. Round 1 - Individual Match Play Format (5 - 7 Points) A. Team members shall be seeded #1 to #5 and shall bowl against their similarly seeded opponent on the

same pair of lanes. Coaches may seed their players at their discretion. The visiting team shall submit their lineup first. Then the home team shall seed their players and submit their lineup.

B. There shall be two bowlers assigned to each lane, e.g. #1 seeded boy & girl of each competing school on lanes 1-2 unless a district adopts another format due to lane availability.

C. Each team member shall bowl two standard games of American Tenpins. D. Each bowler earns 1 point for his/her school for highest total pins of the two-game match against

his/her opponent for a total of 5 points. E. The school with the highest total pinfall for all five members may earn an additional optional 2

points.

March 29, 2014 - Page 16

Round 2 - Team Games - Baker Format (8 - 12 points) A. Teams will then immediately bowl from 3 to 5 games in Baker Format. B. Teams shall alternate lanes for each frame (league play) unless a district adopts a rule allowing teams

to bowl an entire game on one lane, then alternate lanes for each succeeding game (open play). 1. If three games are played, 2 points will be awarded per game with 2 additional points awarded for

total pins for the three game block. (Total - 8 points) 2. If four games are played, 2 points will be awarded per game. Two additional points for total pins

for the four game block is optional. (Total - 8 or 10 points) 3. If five games are played, 2 points will be awarded per game. Two additional points for total pins

for the five game block is optional. (Total - 10 or 12 points) RULE 14 - STANDINGS: District standings shall consist of two separate parts: Wins & Losses and Points Won & Lost. The primary standings shall be wins and losses. The winning team of each match shall receive a win while the losing team of each match shall receive a loss. The secondary part of the standings shall consist of accumulated points won and lost per match. Example: Place School Wins Loses Win Pct. Pts Won Pts Lost 1 Alexander ........................ 12 ......... 2 ............. .857 ................... 189 .............. 49 2 Clifford ............................ 10 ......... 4 ............. .714 ................... 158 .............. 80 3 Donaldson ....................... 10 ......... 4 ............. .714 ................... 148 .............. 90 4 Parkinson ........................... 9 ......... 5 ............. .642 ................... 136 ............ 102 5 Waterford .......................... 7 ......... 7 ............. .500 ................ 118.5 ......... 119.5 6 Sierra Vista ........................ 4 ......... 10 ........... .286 ..................... 80 ............ 158 7 Erickson ............................ 3 ......... 11 ........... .214 .................. 64.5 ......... 173.5 8 Fort Wayne West .............. 1 ......... 13 ........... .071 ..................... 58 ............ 180 RULE 15 - TIES: A. Should a match end in a tie, a one-ball roll-off shall follow immediately.

1. Each team’s first bowler who started the final Baker Format game shall roll one ball and the team with the highest pinfall being the winner.

2. If teams are still tied, the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, then 5th bowlers in the lineup shall continue this process until the tie is broken.

B. Should there be a tie between two or more teams advancing to the post-season competition, the following tiebreaker system will be used. 3. If the teams tied have the same number of wins and losses, the cumulative points won in head-to-

head matches shall determine which team advances. 4. If a tie still exists, the team with the most total points won during district competition shall

advance. 5. If a tie still exists, a playoff shall be necessary to break the tie. A coin toss shall be used to

determine the host center for the playoff. The playoff match shall be conducted using the district’s regular season match format.

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RULE 16 - RECORDKEEPING: A. Automatic scoring devices in centers so equipped will perform scorekeeping for all matches. If a

center is not equipped with automatic scoring, scoring will be performed by an independent, unbiased third party. It will be the responsibility of head coaches to verify that scores are complete and accurate. It shall be the responsibility of the head coach of the home team to record the official scoring record and forward it within 24 hours to the District Coordinator.

B. The district coordinator shall maintain the official record of scores bowled in each match and points awarded. Each head coach should also maintain a record of that school’s match results.

RULE 17 - CONDUCT: Unsportsmanlike conduct including, but not restricted to, deliberate foot fouls, vulgar or profane language, cheating, or abuse of equipment or facilities shall not be permitted and may be cause for disqualification for the remainder of the match. A. At least one warning per individual bowler will be issued before disqualification is implemented. B. A head coach may disqualify only his/her own players. C. The district coordinator may disqualify any bowler. D. Subsequent misconduct may be cause of immediate disqualification without warning. E. A bowler disqualified may be replaced immediately in the lineup by the head coach. Scores bowled

by more than one player shall be credited to the player who starts the game. RULE 18 - ENFORCEMENT: Coaches of all participating schools are responsible for the enforcement of the district playing rules. In the event the competing head coaches cannot agree on a decision, the District Coordinator shall have the final say on enforcement, subject to appeal to the THSBC appeals committee. RULE 19 - PROTESTS & APPEALS: A. Only a head coach may submit a protest of a match. B. Protests of any match must be submitted to the district coordinator and the opposing head coach

immediately when an infraction occurs if it cannot be resolved. A written protest, outlining all specific details, will be submitted to the district coordinator within 24 hours of the completion of the match.

C. The district coordinator and a hearing committee comprised of a head coach from each district high school shall meet before the next scheduled match to determine the facts of the case and rule on the protest. The district coordinator shall vote only in case of a tie of committee members present.

D. Within 72 hours of the hearing, the aggrieved party may appeal the decision of the district hearing committee to the THSBC Appeals Committee. This committee shall meet as soon as possible in person or via teleconference to rule on the issue. The decisions of this committee are final.

RULE 20 - SUSPENSION: Head coaches and/or the district coordinator may suspend bowlers for an infraction of a playing rule for a period not to exceed three matches. A head coach may disqualify only his/her own players.

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RULE 21 - ALL-DISTRICT RECOGNITION: A. At the beginning of every season, the District Executive Committee shall approve an All-District

team program as a means of recognizing individual team members, but it shall not exceed 1st team, 2nd team, and Honorable Mention All-District. Each group should not exceed 5 players. To be considered, students must have completed 2/3 of the scheduled district games unless waived by the District Executive Committee.

B. All-District recognition in bowling is primarily performance-based. It is a means of recognizing those students who have performed better than their peers during district play. In bowling, the student’s average is obviously the primary factor to be considered. However, other factors could be considered, such as their match play won-loss record, character, sportsmanship and team leadership.

C. The district coordinator shall have a certificate (or other award) prepared for each player so recognized and presented at a suitable ceremony as well as have a suitable news release submitted to area media.

D. Only members of the All-District teams are eligible to compete in the THSBC All-District Team Tournament.

March 29, 2014 - Page 19

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING CLUB STUDENT ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY POLICY

The Texas High School Bowling Club (THSBC) requires all students to be academically eligible, according to U.I.L. standards, in order to compete in Club competition. Some basic facts: 1. Students must be passing all classes in which enrolled in order to participate in UIL athletics or other

UIL activities. 2. A grade of 70 or higher is considered a passing grade. 3. Students with a grade of 60-70 in AP classes may be considered passing with a waiver signed by the

responsible school official. 4. A “UIL List” is a document prepared by schools to show students who are not eligible to participate

in UIL athletics or other activities due to failing grades. 5. This UIL List, as mandated by state law, is not an open source document. It may be shown only to a

person so designated by the school or ISD on a need to know basis. 6. All students are academically eligible at the start of each school year assuming they have 5 credits

going into 10th grade, 10 credits going into 11th grade, and 15 credits going into 12th grade. 7. The first UIL check is after the first 6 week period of the school year. If a student is on the “UIL

List”, they are no longer eligible. 8. Students on this list may become eligible at the end of the next 3-week period if they are passing all

classes as noted on a Progress Report. This is commonly known as a “gain”. 9. At the end of the next 3-week period (2nd 6 weeks), an ineligible student may become eligible if

passing all classes, or they may become ineligible if failing one or more classes. 10. Thus, at the end of each 6-week grading period, there may be a “gain” or a “loss”. However, during

an interim 3-week period, there may be only a “gain”. 11. Schools on a 9-week grading period cycle must follow the same schedule except that if they are

failing at the end of the initial 6-week grade check, they may become eligible after the next 3-week check which, in their system, is the end of a grading period. If eligible at the end of that or any grading period, they remain eligible until the next 9 week grading period.

12. There is a 7-day grace period after a grade check or a reporting period for a student to become eligible or ineligible. For example, if grades come out on Friday, March 16, there is a 7-day window from the time school lets out on that Friday to change eligibility status. In other words, if school lets out at 4:00 p.m. that day, the student would regain eligibility or lose eligibility at 4:00 p.m., March 23.

The Texas High School Bowling Club requires a school sponsor to be appointed by the school principal. This may be a faculty or staff member according to the school or I.S.D. policies. The school sponsor shall ensure that a student on the UIL List is not competing in Club competition and that every student who is competing is academically eligible.

APPENDIX A - Page 1

March 29, 2014 - Page 20

However, in some cases, a school or I.S.D. may decide they will not assign a school sponsor for a club sport. If this is the case, they may refuse to allow the UIL list to be seen by another person because, by state law, they cannot divulge that information to a person without the need to know. The THSBC cannot force a school principal to assign a sponsor. Without an alternative, however, we could refuse participation of that school in THSBC activities, which may only hurt the students. Therefore, and as an alternative to having an assigned school sponsor and to ensure academic eligibility integrity is maintained, the following procedure will be used:

1. The head coach of the school bowling team has the ultimate responsibility to ensure all bowlers are academically eligible.

2. The head coach shall ask the responsible parent/guardian of the student bowler to provide a copy of the student’s grade report for each grading period during the bowling season and official progress reports as needed. This may be a paper copy of the official report card and/or progress report or viewed electronically through the student or parent portal.

3. The head coach shall review each grade report to ensure the student is passing all classes. 4. The head coach may maintain these documents until the completion of the season, at which time

they will be destroyed or returned to the parent/guardian. 5. At any point during the season, the District Coordinator may ask to see the grade reports for any

or all students on a school team to verify academic eligibility. 6. For school teams advancing beyond district level competition, the head coach shall provide to the

District Coordinator the roster of students on the team that will compete at regional and/or state competition along with the applicable and most recent grade report for the purpose of ensuring the students are academically eligible.

7. Should a parent/guardian refuse to allow their child’s grade report to be shown and maintained by the head coach, which is their right, the student will not be allowed to participate in Club competition.

Penalty for Noncompliance. As a minimum:

1. Any student who knowingly competes in Club competition while academically ineligible may be suspended for the remainder of the current season.

2. Any coach who knowingly allows a student to compete in Club competition while academically ineligible may be suspended from all Club activities for a finite period or indefinitely as decided by the Texas High School Bowling Club.

3. Any school sponsor who knowingly provides false information as to the academic eligibility of a student, i.e. allowing an ineligible student to participate, may be reported to the school principal. The principal may also be asked to assign a new sponsor for the school bowling team.

APPENDIX A - Page 2

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DUTIES OF THE DISTRICT COORDINATOR The Texas High School Bowling Club (THSBC) is comprised of autonomous districts which shall be administered by a District Coordinator so appointed by the State Coordinator. The district coordinator shall serve as the chair of the District Executive Committee, consisting of all head coaches, to act on any and all issues pertaining to conduct, eligibility, playing rules, and scoring systems. The District Coordinator must have an e-mail address and must have access to, and working knowledge of, Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel and Adobe Reader for receiving and printing .pdf documents. The district coordinator shall work with THSBC to recruit and retain schools in the district’s geographical area and shall have the authority to set policy, not in contravention with the THSBC Bylaws & Competition Rules; arrange schedules; and ensure participating schools adhere to playing rules. The specific duties of the district coordinator shall include, but are not limited to, the following and should be in coordination with the District Executive Committee.

1. Establish district rules as needed to supplement THSBC Bylaws and prepare the district schedule. 2. Determine the match point system and each center’s playing area for the District. 3. Determine the method and procedures for All-District Team recognition. 4. Enforce THSBC Bylaws and Competition Rules and any supplemental district playing rules. 5. Be familiar with suspension procedures in Rule 20 of the Bylaws & Competition Rules. 6. Report to the State Coordinator, no later than January 15, the complete district structure. This

will include the name of each school, whether they have a boys team and/or a girls team, any co-ed and/or co-op teams, and each school’s host center.

7. As necessary, verify academic eligibility of players on the team rosters. 8. Ensure all volunteer coaches not faculty/staff of the high schools are registered volunteers under

the USBC RVP program. 9. Maintain district records.

a. Retain the official record of scores bowled and points awarded in each district match. b. If feasible, forward match results, current standings and a news article, to area media as soon

as possible after each match. c. Forward current standings weekly to the TBCA webmaster, Eric Godwin,

(bowltexarkana@aol.com) for inclusion to the web site: www.texasbowlingcenters.org. d. Ensure the head coach of each team and singles entrant advancing to regional and/or state

competition forwards necessary entry forms to the appropriate Regional Tournament Director for Regionals and the THSBC State Coordinator for the state tournaments by the deadline published on the respective entry forms.

e. Encourage coaches to certify their bowlers using a recognized method established by USBC through www.bowl.com/highschool.

8. Submit a district participation data report (total number of boys and girls who competed during the season) to the THSBC State Coordinator by March 15 annually as well as any other reports requested by THSBC.

9. Receive protests of any given match within 24 hours of the completion of that match, schedule a hearing with members of the District Executive Committee, determine the facts of the case, and rule on the protest. The district coordinator shall vote only in case of a tie of committee members present.

APPENDIX B

March 29, 2014 - Page 22

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING CLUB CONSENT AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY

For and in consideration of my son/daughter’s participation on the High School Bowling Team, the undersigned parent/guardian agrees as follows:

1. I and my son/daughter consent to my son/daughter’s participation.

2. I and my son/daughter assume any and all risk, known and unknown, associated with such activity including transportation to and from the events and practices.

3. I understand that my son/daughter’s participation on the High School Bowling Team involves the

risk of injury to my son/daughter, whether caused by my son/daughter or something or someone else. In consideration for being allowed to participate in this activity I and/my son/daughter (Releasing Parties) agree that the school district, its employees, coaches and related organizations; the sponsoring bowling center and Texas Bowling Centers Association; and all adult leaders (Released Parties) will not be liable for any injury, including, without limitation, bodily or emotional injury, loss or damage of any kind to my son/daughter or myself, and Releasing Parties release the Released Parties of and from any and all liability from this activity resulting from the negligence, strict liability or other fault of Released Parties and covenant not to sue Released Parties in the event of any injury or loss associated with my son/daughter’s participation on the High School Bowling Team.

4. I authorize the designated person in authority to approve and authorize emergency medical

treatment to my child in the absence of the parent/guardian should it become necessary.

5. I understand that the Texas High School Bowling Club (THSBC) requires that all students be academically eligible, according to UIL standards, in order to compete in Club competition. A school sponsor should be appointed by the school principal, who shall ensure that each student is academically eligible. If the school does not provide a sponsor for this task, then I authorize a designated person in authority to check my child’s grades in order to ensure that he/she is fully academically eligible.

I have read and understand this document and voluntarily enter into it. Parent/Guardian Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ________________________ Son/Daughter: Signature: ___________________________________ Date: ________________________ Name of Son/Daughter: ___________________________________________ Emergency Phone Number: _________________________________________________

APPENDIX C

March 29, 2014 - Page 23

TEXAS HIGH SCHOOL BOWLING CLUB Frequently Asked Questions

Subject Q # Page 5th Year Eligibility ..................................................................21...............................................28 A.P. Courses & Eligibility .........................................................4...............................................24 Adult League/Tournament Competition ....................................1...............................................23 Alternating Lanes .......................................................................2...............................................24 Alternative School ...................................................................18...............................................27 Average Tie to Advance to Regional Singles ..........................19...............................................27 Award of Equipment ................................................................11...............................................26 Co-op Teams ............................................................................13...............................................26 Eligibility if Graduated ............................................................12...............................................26 Eligibility Change for Makeup ................................................16...............................................27 Girls Advancing to Regional ...................................................17...............................................27 Home Schooled Students .........................................................14...............................................26 J.V. Teams .................................................................................3...............................................24 Letter Jackets ...........................................................................10...............................................25 Overtime (Ties) ..........................................................................9...............................................25 Special Needs Students ............................................................15...............................................26 Sponsors, Corporate ...................................................................5...............................................24 Stipend, Coach’s ........................................................................6...............................................24 Sunday/Holiday Matches ...........................................................8...............................................25 Tardy Bowlers ..........................................................................20...............................................27 Varsity/J.V. Participation ...........................................................7...............................................25 Q1: A student bowled in an USBC adult league last season, but is not bowling in one this year. Is he eligible to compete in the High School Bowling program this year? A1: If the league awards cash prizes, students are not eligible to compete in High School Bowling. However, a student may apply for and receive USBC Youth eligibility reinstatement through his local USBC association and the national USBC. If that is done, he would be eligible. If the league were one that awards only trophies, the student would be eligible. Additionally, if a student competes in any type of adult singles competition in which cash prizes are awarded, he/she is not eligible to compete in Texas High School Bowling Club competition unless he/she signs a prize waiver refusing such awards or the competition organizers agree to substitute comparable scholarship awards managed through the USBC SMART program.

APPENDIX D - Page 1

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Q2. During the Baker Format games, should the teams alternate lanes or bowl on the same lane? A2. There is no set policy on this, but we recommend you set it up in league format, i.e. each school will alternate lanes each frame. That eliminates the “my lane is worse than your lane” excuse. But, it really depends on the host center’s scoring system. Some find it easier alternating lanes and some the other way. Whichever system you use, it should be the same for the entire district. Remember that during regional and state competition, teams alternate lanes each frame. Q3: Some of the schools in our district do not have both a boys and girls J.V. team. What should we do with the schools that do have J.V. teams on those match dates? If the same school later in the season has enough players to field a J.V. Team, can they then compete? A3: They should bowl if they want to get a win by forfeit. By bowling, the team present will win points by forfeit. All the J.V. kids can gain something from the experience of bowling in this format, even though they do not have an opponent. If one school does not have either J.V. boys or girls teams and the other school does, there is nothing to preclude you from letting the boys and girls J.V. teams from competing against each other in the Baker games -- just for the sake of competing against each other. If later the school has enough players for a J.V. team, they would then pick up wherever they were at in the standings. Q4: Is a student academically eligible if they are failing an A.P. course? A4: We are aware that there are grade waivers available to students taking Advanced Placement courses. The recommendation of the THSBC is to discuss the particular situation with the I.S.D. Athletic Director or campus Athletic Coordinator. If the student would be eligible to compete in U.I.L. athletics, they would be eligible for THSBC competition. If not eligible for U.I.L. sports, they would not be eligible for THSBC competition. Q5: We have a business in town that is willing to underwrite the cost of the shirts for all players on our school’s team. Can we put that sponsor’s name on the shirts? A5: Unfortunately, no. Rule 9 - Uniforms & Dress Code, of the THSBC Bylaws & Competition Rules state that only the name and logo of the school, the sponsoring bowling center name, and the individual players’ names are all that are allowed on the uniform shirt. Q6: I’m not clear on what I should pay the coach/faculty sponsor for the schools we are sponsoring. Plus, what do we really get for paying that stipend? A6: We recommend that each school sponsor/head coach be provided with a stipend of $500. We further recommend that $250 be paid at the beginning of the season and the final $250 at the end of the season. What return you get for your investment is up to you. However, here are some of the things that you can ask for: (1) verify the eligibility of each student on the team; (2) conduct the practices and teach the students to bowl or to bowl better; (3) encourage the students to enroll in your center’s youth program where they will be able to get additional instruction and experience; (4) assist is fund raising events to help offset any costs.

APPENDIX D - Page 2

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Q7: Can a student compete on both the varsity and J.V. Teams? A7: Yes, but not in the same match. A student may be on the varsity for the first few matches of the season and then be dropped down to the junior varsity. Likewise, the coach may call up a junior varsity player at anytime during the season. The only stipulation is that in any one particular match (consisting of both match play and Baker Format team competition), a student may not compete on both the varsity and J.V. teams. For example, a student may not compete on the J.V. during the regular games of bowling in a match between School A and School B and then come in during the Baker Format games and compete as a varsity player. Q8: Can we schedule matches on Sunday or on school holidays? A8: We’re in a gray area here that may vary from district to district. The U.I.L. does not allow competition on Sunday except in an emergency situation. Until the U.I.L. does approve bowling as an approved varsity sport, we can certainly schedule matches on Sunday if necessary. However, we would encourage all districts to refrain from doing this unless absolutely necessary. Scheduling matches on school holidays is similar. Some I.S.D.s, but not all, do not allow competition on school holidays for any reason. The best bet here would be for the district coordinator to determine which schools are not allowed to compete on school holidays and schedule matches for those schools accordingly. Q9: What happens if a match ends in a tie? A9: We have addressed that issue in Rule 14 of the THSBC Bylaws and Competition Rules. If a match ends in a tie, i.e. overtime, the first bowler in the lineup for the last team game (Baker Format) for each team will roll one ball with the highest pinfall determining the winner. If they are still tied, the second bowlers in the lineup will also throw one ball at a full rack. This procedure will continue until the tie is broken. If an individual game ends in a tie, then each team receives ½ credit for the points available for that particular game. Q10: Can we purchase letter jackets for our players? A10: Maybe. U.I.L. rules specify that each student-athlete may receive only one “major” award in their career. Therefore, if the student is in a U.I.L. approved sport in which he/she will receive a letter jacket, you should not purchase them one. It could affect their eligibility in future U.I.L. activities. Also, each I.S.D. may have some stipulations as to style and what may be put on each letter jacket. Since bowling is a Club Sport in Texas, school funds will undoubtedly not be used to purchase jackets, but there appears to be no reason why funds raised by booster clubs could not be used for that purpose for students who won’t otherwise get one. We strongly recommend, however, that your school district athletic director or school principal be contacted to determine exactly what the requirements or stipulations are prior to purchasing letter jackets for your students.

APPENDIX D - Page 3

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Q11: Can a student receive a bowling ball or other equipment as an award? A11: No, this would not be legal under the U.I.L. Rules. A student may receive one $60 award per activity during their high school years (usually a jacket). The amateur rule has changed. Under the old rules any award in any activity would make a student ineligible in all activities. Under the current rule a violation only applies to the activity in which the award was received. Q12: If a student has enough credits to graduate in December, but will not be attending graduation ceremonies until May with the rest of his class, will he still be eligible to compete the second half of the High School Bowling season with the team? A12: According to Section 400, Subchapter M of the U.I.L. Manual, a student is not eligible to compete if they are a high school graduate. Once they’ve earned their credits to graduate, the school district will not allow them to continue in school. We are applying that rule to our bowling program also. If a student wants to graduate in the Spring with the rest of his class, he could take part of the hours needed one semester, and the rest the next. However, they must take a full load of classes both semesters in order to be eligible according to U.I.L. This means that a student must be a “full time student” to be eligible. A full time student is one who is enrolled and participating in at least 50% of the class periods offered by a school in a given school day. Q13: If a school does not have enough players to field a team, can they use students from another high school in the same I.S.D. or another I.S.D.? A13: Yes, you can. However, that falls under the co-op team rule in Article 10G - Team Structure in our bylaws. That team cannot compete beyond the district level. Also, prior approval must be granted by THSBC to field a co-op team. Also, the school at which those players are enrolled may not also be in the program in any other district. Q14: Can Home School students be included on a high school team? If not, will they be able to compete in the future? A14: No. This is the Texas High School Bowling Club. Home schooled students are not eligible to compete. They will probably not be eligible to compete in the future. Q15: Are “special needs” students eligible to compete on a high school team? A15: Yes. All students properly enrolled in grades 9-12 of the school competing in our High School Bowling program are eligible to tryout and compete assuming they meet the academic, enrollment, and residency requirements. Therefore, special needs students are no different. The head coach has the authority and responsibility to determine who will make the team and who will not and they made those decisions based on their own criteria. There may be some legal requirements that must be addressed and you should contact your school principal or athletic director to determine those requirements.

APPENDIX D - Page 4

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Q16: If a match is postponed when a student is ineligible due to grades and is rescheduled after the school has a “gain” period and that student is now eligible, would that student be eligible to bowl? A16: Yes. Although he would not have been eligible on the originally scheduled date, the fact that he is eligible for the make-up date allows him to compete. In other words, a student’s eligibility is based on their current situation. Q17: If a girl is bowling on a co-ed team in the boys division, can she advance to regional and state in the girls singles division? A17: Yes. While girls are allowed to bowl with the boys in team competition, the singles division is gender specific. She can only advance in singles in the girls division. Q18: If a student is sent to Alternative School, can they continue to compete? A18: It depends. Normally, if a student is sent to an alternative school campus for other than disciplinary reasons, i.e. credit recovery, they would be able to continue to compete. If they are sent there for disciplinary reasons, they would probably not be able to continue. If this situation occurs, the best course of action would be to ask your I.S.D. Athletic Director or campus Athletic Coordinator. The question to ask is, “If this were a U.I.L. sport, could they continue to compete?” Whatever that answer is, go with it. Q19: We have 3 bowlers in our district who tied in average with a 179 for the final position to advance to the Regional Singles Tournament. How do we break the tie? A19: Take the average out to the number of decimal places you need to break the tie. In the example below, Bowler C has the highest average and therefore would advance. If they had the exact same average, then you should have a roll-off. The details of that roll-off should be by mutual agreement between the coaches of the students involved or by the District Executive Committee. Total Pins Games Average Bowler A ....................2,871...............16....................179.4375 Bowler B ....................3,230...............18....................179.4444 Bowler C ....................3,589...............20....................179.4500 Q20: We had to start a match play game without a bowler. He came in and could have started bowling in the 7th frame. Should we let him start then or leave him out until the 2nd game? A20: We would strongly recommend you sit him until the 2nd game. If you let him bowl a few frames, whatever score he bowls goes on his permanent score record. In other words, if he has a 200 average bowling complete games and only scores 60 over the final 3 frames, he gets credit for a game score of 60 and that will certainly reduce his average.

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Q21: A special needs student is in his 5th year of high school and has bowled on the high school team the last 4 years. Will he be allowed to bowl this year since it is his 5th year? A21: Unfortunately, no. All students will be eligible to bowl for only 4 years beginning the year they first enroll as a Freshman. There is no medical or academic redshirt or any other type of policy that would allow a student to compete beyond their normal 4 years of school.

APPENDIX D - Page 5