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Mount Saint Mary Academy

Student Athletic Manual

Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto, RSM, Ed.S

Directress

Denise E. Materia

Assistant Directress

Director of Athletics

X4516

Athletic Trainer

X5053

Robert Trautner

Athletic Facilities Manager

Mount Saint Mary Academy

1645 Rt. 22

Watchung, NJ 07069-6587

School Phone (908)757-0108

Athletic Fax (908)756-0255

Athletic Schedule

www.skylandconferencenj.org

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Coaches by Season

Fall

Cross Country Tennis Field Hockey

Andre Bridgett Ryan Shellhammer Varsity: Lauren Davis

Junior Varsity: TBA

Volleyball Soccer

Varsity: Darek Libucha Varsity: Head Coach: Philip Iuliano

Junior Varsity: Ryan Gelenitis Junior Varsity: Emily O’Halloran

Freshman: TBA

Winter

Basketball Swimming Indoor Track

Freshman: Stephen Muratore Megan Decker Andre Bridgett

Junior Varsity: Marissa Maffei Assistant: Allison DiGiovanni Assistant: TBA

Varsity: Ryan Shellhammer

Spring

Lacrosse Softball Track and Field

Varsity: Matthew Anzalone Varsity: Denise Materia Andre Bridgett

Junior Varsity: Emily Mumford Assistant: Sister Lisa Gambacorto Assistant: TBA

Junior Varsity: Stephen Muratore

Golf

Ryan Shellhammer

Sister Lee Ann Amico

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ALMA MATER

Mount Saint Mary, we do hail thee

Alma Mater, fond and true:

Loyal daughters, sing your praises,

Raise your colors, gold, red, and blue.

Glory, honor, steadfast loyalty,

Though we roam from shore to shore,

Mount Saint Mary, Alma Mater

Our hearts will love and praise thee evermore,

Mount Saint Mary, Alma Mater

Our hearts will love and praise thee evermore

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Welcome to Mount Athletics! Mount Saint Mary Academy participates in the New Jersey State

Interscholastic Athletic Association, Independent Schools Athletic Association and the Skyland

Conference. We offer a wide variety of sports each season as listed below:

FALL

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

CROSS COUNTRY X X X

FIELD HOCKEY X X

SOCCER X X

TENNIS X

VOLLEYBALL X X X

WINTER

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

BASKETBALL X X X

SWIMMING X

TRACK X X

SPRING

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

LACROSSE X X

SOFTBALL X X

TRACK & FIELD X X X

GOLF X

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Preface

Participation in Mount Athletics is not a right of all students but rather a privilege afforded to students

that possess ability, positive attitude, cooperative spirit, and desire to represent the Mount Saint Mary

Academy in a positive and respectful way.

The Athletic Department strives to offer a diverse program that will allow for all students willing to work

hard and show commitment to find a place to compete.

Athletics has unique standards and expectations in the areas of academics, training, commitment, and

sportsmanship that must be adhered to.

Our coaching staff is acutely aware of the philosophy of the Mount Athletic program as well as the values

of Mount Saint Mary Academy. We strive to hire the most knowledgeable staff that is a fit for our school

community. All coaches are responsible to uphold and follow the policies and procedures found in the

Coaches’ Handbook. Our coaching staff tries to instill the values consistent with the philosophy of

Mount Saint Mary Academy.

Philosophy

The Athletic Department of Mount Saint Mary Academy views interscholastic athletics as an integral part

of the total educational process in which student athletes are challenged to develop their full potential. In

our athletic program students have a forum to develop their skills and fine tune their abilities. In doing so

they will experience a sense of self-accomplishment knowing they have achieved their personal best.

Athletes learn to work within a group, develop dedication to their teams, and make personal sacrifices for

the common good.

Athletics, by nature, provide a significant opportunity to instill the qualities of personal integrity, honesty

and self discipline. Competitive athletics demand dedication, excellence, determination and courage. It

takes courage to give 100% of self, have humility in victory and graciousness in defeat. The athlete puts

forth the best of herself and together with her team represents the best of Mount Saint Mary Academy.

Goals

1. To continue to have a sound athletic program that is representative of the core values of Mount

Saint Mary Academy

2. To develop in each student athlete a sense of pride in oneself, the team, and the school

community

3. To develop in student athletes self control, self discipline, and a strong work ethic.

4. To provide student athletes the opportunity to exhibit good sportsmanship and respect for others

as a means of learning good citizenship.

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5. To provide students the opportunity to celebrate successes and experience disappointment with

dignity.

6. To provide significant opportunity for student athletes to work towards achieving goals

demonstrating the skills of cooperation and teamwork.

7. To provide student athletes with experiences that develop problem solving, reasoning, decision

making, and critical thinking skills.

Attendance

Athletic Attendance Successful athletic programs depend on commitment and hard work. To that end Mount Saint Mary

Academy has required that student athletes attend all practices and games. It is important that athletes

understand that they are expected to be loyal to their team and live up to their commitments.

Any player that accumulates more than two absences other than school absences, from preseason,

practices or games will be dismissed from the team. The request for an excused absence must be

submitted in writing at least two weeks in advance to the athletic director and will be granted only in very

unique and special situations. Any player that misses a game or practice may be subject to reduced

playing time or loss of a starting position as determined by the coach, even if the absence is excused.

Students absent due to illness or injury must bring a doctor’s note upon return. Every student planning to

try out for a team must attend preseason. All fall sports begin on or about August 17th. Practices and

games for all sports will be scheduled on days that the school is closed and throughout vacations. The

winter athletic schedule will include activities during the Christmas and trimester breaks. Spring sports

will have practices and games over Easter and Memorial Day vacations. No athlete may participate on a

Varsity, Junior Varsity or Freshman team who is unable to attend practices or games over school

vacations. If a student is absent from practice or games over a long weekend or a vacation, the student

will be dismissed from the team. Absence for medical reasons requires a doctor’s note. This policy

includes all school sponsored events. Individual coaches are not permitted to grant an exemption to this

policy. A school sponsored day event may be excused at the discretion of the Athletic Director in

consultation with the coach.

School Attendance Policy

Team members who are unable to participate due to injury or illness are expected to attend practices or

games when present in school. Team members may not participate in athletics if they are absent from

school. Athletes must be in school by 10:15 A.M. to be eligible to play. Student athletes arriving to

school late will be subject to the disciplinary procedures outlined in the student handbook.

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Game Attendance

Team members must remain in attendance at both Varsity and Junior Varsity games at the discretion of

the coach. Coaches must inform prospective team members of their policy prior to the season.

Extra Help Sessions

Students may miss portions of practice time to attend academic extra help sessions or to make up tests or

quizzes. The Athletic Department must have a pass from the teacher to give to the coach.

Half Days

On half days the Student Center will be available to athletes waiting for practice. No team member may

leave campus unless prior authorization is granted (senior privilege). Notarized permission slips are

required. Students are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Food is available for purchase in the snack

shack. School personnel are not responsible for supervising student athletes who are waiting for practice.

School Detention

Detentions will be served on the date assigned regardless of the athletic schedule. It is our expectation

that athletes will follow all school rules and avoid the conflict of detention. School detentions are not an

excused absence from athletics.

Athletic Camps

While the Athletic Department encourages our student athletes to improve their basic skills by

participation in summer camps, it must be understood that all such activities are purely voluntary.

Parents and student athletes should be aware that participation in summer camp and leagues does

not in any way guarantee the player a position on any school team in the years following her

participation in the camp or league.

The School insurance policy, which covers student athletes during the school year, does not cover

injuries incurred during summer camps or leagues.

Cancellation and Postponement of Practices and Games

The Director of Athletics will inform the main office and have the information posted on

schedulestar.com of all cancellations and postponements as soon as possible. Announcements will be

made to students using the public address system when possible.

If school is dismissed early for weather reasons all games and practices are considered canceled.

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If snow causes the closing of school on a particular day, athletic events/practices may still be held

later in the day or evening. That decision will be made by the Director of Athletics in

consultation with the Director of Facilities. Students/Parents will be notified by email and phone

chain.

Outdoor practices may be canceled due to inclement weather at the coach’s discretion. Student athletes

will be notified as soon as possible over the school’s public address system.

Parents and fans are encouraged to check www.skylandconferencenj.org for cancellation and

postponement updates.

Captains

Captains are an integral part of all athletic teams. The selection of team captains is the responsibility of

the coach. The coach may choose to select the team captains or allow the team to vote. All team

members will be considered regardless of grade level. The criteria includes: leadership abilities, team

dedication, a positive attitude and the ability to communicate with the coach and team. Team captains

must get along with peers and be available for their captain responsibilities.

Expectations of a Team Captain:

Communicate with your coach to keep him/her informed about team issues

Be positive. Positive thinking is contagious.

Be disciplined on and off the field.

Work to develop team unity. Treat all team members with respect.

Changing for Practice/Games

All athletes must change for practice in the locker room or the large bathroom in Saint Joe’s adjacent to

the School Store. Changing for practice in other areas of the school including hallways, parking lots, or

gymnasium foyer is prohibited.

Clubs and Activities

Athletic practices will begin at 3:30 to accommodate club participation. Athletes need to be dismissed at

3:15 to change before athletic practice. Two exceptions include Freshman Basketball which will begin at

3pm due to the scheduling of practices in the gymnasium and JV softball which requires transportation to

an off-campus site.

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Participation in school activities often creates considerable conflicts with athletics. It is important for

students to discuss possible conflicts with the activity moderators and the Director of Athletics prior to

committing to team participation. Students and parents should investigate whether an activity is going to

conflict with athletics prior to accepting membership on a team.

College Signing – National Letter of Intent

Mount Saint Mary Academy is proud to celebrate with Senior Athletes signing college Letters of Intent.

If you would like to sign at the Mount please contact Denise Materia.

Some parameters for signing:

Please contact Ms. Materia with 3 possible dates and times for the signing. Before 8am-9am

generally works out well.

Parents, siblings, and outside coaches are welcome to attend. Student athletes are responsible for

letting people know they are signing.

Contact your Guidance Counselor and Mount coach – if possible, they will want to attend.

Communication

A) Coaches

Each coach will have an email distribution list including parents and student athletes so that

all are aware of schedule changes and team related information.

It is strongly recommended that parents encourage their daughters to have open

communication with the coach. This generates growth and maturity and enables the coach to

speak directly to the student athlete to answer questions or concerns.

If a meeting between a coach and athlete does not solve the problem it is recommended that

the parents call or email the coach for an appointment. Catching coaches following a contest

is never appropriate.

B) Director of Athletics

If a meeting between the coach and parent proves to be unsatisfactory, the parent is asked to contact the

Director of Athletics at (908)757-0108 x4516 or dmateria@mountsaintmary.org

Selection to a team, captain or varsity status, awards, and playing time are decisions made by the coaches.

The Director of Athletics and the School Administration will not instruct the coaches whom to play or

keep on the team. Appropriate meeting topics include:

Concern about treatment of athletes, mentally or physically

Concerns of student athlete behavior

Lack of communication from coach.

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Communication you should expect from the coach:

Expectations the coach has for a student athlete

Locations and times of practice sessions and contests, as well as practice cancellations

Team requirements

Prompt reply to phone or email messages

Concussion Policy

Please see Appendix A

Dismissal From Team

If a student quits a team or is put off a team she is not eligible to participate on another Varsity or Junior

Varsity team for a full year. Special considerations may be made for unique situations by the Athletic

Director, in consultation with the Directress.

Drug Testing / Use

All athletes are subject to random drug testing for banned substances as outlined in the N.J.S.I.A.A.

steroid testing policy.

Performance Enhancing Drugs

It shall be considered a violation of the Sportsmanship Rule for any student-athlete to possess, ingest, or

otherwise use any of the substances 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. Any person who tests positive in an NJSIAA-administered test, or any person who refuses

to provide a testing sample, or any person who reports his or her own violation, will immediately

forfeit his or her eligibility to participate in NJSIAA competition for a period of one year from the

date of the test. Any such person will also forfeit any individual honor earned while in violation. No

person who tests positive, refuses to provide a test sample, or who reports his or her own violation

will resume eligibility until he or she has undergone counseling and produced a negative test result.

The NJSIAA policy shall consist of this general prohibition, the NJSIAA Steroid Testing Procedures, the

NJSIAA Steroid Testing Protocol, and the NJSIAA Banned Drug Classes.

Any athlete found to be using performance enhancing drugs will be subject to discipline as outlined in the

Academy’s Student Handbook.

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Alcohol / Tobacco In addition to the penalties stated in the student handbook, any student athlete that possesses or used

tobacco, alcohol or any other illegal drug may be suspended from participation in athletics as determined

by the Administration and Athletic Director. The student athlete will be required to attend practice and

games for the length of the suspension but will not be permitted to participate.

Eligibility Rule/NJSIAA

The NJSIAA has certain criteria for eligibility in interscholastic athletics. They are as follows:

Age – An athlete becomes ineligible for high school athletics if she attains the age of nineteen

prior to September 1 of any school year.

Credits, as outlined in the Academic Section on page 2

All athletes participating on a high school team must have an amateur status – an amateur athlete

is one who participates in athletes solely for the physical, mental, social, and educational benefits

derived from such participation. The amateur athlete treats all athletic activities in which she

participates as an avocational endeavor. One who takes or has taken pay, or has accepted the

promise of pay, in any form, for participation in athletics or has directly or indirectly used her

athletic skill for pay in any form shall not be considered an amateur and will not be eligible for

high school interscholastic athletics in the State of New Jersey.

Semester of Eligibility – no student shall be eligible for high school athletics after the expiration

of eight consecutive semesters following her entrance into the 9th grade. A student becomes

ineligible for high school athletics when the class in which she was originally enrolled has

graduated.

Pre-High School Students – Students in any 6th, 7th, or 8th grades of any school who play on 9th

grade or so-called freshman or sophomore, junior varsity and varsity teams will be ineligible at

the conclusion of eight consecutive semesters of such participation. Please notify the Athletic

Director if you have played on a high school team prior to enrolling in High School.

Academic Eligibility

Academic Policy - Team members must be eligible for competition according to N.J.S.I.A.A. standards:

a. To be eligible for athletic competition during the first semester of the 10th grade of

higher, a pupil must have passed 27.5 credits [30 beginning with the Class of 2014]

during the immediately preceding academic year

b. To be eligible for athletic competition during the second semester of the 9th grade or

higher, a pupil must have passed 13.75 credits [15 beginning with the Class of 2014]

In addition, any student that has a failing grade on her report card or progress report will be put on

probation until a note from her teachers (stating that her work has improved) is given to the athletic

department.

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Equipment / Uniforms

The Mount collects a uniform bond at the beginning of the year/season of $200. Late fees and

lost item replacement will be deducted from the bond. In the event part of the bond is used, the

remainder will be returned and a new bond will be collected the next year. Otherwise the bond

will be returned at the close of the senior year.

All equipment and uniform items distributed by coaches is marked by name/number for the

purpose of maintaining accurate records. Any equipment or uniforms issued to athletes will be

recorded on an inventory distribution form to be used by coaches for collection purposes at the

conclusion of the season. All athletic equipment and uniforms issued to athletes must be returned

to the coach cleaned and promptly at the conclusion of each season.

Athletes will be held accountable for any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment and must pay the

replacement charge for that item(s).

School-issued equipment should be secured at all times. Do not leave game gear in unlocked

lockers. Again, lost, stolen or damaged equipment is the responsibility of the student athlete and

he/she will be charged the replacement cost.

Issuing of equipment for out of season or summer use is prohibited unless specifically approved

by the Athletic Director. This may only occur in cases involving “special expensive” equipment

that athletes are not required to provide on their own (e.g. field hockey goalie equipment). This

equipment may be rented and used for attendance at a camp.

Every coach will have two announced uniform return days. A fee of twenty dollars per day will

be deducted from the uniform bond for every school day that the uniform is not returned beyond

the collection days.

Uniform purchases are made on a rotating basis with each team getting new uniforms

approximately every five years.

The Mount does not purchase disposable items such as Under Armour, hats, socks, and bathing

suits which may be required for team participation.

Game Day Attire All athletes are expected to wear school issued/purchased or approved attire for games. This includes the

uniform, warm-ups, shooting shirts and bathing suits. Game day wear must be in school colors: blue,

gold, red, and white. Optional apparel designed and purchased by team is not considered game day attire

Team Apparel All purchases of apparel or any team items must be done through the Athletic Director. No student may

collect monies for the purpose of purchasing items. All purchases will be made by the Director of

Athletics. The school name may not be placed on any item without authorization. All apparel will have

the full school name and be in the colors navy, red, and white.

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Hazing

“Hazing” refers to any activity expected of someone joining a group (or to maintain full status in a

group) that humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person's

willingness to participate. Hazing is any intentional action taken, situation created, or any conduct or

method of initiation into any school organization, club, or team which denies a person her individual

rights or results in mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, or endangerment.

The following are some examples of hazing divided into three categories: subtle, harassment, and violent.

It is impossible to list all possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific. While this is not

an all-inclusive list, it provides some common examples of hazing traditions.

A. SUBTLE HAZING:

Behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between new members/rookies and other members of the

group or team. Termed “subtle hazing” because these types of hazing are often taken-for-granted or

accepted as “harmless” or meaningless. Subtle hazing typically involves activities or attitudes that breach

reasonable standards of mutual respect and place new members/rookies on the receiving end of ridicule,

embarrassment, and/or humiliation tactics. New members/rookies often feel the need to endure subtle

hazing to feel like part of the group or team. (Some types of subtle hazing may also be considered

harassment hazing).

Some Examples:

Deception

Deprivation of privileges granted to other members

Requiring new members/rookies to perform duties not assigned to other members

Socially isolating new members/rookies

Name calling

B. HARASSMENT HAZING: Behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical discomfort in order

to feel like part of the group. Harassment hazing confuses, frustrates, and causes undue stress for new

members/rookies. (Some types of harassment hazing can also be considered violent hazing).

Some Examples:

Verbal abuse

Threats or implied threats

Asking new members to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire

Expecting new members/rookies to perform personal service to other members such as carrying

books

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C. VIOLENT HAZING : Behaviors that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional, or

psychological harm.

Some Examples:

Forced or coerced alcohol or other drug consumption

Beating, paddling, or other forms of assault

Forced or coerced ingestion of vile substances or concoctions

Public nudity

Abductions/kidnaps

Exposure to cold weather or extreme heat without appropriate protection

Hazing in any form will not be tolerated and may result in suspension or expulsion from athletics, in

addition to any penalties imposed in the Academy Student Handbook under Discipline and the

Harassment Mutual Respect Policy. Mount Saint Mary Academy will contact the authorities for any and

all unlawful acts.

Medical Issues / Injuries

Daily Reporting and Recording of Injuries It is the student athletes’ responsibility to report to the ATC and Coach all athletic injuries associated with

athletic participation immediately.

When an ATC learns of such an injury, she will notify the appropriate Coach or Coaches. Similarly when

a Coach learns of an injury he/she will notify the ATC. The ATC will make the necessary medical

referrals as indicated.

Injury Communication

It is the serious obligation of the athlete during her season to inform the athletic trainer if she has

seen, or has an appointment to see, a physician or other healthcare professional for an injury or

illness that will affect her ability to participate in athletics. To ensure consistency of injury care

between the Mount Saint Mary Academy athletic department and outside healthcare providers,

any student-athlete who sees a physician or other healthcare provider for a condition which

does/may affect her participation in school sports must provide a note to our athletic trainer from

their healthcare provider indicating:

Injury/condition

Participation Status

Any additional recommendations, limitations, and/or specific instructions

Please make sure you give your doctor’s note directly to the athletic trainer. After you give your

note to the athletic trainer, she will provide you with a pass to give to your coach. The pass will

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make your coach aware of your participation status. Notes are needed to excuse a student athlete

from practice/games and to return to participation.

It is very important that an injured student athlete follows up with the athletic trainer the day

following the injury and regularly as the injury progresses. The athletic trainer can facilitate

healing of the injury via rehabilitative techniques and modalities including electric stim,

ultrasound, therapeutic exercise, bracing and taping.

The athletic trainer and/or school nurse can require a student athlete to see a physician if they

feel an injury/illness warrants it.

1. Athletic Training

Certified athletic trainers, also known as ATCs, are medical professionals who specialize in the

prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses that occur in athletes

and the physically active.

As your child’s athletic trainer, I ensure that she remains healthy and is able to participate in

practices and games. My primary responsibilities are injury prevention, reduction of further injury

by administering immediate care, development and implementation of rehabilitation programs

and development of appropriate policies, including return-to-play.

2. Concussion Policy – Please see Appendix A

Money

School-Wide Activities

FUNDRAISING

No student, parent, faculty/staff member may raise or collect money for any purpose without submitting a

written request for approval to the Directress. Money may not be raised or collected without written

authorization by the Directress.

PURCHASES

Purchasing and Accounts Payable

For purchasing and accounts payable procedures, please review forms found in the Business Office Forms

folder online.

Faculty/Staff planning to collect money from students or parents for class trips or other events or

fundraisers need to first complete a Financial Information Form and have it approved by the Directress.

Please see the Event Financial Info Form in the Business Office Forms folder online.

Other items for purchase, such as special order t-shirts for groups and clubs or spirit items, should be

ordered through the school store. No faculty/staff person, parent, or student is permitted to order items

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using the school name or logo without doing so through the school store or by special arrangement with

those in charge of the store.

Music

All music played for events in the gym or on Angels of Victory Field will be provided by Academy

personnel. Playlists will be compiled with input from all the team captains but will not be team specific.

No team may play a CD, ipod, or other device on the playing area or through the audio system. This is

for the enjoyment of all and to ensure appropriate content.

Insurance

Mount Saint Mary Academy has a supplemental school-time accident insurance policy . The policy is

intended to provide supplemental accident medical insurance when accidental bodily injury is sustained

by a student while participating in a school sponsored activity. The school insurance is supplemental and

as such is excess to the primary insurance policy of the family. The purpose of the secondary insurance is

to assist families with the out of pocket expenses often associated with accidental injuries, only after the

claim has been processed through the families’ primary insurance.

Parents/students must notify the person responsible for the school activity immediately when an accident

has occurred. Supplemental insurance forms can be obtained through the schools administrative

offices. Claims will only be considered if made with 90 days of the incident.

Physical Education Exemption

Physical Education is important to the educational experience at the Mount. We require all Freshmen and

Sophomores to take Physical Education. Juniors and Seniors participating in Mount Athletics may

choose to take a study in the library during P.E. class only after the appropriate forms are completed with

the Physical Education department. Any student enrolled in P.E. that does not participate due to a

medical note is ineligible to participate in athletics.

Pick up post games and practices

Coaches are required to wait a reasonable amount of time (15 minutes) for athletes to be picked up at the

end of practices or games. For the safety of the students, all athletes not picked up will be asked to wait

in the study center in the Main Building. Students waiting for late practices should also wait in the study

center. On half days students will have lunch and wait in the student center in Saint Joe’s. The school

staff is not responsible for supervising athletes waiting for rides.

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Pictures

Team and individual pictures will be taken throughout the season for the purpose of publicity.

Schedule

Mount Saint Mary Athletic schedules can be found at www.skylandconferencenj.org

Sportsmanship

At Mount Saint Mary Academy it is an expectation that our coaches, players, and fans will exhibit good

sportsmanship at all times. Athletics provides us with the opportunity to show the best of ourselves in

difficult situations. At the Mount we want to “honor the game” and learn to compete hard but with grace

and humility. Our expectation is we will compete fiercely to win but in the end we want to win the game,

fairly as it is supposed to be played.

In honoring the game we show respect for all of its aspects – Opponents, Officials, Coaches, Teammates

and Ourselves.

Opponents – show opponents the respect they deserve. Help them up after a collision.

Always shake hands and congratulate them on a well played game win or lose.

Officials – Accept the decisions of officials without incident. Players should never

question officials.

Coaches – Always show respect for your coaches. If you have a question or concern,

email the coach for a meeting.

Teammates – Never criticize, demean, or embarrass your teammates on or off the playing

area.

The Game – Play fairly – accept with dignity, the outcome of a contest.

Mount Saint Mary Academy takes sportsmanship very seriously. As with all aspects of the school, the

Core Values of Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Justice, and Service are the cornerstone of the program.

Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated and will subject the individual to disciplinary action

Unsportsmanlike conduct shall include but not be limited to the following:

Any athlete who uses obscene gestures or profane or unduly provocative language or action

towards officials, opponents, or spectators.

Any athlete who intentionally incites participants or spectators to violent or abusive action

Any athlete who strikes or physically abuses an official, opposing coach, player, or spectator

In addition to the NJSIAA disciplinary action, any violations of our sportsmanship rule,

including, but not limited to disqualifications in the area of racial, ethnic, gender bias, will

result in the NJSIAA contacting and working directly with the Conference and Community

Agency (Human Rights/Civil Rights Group) which focuses in on this important aspect of

social behavior as it relates to athletics.

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Any Student-Athlete or coach disqualified before, during or after an interscholastic event for

unsportsmanlike and flagrant verbal or physical misconduct will be disqualified from the next two (2)

regularly scheduled games/meets. Mount Saint Mary Academy Administration may add to this

suspension period or impose disciplinary action as deemed appropriate.

Once a coach/player has been disqualified, NO appeals to the NJSIAA will be honored from the player,

coach, official, or any other party.

A disqualified player or coach may not be present at any contest in that sport during the period of

disqualification. Definition of not being present at the site means the disqualified player or coach is not to

be present in the locker room, on the bus, on the sidelines, in the stands or site area before, during or after

the game/meet.

Spectator Code

The school community is strongly encouraged to attend and support Mount athletic events. To ensure a

positive experience for all, we require all spectators to adhere to the following set of standards:

Conform to all rules set forth by Mount Saint Mary Academy, the Skyland Conference, the

Somerset County Athletic Association, the NJSIAA, and the NJISAA.

Always demonstrate good sportsmanship

Refrain from use of profanity or obscenities

Accept the decisions of officials

Be considerate of injured players of both teams

Cheer for your team and not against opponents

Support your coaches and all members of the team

Refrain from criticizing or demeaning all athletes, coaches, officials, or fans

Respect the contest

Transfers

A student athlete transferring from one secondary school to another, without a bona fide change of

residence by that student’s parent or guardian, shall be ineligible to participate for a period of thirty (30)

calendar days or one half of the maximum number of games allowed in the sport by NJSIAA rules (the

ineligibility period) from the beginning of the regular schedule, whichever is less, in any sport in which

the student has previously participated at the varsity level.

To prevent possible recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage, a Transfer Form must be executed by

the two involved schools and filed with the NJSIAA before any interscholastic participation.

A student who transfers during the second half of a sports season, regardless of whether the transfer was

the result of a bona fide change of residence, shall be ineligible to participate in any post-season

championship competition at the new school.

Transportation

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The Mount will provide transportation to and from athletic contests and off campus practice sites when

school is in session. However, transportation may not be provided for weekend events.

Any student who utilizes Mount transportation to an event but is not returning to the Mount on

the bus must have a parent/guardian’s signature. Parents/guardian must fill out the appropriate

form with the coach prior to leaving any off-campus site with the student athlete. The Mount will

not provide transportation for any student athlete that does not adhere to this policy. Any student

who leaves any athletic contest/practice without following the proper procedure is subject to

disciplinary action that may include suspension from the team.

Mount Saint Mary Academy is not responsible for students who leave practice/competition with

anyone other than those designated by the parent/guardian.

The Athletic Department and members of the coaching staff strongly encourage the use of Mount

transportation to and from events when provided for safety reasons as well as team chemistry and

camaraderie.

Students may drive to away games only in emergency circumstances. However, the student must

have a note from a parent/guardian approved by the Director of Athletics.

Athletes must make their teachers aware of all early dismissals and make up any work missed.

Students may drive to offsite practice sites as long as the student has a note granting permission

from a parent/guardian on file in the athletic office.

Tryouts

In order to be eligible to try out for a team, all students must have a completed physical form, a hard

copy of the Sudden Cardiac Death Brochure Acknowledgement, a uniform bond form and

completed FamilyID.

It is the responsibility of the coach through the tryout process, to form the most competitive team

regardless of previous participation. Each student must try-out every year. Teams are selected on the

basis of current performance, not past participation. Students are evaluated by ability not by seniority.

The athletic department endeavors to have a place for everyone to experience competition. However on

occasion we are forced to limit the size of teams.

Dates for tryouts:

Fall Sports – August 17, 2015

Winter Sports –Swimming: November 10, 2015; Basketball and Track November 23, 2015

Spring Sports – March 7, 2016

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Valuables/Security

Student athletes are responsible for securing all valuables during practices and games. Please make sure

your things are locked in a locker and not left out in the locker room or foyer of the gymnasium. Be

cautious about bringing valuables to away contests where lockers will not be available.

Varsity Letters and Awards

The athletic department recognizes all of its athletes at the Athletic Awards night held at the Pines Manor

in May.

The awarding of varsity letters is at the discretion of the Head Coach. Players must be in attendance for

¾ of the game schedule or length of the season to be considered for a Varsity letter. This includes those

who are injured or ill.

Participation in varsity contests is a determining factor for athletes participating on a team sport.

In the area of individual sports specifically Cross Country and Winter/ Spring Track, the varsity and JV

line is not as clearly defined due to the nature of participation.

Cross Country and Track letters will be awarded as follows:

Cross Country – varsity letters are given to any athlete in three ways

Receives a varsity medal in any competition

Competes in the NJSIAA Group Championship or is an alternate

Runs a 5k time faster than the 8th fastest time of the previous year. For the 2014 cross country

season the time would be 23:00.

Winter Track- if the athlete achieves any of the following, they can receive a varsity letter

Receives a varsity medal in any competition

Scores as an individual or as part of a relay at any Championship meet

Runs a time in an event faster than the second fastest Mount runner did in the previous

year.

Qualify for the Winter Meet of Champions

Spring Track – if the athlete achieves any of the following, they receive a varsity letter

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Qualify for the Spring Track Meet of Champions or the Outdoor Group Championships

Time qualifications

Running Events-

o 400m IH - 78, 100m - 14.0, 1600m - 5:45, 400m - 66, 100m HH - 18, 800m - 2:37, 200 -

28, 3200m - 12:20

Field Events

o HJ - 4' 4", LJ - 14', TJ - 31', PV - 8', SP - 25', Jav - 70', Dis - 75'

Letter Winners – Varsity

First year – Red letter

Second year – Pin

Third year – Pin

Fourth year – Gold letter

Most Valuable Player

The Most Valuable Player is an award given to the best performing player on the team as determined by

the coaching staff. This award can be given to any player on the varsity roster. In the event the coaches

feel that two players are tied, two awards will be given.

Coach’s Award

The Coach’s Award is given to the player who demonstrates the most leadership, sportsmanship, and

team spirit. She exemplifies what it means to be a Mount Athlete representing our philosophy and ideals.

The Coach’s Award is given on each varsity team and is selected by the coaching staff.

Athlete of the Year

This award is given to a senior athlete that has shown exceptional athletic ability throughout her four

years at the Mount. This award is not given every year but only in those instances when we have a truly

deserving athlete.

Scholar Athlete

This award will be given to a senior student or several students to represent the Mount for the NJSIAA,

Skyland Conference, and Independent Schools.

The award takes into consideration academic and athletic performance.

Must be in the first or second quintile of the class

GPA no less than 3.0

Participated on a varsity sport for at least two years

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Have shown outstanding school and community citizenship

Selection will begin with academics. When academic ability among students is close, athletic

participation and abilities will be the deciding factor.

Voting process for both Athlete of the Year and Scholar Athlete

Athletes can apply or be nominated by their coach.

Coaches submit a recommendation on all athletes nominated from their sport.

A committee of faculty/coaches will review all applications.

Each committee member gets one vote.

Weight Room

The weight training room is located in the back room of the Athletic Training room in Gabriel Hall.

The fitness room includes five pieces of strength training that feature new technology utilizing pneumatic,

or air powered, machines creating resistance training through air pressure.

The machines themselves are sleek and lightweight in design and provide resistance that begins at zero

and goes up in one pound increments at the touch of a button. The pressurized air will provide resistance

greater than we will ever need with some pieces having the capability of over 300 pounds.

The equipment is very user friendly and nonthreatening – the lack of weight stacks provide a private

workout and removes competitiveness.

The machines we have selected will cover the major muscle groups of the body. They include the leg

extension, leg press, upper back, and chest press. We have also purchased a Functional Trainer which is a

Cable Machine that is also pneumatic in design but can offer the user a total body workout of hundreds of

exercises. Student athletes can also do sport-specific exercises utilizing the Functional Trainer.

In addition to the strength training equipment we have an elliptical and a treadmill for cardiovascular

workouts.

Students / Athletes are required to have a permission slip to use the weight room.

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APPENDIX A

Concussion Policy

Mount Saint Mary Academy’s Concussion Protocol for the Prevention and Treatment of Sports

Related Concussions and Head Injuries

Prevention

1. It is recommended that all student athletes obtain a computer based pre-season baseline test

such as ImPACT or Headminder at an approved facility. The school Licensed Athletic Trainer

can advise regarding facilities.

2. Review of educational information for student athletes on prevention of concussions.

3. Reinforcement of the importance of early identification and treatment of concussions to

improve recovery.

- Student athletes who are exhibiting the signs and symptoms of a sports related concussion or

other head injuries during practice or competition shall be immediately removed from play

and may not return to play that day

Education

All student athletes who participate in interscholastic sports receive the NJDOE Concussion and

Head Injury fact sheet / NJSIAA Concussion Policy Acknowledgement Form.

Possible Signs of Concussion:

(Could be observed by Coaches, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse)

1. Appears dazed, stunned, or disoriented.

2. Forgets plays, or demonstrates short term memory difficulty.

3. Exhibits difficulties with balance or coordination.

4. Answers questions slowly or inaccurately.

5. Loses consciousness.

Possible Symptoms of Concussion:

(Reported by the student athlete to Coaches, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse,

Parent/Guardian)

1. Headache

2. Nausea/Vomiting

3. Balance problems or dizziness

4. Double vision or changes in vision

5. Sensitivity to light or sound/noise

6. Feeling sluggish or foggy

7. Difficulty with concentration and short term memory

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8. Sleep disturbance

9. Irritability

Student athletes must be evaluated by a physician or licensed health care provider trained in the

evaluation and management of concussion to determine the presence or absence of a sports

related concussion or head injuries.

To return to practice and competition the student athlete must follow the protocol:

1. Immediate removal from competition or practice. 911 should be called if there is a

deterioration of symptoms, loss of consciousness, or direct neck pain associated with

the injury.

2. When available the student athlete should be evaluated by the school’s licensed

healthcare provider who is trained in the evaluation and management of concussions.

3. School personnel (Athletic Director, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, Coach,

etc.) should make contact with the student athlete’s parent/guardian and inform him/her

of the suspected sports related concussion or head injury.

4. School personnel (Athletic Director, Licensed Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, Coach,

etc.) shall provide the student athlete with Mount Saint Mary Academy’s suggestions

for management/medical checklist to provide their parent/guardian and physician or

other licensed healthcare professional trained in the evaluation and management of

sports related concussions and other head injuries.

5. The student athlete must receive written clearance from a physician trained in

the evaluation and management of concussions that states the student athlete is

asymptomatic at rest and may begin the graduated return to play protocol.

Graduated Return to Competition and Practice Protocol

- Complete physical, cognitive, emotional, and social rest is advised while the student athlete is

experiencing symptoms and signs of a sports related concussion or other head injury. (Minimize

mental exertion, limiting overstimulation, multi-tasking, etc.)

- After written medical clearance is given by a physician trained in the evaluation and

management of concussions stating that the student athlete is asymptomatic at rest, the

student athlete may begin a graduated individualized return to play protocol supervised by

Licensed Athletic Trainer, or in cases where the aforementioned is not available, a physician

or licensed healthcare provider trained in the evaluation and management or sports related

concussions. The following steps should be followed:

1. Completion of a full day of normal cognitive activities (school day, studying for tests, watching

practice, interacting with peers) without re-emergence of any signs and symptoms. If no return

of symptoms, next day advance to:

2. Light aerobic exercise, which includes walking, swimming, or stationary cycling, keeping the

intensity <70% maximum percentage heart rate: no resistance training. The objective of this

step is increased heart rate. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

3. Sport specific exercise including skating, and/or running; no head impact activities. The

objective of this step is to add movement and continue to increase heart rate. If no return of

symptoms, next day advance to:

4. Non-contact training drills (e.g. passing drills). The student athlete may initiate progressive

resistance training. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

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5. Following medical clearance (consultation between school health care personnel, i.e. Licensed

Athletic Trainer, School Nurse, and student athlete’s physician), participation in normal

training/practice activities. The objective of this step is to restore confidence and to assess

functional skills by the coaching staff. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to:

6. Return to play involving normal game exertion or game activity.

If the student athlete exhibits a re-emergence of any concussion signs or symptoms once they

return to physical activity, she will be removed from further exertional activities and returned

to her primary care physician.

If concussion symptoms reoccur during the graduated return to play protocol, the student

athlete will return to the previous level of activity that caused no symptoms.

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Mount Saint Mary Academy

Athletic Uniform Bond

The Mount Saint Mary Academy Athletic department will collect a

$200.00 athletic uniform bond from all athletes.

Any athlete that does not return the uniform, complete and in good

condition, to her coach, on one of the two designated return dates

will result in a $20.00 per day fine not to exceed $200.00.

In the event part of the bond is used, the remainder will be returned

and a new bond will be collected the next year

Otherwise the bond will be returned at the close of the senior year.

All checks are to be made payable to Mount Saint Mary Academy.

All checks will be cashed upon receipt.

Students Name: ________________________________________

Sport(s): ______________________________________________

I have read the above statement, and understand that failure to return the

uniform to the coach within a week of the close of the season and on

one of the two designated return dates, will result in a $20.00 per

day fine until the uniform is handed in or the fines exceed $200.00.

____________________________ _________________________

Parent or Guardian Signature Student Signature

Date:_______________________ Check #:__________________

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NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY AND

PARENT/GUARDIAN CONCUSSION POLICY

ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORMS

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.

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2015-16 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.

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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

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NJSIAA PARENT/GUARDIAN

CONCUSSION POLICY ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM

In order to help protect the student athletes of New Jersey, the NJSIAA has mandated that all athletes,

parents/guardians and coaches follow the NJSIAA Concussion Policy.

A concussion is a brain injury and all brain injuries are serious. They may be caused by a bump, blow, or

jolt to the head, or by a blow to another part of the body with the force transmitted to the head. They can

range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. Even though most concussions

are mild, all concussions are potentially serious and may result in complications including prolonged

brain damage and death if not recognized and managed properly. In other words, even a “ding” or

bump on the head could be serious. You can’t see a concussion and most sports concussions occur without

loss of consciousness. Signs and symptoms of concussion may show up right after the injury or can take

hours or days to fully appear. If your child/player reports any symptoms of concussion, or if you notice the

symptoms or signs of concussion yourself, seek medical attention right away.

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

1. Headache

2. Nausea/vomiting

3. Balance problems or dizziness

4. Double vision or changes in vision

5. Sensitivity to light or sound/noise

6. Feeling of sluggishness or fogginess

7. Difficulty with concentration, short-term memory, and/or confusion

8. Irritability or agitation

9. Depression or anxiety

10. Sleep Disturbance

Signs observed by teammates, parents and coaches include:

1. Appears dazed, stunned, or disoriented

2. Forgets plays or demonstrates short-term memory difficulties (e.g. is unsure of the game, score,

or opponent)

3. Exhibits difficulties with balance or coordination

4. Answers questions slowly or inaccurately

5. Loses consciousness

6. Demonstrates behavior or personality changes

7. Is unable to recall events prior to or after the hit

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What can happen if my child/player keeps on playing with a concussion or returns too soon?

Athletes with the signs and symptoms of concussion should be removed from play immediately.

Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves the young athlete especially

vulnerable to greater injury. There is an increased risk of significant damage from a concussion for a period

of time after that concussion occurs, particularly if the athlete suffers another concussion before completely

recovering from the first one. This can lead to prolonged recovery, or even to severe brain swelling (second

impact syndrome) with devastating and even fatal consequences. It is well known that adolescent or teenage

athletes will often under report symptoms of injuries. And concussions are no different. As a result,

education of administrators, coaches, parents and students is the key for student-athletes’ safety.

If you think your child/player has suffered a concussion

Any athlete even suspected of suffering a concussion should be removed from the game or practice

immediately. No athlete may return to activity after an apparent head injury or concussion, regardless of

how mild it seems or how quickly symptoms clear. Close observation of the athlete should continue for

several hours.

An athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury in a practice or game shall be removed

from competition at that time and may not return to play until the athlete receives written clearance from a

physician trained in the evaluation and management of concussions that states the student athlete is

asymptomatic at rest and may begin the graduated return to play protocol. The graduated return to play

protocol is a series of six steps, the first being a completion of a full day of normal cognitive activities

without re-emergence of symptoms.

Day 2: light aerobic exercise, keeping the student’s heart rate <70% max

Day 3: sport specific exercises: running, etc. No head impact activities.

Day 4: non-contact training drills such as passing, shooting. Some progressive resistance training.

Day 5: normal training/practice activities, following medical clearance.

Day 6: return to play involving normal game exertion or game activity.

You should also inform your child’s Coach, Athletic Trainer (ATC), and/or Athletic Director, if you think

that your child/player may have a concussion. And when in doubt, the athlete sits out.

For current and up-to-date information on concussions you can go to:

http://www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports

http://www.nfhslearn.com

32

SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH

BROCHURE

The incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) among student athletes,

often due to undetected heart conditions, has caused great concern

throughout New Jersey. In response to this serious problem and in an

effort to increase awareness and emphasize prevention of possible

sudden death of young athletes, the Legislature passed and the Governor

signed P. L. 2009, Chapter 260.

The law established the New Jersey Student Athlete Cardiac Screening

Task Force.

The Task Force has completed the portion of its mandate to develop an

informational brochure about sudden cardiac death for distribution to all

districts in the State. Attached for your use is an electronic version of the

brochure.

Also, the brochure will be available on the Department’s website:

http://www.state.nj.us/education/students/safety/health/services/cardiac.

pdf

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School Athletic Physical

The School Athletic Physical must also be returned for

participation in Athletics. For Fall sports, the physical

must be completed after July 1, 2015. The Physical form

can be found in the “Forms” section online.

The following forms will be collected digitally via

www.familyid.com before 8/11/15:

- Athletic Policies Acknowledgement

- Consent to Steroid Testing/NJSIAA Concussion

Policy Acknowledgement

- Health Update (required for each season when the

Physical is over 60 days old)

- Weight Room Permission Slip

The Athletic Physical must be filled out and signed by a

physician and delivered by hand or FedEx to the main

office by 8/11/15 for fall athletes.

The Uniform Bond is a $200 deposit that must be also

delivered by hand or FedEx by 8/11/15 for fall athletes

who do not currently have a Uniform Bond on file.