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2016 – 2017
Student-Athlete Handbook
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
1
STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK
2016-2017
Students who participate in intercollegiate athletics at Nova Southeastern University are
responsible for knowing and complying with the rules contained in this handbook. The
Department of Athletics reserves the right to amend and alter the rules and procedures in the
handbook at any time. Please check the website at www.nsusharks.com for updates during the
year. In addition to this handbook, individual teams may have additional rules and regulations
that also apply to all team members.
All student-athletes at NSU are required to sign the Student-Athlete Handbook agreement form,
contained in the back of this handbook. Additionally, all student-athletes at NSU are subject to
the rules outlined in the NSU Student Handbook, which can be accessed at:
http://www.nova.edu/studentaffairs/forms/studenthbk_2016-17.pdf
IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION REGARDING NSU, SUNSHINE STATE CONFERENCE, OR
NCAA RULES & POLICIES, contact the Compliance Office at 954-262-8280 or 954-262-8266
If you have any information about a potential NCAA RULES VIOLATION, please contact one
of the following:
Compliance Office 954-262-8280 or 954-262-8266
Director of Athletics 954-262-8252
Faculty Athletic Rep 954-262-5807
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CONTENTS PAGE
NSU ATHLETICS STAFF DIRECTORY 4
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY MISSION STATEMENT 5
NOVA SOUTHEATERN UNIVERSITY 2020 VISION & CORE VALUES 5-6
DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS MISSION STATEMENT 7
DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY 7
SUNSHINE STATE CONFERENCE (SSC) GOALS 7-8
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NCAA) 8-9
DIVISION II FEATURES 9-10
LETTER FROM DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS 11
LETTER FROM FACULTY ATHLETIC REP 12
LETTER FROM THE SSC COMMISSIONER 13
ACADEMICS AND STUDENT ATHLETES 14
Academic Eligibility 14-15
NSU Academic Policy 15-16
Corrective Action Agreement/Online Class Policy 16-17
Absence Report 17
Progress Reports 17
Athletic Academic Programs 17-19
Study Hall 20
Laptop Policy 21
Book Award Scholarship Policy 21
Athletic Academic Awards 21
SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) 22
NCAA Student-Athlete Enhancement 23-24
COMPLIANCE 25 Initial Squad Meetings for Student-Athletes 25 Sports Participation 25
Sportsmanship 25-26
Code of Conduct 26
Hazing 27-28
Gambling 28-29
Alcohol Abuse 29
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Team Travel 29-30
Extra Benefits 30-31
Post-Enrollment Amateurism 32-35
Practice Time and Countable Athletically Related Activities 35-36
Mandatory Medical Exam 36
Declared Playing Season 37-38
Hosting a Prospective Student-Athlete – Official Visit 39
SSC Intra-Conference Transfer Rule 40
Grievance Procedures /Appeals Process 40-43
Equipment Policies 43
Exit Interviews 43
ATHLETIC FINANCIAL AID 44 Policy 44-46
Degree Completion Scholarships (post eligibility awards) 46-48
Student Employment in the Athletic Department 48-49
ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS 50 Interviews 50-51
Social Media/Networking Policy 51-52
Disciplinary Actions 52
ATHLETIC TRAINING/ SPORTS MEDICINE 53 Athletes Responsibility 53
General Policies 53-54
Facilities 54
Cooperative Medical Assistance 55-56
Athletic Injuries & Medical Procedure 56-57
Insurance Information 57-58
Claims Procedure 58-59
Return-To-Play Policy 59-60
Concussion Management 60-62
DRUG & ALCOHOL EDUCATION & Testing Policy/Drug Free Sport 62-69
STRENGTH & CONDITIONING 70-72
Emergency Action Procedure 72-73
Shark Code of Conduct 73-74
SIGNATURE PAGE 75 Student-Athlete Agreement 75
2016-17 NCAA BANNED DRUGS 76-78
SUMMARY OF NCAA REGULATIONS DII 79-94
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
4
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
5
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of Nova Southeastern University, a private, not-for-profit institution, is to offer a
diverse array of innovative academic programs that complement on-campus educational
opportunities and resources with accessible distance learning programs to foster academic
excellence, intellectual inquiry, leadership, research, and commitment to community through
engagement of students and faculty members in a dynamic, life-long learning environment.
2020 VISION
By 2020, through excellence and innovations in teaching, research, service and learning, Nova
Southeastern University will be recognized by accrediting agencies, the academic community,
and the general public, as a premier, private not-for-profit university of quality and distinction
that engages all students and produces alumni who serve with integrity in their lives, fields of
study, and resulting careers.
CORE VALUES
Academic Excellence
Academic excellence is the provision of the highest quality educational and learning experiences
made possible by academically and professionally qualified and skilled instructional faculty and
staff, opportunities for contextual learning, state-of-the-art facilities, beautiful surroundings, and
effective resources necessary to support learning at the highest level. Additionally, academic
excellence reflects the successful relationship between engaged learners and outstanding
instructional faculty and staff.
Student Centered
Students are the focus of institutional priorities, resource decisions, and planning. We are
stewards of student needs and advocates for student academic success and professional
development.
Integrity
Integrity involves honesty and fairness, consistency in instruction, ethics of scholarship, freedom
of inquiry, and open and truthful engagement with the community through effective
communication, policies and practices.
Innovation
Innovation is the creative and deliberate application of teaching, research, scholarship and
service for effective education, and the development of useful products or processes providing a
value added to the community.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Opportunity
Opportunity fosters the possibility for anyone associated with NSU to acquire an education or an
educational experience through creative, yet sound pedagogical programs.
Scholarship/Research
Research and scholarship products are disseminated and evaluated through intellectual discourse,
application, assessment, and other mechanisms of the relevant peer community.
Diversity
Diversity includes, but is not limited to, race, ethnicity, culture, religion, philosophy, gender,
physical, socioeconomic status, age and sexual orientation. Differences in views, interpretations
and reactions derived from diversity are important. Diversity enriches a learning environment
focused on preparing individuals to live and work in a global society.
Community
NSU is a community of faculty staff, students and alumni that share a common identity and
purpose who engages with the university’s external community through diverse services, clinical
programs, and community-based research and resources. Our community extends into
professional, intellectual, as well as geographical domains that both support and are the focus of
our educational mission.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Nova Southeastern University Athletics Mission
To provide a first class student-athlete experience through the participation in a highly competitive and
nationally recognized intercollegiate athletic program. Through the platform of higher education, we offer young men and women the opportunity to develop leadership, sportsmanship and teamwork skills that will serve as a foundation for success
today and in the future.
Through a student centered approach to learning, we focus on the balance of academic excellence
and athletic excellence while serving the university and the community at large with integrity.
SUNSHINE STATE CONFERENCE (SSC) GOALS
Goal Statements. The Sunshine State Conference is committed to being:
1. A conference with strong presidential leadership, supplying a vision and philosophy,
implemented by a shared governance of faculty athletic representatives, athletic directors
and senior woman administrators.
2. A conference characterized by diverse student-athletes striving for both academic success
and athletic excellence. This shall include achieving a student-athlete 4-year average
graduation rate of 60% or better OR at least 8 percentage points above the average
graduation rate of all institutional full-time undergraduate students. In addition, student-
athletes will be provided the opportunity to be developed by exceptional coaches, faculty,
staff and administrators whose aim is preparing them for life and leadership beyond
athletics.
3. A conference that embraces and integrates the NCAA Division II philosophy, vision,
programs and opportunities to create an environment of demonstrated integrity,
innovation and quality for its membership.
4. A conference nationally known for its competitive excellence, first class facilities,
exceptional sportsmanship, outstanding hospitality and national championship titles.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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5. A conference that through its strong reputation as the leader in NCAA Division II
athletics is able to attract state-wide support, sponsorship, corporate support, media
interest and philanthropic gifts.
6. A conference nationally known for the work of its Student-Athlete Advisory Committee,
gender equity initiatives, NCAA compliance programming and diversity practices.
7. A conference nationally known for programming in the area of student-athlete well-
being, as well as for the community service involvement of its member institutions.
8. A conference known for its exceptional conference championship experience, while
maintaining academic and fiscal integrity in the promotion and production of its post-
season events. (Adopted 10/4/06)
NATIONAL COLLEGIATE ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION (NCAA)
Mission The NCAA’s core ideology consists of two notions: core purpose - the organization’s reason for
being – and core values- essential and enduring principals that guide and organization. Their
purpose is to govern competition in a fair, safe, equitable and sportsmanlike manner. And to
integrate intercollegiate athletics into higher education so that the educational experience of the
student-athlete is paramount. The Association – through its member’s institutions, conferences
and the national office staff – shares a belief in and commitment to:
1. The collegiate model of athletics in which students participate as an avocation, balancing
their academic, social and athletics experiences.
2. The highest levels of integrity and sportsmanship.
3. The pursuit of excellence in both academics and athletics.
4. The supporting role that intercollegiate athletics plays in higher education mission and in
enhancing the sense of community and strengthening the identity of members institutions
5. An inclusive culture that fosters the equitable participation for student-athletes and career
opportunities for coaches and administrators from diverse backgrounds.
6. Respect for institutional autonomy and philosophical differences.
7. Presidential leadership of intercollegiate athletics at the campus, conference and national
levels.
Purpose
To initiate, stimulate and improve intercollegiate athletics programs for student-athletes
and to promote and develop educational leadership, physical fitness, athletics excellence
and athletics participation as a recreational pursuit;
To uphold the principal of institutional control of, and responsibility for, all
intercollegiate sports on conformity with the constitution and bylaws of this Association;
To encourage its members to adopt eligibility rules to comply with satisfactory standards
of scholarship, sportsmanship and amateurism;
To formulate, copyright and publish rules of play governing intercollegiate athletes;
To preserve intercollegiate athletics records;
To supervise the conduct of, and to establish eligibility standards for, regional and
national athletics events under the auspices of this Association;
To cooperate with other amateur athletics organization in promoting and conduction
national and international athletics events;
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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To legislate, through bylaws or by resolutions of Convention, upon any subject of general
concern to the members related to the administration of intercollegiate athletics; and
To study in general all phases of competitive all phases of competitive intercollegiate
athletics and establish standards whereby the colleges and universities of the United
States can maintain their athletics programs on a high level.
Division II Features 11 Reasons to Believe in Division II:
1. Graduation Rate. Division II student-athlete graduation rate is consistently 10 to 15
percentage points higher than the total student
body.
2. Class Time. Division II’s regionalization philosophy rewards the scheduling of local
or regional opponents in the regular season, resulting
in limited missed class time for student-athletes.
3. Athletics Scholarships. Many Division II student-athletes receive athletics
scholarships and other forms of financial aid to pay for
school.
4. Personal Attention. Student-athletes receive a quality education at DII institutions
that often feature an exceptional teacher-to-student
ratio.
5. Additional Assistance. The Degree-Completion Scholarship Program provides
deserving Division II student-athletes who have
exhausted their collegiate eligibility with financial assistance.
6. National Championships Opportunities. Division II features unparalleled
opportunity for student-athletes to advance to national
championship competition as a result of the division’s generous championship access
ratios.
7. Community Partnerships. Division II has initiated national community partnerships
with the Make-A-Wish Foundation and Habitat for
Humanity.
8. Unique Fiscal Model. Division II offers a unique fiscal model for intercollegiate
athletics that redefines the institutional value for
sponsoring sports and offering athletics scholarships.
9. Innovative Solutions. Division II encourages innovative policy and program decisions
unique to the NCAA, such as the development of
Division II National Championships Festivals and a national community-engagement
program.
10. Proud Alumni. Former Division II student-athletes include governors, senators,
entertainers, corporate leaders and professional
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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athletes.
11. National Recognition. Division II student-athletes have received the NCAA’s
highest individual honors, including winning the Walter
Byers Scholarship Award (the Association’s top student-athlete) and the NCAA Woman
of the Year Award.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Dear NSU Student-Athlete:
Welcome to Nova Southeastern University, to our athletic department, and
most importantly, welcome to the Shark family.
We fully expect that your experience at NSU will be rewarding, exciting, and challenging. As we
enter the 2016-17 academic year, we look to continue to build on the success and tradition of the
past in which we have been very fortunate to have experienced. We are very proud of these
successes which have been earned both athletically and academically by some very talented
student-athletes and coaches, past and present. It is equally important to understand and be
reminded of the way we do things - the “SHARK WAY”, in which we demonstrate and display
our achievements through good sportsmanship, with integrity, respect, and with humility.
As a Nova Southeastern University student-athlete we expect that you at all times, demonstrate
“SHARK PRIDE” as a student, as an athlete, and as a member of the community at large. We
emphasize that you represent yourself, your family, your team, your coaches, and the University.
You are an ambassador of Nova Southeastern University and are considered a leader on and off
campus. Please take this responsibility to heart and really think about the tremendous opportunity
that you have in front of you. Please take full advantage of all the resources that are available,
including the people who you will have the benefit of working with throughout your career.
This handbook will serve as an important reference throughout the coming year. If you have any
questions please refer to the website for more information and for the staff directory. Please
know that at any time, you are welcome to see any member of the staff to answer any questions
or concerns. We are genuinely interested in your success and personal welfare and we are all
here to add to your experience at NSU.
I wish you the very best for a successful year and look forward to meeting and seeing all of you.
Go Sharks!
Michael Mominey
Director of Athletics
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
12
Dear NSU Student-Athlete:
As the new Faculty Athletics Representative for NSU, it is with great pleasure that I welcome
you to Nova Southeastern University. On behalf of President George L. Hanbury II, Ph.D. and
the University Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Ralph Rogers, Ph.D., I
would like to welcome you to South Florida and thank you for your decision to represent Nova
Southeastern University as a NCAA intercollegiate student-athlete.
We understand the significant commitment you have made to serve as a student-athlete at
NSU and strive to support you in your endeavors on and off the field of competition. There is
perhaps no more difficult undertaking for an undergraduate student than to attempt to balance
his/her academic pursuits with the physical, emotional and time demands that college athletics
present. We hope that you recognize the magnitude of this challenge as you embark the 2016-
2017 academic year. We recommend that you approach this daunting task with a high degree
of personal integrity as well as a commitment to both academic and athletic excellence.
In my role as the FAR, I am entrusted to promote balance between the academic and athletic
aspects of your day-today life here at NSU. On a personal level, I hope that you can achieve all
of your goals, whether it is to become a Sunshine State Conference Champion or a NCAA
Champion in your sport; become the first in your family to successfully graduate college; or
perhaps seek one of the many outstanding graduate-level degrees that we have to offer at NSU.
However, it is partly my duty as FAR to make sure that these objective are not pursued at the
expense of your well-being. I can assist you in a number of ways during your time at NSU and
encourage you to contact me directly if I can be of service.
I recognize that the beginning of each academic year is a challenging time for student-athletes
and I encourage you to take the time to familiarize yourself with the information contained
within this student handbook. I also urge you to prioritize your life in accordance with ideals
consistent with the mission of NSU, the NSU Athletic Department and our University President
Dr. Hanbury: to pursue academic excellence, intellectual inquiry and leadership as well as a
commitment to community and life-long learning so that you can indeed become a NSU alumni
who serves with integrity in your life, your field of study and your resulting career. I wish you
success in all of your academic and athletic endeavors this year. Go Sharks!
Nancy J. Olson, M.S. M.Ed. Email: [email protected]
Faculty and Program Coordinator (954) 383-1132
Department of Sport and Recreation Management
H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship
Nova Southeastern University
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Dear Sunshine State Conference Student-Athletes:
On behalf of the conference office staff, I want to welcome you back for the start of the 2016-17
academic year. For those of you who are new, welcome to the Sunshine State Conference. As a
SSC student-athlete, you are now a part of one of the premiere collegiate athletic conferences in
the country. Our conference has won a total of 99 NCAA Division II National Championships,
picking up five additional titles last year. In addition, for nine straight years we have been at the
top of Division II conferences in the academic success rankings, as measured by the NCAA’s
Academic Success Rate. You are an integral part of a great conference.
By performing at your top level athletically, academically, and within your community, you
make us proud. In addition to upholding these standards, please never forget the importance of
demonstrating character and sportsmanship both inside and outside of your competitive venues.
While our conference competition is tough and the contests will be intense; I ask that you treat
your opponent with the respect at all times. After all, it is this competition with your opponents
that gives you the opportunity to strive to be your best.
The tradition of academic and athletic excellence in the Sunshine State Conference comes from a
long history of student-athletes just like you. I am happy that you are part of our conference
history and I trust that each of you will continue to uphold the level of excellence of which we
are so proud.
Sincerely,
Ed Pasque
Commissioner
Sunshine State Conference
Barry University Eckerd College Florida Southern College Florida Tech
Lynn University Nova Southeastern University
Rollins College Saint Leo University University of Tampa
SUNSHINE STATE CONFERENCE
1050 W. Nasa Blvd, Suite 158
Melbourne, FL 32901
Phone: 321-972-1803 Fax: 321-972-1805
sunshinestateconference.com
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
14
ACADEMICS
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY
As a student-athlete, you will be required to work closely with the Athletic Coordinator of
Academic Services to assure that you are meeting the standards set forth by the University, the
NSU Athletic Department, and the NCAA. All athletes must maintain “good” academic
standing, the appropriate number of earned credit hours, and continue working toward the
completion of their degree.
The following are eligibility requirements all student-athletes must fulfill in order to receive
athletic financial aid and to compete in any NSU intercollegiate sport. Please be aware that the
minimum GPA standards set forth by the NSU Athletic Department mirror those of the NCAA.
However, there are also policies set forth by the University, and they are detailed following the
Athletic Academic Policy.
Minimum Requirements (GPA)
All students must maintain a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.0 to be considered in
“good academic standing”. In some degree programs, students must maintain a higher
cumulative grade point average or a higher cumulative grade point average in ‘major’ courses to
remain in good standing as well as graduate. See specific program information for details.
Per NCAA guidelines, student-athletes must complete an average of 12-semester hours for each
of the previous terms enrolled. However, we strongly recommend an average 15 credit hours per
semester. Student-athletes eligibility will be monitored throughout the semester and evaluated at
the end of each semester. For a student-athlete “at risk”, his/her eligibility status will be
determined by Associate Director of Athletics, Athletic Academic Services Staff, and the Head
Coach.
NCAA 75-25 Rule
All student-athletes must adhere to the NCAA 75%-25% rule. Per semester, a student-athlete
may apply no more than 25% of the minimum required credit hours for the academic year from
summer sessions, toward maintaining eligibility. Therefore, a minimum of 18 degree hours must
be earned during the regular academic year in order for summer school hours to be counted
towards maintaining eligibility. (Bylaw 14.4.3.3)
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Term by Term Requirement
For Fall 2016 and Winter 2017, student-athletes must earn nine-semester hours of academic
credit toward their degree program to maintain their eligibility. If the student-athlete repeats a
course in which a satisfactory grade was initially received, the repeated course may not be used
to satisfy the nine-hour rule. (Bylaw 14.4.3.2 and Bylaw 14.4.3.7.6)
Designating a Program of Study
According to NCAA regulations, all student-athletes are required to designate a program of study
leading toward a specific baccalaureate degree by the beginning of the third year of enrollment
(fifth full-time semester). Once a major is declared, the credits used to meet progress-toward-
degree requirements must be credits toward the student-athlete’s designated degree program.
(Bylaw 14.4.3.6)
NSU Institution Academic Policy (Undergraduate)
Review of Academic Progress
For undergraduate students at NSU, student academic progress is evaluated at the end of each
semester. Students whose grade point averages (GPA) fall below minimum GPA requirements
will receive notification that they have been placed in one of the categories of academic progress
listed below. These categories will become permanently recorded on official student transcripts.
Academic Warning (AW):
A student is placed on AW when she/he has demonstrated poor academic performance but
remains in progress toward degree completion. Academic warning will be assigned for any
semester in which the student has a semester GPA below 2.0 (regardless of cumulative GPA). A
student on warning will receive a formal communication. AW will not be a designation of any
kind on a student’s transcript. AW will be considered a warning to the student and is not a
designation of poor academic standing within the university.
Academic Probation (AR):
A student is placed on AR when she/he has demonstrated poor academic performance and fails
to demonstrate sufficient progress toward degree completion. AR is determined when the
student’s cumulative GPA is below 2.0 AND has a semester GPA below 2.0 AND the student is
currently on academic warning (AW). To be removed from AR a student must raise the
cumulative GPA above 2.0 at the end of the semester. A student may remain on AR with a
cumulative average below 2.0 if the semester average is above a 2.0.
Academic Suspension (AS):
A student is placed on AS when she/he has a cumulative GPA below 2.0 AND a semester GPA
below 2.0 AND is currently on academic probation (AR). Suspension results in cessation of
enrollment/registration for the next fall or winter semester (summer semester does not satisfy the
period of academic suspension). If supported, a student returns to the university on academic
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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probation (AR). If the student is away from NSU enrollment for more than 12 months, the
student must submit a new application for admission. This insures a comprehensive review of
student academic and financial standing and updates relevant catalog term/year. A student may
not apply any credits earned during suspension (one semester) toward their NSU degree. AS
carries a permanent designation on the student’s transcript.
Academic Dismissal (DA):
A student is placed on DA when she/he has a cumulative GPA below 2.0 AND a semester GPA
below 2.0 AND was previously academically suspended AND currently is on academic
probation (AR). The university process on ‘return from dismissal’ requires a two year hiatus
from all NSU enrollments. A student may petition for readmission following dismissal through
the Office of Enrollment and Student Services. A student readmitted is placed on academic
probation (AR). If readmitted, a student may not apply any credits earned during dismissal. DA
carries a permanent designation on the student’s transcript.
Appealing Academic Suspension or Academic Dismissal:
Please see the NSU Undergraduate Student Catalog Academic Resources and Procedures.
CORRECTIVE ACTION AGREEMENT
A student-athlete deemed ineligible or placed on academic warning, probation and/or suspension
will receive a corrective action agreement. The corrective action plan is set forth by the Office
of Athletic Academic Services in order for the student-athlete to move forward academically.
The form will list requirements and obtain information in order for the student-athlete to regain
their eligibility. The form will be signed by the head coach, athletic academic staff, student-
athlete, and sport supervisor.
CHANGES TO CLASS SCHEDULES
All student-athletes who would like to make changes to their schedule must obtain approval from
both their campus advisor and the Department of Athletics- Academic Services. Schedule
changes are monitored by the Department of Athletics in order to protect your NCAA eligibility.
ONLINE CLASS POLICY
Student-Athletes should adhere to the online class policy set forth by the athletic department.
Student-Athletes with a GPA below 2.25 will not be permitted to take any online classes.
Student-Athletes with a GPA between 2.25 – 2.75 are permitted to take one (1) online class per
semester. Student-Athletes with a GPA of 2.75 and above are permitted to take two (2) online
classes per semester. Exceptions to this policy include degree offerings and requirements, team
travel schedules for an in-season semester. Any exceptions to this policy must be approved by
the Athletic Academic Services. This policy allows student-athletes to maintain an academic
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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path to success as they experience campus life and in-person courses in balance with online
offerings.
ABSENCE REPORT
Student-Athletes are expected and required to attend class on a regular and punctual basis. It is a
matter of professor’s discretion to accept excuses for absences and to grant permission for make-
up work. The Faculty establishes specific attendance policies that must be adhered to by student-
athletes. Arrangements for taking any examination or completing homework assignments
affected by team travel are the student-athlete’s responsibility. Faculty are aware of the problems
involved in scheduling athletic competitions, and are usually willing to provide some flexibility
if the student-athlete requests consideration in advance. Unexcused and excessive absences could
possibly result in loss of game participation and possibly Athletic Financial Aid reduction.
Professors notify the Athletics staff of missed classes and concerns for academic performance.
The Coordinator of Academic Services for Athletics will also send departmental notification to
all professors concerning the student-athletes’ absence. This notification will be sent out 48
hours prior to the date of absence. Coaches are expected to get travel rosters/itineraries to the
Coordinator of Academic Services 72 business hours prior to the travel date so that these
notifications may be sent. These notifications, in no way, should or will replace the
responsibility of the student-athletes to notify the professors or keep up with missed assignments.
PROGRESS REPORTS
In an attempt to maintain and improve the standard of academic excellence for NSU student-
athletes, Academic Progress Reports will be emailed to professors several times throughout each
semester. Coaches and student athletes will be updated with all academic progress reports as the
reports are received.
ATHLETIC ACADEMIC PROGRAMS
Select student-athletes are counseled via workshops and at individual meetings to maintain and
increase the academic success of student-athletes. Some selected student-athletes are enrolled in
a more intensive monitoring program in which individual meetings occur on a weekly basis until
satisfactory academic progress is established.
The Assistant Athletic Director for Academic Services and Student-Athlete Support and the
Coordinator of Student-Athlete Academic Services serve as liaisons with athletic administration
on the support of the academic needs of student-athletes, the monitoring and success coaching of
selected student-athletes, and helping coaches understand the special academic issues and their
role in helping team members manage those responsibilities.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Academic Success Program
The Academic Success Program (ASP) for student-athletes is designed to provide academic
support for team members of Nova Southeastern University's 17 sport programs and assist them
in managing their academic responsibilities. Based on evaluations and recommendations,
student-athletes are taught new techniques geared toward academic success and/or are referred to
appropriate academic support within the Office of Tutoring and Testing.
Professors can refer student-athletes to the Student-Athlete Academic Support Program. The
ASP will contact student-athletes who may not be doing as well academically as they could, and
to help them find ways to make this semester as successful as possible.
Divisional Support Program
Select student athletes have the opportunity to participate in the Divisional Support Program
(DSP) for student-athletes, which are designed for student athletes who have not been identified
as being at risk, but require additional academic monitoring and support.
What are the goals of the Academic Success Program and the Divisional Support
Program?
These programs have been developed to assist in the academic and social transition to Nova
Southeastern University for selected student-athletes. Designed for first-year and transfer admits
who are committed to developing their academic potential, as well as student-athletes who are in
poor academic standing, the ASP and DSP provides these student-athletes with individual
support for achieving academic success at NSU.
What does the ASP & DSP provide for its students?
These programs provide one-on-one progress conferencing for its students. The focus of these
meetings is helping students identify the factors that contributed to their current academic
standing and helping them develop the academic skills and behaviors that can contribute to
future success at the university. The focus of these meetings is on the development of academic
skills and of an individual support network to help program student-athletes succeed at NSU.
What topics are included in these meetings?
Academic Goals: Students are assisted in identifying the issues that resulted in their academic
warning or probation, and in developing strategies for improving academic performance.
• Attitude – To incerase the student’s general attitude and motivation for succeeding in
school and performing the tasks related to school success.
• Motivation – To increase the student’s degree of accepting responsibility for doing the
specific tasks necessary for school success.
• Time Management – To increase the student’s degree of creating and using schedules.
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• Anxiety – To decrease the student’s level of tension or anxiety when approaching
academic tasks.
• Course Management: Students are instructed on the differences between high school and
college courses, the expectations of college professors, the purpose and value of a course
syllabus, and the "how-to’s" of communicating with college professors.
• Concentration – To increase the student’s ability to concentrate and direct one’s attention
to school and school-related tasks, including studying.
• Information Processing – To increase the student’s ability to create imaginary and verbal
elaborations and organizations to foster understanding and recall.
• Selecting Main Ideas – To increase the student’s skill at selecting important information
from the unimportant information that does not need to be remembered.
• Study Aids/Strategies - To increase the student’s ability to use or create study aids that
support and increase learning and retention.
• Self-Testing – To increase the student’s ability to test understanding.
• Test Strategies – To increase the student’s ability to use effective strategies to prepare for
and take a test.
• Information/Referral: Students are provided with assistance in navigating various campus
resources such as services available in the Office of Academic Services, including peer
tutoring, the Writing Center, study skills workshops, Student Counseling, Career
Development, Student Affairs, and Financial Aid.
• Introduction to Academic Policies and Procedures: Students learn how various academic
policies and procedures may impact the decisions they make, such as class attendance,
drop/add, satisfactory academic progress standards, incomplete grades.
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STUDY HALL
All NSU student-athletes (incoming freshmen, college transfers, and current NSU student-
athletes) are subject to mandatory study hall. Student-athletes are placed in study hall based on
specific academic criteria. A student-athlete in his/her first semester at NSU (freshman or
transfer) as well as any student-athlete with a GPA below 2.5, either cumulative or from the
previous semester, will be given a full review to determine if study hall is warranted. The
Athletic Academic Services will review each student-athlete’s academic progress and determine
their study hall status and hours. GPA requirements for study hall are as follows:
GPA:
1.99 & below = 6 hours/week
2.00 - 2.29 = 4 hours/week
2.30 - 2.50 = 2 hours/week
Mandatory: incoming freshmen and transfer students = 2 hours/week
There are consequences for missing study hall or not fulfilling hour requirements in place for
missed hours, and excessive missed study hours will lead to possible suspension from athletic
competition.
Missing mandated study hall hours:
1st time - Meeting with Coach
2nd time - Meeting with Coach and Sport Supervisor
3rd time - Student will miss practice and/or games
Study Hall Hours: Monday – Friday (8:00am – 2:00pm) Academic Center (7:00am-7:00pm)
Study Hall Rules:
1. Come to study hall prepared to study. Bring required books, notebooks, etc.
2. Do not disturb other student-athletes who are trying to study.
3. Laptop computers are allowed, but only for academic purposes. No social networking,
instant messaging, personal emailing, etc. allowed.
4. All music must be self-contained and cannot be disturbing to others.
5. Proper attire must be worn.
6. No tobacco of any kind is allowed.
7. No food allowed in study hall.
8. No cell phone use.
9. Falsifying or helping others to falsify hours spent in study hall is prohibited.
10. Be respectful of others and NSU property.
11. Any student who is not studying will be asked to leave AND he/she will receive NO
hours for the time spent in study hall that day.
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LAPTOP/IPAD POLICY
To assist student-athletes with their academic requirements while traveling, or in other
circumstances, Academic Services for Athletics has laptop computers/iPads available for check-
out. These computers are intended to be used for completion of necessary course work. The
computers are equipped with internet access. To check out one of the computers, students
should see Athletic Academic Services. Check out of the laptops/iPads is limited to a 24 hour
period, or a weekend trip. Exceptions may be considered if no other students are in need, or if
there is no shortage of computers. The student is responsible for the condition of the laptop/iPad
upon return. If any problems are encountered while using the equipment, please notify at the
time of return.
ATHLETIC ACADEMIC AWARDS
1. Athletic Director’s Award Incentive.
All student-athletes who received a GPA 3.75 (or above) in a semester, will receive a $75 gift
card to the NSU Bookstore to be used on any item. The student-athletes who qualify for the
Athletic Director’s Award will be notified by Athletic Academic Services on the procedure to
obtain the award. NCAA Bylaw 16.1.3.3 limits these awards to be provided once per year to the
student-athlete being recognized.
2. Male and Female Scholar Athlete
Each year at the Athletics Award Banquet, the Athletic Director, Faculty Athletic Representative
and Senior Woman Administrator select a male and female scholar athlete. This goes to the male
and female student-athlete with the highest cumulative GPA, after Fall semester. The Student-
athlete must attend NSU for at least 4 semesters. Graduate students who completed
undergraduate at NSU are considered with their NSU Career GPA, calculated ¾ undergrad GPA,
¼ graduate GPA. This is the most prestigious academic award that a student-athlete can receive
from the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics upon completion of their eligibility.
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STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
(SAAC)
A student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC) is a committee made up of student-athletes
assembled to provide insight on the student-athlete experience. The SAAC also offers input on
the rules, regulations and policies that affect student-athletes' lives on NCAA member institution
campuses. NCAA legislation mandates that all member institutions have SAACs on their
respective campuses.
“The mission of the National Collegiate Athletic Association Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting opportunity,
protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image.”
In accordance with the NCAA policy, the NSU Department of Intercollegiate Athletics has a
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). The NSU SAAC is comprised of two (or more)
representatives from each athletic team who exemplify leadership skills on and off the field. We
recommend that all NSU SAAC members maintain a GPA above a 3.0.
The purpose of this committee is to streamline and promote communication between student-
athletes and athletic department administration. This committee will encourage student-athlete
involvement within the campus community and additional programs that encourage academic
achievement, health promotion, social responsibility, and general awareness.
The NSU-SAAC also offers input regarding regulations, and policies that affect student-athletes’
lives through direct communication with the administration. The committee acquires valuable
leadership skills while also experiencing organizational governance.
The NSU SAAC welcomes all ideas and suggestions. Please contact the SAAC liaison Laura
Barry at 954-262-8262 or the President of SAAC, Kyle Kilbourne, with questions or comments
regarding NSU SAAC.
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NCAA STUDENT-ATHLETE ENHANCEMENT
Student-Athlete Enhancement Pyramid
When a student-athlete becomes a shark, the initial focus will be on his/her own Personal
Enhancement to serve as a foundation for success in the areas of Social Engagement, Career
Development, and Leadership. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is located in the
center of the pyramid because SAAC will serve as a centerpiece by engaging with each of the
other program areas. Finally, the ultimate goal of Student-Athlete Enhancement is to provide the
opportunity and direction for student-athletes to develop the necessary skill sets to be Prepared
Professionals upon graduation.
Freshman
Senior
Prepared Professional
Leadership
Career Development
Social Engagement
Personal Enhancement
SAAC
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Program Areas Explained:
Personal Enhancement is the foundation for student-athlete success. This includes a focus on
personal identity and values, well-being, and transition and reflection.
Social Engagement is a cornerstone that emphasizes social awareness, civic engagement, and
moral application.
Career Development is a cornerstone to assist student-athletes with career exploration, choice,
preparation, and transition.
Leadership is the keystone that develops student-athlete’s personal, social, and professional
leadership skills.
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee engages with all program areas and serves as a voice to
provide insight on the student-athlete experience.
Prepared Professional
Intentional application and reflection of skills to inform ones own personal identity and become
an ambassador of Nova Southeastern University.
a. Programming Each team will be highly encouraged to attend one program per semester, There
will be several programs scheduled throughout the year. These programs will be
coordinated by the GA for Student Athlete Academic Services.
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COMPLIANCE
In order for us to compete in NCAA Division II Athletics, our institution is required to comply
with all applicable rules and regulations of the NCAA in the conduct of its intercollegiate
athletics programs. We are required to monitor our programs to assure compliance of all rules of
the NCAA and to identify and report to the NCAA instances in which compliance has not been
achieved. In any such instance, we will cooperate fully with the NCAA and will take appropriate
corrective actions. Members of NSU’s athletic staff, student-athletes, and other individuals and
groups representing the institutions athletics interests, must comply with the applicable NCAA
rules and, as a member institution, we shall be responsible for such compliance (see NCAA
Bylaw 2.8.1.). An institution found to have violated the NCAA’s rules is subject to disciplinary
and corrective actions which may be determined by the NCAA.
As a member of the NCAA, Nova Southeastern University is committed and obligated to operate
its athletics program in a manner that is consistent with the letter and the spirit of the NCAA
rules and regulations. To maintain compliance, it is Nova Southeastern University’s intention
and goal to ensure that its constituents (including University personnel, student athletes, and
representatives of athletics interests/boosters) are familiar with, and abide by, NCAA rules and
regulations.
INITIAL SQUAD MEETINGS FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES
You may not participate in intercollegiate athletics unless you have participated in the Initial
Squad Meeting held prior to the first date of practice for the academic year, or met individually
with the Compliance Office and sign the required departmental and NCAA forms.
SPORTS PARTICIPATION As a student-athlete at NSU, participating in intercollegiate athletics, please remember that you
are representing Nova Southeastern University and all the people who support us. Being in the
public eye, your personal conduct should reflect favorably upon yourself, your team, and the
University. Your personal conduct should be a positive reflection of NSU and the Department of
Athletics.
SPORTSMANSHIP For intercollegiate athletics to promote the character development of participants, to enhance the
integrity of higher and to promote civility in society, student-athletes, coaches, and all others
associated with these athletics programs and events should adhere to such fundamental values as
respect, fairness, civility, honesty and responsibility. These values should be manifested not only
in athletics participation but also in the broad spectrum of activities affecting the athletics
program.
Displaying good sportsmanship is important because it is the key and foundation to achieving
goals and becoming successful. Through sportsmanship you can become a better team player.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
26
One of your responsibilities as a student-athlete is to always display good sportsmanship at all
athletic events. This will require effort on your part. During participation in intercollegiate
athletic competition, you must demonstrate one or more of the ideals of sportsmanship including
fairness, civility, honesty, unselfishness, respect, and responsibility. You must treat others with
respect, including fellow student-athletes, opponents and officials.
Your coach may have more specific expectations concerning behavior, dress or sportsmanship.
If so, he or she will inform you of these. Support your coach by adhering to team rules and be
proud of your performance.
CODE OF CONDUCT Misconduct – Unacceptable behavior during practice or competition includes, but is not
limited to, the following:
Physically abusing officials, coaches, opponents, or spectators;
Engaging in any public criticism of game officials, conference personnel, another
institution, or its student-athletes or personnel;
Throwing objects or damaging equipment;
Inciting players or spectators to negative actions or to any behavior that insults an
opponent (e.g., taunting an opponent, official or spectator).
Using obscene or other inappropriate language or gestures;
Making public statements that are derogatory, controversial or unacceptable by the NSU
Social Media policy or team rules;
Engaging in areas that constitute harassment (verbal, physical, sexual, or any
combination thereof);
Participating in any action that violates recognized ethical standards of intercollegiate
athletics participation.
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HAZING The NSU Department of Athletics supports only those activities which are constructive,
educational, and inspirational and that contribute to the intellectual and personal development of
students. NSU athletics opposes any situation created intentionally to produce mental or physical
discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule.
Nova Southeastern University’s policy on conduct states that students should not interfere with
the rights, safety, or health of members of the University community nor interfere with other
students’ right to learn. Students are expected to abide by all University, department and program
rules and regulations and all local, state, and federal laws. Violations of NSU’s conduct
standards for students include hazing which is defined by NSU as any action or situation that
recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for
purposes including, but not limited to initiation or admission into or affiliation with any
organization operating under the sanction of a postsecondary institution.
Actions and activities which are prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:
Any type of initiation or other activity where there is an expectation of individuals
joining a particular team to participate in a behavior designed to humiliate, degrade or
abuse them regardless of the person’s willingness to participate
Forcing, requiring or pressuring an individual to consume alcohol or any other substance
Forcing, requiring or pressuring an individual to shave any part of the body, including
hair on the head
Any requirement or pressure put on an individual to participate in any activity which is
illegal, perverse, publicly indecent, contrary to genuine morals and/or beliefs (ex. Public
profanity, indecent or lewd conduct or sexual gestures in public)
Expecting or pressuring individuals to participate in an activity in which the individual is
not willing to participate
Physical abuse of any kind.
Forcing, encouraging or pressuring someone to wear in public apparel which is
conspicuous and not within the norm of what is considered to be in good taste
Engaging in public stunts and buffoonery
Required eating of anything an individual would refuse to eat otherwise
Any activity or action that creates a risk to the health, safety or property of the University
or anyone in its community
Assigning or endorsing pranks such has stealing or harassment
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Awakening or disturbing individuals during normal sleeping hours
Nudity at any time or forced reading of pornographic material
Paddling, beating or otherwise permitting a member to hit others
Having substances (eggs, mud, paint, honey, etc.) thrown at poured on or otherwise
applied to anyone’s body
Morally degrading/humiliating games or other activity that makes a member the object of
amusement, ridicule, or intimidation
Subjecting a member to cruel and unusual psychological conditions
Engaging in, supporting, promoting, or sponsoring hazing or violating rules governing
hazing is prohibited (Florida Hazing Law, 1006.63). Hazing does not include customary
athletic events or other similar contests or competitions or any activity that furthers legal
and legitimate objective.
SPORTS WAGERING/GAMBLING The Department of Athletics supports the NCAA’s position on gambling activities which states
as follows: “The NCAA opposes all forms of legal and illegal sports wagering. Sports wagering
has the potential to undermine the integrity of sports contests and jeopardize the welfare of
student-athletes and the intercollegiate athletics community. Sports wagering demeans the
competition and competitors alike by a sending message that is contrary to the purposes and
meaning of “sport.” Sports competition should be appreciated for the inherent benefits related to
participation of student-athletes, coaches and institutions in fair contests, not the amount of
money wagered on the outcome of the competition.”
According to NCAA Summary of Regulations for DII:
“… student-athletes shall not knowingly:
a) Provide information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities
concerning intercollegiate competition
b) Solicit a bet on any intercollegiate team
c) Accept a bet on any team representing the institution
d) Solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate competition for any item (cash, dinner,
shirt) that has tangible value; or
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29
e) Participate on any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics or
professional athletics, through a bookmarker, a parlay card or any other method of
employed or organized gambling. This includes fantasy sports and pools (i.e.
NCAA Tournament brackets) in which an entry fee is required and there is an
opportunity to win a prize.
Any student-athlete found to have engaged in gambling activities may also be subject to
disciplinary action pursuant to Bylaw 10.4
ALCOHOL ABUSE As an athletics participant, you are often perceived as a “role model” due to your high visibility
on campus. As an ambassador for the Department of Athletics and the University, you are
expected to constantly present a wholesome public image. State law sets a minimum age for the
purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages at 21 years of age. As a student-athlete, even
after reaching 21 years of age, you are prohibited from drinking alcoholic beverages when
traveling with, or representing our teams, and at any team or University-related activity.
Alcoholic beverages should not be consumed while attending our athletic or athletically
sponsored events. Reported violations will be investigated by the Director of Athletics and
appropriate actions will be taken.
Please be aware that excessive consumption of intoxicating beverages can be detrimental, not
only to your health, but also to your intellectual and athletic abilities.
If you feel you have an alcohol abuse problem, please talk to one of our Athletic Staff members,
the NSU Counseling office, or a member of the Sports Medicine Team.
TEAM TRAVEL Student-athletes will be under the direction of the head coach while away from campus on all
recognized, scheduled events. During this time, all student-athletes and staff represent NSU.
Under no circumstances will any member of the official travel party consume alcoholic
beverages, tobacco products, or participate in any form of gambling (violation of NCAA policy
could render one ineligible); violate curfew, or University policy. Violation of this policy could
result in loss of participation and possible early return to campus at the cost of the student-
athlete.
All travel party members will dress in a manner that positively represents NSU. The head coach
will develop a dress code policy for his or her team and will have the final determination as to
the dress of the student-athletes. Your head coach will review the standards for team conduct
which you should observe when you travel with your team. Specific requirements for dress,
conduct, curfews and free-time activities will be discussed.
Traveling Separate from the Team / Personal Transportation
At the beginning of each academic year at the initial-squad meeting for student-athletes, you will
be required to sign a Release of Travel Liability form for travel to and from practice. This form
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
30
must be signed in advance of you using transportation, other than official NSU transportation, to
travel to and from off-campus practice sites. This may mean travel in your own vehicle or in the
vehicle of a fellow teammate or family member.
All student-athletes will travel to and from all events as a team in buses or University-sanctioned
vehicles, unless they have signed an Athletic Travel Liability Waiver. In the event of off campus
event travel, you will be required to complete a Release of Travel Liability form for travel to and
from events (available from one of your coaches). This must be signed and given to your coach
48 hours prior to travel and verified by the Athletic Director or SWA prior to travel. Again, this
may mean travel in your own vehicle or in the vehicle of a fellow teammate or family member to
and/or from an event.
EXTRA BENEFITS (NCAA Manual Bylaw 16)
Per the NCAA, receipt by a student-athlete of non-permissible awards, extra benefits, or
excessive or improper expenses not authorized by NCAA legislation violates the Association’s
amateurism principle and renders the student-athlete ineligible for athletics participation. Receipt
of a benefit (including otherwise prohibited extra benefits per Bylaw 16.11.2) by student-
athletes, their relatives or friends is not a violation of NCAA rules if it is demonstrated that the
same benefit is generally available to the institution’s students and their relatives and friends.
Below are examples of non-permissible extra benefits:
Discounts and Credits. A student-athlete may not receive a special discount, payment
arrangement or credit on a purchase (e.g. airline ticket, clothing) or service (e.g. laundry,
dry cleaning) from an institutional employee or a representative of its athletics interests.
(Bylaw 16.11.2.2)
Free or Reduced-Cost Services. An athletics representative may not provide a student-
athlete with professional services (for which a fee would normally be charged) without
charge or at a reduced cost except as permitted elsewhere in this bylaw. Professional
services provided at less than the normal rate or at no expense to a student-athlete are
considered an extra benefit, unless they are available on the same basis to the general
student body. (Bylaw 16.11.2.2.1)
Credit Cards. It is not permissible to allow a student-athlete to use a member’s credit
card for personal reasons without charge or at a reduced cost. (Bylaw 16.11.2.2.2)
Entertainment Services. A student-athlete may not receive services (ex. movie tickets,
dinners, use of car) from commercial agencies (e.g. movie theatres, restaurants, car
dealers) without charge or at reduced rates, or free of reduced-cost admission to
professional athletics contests from professional sports organizations, unless such
services are also available to the student body in general. (Bylaw 16.11.2.2.3)
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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An institutional employee or representative of the institution’s athletics interests may not
provide a student-athlete with extra benefits or services, including, but not limited to:
a) A loan of money
b) An automobile or the use of an automobile
c) Transportation that is not generally available to the institution’s students and
their friends and relatives
d) Signing or cosigning a note with an outside agency to arrange a loan
(Bylaw 16.11.2.3)
Camp Concession. It is not permissible for a member institution or member of its
athletics department staff conducting a sports camp to permit student-athlete (enrolled in
the institution) to operate, at the student-athlete’s own expense, a concession selling items
related to, or associated with, the camp to campers or others in attendance. (Bylaw
16.11.2.4)
Athletics Equipment. A student-athlete may not accept athletics equipment, supplies or
clothing (e.g. tennis rackets, golf clubs, balls, shirts) from a manufacturer or commercial
enterprise. Such items may be provided to the student-athlete’s institution, to be used by
the institution’s team in accordance with accepted practices for issuance and retrieval of
athletics equipment. (Bylaw 16.11.2.5)
Sponsor Families. A member institution shall not permit individuals outside the
institution to serve as “sponsors” or “families” for student-athletes who are enrolled in
the institution, unless such a sponsorship program exists to provide the same benefits and
support services to all students at the institution. (Bylaw 16.11.2.6)
Assistance in Payment of Bills. A member institution is not permitted to administer a
fund for a student-athlete (even if funds are provided by the student-athlete) in order to
assist the student-athlete in making payments for various personal expenses (e.g. utility
bills, rent, fees, and entertainment expenses), unless the institution provides such a
service to all student and formal accounting procedures are used. (Bylaw 16.11.2.8)
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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POST ENROLLMENT AMATEURISM (NCAA Bylaw 12) Note: The following summary information is subject to change. The NSU Compliance staff
should be consulted regarding the application of NCAA legislation. Below is a condensed
version of the NCAA Bylaw. The most current information can be found at
www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/amateurism
A. Definition of a professional athletics team (Bylaw 12.02.6): - any organized team that:
1. Provides any of its players more than actual and necessary expenses for
participation on the team, except as otherwise permitted by NCAA legislation.
Actual and necessary expesnese are limited to the following, provided the value
of these items is commensurate with the fair market value in the locality of the
player(s) and is not excessive in nature:
i. Meals directly tied to competition and practice held in preparation for such
competition;
ii. Lodging directly tied to competition and practice held in preparation for
such competition;
iii. Apparel, equipment and supplies;
iv. Coaching and instruction;
v. Health/medical insurance;
vi. Transportation (i.e. expenses to and from practice and competition, cost of
transportation from home to training/practice site at the beginning of the
season and from training/practice site to home at the end of the season);
vii. Medical treatment and physical therapy;
viii. Facility usage;
ix. Entry fees; and
x. Other reasonable expenses; or
2. Declares itself to be professional.
B. Competition with professionals. Following initial full-time collegiate enrollment, an
individual shall not be eligible for intercollegiate athletics in a sport, if the individual
competed on a professional athletics team (per Bylaw 12.02.6) in that sport.(Bylaw
12.2.3.2)
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C. Draft and Inquiry.
1. Inquiry. An individual may inquire of a professional sports organization about
eligibility for a professional-league player draft or request information about the
individual’s market value without affecting his or her amateur status. (Bylaw
12.2.4.1)
2. Draft List. An enrolled student-athlete may enter a professional league’s draft an
unlimited number of times during his or her collegiate career and be drafted by
any team in the league without jeopardizing eligibility in that sport, provided the
student-athlete does not ever agree (orally or in writing) to be represented by an
agentfor the purposes of marketing his or her athletics ability or reputation in that
sport, sign a professional sport contract or otherwise jeopardize his or her amateur
status. (Bylaw 12.2.4.2)
3. Negotiations. An individual may request information about professional market
value without affecting his or her amateur status. Further, the individual, his or
her relatives or legal guardians, the institution’s professional sports counseling
panel or head coach may enter into negotiations with a professional sports
organization without the loss of the individual’s amateur status. An individual
who retains an agent shall lose amateur status. (Bylaw 12.2.4.3)
D. Agent. An individual shall be ineligible for participation in an intercollegiate sport, if he
or she ever has agreed (orally or in writing) to be represented by an agent for the purpose
of marketing his or her athletics ability or reputation in that sport. Further, an agency
contract not specficially limited in writing to a sport or particular sports whall be deemed
applicable to all sports, and the individual shall be ineligibile to participate in any sport.
(Bylaw 12.3.1)
E. Salary/Pay/Benefits. An individual also loses his or her amateur status and shall not be
eligibile for intercollegiate competition in a particular sport if the individual:
1. Uses athletics skills for pay in any form in that sport. (Bylaw 12.1.4(a))
2. Accepts a promise of pay even if such pay is to be received following completion
of intercollegiate athletics participation. (Bylaw 12.1.4(b))
3. Accepts any direct or indirect salary, gratuity, or comparable compensation for
his/her participation in athletics. (Bylaw 12.1.4(c))
4. Receives any division or split of surplus (e.g., bonuses, game receipts)). (Bylaw
12.1.4(d))
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5. Receives, directly or indirectly, any salary, reimbursement of expenses, or any
othe form of financial assistance from a professional sports organization based on
athletics skill or participation (except as permitted by NCAA rules and
regulations). (Bylaw 12.1.4(f))
6. Enters into an agreement with or receives benefits from an agent. (Bylaw
12.1.4(h))
7. Receives cash, or the equivalent thereof, as an award for participation in
competiion at any time, even if such award is permitted under the rules governing
an amateur, noncollegiate event in which the individual is participating. (Bylaw
12.1.4(j))
8. Receives expenses incurred or awards that are prohibited by the rules governing
an amateur, noncollegiate eent in which the invidiaul participates. (Bylaw
12.1.4(k))
9. Receives any expenses, including actual and necessary expenses or any other
form of compensation, to participate in athletics competition (while not
representing an educational institution) from a sponsor other than an individual on
whom the athlete is naturally or legally dependent or the nonprofessional
organization that is sponsoring the competition. (Bylaw 12.1.4(m))
10. Receives payment for unspecified or unitemized expenses beyond the actual and
necessary travel, room and board expenses for practices and competition. (Bylaw
12.1.4(n))
11. Receives any payment, including actual and necessary expenses, conditioned on
the individual’s or team’s place, finish or performance or given on an incentive
basis, or receives expenses in excess of the same reasonable amount for
permissible expenses given to all individuals or team members involved in the
competition. (Bylaw 12.1.4(o))
12. Receives a prize for participation (involving the use of athletics ability) in a
member institution’s promotional activity that is inconcsistent with the provisions
of Bylaw 12.5. (Bylaw012.1.4(p))
13. Participates for pay in competition that involves the use of overall athletics skill
(e.g., “superstars” competition). (Bylaw 12.1.4(q))
14. Receives preferential treatment, benefits or services because of the individual’s
athletics reputation, skill or pay-back potential as a professional athlete, unless
such treatment, benefits or services are specifically permitted under NCAA
legislation. (Bylaw 12.1.4(r))
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35
F. Contract. An individual also loses his or her amateur status and shall not be eligibile for
intercollegiate competition in a particular sport if the individual signs a contract with a
professional team regardless of its legal enforceability or any consideration received.
(Bylaw 12.1.4(e))
G. Educational Expenses. An individual loses his or her amateur status and shall not be
eligible for intercollegiate competition in a particular sport if the individual accepts
educational expenses subsequent to collegiate enrollment by an outside sports team or
organization that are based in any degree on the recipient’s athletics ability, even if the
funds are given to the institution to administer to the recipient. (Bylaw 12.1.4(i))
PRACTICE /COUNTABLE ATHLETICALLY-RELATED ACTIVITY (CARA) Countable athletically-related activities include any required activity with an athletics purpose
involving student-athletes and at the direction of, or supervised by, any members or members of
an institution’s coaching staff (including strength and conditioning coaches) and must be counted
within the weekly and limitations under Bylaw 17. As a student-athlete at NSU, you may be
asked to log into the ACS site and verify the weekly Play/Practice Log sheet for your sport.
You may also be requested to meet with the FAR and/or the Associate AD in order to
discuss countable athletically related activity per your assigned log sheet. Therefore, it is
important that all student-athletes familiarize themselves with NCAA rules pertaining to
countable athletically-related activity. Here are some tips to help:
WHAT COUNTS
Practices (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Athletic meetings initiated by, or required by, a coach (ex. Team meetings about
athletic matters, end of season individual meetings). (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Competition (and associated activities, regardless of their length, count as 3 hours).
(Bylaw 17.02.2, 17.1.6.3.2) Note: No countable athletically-related activities may
occur after the competition. (Bylaw 17.1.6.3.2.2)
Field, floor, or on-court activities (Bylaw 17.02.1)
On court or on field activities called by any member of the team and confined
primarily to members of that team at the direction or coordination of a coaching staff
member. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Required weight training and conditioning activities. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Visiting the competition site in the sports of cross-country and golf. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Discussion or review of game films. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
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WHAT DOESN’T
Compliance Meetings. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Meetings with coach initiated by a S-A (as long as no countable activities occur).
(Bylaw 17.02.1)
Team meetings that serve administrative purposes. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Drug/Alcohol educational meetings, SAAC or Student-Athlete Affairs Meetings.
(Bylaw 17.02.1)
Study Hall, tutoring or academic meetings. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Travel to/from the site of competition (as long as NO countable activities occur).
(Bylaw 17.02.1)
Training room activities (treatment, taping, etc.), rehab activities and medical
examinations. (Bylaw 17.02.1)
Recruiting activities (e.g. student host). (Bylaw 17.02.1)
MANDATORY MEDICAL EXAM Prior to participation in any practice, competition, or out-of-season conditioning activities,
student-athletes who are beginning their initial season of eligibility and student-athletes who are
trying out for a team shall be required to undergo a medical examination or evaluation
administered or supervised by a physician (e.g., family physician, team physician). The
examination or evaluation must be administered within 6 months prior to participation in any
practice, competition or out-of-season conditioning activities. In following years, an updated
history of the student-athlete’s medical condition shall be administered by an institutional
medical staff member (e.g., sports medicine staff, team physician) to determine if additional
examinations (e.g., physical, cardiovascular, neurological) are required. The updated history
must be administered within 6 months prior to the student-athlete’s participation in any practice,
competition or out-of-season conditioning activities for the applicable academic year. (Bylaw
17.1.5)
The examination of student-athletes who are beginning their initial season of eligibility at NSU
and students who are trying out for a team shall include a sickle cell solubility test (SST), unless
documented results of a prior taste are provided to the institution or the student-athlete declines
the test and signs a written release, as required by NCAA Bylaws. (Bylaw 17.1.5.1)
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DECLARED PLAYING SEASON For all sports other than basketball, each member institution may divide the playing season into
not more than two segments: Championship and Non-Championship. (Bylaw 17.1.2)
During PRE-SEASON practice prior to the first day of classes or the first scheduled contest,
whichever is earlier, and during an institution’s official vacation period, and during the period
between semesters when classes not in session.
Daily and weekly hour limitations do not apply to countable athletically related activities.
(Bylaw 17.1.6.3.5)
During CHAMPIONSHIP / IN SEASON:
Countable athletically related activities (CARA) may occur not more than 20 hours per
with, a maximum of 4 hours/day. (Bylaw 17.1.6.1)
All CARA are prohibited during one calendar day/ week (i.e., you must receive 1 day
off). (Bylaw 17.1.6.4)
During NON-Championship Segment / Out-of-Season
All CARA are prohibited during two calendar days per week (must receive 2 days off)
during out-of-season activities (Bylaw 17.1.6.5)
Weekly Hour Limitations—Outside of Playing Season. (Bylaw 17.1.6.2)
o Outside of the playing season during the academic year, only a student-athlete’s
participation in weight training, conditioning, team activities and/or skill
instruction shall be permitted, as follows:
(a) In winter championship sports, a student-athlete’s participation in weight
training, conditioning, team activities and/or skill instruction shall be limited to a
maximum of 8 hours/week, of which not more than 2 hours/week hours per week may be spent on team activities and/or skill instruction, as follows:
(1) In basketball, from September 7 or the institution’s 4th day of classes
for the fall term, whichever is earlier, through the day before October 15.
(2) In swimming and diving and track and field, from September 7 or
the institution’s fourth day of classes for the fall term, whichever is earlier,
through the institution’s declared start date of practice.
(b) In spring championship sports, from September 7 or the institution’s fourth
day of classes for the fall term, whichever is earlier, through the day before the
institution’s declared start date of the non-championship segment, a student-
athlete’s participation in weight training, conditioning, team activities and/or skill
instruction shall be limited to a maximum of 8 hours/week, of which not more
than 2 hours/ week may be spent on team activities and/or skill instruction;
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38
(c) In fall championship sports, from the beginning of the institution’s second
term of the academic year (e.g., winter quarter, spring semester) through the day
before the institution’s declared start date of the non-championship segment, a
student-athlete’s participation in weight training, conditioning, team activities
and/or skill instruction shall be limited to a maximum of 8 hours/week, of which
not more than 2 hours/ week may be spent on team activities and/or skill
instruction;
(d) In National Collegiate Championships sports, from the beginning of the
institution’s academic year through the day before the institution’s declared start
date of practice, a student-athlete’s participation in weight training, conditioning,
team activities and skill instruction shall be limited to a maximum of 8
hours/week, of which not more than 2 hours may be spent on team activities
and/or skill instruction; and
(e) Following the institution’s final contest or date of competition in the segment
that concludes with the NCAA Championship, a student-athlete is prohibited from
engaging in CARA for a 14-consecutive-calendar-day period. Between the end of
the 14-consecutive-calendar-day break period or the endof the non-
chmampionship segment, and 1 week prior to the beginning of the final exam
period, a student-athlete’s participation in weight training, conditioning and skill
instruction shall be limited to a max of 8 hours/week, of which not more than 2
hours/week may be spent on skill instruction set forth in Bylaw 17.1.6.2.2.
Institutional Final Exam Period
All countable athletically related activities outside the playing season are prohibited one week
prior to the beginning of the institution’s final examination period through the conclusion
of the institution’s final examinations. Participation in voluntary individual workouts
monitored by strength and conditioning personnel for safety purposes per Bylaw 17.02.13 shall
not count against the weekly hour limitation. (Bylaw 17.1.6.2.5)
During WINTER BREAK
A student-athlete shall not participate in any athletically related activity in NSU Athletic
facilities from December 20th through 26th. (Bylaw 17.1.6.6.3)
Institutional Vacation Period
A student-athlete may not participate in any countable athletically-related activities outside the
playing season during any institutional vacation period (e.g., summer, academic year). (Bylaw
17.1.6.2.6)
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39
HOSTING A PROSPECTIVE STUDENT-ATHLETE (“PSA”) OFFICIAL
VISIT A maximum of $30 for each day of the visit to cover all actual costs of entertaining the
prospective student-athlete (and the PSA’s relative or legal guardians), excluding the cost of
meals and admission to campus athletics events. These funds may not be used for the
purchase of souvenirs such as T-Shirts or other institutional mementos. (Bylaw 13.6.6.5)
It is permissible to provide the student host with an additional $15 per day for each additional
PSA the host entertains; (Bylaw 13.6.6.5)
A complimentary meal, provided the student host is accompanying the PSA during the PSA’s
official visit; (Bylaw 13.6.6.5)
A complimentary admission to a campus athletics event provided the ticket is used to
accompany a PSA to that event during the PSA’s official visit. (Bylaw 13.6.6.5)
No cash may be given to the visiting prospect or to anyone accompanying the prospect.
(Bylaw 13.6.6.4)
Multiple Hosts. If several students host a perspective student-athlete, the $30 per day
entertainment money may be used to cover the actual and necessary expenses incurred by the
prospective student athlete and all hosts. Only one student host per prospective student-athlete
may be provided a free meal if restaurant facilities are used. (Bylaw 13.6.6.5.1)
Non-qualifier Prohibition. A non-qualifier may not serve as a student host during his/her first
academic year in residence. (Bylaw 13.6.6.5.2)
Use of Automobile. You may not use vehicles provided or arranged for by any coach,
institutional staff member or booster of the university. Never allow the prospect to use or drive
your car. (Bylaw 13.6.6.5.3)
Student Support Group Assisting in Recruiting. An institution may not provide a free meal or
entertainment to a member of an institutional student support group that assists in the recruitment
of a prospective student-athlete during an official visit, unless the student is designated as the one
student host for that prospective student-athlete. (Bylaw 13.6.6.6)
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
40
SSC INTRA-CONFERENCE TRANSFER RULE (SSC BYLAWS, ARTICLE 20) BYLAWS, ARTICLE 20 – INTRA-CONFERENCE TRANSFER RULE (Revised 6//10/06)
20.1 Sunshine State Conference member institutions are obligated to observe all of the NCAA
transfer regulations in NCAA Bylaw 14.5, including those for non-qualifiers.
20.2 SSC Intra-Conference Transfer Policy.
A student-athlete, as defined by Bylaw 12.02.5 of the NCAA Division II Manual, who
transfers from one Conference institution directly to another SSC institution shall not be
eligible for intercollegiate competition until the student-athlete has fulfilled a residence
requirement of two full academic years (four full semesters or six full quarters) at the certifying
institution. Further, a transfer student-athlete admitted after the 12th class cannot utilize that
semester or quarter for the purpose of establishing residency.
20.2.1 Any combination of collegiate attendance/non-attendance in the interim between
transferring from one SSC institution to another must equal the equivalent of two full academic
years. All NCAA and SSC eligibility, satisfactory progress and transfer-rule requirements must
be met in order to be certified for intercollegiate competition.
** Please see the Director of Athletics, Associate AD, or Compliance Coordinator if you
have any questions regarding this SSC rule.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES/APPEALS PROCESS, STUDENT-ATHLETE NSU student-athletes have the right to appeal decisions made by coaching and/or athletic staff
regarding matters of discipline or comportment, including suspension or dismissal from a team
or the allocation of athletics grants-in-aid. The policy outlined herein does not apply to matters
involving the use of banned substances (i.e., positive result drug test), which is a separate
procedure. Student-athletes (hereafter SAs) are encouraged to familiarize themselves with this
procedure and all others contained within this handbook and other NSU documents, including
academic catalogs and Office of Student Life publications regarding their rights to due process.
Appeals regarding team membership and discipline are made to the Faculty Athletic
Representative (hereafter referred to as the FAR), who serves as a student-athlete advocate in the
ensuring process. When an NSU student-athlete deems a coaching or administrative decision
other than a policy decision or one made during the course of an athletic contest, serious enough
to warrant an appeal, he/she should contact the FAR directly.
As the principle advocate of SAs and the integrity of the athletic program on campus, the FAR
should meet with the SA to discuss their complaint. During this discussion, the FAR will assess
the seriousness of the situation in regards to NSU, NCAA, Sunshine State Conference or Peach
Belt Conference policies, procedures and by-laws. Note that mere inquiries about submitting an
appeal or about NSU, NCAA, Sunshine State Conference or Peach Belt Conference Policies do
not, in themselves, constitute the filing of an appeal. Rather, an appeal consist of a formal,
written process comprised principally of a letter composed by the SA to the FAR (further details
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
41
provided below) and accompanied by appropriate documentation. In some cases, the FAR may
assist the SA in preparing the letter or in obtaining the relevant materials.
The FAR will serve as a neutral chairperson of an ad-hoc committee chosen by him or her to
hear the appeal. This committee will be made up of at least five but no more than eight members
and will include the FAR; at least two faculty members drawn from any division, department or
college of the university; one person from the Office of Student Life; and at least one other
member of the NSU staff or administration whose expertise may be relevant, such as a member
of the admissions, financial aid, public safety, or academic advising staffs, as well as
representatives of the Student Government Association (SGA), NSU Student Athlete Advisory
Committee (NSU-SAAC), or Faculty Athletics Advisory Board (FAAB). Members of the
coaching staff or athletic administration are not excluded from sitting on the hearing committee,
but, should the dispute occur between a SA and an NSU coach or administrator, the latter party
in each case would be excluded from the committee (the vast majority of athletic department
appeals would fit this category). The committee itself, in the pursuit of its charge, may in
addition, call upon any NSU faculty or staff members whose testimony may be helpful or which
may otherwise guarantee a full and fair hearing. These may include, in addition to the
aforementioned individuals, coaches or members of the athletic administrative or support staff.
The charge of the appeals committee is to 1) assess the validity of the claim made by the
SA; and 2) recommend to the Director of Athletics a subsequent course of action designed
to rectify the situation, if deemed necessary.
If an appeals committee is convened in response to an SA’s formal grievance, the decision
of the appeals committee with regard to the case shall be considered final and binding on
both the SA and coaches or administrators. Both parties in the dispute will agree to abide
by the decision of the committee.
The formal procedure is as follows:
1. The SA shall write a letter to the FAR, which shall contain formal notice
of his/her intent to begin the appeal process. This letter shall be
submitted within seven (7) days of the incident via email to the FAR.
The letter should consist of a carefully written, detailed account of the
matter in question, including a complete history and a thorough factual
account of the incident in dispute. In addition, the submission should
include all relevant and appropriate documentation, including, but not
limited to, copies of transcripts, letters of acceptance of athletic grant-in-
aid, relevant by-laws from the current NCAA Manual, Sunshine State
Conference Handbook or NSU Student-Athlete Handbook. The
submission of character references or letters from prior or other coaches
or administrators is discouraged. It may contain a statement from the SA
regarding what he/she seeks as an appropriate remedy, solution, or
restitution.
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42
2. The FAR shall determine whether the SA’s request for an appeal
satisfies the conditions outlined above and warrants the assembly of the
appeals committee. The FAR is also responsible for determining
whether the incident in dispute is an appropriate matter for appeal within
the NSU Athletic Department or whether the incident should be
addressed within an appeals procedure under another department of the
University (i.e., Office of Student Affairs, Office of Student Financial
Assistance, etc.).
3. The FAR shall reply in writing to the SA, acknowledging receipt of the
appeal request. This letter MUST contain the two paragraphs, which
appear in bold type above, and this same letter or a subsequent one shall
inform the SA whether the appeals committee will be formed as well as
the composition of the committee and the time and date of the hearing.
4. If it is determined that an appeal under NSU Student-Athlete Handbook
grievance procedure is warranted, the FAR is responsible for forming
the committee after receipt of the appeal and distributing copies of all
documentation to the committee membership prior to its first meeting.
5. The FAR shall convene the committee to further elaborate on the case
and respond to any questions the committee members may have. The SA
shall represent himself/herself at the hearing. These proceedings are
intended to be non-adversarial.
6. The coach or administrator in the dispute, again representing
him/herself, shall appear separately before the committee to state his/her
side of the case and respond to questions from the committee
membership.
7. The committee may proceed immediately to deliberation or ask for more
information from either the SA, coach, administrator, or from other
members of the NSU community whose expertise may be relevant
before proceeding to deliberation. The SA, coach and/or administrator,
and the Director of Athletics shall be informed of any subsequent
meetings.
8. Upon reaching a decision, the committee shall charge the FAR with informing the SA of the
committee’s decision in writing. The FAR shall also forward a copy of its decision, along with
recommendations, to the Director of Athletics.
9. In the normal cause of events, the entire process should be completed within the academic
school semester in which the situation arose or the grievance process was filed. However, more
complex cases or those filed at the end of an academic semester may take longer.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
43
Athletic Financial Aid- Reductions/Cancellations/Renewals/ and Non-renewals (see also
NCAA Bylaw 15.6.5). NSU’s Office of Student Financial Aid will inform you if your Athletic
Financial Aid will not be renewed for the following academic year, or if it will be reduced or
cancelled. Your Head Coach will discuss with you all renewals of Athletic Financial Aid. You
may appeal, if you wish, to the Financial Aid Grievance Committee in steps outlined by the
documentation you will receive from their office. The letter will provide information on NSU’s
appeal procedures should you wish to appeal the decision of the Athletic Department. An SA’s
final appeal should be requested in writing to the Director of Student Financial Aid within 10
days of receiving formal notification from the Office of Student Financial Aid. If requested, a
prompt hearing will be conducted before the University Financial Aid Appeals Committee. In
addition, NSU’s Office of Student Financial Aid will officially notify in writing each SA who
received an award the previous academic year, whether the grant has not been renewed for the
ensuing academic year.
EQUIPMENT POLICIES
All student-athletes will be issued athletic apparel and/or equipment at the beginning of their
sport season. Student-athletes are responsible for all equipment that is issued to them. At the end
of the season, ALL student-athletes are required to return all issued equipment. Failure to do so
will result in an athletic hold being placed on the SA’s account and will remain until all
equipment is returned. Student-Athletes will be required to replace any item that is lost,
intentionally damaged, or damaged due to misuse. The Student-Athlete will assume the cost of
the replacement for the item. Failure to replace/repay NSU for the equipment will result in an
athletic hold being placed on the SA’s account and will remain until the situation has been
resolved.
Note: NSU issued equipment is to be used only during regular varsity practice and/or games.
Uniforms are to be worn only during games and sanctioned public appearances. Uniforms are not
to be worn to class or socially.
Any questions should be directed to: Brayan Valencia 954-262-4148 or [email protected]
STUDENT-ATHLETE SURVEYS
Upon the completion of each Championship season, every student-athlete will have the
opportunity to complete a Student-Athlete Experience Survey. The Questionnaire will cover all
aspects of the student-athletes experience while at NSU, sport specific and in general to include:
coaching evaluation, academics, athletic training, and overall experience. For more information
on Student-Athlete Experince Surveys, please contact the Associate AD for Compliance/SWA at
(954) 262-8280.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
44
ATHLETIC FINANCIAL AID
All financial aid granted by the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics is contingent upon
completing the necessary number of credit hours required by NSU on the academic progress
scale. Student-athletes who drop below this requirement put their financial aid & eligibility in
jeopardy.
You may have been awarded financial aid in the form of an athletic scholarship, which is based
on your athletic ability. You must meet University admission requirements, be fully admitted,
and successfully complete the required credit hours per academic year in order for this award to
be valid. This award is made in accordance with institutional regulations and is subject to
conditions stated below:
1. Period of institutional financial aid. Athletic financial aid is awarded for a period of one
academic year only (per NCAA bylaw 15.6.3.1). The Department of Athletics may
recommend to the financial aid authority that financial aid be renewed each year. However
you are hereby informed that the renewal will not be automatic (per NCAA Bylaw
15.6.3.1.1) and will remain at the discretion of the Department of Athletics.
2. Reduction or Cancellation permitted. The Department of Athletics reserves the right to
reduce or cancel institutional financial aid during the period of the award, pursuant to NCAA
Bylaw 15.6.4.1., for reasons of (1) ineligibility; (2) fraduluent misrepresentation of any
information on an application, letter of intent or financial aid agreement; (3) engaging in
serious misconduct warranting substantial disciplinary penalty; or (4) voluntary withdrawal
from a sport at any time by the SA.
3. The student-athlete shall be subject to all academic rules and requirements for eligibility
regarding registering credits and attained credits. Academic failure resulting in ineligibility
shall be cause for cancellation of this award.
4. The student athlete is encouraged to COMPLETE the Free Application for Federal Student
Aid (FASFA) and all forms of financial aid, and complete the financial aid process. If the
student-athlete receives any other financial assistance, this award is subject to revision based
on the need factor established by the Office of Financial Aid and the maximum allowance of
aid as set forth by the NCAA.
5. The student-athlete shall abide by all team rules and regulations as set forth by the coach and
adhere to athletic policies/procedures as set for the by the Director of Athletics.
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
45
6. The student-athlete shall represent Nova Southeastern University in a respectable manner at
all times. Failure to act accordingly can result in dismissal from the team and loss of athletic
financial aid.
7. All Post-Eligibility awards are subject to service to the Department of Athletics.
** All athletic financial aid is issued for one academic year only and is subject to renewal **
Renewals
The renewal of institutional financial aid, based in any degree on athletics ability, shall be made
in writing to you on or before July 1 of the academic year in which it is said to be effective, the
coach discussing your renewal and award letter with the NSU Financial Aid office providing
official notice. The Financial Aid office will process awards in a timely fashion and they will
show in your account at that time.
Voluntary leaving / withdrawal from the University
If a student-athlete decides to leave a varsity team on his or her own accord, he/she might be
subject to the forfeiture of any or all athletic financial aid as of the date of departure from
that team. This will be determined by the coach and athletic administration. (Bylaw 15.1.1.2)
Dismissal or Departure from the Athletic Team
If a student-athlete is dismissed from a varsity team because of inappropriate conduct, on or off
the field, which violates policies of the team or university, all athletic financial aid shall be
forfeited at the completion of the season or at the time of the incident, and at the discretion of the
administration or coach. (Bylaw 15.6.4.1.3)
Dismissal or Departure from the University
If a student-athlete chooses to withdraw from the University, the following are required actions
that he/she MUST take:
Notify the Coordinator of Athletic Academic Services to assure that all academic issues
are properly taken care of;
Contact your Academic Advisor and make him/her aware that you are withdrawing;
Take care of any Financial Aid issues; AND
Notify the Athletic Department Compliance office
Summer Financial Aid and Summer School
You should make every effort to maintain satisfactory progress toward a degree during the
academic year. If, despite your best efforts, you must attend summer school, please consult with
your coach and academic advisor. Summer Aid is awarded at the discretion of the Director of
Athletics. Requests for summer financial aid must be made directly to your coach via the
Summer School Aid Request Form. If approved, your coach will seek final approval from the
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
46
Director of Athletics. You will receive an email regarding your summer financial aid decision
from the administration with official notification to come from the NSU Financial Aid Office
through your student account. Deadline for request is April 3rd.
DEGREE COMPLETION AWARD
Who can submit application for a Degree Completion Scholarship?
Student-athletes who need additional time to complete the degree requirements and who have
exhausted their athletic eligibility.
Procedure for submitting an application
You must submit a letter addressed to the Director of Athletics formally submitting your name
for consideration. This letter can be sent via email to the Associate AD for Compliance, Sport
Administration & Internal Ops/SWA and must include the following:
a. Your N# and major
b. An explanation of benefits derived from participating as an NSU athlete
c. Reasons (personal, financial, etc.) why the application should be given special
consideration
d. A brief paragraph on academic and career goals
e. A brief paragraph suggesting how you might render service to the Athletic Department or
the University in lieu of athletic team participation for the duration of the Post –
Eligibility award.
f. A plan of study indicating how you will complete graduation degree requirements. Your
plan must be verified by your academic advisor and the Academic Coordinator. It must
also show the remaining course work on a semester by semester basis.
*You may also be asked to apply for the NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award in
addition to this application.
DEADLINE
Application must be received by May 1st of the academic year in which you complete your
final year of eligibility.
*The award will cover tuition and fees of your remaining coursework up to the amount of your
athletic scholarship during your final year of competition. Please note, it does not include any
housing, meal plan or books.
*The awarding of this aid is subject to the approval of the Director of Athletics who will renew
the application based on the criteria listed below. In addition, head coaches will be asked to
verify that you have abided by all team policies and have displayed a cooperative attitude to
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
47
the team, the Athletic Department, and Nova Southeastern University. After considering all
factors, it is possible that the Director of Athletics may recommend no aid be awarded.
*Please note that the NCAA rules do not require NSU to continue providing athletic aid once
eligibility has been exhausted. The fact that NSU makes this aid available is a reflection of how
strong the University is committed to the “student” first in the term “student-athlete.”
QUALIFYING TO RECEIVE A DEGREE COMPLETION SCHOLARSHIP IS A
PRIVILEGE NOT A RIGHT!
Award Criteria
1. No more than 30 credit hours remain beyond the current semester to complete
graduation degree requirements.
2. Verification by the Academic Coordinator that the candidate will be able to satisfy degree
requirements and be able to graduate within no more than 3 additional semesters.
3. Recommendation from your head coach confirming your compliance with all NCAA,
NSU, Athletic Department, and team policies.
4. The following factors will adversely impact your application for this aid & may actually
result in denial of this aid if there are excessive abuses within any category:
a.) Changes of major/minor after the junior year;
b.) Excessive electives in place of courses required for the major/minor;
c.) D’s or F’s in courses required for the major/minor;
d.) Withdrawals, especially those during semesters in which you received athletic aid,
that already covered the costs associated with this enrollment;
e.) Semesters in which you completed fewer than the recommended 15 credit hours
f.) Degree Completion Workshop
The recipient of post-eligibility aid must satisfy all of the following:
1. Commit to a designated number of hours and events for each semester of their award to
volunteer in the athletic offices and/or home NSU contests.
2. Report for service as assigned on the specified days and at the times stipulated.
3. Follow exactly the graduation plan of study submitted at the time application was
submitted for this award. Any deviations from this plan must be approved in advance.
4. Maintain a 2.0 GPA each semester and cumulative GPA. If the degree program in the
major imposes a higher GPA, then that requirement must be met.
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NOTE: Failure to comply with any of the above requirements may RESULT IN
IMMEDIATE CANCELLATION OF THE AWARD (including at anytime during the
semester or retroactively if the stipulations identified above are not completed).
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT IN THE DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS
Nova Southeastern University participates in several types of student employment programs: the
federally funded Federal Work-Study (FWS), the America Reads and America Counts Programs
(also funded by FWS), the institutionally funded Nova Southeastern University Student
Employment Program (NSUSE), and the Job Location and Development Program (JLD).
The objectives of the student employment programs are to:
Offer jobs to students who need to earn funds; help pay for educational expenses.
Provide work experience that will enhance the students’ educational and/or occupational
goals.
Provide services that would otherwise not exist for Nova Southeastern University or for
other participating public or private profit and nonprofit organizations.
General questions concerning the student employment programs at NSU should be directed to
the Coordinator of Student Employment at 800-806-3680, Monday through Friday 8:30 am -
5:00 pm. The Student Employment Office is in the Office of Student Financial Assistance,
located in the Horvitz Administration Building. Further student employment information is
available on the NSU Financial Aid web site at www.nova.edu/cwis/finaid/stuemployment.html.
NSU’s student employment programs are administered in accordance with the University’s
nondiscrimination policies which can be found in the NSU Employee Policy Manual. NSU
prohibits and will not tolerate any discrimination on the basis of race, color, creed, pregnancy,
religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation,
genetic information (GINA) or other characteristics protected by law.
There are various opportunities for student employment within the Department of Athletics in
the areas of game operations, equipment room, and the front desk. If you are offered a position as
a student worker within the Department of Athletics, your supervisor will notify Ms. Cathy
Pace, Assistant to the AD/Coordinator of Employee Services, of their intent to hire you. Ms.
Pace will provide you with a SEAF (Student Employment Authorization Form) which you will
complete and return to her. All other pertinent paperwork, for your Student Employment
position will be completed in the Student Employment Office located in the Horvitz
Administrative Building. Please be prepared to present original identification at that time
(Example: original valid passport. If you do not have a valid passport you will then be required
to present 2 forms of original ID (Driver’s License and/or Social Security Card or Birth
Certificate.
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If you are an International Student applying for a student worker position you will need to follow
the guidelines set forth by the International Office and the Student Employment Office. As an
International Student if you are interested in securing a student employment position, it is
required that you obtain a social security card. You may only work on the campus of NSU with
this social security card. The International Office will assist you with this process.
Ms. Pace will provide you with the necessary paperwork for you to complete and will make
copies of the original IDs you provide. The forms are also available from the Athletics front
office. If you have any questions or concerns please contact Ms. Pace at (954)-262-8252 or
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ATHLETIC COMMUNICATIONS
The Nova Southeastern University Athletic Communications office is located on the second floor
of the Shark Athletics Building, located on NSU’s main campus. The NSU athletic
communications staff can be reached by contacting (954) 262-8261 or (954) 262-8275. The Athletic Communications department provides a variety of services to the department of
athletics and the news media. Athletic Communication duties include keeping statistical data of
each athletic event, providing digital media guides, game programs, schedule posters and press
releases. In addition, the Athletic Communications department organizes game-day operations
and provides information to local and national news media and student-athletes’ hometown
papers. A member of the NSU Athletic Communications staff will be present at home games as
well as travel to selected NSU athletic teams for road contests.
The Athletic Communications department maintains, creates and manages all editorial,
statistical, and biographical content for the NSU Athletics website. The NSU Athletics website
can be accessed on the internet at www.NSUSharks.com. The NSU Athletics website also
provides multimedia features such as live audio/video streaming, enhanced live stats view of
selected events, and access to official social media platforms.
The Athletic Communications department also publishes the Sharks Sport Update, a free weekly
NSU Department of Athletes electronic newsletter that can be subscribed to on the NSU
Athletics homepage. Sharks Sports Update provides NSU fans with weekly headlines,
player/coach features, game recaps, game previews, information on upcoming special events and
promotions and many other newsworthy items.
The Athletic Communications department will work with the Athletics Special Events and
Marketing staff in hosting and publicizing numerous special events including National Girls &
Women in Sports Day, the NSU Athletics Hall of Fame Banquet and other community activities.
PRESS INTERVIEWS
Press interviews can be one of the most intimidating yet rewarding experiences for a student-
athlete and/or coach. The key to a successful interview is advance preparation. If you or your
student-athletes are scheduled to conduct a media interview, please have them consult with a
member of the Athletics Communication staff for help. The NSU Athletics Communication staff
can prepare you and your student-athletes for tough interviews by presenting possible media
questions and scenarios.
During ALL in person interviews, please dress appropriately. It is important to represent the
NSU athletic department in a crisp and professional manner whenever possible.
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Please note: All interviews with student-athletes, coaches and/or staff must be coordinated
through the Athletics Communication staff. EVERYONE is cautioned not to accept phone
interviews unless they are set up by a member of the Athletics Communication staff. Legitimate
media outlets will generally contact the Athletics Communication office to schedule interviews.
However, on the chance you are contacted directly, you are to direct them to contact the Athletic
Communications office to schedule a time for the interview. If the requests are extensive, a press
conference will be called. If requested, a regular time may be established for media
representative to meet with you.
SOCIAL MEDIA / NETWORKING POLICY
Nova Southeastern University recognizes that most student-athletes participate in the networking
and social opportunities offered by social networking sites. Social networking sites expand one’s
reach immensely and there are many valuable uses of these networks. In the spirit of our
University’s mission, we wish to encourage free speech in this online setting.
However, there are a number of concerns with social networking sites of which you should be
aware. Realize that information you post without using appropriate privacy settings may be
available to anyone including university or athletic department personnel, law enforcement
personnel, media, fans or opposing fans, stalkers/predators/criminals, graduate school admissions
officers, potential employers, professional scouts or even your parents.
How to prevent irresponsible use and unwanted consequences in regards to social networking:
Understand and USE the privacy settings on social networking sites. If you do not, your
personal information is available to the entire world
Remember that what you post is accessible long after you remove it
Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site. Opposing fans may use this
information to taunt or harass you
Do not post or participate in any endorsement of commercial (for profit) products,
services, or local establishments via social media. Such behavior constitutes an NCAA
violation and can impact your eligibility to participate
Do not provide personal identifying information such as date of birth, phone numbers,
home addresses or class schedules. Do not provide information regarding the travel plans
of your team. Predators/stalkers/criminals may use this information to target you for
harassment or criminal attack or to engage in identity theft
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Don’t infringe on the privacy of your friends, teammates, coaches, or athletic department.
Never post personal information (including injuries) of others that could be embarrassing
to your team or your University. The media may use this information to place you or
your teammates in a negative light
Remember that Agents or “runners” may utilize these sites to contact you which may
adversely affect your NCAA eligibility
Employers may use this information adversely if they perceive your sites to be immature
or unprofessional as they gather information for a background check. Former student-
athletes have been denied jobs because of this reason
Graduate School Admissions Officers may use this information to ascertain your
maturity and professional growth
Displaying behavior that violates federal and/or state law will have consequences
including but not limited to suspension from team activities or removal of team
membership.
Disciplinary Actions
You are a representative of Nova Southeastern University and Nova Southeastern University
Athletics. You must adhere to the rules and policies of your team, the Athletics Department,
Nova Southeastern University and the NCAA to avoid disciplinary actions. Coaches, with
support of the Athletic Department, may develop their own rules in regards to social networking.
Failure to comply may result in disciplinary actions.
If a violation is detrimental to your team or violates team rules, your head coach and athletic
administrator will be made aware of your actions and may invoke appropriate sanctions.
Sanctions imposed may include, but are not limited to:
Meeting with head coach and administrator
Educational seminars in reaction to postings
Notice to remove the inappropriate posting or photo
Temporary suspension from the team
Indefinite suspension from the team
Non-renewal of athletic grant-in-aid
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ATHLETIC TRAINING / SPORTS MEDICINE
The NSU Athletic Training staff is responsible for the prevention, care, and rehabilitation of
athletic injuries. Each athlete must cooperate with the athletic training staff to ensure the best
treatment. This includes being on time for all pre-game treatments, rehabilitation sessions and
appointments with physicians.
The business of athletic training is to provide:
1. The highest quality services, assistance, and care to NSU student-athletes.
2. The athletic training staff consists of Athletic Trainers licensed to practice in the state of
Florida.
3. We also have two physical therapists who consult in treatment and rehabilitation
procedures when warranted by the athletic training staff.
4. Team Physicians and Sports Medicine Fellows
The Student-Athlete’s Responsibility 1. Report all injuries, no matter how small, immediately to the athletic training staff, or
coach if the AT is unreachable.
2. Obey all safety rules and regulations; use prescribed pads and equipment, strapping,
wrapping, and other protective equipment (shin guards, mouth guards, etc.).
3. Carry out to the fullest all conditioning and rehabilitation programs prescribed by the
athletic training staff, physician and/or coach.
4. Report on time for all treatments and doctor appointments.
5. Provide proof of valid health insurance, comparable to the NSU Student Health
Insurance, as per the University’s policy.
6. Follow the athletic accident insurance claims process (detailed in section F) for all
injuries/illnesses occurring during an NCAA-sanctioned and supervised event
(practice, game, strength & conditioning, individuals, etc)
General Policies 1. The athletic training staff is responsible for developing preventative techniques and
procedures that will benefit the athlete.
2. Athletes must not remove supplies or equipment from the athletic training room without
the permission of the athletic training staff. All equipment must be returned. Do not
attempt any treatment without the athletic training staff’s awareness.
3. The athletic training room is for treatment and rehabilitation purposes only.
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4. The athletic training room must be kept clean.
5. Athletes are not allowed to use the refrigerator, ice machines, or cabinets.
6. Athletes are not permitted to use the telephone or computer in the athletic training room.
7. The athletic training staff will help student-athletes set up appointments with team
physicians as needed.
8. Athletes may not rough house and/or horseplay in the showers, locker room, or athletic
training room.
9. Athletes will be responsible for non-sport related injuries.
10. Athletes must treat all athletic training and sports medicine staff with respect.
11. Athletes must refrain from eating or drinking in the athletic training room.
12. Athletes must refrain from using abusive and profane language at all times.
12. HydroWorx rules – shower before using, appropriate apparel, no use unless supervised.
13. Lightning policy - When lightning has been detected within 12 miles, the athletic trainer,
or coach if AT is not present, should be looking to suspend all activity and seek a
lightning-safe shelter. When lightning has been detected within 6 miles, all activity
should be suspended and we should be inside a lightning-safe shelter. The NSU Athletic
Training Staff will defer to the Weather Data system to decide when it is safe to resume
outdoor activity.
Facilities 1. From Monday through Friday, the Athletic Training Clinics are open, at a minimum,
during these hours:
8:30 AM – 11:30 AM – specific times for treatment, rehabilitation and emergencies.
12:30 PM until practices or games are completed- pre-practice/games treatments only; in-
season sports get priority.
Weekend hours will be arranged around in season practices and games.
a. The athletic training staff schedules treatment times and athletes are required to report
at that time.
b. The athletic training room will be open a minimum of two hours prior to competition
for treatment and taping and one hour prior to practices.
2. Equipment
a. The modalities used in the athletic training room are to be used only under the direct
supervision of the athletic training staff.
b. Supplies and equipment may not be removed from the athletic training room without
consent of the athletic training staff. All supplies given out will be recorded and must
be returned by the athlete. If the athlete fails to return supplies, he/she will be billed
to their student account for the missing item(s).
3. Sports Medicine Clinic Hours- Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm. (954) 262-5590
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Cooperative Medical Assistance
1. Health Professions Department Clinic (HPD)
All NSU students have the opportunity to access the HPD Clinic. Services are provided
to those having health insurance accepted by the HPD Clinic. The family clinic hours are
Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 12:00 Noon and 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM, as well as
9:00 am – noon on Saturdays. The student health clinic operates from 12:00 noon to 7:00
pm, Monday through Friday. The clinics accept walk-ins from up to 1 hour before
closing of each session but acceptance of insurance must be in place. This service may be
used by the student-athlete for illness or injuries not related to participation in supervised
or organized practice or intercollegiate games. The athletic training staff if deemed
necessary may also recommend the use of the clinics. All student-athletes should notify a
member of the athletic training staff or their respective coach if going for consultation.
The NSU Department of Athletics is responsible for medical services administered to
student-athletes ONLY when injured in a practice or game, which was under the
supervision of the coaches and an NCAA sanctioned event.
2. Hospitalization: In the event of emergency care, serious injury, or illness, the team
physician, athletic training staff and athlete has any of these hospitals at their disposal:
* Broward General Medical Center (Recommended)
1600 South Andrews Avenue
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33308
(954) 355-4400
* Columbia Westside Regional Medical Center
8201 West Broward Boulevard
Plantation, FL
(954) 473-6600
* Memorial Hospital Pembroke
2301 University Drive
Pembroke Pines, FL
(954) 962-9650
3. Stand-alone Emergency Rooms
Westside Regional Medical Center Emergency Room
(University Park Plaza)
3476 South University Drive
Davie, FL 33328
4. Urgent Care Centers
Baptist Medical Plaza (Recommended)
4741 S University Dr
Davie, FL 33328
(954) 837-1050
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Urgent Med
2337 S. University Drive
Davie, FL 33324
(954) 423-9234
Athletic Injury and Medical Procedure
1. Medical Records/Physicals
a. Each student-athlete must successfully complete a pre-participation screening to
qualify for practice and competition in the athletic program. A medical history
must be given to the athletic training staff prior to any participation in any athletic
activity. Pre-participation screenings will be given on specific dates and times
prior to the official start of your sport.
b. If a student-athlete is given a referral for outside consultation during the physical
screening, he/she has not been cleared for participation. The student-athlete or the
student-athletes’ primary insurance is totally responsible for the evaluation and
workup for any pre-existing injuries and/or medical conditions. He/she may not
participate until the referring doctor has given full clearance and approval by the
NSU medical staff.
c. All medical records are filed at the athletic training room. Medical releases and
insurance coverage will be provided to each coach, which will be carried on all
away trips.
d. A pre-participation physical exam is required upon entrance into NCAA
Intercollegiate Athletics.
2. Emergency Procedures
The athletic training staff will follow established guidelines for any emergency. The
athletic training staff will also set-up adequate away coverage. The NSU Emergency
Action Plan can be found at: www.nsusharks.com
3. Treatment
a. All treatments are specified and administered by only the athletic training and
sports medicine staffs.
b. Each athlete is expected to report to the athletic training room for scheduled
treatments. Failure of an injured athlete to keep treatment appointments will be
interpreted as his/her unwillingness to cooperate and may be addressed by his/her
coach.
c. Report to the athletic training room fully dressed and showered with area to be
treated readily accessible. Bring shorts or T-shirt (if needed) for treatment
because changing space will be provided.
d. The athletic training room should not be used as a waiting area.
e. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to schedule a specific appointment
time with a member of the athletic training staff.
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4. Medical Excuses
a. All injured and/or ill athletes are expected to report to practice daily even if for
limited activity, unless the injury or illness hospitalizes the athlete.
b. A physician or athletic training staff member can only grant excuses from practice
for medical reasons.
c. Athletes whose injuries prevent them from competition must be cleared to return
to competition by the athletic training staff and/or team physician.
5. Medical Referrals
a. Any appointment or referral will be made via the athletic training staff and/or a
team physician.
b. Coaches may not refer any athlete to an outside specialist and expect the
University’s insurance policy to pay the bill.
c. Any athlete not following the proper channels, as outlined in 5.a., for medical care
shall not be covered by the school’s insurance for any medical bills incurred.
d. In the event of an injury, an appointed Department of Intercollegiate Athletics
staff member will accompany an athlete to the hospital, if deemed necessary by
the athletic training staff.
e. All athletes injured on an away trip should be returned to NSU if possible. When
a member of the athletic training staff does not accompany the team on a trip, the
coach is responsible for obtaining the help of the home school’s certified athletic
trainer.
Insurance Information for Student Athletes
Nova Southeastern University requires all undergraduate day students and residential on-
campus students to have health insurance. All undergraduate students are automatically
enrolled in the Nova Southeastern University Aetna Health Insurance policy. If you
currently maintain comparable coverage and do not want to purchase the NSU Aetna, you
must waive the NSU Aetna no later than August 25, 2016 by clicking on
http://www.nova.edu/bursar/health-insurance/index.html . The NSU Enrollment and
Student Services Office is the contact for all health insurance related questions. They can
be reached at 954-262-4060.
NCAA rules allow a University to only pay for medical expenses incurred for expenses
for injuries sustained during a NCAA-sanctioned and supervised practice, competition,
and/or strength & conditioning session. (This excludes pre-existing conditions and non-
athletic injuries.) Nova Southeastern University has acquired an athletic accident
insurance policy, through AG Administrators, for your protection in the event of an
injury sustained during an NCAA-sanctioned and supervised practice, competition,
and/or strength & conditioning session. The athletic accident insurance is secondary
coverage and is subject to the following limitations:
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58
1. Only injuries sustained during a NCAA-sanctioned and supervised practice, competition,
and/or strength & conditioning session will be covered. Injuries sustained during
voluntary training and workouts will not be covered.
2. A cardiovascular accident, stroke, or other similar traumatic event caused by exertion
during a NCAA-sanctioned and supervised practice, competition, and/or strength &
conditioning session will be covered
3. Medical Expenses will only be covered if the team physician or the certified athletic
trainer refers the athlete. Non-referred visits or expenses will not be covered by this
policy and as such, will be considered your responsibility.
4. If you are a member of an HMO (Health Maintenance Organizations) or PPO (Preferred
Provider Organization), you must provide us with the authorized medical vendors from
your list. If you choose not to use the authorized medical vendors of the plan, be aware
that our coverage will not be able to pay the bills incurred that would have been honored
had you used the proper medical vendors.
5. During the course of the school year, should an athlete’s primary health insurance
coverage change, the NSU Athletic Training Staff must be notified immediately. Failure
to do so will terminate financial responsibility toward any medical expenses incurred.
6. Secondary coverage is provided for expenses incurred in excess of your primary
insurance coverage. Secondary coverage means that the student-athlete’s primary
insurance must first reach its maximum benefit before this coverage comes into effect.
This athletic accident insurance is designed to pick up any remaining balance not covered
by the family insurance. The bills incurred will be in the student’s name and must be
submitted to the family insurance company.
7. This benefit period is limited to 104 weeks from the date of accident.
THE CLAIMS PROCEDURE
The athlete’s primary insurance information will be given to the medical provider at the time of
treatment. The provider will directly bill the primary insurance company. In no case will the
Athletic Department be the primary place for the bill to be sent.
1. Your primary insurance company will do one of the following;
A. Honor the claim by paying a portion, or the entire bill.
B. Not honor the claim and send you a letter of denial.
2. You will need to send copies of all Explanation of Benefits (EOB) from your primary
insurance and itemized bills to the address on the “Accident Claim Form”. A claim will be
sent to the athletic accident insurance company (AG Administrators) for processing. If the
athletic accident insurance carrier needs any additional information, please cooperate with
them in processing the claim. It is in your best interest to have the claim settled promptly
since all bills incurred are in your name. Payment on the injury claim is contingent on the
nature & circumstances of the injury, and the extent of the insurance coverage.
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3. Your primary insurance must either pay, or decline to pay, before the secondary insurance
will process any bills. You must provide AG Administrators with the Explanation of
Benefits (EOB) from your primary insurance company showing that all bills have been
submitted and processed. It is also important for you to send AG Administrators copies of
any itemized bills with a remaining balance due.
4. If your primary insurance company has been billed 3 consecutive times (120 days) by
Health Professional Division Group or any other medical provider, and no communication
has taken place between the athlete’s parents and the NSU Athletic Training Department
regarding the bill(s), the amount may be placed on the athlete’s student account.
Return to Play Policy
A Nova Southeastern University Physician or his/her designee, in consultation with a
Nova Southeastern University certified athletic trainer, has the final authority in deciding
if and when an injured student-athlete may return to practice and/or competition.
When a student-athlete seeks the care of another healthcare provider, the NSU Sports
Medicine Team cannot interfere with this relationship. However, a student-athlete's
private physician does not have any jurisdiction as to the participation status of the
student-athlete. Any student-athlete seen by any physician other than the Nova
Southeastern University Team Physician or by a physician on the recommendation of
Nova Southeastern University Team Physician, he/she must return to the athletic training
room for follow-up and final clearance prior to active participation status. If a student-
athlete is under the care of a private physician for an injury or illness and the physician's
treatment precludes or alters activity in intercollegiate athletics, the student-athlete must
secure, in writing, a release to reinstate the student-athlete to full participation.
If the athlete is not fully released, then they must have in writing from the student-
athlete's private physician is specific instructions in writing as to the level of
participation, what the patient may/may not do in athletics and what treatments (if any)
are allowed by NSU’s athletic training staff. If these instructions are not received, then it
is the athlete’s responsibility to receive clarification of those instructions in writing from
the athlete's private physician. However until those clarifications are made, the athlete
will be barred from all athletic participation including conditioning, practice, and games.
Additionally, the student-athlete will not be allowed treatment by the NSU athletic
training staff.
No student-athlete will be allowed to return to participation until the Nova Southeastern
University Athletic Training Staff has received written medical clearance (as described
above) from the private physician and the student-athlete is cleared by a Nova
Southeastern University Team Physician.
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Policy for Addressing Nutrition, Weight, & Body Image Issues with Student-
Athletes
1. Mission Statement:
Nova Southeastern University and the SMIT are committed to the health and
welfare of its student-athletes. We seek to establish this protocol based on
prevention, intervention, and overall wellness of NSU student-athletes. Our
mission is to identify nutritional, weight, and body image-related
concerns/attitudes that may influence each student-athletes health, wellness, and
quality of life. Additionally, we intend to provide multidisciplinary resources that
will promote optimal health and performance. Both overall physical health and
the ability to perform are essential ingredients in successful competitive athletes.
It is our goal to assess and maintain these areas in each of our student-athletes
within a healthy and supportive university environment.
2. Objectives:
Prevention of eating disorders (ED) and disordered eating (DE) through education
Increase awareness and provide education on risk factors of ED and DE among
coaches, athletic trainers and student-athletes
Establish a protocol to effectively identify, treat, and follow-up on all potential
cases
Increase visibility and approachability of a multidisciplinary team
Utilize a multidisciplinary approach for recognition and treatment, including
consultation from primary medical physician, nutritionist, psychologist, and
athletic trainer
Concussion Management
Education
Student Athletes: During baseline Impact testing, all NSU student-athletes will be
presented with educational material regarding concussions. Additionally, NSU student-
athletes will sign a statement in which they accept responsibility for reporting all injuries
and illnesses to the NSU Sports Medicine Staff, including signs and symptoms of
concussions.
o Student athlete education will also cover importance of reporting all
symptoms, increased risk for concussion after an episode, and delay in
recovery, with subsequent injury.
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Coaches: Annually, all coaches will be presented with educational material regarding
concussions.
Baseline Testing: Each student athlete will go through a round of concussion baseline testing in
order to aid the sports medicine team in early detection of a concussive episode. All entering
student athletes will undergo:
the SCAT3 form
King-Devick Eye Exam
SWAY balance assessment.
Cranial nerve exam
Sideline Assessment:
o Physician has authorized, in the standard operational protocol, all NSU ATC’s to
assess concussive symptoms and treat accordingly. the ATC will use
Sympton assessment.
Physical and neurological exam.
Cognitive assessment.
Balance exam
Clinical assessment for cervical spine trauma, skull fracture and
intracranial bleed.
Once a concussion is suspected, the ATC will remove the student-athlete from all activity
for at least that day and will contact the team physician and coach to discuss follow up.
o The ATC will give the student-athlete and the student athlete’s roommate, if
possible, standard home care instructions provided by the SCAT3 form.
If the ATC suspects that the student-athlete needs to go to the hospital, according to the
SCAT3 results, he/she will activate EMS or arrange for transportation.
o ATC will initiate the emergency action and communication plan.
Return to Play: An individualized decision made by the team physician or designee. Consultation from
the athletic trainer, athlete, neuropsychological / balance testing, and additional outside consultation as
appropriate.
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o An individualized decision which will be made by the physician with consultation by the
ATC and neurocognitive testing results. Time missed and rate of progression will depend
on the specific case
Clearance: ATC will supervise the graduated return to play protocol and give team physician continual
feedback regarding the student-athlete’s tolerance to exercise.
An athlete with signs / symptoms of concussion at rest or exertion should not continue to play
DRUG & ALCOHOL EDUCATION/TESTING POLICY
The Nova Southeastern University Athletic Department program is separate and distinct from
the NCAA Drug-Testing Program. The Department of Athletics at Nova Southeastern
University is concerned with the health, safety and welfare of our student-athletes. All student-
athletes who have completed an Initial Squad Meeting and the required NSU/NCAA paperwork
are subject to the NSU Drug Testing Program while they are current member of an NSU Team.
Substance abuse is one of the most important issues facing athletics and society today. The use
of illegal drugs, performance enhancing drugs, misuse of legal drugs, supplements, alcohol and
the inappropriate use of tobacco are completely inconsistent with the standards expected of our
student-athletes safety and well-being, and can negatively affect his or her academic and athletic
performance. It can also compromise the integrity of athletic competition and the ideals of Nova
Southeastern University.
This policy should not be construed as or serve as a contract between Nova Southeastern
University and the student-athlete. In addition, Nova Southeastern University reserves the right
to change the policy as needed and that each student-athlete will be given notice of all critical
changes.
The intent of these policies is to prevent substance use and abuse by student-athletes through
education, testing and professional guidance.
1. Education – providing student-athletes and the Department of Athletics staff with
accurate information about the problems associated with substance abuse in sport, while
promoting health and safety in sports. With this in mind, there will be mandatory drug education
for student-athletes, coaches and administrative staff throughout the academic year.
2. Testing – analyzing biological specimens to detect prohibited substances student-athletes
may introduce to their bodies and punitive consequences resulting from use;
3. Professional Referral – facilitating appropriate treatment and rehabilitation of student-
athletes.
Purpose of Testing
A vital purpose of the testing will be to screen all NSU student-athletes for drug and supplement
use. This will be done in order to deter drug abuse, to identify, treat, and rehabilitate the
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substance abusers, to remove the threat of injury they represent, and, if necessary, to remove the
offenders from the athletic environment.
Although the Department of Athletics and the NCAA recognize that drug testing is not the final
answer to substance abuse, the objective of the program is to aid in the prevention of substance
abuse, to educate the student-athlete to the dangers of substance abuse, and to remove that threat
of serious injury to the student-athlete.
Types of Drug Testing 1. Unannounced Institutional Random Testing – All student-athletes who have signed the
institutional drug testing consent form and are listed on the institutional NCAA Eligibility List
are subject to unannounced random testing held during the preseason/postseason and throughout
the calendar year. A parental consent form will be completed for each student-athlete under the
age of 18. Students listed on the NCAA Eligibility List who have exhausted their eligibility will
not be selected for testing. Drug Free Sport will randomly select student-athletes for institutional
drug testing.
2. Reasonable Suspicion Testing – A student-athlete may be subject to testing at any time
when the Director of Athletics or his/her designee determines there is individualized reasonable
suspicion to believe the participant is using or has used a prohibited substance. Such reasonable
suspicion shall be based on objective information as determined by the Director of Athletics or
by an Associate/Assistant Director of Athletics, Head Coach, Assistant Coach, Head Athletic
Trainer or Assistant Athletic Trainer, or Team Physician, and deemed reliable by the Director of
Athletics or his/her designee. Reasonable suspicion may include, but not limited to 1) observed
possession or use of substances appearing to be prohibited drugs, 2) arrest or conviction for a
criminal offense related to the possession or transfer of prohibited drugs or substances, or 3)
observed abnormal appearance, conduct or behavior reasonably interpretable as being caused by
the use of prohibited drugs or substances. Please refer to the NSU Drug Testing Reasonable
Suspicion Reporting Form for what may warrant referral for possible drug testing. The Director
of Athletics will make a determination within 48 hours of receiving the Drug Testing Reasonable
Suspicion Form. If reasonable suspicion is upheld, the Director of Athletics or his/her designee
will notify the student-athlete and the student-athlete must stay with a member of their coaching
staff, the athletics administration staff, or the sports medicine staff, until an adequate specimen is
produced. A student-athlete will also be considered for Reasonable Suspicion Testing when they
are found to be in possession and/or using such substances, he/she will be subject to the same
procedures that would be followed in the case of a positive drug test result.
3. NCAA Championship/Conference Championship Testing –The NCAA reserves the right
to test any and all participants competing at an NCAA sanctioned championship for the
substances that appear in the NCAA Banned Drug Class.
4. Follow-up Testing – After a student-athlete tests positive for a banned substance, he/she may
be tested again anytime an Athletic Department test is administered, to assure that the student-
athlete is complying with the drug free policy.
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Consent Form Conditional to participation in intercollegiate athletics at NSU, each student-athlete will be
required to sign a consent form agreeing to undergo drug and alcohol testing and authorizing
release of test results in accordance with this policy. Failure to consent to or to comply with the
requirements of the policy may result in loss of scholarship, suspension from participation or
termination of eligibility to participate in intercollegiate athletics at Nova Southeastern
University. Each student-athlete will be given a copy of the institutional policy and will be
required to participate in an informative session describing alcohol, tobacco and other drug
education and testing policies. Additionally, student-athletes will be given an opportunity to ask
any questions regarding the information contained in the policy, the testing program, or other
related issues prior to signing the drug-testing consent form. The NSU Drug Testing Consent
Form gives consent to the university from the student-athlete for only the institutional drug
testing. This form will be reviewed and signed prior to participation in any athletic event.
Signing this form enables the university to conduct all random and reasonable suspicion drug
tests on the student-athlete. Parental consent on the form is required for student-athletes under
the age of 18.
Please note: The NCAA consent form shall not be considered as consent to participate in the
institutional drug-testing program.
Procedures for Testing The Associate Director of Athletics/SWA or designee will directly notify the student-athlete that
he/she has been selected for testing within 20 hours of the test via email. The NSU Department
of Athletics has hired an outside agency, The National Center for Drug Free Sport, Inc. (The
Center), which is the premier provider of comprehensive athletic drug prevention services, to
randomly select the participants and conduct collection of the specimens. Please refer to the
attached Drug Free Sport “College/University: Urine Collection Guidelines for Clients” for
information on the specimen collection process.
Notification of Results Urine samples will be collected and sent to an independent, SAMHSA approved laboratory for
analysis. In the event of a positive drug screen, a confirmation test will be performed to verify
the results of the screening. If the second test is positive, the results will be made available to the
Medical Review Officer (MRO). A test result confirmed as positive by the laboratory does not
automatically identify the student-athlete as having engaged in prohibited drug or alcohol use.
Results will be made available to the MRO. The MRO will review the results. All positive drug
tests that are verified by the MRO and all reports of specimen adulteration or substitution shall
be reported to the Director of Athletics or his/her designee, who in turn will notify the student-
athlete’s head coach. The Director of Athletics or designee will notify the student-athlete of the
positive drug test in person and in writing. In addition, the Director of Athletics may notify the
student-athlete’s parents or guardians of the positive drug test in writing.
Appeal Process Student-athletes who test positive for a banned substance by the laboratory retained by NSU
may, within 72 hours following receipt of notice of the laboratory finding, contest the finding.
Upon the student-athlete’s request for additional testing of the sample, the Director of
Athletics/designee will formally request the laboratory retained by Nova Southeastern University
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to perform testing on specimen B. Specimen B findings will be final, subject to the results of any
appeal. If specimen B results are negative, the drug test will be considered negative.
Student-athletes who test positive under the terms of this policy will be entitled to a hearing with
the Director of Athletics or his/her designee prior to the imposition of any sanction. Requests for
such a hearing must be made within forty-eight (48) hours of notification of a positive test result.
If the forty-eight hours would end on a weekend, the request must be made by noon on the next
business day. Requests must be in writing and received by the Director of Athletics or his/her
designee.
The student-athlete may have an advocate or other representative present if the student so
desires. However, the student-athlete must present his or her own case. The meeting should take
place no more than seventy-two (72) hours after the written request is received. Either the
student-athlete or the other parties involved may request an extension of time to the Director of
Athletics, who will consider whether to grant the extension upon a showing of good cause.
These proceedings shall include an opportunity for the student-athlete to present evidence, as
well as to review the results of the drug test. The proceedings shall be confidential. The decision
by the Director of Athletics or his/her designee regarding the sanction to be imposed shall be
final.
Safe Harbor Program A Safe Harbor Program is a self-disclosure for student-athletes who admit, prior to being
selected for testing, to using a banned substance. This program can only be utilized once during
the period of time of athletic eligibility.
A student-athlete eligible for the Nova Southeastern University’s Department of Intercollegiate
Safe Harbor Program may refer himself/herself to the Program for voluntary evaluation and
counseling. A student is not eligible for the Program after he/she has been informed of an
impending drug test or after having received a positive NSU or NCAA drug test. Nova
Southeastern University will work with the student to prepare for the Safe Harbor Program
treatment plan, which may include confidential drug testing. If the student tests positive for a
banned substance upon entering the Safe Harbor Program, that positive drug test will not result
in any administrative sanction unless the student tests positive in a subsequent re-test or the
student fails to comply with treatment plan. (The team physician may suspend the student from
play or practice if medically indicated.) A student will be permitted to remain in the Safe Harbor
Program for a reasonable period of time, not to exceed 30 days, as determined by the treatment
plan. A student will not be permitted to enter the Safe Harbor Program 30 days prior to NCAA
or Conference postseason competition.
If a student-athlete tests positive for any banned substance after completing the Safe Harbor
Program or fails to comply with the Safe Harbor Program, an initial Safe Harbor positive test
will be treated as a first positive and a subsequent positive as a second positive, subject to the
sanctions explained in this policy on page.
While in compliance with the Safe Harbor Program treatment plan, the student will not be
included in the list of student eligible for random drug testing by Nova Southeastern University.
Students in the Safe Harbor Program may be selected for drug testing by the NCAA.
The Director of Athletics, the athletic training staff, the student-athlete’s head coach, and the
team physician may be informed of the student-athletes participation in the Safe Harbor
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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Program. The assistant coach(es) also may be informed at the discretion of the head coach.
Other University employees may be informed as necessary for the implementation of this policy.
A Safe Harbor Policy and Procedures Acknowledgement Form will be completed by each
student-athlete at their Initial Squad Meeting and prior to being eligible for team activities.
Causes of Loss of Eligibility
i. Failure to complete and sign the drug consent form prior to any team activities.
ii. Failure to arrive at the collection station at the designated time without justification.
iii. Failure to provide urine sample according to protocol.
iv. Leaving the collection site without providing a sample according to protocol.
v. Leaving the collection site without permission of the NSU Administrator present prior to
providing specimen or leaving without being dismissed in the appropriate manner.
vi. Attempt to alter the integrity or validity of the urine sample.
vii. All student-athletes found positive for substances banned by the NCAA and Nova
Southeastern University.
Sanctions
NCAA Drug-Testing Program:
1. A student-athlete who tests positive for an NCAA banned drug1 must be immediately declared
ineligible.
2. A student-athlete who tests positive for a banned drug other than a “street drug” shall be
charged with the loss of a minimum of one season of competition in all sports, in addition to any
seasons of competition already triggered due to participation. The student-athlete shall remain
ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending one
calendar year (i.e. 365 days) from the drug-test collection date and until the student-athlete tests
negativeand the student-athlete’s eligibility is restored by the Committee on Student-Athlete
Reinstatement. A student-athlete who tests positive for a “street drug” shall be withheld from
competition for 50 percent of a season in all sports (at least the first 50 percent of all contests or
dates of competition in the season following the positive test).
3. A student-athlete who tests positive has an opportunity to appeal the sanctions resulting from
the positive drug test.
4. A student-athlete who tests positive a second time for the use of any drug other than a “street
drug” shall lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports. A student-
athlete who tests positive a second time for a street drug shall be withheld from competition for
365 days from the date of the test and shall lose an additional year of eligibility;
5. The penalty for missing a scheduled drug test is the same as the penalty for testing positive for
the use of a banned drug other than a street drug.
6. A student-athlete found to have tampered with an NCAA drug-test sample shall be charged
with the loss of a minimum of two seasons of competition in all sports and shall remain
1 See NCAA Banned Substance List
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ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending two
calendar years (730 days) from the date of the test.
7. If a student-athlete transfers to a non-NCAA institution while ineligible because of a positive
NCAA drug test, and competes in collegiate competition within the prescribed penalty at a non-
NCAA institution, the student-athlete will be ineligible for all NCAA regular-season and
postseason competition until the student-athlete does not compete in collegiate competition for
the entirety of the prescribed penalty.
NSU Institutional Drug Testing – ZERO TOLERANCE
Zero tolerance is defined as any percentage of a banned substance detected in a drug screening
and is considered a positive drug test.
1. First Positive Drug Test
a. Loss of 20 % of your championship season of competition rounded to the nearest whole
number. This would include scrimmages, post-season play, special trips or foreign tours.
b. 30 hours of community service hours to begin within 30 days of notification by the
Director of Athletics of the positive drug test, at a site approved by the Director of Athletics or
designee. SA is responsible to prearrange and receive approval for the community service from
the Director of Athletics or Designee.
c. Recommended counseling, available on-campus through the Henderson Center.
Information will be provided at the in-person notification meeting about this recommended
resource.
d. Any additional tests that were required due to a previous positive test or suspected
manipulation of the specimen will be the financial responsibility of the student-athlete.
2. Second Positive Drug Test
a. Immediate forfeiture of athletic scholarship.
b. Loss of remaining eligibility at NSU.
c. Dismissal from NSU’s Athletic Program.
3. No-Show Penalty
a. If a selected student-athlete does not show up for his/her drug test, it will qualify as a
positive test, regardless of the reason for the no-show.
NCAA Banned Drugs
Please refer to the attached NCAA Banned Drugs List and examples of NCAA Banned
Substances in each drug class. Note: There is no complete list of banned substances. Check the
Drug Free Resource Axis for questions about supplements, medications and banned drugs. To
access the AXIS, call toll-free 1-877-202-0769 or go to www.drugfreesport.com/Rec, select
NCAA and insert password ncaa2.
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The NCAA Sport Science Institute (SSI) is the organization’s new national center for excellence
for the study and improvement of health and safety in athletics. The SSI is devoted to research,
education, collaboration, policy development, and best practice guidelines that will benefit the
safety, excellence and wellness of the intercollegiate student-athlete. The NCAA SSI can be
found at www.ncaa.org/health-and-safety
Dietary Supplements
It is to be noted that the Nova Southeastern University Athletics Department does not condone
the use of dietary supplements. The NCAA stance on dietary supplements is that student-athletes
should be advised that the most effective and safest way to enhance their performance is to avoid
dietary/nutritional supplement products and rely on a combination of a healthy diet, appropriate
conditioning, rest and Axisovery, and avoiding substance abuse.
Student-athletes should always bring all supplement products to the designated athletics staff
before using, and then checking all supplements through the Resource Exchange Center, AXIS,
staffed by the National Center for Drug Free Sport, the NCAA third party drug testing
administrator. The AXIS is the only authoritative resource for questions related to whether listed
ingredients on nutritional supplement product labels or in medications contain NCAA banned
substances.
Products labeled as dietary supplements sold over the counter, in print advertisements and
through the internet are under-regulated by the U.S. FDA. Dietary supplements are at risk of
contamination or may include ingredients that are banned under your drug testing policy.
Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility using dietary supplements. Any
product containing dietary supplement ingredients is taken at the student-athlete’s own risk.
To access the AXIS, call toll free 1-877-202-0769 or go to www.drugfreesport.com/rec, select
NCAA, and insert password ncaa2. Right on the home page you can select “Ask about Dietary
Supplements” or go to the “Prescription/Over-the-Counter Drug Search”. It’s as easy as 1, 2, or
3.
By signing the Policy Consent Form, the student-athlete:
1. Acknowledges that he/she understands that they are to disclose all dietary supplements
used to the Director of Sport Performance;
2. Acknowledges the aforementioned policies and statements, and fully accepts the
detrimental and possibly permanent defects caused by the use of dietary supplements;
3. Fully accepts that they have been made aware of the Nova Southeastern University and
the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) policies with regard to the use of
dietary supplements;
Accepts any and all liability if they have in the past used, continue to use, and/or use at any time
in the future, dietary supplements in any form; and releases the Nova Southeastern University, its
agents, and all personnel of any and all responsibility and liability related to such use.
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Nova Southeastern University
Student-Athlete Dietary Supplement Disclosure & Review Form
I, _____________________________________ am taking or intend to take the following dietary Student-Athlete Name
supplements. I acknowledge the risk of losing my eligibility to participate in intercollegiate
athletics if I test positive for an NCAA or Nova Southeastern University banned substance that
may be found in any substance that I take, regardless of the reason or purpose for taking such
supplements.
I acknowledge and understand that the labeling on these products can be misleading and
inaccurate, and that sales personnel are neither motivated nor qualified to accurately certify that
these products contain no banned substances. “Healthy” or “naturally occurring” are terms often
used to market sales of dietary supplements, but do not necessarily mean they are safe.
Before taking or using any dietary supplement, I am responsible for ensuring the product does
not contain any banned substance. By making this disclosure, I am requesting that these products
and their ingredients by reviewed by Nova Southeastern University’s Director of Sports
Performance and/or the registered dietician for the purposes of determining whether they are
medically safe to use and do not contain banned substances. I understand that I should not take or
use these products until their usage has been reviewed by Nova Southeastern University’s sports
medicine staff.
Brand Name: Listed Ingredients: (Director of Sport Performance and/or registered dietician
to review, circle banned substances and notify
student-athlete.)
1. _________________________________ _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
2. _________________________________ _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
3. _________________________________ _________________________
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
4. _________________________________ _________________________
_________________________
Signatures:
______________________________________ ________________________________ Student-Athlete Signature Date NSU Staff Signature Date
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SPORTS PERFORMANCE A. Introduction
Hours: Monday – Friday (Hours are determined by the Strength Coach & the Sports Coach)
Hours will be posted….
NSU Strength & Conditioning Complex
Nova Southeastern University provides its athletes with a 5,200 square foot state of the art strength
training facility which houses 17 varsity sports and is supervised by the NSU Strength and Conditioning
Department.
Mission Statement
It is our mission to emphasize hard work rather than lifting a lot of weight. We stress the importance of
proper lifting technique and muscular balance.
We strive to foster a training environment that will allow student athletes to see the importance of hard
work, attention to detail, mental toughness, and the ability to push past pre-conceived limits.
Through hard work, focus, and a scientifically-based training routine, we believe that NSU athletes will
maximize their potential and surpass their highest goals.
Our goal is to provide NSU athletes with a periodized training plan that will maximize athletic potential
while reducing the risk of sports-related injury.
In all our endeavors, we are committed to the principles of ethical conduct, integrity, and excellence, in
accordance with all NSU, Sunshine State Conference, and NCAA rules and regulations.
Program Philosophy
It is the philosophy of the Strength and Conditioning department to provide student-athletes with a
program that is…
• Sport-Specific
• Scientifically based and designed
• Progressive
• Safe and effective
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Strength & Conditioning Objectives
1. Decrease the risk of athletic and over-use injuries
2. Increase physical strength and power
3. Increase physical endurance
4. Assess and improve static and functional flexibility
5. Increase work ethic, attitude, and leadership characteristics in our student- athletes
6. Improve/Maintain communication between strength staff, sports medicine staff, and
sport coaches.
Policies and Procedures
1. Workout times are established between the Strength Coach and the Sport Coach. All team
members are expected to attend the workout session at the scheduled time. All absences or
tardiness must be authorized prior to the scheduled session. Authorization is required from
both the Sport Coach and the Strength Coach.
2. All student athletes will complete the workout as prescribed by the Strength Coach. Any
modifications to the workout must be authorized by the Strength Coach via communication
with the Athletic Trainer.
3. It is the student athlete’s responsibility to notify the Athletic Trainer of any injuries or
discomfort that they are feeling. The Athletic Trainer will then notify the Strength Coach. This is
the ONLY procedure for modifications to the training plan.
4. If there is an injury in the weight room, immediately notify the Strength Coach. Each student
athlete must then be available to assist the Strength Coach with the Emergency Procedure.
The Emergency Procedure is posted next to the AED outside of the main weight room
entrance. See Emergency Action Plan below for detailed procedure.
5. Clean towels are available to use in the Strength & Conditioning Complex. Each student athlete is
responsible to wipe down the equipment after each use. Towels should be used for ALL
exercises done on the floor.
6. All student athletes are required to follow the “Shark Code of Conduct” that follows. Any
violations of this Code, will result in a demerit. Each demerit will require some form of
disciplinary action determined by the Strength Coach. A total of 3 demerits, will result in a
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS
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suspension from the Strength & Conditioning Complex for a period of time to be determined
by the Strength Coach and the Sport Coach.
7. Team apparel must be worn, proper shoes required for all lifting sessions.
8. Coaches are permitted to use the Strength & Conditioning Complex during their team’s
scheduled lifting time. It is imperative that the coach not be a distraction to the goals and
objectives that the strength staff has established for that session.
9. Notify a strength staff member of any equipment malfunction or damage.
10. Recruit visits must be coordinated through the strength & conditioning staff prior to the arrival
of the recruit.
11. No one is permitted to adjust the sound system. Notify the strength & conditioning staff of any
requests.
12. The use of supplements is NOT permitted in the Strength & Conditioning Complex. All
supplements must be approved by the Sports Medicine Team. It is the responsibility of the
student athlete to get EVERY supplement approved BEFORE using it– IGNORANCE is not
an EXCUSE.
13. Alumni and/or former student-athletes must get approval from the Director of Athletics to
enter the Strength & Conditioning Complex.
Emergency Action Procedures
Specific Procedures: The following procedures should be enacted in the event of an emergency at the
NSU Athletic Building’s Strength & Conditioning Complex:
First aid and emergency action should be coordinated by the most highly qualified staff member
present.
1. Direction of EMS to the scene in conjunction with NOVALERT.
2. Designate an individual to stand on SW 36th Street to direct EMS into the sign: “Central Services
and Sports Medicine Clinic Parking”
3. Designate an individual or Novalert to open the gate-arm to the ABS parking lot.
4. EMS should be directed to the emergency exits to the ASB weight room, either on the west or
east side of the weight room.
5. As soon as possible, the Head Strength & Conditioning Coach should report the details of the
incident to the respective athletic trainer or Team Physician for documentation.
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Venue Directions: The following directions should be given to EMS in the event of an emergency at the
NSU Strength & Conditioning Complex:
1. University Drive to SW 36th Street.
2. Turn east on SW 36th street.
3. Proceed East (past SW 75th Ave.) and turn left (north) at the sign for Central Services and Sports
Medicine Parking.
4. Proceed north, through gate arms (Novalert should open for access) and make 1st left.
5. Proceed north to the emergency exits on either the west and east side of the ASB weight room.
Shark Code of Conduct for Weight Room
1. Only Current and Former NSU student-athletes are permitted
2. Only team issued apparel can be worn
3. Be on time, focused and ready to work at your scheduled session – BE EARLY
4. The Following will be strictly enforced….
No Gum or Candy
No Cell Phones
No Head phones
No Hats or Bandanas
No Jewelry or Piercings
No Sitting
No Yawning
No Horse Play
No Unnecessary Socializing
5. No food or Drink allowed in the weight room
6. Respect the equipment – do not slam plates, bars, etc. on the floor
7. Do not place Dumbbells on top of other Dumbbells in the rack
8. Do not leave Dumbbells on the floor, replace them on the rack after each set
9. Any items left in the facility will be collected in “Lost and Found” for 1 week, and then
they will be donated to the homeless shelter.
10. Wipe down the equipment when done, replace all equipment when done.
11. Do not lean plates against equipment or columns
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12. No unsupervised training
13. Do not adjust the sound system – Music is a Privilege Not a Right
14. Do not leave valuables in the coaches’ offices – Leave Them At Home
15. NO PROFANITY – you are educated enough to express yourself without cursing
16. BE RESPECTFUL to all coaches, athletic trainers, and especially to each other
17. TAKE PRIDE in the weight room
18. BE PROUD of your hard work
19. ATTITUDE and EFFORT are ALWAYS under your control
20. NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE
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SPORT ___________________
2016 - 2017
Student-Athlete Agreement Form (to be signed by all student-athletes prior to practice/competition)
I have attended an Initial Squad Meeting where the NSU Athletics Department policies &
procedures were fully explained to me. I understand them and had an opportunity to ask
questions. I acknowledge further information is available in the Student-Athlete Handbook
online at: www.nsusharks.com. It is my responsibility to review and understand the contents of
the NSU Student-Athlete Handbook as they pertain to me throughout my entire time as an NSU
student-athlete.
_______________________________________________ ________________________ Full Name (PRINT) Year of First Enrollment at NSU
________________________________________________ ________________________ Student-Athlete Signature Date
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ATTACHMENT
2016-17 NCAA Banned Drugs
It is your responsibility to check with the appropriate or designated athletics staff
before using any substance.
The NCAA Bans the Following Classes of Drugs:
1. Stimulants;
2. Anabolic Agents; 3. Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only);
4. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents;
5. Street Drugs;
6. Peptide Hormones and Analogues;
7. Anti-estrogens; and
8. 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:
1. Blood doping;
2. Gene doping;
3. Local anesthetics (under some conditions);
4. Manipulation of urine samples; and
5. Beta-2 Agonists permitted only by prescription and inhalation.
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NCAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning:
Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product with
the appropriate or designated athletics department staff. There are no NCAA approved
supplement products.
1. Dietary supplements, including vitamins and minerals, are not well regulated and may
cause a positive drug test result.
2. Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility from using dietary
supplements.
3. Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs not listed on the label.
4. Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk.
Check with your athletics department staff prior to using a supplement.
Examples of NCAA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class
Note to Student-Athletes: There is NO complete list of banned substances.
Do not rely on this list to rule out any label ingredient.
1. Stimulants: Amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine;
methamphetamine (DMAA); methylphenidate (Ritalin); synephrine (bitter orange);
methylhexaneamine, "bath salts" (mephedrone); octopamne; DMBA; phenethylamines
(PEAs); etc. Exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned.
2. 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.
3. Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only): Alcohol; atenolol; metoprolol;
nadolol; pindolol; propranolol; timolol; etc.
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4. Diuretics (water pills) and Other Masking Agents: Bumetanide; chlorothiazide;
furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene;
trichlormethiazide; etc.
5. Street Drugs: Heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); synthetic cannabinoids
(e.g., spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073).
6. Peptide Hormones and Analogues: Growth hormone (hGH); human chorionic
gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); IGF-1; etc.
7. Anti-Estrogens: Anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; ATD; clomiphene; SERMS
(nolvadex); Arimidex; clomid; evista; fulvestrant; aromatase inhibitors (Androst-3, 5-
dien-7, 17-dione), etc.
8. Beta-2 Agonists: Bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; higenamine;
norcoclaurine; etc.
Additional examples of banned drugs can be found at www.ncaa.org/drugtesting.
Any substance that is chemically related to the class,
even if it is not listed as an example, is also banned!
Information about ingredients in medications and nutritional/dietary supplements can be
obtained by contacting the Resource Exchange Center (REC) at 877-202-0769 or
www.drugfreesport.com/rec password: ncaa1, ncaa2 or ncaa3.
It is your responsibility to check with the appropriate or designated
athletics staff before using any substance.
intra.ncaa.org/sites /ama/OperationsTeam/6.TechnologyTeam/07.ComplianceForms/2016-17/DivisionI/2016-17BannedDrugsEducationalDocument/LRZ_kh_dks_053116
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DISCLAIMER: THE SUMMARY OF NCAA REGULATIONS DOES NOT INCLUDE
ALL NCAA DIVISION II BYLAWS. FOR A COMPLETE LIST, GO TO
WWW.NCAA.ORG. YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR KNOWING AND
UNDERSTANDING THE APPLICATION OF ALL BYLAWS RELATED TO YOUR
ELIGIBILITY TO COMPETE. CONTACT YOUR INSTITUTION’S COMPLIANCE
OFFICE OR THE NCAA IF YOU HAVE QUESTIONS.
TO: STUDENT-ATHLETE.
This summary of NCAA regulations contains information about your eligibility to compete in
intercollegiate athletics.
This summary has two parts:
1. Part I is for all student-athletes.
2. Part II is for new student-athletes only (those signing the Student-Athlete Statement for the
first time).
If you have questions, ask your director of athletics (or his or her official designee) or refer to the
2016-17 NCAA Division II Manual. The references in brackets after each summarized
regulation show you where to find the regulation in the Division II Manual.
Part I: For All Student-Athletes.
This part of the summary discusses ethical conduct, amateurism, financial aid, academic
standards and other regulations concerning your eligibility for intercollegiate competition.
Academic Year : 201 6 - 1 7
Summary of NCAA Regulations NCAA - Division II
For: Student - athletes.
Purpose: To summarize NCAA regulations regarding eligibility of student - a thletes to compete.
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1. Ethical Conduct – All Sports.
a. You must act with honesty and sportsmanship at all times so that you represent
the honor and dignity of fair play and the generally recognized high standards
associated with wholesome competitive sports. [NCAA Bylaw 10.01.1]
b. You have engaged in unethical conduct if you refuse to furnish information
relevant to an investigation of a possible violation of an NCAA regulation when
requested to do so by the NCAA or your institution. [Bylaw 10.1-(a)]
c. You are not eligible to compete if you knowingly provide information to
individuals involved in organized gambling activities concerning intercollegiate
athletics competition; solicit a bet on any intercollegiate team; accept a bet on any
team representing the institution or solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate
competition for any item (e.g., cash, shirt, dinner) that has tangible value. [Bylaw
10.3]
d. You are not eligible to compete if you knowingly participate in any gambling
activity that involves intercollegiate or professional athletics through a
bookmaker, a parlay card or any other method employed by organized gambling.
[Bylaw 10.3]
e. You are not eligible to compete if you have shown dishonesty in evading or
violating NCAA regulations. [Bylaws 10.1 and 14.01.3.3]
2. Amateurism - All Sports.
a. You are not eligible for participation in a sport if after initial full-time collegiate
enrollment you have ever:
(1) Taken pay, or the promise of pay, for competing in that sport [Bylaws
12.1.4-(a) and 12.1.4-(b);
(2) Agreed (orally or in writing) to compete in professional athletics in that
sport [Bylaw 12.1.4-(e)];
(3) Played on any professional athletics team as defined by the NCAA in that
sport [Bylaws 12.1.4-(g) and 12.2.3.2]; or
(4) Used your athletics skill for pay in any form in that sport. [Bylaw 12.1.4]
b. You are not eligible in a sport if you ever have accepted money, transportation or
other benefits from an agent, or agreed to have an agent market your athletics
ability or reputation in that sport. [Bylaw 12.3]
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c. You are not eligible in any sport if, after you become a student-athlete, you
accept any pay for promoting a commercial product or service, or allowed your
name or picture to be used for promoting a commercial product or service.
[Bylaw 12.5.2]
d. You are not eligible in any sport if, because of your athletics ability, you were
paid for work you did not perform, were paid at a rate higher than the going rate,
or were paid for the value an employer placed on your reputation, fame or
personal following. [Bylaw
12.4]
3. Seasons of Competition – All Sports.
The following rules are applicable to all Division II student-athletes first entering a
collegiate institution on or after August 1, 2010:
If you did not enroll in a collegiate institution as a full-time student in the regular
academic term that begins immediately after a one-year time period (the next opportunity
to enroll after the one calendar-year period has elapsed) following high school
graduation, you have used one season of intercollegiate competition for each consecutive
12-month period after the one-year time period and before initial full-time collegiate
enrollment in which you participated in organized competition. [Bylaws 14.2.4.2 and
14.2.4.2.1.2]
a. Activities constituting use of a season:
(1) Any competition that is scheduled in advance;
(2) Any competition in which official score is kept;
(3) Any competition in which individual or team standings or statistics are
maintained;
(4) Any competition in which an official timer or game officials are used;
(5) Any competition in which admission is charged;
(6) Any competition in which teams are regularly formed or team rosters are
predetermined;
(7) Any competition in which team uniforms are used;
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(8) Any competition in which an individual or team is privately or
commercially sponsored; or
(9) Any competition that is either directly or indirectly sponsored, promoted
or administered by an individual, an organization or any other agency.
[Bylaw
14.2.4.2.1.2]
b. If you discontinued high school enrollment before graduation and participated in
any of the activities constituting use of a season, you have used one season of
intercollegiate competition for each consecutive 12-month period after a one-year
time period (the next opportunity to enroll after one calendar year has elapsed)
following the discontinued enrollment and before initial full-time collegiate
enrollment. [Bylaw 14.2.4.2.1.1.3]
c. If you have used a season(s) of competition according to the regulations above,
you must fulfill an academic year in residence at any member institution prior to
being eligible to represent your institution in that specific sport in intercollegiate
competition. [Bylaw
14.2.4.2.1.3]
4. Financial Aid - All Sports.
a. You are not eligible if you receive financial aid other than the financial aid that
your institution distributes. However, it is permissible to receive:
(1) Money from anyone on whom you are naturally or legally dependent;
(2) Financial aid that has been awarded to you on a basis other than athletics
ability;
(3) Financial aid from an entity outside your institution that meets the
requirements specified in the Division II Manual; [Bylaw 15.01.3] or
(4) On- or off-campus employment earnings, provided the compensation does
not include remuneration for value that the student-athlete may have for
the employer because of publicity, reputation, fame or personal following;
the student-athlete is compensated only for work actually performed; and
the student-athlete is compensated at a rate commensurate with the going
rate in that locality for similar services. [Bylaw 15.2.3]
b. You must report to your institution any financial aid that you receive from a
source other than your institution. However, you do not need to report financial
aid received from anyone on whom you are naturally or legally dependent.
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5. Academic Standards - All sports.
a. Eligibility for Competition.
(1) To be eligible to compete, you must:
(a) Have been admitted as a regularly enrolled, degree-seeking
student according to the published entrance requirements of your
institution;
(b) Be in good academic standing according to the standards of your
institution; and
(c) Be enrolled in at least a minimum full-time baccalaureate degree
program (not less than 12 semester or quarter hours) and maintain
satisfactory progress toward that degree, be enrolled in a full-time
graduate or professional degree program (as defined by the
institution for all graduate students in that program) or be enrolled
and seeking a second baccalaureate degree at your institution.
[Bylaws 14.01.2, 14.1.7 and 14.1.8]
(2) If you are enrolled in less than a full-time program, you are eligible to
compete only if you are enrolled in the last term of your degree program
and are carrying credits necessary to finish your degree. [Bylaw
14.1.7.1.7.3]
(3) You are eligible to compete during the official vacation period
immediately before initial enrollment, provided you have been accepted
by your institution for enrollment in a regular, full-time program of
studies at the time of your initial participation, you are no longer enrolled
in your previous educational institution
and you are eligible under all institutional and NCAA requirements.
[Bylaw
14.1.7.1.7.1]
(4) You are eligible to compete between terms if you are continuing
enrollment, provided you have been registered for the required minimum
full-time load at the conclusion of the term immediately preceding the
date of competition, or if you are either continuing enrollment or
beginning enrollment, provided you have been accepted for enrollment as
a regular full-time student for the regular term immediately following the
date of competition. [Bylaw 14.1.7.1.7.2]
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b. Eligibility for Practice.
(1) You are eligible to practice if you are enrolled in a minimum full-time
program of studies leading to a baccalaureate or equivalent degree as
defined by the regulations of the certifying institution, which shall not be
less than 12 semester or quarter hours, regardless of the institution’s
definition of a minimum full-time program of studies. [Bylaw 14.1.7.1]
(2) You are eligible to practice during the official vacation period
immediately preceding initial enrollment provided you have been
accepted by your institution for enrollment in a regular, full-time program
of studies at the time of your initial participation, you no longer are
enrolled in your previous educational institution, and you are eligible
under all institutional and NCAA requirements. [Bylaw
14.1.7.1.7.1]
(3) You also are eligible to practice if you are enrolled in the final semester
or quarter of a baccalaureate program while enrolled in less than a
minimum fulltime program of studies and your institution certifies that
you are carrying (for credit) the courses necessary to complete the degree
requirements, as determined by the faculty of the institution. [Bylaw
14.1.7.1.7.3]
c. Continuing Eligibility - All Sports.
(1) In order to be eligible for competition at the end of each academic term, a
student-athlete must successfully complete nine semester or eight-quarter
hours of academic credit the preceding regular academic term in which
the studentathlete has been enrolled full time at any collegiate institution.
[Bylaw 14.4.3.2]
(2) If you have transferred to your current institution midyear, or you have
completed one academic year in residence at your current institution or
used one season of eligibility in a sport at your current institution, your
eligibility shall be determined by your academic record in existence at the
beginning of the fall term or at the beginning of any other regular term of
that academic year and you must satisfy the following requirements for
academic progress to be eligible to compete.
(a) You must earn 24-semester or 36-quarter hours of academic
credit during any year in which you are enrolled full time in at
least one academic term. You may satisfy this requirement based
on earning:
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i. 24-semester or 36-quarter hours since the beginning of the
previous fall term;
ii. 24-semester or 36-quarter hours since the beginning of the
certifying institution’s preceding regular two semesters or
three quarters; or
iii. 48-semester or 72-quarter hours during the first two years
of collegiate enrollment (the certifying institution's first
four semesters or six quarters following your initial full-
time enrollment in a collegiate institution). [Bylaw
14.4.3.4]
(b) You must have completed 18-semester or 27-quarter hours since
the beginning of the previous fall term or since the beginning of
the certifying institution's preceding regular two semesters or three
quarters. Credit hours earned in the period after the regular
academic year at the institution (e.g., hours earned in summer
school) shall not be used to satisfy the academic credit-hour
requirements of this regulation. [Bylaw
14.4.3.34]
(c) You must achieve a minimum cumulative grade-point average of
2.000 prior to the beginning of each fall term. [Bylaw 14.4.3.5]
(d) You must meet the minimum grade-point average at the certifying
institution based on the method of calculation used by the
institution for calculating grade-point averages for all students,
and the calculation shall only include coursework normally
counted by the institution in calculating the grade-point average
for graduation. [Bylaw 14.4.3.5.3]
(e) You must choose a major that leads to a specific baccalaureate
degree by the beginning of your third year of enrollment. (This
includes transfer students who have not completed an academic
year in residence yet or used one season of eligibility in a sport at
their current institution.) [Bylaw 14.4.3.6]
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d. Freshmen.
(1) You are referred to as a qualifier and are eligible to practice and
compete in your sport and to receive financial aid (institutional and
athletically related) during your first academic year under Bylaw
14.02.10, if you:
(a) Graduate from high school;
(b) Attain a minimum high school grade-point average of 2.000 in 16
corecurriculum courses as specified in Bylaw 14.3.1.1; and
(c) Achieve the required sum ACT (68) or SAT (820) score as
specified in Bylaw 14.3.1.1.
(2) You are referred to as a partial qualifier and are eligible to receive
institutional and athletically related financial aid if you fail to meet the
criteria for a qualifier, but at the time of graduation from high school you
attain a minimum high school grade-point average of 2.000 in 16 core-
curriculum courses as specified in Bylaw 14.3.1.1 or achieve the required
sum ACT (68) or SAT (820) score. You may not compete in your sport
during your first academic year in residence; however, you may practice
on campus or at your institution’s regular practice facility. [Bylaws
14.02.10, 14.3.1.1 and 14.3.2.1]
(3) You are referred to as a nonqualifier if you fail to meet the criteria above
for qualifiers or partial qualifiers. Although a nonqualifier is ineligible for
practice and competition during the first academic year in residence, a
nonqualifier may receive nonathletics institutional aid. [Bylaws
14.02.10.3 and 14.3.2.2.1]
(4) If you are a nonqualifier or partial qualifier, you will have four seasons of
eligibility after your first academic year in residence. However, student-
athletes who have exhausted three seasons of competition in Division I are
not eligible for further seasons of competition in Division II. [Bylaw
14.3.3]
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6. Other Regulations Concerning Eligibility - All Sports.
a. You are not eligible to participate in more than four seasons of intercollegiate
competition in any one sport. [Bylaw 14.2]
b. You are not eligible after the first 10 semesters or 15 quarters in which you were
enrolled at a collegiate institution in at least a minimum full-time program of
studies as determined by the institution, except for extensions that have been
approved in accordance with NCAA legislation. [Bylaws 14.2.2 and 14.2.2.3]
c. You are eligible for championships that occur within 60 days of the date you
complete the requirements for your degree. [Bylaws 14.1.7.1.7.3.1 and 14.1.8.3]
7. All Sports Other Than Basketball.
You are not eligible in your sport for the rest of your season if, after enrollment
in college and during any year in which you were a member of an intercollegiate
team, you competed as a member of any outside team in any noncollegiate,
amateur competition in the sport during the playing season. Competing in the
Olympic Games tryouts and competition, and other specified national and
international competition is permitted.
[Bylaws 14.7.1, 14.7.3 and 14.7.5]
8. Basketball Only.
a. You are not eligible if, after you become a student-athlete, you participate in any
organized basketball competition except while representing the institution in
intercollegiate competition. Competing in the Olympic Games tryouts and
competition, and other specified national and international competition is
permitted. [Bylaws 14.7.2,
14.7.4 and 14.7.5]
b. There are no restrictions on the participation of Division II student-athletes in
outside basketball competition during the summer. [Bylaw 14.7.5.2-(a)]
9. Transfer Students Only.
a. You are a transfer student if:
(1) The registrar or admissions officer from your former institution certified
that you officially were registered and enrolled at that institution in any
term in a minimum full-time load and you attended a class or classes
while enrolled as a full-time student; or
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(2) The director of athletics from your former institution certified that you
reported for the regular squad practice that any staff member of the
athletics department of your former institution announced before the
beginning of any term. [Bylaw
14.5.2]
b. If you are a transfer student from a four-year institution, you are not eligible
during your first academic year in residence unless you meet the provisions of
one of the exceptions specified in Bylaw 14.5.5.3 or one of the waivers specified
in Bylaw 14.8.1.
c. If you are a transfer student from a two-year institution, you are not eligible
during your first academic year in residence at your new institution unless you
meet the academic and residence requirements specified in Bylaw 14.5.4 or the
exceptions specified in Bylaw 14.5.4.6.
d. If you transferred from a four-year college to a two-year college and then to your
new institution, you are not eligible during your first academic year in residence
at your new institution unless you meet the requirements specified in Bylaw
14.5.4.1 or 14.5.4.3 or the exceptions specified in Bylaw 14.5.4.6.
10. Drugs - All Sports.
a. A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests
positive for use of a substance in a banned drug class, as set forth in Bylaw
31.2.3.1, shall be declared ineligible for further participation in postseason and
regular-season competition in accordance with the ineligibility provisions of
Bylaw 18.4.5.
b. A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests
positive for use of a substance in a banned drug class other than "street drugs" (in
accordance with the testing methods authorized by the NCAA Board of
Governors), shall be charged with the loss of one season of competition in all
sports, in addition to the use of a season, pursuant to Bylaw 14.2.4.1, if he or she
has participated in intercollegiate competition during the same academic year.
The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regularseason and postseason
competition during the time period ending one calendar year (i.e., 365 days) after
the collection of the student-athlete's positive drug test specimen and until he or
she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the
Board of Governors). [Bylaw 18.4.1.5.1]
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c. A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests
positive for use of a substance in the banned drug class "street drugs" (in
accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors) shall
be charged with the loss of competition during 50 percent of a season of
competition in all sports (i.e., 50 percent of all contests or dates of competition in
the season following the positive test). The student-athlete shall remain ineligible
until the prescribed penalty is fulfilled and he or she tests negative (in accordance
with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). [Bylaw
18.4.1.5.2]
d. A policy adopted by the Board of Governors establishes that the penalty for
missing a scheduled drug test is the same as the penalty for testing positive for
the use of a banned drug other than a "street drug. You will remain ineligible
until you retest negative. [Bylaws 18.4.1.5.3 and 18.4.1.5.3.1]
11. Non-NCAA Athletics Organization Positive Drug Test - All Sports.
a. If you test positive by a sport’s governing body that has adaopted the WADA
code, you must notify your director of athletics regarding the positive drug test.
You also must permit the NCAA to test you for the banned drugs listed in Bylaw
31.2.3.1.
b. If the result of the NCAA drug test is positive, you will lose all remaining
eligibility during the season in which you tested positive and an additional season
of competition.
c. The director of athletics must notify the NCAA chief medical officer in writing
regarding a student-athlete’s disclosure of a previous positive drug test
administered by any other athletics organization.
d. If the student-athlete transfers to a non-NCAA institution while ineligible and
competes in intercollegiate competition during the prescribed period of
ineligibility at a non-NCAA institution, the student-athlete will be ineligible for
all NCAA regular-season and postseason competition until the student-athlete
does not compete in collegiate competition for the entirety of the prescribed
penalty. Furthermore, the student-athlete must retest negative (in accordance with
the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). [Bylaw 18.4.1.5.4]
e. The list is subject to change and the institution and student-athlete shall be held
accountable for all banned drug classes on the current list. The list is located on
the NCAA website (www.ncaa.org) or may be obtained from the NCAA Sport
Science
Institute staff.
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Part II: For New Student-Athletes Only.
This part of the summary contains information about your recruitment, which is governed by
Bylaw 13 of the Division II Manual.
• Recruitment.
a. Offers - All Sports.
(1) You are not eligible if, before you enrolled at your
institution, any staff member of your institution or any
other representative of your institution’s athletics interests
provided or offered to you, your relatives or your friends
any financial aid or other benefits that NCAA legislation
does not permit. [Bylaw 13.2.1]
(2) An institution’s staff member or any representative of its
athletics interests shall not be involved, directly or
indirectly, in making arrangements for or giving or offering
to give any financial aid or other benefits to the prospect or
the prospect’s relatives or friends, other than expressly
permitted by NCAA regulations. Receipt of a benefit by
prospective student-athletes or their relatives or friends is
not a violation of NCAA legislation if it is demonstrated
that the same benefit is generally available to the
institution's prospective students or their relatives or
friends or to a particular segment of the student body (e.g.,
international students, minority students) determined on a
basis unrelated to athletics ability. For violations of this
bylaw in which the value of the offer or inducement is
$100 or less, the eligibility of the individual (i.e.,
prospective or enrolled student-athlete) shall not be
affected conditioned on the individual repaying the value
of the benefit to a charity of his or her choice. The
individual, however, shall remain ineligible from the time
the institution has knowledge of the receipt of the
impermissible benefit until the individual repays the
benefit. Violations of this bylaw remain institutional
violations per NCAA Constitution 2.8.1, and
documentation of the individual’s repayment shall be
forwarded to the enforcement staff. [Bylaw 13.2.1]
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b. Publicity - All Sports.
(1) You are not eligible if, before you enrolled at your
institution, your institution publicized any visit that you
made to its campus. [Bylaw 13.10.4]
(2) You are not eligible if, before you enrolled at your
institution, you appeared on a radio or television program
that involved a coach or another member of the staff of the
athletics department at your institution. [Bylaw 13.10.3]
c. Source of Funds - All Sports.
• You are not eligible if any organization or group of people outside your
institution spent money recruiting you to attend your institution, including
entertaining, giving gifts or services and providing transportation to you
or your relatives or friends unless the coach is serving in his or her
capacity as a local sports club coach. [Bylaw 13.14.4]
d. Sports Camps.
You are not eligible if, before you enrolled at your institution, the
institution, members of its staff or a representative of its athletics interests
employed, or gave you free or reduced admission privileges to attend its
camp or clinic after you started classes for the ninth grade. [Bylaw
13.12.1.5.1]
e. Visits, Transportation and Entertainment - All Sports.
(1) You are not eligible under Bylaws 13.5, 13.6 or 13.7 if, before you
enrolled at your institution, any of the following happened to you:
(a) Your institution paid more than the actual round-trip cost by direct
route between your home and the campus when you made your
one expensepaid visit; or
(b) Your institution entertained you, your parents (or legal guardians)
or your spouse excessively during your expense-paid visit or
entertained your friends or other relatives at any site.2
2 Unless the value of the benefit was $100 or less.
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(2) A prospect may not be provided an expense-paid visit earlier than June 15
immediately preceding the prospective student-athlete's junior year in
high school. Violations of this bylaw shall be considered institutional
violations per Constitution 2.8.1; however, such violations shall not affect
the prospective student-athlete’s eligibility. [Bylaw 13.6.1.2]
(3) A member institution may not provide an expense-paid visit to a high
school or preparatory school prospect until he or she: (a) presents the
institution with a current high school or college-preparatory school
transcript (official or unofficial); (b) registers with the NCAA Eligibility
Center; and (c) is placed on the institution’s Institutional Request List
with the Eligibility Center. [Bylaw
13.6.2]
(4) You are not eligible if, at any time that you were visiting your
institution’s campus at your own expense, your institution paid for
anything more than the following:
(a) During an unofficial visit, the institution may not pay any
expenses or provide any entertainment except a maximum of five
complimentary admissions to a campus athletics event in which
the institution’s intercollegiate team practices or competes. Such
complimentary admissions are for the exclusive use of the
prospect and those persons accompanying the prospect on the visit
and must be issued on an individual-game basis. Providing
seating during the conduct of the event (including intermission)
for the prospect or those persons accompanying the prospect in the
facility’s press box, special seating box(es) or bench area is
specifically prohibited. For violations of this bylaw in which the
individual receives an excessive number of complimentary
admissions, and the value of the excessive admissions is $100 or
less, the eligibility of the individual (i.e., prospective or enrolled
student-athlete) shall not be affected conditioned on the individual
repaying the value of the benefit to a charity of his or her choice.
The individual, however, shall remain ineligible from the time the
institution has knowledge of the receipt of the impermissible
benefit until the individual repays the benefit. Violations of this
bylaw remain institutional violations per Constitution 2.8.1, and
documentation of the individual’s repayment shall be forwarded to
the enforcement staff. [Bylaw 13.7.2.1]
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(b) During any unofficial recruiting visit, the institution may provide
the prospect with transportation to view practice and competition
sites in the prospect’s sport and other institutional facilities and to
attend an institution’s home athletics contest (on or off-campus).
An institutional staff member must accompany the prospect during
such a trip. For violations of Bylaw 13.5.3 in which the value of
the transportation is $100 or less, the eligibility of the individual
(i.e., prospective or enrolled student-athlete) shall not be affected
conditioned on the individual repaying the value of the benefit to a
charity of his or her choice. The individual, however, shall remain
ineligible from the time the institution has knowledge of the
receipt of the impermissible benefit until the individual repays the
benefit. Violations of this bylaw remain institutional violations
per Constitution 2.8.1, and documentation of the individual’s
repayment shall be forwarded to the enforcement staff with the
institution’s self-report of the violation. [Bylaw 13.5.3]
(c) A meal on or off campus in the locale of the institution. [Bylaw
13.7.2.1.1]
(d) An institution shall not permit its athletics department staff
members or representatives of its athletics interests to pay, provide
or arrange for the payment of transportation costs incurred by
relatives, friends or legal guardian(s) of a prospect to visit the
campus or elsewhere. [Bylaw 13.5.2.8]
(5) You are not eligible if, when you were being recruited, your institution
gave you complimentary admissions to more than one regular-season
home game scheduled outside your institution’s community or gave you
more than three complimentary admissions to that one regular-season
home game scheduled outside your institution’s community. [Bylaws
13.7.2.1 and 13.7.2.2]
(6) You are not eligible if, when you were being recruited, a staff member of
your institution’s athletics department spent money other than what was
necessary for the staff member’s (or representative’s) personal expenses
during an off-campus visit with you outside the locale of the institution.
[Bylaw 13.14.2]
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f. Precollege or Postgraduate Expense - All Sports.
- An institution or a representative of its athletics interests shall not offer,
provide or arrange financial assistance, directly or indirectly, to pay (in
whole or in part) the costs of the prospect’s educational or other expenses
for any period before his or her enrollment or so the prospect can obtain a
postgraduate education. For violations of Bylaw 13.15 in which the value
of the benefit received directly by the prospective student-athlete is $100
or less, the eligibility of the prospective student-athlete shall not be
affected conditioned on the prospective studentathlete repaying the value
of the benefit to a charity of his or her choice. However, the prospective
student-athlete shall remain ineligible from the time the institution has
knowledge of receipt of the direct impermissible benefit until the
prospective student-athlete repays the benefit. Violations of this bylaw
remain institutional violations per Constitution 2.8.1, and documentation
of the prospective student-athlete’s repayment shall be forwarded to the
enforcement staff. [Bylaw 13.15.1]
NOVA SOUTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY ATHLETICS