What will it take to make a consistent play-off team ......• Attitude is probably the biggest difference between a winner and a loser. A winner, because of his attitude will do the

• Kids always come first

• Make our players successful on the field; as well as, in the classroom.

• Build relationships

• Build a program based on discipline

• Work, play and compete with a positive attitude

• Honesty

• Fundamentally sound

• Pride – In yourself, teammates, and community

• Loyalty to the School District

• To promote our program in the community.

• Run a class program

• Always represent our school and community with pride.

• Genuine caring attitude toward our players.

• Surround our student-athletes with the very best coaches.

• Be a positive influence in the lives of our students.

• Everything we do will be done with enthusiasm.

• ORGANIZATION

2

• What will it take to make a consistent play-off team? There is no secret, only hard work, sacrifices, dedication and commitment. There must be strong leadership that will guide the program in the right direction and give stability and consistency, but success depends on the effort of many.

• Attitude is probably the biggest difference between a winner and a loser. A winner, because of his attitude will do the things necessary to prepare himself to win, while a loser will only think of reasons why he is not winning.

• Attitude of the parents and the fans is as important as that of the player, and in fact will affect the player’s attitude. If players are consistently hearing negative remarks about players, the staff or team results, then negative ideas begin to grow. Doubt begins to creep into the subconscious and performance diminishes. On the other hand if players only here positive remarks about the program, player performance and team accomplishments, their confidence will grow and team success will result.

• There is no substitute for hard work, whether it be during practice, in the weight room, or in the classroom. Players with discipline in the classroom will be disciplined on the playing field as well. The team that has best prepared itself will have the advantage on game night. If everything else is equal, the stronger and better conditioned will win. Outworking their opponents becomes a common place with winners.

• Winners make sacrifices. If trying to win becomes important enough, players will sacrifice certain luxuries that non-winners may seem to enjoy. Winners are working while non-winners are coasting. They also watch what they eat, they don’t abuse their bodies by using tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. A winner is willing to make whatever sacrifice is necessary in order to help the team. Parents sometimes make more sacrifices for their child to play, than the athlete himself. In a winning program the people in the community see that the good athletes participate.

• All of the before mentioned ideas are important for a winning program, but one thing may still be the most important- PRIDE!! Pride is what causes a winning performance and winning program. Every individual that has anything to do with this program must have a feeling of tremendous pride just to be a part of this program. Each player and coach should feel that it is an honor to get to represent this program on game night, and get to wear our uniform. He/She must realize that with the privilege of wearing our uniform comes the responsibility of making every effort to win.

• Athletes, while learning what it takes to win and be successful in athletics, are also developing the same characteristics and traits that will make them successful later in life.

3

These are the years when impressions are made and usually stay with a child for the rest of his school years. Turning a child off in Jr. High could be discouraging a possible Varsity prospect from staying with it. Development comes in different stages at the Jr. High level and allowances must be made for that. Give the child a chance to get interested and help him/her learn and develop into an interested player.

1. Teach fundamentals and let the winning take care of itself

2. Teach High School offensive and defensive systems, using the same terminology.

3. Develop and maintain good work habits for game and practice. Keep it orderly and organized.

4. Instruct and require athletes to make team and personal goals. Help instruct them how to make and fulfill them.

5. Instill in the athlete the desire to work hard at this level, intensity and preparation for his/her ultimate goal of becoming a Varsity player in the future.

6. Develop a consistent philosophy of values and direction by all coaches by placing the athletes and their efforts first instead of “won-loss” records.

7. Develop citizenship, sportsmanship, and pride in the athletic .

8. Develop team-work, there is no substitute for this. Do not allow a team to evolve around one player. It won’t work in the future.

9. Provide playing time for all athletes you suit up in a uniform. If they suit up, play them.

10. Develop the clumsy and awkward child with playing time and extra attention. He/she may be a “diamond in the rough”, a future Varsity player. Teach them and develop them, that is a coach’s job.

11. Teach and demand discipline in all aspects of the athletic program. Do not tolerate tantrums and spectacles, it is a reflection of the coach. Do not let violations slide, handle them on the spot.

Jr. High coaches are the most important coaches in the system because of the ages and levels of the students they teach and coach. Students at this age are very impressionable and the experience they receive from the Jr. High coach will determine whether or not they continue athletics on in high programs. It is the duty of the Jr. High coach to recognize the skill level of his players and run his/her program accordingly.

4

This level is the most impressionable level in the high school programs. What they learn or don’t learn here will stay with them throughout their high school tenure. A good experience at the Freshmen level is vital and necessary as well as critical in the overall development program. Their staying in the program depends upon a good learning and enjoyable experience.

1. Develop an appreciation and/or desire to do well in athletics.

2. Develop and maintain good working relations and habits.

3. Develop and maintain (demand) intensity in practice and games.

4. Maintain good discipline and proper attitudes.

5. Develop a good fundamental development of skills.

6. Build pride in the football program and the overall athletic program.

7. Instill the philosophy of “pay your dues”

8. Relate to the rest of the program – work your way up in the program.

9. Keep marginal and under developed players in the program.

10. Strive to play all players suited up in practice and games. Win if possible, but not at the expense of the team’s future or a players personal development.

This level is the feeder level for the Varsity. Attitude and skill development should be falling into place with concentrated efforts of the coaches and players alike.

1. Develop and maintain intensity in practice and games.

2. Develop Varsity prospects for the future.

3. Develop competitive attitudes, citizenship, sportsmanship, and pride in the football program and overall athletic program.

4. Maintain the players’ interest in the program and direct their actions towards the fulfillment of these goals.

5. Relate to the rest of the football program and the overall program.

6. Develop good work habits.

7. Play as many players as possible and win as many games as possible.

8. Win but not at the expense of the players morale or the good of the team.

9. Carry on the “pay your dues” philosophy 5

Participation In The Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program

The goal of our athletic program is to offer the opportunity of participation in multiple sports to all of our students. Participation in the Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program is a privilege, not a right, and therefore our student-athletes will be held to a high standard. Since it is a privilege, the coaching staff has the authority to suspend or revoke the privilege when the rules, regulations, or standards of the athletic program are not followed.

Physical Examination/Rules Acknowledgment & Release/Drug Testing

All athletes in the school athletic program must have an annual physical examination completed by a physician. In addition to the Pre-Participation Physical the following forms if applicable will be required. The Athletic Director, athletic trainer and or any school coaches may require additional forms. These forms must be kept on file in the high school and middle school athletic offices.

Necessary Documents

Prior to participation, a student-athlete must have the following on file:

• Pre-Participation Medical History and Examination form (UIL form only)

• Parent/Student Acknowledgment of Rules form (UIL form only) (HS athletes only)

• Illegal Steroid Use form (UIL form only) (HS athletes only)

• Previous Athletic Participation Form (if applicable)

• IMPACT baseline test and consent form.

• UIL Foreign Exchange Student forms (if applicable)

• Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Code of Conduct acknowledgment form

• Sudden Cardiac Form (all athletes)

• VAISD Drug/Alcohol Parent/Student Consent to Test

• Concussion Acknowledgement From

The school district cares about the well-being of student-athletes; however, the school district does not assume liability for injuries incurred in athletics.

6

Athletic Period

The purpose of the athletic period is to improve the athletic program by enhancing each student-athlete’s abilities. Drills and activities to improve speed, strength, and agility will be utilized. It is mandatory for all student athletes involved in team sports (football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, track (excluding distance runners only) to participate in the athletic period if they wish to participate in a team sport. Each student-athlete involved in the athletic period will participate in year round strength and conditioning training in and out of season. Student-athletes will be encouraged to compete in multiple sports. Student-athletes will not be required to participate in one sport to play another. (Coaches/Athletic Directors discretion on athletes during a semester in which they won’t be competing. Example (spring sports only). Any student athlete that wishes to participate in cross country and track as a distance runner will not be required to be in athletics as long as they participated in cross country in the fall and do not participate in another sport. It is the parents understanding that these athletes will run outside the school day and according to VAISD coaches requirements.

7

Responsibilities Of A Van Alstyne ISD Student-Athlete

All student-athletes have the responsibility to play to win, give their best effort, strive for excellence, and exhibit good conduct at all times in a manner that is a positive example to team members, fellow students, and the community. The fact that an individual has chosen to participate in interscholastic athletics is indicative that the student-athlete has taken into consideration the rewards, privileges, and pleasures attained from participation, in addition to the responsibility of following rules, regulations, and meeting the demands of being a student-athlete. The privilege of representing the Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program coincides with the expectations of the campus principal, coaches, teachers, parents, community, and most of all by fellow teammates and classmates. As student-athletes you are always on display.

The responsibilities of a student-athlete include, but are not limited to, the following:

• The student-athlete will strive for excellence in all activities at all times while being a member of the Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program.

• The student-athlete will faithfully abide by all rules set forth in The Athletic Code of Conduct.

• The student-athlete will personally notify his/her coach when unable to attend practice before the start of the practice to be missed.

• The student-athlete will abide by the coaches directions, instructions, and decisions. Insubordination will not be tolerated.

• The student-athlete will be responsible for the proper care of all clothing and/or equipment. The student athlete will be required to pay for any clothing and/or equipment that is lost, damaged, or destroyed. Issued equipment should not be worn outside of athletic participation (practice/competition).

• Most importantly, the student-athlete will represent Van Alstyne ISD to the best of his/her ability to set a positive example.

Student-Athletes will be expected to:

• Respect coaches, teammates, teachers, staff, administrators and classmates.

• Follow directions the first time they are given.

• Refrain from unsportsmanlike conduct of any manner.

• Comply with V.A.I.S.D. Board Policies, District Student Code of Conduct, and The VAISD Athletic Code of Conduct.

8

Selection Of Teams

The head coach of each sport will determine the players on each team. The decision to have tryouts and make cuts will be made by the head coach and approved by the athletic director. This decision will be made in part when both the coach and the Athletic Director agree that the number of athletes interested in playing will jeopardize the integrity of that program by having too many participants. There could be other factors that lead to this decision. The hardest thing in sports, at any level is selecting a team. The selection of a team will include, but is not limited to: skill level, knowledge of sport, attitude, and experience in the sport. Jr. High and J.V. team members will receive adequate playing time based upon performance and meeting of expectations. Members of Varsity Teams are not guaranteed playing time. Making cuts is not easy, nor is it fun and is a very difficult decision to make. This decision can impact a student for life. The following are guidelines for selecting a team.

The try out period will be of adequate length. Try out procedures will be approved by the Athletic Director and/or Girls Athletic Coordinator. Documentation of all phases of the try out will be recorded. We will not make exceptions. Accommodations for injuries, illness, absence etc.. will be documented and the tryout for that student may be slightly modified (only if needed).

When informing a group that they have not been selected, we will do the following:

1. Talk to each student individually. (Do not hang lists.)

2. Discuss their strengths.

3. Discuss their weaknesses.

4. Give them some direction on how to improve. (drills, club teams, lessons, church and resource leagues, etc..…)

5. Invite them to try again next year.

6. Direct them as to the procedure of changing classes or to become a part of off-season, if that is an option. Take care of class schedule changes with the counselors.

Practice Times/Schedules

According to UIL rules, school teams shall be prohibited from practicing team skills before or after school except during specified practice dates set forth by the UIL, and during the one allowable period during the school day. The respective coach in conjunction with the athletic director and other coaches of in-season sports will arrange practice schedules of each sport. Attempts will be made to insure practice times of one sport will not interfere with practice times for a coinciding sport. Student-athletes competing in multiple sports may at times be subject to overlapping practice schedules. The sport in competition season has priority.

9

Team Travel

All regular school transportation rules and regulations apply when on an athletic trip. All varsity student-athletes are expected to ride the transportation provided by the Van Alstyne ISD to and from all competitions. The athletic department strongly urgesthat all student-athletes leave with a parent/guardian only in emergency situations. Jr. High and Sub-Varsity student-athletes will be allowed to ride home from away athletic events with a parent/guardian once the coach has a signature on a travel consent form. A coach will have these forms available during a specified time after a game. Each student athlete is expected to stay for games of their grade level. For example all 7th graders will be expected to stay for both the “A” and “B” team games for the 7th grade.

Dropping/Quitting a Sport

It is the philosophy of the Van Alstyne Athletic Department that student-athletes should finish what they begin. An athlete may not quit one sport to play another sport. The following procedures should be followed when dropping or quitting a sport:

• Talk to the coach to see if a solution can be reached. (A parent conference or parent contact will be required)

• If a decision is made to quit by a student-athlete grades 7-12, the student-athlete must check out of the sport through the Head Coach. All clothing/equipment issued to the student-athlete must be returned in adequate condition or the student-athlete will be charged to replace the clothes/equipment.

• A student-athlete that quits one sport may not begin the next sport until the original sport he/she quit is over. If there is “mutual consent” between the athlete and the coaches within the first few weeks of the season (prior to actual game competition) a student-athlete may quit with no penalty.

• A student-athlete that quits a sport during season (once actual games or tournaments have begun will be required to run 25 miles (5 miles a day for 5 consecutive school days) and will miss 1 weeks worth of competition (games/not scrimmages) for the next sport he/she participates.

• Coaches and the Athletic Director reserve the right to take all factors into consideration and agree if a student should be required to run the 25 miles. (season ending injuries, long term illness, etc..)

Coaches in conjunction with the athletic director, reserve the right to prohibit any athletes from joining a team or sport if that athlete has routinely failed to complete seasons in other sports that they have started, whether due to conduct, attitude, or poor academic performance. Failure to participate in the mandatory Athletic Period may also constitute dismissal from the athletic program. Routinely quitting sports may result in dismissal from the Athletic Program. 10

Lettering Policies

Student-athletes may receive from the school only one major award during their high school career (UIL). Van Alstyne ISD awards one letter jacket (letter jacket, and sport symbol only) to a student-athlete during their high school career. In order to letter in a sport, the student-athlete must be on the varsity team and satisfy the requirements stated below. Coaches must consider the following before nominating the student-athlete for a letter.

• Conduct as explained in this handbook

• Attendance to all activities to which the athlete is required to attend.

• Completion of the season eligible and in good standing.

• Finish the competition season on the varsity team.

• Finishing the season does not include.

Moving to the JV within the season and returning to the varsity for the playoffs

Promotion from sub-varsity to the playoff roster

Qualifications

• Football – Athlete must play in at least 8 Varsity Quarters

• Basketball – Athlete must play in at least 12 Varsity Quarters

• Baseball/Softball – Athlete must play in at least 5 Varsity Games

• Volleyball – Athlete must play in at least 5 Varsity Games

• Track – Athlete must participate in at least 3 Varsity track meets including District meet.

• Golf/Tennis- Athlete must participate in at least 3 varsity tournaments including the district golf/tennis tournament.

• Cross Country – Athlete must participate in at least 3 varsity xc meets including the district xc meet.

• Power Lifting – Athlete must qualify for regionals or finish in the top 15 in their weight class by the last qualifying date.

11

Classroom Behavior

Student-athletes must maintain a satisfactory citizenship and behavior record by giving respectful attention to classroom activities and by treating teachers, administrators, and fellow students with respect. Tardiness, horseplay, fighting, disrespect, juvenile behavior, etc.… are not acceptable and may result in punishment from the coach of the in-season sport or the Athletic Director up to and including suspension from athletic competitions.

Eligibility/Grades/Tutorials

The Van Alstyne ISD coaches and administration shall determine each student’s eligibility according to UIL rules and regulations as specified in the UIL Constitution and Contest Rules. Van Alstyne ISD strictly adheres to these rules and regulations. UIL and the State Board of Education rules are strictly enforced. In addition, Van Alstyne ISD expects student-athletes to be top academic students. Each student-athlete must realize that he/she is a “student” first and an “athlete” second. The student-athlete must give significant time to his/her academic courses to ensure acceptable grades to meet the UIL requirements for participation. Student athletes that do not maintain passing grades or who are missing assignments may be subject to suspension from athletic competition at any time. Coaches may check student-athlete averages at any time during the grading period. Student-athletes may be required to attend tutorials if their grades are not acceptable.

ISS/DAEP/Code Of Conduct

Any student-athlete that is placed into an off-campus alternative education arrangement will not participate in practices and/or competitions for any extracurricular activity for the duration of the alternative education arrangement. Additional time may result in the dismissal from any in-season sport. Any student-athlete disciplined under the student code of conduct could be subject to suspension or dismissal from the athletic program at the Athletic Director and/or Head Coach’s discretion. Any student-athlete receiving ISS (In School Suspension) on the day of an athletic competition is ineligible to participate in that competition. A student-athlete placed in ISS on the days prior to an athletic competition is subject to loss of playing time and/or punishment based on the head coach’s discretion.

12

Attendance/Absences/Tardies

Student-athletes are expected to be dressed and on time to all practices and competition and remain there for the duration of the practice or competition. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to notify the coach if he/she is going to miss a competition. As a member of the Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program, you are making an important commitment to the program.

*Missing any UIL competition for a discretionary reason will result in suspension for the next scheduled competition. Missing a practice for a discretionary reason may result in disciplinary actions at the discretion of the Head Coach including, but not limited to, suspension, loss of playing time, and/or physical activity.

*An excused absence is granted for an illness, emergency, family emergency etc.… In such case, the parent/student-athlete must call the coach prior to the absence, as well as present the coach and/or athletic director a written note from the parent/guardian, immediately following the incident. Communication is the responsibility of the student-athletes and parents.

As with any other activity, please be aware that excessive tardiness or absences result in a loss of instructional time. This loss of time could subject the student-athlete the loss of playing time or even dismissal from the team. Sports specific drills and conditioning may be required for any tardy or absence at the discretion of the Head Coach.

Participation When Ill Or Injured

Any student-athlete that is injured during the course of the season or has an illness of a minor nature and is unable to participate due to this injury or illness must continue to follow all expectations, rules, and regulations, if the student-athlete wishes to remain a part of the team. The student-athlete will not participate but will be required to attend all practice sessions and sit with the team during competitions. Failure to attend practices and competitions can result in dismissal from the team. Athletes learn from each practice session, whether they are actually working out or simply observing. A note from a parent explaining an illness or injury will be accepted for 1 day. After the first day, a doctors note or call from the parent will be required for further explanation of the circumstance.

All student/athletes with an injury will be expected to do what they can without causing aggravation to their injury. They may also wear a different shirt to symbolize to the coaches that they are injured and limited to what they can or can’t do. The Athletic Trainer will notify the coaches of any restrictions that may limit or impact an athletes ability to fully participate.

Criminal Charges

Any student-athlete legally charged with, arrested for, or convicted of a felony may be subject to suspension from all athletic competitions, and/or other disciplinary actions until the matter has been cleared through the courts or punishment has been served. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in all practices during that time to remain in the athletic program. Depending on the severity of the charges (including major misdemeanors) and the outcome of the case, a student-athlete may be suspended for one or more games, dismissed from that sport for the remainder of the season, or dismissed from the athletic program for the remainder of the year. If the student-athlete is not found guilty or all charges are dropped, then the student-athlete will be reinstated into the athletic program.

13

Drug And Alcohol Use

It is the philosophy of the Van Alstyne ISD that our interscholastic and extracurricular programs shall be drug and alcohol free. The basis of this is founded by the following:

1. Use of drugs and alcohol is illegal for school age students.

2. Abuse of these products has been shown to bring about short and long term health and safety risks.

3. Students using these products may not be capable of fulfilling commitments and responsibilities towards themselves, teammates, and school.

4. Student-athletes will be held responsible for their behavior and choices they make.

Education regarding drug, alcohol, and steroid abuse may be provided throughout the course of a student-athletes involvement in the athletic program by members of the coaching staff. The NCAA, UIL, and National Federation of High Schools publishes and distributes information regarding the dangers of substance abuse.

14

SUPPLEMENTS:

No coach or employee of the VAISD will ever encourage a student athlete to purchase or consume any type of health supplements. Research has shown that protein is the only supplement kids may be deficient in that doesn’t have detrimental side effects. Protein can be found in most meats, nuts etc.. or can be purchased at any grocery store. No supplements will be allowed on VAISD property and any student/athlete caught having supplements will punished according to a Level I offense.

Disciplinary Violations for Student-Athletes The consequences for disciplinary violations for student-athletes has been developed in conjunction with VAISD’s Student Code of Conduct, but with increased requirements due to the leadership role assumed by student-athletes. It is the intent of the athletic staff of VAISD to emphasize that self-discipline is an integral and essential part of any successful academic and athletic program. Specific definitions of the various levels of discipline violations can be found in the VAISD’s Student Code of Conduct which is available on the VAISD website. Student athletes disciplined for infractions at the campus-level will also receive one or more of the following consequences as a result of the violations of the Athletic Guidelines:

Level I Discipline Violations- Level I disciplinary offenses that occur while participating in athletics range from mild acts of misconduct including disrespecting a teacher, tardiness, behavior issues etc.. Level I violations will be handled by each head coach and their procedures and punishment will be communicated within their individual sport/team rules and expectations and discussed at the pre-season parent meeting. These violations will result in one or more of the following consequences.

a. Coach/ Student-athlete conference

b. Coach/Student-athlete conference with additional sport-appropriate conditioning activities. In accordance with State law, the student-athlete will not be subjected to excessive or unreasonable conditioning activities.

c. Coach/Student-athlete/parent conference and a behavior contract

d. Coach/Student-athlete/parent conference and suspension of playing time and or suspension for entire game.

e. Repeated violations of Level I or Level II offenses or those of a more serious nature, shall result in a more severe response or referral to Level II or possibly Level III

15

Level II Discipline Violations- Level II offenses are acts of misconduct which disrupt the

orderly educational process or present behavior unbecoming of a Panther athlete. Examples of disciplinary options at this level ; In-School Suspension (“ISS”), Out of School Suspension (“OSS”), DAEP, referral to law enforcement, tickets from law enforcement including minor in possession, curfew violations etc., arrest, and/or restitution of damages. Attending any party/gathering where alcohol and /or drugs are present and any issues regarding vaping (including but not limited to paraphernalia or possession).

Student-athletes assigned to ISS are expected to participate in all practice sessions (outside the school day) during the period in which they are placed within in-school suspension but will not be allowed to participate in any UIL sanctioned event on the day(s) they are in ISS. Student-athletes assigned to OSS/DAEP are prohibited from participating in, or attending, any school sponsored/school related activities, including extracurricular and/or co-curricular activities, during the period in which they are in OSS or attending the DAEP. In addition to the campus based consequences, the District’s Athletic Department will impose one or more of the following consequences.

ISS- (discipline placement)Suspension from ½ up to entire game (coaches Discretion). Sport appropriate conditioning activities according to individual sport (head coaches) guidelines.

** (1/2 of game to be determined by actual game time or by innings/points etc. )

Off season athletes (athletes with no participation left for that school year) will be required to run 1 mile of bleacher snakes per day in ISS. There will be no carryover from school year to school year, but any student participating in upcoming (same school year) sport will be required to miss playing time (see above).

DAEP Placement:Any student athlete assigned to DAEP (30 days or less) will be required to miss a minimum of one weeks worth

of competition. (Games not scrimmages) (1 football game, 1 tennis/golf tournament, 1 track meet, 2 softball, baseball, basketball, volleyball games etc.). Student athlete will also be required to complete 10 miles of bleacher snakes (2 miles per day for 5 consecutive school days). This is in addition to regular practice and conditioning and will be completed before he/she is allowed to participate in competition The games the student athlete misses while in DAEP do not count towards his/her missed games. Off season athletes (athletes with no participation left for that school year) will be required to run 20 miles of bleacher snakes. (2 miles per day for 10 consecutive school days)

Student Athletes Attending Parties: Any student athlete confirmed to have attended a party or

gathering where alcohol/drugs are present will be required to run 2 miles of bleacher snakes. This is in addition to regular practice and conditioning and will be completed before he/she is allowed to participate in competition. This is a one time offense. The second offense (same school year) of this nature will result in suspension from sport for 1 weeks worth of competition (games not scrimmages) and 5 miles of bleacher snakes. 1 mile per day for 5 consecutive school days.

16

Level II Discipline Violations continued-

Referral to law enforcement: including but not limited to the issuance of tickets or charges (excluding traffic violations). (M.I.P) (M.I.C).

A picture or other evidence including but not limited to posts on social media in which a student athlete is pictured in the possession of alcohol (actually holding it) or drugs (including vaping or vaping paraphernalia will result in the same consequences as a student receiving a ticket or citation for (M.I.P) OR (M.I.C)

1st offense: •Automatic suspension from sport for 1 week worth of competition . (Games not scrimmages) (1 football game, 1 tennis/golf tournament, 1 track meet, 2 softball, baseball, basketball, volleyball games etc.). .•10 miles bleacher snakes (2 per day for 5 days)•Meeting with coach, student –athlete •Parent notification.

•2nd offense=Level 3

All Level II discipline issues will be documented by the head coach and/or athletic director.

17

Level III Discipline Violations: Failed Drug Test, DAEP placement for more than 30 days.

Any student athlete assigned to DAEP (more than 30 days) will be required to miss a minimum of two weeks worth of competition. (Games not scrimmages) (2 football games, 2 tennis/golf tournaments, 2 track meets, 4 softball, baseball, basketball, volleyball games etc.). Student athlete will also be required to complete 20 miles of bleacher snakes (2 miles per day for 10 consecutive school days). This is in addition to regular practice and conditioning and will be completed before he/she is allowed to participate in competition. The games the student athlete misses while in DAEP do not count towards his/her missed games. Off season athletes (athletes with no participation left for that school year) will be required to run 30 miles of bleacher snakes. (2 miles per day for 15 consecutive school days)

Failed Drug Test1st offense:• Suspension of 1 weeks worth of competition (1 football game, 1 tennis/golf tournament, 2 softball, baseball, basketball, volleyball games)•25 miles of running (5 miles per day/5 consecutive school days)•Meeting with Coach/student-athlete/parent•Explanation to Team.•10 hours community/school service (documented by head coach)

2nd offense:

• Suspension from 2 weeks worth of competition (2 football games, 2 tennis/golf tournaments, 4 softball, baseball, volleyball games)•50 miles of running (5 miles per day/10 consecutive school days)•Meeting with Coach/student-athlete/parent•Explanation to Team.• 20 hours community/school service (documented by head coach)

3rd offense:

Meeting with Coach/student-athlete/parentRemoval from athletic program for 1 calendar year.

18

Level IV Discipline Violations: Any behavior that falls into this category

required mandatory expulsion from school and suspension from all school sponsored/school related activities, including extracurricular and/or co-curricular activities. This includes DUI’s/DWI’s and other serious criminal charges.

Student Athletes involved in a Level IV disciplinary infraction will automatically be suspended from the athletic program for a period of 1 calendar year from the date of the incident. Upon completion of this suspension from athletics , student-athletes who desire re-entry into the program must meet with the Athletic Director, head coaches of sports involved, and the appropriate school principal and be accompanied by parent/guardians. If re-entry ifs granted, a probationary contract for re-entry into the athletic program will be developed. After discussing the specific contents and obligations outlined in the contract, all parties present will be required to sign the contract for the student-athlete to be eligible for re-entry into the athletic program.

For student-athletes to re-enter the athletics program after being removed for any reason, the following procedure will be followed:

• Student-athletes and their parent(s)/guardian(s) will meet with the Athletic Disciplinary Council to request re-entry to the program. If re-entry is granted, a probationary contract for re-entry into the athletic program will be developed. After discussing the specific contents and obligations outlined in the contract, all parties present will be required to sign the contract for the student-athlete to be eligible for re-entry into the athletic program. If all parties agree, the student-athlete will be allowed to re-enter the program in accordance with the terms of the probationary contract.

19

Athletic Dress Code

In addition to following Van Alstyne ISD Board approved dress code (found in the student handbook) student-athletes have additional expectations in regard to hairstyle and jewelry. In accordance with UIL rules and regulations, for safety reasons, student-athletes are not allowed to wear jewelry of any kind in athletic competition. Student-athletes will also be required to maintain a hairstyle suitable for athletic competition, as well as by the discretion of the head coach and/or athletic director. Suitable may be defined as (1) not impairing vision “above the eye brows” (2) Above the collar (male) “to be determined by the coach” (3) not promoting disunity “shaved insignias, alternative colors, etc...”

Practice Uniforms

Athletes can purchase or be issued a set of practice clothes that may include but not limited to shirt, shorts, sweats, or wind-suits. These clothes or equipment will be worn during practice or competition only. The student-athlete will pay a replacement fee for all issued clothing or equipment not returned at the end of the year. Student-athletes will not be allowed to participate at the next grade level until outstanding fines are paid in full. Consequences for not being dressed in proper practice gear will be at the discretion of the head coach. The required practice gear will be a blank white shirt with royal blue shorts (if other practice gear is not available/or feasible)

Sportsmanship

The Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program Stresses exemplary behavior and attitude during practice and competitions. Unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Student-athletes should be positive role models for students and the community. Student-athletes will be respectful to other contestants, fans, and to all coaches and officials. Technical fouls, penalties for unsportsmanlike conduct or flagrant conduct, and ejections will not be tolerated.

Athletic Suspension/Consequences:

Athletes may also have punishment consequences for actions unbecoming a Van Alstyne Athlete administered by the discretion of the Head Coach and/or Athletic Director. Each sport is different, and therefore may have different consequences for the following; tardies, absences, foul language, fighting, unsportsmanlike conduct, and failure to comply with expectations. The Head Coach of each sport will communicate his/her consequences and expectations for their sport to the student-athletes.

20

21

BEHAVIOR EXPECTATIONS OF SPECTATORS ~ ----From UIL Parent Guidelines

•Remember that you are at the contest to support and yell for your team, and to

enjoy the skill and competition-not to intimidate or ridicule the other team or its fans.

•Remember that school athletics are a learning experience for students and that

mistakes are sometimes made. Praise student-athletes in their attempt to improve

themselves as students, as athletes, and as people, just as you would praise a

student working in the classroom.

•A ticket is a privilege to observe the contest, not a license to verbally assault others

or be generally obnoxious.

•Learn the rules of the game, so that you may understand and appreciate why

certain situations take place.

•Show respect for the opposing players, coaches, spectators and support groups.

•Respect the integrity and judgment of game officials. Understand that they are doing

their best to help promote the student-athlete, and admire their willingness to

participate in full view of the public.

•Recognize and show appreciation for an outstanding play by either team.

•Refrain from the use of any controlled substances (alcohol, drugs, etc..) before,

during, and after the game on or near the site of the event (i.e. tailgating).

•Use only cheers that support and uplift the teams involved.

•Be a positive role model at events through your own actions and by censuring those

around you whose behavior is unbecoming.

•Parents and spectators should be aware that the school can (and should) remove

them from the premises and can prohibit them from attending future contests due to

undesirable behaviors.

•Game officials can ask that school administrators have unruly fans removed from a

contest facility.

•There is no such thing as a “right” to attend interscholastic athletics. Interscholastic

athletics are considered a “privilege” and the spectator who avails themselves of it is

expected to conduct himself or herself accordingly.

•Keep in mind that you are a guest of the school, and that while winning is certainly

an admirable goal, it is hollow if it comes at the expense of morals, ethics, and just

plain common sense.

•The school is responsible for the behavior of their spectators. The school district can

be and will be punished for actions of patrons in violation of UIL standards and rules.

•Parents or unauthorized personnel are not allowed on the field or court during

practice or competitions without permission from the head coach or VAISD

administration. This includes the weight room, training room, locker rooms and

dugouts.

The Athletic Director empowers the coaching staff to enforce and maintain all policies and standards described in the athletic handbook. Communication will be maintained between the coaching staff, the Athletic Director, and the campus principal when infractions warrant suspension from athletic and/or school activities.

The Van Alstyne ISD does not discriminate against any person because of race, creed, national origin, age, sex, economic status, or handicapping condition. Student-athletes and parents are expected to follow the chain-of-command and first confer with the coach in question, then if necessary the Head Varsity Coach of that sport, followed by the Athletic Director, and finally the Superintendent of Schools when an athletic concern exists. All academic concerns shall be initiated with the teacher and then the campus principal. Concerns addressing both academic and athletic matters should be addressed to the Campus Principal and Athletic Director.

The Van Alstyne ISD reserves the right to empower any VAISD administrator to suspend, remove, or ban any fan from athletic competitions for violating the rules and guidelines set forth by VAISD and the University Interscholastic League.

The Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Program is an integral part of the total school experience for both boys and girls. It offers a variety of sports and activities to students who have the desire to participate. The athletic program is a vital part of education.

The student –athlete will be held accountable and responsible for all policies contained within this handbook and for any Additional Expectations set forth by the Head Coach and/or Athletic Director.

22

(Athletic Department Copy)

VAN ALSTYNE ISD ATHLETIC HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM

I understand the policies and procedures of the Van Alstyne ISD Athletic Department, I am also aware of the consequences for violating said policies. If at anytime I have questions regarding the handbook, I will address these questions to the Head Coach/Athletic Director. I understand that the Athletic Director and coaching staff will enforce these policies, procedures, and consequences.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date


Athlete Signature Date

23

(Parent/Guardian & Athlete Copy)

VAN ALSTYNE ISD ATHLETIC HANDBOOK ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FORM


Parent/Guardian Signature Date


Athlete Signature Date

24