MARANATHA CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

ATHLETIC

HANDBOOK

Updated June 2016

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Table of Contents

PHILOSOPHYMission Statement ……………………………………….. 4Six Pillars of Character ………………………………….. 4Philosophy of Christian Athletics ……………………….. 5Coaches Responsibility ………………………………….. 6Student Athlete/Parent Responsibility …………………… 6Character Qualities ………………………………………. 7Spiritual Victories/Defeats ………………………………. 8

GENERAL INFORMATIONStudent Eligibility ………………………………………… 9-10

Physicals ………………………………………….. 9Emergency Medical Form ………………………… 9KSHSAA …………………………………………. 9KSHSAA Transfer Form …………………………. 9Maranatha Grade Eligibility ……………………… 9School Attendance/Homework …………………… 9Managers/Stat Personnel …………………………. 9Injuries/Dr. Notes ………………………………… 10Sportsmanship/Demeanor ………………………… 10Drugs/Alcohol Policy …………………………….. 10

Sports Offered ……………………………………………. 10Students commitment to a sport ………………………….. 11Sports Fees ……………………………………………….. 11Affiliation ………………………………………………… 11

KSHSAA ………………………………………… 11Crossroads Conference …………………………… 11Middle School Sports …………………………….. 11

Rental Facilities …………………………………………… 11Limitations of Scheduling ………………………………… 12

Master Scheduling ………………………………… 12Lettering/Awards …………………………………………. 13

Sports Award Nights ……………………………… 13Varsity Letters ……………………………………. 13Coaches Discretion ……………………………….. 13Specific Sport Pins ……………………………….. 13Special Awards …………………………………… 13School Records …………………………………… 13

Transportation ……………………………………………. 14-15To Practices/Games…………..…………………… 14Supervision ……………………………………….. 14

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Arriving/While at Site .…………………………… 14Leaving the Site ………………………………….. 14Loss of Privilege …………………………………. 15Drinks and Food …………………………………. 15Meals after games ………………………………… 15Inside/Outside Cleaning ………………………….. 15Fueling Procedures ……………………………….. 15Emergencies ……………………………………… 15Driver Safety Meetings …………………………… 15

Sports Goals ……………………………………………… 16Specific Sport Guidelines ………………………………… 17-19

Basketball ………………………………………… 17Bowling ………………………………………….. 17Cheerleading/Dance Troop ………………………. 17Cross Country/Track …………………………….. 18Football ………………………………………….. 18Golf ……………………………………………… 18Soccer …………………………………………… 18Tennis …………………………………………… 19Volleyball ……………………………………….. 19

Pursuing Victory with honor code of conduct ………….. 20-23Code of Conduct for Parents ……………………. 20,21Code of Conduct for Student/Athletes …………. 22,23

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Mission Statement

The mission of Maranatha Christian Academy and EKCS is to train and equip students for life and for service to Jesus Christ through a biblical worldview, character development, and academic excellence.

Having an excellent athletic program is a vital part of the overall quality of education at Maranatha Christian Academy. The physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual training students receive in athletics helps provide balance to the academic instruction in the classroom. Athletic programs are designed to support the Mission Statement and not compete with or replace the priority of the academic programs.

Maranatha Christian Academy Athletic Program is committed to excellence in academics and athletics. As part of the training and equipping young people for life and service for Jesus Christ through our

athletic program, we strive to adhere to the rules of competition and sportsmanship, and to display the Six Pillars of Character (trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and citizenship) as set

forth by the motto of Pursuing Victory with honor character program. We strive for these standards whether on or off the field or court.

SIX PILLARS OF CHARACTER FOR PURSUING VICTORY WITH HONOR

TRUSTWORTHINESS – Coaches and athletes must always behave in ways that justify and generate trust. This includes demonstrating and teaching the importance of integrity, honesty, reliability, and loyalty.

RESPECT – Good sportsmanship requires participants to behave respectfully, being civil, polite, even gracious. Coaches should treat athletes, parents, officials, and others thoughtfully. Coaches and athletes should win or lose with class, demonstrate appreciation for opponents, help a fallen opponent, shake hands with opponents with sincere respect, never taunt or trash talk opponents, never use profanity, assist opponents in whatever way possible. Coaches should use positive coaching methods to make the experience enjoyable and foster a love and appreciation for the sport. Encourage student athletes to pursue victory with passion, to think and play as a team, to do their best and continually improve through personal effort and discipline.

RESPONSIBILITY – Exercise self control by avoiding visible displays of anger or frustration and pursuing excellence in all aspects of their responsibilities, from skills training to character building to counseling. Coaches should always exercise responsibility in demonstrating professional knowledge of the rules and strategies for their sport, being responsible in the fundamentals of first aid, and seeking to teach good character through athletics. They are to provide for the safety and welfare of their athletes at all times. They need to consistently challenge their athletes with these character qualities and warn them against dangers and pitfalls in their Christian walk.

FAIRNESS – Coaches should assure that their teams and athletes play by the rules and treat everyone fairly. Fair play is fundamental to sports .Coaches should be fair in competitive situations, team selections, discipline, and all other matters. Team members, coaches, and parents should be open-minded and willing to listen and learn.

CARING – The professional duty of coaches to put athletes’ welfare first is one element of caring. Coaches have a duty to care about the health and safety of athletes and opponents. Put safety and health considerations above the desire to win.

CITIZENSHIP – Coaches should model good citizenship by following the rules and principles of sportsmanship. Sportsmanship demands a commitment to scrupulous integrity (including compliance with the letter and spirit of the rules

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even when one could get away with violations), fair play, respectfulness and grace. Recognize and acknowledge acts of good sportsmanship on the court or field

Maranatha Christian AcademyPHILOSOPHY OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETICS

We believe our athletic programs are based upon a ministry of service to God, teammates, coaches, and all others who see our lives. As coaches and athletes we are to be humble and challenged daily by the Holy Spirit and God’s Word.

Our ministry and service arises from a view of athletics as a tool in God’s hands to develop Christ-like attitudes and character. Athletics is an excellent means to teach Christian character for the athletes as well as student body supporters.

Qualities such as patience, endurance, self control, graciousness in a winning/losing, loyalty, teamwork and humility are all a few of the characteristics that can be obtained through the ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives. These fruits of the Holy Spirit are vital for our student athletes to be successful Christians later in life. (see next page for additional examples of character qualities)

We also desire to minister to the physical needs of our students. Practice sessions should be challenging and skill oriented. Our goal is to have programs beginning with participation in upper elementary participation programs, through junior high/middle school athletics, continuing with junior varsity athletics in high school, and culminating in the varsity level athletics for high school student athletes. While we desire that every athlete be allowed to participate, we are sometimes limited by space and staff. In those situations, cuts may need to occur.

Christian athletics must never place itself above academics nor serve as a stepping stone for personal goals and interests above learning and loving Jesus.

We define winning as spiritual victory that can celebrated as a result of God’s gracious love among us rather than what the scoreboard reads at the end of the contest.

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Coaches Responsibility

The challenge and responsibility as a coach is to teach athletic skills from a Biblical Christian perspective. At all times you should strive to glorify God, develop the talent God has given to the athletes in your care, and be a faithful role model and witness of Jesus Christ.

The lessons athletes learn under your supervision will serve them for a lifetime. Some of these lessons will be related to athletic skills, but more of them will be related to life choices. They will learn teamwork, decision-making, self control, discipline, giving, helping, caring, competing, love, joy, sorrow, confronting, humility, dealing with pain, and a variety of daily lessons that will equip them for lifelong service.

As you work with their families and teachers, you can impact each athlete to be more like Christ, through your coaching methods and lessons. This begins by the coach having a personal, daily walk with the Lord. As you live your life for the Lord and commit your coaching to Him, the Lord will open up opportunities for you to minister to the athletes God has put in your care. You are encouraged to use God’s Word as you coach and guide our young men and women.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God and is profitable for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (II Timothy 3:16)

RESPONSIBILITY OF STUDENT ATHLETE/STUDENTS/PARENTS

1. To understand that participation in an athletic/activity program is a privilege and not a right.2. To emphasize the proper ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct and fair play.3. To eliminate all possibilities which tend to destroy the best values of the game or competition.4. To stress the values derived from playing the game or competition fairly.5. To respect and support the coaching staff and their goals.6. To show cordial courtesy to visiting teams and officials.7. To establish a good relationship between visitors and host.8. To respect the integrity and judgment of sports officials.9. To achieve a thorough understanding and acceptance of the rules of the game or competition and the

standards of eligibility.10. To encourage leadership, use of initiative, and good judgment.11. To remember that an athletic/activity contest is only a game or competition ….. not a matter of life and

death for student, parent, coach/sponsor, school, official, fan, community, state or nation.

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CHARACTER QUALITIES

The following are a list of some of the character qualities that we would like for our athletes to attain. We, as coaches, strive to develop these qualities through our practices, games, devotional times, and throughout the sports seasons. These are based upon Scripture and we want our athletes to work on them through study, practice, and prayer.

1. Dependability – be at all practices and games unless you are excused because of some extenuating circumstance. Do more than what is expected of you in all situations.

2. Punctuality – be on time, never late!3. Love – be self-sacrificing and show a real concern for team members, coaches, and opponents.

Remember, Christ centered His love on others, not Himself. Love produces action! Love produces a response of love from others.

4. Enthusiasm – take an interest in every part of your sport and be glad to quickly carry out every part of the job. (I. Thessalonians 5:16)

5. Faith – show that you know the Lord is in control of all circumstances and that He is carrying out His will in your life. (Hebrews 11:1)

6. Humility – demonstrate by words and actions that God is the one responsible for your abilities, talents and success.

7. Endurance – you must be able to withstand stress, hard work and the problems that all Christian athletes experience. (Galatians 6:9)

8. Boldness – be ready to boldly express what Jesus Christ has done for you. The Christian athlete cannot be one who is timid or gives up. (Acts 4:23)

9. Obedience – Jesus was always obedient to His Father’s will. We need to be obedient to the Lord and to those who are in authority. Show us that you believe this!

10. Diligence – use all your strength and ability to complete each part of your task whether in practice, in a game or anywhere else. (Colossians 3:23)

11. Responsibility – athletes need to do everything that is expected of them. Coaches need to know that athletes are capable of doing things without direct supervision. Take the initiative to work and make intelligent decisions.

12. Determination – make up your mind that you will accomplish God’s goals in His time, regardless of the opposition. (II Timothy 4:7)

13. Joyfulness – show that your relationship with Christ means something wonderful to you. What is on the inside will show on the outside!

14. Confidence – athletes should know that they can be winners in God’s sight as they totally give all they have to Jesus Christ.

15. Intensity – this word can be summed up as “total release”. Give everything you have at all times, focusing your total attention upon the job at hand and putting forth your every effort to complete it perfectly.

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Examples of Spiritual Victories

To demonstrate the fruit of the Holy Spirit during normal and stressful situations. A Christian coach or athlete should always be under the control of the Holy Spirit, or quickly correct his mistakes using Biblical principles.

To lead a team member or opponent to a saving knowledge of Jesus Christ.

To learn how to trust God for everything.

To develop a personal relationship with God by prayer and Bible reading.

To praise God for physical victories as every good thing comes from Him.

To treat our bodies and health well as God created our bodies to serve Him. To use our bodies as a temple for the Holy Spirit.

To submit to the rules of the game and the officials who enforce the rules as God has directed Christians to be submissive to authority.

To praise God for physical defeats by understanding that God is good and perfect in His will.

To develop the understanding of the need to present oneself as a living sacrifice unto God, serving Him presently in athletics, and to continue serving Him in all that is done for an entire lifetime.

To give a total release performance by giving 100% for Christ.

Examples of Spiritual Defeats

To use inappropriate words, gestures, or body language towards opponents, referees fans or others.

To belittle an opponent by trash talking. This is damaging because both teams have the same worth, being created in the image of God.

To allow winning to dominate the life of the team or the life of the individual. This must be reserved for Christ alone.

To intentionally break the rules of the game or use foul tactics to gain desired results.

To destroy or mistreat athletic equipments, locker room, facilities, or worse yet, to exploit athletes.

To become angered to the extent of losing one’s temper or being uncontrolled.

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General Information

Student EligibilityNo student may represent Maranatha Christian Academy or KSHSAA without prior approval. A series of forms must be filed with the Athletic office and clearance granted prior to the first practice and/or first contest. These forms include:Physical Form and Concussion formEach athlete must have a current school year physical form and a state required concussion form on file. These forms must be signed by physician, parent, and student. A physical taken after May 1st of the preceding school year will be valid until the end of the following school year. Required prior to first practice!

Emergency Medical FormEach athlete must have a current emergency medical form on file. Copies, which list emergency contact phone numbers, are transported in medical kits to practices and contests. Parent signatures are required on these forms. Required prior to first practice!

KSHSAAThis information is submitted by the athletic director to KSHSAA verifying that all participants meet age and grade eligibility requirements. Form includes birth date, enrollment date, semester classes passed, year in school and each sport in which the student is involved. Required prior to first contest!

KSHSAA Transfer FormStudent changing schools after their 9th grade year are required by KSHSAA to provide a transfer form for sport participation. These take some time to fill out and require four signatures to process. When the forms are completed they are sent to the school the athletes has transferred from and then sent to the KSHSAA offices. The level of play for the athlete is determined by KSHSAA and could limit or deny athlete eligibility. Approval or denial is required prior to first contest!

Grade Eligibility CheckThis is not a form but is a school requirement to maintain eligibility for extra curricular participation. Grades are checked every two weeks. One or more “F’s” or two or more “D’s” would make a student ineligible to play for the following two weeks. Final grades from previous year carry over to the next year to determine eligibility for the first two weeks of the next quarter.

School Attendance/HomeworkUnless excused for a medical appointment or illness, a student must be in class at least five class periods during the school day to participate in that day’s athletic contest or practice. If a student leaves school early for an illness, they will be ineligible to participate in that days contest or practice. School attendance is a priority when it comes to participating in extra curricular activities! Athletes are required to get the make-up work from classes missed and have that completed when they return to classes.Coaches are also encouraged to have athletes bring homework with them to work on during down time at games or activities. Time management for athletes is critical to their success on and off the field or court.

Manager/Stat personnelStudents who serve as managers or statisticians are considered part of the team, but not players, and must meet the same eligibility criteria to participate. This would include attendance, grades, and all submitted forms. A manager 9

and/or stat person would not need to submit a physical form (unless they will be an active participant in practice) nor would they need a transfer waiver. The managers or statisticians need to be of the same gender as the team in which they are serving. They would need to have an emergency medical form on file.Injuries/Doctor NotesAny player under the supervision of a doctor due to an injury or illness will not be allowed to participate or return to practice without written clearance from the doctor and his/her parents. 1. All injuries must be reported to your coach so that the proper first aid or treatment may be given. We

must have the medical release form on file before any athlete will be allowed to participate. All athletes must have insurance to cover them in case of accident.

2. The best treatment for injuries is prevention. Many injuries could be prevented with proper conditioning. Conditioning is your responsibility prior to the start of each sports season. Make sure that you are physically ready so that you can withstand the physical stress of practice. Begin slowly and work up to a high level in your conditioning. Each athlete must have 2 weeks of practice before competing in games.

3. Each coach will treat injuries to the best of their ability. Under no circumstances will they try to replace your doctor. If we feel medical attention is necessary, we will recommend it although we encourage you to take your child to your doctor if you feel that it is best.

Sportsmanship/DemeanorA student may lose eligibility for demonstrating poor sportsmanship in practices as determined by his/her coach. Any player ejected from a contest will be ineligible for the next scheduled contest. Any further offenses will be dealt with through the athletic director and coach. This may result in the dismissal of a player for the rest of the season and possibly the school year. No behavioral actions that reflect negatively on Maranatha or our Lord Jesus Christ will be tolerated. Issues involving behavior that leads to technicals or red cards, or issues involving profanity on the court or field will be issues that will be dealt with as a character issue through the athletic director, dean of students and/or principal along with the coach for that team.

Drugs/Alcohol/Violations of School PolicyStudents are subject to loss of eligibility based on violations of school policy as it related to illegal drug or alcohol use, lying, cheating, stealing and other types of negative behavior and actions as defined in the student handbook. Any student suspended from school will be ineligible to play in any games or matches for a total of 5 school days. (1 day suspension = 5 day athletic suspension, 2 day = 10 days, etc) The coach does have the option after conferring with the Athletic Director and Dean of Students to dismiss a suspended athlete from the team.

Sports OfferedMaranatha offers a wide variety of sports at the junior high and high school level. All students are encouraged to participate in at least one sport during the course of the school year.

Fall Season HS Boys Soccer, Cross Country, FootballHS Girls Volleyball, Cross Country, Tennis, CheerleadingJH Boys Soccer, Football, Cross CountryJH Girls Volleyball, Cross Country

Winter Season HS Boys Basketball, BowlingHS Girls Basketball, Bowling, CheerleadingJH Boys BasketballJH Girls Basketball

Spring Season HS Boys Track, Golf, Tennis, BaseballJH/ HS Girls Track, SoccerJH Boys Track

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Student’s commitment to a sportWe believe that commitment is a large part of the principles that we would like to teach through our athletic program. Therefore, we want athletes and parents to prayerfully consider their involvement prior to signing up and making the commitment to participate. Once an athlete has made that commitment and has completed the tryout portion of practices to the point that the coach has placed them as a part of a team, the athletes are expected to fulfill their commitment until the end of that season. If an athlete quits the team prior to the end of that season, they will be expected to meet with the athletic director where it will be determined whether they are allowed to tryout for a sport during the next sport season. If an athlete makes the decision to quit a team, they must personally meet face to face to inform the coach of that decision and take responsibility for their decision.

Sports FeeDue to costs associated with rental of facilities, equipment and uniform purchases, transportation, officials, and coaching stipends, all athletes are charged a nominal fee to participate in sports at Maranatha. These fees are added to monthly billing statements after notification is given to the business office by the Athletic Director.

Team Sports JH $100, HS $125 Individual Team Sports JH $50, HS $60

Membership/AffiliationMaranatha Christian Academy is a full member of the Kansas State High School Activities Association (KSHSAA) which allows our school to compete in any and all KSHSAA sponsored activities and state championships. We currently compete as a 2A school in KSHSAA.

Conference StatusBeginning with the 2008-09 school year, Maranatha became a member of the Crossroads Conference. The current members of the conference include: Barstow School, Butler High School, Heritage Christian School, Kansas City Christian Academy, Sherwood High School, Summit Christian Academy, University Academy, Van Horn High School. Middle School Sports (6 th -8 th grades) Beginning in 2015-16 our junior high athletic program began as members of the Crossroads Conference as well. The members from the Crossroads Conference who have entered their JH teams include: Barstow School, Heritage Christian Academy, Kansas City Christian Academy, Summit Christian Academy. The league provides contests in the sports of volleyball, soccer, cross country, basketball and track. League tournaments in these sports are also offered at the end of the season and are voluntary on participation. Our junior high track program in independent of any league but competes against most of the public schools that compete with our high school, as well as some smaller Christian schools as well.

Rental FacilitiesIn many sports Maranatha has to rent athletic facilities to accommodate the number of teams that we have playing at any one time. We use our gymnasium at 63rd and Lackman as much as possible but also rely on the following off campus facilities.

Okun Fieldhouse Stump Park Swarner Park 3&2 BaseballMASC Baseball Complex Shawnee Mission Park University of Saint Mary’s

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Limitations of SchedulingAs a member of KSHSAA, we follow all guidelines and policies set forth by the organization. This includes limits on numbers of playing dates for all sports. All post season play including regionals, sub-states, and state competitions are in addition to the limits set forth by KSHSAA.

Soccer 16 matches Football 9 games before districts Volleyball 36 point system Cross Country 7 meetsTennis 8 days of competition Basketball 20 gamesTrack 8 meets Baseball 16 gamesGolf 8 days of competition

Master SchedulingThe athletic department works with other school programs (band, drama, office, etc.) when structuring schedules. In all cases, we try to avoid conflicts; but some seem to be inevitable. In cases of a band/choir conflict with athletics, the athletes will need to attend their band/choir function (no exceptions). Coaches will be aware of this and will make necessary adjustments for that. In addition, yearly functions like school Auction, Autumn fest, Homecoming, ACSI Convention, Senior trip, and finals become part of the master calendar for purposes of scheduling. KSHSAA instructs us on the beginning and ending dates of each season. All-inclusive, the master calendar takes priority over any one program and tries to balance all school programs evenly and as fair as possible. All sports scheduling is finalized through the Athletic Director. In some cases, a coach may structure their own schedule but it must be submitted to the AD for approval. The AD will then publish the schedule when finalized. Schedules for all sports are available on the athletic calendar posted on the Maranatha Christian Academy website. Parents are encouraged to subscribe to the calendars for the sports for which their children participate. This enables them to be notified immediately when there are changes or updates to the athletic schedules.

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Lettering/AwardsMaranatha Christian Academy awards both varsity and non-varsity team members a certificate of participation at the conclusion of the season. Others qualify for special honors and awards, which are described below.

Sports Awards NightsCoaches honor their teams individually during an award night that they schedule individually. This is a function, attended by family and friends, to thank those students who have participated on a sport team during the respective season of competition. The coach for that sport will coordinate scheduling of award night with the athletic director. The coach will then make sure all team members and families are informed and invited to attend the award ceremony.

Varsity “M” Chenille LetterThis is the letter given to varsity only participants whom have qualified based on number of halves, quarters, matches played, etc. A general rule of thumb is 50% or more of the time allotted for the varsity contest. Examples would include:

16 minutes of varsity basketball playing time per game 40 minutes of varsity soccer playing time per match 2 out of every 3 varsity volleyball games per match 5 of seven cross country meets/including regional

Coaches DiscretionA player on varsity, not having participated in 50% or more of the contests, may also letter at the recommendation of the head coach. This may include seniors, players suffering an injury, managers, etc. A student may receive only one chenille letter during their high school years.

Specific Sports PinA sport specific pin, to be worn on the chenillle letter, is given to every varsity lettermen for each sport after each season. A four-year varsity letterman in volleyball would have one chenille letter, one volleyball pin, three bars and four certificates of participation. .

Special AwardsEach team at the varsity and junior varsity levels are allowed to submit a list of four players to be recognized for receiving special awards. These awards are usually either trophies or plaques and represent those recognized as “most valuable”, “most improved”, “most inspirational”, “hardest worker”, etc. The specific coach giving out the awards determines actual printing on the award. Coaches are free to substitute other awards fitting for their specific sport. All awards must be submitted to the athletic director for approval at least 10 days prior to awards night. The AD will then take care of ordering and securing the awards for each coach.

Setting School RecordsCurrently high school record boards are on display for boys and girls basketball as well as boys and girls track. These boards are hanging in the gymnasium or in the secondary hallway. Records for boys and girls junior high track are maintained in the display case in the hallway outside the office. There are plans to research and construct record boards for other Maranatha sports in the near future. Coaches are encouraged to maintain accurate records to honor the worthy players setting new standardsof achievement. Each coach needs to supply athletic director with current school records for their sport and then update yearly with a copy given to the athletic director.

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TransportationEKCS/MCA provides bus transportation for high school athletic events providing drivers and buses are available. In situations when three or more teams are away on the same date, coaches and players may be asked to arrange car-pooling options with parents. Priority use of a bus will be determined by travel destination and number of team members needing transportation. Non Team members will not be allowed to ride the bus with the team. No student will be allowed to transport any other student to practice or games without prior written authorization of a parent or guardian. This written authorization must specify who a student may ride with and will be kept on file in the school office and a copy will be provided to the head coach of that sport.

To PracticesTransportation is provided for junior high teams practicing at Swarner Park and Okun Fieldhouse. Bus departs promptly at 3:15 then returns to the school. Parents are required to pick up their child after practice at the location of the practice. Teams practicing elsewhere are not provided transportation. This would include Shawnee Mission NW H.S., tennis courts, and golf courses.

To GamesTransportation is provided to most away athletic contests for HS team sports. All team members are required to ride the bus to and back during the trip. Exceptions allowed only with parent approval and prior Athletic Department approval. The bus will not let off any passengers at any stop other than the school when returning from an athletic event. JH athlete parents are responsible to get their children to those contests.

SupervisionSupervision of the team or teams on the bus is the responsibility of the coach or coaches associated with them. The bus driver is an authority over the team. All team members should respect the driver as that authority as well. Coaches are expected to ride the bus to and back with their respective teams. One coach may monitor both the JV and varsity teams if this has been worked out before hand. This would be the exception, not the rule.

Arriving at SiteCoaches must be with teams as they enter the buildings of other schools. Coaches should seek out the administrator on duty and get clarification regarding locker rooms, changing areas, etc. Out students must be monitored at all times and should never go off as individuals. Players are never allowed to walk to a store or ride somewhere with another student. They came together. They remain together. They leave together. If there is an instance where multiple restaurants will be used for eating, there must be at least 3 players together in any one restaurant. The oldest member of that group will be responsible to make sure the tables used for eating are cleaned up prior to the group leaving that establishment.

While at SiteIpods, radios, or anything along that line are not allowed at the game or match. The school sponsored athletic event is an extension of the school and the school day. All school rules that applied at school now also apply while away from school in these situations. Players sitting in the stands waiting to play the second or third game should use their time to cheer on the other Maranatha teams or do homework. Slouching in the stands with a headset on and playing is rude and inconsiderate behavior.

Leaving the SiteCoaches should assign a manager or team captains, the duties of inspecting a locker room after team members have left it. It should be inspected for articles of clothing left behind, including uniforms, as well as overall condition. Our goal is to leave the facility in better shape than it was when we arrived. All garbage needs to be

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removed or placed in a trash container whether in the locker room or out on the soccer field. Ankle tape is picked up, water bottles removed, toilets flushed, etc. Show school pride.

Loss of PrivilegeRiding the bus is a privilege and convenience for both the student and his/her parent. However, this privilege will be revoked if any student vandalizes, intentionally causes damage to, disobeys bus rules and regulations, shows lack of respect for the property and rights of others, or acts in any manor which could be interpreted as ungodly or unchristian like. This loss of privilege may cover a few days, the remainder of a sports season or the entire school year.

Drinks and FoodNo food or drink shall be consumed on the bus at any time without the approval by the head coach. This would also include gum and candy, and applies to transportation for sports, PE, field trips and other activity runs. Any liquids consumed must have a screw on top and be in plastic bottles. All trash must be disposed of in the proper trash containers that are on each bus.

Meals after gamesOccasionally teams may stop at fast food restaurants after a game, particularly on extended trips. All food and drinks must be consumed in the eating establishment. Nothing may be taken on the bus without first being approved by the head coach or bus driver.

Inside CleaningWith no food or drinks allowed on the bus, the bus floor should stay somewhat clean of paper and wrappings. However, the bus still needs to be swept and inspected after every trip. The driver is responsible for the final inspection and notes condition of bus in his log. The driver has the authority to request coaches to assign a representative or two to sweep and pick up the bus. The coach is responsible to see that this gets done. Garbage should be emptied in to the dumpsters as needed.

Outside CleaningArrangements have been made with Mid-West Bus Sales in Bonner Springs to clean the outside of our buses on a regular schedule. This will be monitored and become the responsibility of the Bus Coordinator.

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SPORTS GOALS

The following are the goals that we hope to accomplish in each level of our sports programs. These are the general goals with each coach having input as far as more specific goals. Please note that athletes must be faithful in attendance and effort at practices for a coach to allow them to participate.

Middle School (6th – 8th grades) – This program is geared toward teaching the basics of the sport. As the athletes advance in those basics, we want to review the basics and increase the athlete’s ability to perform them. This is just the beginning of organized athletics and we want them to be able to handle the basic fundamentals. We try at this level to give ample opportunity for experience. These athletes compete in the Metropolitan Private School League as well. They will be divided up into divisions by grade and within those divisions there are “A” and “B” levels of competition. The “A” division is a more competitive division; the “B” and “C” levels are a participation level where students participate in approximately half of all games or matches. Due to space and staff restrictions, there are tryouts for teams on this level. These will be done by the coaching staff and recommendations for other leagues or teams will be given.

Junior Varsity (9th – 11th grades) – This program was organized to give more exposure and experience to a great number of athletes who were not quite ready for the varsity level. Here we have the opportunity to enhance the basics and begin work on some of the finer skills of the sport to prepare them for the varsity level. Again, there will be tryouts for these teams and the coaching staff will determine those athletes based upon attitude, skill, and position needs; as well as prospects of being future varsity players.

Varsity (9th – 12th grades) – This is the final step in many years of preparation. This is the level where the basics are put to the final test along with some of the more difficult strategies and abilities being performed. These teams compete in the Crossroads Conference as well as the Kansas High School Activities Association.

We do not want to discourage athletes from participating and giving their best but we do want you, as parents, to realize that sometimes it is physically impossible to include everyone. We can assure you that every effort is made to work with those who have the desire to improve. We realize that a big step in improvement is experience and that is the reason that we offer the different levels and areas of competition. One of the most difficult parts of coaching is the tryout periods. We, as coaches, pray over these decisions and would appreciate your prayer and support during those times. The coaches look at the whole person when making these decisions including spiritual maturity, academics, attitude, skill, and position needs.

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SPECIFIC SPORT GUIDELINES

The following are the guidelines for each sport offered at Maranatha. Coaches may add additional guidelines for their sports. All KSHSAA information specific for each sport is available online at www.kshsaa.org and click on kshsaa handbook link. The earliest practice times for any sport will be 3:30 on any given weekday. Practice times will be coordinated through the coach and athletic director to avoid school conflicts. Practice times on Wednesday nights (if held) will end by 5:30 at the latest to encourage athletes to participate in their church activities on that evening. As stated earlier, no athlete will be allowed to practice or compete without having a physical form turned in to the coach or school office! No middle school athlete will be allowed under any circumstance to compete on a high school team! All practice schedules will be available on the school athletic calendar and will be posted before the start of the season.

Basketball:1. There will be a maximum of 12 players suiting up for games on any basketball squad.2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: middle school 6th - 8th graders, (these may be divided up into

“A” “B” and “C” teams for league purposes). Junior Varsity (Grades 9-11), Varsity (Grades 9-12). In some instances the coach may have a player(s) who will play on both Varsity/JV; these will be determined by roster needs and will be the top players from the lower level team moving up. They will be limited to 6 quarters per day. *Note – JV level emphasis will be 9th and 10th grades, 11th graders included in some exceptions.

3. There will be 2 manager/statisticians allowed for each team. There may also be a manager assigned for videotape purposes. All managers will be instructed by the coach and will keep charts, books, take care of uniforms, equipment, balls, etc. that the coaches feel are necessary.

4. The teams will dress and warm-up together. The coach will give instructions as to when the teams should be dressed and ready to play.

Bowling: (Girls and Boys compete in winter months)1. There will not be a limit as to the number of athletes on a given bowling team (although not all athletes

may be included in all matches). Coaches are encouraged to take minimum number of athletes for travel purposes.

2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Varsity (9th – 12th graders). 3. There will be a maximum of 2 managers allowed for each team. All managers will be instructed by the

coach of stats to keep, uniform care, and equipment care.

Cheerleading:The cheerleading program is considered an activity program at Maranatha Christian Academy. The schedule is modified for the squad members to balance both boys and girls basketball as well as perform for soccer matches and fall football games. The cheerleading advisor, in cooperation with the Athletic Director, will establish a schedule for the team. Eligibility requirements are the same as the other sports teams, including grades, forms, and physicals.1. There will be a maximum of 8 participants on a given squad. (unless approved by Ad or principal)2. Squads will be divided up in this manner: Middle School (6th - 8th graders only), Junior Varsity (9th – 11th

graders), and Varsity (9th – 12th graders).3. Cheerleading sponsors will inform squads of practice times on a monthly basis.4. Cheerleaders must be available for all practices and games to be eligible for lettering. 5. All other team guidelines and requirements will be in effect for cheerleaders.6. All music and routines performed by these groups needs to be approved by the Athletic Director or high

school principal prior to practicing or performing.

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Cross County/Track: (Boys & Girls Cross Country in the fall, Track in spring)1. There will not be a limit as to the number of athletes on a given track team (although not all athletes can

be included in all meets). Coaches are encouraged to take minimum number of athletes for travel purposes.

2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Middle School (6th - 8th graders only), and Varsity (9th – 12th graders).

3. There will be a maximum of 2 managers allowed for each team. All managers will be instructed by the coach of stats to keep, uniform care, and equipment care.

Football: 1. There will not be a limit as to the number of athletes on a given football team. Coaches are encouraged to

take minimum number of athletes for travel purposes.2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Middle School (7th-8th Graders, Varsity (9th – 12th graders). 3. There will be a maximum of 2 managers allowed for each team. All managers will be instructed by the

coach of stats to keep, uniform care, and equipment care.

Golf: (Girls in the fall, Boys in the spring)1. There will be no limits as to the number of athletes on a given golf team; (the coach will determine if they

are at a competition level or not). Maximum number of golfers that can compete in a match is 6.2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Middle School (6th - 8th graders only), and Varsity (9th – 12th

graders). 3. All teams will practice together after school. Coaches will inform athletes of practice and match times

prior to season beginning.4. Athletes must have their own set of golf clubs to compete.5. Athletes will be required to pay for green fees and practice fees in lieu of sport participation fee. Soccer: (boys play in the fall; girls play in the spring)1. There will be a maximum of 22 players traveling with the soccer teams. There may be instances where

more could be suited up for home games, but for traveling and tournament purposes the limit will be 22.2. The Middle School team will consist of 6th - 8th graders (these may be divided up into “A” and “B” teams

for league purposes). Junior Varsity team members will be made up of 9-11th grades; with the Varsity teams open for 9th-12th grades. In some instances the coach may have a player(s) who will play on both Varsity/JV or Junior High A/B teams. These will be determined by roster needs and will be the top players from the lower level team moving up. They will be limited to 3 halves per day.

3. There will be 2 manager/statisticians allowed for each team. There may also be a manager assigned for videotape purposes. All managers will be instructed by the coach as to duties and will keep charts, books, take care of uniforms, equipment, balls, etc. that the coaches feel are necessary.

4. The teams will dress and warm-up together. The coach will give instructions as to when the teams should be dressed and ready to play.

Tennis: (Girls in the fall, Boys in spring)1. There will not be a limit as to the number of athletes on a given tennis team (although not all athletes may

be included in all matches). Coaches are encouraged to take minimum number of athletes for travel purposes.

2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Middle School (6th - 8th graders only), and Varsity (9th – 12th graders).

3. There will be a maximum of 2 managers allowed for each team. All managers will be instructed by the coach of stats to keep, uniform care, and equipment care.

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Volleyball:1. There will be a maximum of 12 girls suiting up for any level game.2. Teams will be divided up in this manner: Middle School – 6th - 8th graders (these may be divided up into

“A” and “B” teams for league purposes, Junior Varsity (Grades 9-11), Varsity (Grades 9-12). In some instances the coach may have a player(s) who will play on both Varsity/JV; these will be determined by roster needs and will be the top players from the lower level team moving up. *Note – JV level emphasis will be 9th and 10th grades, 11th graders included in some exceptions.

3. There will be 2 manager/statisticians allowed for each team. There may also be a manager assigned for videotape purposes. All managers will be instructed by the coach and will keep charts, books, take care of uniforms, equipment, balls, etc. that the coaches feel are necessary.

4. The teams will dress and warm-up together. The coach will give instructions as to when the teams should be dressed and ready to play.

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Pursuing Victory with Honor Code of Conduct for Parents/GuardiansThe information listed below was copied with permission from Character Counts – pursuing victory with honor. It is the goal of Maranatha Christian Academy to follow the principles of character listed here. We want to use the athletic program as an opportunity for our student-athletes to learn to serve as Christ would serve through the avenues of wisdom, character, and service. This Code has been adopted by Maranatha Christian Academy and applies to all parents/guardians.

Athletic competition of interscholastic age children should be fun and should also be a significant part of a sound educational program. Everyone involved in sports programs has a duty to assure that their programs impart important life skills and promote the development of good character. Essential elements of character building are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and the six core ethical values: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship (the “Six Pillars of Character”). The highest potential of sports is achieved when all involved consciously Teach, Enforce, Advocate, and Model (T.E.A.M.) these values and are committed to the ideal of pursuing victory with honor. Parents/guardians of student-athletes can and should play an important role and their good faith efforts to honor the words and spirit of this code can dramatically improve the quality of a child’s sports experience.

TRUSTWORTHINESS Trustworthiness – Be worthy of trust in all you do! Integrity – Live up to high ideals of ethics and sportsmanship and encourage players to pursue victory

with honor. Do what’s right even when it’s unpopular or personally costly. Honesty – Live honorably. Don’t lie, cheat, steal or engage in any other dishonest conduct. Reliability – Fulfill commitments. Do what you say you will do. Loyalty – Be loyal to the school and team. Put the interests of the team above your child’s personal glory.

RESPECT Respect – Treat all people with respect at all times and require the same of your student-athletes. Class – Teach your child to live and play with class and be a good sport. He or she should be gracious in

victory and accept defeat with dignity, compliment extraordinary performance, and show sincere respect in pre- and post-game rituals.

Disrespectful Conduct – Don’t engage in disrespectful conduct of any sort including profanity, obscene gestures, offensive remarks of a sexual nature, trash-talking, taunting, boastful celebrations, or other actions that demean individuals or the sport.

Respect for Officials – Treat game officials with respect. Don’t complain or argue about calls or decisions during or after an athletic event.

RESPONSIBILITY Importance of Education – Support the goal of “being a student first.” Commit your child to earning a

diploma and getting the best possible education. Be honest with your child about the likelihood of getting an athletic scholarship or planning on a professional level. Reinforce the notion that many universities will not recruit student athletes who do not have a serious commitment to their education. Be the lead contact for college and university coaches in the recruiting process.

Role modeling – Remember, participation in sports is a privilege, not a right. Parents/guardians too should represent the school, coach and teammates with honor, on and off the court/field. Consistently exhibit good character and conduct yourself as a positive role model.

Self-Control – Exercise self-control. Don’t fight or show excessive displays of anger or frustration. Healthy Lifestyle – Promote to your child the avoidance of all illegal or unhealthy substances including

alcohol, tobacco, drugs and some over-the-counter nutritional supplements, as well as of unhealthy techniques to gain, lose or maintain weight.

Integrity of the game – Protect the integrity of the game. Don’t gamble or associate with gamblers. Sexual conduct – Sexual or romantic contact of any sort between students and adults involved with

interscholastic athletics is improper and strictly forbidden. Report misconduct to the proper authorities.

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FAIRNESS Fairness and Openness – Live up to high standards of fair play. Be open-minded, always willing to listen

and learn.CARING

Caring Environment – Consistently demonstrate concern for student-athletes as individuals and encourage them to look out for one another and think and act as a team.

CITIZENSHIP Spirit of the Rules – Honor the spirit and the letter of rules. Teach your children to avoid temptations to

gain competitive advantage through improper gamesmanship techniques that violate the highest traditions of sportsmanship.

I have read and understand the requirement of this Code of Conduct and acknowledge that I am expected to follow this code as long as I am a spectator of sports for Maranatha Christian Academy. I understand that I may be disciplined if I violate any of its provisions.

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

*Maranatha Christian Academy endorses the Pursuing victory with honor campaign’s Arizona Sports Summit Accord.

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Pursuing Victory with Honor Code of Conduct for Student-AthletesThe information listed below was copied with permission from Character Counts – pursuing victory with honor. It is the goal of Maranatha Christian Academy to follow the principles of character listed here. We want to use the athletic program as an opportunity for our student-athletes to learn to serve as Christ would serve through the avenues of wisdom, character, and service. This Code has been adopted by Maranatha Christian Academy and applies to all student-athletes.

Athletic competition of student-athletes should be fun and should also be a significant part of a sound educational program, embodying high standards of sportsmanship while developing good character and other important life skills. Essential elements of character building are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and the six core ethical values: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring, and good citizenship (the “Six Pillars of Character”). The highest potential of sports is achieved when coaches consciously Teach, Enforce, Advocate, and Model (T.E.A.M.) these values and are committed to the ideal of pursuing victory with honor. Good-faith efforts to honor the words and spirit of this Code will improve the quality of our programs and the well-being of all teammates.

TRUSTWORTHINESS Trustworthiness – Be worthy of trust in all you do. Integrity – Live up to high ideals of ethics and sportsmanship and always pursue victory with honor. Do

what’s right even when it’s unpopular or personally costly. Honesty – Live and compete honorably. Don’t lie, cheat, steal or engage in any other dishonest or

unsportsmanlike conduct. Plagiarism or cheating is not acceptable. Reliability – Fulfill commitments. Do what you say you will do. Be on time to practices and games. Loyalty – Be loyal to your school and team. Put the team above personal glory.

RESPECT Respect – Treat all people, including the teacher-coach, with respect at all times. Demonstrate an

appropriate demeanor that reflects self-control and an unwavering commitment to fair play. Class – Live and play with class. Be a good sport. Be gracious in victory and accept defeat with dignity.

Help fallen opponents, compliment extraordinary performance, and show sincere respect in pre-and post-game rituals.

Respect for Officials - Don’t engage in disrespectful conduct of any sort including profanity, obscene gestures, offensive remarks of a sexual nature, trash-talking, taunting, boastful celebrations, or other actions that demean individuals or the sport.

Respect for Officials – Treat game officials with respect. Don’t complain or argue about calls or decisions during or after an athletic event. Help youth sports organizations fill their need for qualified officials as a way to promote greater understanding and respect for the referee’s role.

RESPONSIBILITY Importance of Education – The primary responsibility of a student-athlete is academic achievement. Be a

student first, and commit to earning your diploma and getting the best education you can. Be honest with yourself about the likelihood of getting an athletic scholarship or playing on a professional level, and remember that many universities will not recruit student-athletes who do not have a serious commitment to their education, the ability to succeed academically or the character to represent their institution honorably. Not achieving passing grades will result in your suspension from the team until the deficiency is cured.

Role Modeling – Remember, participation in sports is a privilege, not a right, and you are expected to represent your school, coach and teammates with honor, on and off the field. Consistently exhibit good character and conduct yourself as a positive role model.

Self-Control – Exercise self-control. Don’t fight or show excessive displays of anger or frustration. Have the strength to overcome the temptation to retaliate.

Healthy lifestyle – Safeguard your health. Don’t use any illegal or unhealthy substances, including alcohol, tobacco, drugs and nutritional supplements, or engage in any unhealthy techniques to gain, lose,

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or maintain weight. Be informed about the health risks involved in the use of recreational and performance-enhancing drugs, tobacco and alcohol, as well as in eating disorders.

Integrity of the game – Protect the integrity of the game. Don’t gamble or associate with or deal with professional gamblers.

Sexual conduct – Sexual or romantic contact of any sort between student-athletes and adults involved in the athletic program is improper and strictly forbidden. Report misconduct to the proper authorities.

FAIRNESS Fairness and Openness – Live up to high standards of fair play. Be open-minded, always willing to listen

and learn.CARING

Concern for others – Demonstrate concern for others. Teammates – Help promote the well-being of teammates through positive counseling and encouragement

or by reporting any unhealthy or dangerous conduct to coaches.CITIZENSHIP

Playing by the Rules – Have a thorough knowledge of and abide by all applicable game and competition rules. Demonstrate and demand integrity.

Spirit of the Rules – Honor, observe, and support the spirit and the letter of rules. Avoid temptations to gain competitive advantage through improper gamesmanship techniques that violate the highest traditions of sportsmanship. Do not engage in or allow any conduct designed to evade the rules governing fair competition.

I have read and understand the requirement of this Code of Conduct and acknowledge that I am expected to follow this code as long as I am a student athlete/spectator of sports for Maranatha Christian Academy. I understand that I may be disciplined or removed from a team if I violate any of its provisions.

Student/Athlete Signature Date

*Maranatha Christian Academy endorses the Pursuing victory with honor campaign’s Arizona Sports Summit Accord.

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