Last Updated: July 2020

MIDWAY UNIVERSITYATHLETIC TRAINING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

ATHLETE PARTICIPATION CLEARANCEIt is the goal of the sports medicine staff and Midway University to provide the most efficient medical treatment to our student-athletes. In order for this to occur, several items must be completed prior to ANY athletic conditioning, practice or competition. An incomplete item will prevent athletic participation at Midway University and the coaching staff is expected to enforce this rule. Failure to do so can make the coaching staff legally and financially responsible for any medical attention required for the student-athlete. Each form is available on the Midway University Athletics website under “Athletic Training.”

MEDICAL HISTORY HEALTH FORM

A thorough medical history provides the sports medicine staff with pertinent family and individual medical problems, illnesses or medications. A completed history is necessary, particularly in the event of an emergency. This history is completed each year in conjunction with the physicals. It is the responsibility of the athlete to update the Athletic Trainer (AT) as needed about medications, illnesses, etc. throughout the school year to add to their file.

PHYSICAL

A thorough medical and orthopedic examination will be completed each year by a physician prior to participation. This physical must be completed after June of the upcoming school year. It will be the responsibility of the athlete to get these physicals done before their sport’s season and s/he will not be allowed to participate until s/he is cleared by a physician. Medical costs and transportation for these physicals are the responsibility of the athletes as well.

INSURANCE INFORMATION

Any student participating in Midway University athletics must have primary insurance before they can participate. A front-and-back copy of the athlete’s primary insurance card must be on file. If any insurance information changes throughout the year, the AT must be notified immediately and given a copy of the new insurance cards when necessary.

MEDICAL CONSENT FORM

Medical consent must be given by all students participating in Midway University Athletics.

FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY FORM

Prior to sport participation, all student-athletes and a parent/guardian must sign the Acknowledgement of Medical Financial Responsibility Form.

DRUG TESTING CONSENT FORM

All Midway University athletic teams will undergo random drug testing throughout the year and all student-athletes must consent to this prior to sport participation. All team members and support staff will be subject to random drug testing at any time.

CONCUSSION STATEMENT

All student-athletes must initial and sign the concussion statement stating they understand our concussion protocol and policies.

STUDENT-ATHLETE STATEMENT OF AUTHORIZATION

All student-athletes must sign a statement of authorization declaring that they understand sport participation requires an acceptance of certain risks and responsibilities.

ATHLETIC TRAINING COVERAGEATHLETIC TRAINING FACILITY COVERAGE

An athletic trainer will supervise the athletic training facility during the week days. In-season athletes will have priority during pre-practice/pre-game preparation, with off-season athletes on a first-come, first-served basis. All athletes must plan ample time to receive the treatments that they need in the event that the athletic training facility is busy.

HOME EVENT COVERAGE

An athletic trainer will cover the designated home intercollegiate events. No towels will be provided to the visiting team from the athletic training facility. Water and cups will be made available to the home and visiting teams by work-study students or athletes

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assigned by their coach. The staff will be available one hour prior to the team being on the court/field for pre-game warm-ups and at most one hour after the event. **Home IHSA events must be covered by an Emergency Medical Technician, so it is up to the AT, Athletic Director and coach if home equine events should be covered.

AWAY EVENT COVERAGE

The AT will provide a travel kit to each team and coaches will be responsible for the team kit. It is the teams’ responsibility to bring the kit to the athletic training facility to be re-stocked when necessary. In case of an emergency requiring an athlete to be taken to or admitted to the hospital, a Midway University representative should accompany and remain with the athlete until his/her release or until the arrival of a parent or guardian. In this case, the Midway University representative will need to contact the AT for student-athlete’s emergency and insurance information to relay to hospital staff. In the event that a coach would like the athletic trainer to travel to an away competition, they must be asked 5-7 days in advance and not have any conflicts with other teams. All travel expenses will be paid for from the team’s travel and food budget.

VISITING TEAM COVERAGE

The athletic training facility will be open to visiting teams approximately one hour before warm-ups. If more time is needed, 24-hour notification must be given in order for proper pre-arrangements to be made. If a certified athletic trainer or student AT is with the visiting team, the visiting trainer will be allowed to handle their injuries according to their protocol with our facilities at their disposal. If no certified AT travels with the team, Midway’s AT will attend to them. However, Midway University athletes will be our first priority. The visiting team should provide supplies and written instructions for any specific tape jobs or modality parameters. Emergency equipment will be provided by Midway University. Water, cups and ice will be made available to the visiting team by a designated member of the Midway University team or work-study students, but no towels will be provided.

NEUTRAL SITE COVERAGE

Unless requested by neutral site teams and accepted by the Athletic Director and certified AT, neutral site athletic training coverage will not be available. In the event that the neutral site teams would like athletic training coverage, it must be set up ahead of time and the host site teams will be charged by the hour.

HOUR RULE

Any event or practice must be communicated to the AT at least 24 hours before the scheduled event/practice to guarantee athletic training coverage. If a schedule change is not communicated to the AT at least 24 hours before event/practice, the AT has the right to not guarantee coverage. PREGNANCY POLICY

Per the NCAA Pregnant and Parenting Student-Athlete resources and model policies (the NAIA has no such resource), the health of the student-athlete and the pregnancy is of the utmost concern. With professional healthcare monitoring, high-level athletic activity is generally safe before 14 weeks into the pregnancy. The team physician and the student-athlete’s healthcare provider should work together to assist the student-athlete to safely continue her athletic participation as she wishes to do so.

BLOODBORNE PATHOGENSa. Midway University and the athletic training staff recognize and are aware of bloodborne pathogens and their

transmission in medical facilities and the athletic setting. Guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) are recognized and established in the athletic training facility. All certified athletic trainers, athletic training students and medical personnel will be educated in this field prior to hands-on involvement. Efforts will also be made to educate the coaching staff, athletic personnel and managers of Midway University in regard to bloodborne pathogens. Educational material will primarily focus on HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C.

b. All blood or other potentially infectious materials shall be handled as if contaminated by a blood-borne pathogen. Midway University Athletic Training staff will follow Universal Precautions as described by the Centers for Disease Control.

c. Engineering and clinical practice controls such as handwashing and general hygiene measures, regulated waste in biohazard bags and sharps containers, cleaning and management of contaminated equipment and instruments, personal protective equipment, cleaning of environmental and working surfaces, management of disposal or washing of contaminated laundry, and communication of hazards with visible labels, symbols, and colors, shall be used to eliminate or minimize exposure.

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d. In the event that a certified athletic trainer or athletic training student is unable to travel or cover a practice/competition, proper personal protective equipment will be provided in abundant quantities.

e. Any AT or athletic training student who has an exposure incident shall report the incident to their direct supervisors and follow the established protocols within those institutions. Written documentation of the route of exposure and the circumstances related to the incident are to be reported as soon as possible following the exposure (within 48 hours).

COMMUNICABLE DISEASESATs and athletic training students who are diagnosed with a communicable disease must adhere to the recommendations of their healthcare provider. They should not return to work/clinical experiences until they are cleared to do so by their healthcare provider. ATs must inform their employer and athletic training students must inform their Clinical Education Coordinator and the Preceptor of their illness and follow the established protocol.

HIV/AIDS IN ATHLETICS

The athletic training staff of Midway University has adopted and will adhere to the following guidelines concerning HIV-infected athletes:

1. The athletic training staff of Midway University will not discriminate against any HIV-infected athlete or coach.

2. The decision to disclose information related to HIV and AIDS is the privilege of that student-athlete only.

3. HIV infection alone is insufficient grounds to prohibit athletics competition. The decision to allow continued athletic participation of an HIV-infected athlete should be based on the athlete’s current health status and should be left to the discretion of the personal physician and, if cleared to play, the athlete.

4. Midway University does not require HIV testing of any student-athlete. Voluntary testing and/or counseling will be available for any student-athlete with the request.

5. An HIV-infected athlete will follow the same guidelines and requirements for eligibility to participate as used for all other student-athletes.

INCLEMENT WEATHERThe NAIA follows NCAA guidelines for lightning and thunder. At Midway University, it is the responsibility of the Athletic Trainer to monitor possible inclement weather and enforce the proper emergency policies set forth by the University. Coaches are also responsible for monitoring the weather as needed and communicating with the Athletic Trainer what the weather is like for outdoor practices.

THUNDER AND LIGHTNING

1. The Athletic Trainer, not the official or coach, has final say over play and return to play in inclement weather and is responsible for enforcing these rules. It is the responsibility of the coaching staff to enforce these rules if the Athletic Trainer is not on site.

2. In the event of thunder or lighting, all student-athletes and spectators will be asked to leave any outdoor playing field or court.

3. Guidelines suggest that all individuals must be in identified safe shelters by the time lightning moves within 6 miles of the outdoor activity.

4. If a lightning monitoring system is accessible, the AT will suspend all outdoor athletic activity when lightning moves within 10 miles away of site of event. At this time, AT will begin sending athletes and spectators to designated safe shelters, allowing ample time to reach safe shelters before lightning moves within 6 miles. If no lightning monitoring system is accessible, when lightning is seen or thunder is heard, the AT is advised to prepare to send individuals to the designated safe shelters. A flash-to-bang method will be used to determine when to go to safety. From the time that lightning is sighted, count the number of seconds to the sound of thunder. By 30 seconds (roughly 6 miles), everyone should already be at a safe shelter.

5. A safe location is a building that is frequently used. The building should have four solid walls, electrical and telephone wiring, and plumbing.

6. Activities may resume 30 minutes after the last sight or sound of lightning and thunder.

HEAT

1. Heat-related emergencies are also a concern to the sports medicine staff at Midway University. The athletic training staff will monitor weather situations and make suggestions to the coaching staff. Athletes must have access to fluids during the entire practice.

2. The AT staff will refer to National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) guidelines to determine heat conditions and make recommendations.

3. Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) and/or heat index will be used to determine heat conditions. Temperature and humidity will be re-checked frequently to monitor changes in WBGT and/or heat index. (see Table 5 on next page)

4. Once the WBGT reading reaches over 82.0˚F, the following guidelines will be followed:

5. This policy will be followed for all Midway practices and home events unless individual governing bodies recommend sports-specific guidelines.

6. If any athlete appears to be experiencing a heat-related illness, attempts will be made to cool their body temperature including cold water immersion, ice towels, and/or moving into a cooler, facility-controlled environment.

7. Once cooling attempts have been initiated then the AT staff will determine if the EAP needs to be activated.

COLD

1. A weather monitoring system or app will be used to determine cold weather conditions

2. AT staff will make recommendations to coaching staff as needed for extreme cold conditions during practices

3. For home events, any sports-specific guidelines from governing bodies for individual sports will be followed

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Below are the River States Conference guidelines for specific sports:

1. Policy for Baseball, Softball, Golf

a. Temperature of 30⁰F and below and/or wind chill (“feels like” temperature) of 25⁰F or below, contests will be rescheduled.

2. Procedure for Baseball, Softball, Golf

a. Prior to scheduled start time, the home AT or administrator will assess temperature conditions (according to the policy) to determine if contest/practice can be started.

b. Once the contest has begun, it is up to the officials to determine if playing conditions are unsafe.

c. Before game two of a DH (baseball/softball), if temp is below guideline, the AT or administrator will inform the umpire of the temperature policy. The umpire is the only one that decides game is not played. (This pertains to temp only--not field condition; if temperature is 32⁰F but umpire feels the field is unplayable, game is postponed or cancelled)

d. If a team still decides not to play, even if temp is above guideline and/or umpire says conditions are playable, that game can be considered for a forfeit.

3. Policy for Soccer, Cross Country, and Outdoor Track/Field

a. Temperature of 25⁰F and/or wind chill (“feels-like” temperature) below 20⁰F, allow athletes to cover as much exposed skin as possible; also provide opportunities for re-warming during the competition.

b. Temperature of 20⁰F and/or wind chill (“feels-like” temperature) below 15⁰F, contests/practices will be rescheduled

4. Procedure for Soccer, Cross Country, and Outdoor Track/Field

a. Prior to scheduled start time, the home AT or administrator will assess temperature conditions (according to the policy) to determine if contest/practice can be started

b. Once the contest has begun, it is up to the officials to determine if playing conditions are unsafe

5. Policy for Tennis

a. Temperature of 45⁰F and below and/or wind chill (“feels like” temperature) of 40⁰F or below, contests/practices will be rescheduled

6. Procedure for Tennis

a. Prior to scheduled start time, the home AT or administrator will assess temperature conditions (according to the policy) to determine if contest/practice can be started

b. In accordance with ITA policy, at least two hours of a match must be at 50⁰F or above.

c. Once the contest has begun, it is up to the officials or AT (if officials are not present) to determine if playing conditions are unsafe

TORNADO

In the event of a tornado watch or warning, all student-athletes will be asked to leave any outdoor playing field. Student-athletes should move to an indoor shelter immediately and follow necessary emergency protocols as established by Midway University. Practice or competitions may not resume until the watch or warning has been canceled.

In the case of any resistance from the coaches, officials, etc., the AT has the right to remove him/herself from danger of inclement weather and move into safety once coaches, student-athletes, and spectators have been warned of inclement weather and instructed to get to designated safe shelters.

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MEDICATIONS1. All medications are stored in a locked cabinet in a controlled environment in the athletic training facility. Access is limited

to the athletic training staff.

2. Over-the-counter medications (OTCs) are maintained in single-dose packets.

3. AT will only dispense single-dose packets to Midway University student-athletes, faculty, and staff over the age of 18.

4. If a minor or non-Midway athlete requests any medication, a note signed by a parent or certified AT must be shown to the Midway AT.

5. Student-athletes are responsible for having and keeping with them at all times any emergency medication (Epi-pens, inhalers, etc) they may need as prescribed by a physician.

DOCUMENTATION1. Patient information will be kept using the ATS electronic medical record system.

2. Injuries that affect athletic participation will be documented and updated on a daily basis.

3. Injury reports should be created as close to the time of injury as possible, preferably within 24 or 48 hours.

4. Patient records must be kept for at least 7 years after student-athlete leaves institution.

PROTOCOLSEVALUATIONS

1. Injury evaluations are an important part of the Athletic Training (AT) staff function. An injury/illness evaluation helps to determine the extent and nature of a health issue, necessary or recommended medical treatments and referrals, proper rehabilitation protocols, return to play, verification for medical insurance forms and payment, and documentation of the frequency of health issues. These items not only help the student-athlete, but also Midway University (Midway) and the Athletics program as a whole.

2. When a student-athlete is injured (non-life threatening) at Midway, the Head Athletic Trainer (Head AT) should be notified before any other action takes place. Obvious emergency and urgent injuries (i.e.; life-threatening injuries, major joint dislocations, fractures, open wounds requiring stitches, obvious concussion) are examples of exceptions. Otherwise, any hospital, physician or other medical visits made without prior notification to the Head AT will not be covered by Midway secondary payment; the financial responsibility will fall to the student-athlete in such cases.

3. If a student-athlete is injured during an away event and Midway medical personnel are not present, the certified AT or other medical coverage personnel of the host school should be notified for an evaluation. After the evaluation, the Midway Head AT should be notified upon return to campus to follow up on the initial evaluation. It is ultimately the responsibility of the student-athlete, not the coach or host AT, to notify us of any injury. If the Head AT is not properly notified, the student-athlete may be considered by Midway as unable to receive benefits from secondary payment.

MEDICAL REFERRALS

1. Except for emergency transportation and treatment, all medical referrals must have prior consult and approval from the Head AT. Medical services rendered prior to approval by the Head AT could become the sole responsibility of the student-athlete.

2. Student-athletes must attend all rehabilitation, treatment, AT follow-up and doctor appointments, or cancel and reschedule 24 hours prior to the visit. Failure to keep any medical appointments could release Midway University of all financial and legal responsibilities. While the athletics treatment staff will do its best to assist the student-athlete in finding transportation, we cannot provide transport, and will not pay for gas, food or mileage.

3. Midway University and its team physicians will make every effort to see student-athletes quickly for athletic injuries. Student-athletes may choose to see the physician of their choice; however, regardless of what physician will be providing medical care, all medical referrals and information must first be brought to the Head AT. Additionally, student-athletes

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must list the Head AT as someone with HIPAA release privileges with their medical provider(s). Further, student-athletes must provide the AT with the doctor’s name, address and phone number for consultation, as well as written documentation of the visit, including medical clearance within 24 hours of the visit. This information is to be given directly to the Head AT by the student-athlete and not through a coach or parent. Attempting to bypass the Head AT and seek medical care or sport participation clearance independently will not be tolerated and may result in loss of playing time or continued team membership.

MENTAL HEALTH REFERRAL

1. If a student-athlete is believed to be suffering with a mental health illness or undergoing a mental health crisis, they will be referred to the Midway University School Psychologist.

2. If a student-athlete is believed to be in imminent danger of serious harm to themselves or to others:

a. The Midway University Mental Health EAP will be activated.

b. Student-athlete will not be left alone.

c. Midway University Campus Security will be notified and if necessary, authorities will be notified as well.

d. A referral will be made to the Midway University School Psychologist, and if necessary.

e. A referral will be made to outside mental health professional when necessary and/or if Midway University School Psychologist is not reachable.

f. If any mental health illness or crisis is affecting athletic performance or participation, a plan will be developed on a case-by-case basis by Head AT, Mental Health Professional, Team Physician, Head Coach and student-athlete to determine clearance and when it is safe to return back to sport.

DENTAL REFERRALS

1. In the case of a dental injury emergency (as determined by covering AT), the student-athlete will be referred to a specified dentist with emergency services unless student-athlete has a personal emergency dentist they would prefer to be referred to.

2. If student-athlete has experienced a completely displaced tooth from its socket, the tooth will be rinsed off in a saline solution and AT will attempt to replace tooth within 5-10 minutes of initial injury. If it cannot be replaced, the tooth will be stored in a storage medium until referral to an emergency dentist can be made.

3. If the injury is not deemed an emergency, the referral to an appropriate dentist will be made the next upcoming business day.

RETURN TO PARTICIPATION

If a student-athlete becomes injured, he/she will be eligible to return to athletic participation once a complete evaluation by the Head AT has occurred, proper medical follow-up has been completed (ex: doctor visit, rehabilitation, etc.) and applicable functional return-to-play testing by the AT has been passed. THE HEAD AT HAS THE FINAL WORD REGARDING RETURN TO PLAY, unless stated otherwise by the Head AT. A student-athlete who participates in sport activity of any kind against the medical advice of the Head AT and/or the team physician(s) may be unable to receive benefits from Midway University secondary payment and can be withheld from athletic practice, competition and/or continued team membership at the discretion of the Head AT. Coaches shall not encourage or permit student-athletes to play against the medical advice of the Head AT.

INSURANCEPOLICY

1. In order to participate in intercollegiate athletics at Midway University, a student-athlete needs to be covered by a primary insurance carrier which covers athletic participation and injuries without exclusion or reasonable limitations. If a student-athlete does not have primary insurance coverage, the student-athlete will not be permitted to participate. When a student-athlete becomes injured, the athletic trainer provided by the college will evaluate him/ her and decide whether

or not a referral to a physician is necessary. If a referral is necessary, the athlete will file the claim with his/her insurance company (primary carrier). Midway University also carries a secondary accident policy for student-athletes through Borden Perlman Insurance. The maximum benefit is $25,000 and requires a $1,000 deductible for which students/families will be responsible. The NAIA is responsible for coverage of injuries exceeding $25,000. The IHSA will pay a maximum of $10,000 towards medical costs resulting from participation in an IHSA-sanctioned event.

2. Regardless of insurance plan type (HMO, PPO, etc.), it is also the student-athlete’s responsibility to be familiar with, understand and be responsible for following the proper procedures required by their plan in order for Midway secondary coverage to satisfactorily complete their portion of any claims. This is especially important if the plan requires pre-authorization for the student-athlete to be treated if, while living at Midway, he/she is out of his/her plan’s preferred network or service area.

3. If there is any change in a student-athlete’s insurance policy or plan, it is her responsibility to inform the Head AT and the Director of Human Resources immediately.

PRIMARY INSURANCE COVERAGE

1. Pre-existing Injury or Illness

a. The NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA discourages any college or university from providing coverage or paying bills incurred for expenses related to illnesses or conditions which are not sustained as the direct result of an accident in their intercollegiate sports program. (This includes pre-existing conditions and non-athletic injuries.) Midway follows this recommendation and will not provide secondary payment for pre-existing conditions.

2. Primary Insurance policy requirements

a. As a courtesy to student-athletes, Midway provides a secondary accident policy to supplement the student-athlete’s primary insurance plan. Student-athletes are required to have personal coverage which 1) covers athletic participation and injuries without exclusion or reasonable limitation and 2) carries no higher than a $2,000 annual deductible. (Note: Midway University recommends carrying no higher than a $1,000 deductible). A plan of this type will cover injuries sustained as a direct result of participating in the play or official team practice of intercollegiate sports, including sponsored events and authorized team travel.

b. The decision for Midway to submit claims for payment on all expenses incurred as a result of an athletic-related injury is determined by Midway and based upon whether or not proper procedures, including timely filing, were followed. As with any insurance company’s claims review process, the decision to pay on any claim is ultimately decided within the insurance company.

c. If a student-athlete has questions or needs additional information, he/she should contact the Head Athletic Trainer at 859.846.5806.

ATHLETIC INJURY SECONDARY INSURANCE PROCESS

1. Payment Process

a. At the time of medical treatment, the student-athlete is responsible for providing his/her current primary insurance information. Student-athletes should carry this card at all times.

b. Student-athletes will be given or may obtain a Provider Notice of Secondary Medical Coverage card that lists the Midway billing information. Student-athletes should also carry this card and are responsible for submitting it (for applicable injuries) when presenting their primary insurance card to EVERY treating provider.

c. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to notify EVERY provider that Midway will be providing secondary payment for injuries which are directly athletic related. If this is done at the time of medical treatment, the secondary payment claim will automatically be filed with Midway by the medical provider.

3. Claims Procedure

a. All medical bills student-athletes incur as the result of intercollegiate sport-related injuries will be sent directly to the student-athlete’s campus mailbox at Midway or to his/her permanent home address (as he/she designates), unless the University instructs a medical vendor otherwise. In no case should any medical bills be sent to the Athletic Director or AT. The student-athlete’s personal health insurance is always the primary payer.

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b. Student-athlete medical bills should be submitted first to the primary insurance provider. They will do one of two things:

i. Honor the claim and pay all, or a portion of the bills incurred.

ii. Not honor the claim and send a letter of denial.

c. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to submit medical charges for payment in a timely fashion, as needed by their primary insurance or the Head AT.

d. If a letter of denial, EOB, or any bills are received from the primary insurance provider or the healthcare provider, the student-athlete should send them to the Midway University Head AT who will get all information to the secondary insurance adjuster.

e. Midway University is not responsible for charges denied by primary insurer due to failure of the student-athlete and/or parents to provide timely documentation of student status. Charges denied for lack of student status verification are the responsibility of the student-athlete and/or family.

f. Midway University is not responsible for charges denied by primary insurer due to lack of medical necessity.

g. If Midway needs any additional information, student-athletes should provide it quickly so that the claim may be processed in the least amount of time possible. It is in the student-athlete’s best interest to have the claim settled promptly since all bills incurred will be in the student-athlete’s or parent’s name and, therefore, the student-athlete’s or parent’s responsibility.

DRUG AND ALCOHOL POLICY/TESTINGTOBACCO AND ALCOHOL USE

The use of alcohol, tobacco or tobacco products is not permitted by participants, managers, coaches, ATs, game administrators or officials in the playing areas during all NAIA-sanctioned competition and practices for such competition. The Midway coaching staff, event games committee, administrator or host site coordinator (as applicable) shall enforce this policy through the following steps:

1. On the first offense, the individual(s) shall receive an official warning.

2. A second offense will cause expulsion from the game, tournament or event.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELING

1. The purpose of any recommended substance use/abuse counseling is to provide assistance, direction and resources for student-athletes who need additional support as a result of non-negative (positive) tests, physician referral or self-addressed needs. This component seeks to provide appropriate follow-up, evaluation, counseling and rehabilitation of student-athletes testing positive while addressing their psychological, social and medical well-being.

2. Counseling referrals will be provided by trained specialists identified by the Head AT, Sports Medicine staff, Forward Edge staff, the Athletic Director and/or Midway Student Affairs. Referrals will originate with the Head AT or Midway Student Affairs and be implemented through one of the Midway team physicians, who shall be involved in developing an appropriate treatment plan. Counseling will be confidential.

DRUG TESTING POLICY

Tests will be conducted for mood-altering and performance-enhancing substances. Drug testing is mandatory for all student-athletes and other team members/Midway athletics representatives (ex: managers, mascots). As a condition for any student to be a member of an intercollegiate athletic team, the student-athlete must agree to participate annually in the Athletics Department program. Such monitoring is considered an extension of the ongoing physical examination of the student-athlete and is in the best interests of the student-athlete and Midway. All positive results are cumulative for the duration of the student-athlete’s career at Midway. Any student-athlete found guilty of selling or providing an illegal drug or illegally providing other drugs or alcohol to another person is subject to termination from the team and cancellation of all athletic-related financial aid. Forward Edge will administer all drug testing procedures. Forward Edge and the Midway Sports Medicine Team will be responsible for maintaining records on all student-athlete drug testing procedures, including positive results.

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TYPES OF TESTING

1. Random drug testing

a. Random drug testing of 10 percent of each athletics team will take place a minimum of once per semester. Timing of the testing will vary each semester. This student-athlete list will be randomly selected by Forward Edge staff members from each of the team rosters. All student-athletes are eligible for every test, whether in or out of their team’s competitive season.

2. Reasonable suspicion drug and alcohol testing

a. Student-athletes may be tested individually or as part of a regularly-scheduled test. This type of testing will be used for student-athletes who demonstrate symptoms or behaviors which are indicative of substance abuse. Should a student-athlete have a drug- or alcohol-induced incident that causes or results in undesirable behavior, s/he will be referred to the Head AT for testing arrangements to be made. The Head AT will then refer the student to the team physician, as deemed necessary.

3. Follow-up drug or alcohol testing

a. Student-athletes who test positive will be required to submit to follow-up drug or alcohol testing.

4. NAIA drug testing

a. Student-athletes may be drug tested while participating in any championship or NAIA sanctioned event.

RANDOM DRUG TESTING PROCEDURES

1. Zero advance notification will be the norm for all drug testing.

2. For random testing, Forward Edge will randomly choose 10 percent of each athletics team for testing. The Head AT and/or the Forward Edge director will call each student-athlete and instruct them when to report to the Student Center home locker room. The list of students will be brought with the collectors.

3. Failure to report for drug testing within the two hours following testing notification without speaking to the Head AT will constitute refusal and will be subject to disciplinary action (see first positive drug test under Sanctions). If a student cannot report for testing within the two-hour time frame, he/she is to call the Head AT for discussion and further instruction.

4. A photo ID is required for admission to the testing site. If the student does not have an ID, an athletic department designee may sign a form to verify student-athlete identity.

5. After signing in, the student-athlete will be required to complete testing consent forms and select a sealed, coded specimen cup. The coded specimen cup will follow accepted chain-of-custody standards and then remain in the student-athlete’s possession until the athlete has produced a useable specimen.

6. The student-athlete will need to remain in visual contact with the collector and/or athletic department designee once s/he has checked in to the testing site. The time to complete the required paperwork and provide a useable specimen is approximately 15 minutes. The student-athlete does have up to three hours to submit a useable specimen; however s/he may not leave the testing area until a specimen is produced. Inability to produce a specimen within three hours will be considered a refusal to test and the student-athlete will be subject to applicable sanctions.

7. The student-athlete has the option to obtain a hair test at the Lexington, KY Forward Edge location by noon on the same day of drug testing. If the student-athlete chooses to do so, they will be financially responsible for this test. The student-athlete must notify the Head AT two hours following testing notification if they will be obtaining a hair test. Failure to obtain a hair test before noon on testing day will be considered a refusal to test and the student-athlete will be subject to applicable sanctions.

POST DRUG TEST COLLECTION PROCEDURES

1. The Forward Edge collector(s) will check the roster of scheduled student-athletes and submit the names of student-athletes who did not report to the testing site to the Head AT.

2. The Forward Edge chain of custody will be followed concerning the sealed and coded specimens collected. Samples are transported to the clinical laboratory for analysis.

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3. Samples are turned over to laboratory personnel only after passing security and are signed for, preserving the chain of custody.

4. The samples are analyzed with the medical review officer after being notified of all results.

5. Following the verification of a positive result, the student-athlete will be notified of the outcome by the medical review officer and/or Head AT. All test results will be reported by Forward Edge to the Head AT and AD.

6. Once notified of a positive result, the student-athlete is permitted 72 hours to explain the positive result to the medical review officer at Forward Edge. If the student satisfactorily explains the presence of prescribed drugs in his/her system to the medical review officer, this will not be considered a reportable result. If the positive result is not satisfactorily explained, a meeting with the student, Head AT and AD will be arranged in as expedient a manner as possible.

SANCTIONS FOR POSITIVE DRUG TESTS

1. First Positive Drug Test

a. The student-athlete will be required to complete a number of NAIA myPlaybook courses that focus on drug prevention and the effect of drugs and alcohol on athletic performance. The student-athlete will not be able to return back to their sport until these courses have been completed and confirmed by the Head AT.

b. For the remainder of the academic year, the student-athlete could be subject to random drug testing at Forward Edge at any time. This will be done at the student’s expense.

c. If deemed necessary, the student-athlete will be referred to an evaluative counseling session and possible follow-up sessions at the student’s expense.

d. A record of the positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

e. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

2. Second positive drug test

a. If a second positive test occurs during the same or different academic year, the student-athlete will be kept out of the equivalent of 1/3 to 2/3 of a season’s competitive events.

b. The student-athlete will be required to complete a number of NAIA myPlaybook courses that focus on drug prevention and the effect of drugs and alcohol on athletic performance. The student-athlete will not be able to return back to their sport until these courses have been completed and confirmed by the Head AT.

c. For the remainder of the academic year, the student-athlete will be subject to random drug testing at Forward Edge at any time. This will be done at the student’s expense.

d. The student-athlete will be referred to and be required to attend a continuous counseling program for the remainder of the year at the student’s expense.

e. A record of the second positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

f. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

3. Third positive drug test

a. If a third positive test occurs, the student-athlete will be removed from the team.

b. The athletic scholarship will be removed on a pro-rated basis.

c. The student-athlete will be referred to and attend a continuous counseling program for the remainder of the academic year at the student’s expense.

d. The student will not be permitted to re-join the team.

ALCOHOL TESTING POLICY

In developing a policy regarding the consumption of alcohol by student-athletes, it is recognized that the social and competitive environment of the student-athlete has an influence on how the student-athlete perceives the role of alcohol. This policy should be viewed in the context that lawful, responsible consumption or abstinence is expected from the student-athlete and that

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consumption and/or possession of alcohol by minors in the state of Kentucky is illegal. Midway is designated as a dry campus. Student-athletes found in violation of the Midway Student Code regarding alcohol by the Student Affairs staff will receive athletic sanctions. Additionally, any member of the athletic staff who suspects a student-athlete to be under the influence of alcohol may refer the student to the Head AT for alcohol testing. If the student refuses to be tested, he/she will automatically receive the appropriate sanctions.

SANCTIONS FOR POSITIVE ALCOHOL USE

1. First Alcohol Offense

a. The student-athlete will provide five (5) hours of service to the Athletic Department under the supervision of an Athletic Department staff member.

b. The student-athlete may be referred to and required to attend an evaluative counseling session and possible follow-up sessions at the student’s expense.

c. A record of the positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

d. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

2. Second alcohol offense

a. In addition to the Student Affairs consequences and the first suspension, the student-athlete will be suspended from the next two (2) competitive events or 10 percent of a season’s events, whichever is less.

b. The student-athlete will provide five (5) hours of service to the Athletic Department under the supervision of an Athletic Department staff member.

c. The student-athlete may be referred to and required to attend an evaluative counseling session and possible follow-up sessions at the student’s expense.

d. A record of the positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

e. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

3. Third alcohol offense

a. The student-athlete will not compete in the equivalent of 1/3 of a season’s competitive events. This sanction begins immediately and will be carried over to the next season if necessary for compliance to be met.

b. The student-athlete will be referred to and be required to attend an evaluative counseling session and possible follow-up sessions at the student’s expense.

c. A record of the positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

d. The student-athlete will be expected to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

4. Fourth alcohol offense

a. The student-athlete will be kept out of the equivalent of 2/3 of a season’s competitive events.

b. The student-athlete will be referred to and required to attend a continuous counseling program for the remainder of the academic year at the student’s expense.

c. A record of the positive result will be kept in the student’s athletic file.

d. The student-athlete will be required to participate in team activities as determined by their coach and the AD.

5. Fifth alcohol offense

a. If a fifth offense is confirmed, the student-athlete will be removed from the team.

b. The athletic scholarship will be removed on a pro-rated basis.

c. The student will not be permitted to re-join the team.

MEDICAL EXCEPTIONS

The Athletic Department recognizes that some drugs tested in the drug screening panel are used for legitimate medical purposes. Accordingly, Midway does allow for exception if there is a documented medical history demonstrating need for regular use of the drug as well as documentation of the prescription information. Medical exceptions will be reviewed on an individual basis, but will not be granted unless previously mentioned supporting documentation is received by the medical review officer and/or Head AT. Once a student-athlete tests positive for a drug on the drugs of abuse panel, guidelines may be implemented regarding future use of a drug requiring advance notification and supporting contemporaneous documentation to the Forward Edge drug testing coordinator.

SAFE HAVEN POLICIES

1. Student-athletes are encouraged to voluntarily come forward to seek assistance with a drug- or alcohol- related problem without punitive sanctions. Any eligible student-athlete may refer him/herself for voluntary evaluation and counseling. Safe haven is meant as a way for students who need help to get help while supporting their ongoing success as a student and athlete. A student can request safe haven at any time during their athletic careers at Midway. However, safe haven can only be requested once during a student-athlete’s career, only prior to being informed that s/he has been selected for testing, and only by someone who has no prior drug offenses.

2. While in compliance with safe haven policies, a student-athlete will not be included in the list of students eligible for random testing for a period of three months. Students using safe haven may be selected for testing by the NAIA during championship events.

3. If a student-athlete fails to comply with their safe haven treatment plan, he/she will be removed from that program opportunity. The student-athlete will be subject to drug or alcohol testing during each institutional random selection for one year from the date of exiting safe haven.

SAFE HAVEN PROCEDURES

1. An athlete can be granted safe haven if s/he voluntarily comes forward to seek assistance with a drug- or alcohol-related problem any time before being informed that s/he has been selected for testing.

2. S/he may be tested immediately to determine the cause/severity of the problem and will be referred to evaluative and possibly continuous counseling. The results of this test will not count as a first offense.

3. The person will be removed from the random testing pool for three months.

4. The student-athlete will be required to complete a number of NAIA myPlaybook courses that focus on drug prevention and the effect of drugs and alcohol on athletic performance. The student-athlete will not be able to return back to their sport until these courses have been completed and confirmed by the Head AT.

5. Return to play will be dependent upon successful evaluative counseling and follow-up negative drug or alcohol screening(s) (or test that reveals use has not re-occurred). A sanction involving missing events will be determined on a case-by-case basis by the Head AT and the AD.

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