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Mount Saint Mary Academy Student Athletic Manual

Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto, RSM, Ed.S

Directress

Denise E. Materia Assistant Directress Director of Athletics

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Jody D’Amato Administrative Assistant

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Dana Ewen Athletic Trainer

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Robert Trautner Athletic Facilities Manager

Mount Saint Mary Academy

1645 Rt. 22 Watchung, NJ 07069-6587

School Phone (908)757-0108 Athletic Fax (908)756-0255

Athletic Schedule www.skylandconferencenj.org

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Athletic Student Handbook

Table of Contents Coaches by Season…………………………………………………………………………………………….….3

Alma Mater…………………………………………………………………………………………………….…4

Sports Offered…………………………………………………………………………………………………….5

Preface, Philosophy, Goals……………………………………………………………………………………….6

Attendance, Extra Help …………………………………………………………………………………...……...7

Half Days, Detention, Athletic Camps, Cancellations ….....................................................................................8

Captains, Changing for Practice, Clubs and Activities …………………….……………………..…….………..9

College Signing – National Letter of Intent ……………………………………………………………………...9

Communication, Dismissal from Team ………………………………………………….……………………...10

Alcohol, Drug Testing………………….………………………………………………………………………...11

Eligibility – NJSIAA – Academic Eligibility ……………………………………………………………………11-12

Equipment / Uniforms, Game Attire, Team Apparel………………………………………………………….....12-13

Hazing………………………………………………………………………………………………………….....13-14

Medical Issues, Fundraising, Music ….………………………………………………………………………….14-15

Insurance, Physical Education Exemption, Pick up post games & Practices…………………………………….16

Pictures, Schedule………………………………………………………………………………………………...16

Sportsmanship, Spectator Code, Transfers……………………………………………………………………….17-18

Transportation, Tryouts…………………………………………………………………………………………..19

Valuables/Security………………………………………………………………………………………………..20

Varsity Letters and Awards, MVP, Coaches Award, Scholar Athlete, Athlete of the Year .................…………21-22

Weight Room……………………………………………………………………………………………………..22

Appendix A – Concussion Policy………………………………………………………………………………...23-27

NJSIAA Steroid Testing Policy, Banned Drugs …………………..……………………………………………..28-31

NJSIAA Concussion Policy………………………………………………………………………………………32-33

Sudden Cardiac Death…………………………………………………………………………………………….34

School Physical…………………………………………………………………………………………………...35

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Coaches by Season

Fall

Cross Country Tennis Field Hockey

Andre Bridgett Kim Miller Varsity: Lauren Davis

Junior Varsity: TBA

Volleyball Soccer

Varsity: Darek Libucha Varsity: Head Coach: Philip Iuliano

Junior Varsity: Francesca Sengel Junior Varsity: Ryan Burke

Freshman: TBA

Winter

Basketball Swimming Indoor Track

Freshman: Marissa Maffei Megan Decker Andre Bridgett

Junior Varsity: Matthew Anzalone Assistant: Lauren Davis

Varsity: Ryan Shellhammer

Spring

Lacrosse Softball Track and Field

Varsity: Matthew Anzalone Varsity: Lauren Davis Andre Bridgett

Junior Varsity: TBA Junior Varsity: Jody D’Amato Assistant: Kim Miller

Meghan Harttigan

Golf

Ryan Shellhammer

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ALMA MATER

Mount Saint Mary, we do hail thee

Alma Mater, fond and true:

Loyal daughters, sing your praises,

Raise your colors, gold, red, and blue.

Glory, honor, steadfast loyalty,

Though we roam from shore to shore,

Mount Saint Mary, Alma Mater

Our hearts will love and praise thee evermore,

Mount Saint Mary, Alma Mater

Our hearts will love and praise thee evermore

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

Association, Independent Schools Athletic Association and the Skyland Conference. We offer a wide variety of sports each season as listed below:

FALL

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

CROSS COUNTRY X X X

FIELD HOCKEY X X

SOCCER X X

TENNIS X

VOLLEYBALL X X X

WINTER

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

BASKETBALL X X X

SWIMMING X

TRACK X X

SPRING

SPORT VARSITY JV FRESHMEN

LACROSSE X X

SOFTBALL X X

TRACK & FIELD X X X

GOLF X

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Preface Participation in Mount Athletics is not a right of all students but rather a privilege afforded to students that possess ability, positive attitude, cooperative spirit, and desire to represent the Mount Saint Mary Academy in a positive and respectful way.

The Athletic Department strives to offer a diverse program that will allow for all students willing to work hard and show commitment to find a place to compete.

Athletics has unique standards and expectations in the areas of academics, training, commitment, and sportsmanship that must be adhered to.

Our coaching staff is acutely aware of the philosophy of the Mount Athletic program as well as the values of Mount Saint Mary Academy. We strive to hire the most knowledgeable staff that is a fit for our school community. All coaches are responsible to uphold and follow the policies and procedures found in the Coaches’ Handbook. Our coaching staff tries to instill the values consistent with the philosophy of Mount Saint Mary Academy.

Philosophy The Athletic Department of Mount Saint Mary Academy challenges each athlete to develop her full

potential. In our Athletic program students have a forum to develop their skills and fine-tune their abilities. In doing so they will experience a sense of self-accomplishment knowing they have achieved their personal best. Athletes learn to work within a group, develop dedication to their teams, and make personal sacrifices for the common good.

Athletics, by nature, provide a significant opportunity to instill the qualities of personal integrity, honest and self-discipline. Competitive athletics demand dedication, excellence, determination, and courage. It takes courage to give 100% of self, have humility in victory and graciousness in defeat. The athlete puts forth the best of herself and, together with her team, represents the best of Mount Saint Mary Academy.

Goals

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

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

3. To develop in student athlete’s self-control, self-discipline, and a strong work ethic. 4. To provide student athletes the opportunity to exhibit good sportsmanship and respect for others

as a means of learning good citizenship. 5. To provide students the opportunity to celebrate successes and experience disappointment with

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

demonstrating the skills of cooperation and teamwork. 7. To provide student athletes with experiences that develop problem solving, reasoning, decision

making, and critical thinking skills.

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Attendance

Athletic Attendance Successful athletic programs depend on commitment and hard work. To that end Mount Saint Mary Academy has required that student athletes attend all practices and games. It is important that athletes understand that they are expected to be loyal to their team and live up to their commitments.

Any player that accumulates more than two absences other than school absences, from preseason, practices or games will be dismissed from the team. The request for an excused absence must be submitted in writing at least two weeks in advance to the athletic director and will be granted only in very unique and special situations. Any player that misses a game or practice may be subject to reduced playing time or loss of a starting position as determined by the coach, even if the absence is excused. Students absent due to illness or injury must bring a doctor’s note upon return. Every student planning to try out for a team must attend preseason. All fall sports begin on or about August 17th. Practices and games for all sports will be scheduled on days that the school is closed and throughout vacations. The winter athletic schedule will include activities during the Christmas and trimester breaks. Spring sports will have practices and games over Easter and Memorial Day vacations. No athlete may participate on a Varsity, Junior Varsity or Freshman team who is unable to attend practices or games over school vacations. If a student is absent from practice or games over a long weekend or a vacation, the student will be dismissed from the team. Absence for medical reasons requires a doctor’s note. This policy includes all school sponsored events. Individual coaches are not permitted to grant an exemption to this policy. A school sponsored day event may be excused at the discretion of the Athletic Director in consultation with the coach.

School Attendance Policy

Team members who are unable to participate due to injury or illness are expected to attend practices or games when present in school. Team members may not participate in athletics if they are absent from school. Athletes must be in school by 10:15 A.M. to be eligible to play. Student athletes arriving to school late will be subject to the disciplinary procedures outlined in the student handbook.

Game Attendance Team members must remain in attendance at both Varsity and Junior Varsity games at the discretion of the coach. Coaches must inform prospective team members of their policy prior to the season.

Extra Help Sessions Students may miss portions of practice time to attend academic extra help sessions or to make up tests or quizzes. The Athletic Department must have a pass from the teacher to give to the coach.

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Half Days

On half days the Student Center will be available to athletes waiting for practice. No team member may leave campus unless prior authorization is granted (senior privilege). Notarized permission slips are required. Students are encouraged to bring their own lunch. Food is available for purchase in the snack shack. School personnel are not responsible for supervising student athletes who are waiting for practice.

School Detention Detentions will be served on the date assigned regardless of the athletic schedule. It is our expectation that athletes will follow all school rules and avoid the conflict of detention. School detentions are not an excused absence from athletics.

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

participation in summer camps, it must be understood that all such activities are purely voluntary. • Parents and student athletes should be aware that participation in summer camp and leagues does

not in any way guarantee the player a position on any school team in the years following her participation in the camp or league.

• The School insurance policy, which covers student athletes during the school year, does not cover injuries incurred during summer camps or leagues.

Cancellation and Postponement of Practices and Games The Director of Athletics will inform the main office and have the information posted on skylandconference nj.com of all cancellations and postponements as soon as possible. Announcements will be made to students using the public address system when possible.

• If school is dismissed early for weather reasons all games and practices are considered canceled. • If snow causes the closing of school on a particular day, athletic events/practices may still be held

later in the day or evening. That decision will be made by the Director of Athletics in consultation with the Director of Facilities. Students/Parents will be notified by email and phone chain.

Outdoor practices may be canceled due to inclement weather at the coach’s discretion. Student athletes will be notified as soon as possible over the school’s public address system.

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

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Captains Captains are an integral part of all athletic teams. The selection of team captains is the responsibility of the coach. The coach may choose to select the team captains or allow the team to vote. All team members will be considered regardless of grade level. The criteria includes: leadership abilities, team dedication, a positive attitude and the ability to communicate with the coach and team. Team captains must get along with peers and be available for their captain responsibilities.

Expectations of a Team Captain:

• Communicate with your coach to keep him/her informed about team issues • Be positive. Positive thinking is contagious. • Be disciplined on and off the field. • Work to develop team unity. Treat all team members with respect.

Changing for Practice/Games All athletes must change for practice in the locker room or the large bathroom in Saint Joe’s adjacent to the School Store. Changing for practice in other areas of the school including hallways, parking lots, or gymnasium foyer is prohibited.

Clubs and Activities Athletic practices will begin at 3:30 to accommodate club participation. Athletes need to be dismissed at 3:15 to change before athletic practice. Two exceptions include Freshman Basketball which will begin at 3pm due to the scheduling of practices in the gymnasium and JV softball which requires transportation to an off-campus site.

Participation in school activities often creates considerable conflicts with athletics. It is important for students to discuss possible conflicts with the activity moderators and the Director of Athletics prior to committing to team participation. Students and parents should investigate whether an activity is going to conflict with athletics prior to accepting membership on a team.

College Signing – National Letter of Intent Mount Saint Mary Academy is proud to celebrate with Senior Athletes signing college Letters of Intent. If you would like to sign at the Mount please contact Denise Materia.

Some parameters for signing:

• Please contact Ms. Materia with 3 possible dates and times for the signing. Before 8am-9am generally works out well.

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• Parents, siblings, and outside coaches are welcome to attend. Student athletes are responsible for letting people know they are signing.

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

Communication A) Coaches

• Each coach will have an email distribution list including parents and student athletes so that all are aware of schedule changes and team related information.

• It is strongly recommended that parents encourage their daughters to have open communication with the coach. This generates growth and maturity and enables the coach to speak directly to the student athlete to answer questions or concerns.

• If a meeting between a coach and athlete does not solve the problem it is recommended that the parents call or email the coach for an appointment. Catching coaches following a contest is never appropriate.

B) Director of Athletics

If a meeting between the coach and parent proves to be unsatisfactory, the parent is asked to contact the Director of Athletics at (908)757-0108 x4516 or dmateria@mountsaintmary.org

Selection to a team, captain or varsity status, awards, and playing time are decisions made by the coaches. The Director of Athletics and the School Administration will not instruct the coaches whom to play or keep on the team. Appropriate meeting topics include:

• Concern about treatment of athletes, mentally or physically • Concerns of student athlete behavior • Lack of communication from coach.

Communication you should expect from the coach:

• Expectations the coach has for a student athlete • Locations and times of practice sessions and contests, as well as practice cancellations • Team requirements • Prompt reply to phone or email messages

Concussion Policy Please see Appendix A

Dismissal From Team If a student quits a team or is put off a team she is not eligible to participate on another Varsity or Junior Varsity team for a full year. Special considerations may be made for unique situations by the Athletic Director, in consultation with the Directress.

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Drug Testing / Use All athletes are subject to random drug testing for banned substances as outlined in the N.J.S.I.A.A. steroid testing policy.

Performance Enhancing Drugs It shall be considered a violation of the Sportsmanship Rule for any student-athlete to possess, ingest, or otherwise use any of the substances on the list of banned substances, without a written prescription by a fully-licensed physician, as recognized by the American Medical Association, to treat a medical condition. Any person who tests positive in an NJSIAA-administered test, or any person who refuses to provide a testing sample, or any person who reports his or her own violation, will immediately forfeit his or her eligibility to participate in NJSIAA competition for a period of one year from the date of the test. Any such person will also forfeit any individual honor earned while in violation. No person who tests positive, refuses to provide a test sample, or who reports his or her own violation will resume eligibility until he or she has undergone counseling and produced a negative test result.

The NJSIAA policy shall consist of this general prohibition, the NJSIAA Steroid Testing Procedures, the NJSIAA Steroid Testing Protocol, and the NJSIAA Banned Drug Classes.

Any athlete found to be using performance enhancing drugs will be subject to discipline as outlined in the Academy’s Student Handbook.

Alcohol / Tobacco In addition to the penalties stated in the student handbook, any student athlete that possesses or used tobacco, alcohol or any other illegal drug may be suspended from participation in athletics as determined by the Administration and Athletic Director. The student athlete will be required to attend practice and games for the length of the suspension but will not be permitted to participate.

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

• Age – An athlete becomes ineligible for high school athletics if she attains the age of nineteen prior to September 1 of any school year.

• Credits, as outlined in the Academic Section on page 2 • All athletes participating on a high school team must have an amateur status – an amateur athlete

is one who participates in athletes solely for the physical, mental, social, and educational benefits derived from such participation. The amateur athlete treats all athletic activities in which she participates as an avocational endeavor. One who takes or has taken pay, or has accepted the promise of pay, in any form, for participation in athletics or has directly or indirectly used her

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athletic skill for pay in any form shall not be considered an amateur and will not be eligible for high school interscholastic athletics in the State of New Jersey.

• Semester of Eligibility – no student shall be eligible for high school athletics after the expiration of eight consecutive semesters following her entrance into the 9th grade. A student becomes ineligible for high school athletics when the class in which she was originally enrolled has graduated.

• Pre-High School Students – Students in any 6th, 7th, or 8th grades of any school who play on 9th grade or so-called freshman or sophomore, junior varsity and varsity teams will be ineligible at the conclusion of eight consecutive semesters of such participation. Please notify the Athletic Director if you have played on a high school team prior to enrolling in High School.

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

a. To be eligible for athletic competition during the first semester of the 10th grade of higher, a pupil must have passed 27.5 credits [30 beginning with the Class of 2014] during the immediately preceding academic year

b. To be eligible for athletic competition during the second semester of the 9th grade or higher, a pupil must have passed 13.75 credits [15 beginning with the Class of 2014]

In addition, any student that has a failing grade on her report card or progress report will be put on probation until a note from her teachers (stating that her work has improved) is given to the athletic department.

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

purpose of maintaining accurate records. Any equipment or uniforms issued to athletes will be recorded on an inventory distribution form to be used by coaches for collection purposes at the conclusion of the season. All athletic equipment and uniforms issued to athletes must be returned to the coach cleaned and promptly at the conclusion of each season.

• Athletes will be held accountable for any lost, stolen, or damaged equipment and must pay the replacement charge for that item(s).

• School-issued equipment should be secured at all times. Do not leave game gear in unlocked lockers. Again, lost, stolen or damaged equipment is the responsibility of the student athlete and he/she will be charged the replacement cost.

• Issuing of equipment for out of season or summer use is prohibited unless specifically approved by the Athletic Director. This may only occur in cases involving “special expensive” equipment that athletes are not required to provide on their own (e.g. field hockey goalie equipment). This equipment may be rented and used for attendance at a camp.

• Every coach will have two announced uniform return days. A fee of twenty dollars per day will accessed for every school day that the uniform is not returned beyond the collection days.

• Uniform purchases are made on a rotating basis with each team getting new uniforms approximately every five years.

• The Mount does not purchase disposable items such as Under Armour, hats, socks, and bathing suits which may be required for team participation.

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Game Day Attire All athletes are expected to wear school issued/purchased or approved attire for games. This includes the uniform, warm-ups, shooting shirts and bathing suits. Game day wear must be in school colors: blue, gold, red, and white. Optional apparel designed and purchased by team is not considered game day attire

Team Apparel All purchases of apparel or any team items must be done through the Athletic Director / school. No student may collect monies for the purpose of purchasing items. All purchases will be made by the Director of Athletics. The school name may not be placed on any item without authorization. All apparel will have the full school name and be in the colors navy, red, and white. Students may not purchase spirit wear through pop up sites not run by the Mount, contact the athletic office if you are unsure. Items purchased through these sites or any way not directly from the school may not be worn pregame or as a part of the student uniform and will be subject to demerits.

Hazing “Hazing” refers to any activity expected of someone joining a group (or to maintain full status in a group) that humiliates, degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person's willingness to participate. Hazing is any intentional action taken, situation created, or any conduct or method of initiation into any school organization, club, or team which denies a person her individual rights or results in mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, or endangerment.

The following are some examples of hazing divided into three categories: subtle, harassment, and violent. It is impossible to list all possible hazing behaviors because many are context-specific. While this is not an all-inclusive list, it provides some common examples of hazing traditions.

A. SUBTLE HAZING: Behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between new members/rookies and other members of the group or team. Termed “subtle hazing” because these types of hazing are often taken-for-granted or accepted as “harmless” or meaningless. Subtle hazing typically involves activities or attitudes that breach reasonable standards of mutual respect and place new members/rookies on the receiving end of ridicule, embarrassment, and/or humiliation tactics. New members/rookies often feel the need to endure subtle hazing to feel like part of the group or team. (Some types of subtle hazing may also be considered harassment hazing).

Some Examples:

• Deception • Deprivation of privileges granted to other members • Requiring new members/rookies to perform duties not assigned to other members • Socially isolating new members/rookies • Name calling

B. HARASSMENT HAZING: Behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical discomfort in order to feel like part of the group. Harassment hazing confuses, frustrates, and causes undue stress for new members/rookies. (Some types of harassment hazing can also be considered violent hazing).

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Some Examples:

• Verbal abuse • Threats or implied threats • Asking new members to wear embarrassing or humiliating attire • Expecting new members/rookies to perform personal service to other members such as carrying

books

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

Some Examples:

• Forced or coerced alcohol or other drug consumption • Beating, paddling, or other forms of assault • Forced or coerced ingestion of vile substances or concoctions • Public nudity • Abductions/kidnaps • Exposure to cold weather or extreme heat without appropriate protection

Hazing in any form will not be tolerated and may result in suspension or expulsion from athletics, in addition to any penalties imposed in the Academy Student Handbook under Discipline and the Harassment Mutual Respect Policy. Mount Saint Mary Academy will contact the authorities for any and all unlawful acts.

Medical Issues / Injuries Daily Reporting and Recording of Injuries It is the student athletes’ responsibility to report to the ATC and Coach all athletic injuries associated with athletic participation immediately. When an ATC learns of such an injury, she will notify the appropriate Coach or Coaches. Similarly when a Coach learns of an injury he/she will notify the ATC. The ATC will make the necessary medical referrals as indicated.

Injury Communication It is the serious obligation of the athlete during her season to inform the athletic trainer if she has seen, or has an appointment to see, a physician or other healthcare professional for an injury or illness that will affect her ability to participate in athletics. To ensure consistency of injury care between the Mount Saint Mary Academy athletic department and outside healthcare providers, any student-athlete who sees a physician or other healthcare provider for a condition which does/may affect her participation in school sports must provide a note to our athletic trainer from their healthcare provider indicating:

• Injury/condition

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• Participation Status • Any additional recommendations, limitations, and/or specific instructions

Please make sure you give your doctor’s note directly to the athletic trainer. After you give your note to the athletic trainer, she will provide you with a pass to give to your coach. The pass will make your coach aware of your participation status. Notes are needed to excuse a student athlete from practice/games and to return to participation.

It is very important that an injured student athlete follows up with the athletic trainer the day following the injury and regularly as the injury progresses. The athletic trainer can facilitate healing of the injury via rehabilitative techniques and modalities including electric stim, ultrasound, therapeutic exercise, bracing and taping.

The athletic trainer and/or school nurse can require a student athlete to see a physician if they feel an injury/illness warrants it.

1. Athletic Training

Certified athletic trainers, also known as ATCs, are medical professionals who specialize in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses that occur in athletes and the physically active.

As your child’s athletic trainer, I ensure that she remains healthy and is able to participate in practices and games. My primary responsibilities are injury prevention, reduction of further injury by administering immediate care, development and implementation of rehabilitation programs and development of appropriate policies, including return-to-play.

2. Concussion Policy – Please see Appendix A

Money School-Wide Activities

FUNDRAISING

No student, parent, faculty/staff member may raise or collect money for any purpose without submitting a written request for approval to the Directress. Money may not be raised or collected without written authorization by the Directress.

Music All music played for events in the gym or on Angels of Victory Field will be provided by Academy personnel. Playlists will be compiled with input from all the team captains but will not be team specific. No team may play a CD, iPod, or other device on the playing area or through the audio system. This is for the enjoyment of all and to ensure appropriate content.

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Insurance Mount Saint Mary Academy has a supplemental school-time accident insurance policy. The policy is intended to provide supplemental accident medical insurance when accidental bodily injury is sustained by a student while participating in a school sponsored activity. The school insurance is supplemental and as such is excess to the primary insurance policy of the family. The purpose of the secondary insurance is to assist families with the out of pocket expenses often associated with accidental injuries, only after the claim has been processed through the families’ primary insurance.

Parents/students must notify the person responsible for the school activity immediately when an accident has occurred. Supplemental insurance forms can be obtained through the schools administrative offices. Claims will only be considered if made with 90 days of the incident.

Physical Education Exemption Physical Education is important to the educational experience at the Mount. We require all freshmen and sophomores to take Physical Education. Juniors and seniors participating in Mount Athletics may choose to take a study in the library during P.E. class only after the appropriate forms are completed with the Physical Education department. Any student enrolled in P.E. that does not participate due to a medical note is ineligible to participate in athletics.

Pick up post games and practices Coaches are required to wait a reasonable amount of time (15 minutes) for athletes to be picked up at the end of practices or games. For the safety of the students, all athletes not picked up will be asked to wait in the study center in the Main Building. Students waiting for late practices should also wait in the study center. On half days students will have lunch and wait in the student center in Saint Joe’s. The school staff is not responsible for supervising athletes waiting for rides.

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

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

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Sportsmanship At Mount Saint Mary Academy it is an expectation that our coaches, players, and fans will exhibit good sportsmanship at all times. Athletics provides us with the opportunity to show the best of ourselves in difficult situations. At the Mount we want to “honor the game” and learn to compete hard but with grace and humility. Our expectation is we will compete fiercely to win but in the end we want to win the game, fairly as it is supposed to be played.

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

• Opponents – show opponents the respect they deserve. Help them up after a collision. Always shake hands and congratulate them on a well-played game win or lose.

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

• Coaches – Always show respect for your coaches. If you have a question or concern, email the coach for a meeting.

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

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

Mount Saint Mary Academy takes sportsmanship very seriously. As with all aspects of the school, the Core Values of Respect, Integrity, Compassion, Justice, and Service are the cornerstone of the program.

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

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

• Any athlete who uses obscene gestures or profane or unduly provocative language or action towards officials, opponents, or spectators.

• Any athlete who intentionally incites participants or spectators to violent or abusive action • Any athlete who strikes or physically abuses an official, opposing coach, player, or spectator • In addition to the NJSIAA disciplinary action, any violations of our sportsmanship rule,

including, but not limited to disqualifications in the area of racial, ethnic, gender bias, will result in the NJSIAA contacting and working directly with the Conference and Community Agency (Human Rights/Civil Rights Group) which focuses in on this important aspect of social behavior as it relates to athletics.

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Any Student-Athlete or coach disqualified before, during or after an interscholastic event for unsportsmanlike and flagrant verbal or physical misconduct will be disqualified from the next two (2) regularly scheduled games/meets. Mount Saint Mary Academy Administration may add to this suspension period or impose disciplinary action as deemed appropriate.

Once a coach/player has been disqualified, NO appeals to the NJSIAA will be honored from the player, coach, official, or any other party.

A disqualified player or coach may not be present at any contest in that sport during the period of disqualification. Definition of not being present at the site means the disqualified player or coach is not to be present in the locker room, on the bus, on the sidelines, in the stands or site area before, during or after the game/meet.

Spectator Code The school community is strongly encouraged to attend and support Mount athletic events. To ensure a positive experience for all, we require all spectators to adhere to the following set of standards:

• Conform to all rules set forth by Mount Saint Mary Academy, the Skyland Conference, the Somerset County Athletic Association, the NJSIAA, and the NJISAA.

• Always demonstrate good sportsmanship • Refrain from use of profanity or obscenities • Accept the decisions of officials • Be considerate of injured players of both teams • Cheer for your team and not against opponents • Support your coaches and all members of the team • Refrain from criticizing or demeaning all athletes, coaches, officials, or fans • Respect the contest

Transfers A student athlete transferring from one secondary school to another, without a bona fide change of residence by that student’s parent or guardian, shall be ineligible to participate for a period of thirty (30) calendar days or one half of the maximum number of games allowed in the sport by NJSIAA rules (the ineligibility period) from the beginning of the regular schedule, whichever is less, in any sport in which the student has previously participated at the varsity level.

To prevent possible recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage, a Transfer Form must be executed by the two involved schools and filed with the NJSIAA before any interscholastic participation.

A student who transfers during the second half of a sports season, regardless of whether the transfer was the result of a bona fide change of residence, shall be ineligible to participate in any post-season championship competition at the new school.

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Transportation The Mount will provide transportation to and from athletic contests and off campus practice sites when school is in session. However, transportation may not be provided for weekend events.

• Any student who utilizes Mount transportation to an event but is not returning to the Mount on the bus must have a parent/guardian’s signature. Parents/guardian must fill out the appropriate form with the coach prior to leaving any off-campus site with the student athlete. The Mount will not provide transportation for any student athlete that does not adhere to this policy. Any student who leaves any athletic contest/practice without following the proper procedure is subject to disciplinary action that may include suspension from the team.

• Mount Saint Mary Academy is not responsible for students who leave practice/competition with anyone other than those designated by the parent/guardian.

• The Athletic Department and members of the coaching staff strongly encourage the use of Mount transportation to and from events when provided for safety reasons as well as team chemistry and camaraderie.

• Students may drive to away games only in emergency circumstances. However, the student must have a note from a parent/guardian approved by the Director of Athletics.

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

• Students may drive to offsite practice sites as long as the student has a note granting permission from a parent/guardian on file in the athletic office.

Tryouts In order to be eligible to try out for a team, all students must have a completed physical form, a hard copy of the Sudden Cardiac Death Brochure Acknowledgement and completed FamilyID. Physicals will be reviewed by the school physician prior to participation and may require an athlete to be seen by a specialists at the parent’s expense.

It is the responsibility of the coach through the tryout process, to form the most competitive team regardless of previous participation. Each student must try-out every year. Teams are selected on the basis of current performance, not past participation. Students are evaluated by ability not by seniority.

The athletic department endeavors to have a place for everyone to experience competition. However on occasion we are forced to limit the size of teams.

Junior Varsity Teams

Junior Varsity teams are developmental in nature; therefore, seniors (while they are eligible for the team), will not be selected over underclasswomen of similar ability.

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Dates for tryouts:

• Fall Sports – August 20, 2018 • Winter Sports –Swimming: November 12,2018; Basketball and Track November 24, 2018 • Spring Sports – March 11, 2019

Valuables/Security Student athletes are responsible for securing all valuables during practices and games. Please make sure your things are locked in a locker and not left out in the locker room or foyer of the gymnasium. Be cautious about bringing valuables to away contests where lockers will not be available.

Varsity Letters and Awards The athletic department recognizes all of its athletes at the Athletic Awards night held at the Pines Manor in May.

The awarding of varsity letters is at the discretion of the Head Coach. Players must be in attendance for ¾ of the game schedule or length of the season to be considered for a Varsity letter. This includes those who are injured or ill.

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

In the area of individual sports specifically Cross Country and Winter / Spring Track, the varsity and JV line is not as clearly defined due to the nature of participation.

Cross Country and Track letters will be awarded as follows:

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

• Receives a varsity medal in any competition • Competes in the NJSIAA Group Championship or is an alternate • Runs a 5k time faster than the 8th fastest time of the previous year. For the 2014 cross country

season the time would be 23:00.

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

• Receives a varsity medal in any competition • Scores as an individual or as part of a relay at any Championship meet • Runs a time in an event faster than the second fastest Mount runner did in the previous

year.

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• Qualify for the Winter Meet of Champions

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

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

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

28, 3200m - 12:20 Field Events

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

Letter Winners – Varsity

• First year – Red letter • Second year – Pin • Third year – Pin • Fourth year – Gold letter

Most Valuable Player

The Most Valuable Player is an award given to the best performing player on the team as determined by the coaching staff. This award can be given to any player on the varsity roster. In the event the coaches feel that two players are tied, two awards will be given.

Coach’s Award

The Coach’s Award is given to the player who demonstrates the most leadership, sportsmanship, and team spirit. She exemplifies what it means to be a Mount Athlete representing our philosophy and ideals. The Coach’s Award is given on each varsity team and is selected by the coaching staff.

Athlete of the Year

This award is given to a senior athlete that has shown exceptional athletic ability throughout her four years at the Mount. This award is not given every year but only in those instances when we have a truly deserving athlete.

Scholar Athlete

This award will be given to a senior student or several students to represent the Mount for the NJSIAA, Skyland Conference, and Independent Schools.

The award takes into consideration academic and athletic performance.

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• Must be in the first or second quintile of the class • GPA no less than 3.0 • Participated on a varsity sport for at least two years • Have shown outstanding school and community citizenship • Selection will begin with academics. When academic ability among students is close, athletic

participation and abilities will be the deciding factor.

Voting process for both Athlete of the Year and Scholar Athlete

Athletes can apply or be nominated by their coach.

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

A committee of faculty/coaches will review all applications. Each committee member gets one vote.

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

The fitness room includes five pieces of strength training that feature new technology utilizing pneumatic, or air powered, machines creating resistance training through air pressure.

The machines themselves are sleek and lightweight in design and provide resistance that begins at zero and goes up in one pound increments at the touch of a button. The pressurized air will provide resistance greater than we will ever need with some pieces having the capability of over 300 pounds.

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

The machines we have selected will cover the major muscle groups of the body. They include the leg extension, leg press, upper back, and chest press. We have also purchased a Functional Trainer which is a Cable Machine that is also pneumatic in design but can offer the user a total body workout of hundreds of exercises. Student athletes can also do sport-specific exercises utilizing the Functional Trainer.

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

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

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APPENDIX A

Mount Saint Mary Academy Concussion Management Policy

A concussion is a brain injury which has a complex physiological process which is induced by biomechanical forces (McCrory, Meeuwisse, Johnston, Aubry, Molloy & Cantu, 2009). It can occur with or without loss of consciousness. A concussion causes a disruption in normal neurological functioning (McCrory et al., 2009). Here, at Mount Saint Mary Academy (MSMA), we take pride in providing optimal health care to all students. Recognizing that each concussion injury is unique and individualized in nature, the following is our Concussion Policy that best encompasses how it will be handled should your daughter suffer a concussion. By managing each concussion injury individually it helps to ensure the safety of our students.

MSMA recognizes that concussions may occur outside the participation of a sport. Therefore acute management for such concussions may occur outside the scope of this document. However, all return to play decisions for any athlete to participate in Mount sports will be guided by this policy.

Signs and Symptoms

The Center for Disease Control states that most individuals recover fully and quickly following a concussion. However, others may have persistent symptoms. If an athlete has already sustained a concussion, they are more likely to have another one. The length of recovery could be prolonged in subsequent concussions. (http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/signs_symptoms.html, 2013)

Common symptoms seen in concussed athletes are:

• Not thinking clearly • Feeling slowed down • Difficulty concentrating • Memory loss or memory problems • Headache • Fuzzy or blurry vision • Nausea and vomiting (usually early on) • Dizziness • Sensitivity to light • Balance problems • Feeling tired • Irritability • Sadness or more emotional than usual • Nervousness or Anxiety • Sleeping less or more than usual • Trouble falling asleep

Baseline Testing

As part of the pre-participation requirements, all athletes that participate in any sport at MSMA will have a baseline computerized neuro-psychological test (ImPACT). Conducting a baseline assessment is necessary for proper management of these injuries. If an athlete sustains a

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concussion they will complete a post injury ImPACT test and scores will be compared to their baseline.

Education

During ImPACT baseline testing, all student athletes will be educated on how to recognize the symptoms of concussions. All coaches will be provided education on prevention of concussions and symptoms of these injuries. Handouts and other resources will be available for students and for coaches on concussions.

Reporting

All MSMA students participating in a sport must have an annual pre-participation physical performed by their own physician who must sign off that they have taken the state required Sudden Cardiac Death Module for the physical to be valid for high school athletics. ALL physicals will be reviewed by the School Physician. All prior medical history must be disclosed to ensure proper evaluation. All athletes must disclose an accurate concussion history during their exam and failure to give this information jeopardizes the safety of the individual.

Anyone that suspects an athlete has a concussion or notices any athlete suffering from any symptoms of a concussion, must report their concerns to the Athletic Trainer, Coach, School Nurse or Athletic Director. The Athletic Trainer will reach out to the student for further evaluation. If an athlete chooses to be seen by their private medical provider, they still would need to be evaluated by the Athletic Trainer for return to play guidelines and medical clearance.

All athletes are required to sign off in FamilyID where they acknowledge and accept responsibility for reporting their injuries to MSMA personnel. This includes any possible symptoms of concussions. Their signature will also acknowledge that they have been educated on concussion signs and symptoms and on MSMA’s Concussion Management Policy.

Concussion Protocol

All athletes that exhibit symptoms of a concussion will be immediately removed from participation by either a Coach or Athletic Trainer. If concussion is suspected, all athletes will remain out of play until further evaluation by a physician. All athletes have the option to be evaluated by their own medical provider but must return to the Athletic Trainer for return to play guidelines. When an athlete is cleared of the concussion, they must return with a written note signed and dated by their physician specifically stating they are cleared to begin return to play protocol.

Sideline Assessment

If the athlete is participating in a home event, an Athletic Trainer will conduct a sideline assessment of the injured athlete. If the athlete suffers a head injury at an away game, the coach and that home team’s athletic trainer should provide an injury report given to MSMA’s Athletic

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Trainer upon the next school day. The athlete should be encouraged to see their own medical provider or go to the emergency room if they feel an increase in concussion symptoms. If a concussion is suspected in a player, they will never be permitted to return to play the same day. They must be evaluated by a medical provider.

Treatment Plan

The treatment plans for athletes that sustain concussions are highly individualized and can vary depending on severity, symptoms, and mechanism of injury. Each case is planned individually and there is no pre-determined time frame for each concussion case. At any time during the treatment plan, it may be necessary for the athlete to be referred to an outside specialist for more comprehensive care.

The athlete will be placed on complete physical and some or all cognitive rest immediately following a concussion, depending on their physician’s evaluation. MSMA has a strict policy regarding practice or game attendance for a concussed athlete; no concussed athlete is to attend any practices, team meetings or games until cleared to begin the Return To Play Protocol. A concussed athlete should not be participating in any physical activity including Physical Education class.

Cognitive rest means athletes should limit any unnecessary cognitive activities such as any social media activity, texting, watching television, reading, talking on phone, using other electronics and socializing. If an athlete is placed on cognitive rest regarding school attendance or school work such as studying, class attendance, homework or test taking, a note stating so by their physician is required. A concussed athlete will need to be reassessed by a physician every 4 weeks maximum in order to ensure they are getting the care they need as well as to keep academic accommodations. A note stating what specific academic accommodations is required regarding the reassessment. Athletes will only be permitted to be allowed to begin the Return to Play protocol after they are taken off any academic accommodations and are completely symptom free. An athlete who still needs academic accommodations is not ready to begin physical activity. It will be up to the medical provider to determine when the athlete will have a repeat ImPACT test. If the athlete is having cognitive symptoms, the provider may decide to wait to have the athlete repeat an ImPACT.

When the athlete is feeling better and ready to be seen by a physician for clearance, the athlete will take the ImPACT post-injury test. The test will be reviewed and signed off by either the athlete’s private physician or the school physician and compared to their baseline scores. A re-evaluation by the medical provider will take place at this time. If the athlete is free from neurological symptoms, she will be instructed to return to classes and school work. Please note that if an athlete who has been cleared by a physician from concussion and still exhibits signs or symptoms to any staff or faculty member, they will be asked to have further evaluation to ensure their safety as well as their readiness to begin Return to Play Protocol.

If an athlete continues to be symptom free and has a normal medical exam, she can then progress to begin Return to Play protocol after the Athletic Trainer has received written medical clearance. If the athlete has any exacerbation of symptoms at any point during the Return to Play protocol, they will be instructed to cease exercise immediately and to follow up with their physician. They should not engage in any other physical activity until seen by a medical provider.

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Table 1. provides Zurich’s graduated Return to Play protocol that the concussed athlete will go through once medically cleared to do so.

McCrory P, Meeuwisse WH, Aubry M, et al. Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 4th International Conference on Concussion in Sport held in Zurich, November 2012. Br J Sports Med. 2013;47(5):250–258.

Multiple Concussions

If an athlete has sustained multiple concussions in her medical history, it is imperative that the athlete be treated and cleared by a concussion specialist. MSMA’s school physician and the Athletic Trainer have the full authority to determine whether an athlete can return to play in athletics following a concussion or in the event that the individual has sustained multiple concussions with neurological sequelae.

The uncertain and long term consequences of multiple concussions will be explained in detail to the athlete and her parent/guardian. If an athlete would still like to participate in a sport at MSMA after having multiple concussions, and she is medically cleared, the athlete and a parent/guardian must sign an acknowledgement statement about the risks of multiple concussions. This statement would include that she and a parent/guardian was educated about the possible and unknown long term consequences of multiple concussions while participating in sports. This statement will be kept in her medical record.

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CONCUSSION INFORMATION SIGN OFF Mount Saint Mary Academy requires all athletes and parents/guardians engaging in school athletics to sign off where they acknowledge, understand, and accept the responsibility for reporting any/all signs and symptoms of a concussion to their coach or MSMA Athletic Trainer. A concussion is described as a violent shaking or jarring action to the brain, usually as a result of impact with a person, object or ground. A concussive head injury can result in acute clinical symptoms and typically results in a functional disturbance and/or impairment. A concussion may or may not involve loss of consciousness, but physical, cognitive and emotional symptoms may be present. If you have suffered a head injury during competition or practice, the symptoms of a concussion can present themselves or worsen as time passes. Here are some of the signs and symptoms that may indicate you have sustained a concussion:

• If your mild headache intensifies (gets worse) • You have developed a headache and it becomes more intense in time • Restless, irritable, or drastic change in emotional control • Mental confusion or disorientation that gets progressively worse • Memory loss or memory problems • Feeling “dazed” or “in a fog” • Loss of appetite • Drowsiness, lethargy or increased sleepiness • Unequal pupils or dilated pupils • Blurred vision • Sensitivity to light • Sensitivity to noise • Ringing in the ears • Bleeding and/or clear fluid from nose or ears • Persistent or increasing nausea and/or vomiting • Change in breathing patterns • Dizziness or unsteadiness when walking or standing • Difficulty speaking or slurring of speech

I agree to inform my Coach and/or Athletic Trainer when I have experienced signs and symptoms of a concussion while participating in athletics.

My electronic signature in Family ID indicates that I have read this entire document, understand it completely and agree to be bound by its terms.

References Guskiewicz, K., Bruce, S., Cantu, M., Ferrara, M., Kelly, J., McCrea, M., Putukian, M., &

Valovich, T. (2004). National Athletic Trainers’ Association positions statement: management of sport-related concussion. Journal of athletic training. 39 (3). 280-297.

McCory, P., Meeuwisse, W., Johnston, K., Dvorak, J., Molloy, M., & Cantu, R. (2009). Consensus statement on concussion in sport- the 3rd International Conference on Concussion in Sport held in Zurich, November, 2008. South African Journal of Sports Medicine, 21(2). 36-42.

McCrea, H., Perrine, K, Niogi, S, & Hartl (2012) Concussion in sports. Sports Health : A Multidisciplinary approach. Retrieved from doi:10.1177/1941738112462203.

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Mount Saint Mary Academy

Multiple Concussion Acknowledgement Statement On this date, I (student athlete’s name)_______________________________ had a meeting with a medical provider (name)_____________________________ to discuss my pertinent medical history of multiple sustained concussions. It was explained in detail that multiple concussions may have a risk of unknown long term neurological consequences. Notwithstanding the fact that I have been medically cleared to return to active play . It was explained to me that sustaining another concussion will increase my risk of long term neurological complications that may be permanently debilitating.

Despite this explanation and education, I choose participate in ____________________ (name of sport) at Mount Saint Mary Academy. I voluntarily agree to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Mount Saint Mary Academy, its officers, employees, agents and their successors and assigns from any and all costs, claims, damages or expenses, including attorney fees, arising from any loss or personal injury that might result from participating in sports with a medical history of multiple concussions.

Name ____________________________________________ Signature___________________________

Medical Provider’s Name_____________________________ Signature___________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Name_____________________________ Signature___________________________

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NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY AND PARENT/GUARDIAN CONCUSSION POLICY

ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORMS NJSIAA STEROID TESTING POLICY

CONSENT TO RANDOM TESTING

In Executive Order 72, issued December 20, 2005, Governor Richard Codey directed the New Jersey Department of Education to work in conjunction with the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) to develop and implement a program of random testing for steroids, of teams and individuals qualifying for championship games.

Beginning in the Fall, 2006 sports season, any student-athlete who possesses, distributes, ingests or otherwise uses any of the banned substances on the attached page, without written prescription by a fully-licensed physician, as recognized by the American Medical Association, to treat a medical condition, violates the NJSIAA’s sportsmanship rule, and is subject to NJSIAA penalties, including ineligibility from competition. The NJSIAA will test certain randomly selected individuals and teams that qualify for a state championship tournament or state championship competition for banned substances. The results of all tests shall be considered confidential and shall only be disclosed to the student, his or her parents and his or her school. No student may participate in NJSIAA competition unless the student and the student’s parent/guardian consent to random testing.

2018-2019 NJSIAA Banned Drugs ( Update from NJSIAA Site)

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IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH THE APPROPRIATE OR DESIGNATED ATHLETICS STAFF BEFORE USING ANY SUBSTANCE The NJSIAA bans the following classes of drugs: Stimulants

Anabolic Agents

Alcohol and Beta Blockers

Diuretics and Other Masking Agents

Street Drugs

Peptide Hormones and Analogues

Anti-estrogens

Beta-2 Agonists Note: Any substance chemically related to these classes is also banned. THE INSTITUTION AND THE STUDENT-ATHLETE SHALL BE HELD ACCOUNTABLE FOR ALL DRUGS WITHIN THE BANNED DRUG CLASS REGARDLESS OF WHETHER THEY HAVE BEEN SPECIFICALLY IDENTIFIED. Drugs and Procedures Subject to Restrictions Blood Doping

Gene Doping

Local Anesthetics (under some conditions)

Manipulation of Urine Samples

Beta-2 Agonists permitted only by prescription and inhalation NJSIAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product with the appropriate or designated athletics department staff! Dietary supplements, including vitamins and minerals, are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test result. Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility using dietary supplements.

Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs not listed on the label.

Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk. NOTE TO STUDENT-ATHLETES: THERE IS NO COMPLETE LIST OF BANNED SUBSTANCES. DO NOT RELY ON THIS LIST TO RULE OUT ANY SUPPLEMENT INGREDIENT. CHECK WITH YOUR ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT STAFF PRIOR TO USING A SUPPLEMENT. REMINDER: ANY DIETARY SUPPLEMENT INGREDIENT IS TAKEN AT THE STUDENT’S OWN RISK. Some Examples of NJSIAA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class Do NOT RELY ON THIS LIST TO RULE OUT ANY LABEL INGREDIENT. Stimulants Amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine; methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine (bitter orange); methylhexaneamine, “bath salts” (mephedrone); Octopamine; DMBA; etc. exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned. Anabolic Agents (sometimes listed as a chemical formula, such as 3,6,17-androstenetrione) Androstenedione; boldenone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto); epi-trenbolone; etiocholanolone; methasterone; methandienone; nandrolone; norandrostenedione; ostarine, stanozolol; stenbolone; testosterone; trenbolone; SARMS (ostarine); etc. Alcohol and Beta Blockers

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Alcohol; atenolol; metoprolol; nadolo; pindolol; propranolol; timolol; etc. Diuretics (water pills) and Other Masking Agents Bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene; trichlormethiazide; etc. Street Drugs Heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); synthetic cannabinoids (eg. spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH- 073) Peptide Hormones and Analogues Growth hormone (hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc. Anti-Estrogens Anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; ATD, clomiphene; SERMS (nolvadex); etc. Beta-2 Agonists Bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; higenamine; norcuclaurine; etc. ANY SUBSTANCE THAT IS CHEMICALLY RELATED TO THE CLASS, EVEN IF IT IS NOT LISTED AS AN EXAMPLE, IS ALSO BANNED! IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK WITH THE APPROPRIATE OR DESIGNATED ATHLETICS STAFF BEFORE USING ANY SUBSTANCE.

NJSIAA PARENT/GUARDIAN

CONCUSSION POLICY ACKNOWLEDGMENT FORM

In order to help protect the student athletes of New Jersey, the NJSIAA has mandated that all athletes, parents/guardians and coaches follow the NJSIAA Concussion Policy.

A concussion is a brain injury and all brain injuries are serious. They may be caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a blow to another part of the body with the force transmitted to the head. They can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. Even though most concussions are mild, all concussions are potentially serious and may result in complications including prolonged brain damage and death if not recognized and managed properly. In other words, even a “ding” or bump on the head could be serious. You can’t see a concussion and most sports concussions occur without loss of consciousness. Signs and symptoms of concussion may show up right after the injury or can take hours or days to fully appear. If your child/player reports any symptoms of concussion, or if you notice the symptoms or signs of concussion yourself, seek medical attention right away.

Symptoms may include one or more of the following: 1. Headache 2. Nausea/vomiting 3. Balance problems or dizziness

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4. Double vision or changes in vision 5. Sensitivity to light or sound/noise 6. Feeling of sluggishness or fogginess 7. Difficulty with concentration, short-term memory, and/or confusion 8. Irritability or agitation 9. Depression or anxiety 10. Sleep Disturbance

Signs observed by teammates, parents and coaches include: 1. Appears dazed, stunned, or disoriented 2. Forgets plays or demonstrates short-term memory difficulties (e.g. is unsure of the game, score,

or opponent) 3. Exhibits difficulties with balance or coordination 4. Answers questions slowly or inaccurately 5. Loses consciousness 6. Demonstrates behavior or personality changes 7. Is unable to recall events prior to or after the hit

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

Athletes with the signs and symptoms of concussion should be removed from play immediately. Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves the young athlete especially vulnerable to greater injury. There is an increased risk of significant damage from a concussion for a period of time after that concussion occurs, particularly if the athlete suffers another concussion before completely recovering from the first one. This can lead to prolonged recovery, or even to severe brain swelling (second impact syndrome) with devastating and even fatal consequences. It is well known that adolescent or teenage athletes will often under report symptoms of injuries. And concussions are no different. As a result, education of administrators, coaches, parents and students is the key for student-athletes’ safety.

If you think your child/player has suffered a concussion

Any athlete even suspected of suffering a concussion should be removed from the game or practice immediately. No athlete may return to activity after an apparent head injury or concussion, regardless of how mild it seems or how quickly symptoms clear. Close observation of the athlete should continue for several hours.

An athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury in a practice or game shall be removed from competition at that time and may not return to play until the athlete receives written clearance from a physician trained in the evaluation and management of concussions that states the student athlete is asymptomatic at rest and may begin the graduated return to play protocol. The graduated return to play protocol is a series of six steps, the first being a completion of a full day of normal cognitive activities without re-emergence of symptoms.

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

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

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

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

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

You should also inform your child’s Coach, Athletic Trainer (ATC), and/or Athletic Director, if you think that your child/player may have a concussion. And when in doubt, the athlete sits out.

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

http://www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports

http://www.nfhslearn.com

SUDDEN CARDIAC DEATH BROCHURE

The incidence of sudden cardiac death (SCD) among student athletes, often due to undetected heart conditions, has caused great concern throughout New Jersey. In response to this serious problem and in an effort to increase awareness and emphasize prevention of possible sudden death of young athletes, the Legislature passed and the Governor signed P. L. 2009, Chapter 260. The law established the New Jersey Student Athlete Cardiac Screening Task Force. The Task Force has completed the portion of its mandate to develop an informational brochure about sudden cardiac death for distribution to all districts in the State. Attached for your use is an electronic version of the brochure. Also, the brochure will be available on the Department’s website:

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

School Athletic Physical

The School Athletic Physical must also be returned for participation in Athletics. For Fall sports, the physical must be completed from 6/15/18 to 7/29/18. The Physical form can be found in the “Forms” section online. Athletes are required to have a physical every 365 days, all physicals are subject to approval by the school doctor. The following forms will be collected digitally via www.familyid.com before 8/5/18:

- Athletic Policies Acknowledgement - Consent to Steroid Testing/NJSIAA Concussion

Policy Acknowledgement - Health Update (required for each season when the

Physical is over 90 days old) - Weight Room Permission Slip - Opioid Acknowledgement

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The Athletic Physical must be filled out and signed by a physician and delivered by hand or FedEx to the main office by 7/29/18 for fall athletes.

Revised 6-18