2020-21 Student Athlete Handbook

Ohio Christian University Intercollegiate Athletics

Student-Athlete Handbook

2020-21

(Updated July 2020)

Table of Contents

Welcome Letter ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 3

Highlights …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………. 4

Staff Directory ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...… 5

Ohio Christian University Mission Statement ……………………………………………………………………………… 6

Ohio Christian University Athletics Mission Statement ………………………………………………………….……. 6

National Association and Conference Affiliation ……………………………………………………………………….… 7

Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) ……………………………………………………………………………… 9

Eligibility Requirements ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 10

Student Athlete Code of Conduct …………………………………………………………………………………………..….. 14

Drug Testing Protocol ……………………………………………………………………………………………………….…….. 15

Athletic Training ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………….. 19

Letter of Intent (LOI) Policy ……………………………………………………..……………………………………………… 21

Hazing …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. 24

Social Media …………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……… 24

Non-Discrimination Policy ……………….……………………………………………………………………………………… 26

Grievance Procedures ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………… 26

Discretion Statement ……………………………………………………………………………………………………………...…27

Forms ………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………28

Student-Athlete Acknowledgment Page ……………………………………………………………………………..…….. 29

Dear Student-Athlete,

On behalf of Ohio Christian University and our entire Athletic Staff, welcome to Ohio Christian University Athletics!

We could not be more excited to have you join our family at Ohio Christian University, an institution that is dedicated to living for Christ in all aspects of our lives.

As you begin this next journey, we look forward to helping you grow spiritually, academically, and athletically as you take the next step towards your chosen field of endeavor. We view athletics as a tool that can be used to help develop the next generation of servant leaders that will go on to impact the world for Christ.

It has been a blessing to see Ohio Christian make the transition into the NAIA, a process which began in 2015. Our success within both the River States Conference and the NAIA continues to grow year by year, leading to a promising future for Trailblazer Athletics.

God has equipped each of us with talents and abilities, and it is our responsibility to use those gifts for His glory. We pray that as your go through your time at Ohio Christian you will take full advantage of the opportunity and leave in four years better than when you came.

The following Student-Athlete Handbook provides both the student-athlete and our staff with the guidelines and expectations everyone will be expected to follow. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the guidelines so you will be able to comply. This document will play a key role in assuring we can each chase excellence as a family!

GO TRAILBLAZERS!

David Bireline

Intercollegiate Athletic Director

2019-20 Academic and Athletic Highlights

• 41 NAIA Scholar Athletes • 17 NAIA Scholar Teams • Women’s Basketball 2020 NAIA DII Tournament Qualifier • Service Projects/Initiatives by each athletic program • Women’s Soccer RSC Quarterfinalist

Staff Directory

Name Title Email David Bireline Director of Athletics [email protected]

Ryan Wall Sports Information Director [email protected]

Jackie Huff Office Manager/Compliance Coordinator [email protected]

Daniel Santoj Event/Facility Manager [email protected]

Sean Lovell Faculty Athletics Representative [email protected]

TBA Head Athletic Trainer

Brian Weiss Assistant Athletic Trainer [email protected]

Rachael Bailes Head Women’s Volleyball Coach [email protected]

George Arroyo Head Men’s Soccer Coach [email protected]

Jacob Warren Head Women’s Soccer Coach [email protected]

Brent Martin Head M/W Golf Coach [email protected]

Casey Coons Head Men’s Basketball Coach [email protected]

Brenda Baker Head Women’s Basketball Coach [email protected]

Dr. Tim Sykes Head Cross Country/T&F Coach [email protected]

Michael Blevins Head Baseball Coach [email protected]

Jackie Huff Head Softball Coach [email protected]

Allison Corfield Head M/W Tennis Coach [email protected]

Michael Baker Head Esports Coach [email protected]

Mission and Vision of Ohio Christian University

A. University Mission Statement

Ohio Christian University prepares students to serve effectively in the church and society by providing a holistic, Christ-centered, biblically integrated education in the Wesleyan tradition.

Our vision is to prepare world-impacting Christian Servant Leaders

Core Values • Christ Centered • Biblically Based • Student Oriented • Ministry Motivated • Leadership Focused • Academically Excellent

B. Athletic Mission Statement

In Unity with the University, Intercollegiate Athletics is committed to achieving academic and athletic excellence by utilizing the athletic experience as a platform to prepare and develop our student-athletes for lives of living vibrant faith, learning and servant-leadership in their chosen field of endeavor.

C. Athletics’ Five Smooth Stones

1. Faith a. Center Leg Piece 2. Academics a. GPA b. Graduation Rate c. Retention Rate 3. Servant Leadership a. Chapel b. Devotions c. Sportlinc 4. Community a. Engagement b. Projects c. Develop Young People 5. Competition a. W/L b. National Recognition c. Conference Title Appearances

National Association and Conference Affiliation

National Membership

Ohio Christian University is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). Serving over 65,000 athletes and 250 member institutions, the NAIA is a governing body of small athletic programs that are dedicated to character-driven intercollegiate athletics.

Ohio Christian University is an associate member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA).

Ohio Christian University is a member of the National Association of Collegiate Esports (NACE)

Conference Affiliation

Ohio Christian University is affiliated with the River States Conference (RSC) Comprised of 13 member institutions covering five states (Indiana, Kentucky, Ohio, Pennsylvania, West Virginia), the RSC provides a high level of competition in each sport.

River States Conference Members

Alice Lloyd College

Asbury University

Brescia University

Carlow University

Indiana University East

Indiana University Kokomo

Indiana University Southeast

Midway University

Oakland City University

Ohio Christian University

Point Park University

University of Rio Grande

West Virginia Tech

Student Athlete Advisory Committee

A Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a committee made up of student-athletes assembled to provide insight on the student-athlete experience. The SAAC also offers input on the rules, regulations and policies that affect student-athlete’s lives.

Each academic year, two individuals will be selected to represent Ohio Christian University Athletics on the River States Conference (RSC) Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC). These student-athletes meet on a regular basis to discuss their experiences as a student-athlete and how the overall experience at Ohio Christian University, the River States Conference, and the NAIA can improve. Below are the current representatives from the 2020-21 academic year.

2019-20 NAIA Scholar Athletes

Michael Anderson Kiara Rohrer Hayden Hufford Alyssa Turrentine Jordan Green Ariel Young

John Cabelles Brooklyn Cork

Kyle Benecke Brooke Lezotte Samuel Church Kaylah Peele Canaan Gardner Britt Piorkowski Kaleb Blevins Whitney Fiedler Aaron Pertuset Christine Moyer Jonathan Scibiur Kaitlyn Bush Dylan Wilkerson Jessica Curry Emily Carman Karee Neff Jessica Jablonski

9 Eligibility Requirements

NAIA Eligibility Requirements

The requirements below are not designed to be a comprehensive listing of all rules and regulations of the NAIA. They are to assist the student-athlete, coaches, administrators and institutional representatives with a general overview.

Ohio Christian University’s Basic Requirements for Admission

To be considered for admission to the Residential Undergraduate program at Ohio Christian University, all candidates must complete the following steps:

Apply Submit a completed application along with a $25 non-refundable application fee. (Apply Online)

Request Transcripts Request official transcript(s) from your high school and any college you have attended previously. Transcripts must include all course work and grades. Official transcripts must be mailed directly to OCU from your school(s). Photocopies or copies delivered by the candidate will not be accepted. GED certificate or Home School Completion Verification is acceptable in lieu of a high school diploma. For high school students The admissions process is not complete until final transcript is received after high school graduation. All official high school transcripts must be sent directly from the high school to the Admissions Office. (Transcript Request Forms below)

Send Your Test Results Forward results from the ACT or SAT. (If you have taken an equivalent test already, contact us to ask if we will accept it.) If tests have been taken more than once, show all results. Scores may be sent directly from the testing agency or included on your high school transcript. • OCU School Code for ACT: 3249 • OCU School Code for SAT: 1091

Ohio Christian University's Lifestyle Standards • Being committed to Christ as your personal Savior • Striving to develop and portray Christian character while attending Ohio Christian University • Making efforts to intentionally lead your peers at Ohio Christian University so that they may have a positive influence on others • Continually demonstrate an attitude of humility that portrays Christ's love to others, as a representative of the university

10 NAIA Eligibility Requirements

NAIA Eligibility Center

▪ All first-time NAIA participants must register at www.PlayNAIA.org and receive an Eligibility Center determination. ▪ Must receive determination prior to participating in any contest (scrimmage, exhibition or regular season). ▪ Update your short lists with regularity. ▪ Encourage students to submit transcripts and applicable test scores as soon as possible.

An NAIA/OCU Student-Athlete

• May compete during his/her first 10 semesters/15 quarters only • Must meet freshman and/or continuing eligibility requirements (12/24 Hour Rule) • Must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours per semester • Must be making progress towards abaccalaureate degree • Must have a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale in previous semester as well as a cumulative GPA of 2.0 to mantaine eligibility • Must meet transfer eligibility requriements (if applicable) • May compete during four seasons only • Will be enrolled in Student Success if previous semester’s GPA is below a 2.5

Hardship Waivers

In the NAIA, a hardship waiver permits a student to get a season of competition back if the student…

• has suffered a season-ending injury that has been verified by a medical doctor • has competed in no more than the maximum number of contests permitted for a hardship • injury did not occur in the last regular season contest or during post season.

The other thing to remember on hardships is that they only give you seasons of competition back. The student can only get one of those four seasons back. It does not restore any of the 10 semesters or 15 quarters. So multiple hardships, while permissible, won’t permit a student to compete after his or her 10th semester or 15th quarter.

The student seeking the hardship cannot have participated in more than these limits during the sports season. Please note that scrimmages are not included in these limits, but exhibition games are included.

• Baseball – 8 contests • Basketball – 5 contests • Cross Country – 2 meets • Football – 2 contests • Golf – 2 contests

12 • Soccer – 3 contests • Softball – 3 dates • Swimming – 2 meets • Tennis – 3 dates • Indoor Track and Field – 1 meet • Outdoor Track and Field – 2 meets • Volleyball – 4 dates • Wrestling – 3 dates

For more informtion on requesting an NAIA Hardship Waiver, please click here!

For any questions concerning eligiblity, please contact:

Jackie Huff Compliance Coordinator [email protected] 740-477-4504

Student Athlete Code of Conduct

Expectations

The Ohio Christian University Department of Athletics desires its student athletes to be models of the highest ideals of behavior for our university community. We believe that Scripture clearly delineates principles, which govern Christian conduct. Our behavior should not hinder the faith of other believers; we recognize that we have a responsibility to maintain an appropriate testimony before all people. We prayerfully seek to serve Christ in an atmosphere free from personal attitudes of distrust, dishonesty, selfishness, damaging criticism, racism, disrespect, unethical conduct, and irreverence.

Refer to the OCU Student Handbook for specific policies regarding your stay at Ohio Christian University (Click Here)

• Student-athletes will demonstrate an understanding of the relationship between pursing excellence on the field of play and honoring God with their talents. • Student-athletes will demonstrate an understanding of qualities such as dedication, teamwork, and perseverance and how they relate to athletics and everyday life. • Student-athletes will successfully handle the demands of academics and athletics. • Student-athletes will communicate effectively with teammates, coaches and opponents. • Student-athletes will demonstrate proficiency in the skills of their particular sport.

Code of Conduct - It is expected that Ohio Christian University athletes will adhere to all University behavioral standards and policy. It is expected that athletes will always represent Ohio Christian University athletics in a positive manner while demonstrating exemplary sportsmanship:

An Ohio Christian University Student Athlete: • Is expected to comply with all policies and regulations set forth for all students in the Ohio Christian University Student Handbook • Will strive to represent Jesus Christ as a testimony to others. • Competes because of an interest in the game and the enjoyment of playing. • Recognizes that competition in intercollegiate athletics is a privilege and offers opportunities for personal growth in many areas. • Acknowledges that participation in sport provides ministry opportunities from a unique platform. • Understands profanity in any form on or off the field will not be tolerated. In addition, any disregard for other individuals has no place in OCU athletics. Fighting, verbal abuse, taunting, foul language, and hazing activities are unacceptable behaviors. • Understands behavior exhibiting racial, ethnic, religious, or sexual harassment is absolutely prohibited. • Will treat game officials with the utmost respect. • Attends class and chapel at all times except when missed due to athletic travel or a scheduled home contest. • Places the good of the team above his/her own selfish good. • Follows the instructions of the coach closely.

14 • Feels team unity is of utmost importance and when it is jeopardized by a poor attitude or misunderstanding on his/her part, discusses it immediately with the coach. • Gives a full measure of effort to the team. • Has respect for the property of others and for what is held in common ownership with others. Equipment is cared for and returned in good shape when finished. • Possesses confidence in the ability to perform, but is not overconfident. • Expects to be treated as any other student and does not look for favoritism or special consideration from a coach or faculty member. • Recognizes that once a student-athlete has been dismissed from the team for disciplinary reasons, he/she shall not be permitted to return to competition unless he/she is reinstated to the team by approval of the Head Coach and Director of Athletics. • Student-athletes shall not compete or practice with more than one team at OCU without the consent of both coaches. • Student-athletes must participate in all practices and games. Illness, injury, or special circumstances must be communicated to and approved by the head coach. • The head coach has the ultimate responsibility for the determination of playing positions, playing time, and decisions regarding strategies employed during a contest.

Each Head Coach will establish, discuss, and enforce team rules. The Head Coach is responsible for enforcing NCCAA and Ohio Christian University team rules during practices, games, and other public functions. In addition, Head Coaches will handle matters of team discipline. The Director of Athletics will be kept aware of major infractions of the rules.

Possession and Use of Tobacco and/or Controlled Substances and/or Alcohol

The possession and use of alcoholic beverages of any description, non-medical narcotics, or hallucinogenic drugs, including marijuana, is completely and strictly prohibited on the campus of Ohio Christian University, denominational property, or by any student of the University. Those in violation risk immediate dismissal and will be subject to civil penalty as well. All tobacco is prohibited on the University campus and denominational grounds at all times (this includes ECigs, Vapor Pens, chewing tobacco, etc)It is expected that any student that has a habit of tobacco use will make every effort to quit. Counseling and other assistance is available. The University 2018-2019| Student Handbook 11 reserves the right to enforce accountability guidelines when deemed necessary. Ohio Christian University is a drug, alcohol and tobacco free environment.

1. Alcohol Being in the presence of alcohol: First Offense: two days suspension from the team/six hours of community service. Second Offense: suspended from 10 to 20% of the regular season games Use/possession/purchase of alcohol: First Offense: suspended from 20% of the regular season games Second Offense: immediate dismissal (Student Development response which directly affects athletic competition) 2. Tobacco Smoking, chewing, possession, purchasing First Offense: suspended from 20% of the regular season games Second Offense: Immediate dismissal (Student Development response which directly affects athletic competition)

15 Drug Testing Protocol

The goal of the Ohio Christian University Drug Policy is to assure the OCU community, including activities sponsored by the University are free of illegal or unauthorized drugs, alcohol, and any activities or paraphernalia related to its use. Ohio Christian University has a commitment to a healthful, safe and secure work and educational environment free of substance abuse.

Definitions:

• The University shall be understood as being Ohio Christian University. • University property shall encompass offices, buildings, parking lots, facilities, lands, platforms, structures, fixtures installations, automobiles, trucks and all other vehicles, machinery and equipment whether owned, leased, or used by the University. • Employee shall include any part-time, full-time, casual or contract employees and all employee applicants as well. • Students shall include any person enrolled in part-time, full-time, commuter, online course affiliated or held via the University. • Supervisor shall be any person employed by the University that is a Director of a Department which the employee or student works with and/ or for. • “Illegal Drugs, Alcohol, or other substances” includes illegal drugs, unauthorized controlled substances, look—a-likes inhalants of abuse, designer and synthetic drugs and shall include any drug which is not legally obtainable or which is illegally obtainable but has not been legally obtained or used. This is includes prescribed drugs not legally obtained and prescribed drugs not being used for prescription purposes or in excessive dosages. The terms include but are not limited to: cocaine, amphetamines; hallucinogens; PCP; narcotics and analgesics (morphine, codeine), heroin; inhalants from volatile solvents like glue, paint or gasoline; aerosols; or anesthetic gases like Ether, chloroform; cannabinoids; Darvon; Barbituates; Methadone; and Benodiazpines (Valium).

Policy:

• Ohio Christian University prohibits the possession, use, distribution, purchase, or sale (or solicitation of purchase or sale) of illegal or unauthorized drugs, drug related paraphernalia or being under the influence of any such substance, by employees or students, while on Ohio Christian University property or time, while conducting University business, while engaging in a University related activity, or while operating or riding in any vehicle owned or supplied by the University. • Ohio Christian University reserves the right to establish policies for conducting drug tests on students. These scenarios include, but are not limited to: testing for reasonable cause or

16 suspicion, post-accident, return to school/ play, or follow up testing as required by law or as may be determined to be appropriate by Ohio Christian University. • Provisions of this policy also apply to an employee’s or student’s use of a drug prescribed for another person, or use of a prescribed drug in any way other than the manner, combination, or dosage prescribed for such employee or student by a duly licensed medical practitioner, and to prescribed drug use which substantially impairs work or academic performance or threatens the health and safety of the employee or student taking the prescription or of others.

Banned Substances:

1. For those being tested, test specimens may be analyzed for any or all of the following substances and for other such substances the University may deem appropriate: o Cannabonnoids: THC, Marijuana o Amphetamines o Amphetamine Cocaine o Methamphetamine o Methadone o Barbiturates o Amobarbital Methaqualone: Sedative o Aprobarbital o Autabarbital Opiates : Narcotic/ Analgesic o Heroine o Secobarbital Morphine o Diazepam o Flurazepam o Oxazepam

• The NCAA/NAIA also recognizes the following drugs as banned substances: o Stimulants: Amphetamines (Adderall), methamphetamines, caffeine, cocaine, methylphenidate (Ritalin) 1. Exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned. o Anabolic Agents: “Steroids” o Alcohol and Beta Blockers o Diuretics and other Masking Agents: “Water Pills” o Street Drugs: Heroin, marijuana, THC, etc. o Peptide Hormones and Analogues: Human Growth Hormone (hGH) o Anti-Estrogens: anastrozole o Beta-2 Agonists: bambuterol, salbutamol • Prescription Drugs (Legally controlled substances and all off the shelf or over the counter medicines): o All Students must report the use of any medically prescribed or authorized drugs or controlled substances which can impair or lessen academic, athletic, or leadership

17 performance to their Athletic Trainer, Coach, or Resident Director and upon request, must provide written medical authorization to either the Director of Student Life, Athletic Director, Athletic Trainer or Coach from a physician. o This includes without limitation, drugs such as tranquilizers, muscle relaxers, pain medication, and anti-depressants.

Legal rights of Ohio Christian University:

• In order for Ohio Christian University to achieve the objectives of this policy, the University asserts and reserves its legal right to test any and all students for the presence of Illegal Drugs or other such substances in their system or for the use and abuse of such substances. The students may be asked to submit to a medical examination and/or to submit a urine, breath or saliva samples for testing the presence of Illegal Drugs or other such substances. • Random Testing: All students are subject to routine random drug testing in order to detect the use, abuse, or presence in a student’s system of Illegal Drugs or other Such Substances. o After the drug testing consent form has been signed by the student, that student is given a thirty (30) day grace period when no drug testing shall occur. o Each Student has the right to refuse to be tested; any refusal to be tested will be construed as a “drug positive” test result and will be subject to the consequences as listed in this policy.

Drug Testing Procedures:

1. All specimens will undergo an initial screening test. Any positive test will be confirmed through a Gas Chromatography with Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) test. Any positive test result from this latter test will be reviewed by a Medical Review Officer as defined by state law. The Medical Review Officer must provide an opportunity for an interview with the student as part of the verification process prior to the positive test result being communicated back to the University. This is to ensure that a positive test result is not due to authorized prescription, off-the-shelf or over-the-counter medications appropriately used or other factors which the Medical Review Officer feels justifies the presence of the drugs or other such substances. o A student who is suspected of being under the influence of Illegal Drugs or Other Such Substances may, at the option of the University, be suspended from classes, athletics and other extracurricular activities until the results of the drug test are received and reviewed by a University Administrator.

Consequences of a Positive Drug Test:

• First Offense:

18 o No participation in a minimum of 30% of games. If the regular season ends, these will be continued into playoff/ championship games. If there are still games left after playoff/championship games, then they will continue into the next season. o 1-2 weeks missed practice o Required Substance Abuse Counseling o Regular Follow-Up testing at student’s cost. • Second Offense: o Dismissal from Ohio Christian University.

Policy Goals; Policy Changes; No Enrollment Contract or Promise:

• The primary goals of this policy are greater safety for our employees, students, and the general public. Employees and students are required to cooperate and comply fully with the rules and procedures of this policy. • Ohio Christian University reserves the right to amend, supplement or revoke any part of this policy, at such times and under such circumstances as the University shall determine to be appropriate. • Nothing in this policy shall be construed as a contract or promise or employment or enrollment.

If any injury or accident experienced by a student-athlete exceeds $5,000, a claim will then be processed through the student-athlete accident insurance up to $25,000.

If any injury or accident experienced by a student-athlete exceeds $25,000, a claim will then be processed through the NCCAA catastrophic insurance.

Athletic Training

The training room is provided as a service to all athletes for the care and prevention of injuries sustained while a member of an OCU intercollegiate team. The Athletic Training Department strives to provide the best service possible.

Athletic Injury Procedures

When an Ohio Christian University athlete becomes ill or sustains an injury, he/she MUST report that injury to the athletic training staff immediately. This includes injuries sustained during activities that occur during activities outside of intercollegiate athletics. At no time, will the Athletic Trainer be responsible to transfer sick or injured athletes.

To report an injury, the athlete should notify the Athletic Trainer and their head coach so that an incident report can be filled out. Injuries should be reported within 24 hours of occurrence. All information will be kept in confidence according with the HIPPA laws. The athletic training staff will keep a record of all student-athlete injuries.

The athletic training staff will evaluate the extent and nature of the injury. Appropriate steps will then be taken regarding the care of that injury.

Athletic Training Room Procedures

Below is a list of training room procedures that will help the training room run smoothly and efficiently. Failure to abide by these rules will result in the loss of access to the Ohio Christian University Athletic Training Room. Athletes not cleared to participate cannot receive treatment from the Athletic Trainer.

• NO ONE is allowed in the Athletic Training Room without supervision of the Athletic Trainer. • All injuries should be reported to the Athletic Trainer for evaluation. • Absolutely NO shoes on the treatment tables. • All equipment is to be left in the hallway – NO cleats, pads, spikes, etc. • NO FOOD OR DRINK is allowed and the use of any form of tobacco is prohibited. • Profanity is prohibited and horseplay will not be tolerated. • Place all trash in appropriate containers – NO excuses. • Place empty ice bags into the sink when finished. Do not put melted bags in the trash containers. • Personal items should be left in the locker room. The Athletic Trainer is not responsible for lost or stolen articles. • Athletes are not allowed to self-treat injuries (no matter how minor they are). All injuries must be reported to and treated by training staff. Upon receiving treatment or an evaluation, fill out the daily treatment log. No injury is too minor to document. • Supplies will not be taken from the Athletic Training Room without permission (tape, equipment, towels, bottles, etc.). • This facility is co-ed at all times. Appropriate dress is required at all time. A minimum of shirt and shorts should be worn at all times during evaluations and treatments unless otherwise specified by the Athletic Trainer. • Treatments will only be administered during designated treatment hours or by appointment with the Athletic Trainer. Athletes are expected to show up on time for scheduled training or rehab appointments. • The Athletic Training Staff reserve the right to have athletes shower before receiving treatment. • It is the responsibility of the student athlete to allow enough preparation time to be treated before practices/games. Limited staffing and facilities = wait time. PLAN AHEAD. • NO LOITERING - The Athletic Training Room is a healthcare clinic and place of business, not a lounge. If you are not receiving treatment, please make room for others. • In season sports shall receive first priority in regards to practice coverage as well as pre and post-practice treatment/taping. If special coverage is desired for other events please let the Athletic Training Staff know well in advance so schedules can be adjusted. o In season sports are defined as the traditional season that the sport normally competes in from NAIA tournaments and championships (Soccer/Volleyball – Fall; Basketball – Winter; Baseball/Softball – Spring).

20 • The Ohio Christian University Athletic Trainer reserves the right to NOT COVER events that have been changed to a different time without adequate notice. The coach must notify the Certified Athletic Trainer assigned to the sport as soon as possible so attempts to accommodate the request can be made. A MINIMUM of 24 hours is requested for all schedule changes.

Medical Coverage

All student athletes at Ohio Christian University are required to have primary insurance through their family or student insurance purchased through Ohio Christian University. Student athletes are not allowed to participate without proof of primary insurance.

All injuries or accidents will first be processed through the primary insurance. If their primary insurance does not cover all of the cost of the injury, the claim will then be processed through the student accident insurance provided to all students. Secondary insurance does not cover any injury/illness that does not occur during an Ohio Christian University athletic event. Student Accident Insurance Information

Company: Bob McCloskey Insurance (BMI)

• Joan Chomsky - (800) 445-3126 Ext. 141

• Kurt Grady

Letter of Intent (LOI) Policy (Form Included)

III THE STUDENT-ATHLETE:

Understands that he/she must be admitted and academically eligible for participation per NAIA, River States Conference, and Ohio Christian University requirements and maintain academic eligibility throughout the term of this agreement or all parts of this award may be rendered “null and void”.

Understands that the athletic scholarship will not be dispersed until he/she has completed all requirements set by Admissions, the Registrar, and Financial Aid office by the appropriate deadline. Fraudulently misrepresenting any information may result in forfeiture of the athletic scholarship.

Understands that this athletic scholarship amount may be adjusted/forfeited if he/she becomes ineligible (must maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA- previous semester and cumulative). The athletic scholarship may be prorated on a weekly basis.

Must meet Financial Aid Office--Satisfactory Academic Progress requirements which includes GPA, units (credit hours) and maximum time-frame standards as listed in the University catalog. If he/she does not, the Financial Aid office has the right to adjust the athletic scholarship.

21 Understands that if he/she enrolls as a graduate student the athletic scholarship will not exceed cost of attendance and if he/she changes status from an undergraduate to graduate student, the Financial Aid Office has the right to adjust the athletic scholarship.

Understands that it is his/her obligation to make payment arrangements for any out of pocket cost that remains after all financial aid is applied.

Understands that any self-imposed separation (i.e. quitting the team, withdrawing from and/or ceasing to attend Ohio Christian University) from an athletic team will result in forfeiture of the athletic scholarship. The athletic scholarship may be prorated on a weekly basis.

Agrees to abide by the ideals, standards, philosophies, policies, and regulations (spiritual and social lifestyle standards) of Ohio Christian University as listed in the Student Handbook, the University Catalog, and the Student-Athlete Handbook which include: policies against sexual misconduct, the use or possession of tobacco, alcoholic beverages, non-prescription drugs, and associated paraphernalia. Also, agrees that behavior both on and off campus will positively reflect the philosophy and mission of Ohio Christian University.

Understands that this athletic scholarship amount may be adjusted or forfeited if he/she becomes ineligible due to judicial action. The athletic scholarship may be prorated on a daily basis as a judicial consequence.

Agrees to comply, support, and abide by the standards, rules, policies, and regulations of Ohio Christian University, the NAIA, the River States Conference, the Athletic Department, and the team rules/policies as established by the Head Coach.

Agrees to participate and comply with any random and/or intentional drug and alcohol testing and/or educational programs at the discretion of Ohio Christian University.

Understands that he/she must carry primary insurance. If an injury occurs during participation in an Ohio Christian University athletic event (practice, meet, game, or match) the athletic trainer must refer the student-athlete to the doctor/hospital in order for secondary insurance to cover the remaining balance. Any unrelated claim (sickness, flu, intramurals, etc.) will not be covered by the Ohio Christian University secondary insurance policy.

Understands that the offering of an athletic scholarship and the renewal of an athletic scholarship is dependent upon the professional evaluation of the Head Coach.

Agrees to NOT have any contact with another institution upon signing, or all parts of this award may be rendered “null and void”.

Agrees to maintain the confidentiality of this Letter of Intent.

23 Hazing

Hazing, defined as an act which endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student, or which destroys or removes public or private property, for the purpose of initiation, admission into, affiliation with, or as a condition for continued membership in, a group or organization, is strictly prohibited. Disciplinary action will be pursued if students are involved in hazing.

Hazing is not permitted at Ohio Christian University. The head coach and Director of Athletics will make all determinations relative to hazing. Regardless of motive or intent, any student participating in a hazing/prank type activity, which potentially endangers or adversely affects the physical and emotional well-being of another student can expect immediate and serious disciplinary action. This includes the possibility of suspension or dismissal from the University.

Similarly, pranks that cause harm to persons or property are also illegal and strictly prohibited. Because the appropriateness of a particular act may be difficult to gauge, students are discouraged from participating in pranks. Should a prank be considered, students should discuss the activity with his/her Resident Director who will determine the appropriateness of the intended action. Students who participate in a prank or in a hazing activity will be held responsible for his/her behavior, regardless of motive or intent. Violators of this policy face sanctions that include, but are limited to, department or University probation, suspension from the team and/or the University; expulsion from the team and/or University. In addition, the team may be subject to group discipline that can include, but is not limited to, team probation, cancellation of individual contests, and/or cancellation of the entire season. University and/or Department of Athletics action may occur whether or not civil or criminal actions take place.

Any person suffering or witnessing a hazing activity is strongly encouraged to report the incident to a coach, a member of the Department of Athletics staff, or one of the members of the Office of Student life.

Social Media

It is imperative that each student realizes the importance of using discretion when utilizing social network mediums such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Students are strongly encouraged to use the strongest privacy settings to prevent people from accessing personal information. Additionally, students must realize that they always represent Ohio Christian University.

Content put on the internet can have negative consequences regarding status as a student, professional opportunities and other goals. Students who have complaints or concerns should utilize the appropriate method for submitting letters of complaint explained in the Student Handbook. Furthermore, the University has established the following Social Networking Policy for all University representatives:

• Purpose - Social networking services (i.e., Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, etc.) provide a means of reaching many students and constituents in a way that they welcome and even invite. For this reason, Ohio Christian University (OCU) must seek ways to harness the 2018-2019| Student Handbook and power of social media while maintaining a degree of consistency and control over how social networking is used.

24 • Scope - This policy applies to all official OCU social media presences. It is important to note that due to the nature of social networking services, it is impossible for OCU to fully control what is posted on social networking services if that content is not created by an employee or agent of the University. OCU should and can control the content posted to social media services by employees and authorized agents. • Definition - Social Networking Services are internet-based services or sites that allow individuals or organizations to share views and connect with other individuals or organizations. Examples of social networking sites include Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, and LinkedIn.

• Approval o Before creating an official OCU presence on social networking service(s), employees must obtain the approval of their vice president. o Student groups must obtain the approval of the Assistant Vice-President and Dean of Students for Student Development. o In order to obtain approval, the individual must submit a document describing the objective for creating the social networking presence as well as a description of the types of content and information which will be shared. • Content o When creating a social networking presence all content including content posted by visitors must be consistent with the guidelines and spirit of the OCU Student Handbook. The creator of the social networking presence is responsible for reviewing all posted content and removing inappropriate content. o The title of the presence must include “Official.” For example, “Ohio Christian University (Official).” o OCU logos and other graphics must be consistent with those in the OCU Brand Style Guide, so that the OCU brand is protected. The OCU Webmaster will be available to provide logos and address questions related to maintaining a consistent OCU image. • Access and Permissions o All social networking presences must be owned by the department. This means that in addition to the individual responsible for updating the content, the department’s vice president must also have access to the site. o The Webmaster must also be provided with administrative access to all social networking services. The Webmaster will not visit social networking sites regularly to review content; however, he or she must be equipped to address concerns if concerns are expressed. 2018-2019| Student Handbook • Responsibilities - It is the responsibility of each department to maintain social networking presences so that they remain consistent with the standards of OCU both in terms of the appearance and appropriateness of the content.

Media Guidelines It is the policy of the University that all forms of public media (i.e. television, newspaper, radio, websites) who wish to interview any member of the University be referred to the Office of the President with their comments or questions.

25 Non-Discrimination Policy

Ohio Christian University admits students of any race, color, nationality, ethnicity, or handicap to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally available to students at the school. It does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, nationality, or ethnicity in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, as well as athletic and other school-administered programs. 2018-2019| Student Handbook 10 In conformity with the pertinent requirements of Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972 enacted by the Congress of the United States, Ohio Christian University does not within the context of its religious principles, heritage, mission, or goals discriminate on the basis of sex in the area of employment, admission, educational programs, or other activities. Ohio Christian University complies with all federal and state non-discrimination laws and is an equal opportunity institution. The University reserves the right to, and does, maintain student educational and behavioral standards, as well as standards based upon religious considerations consistent with its role and mission.

Grievance Procedure

The following procedures have been established to help guide the student-athlete through a potential grievance with a staff member within the Intercollegiate Athletic Department

1. The student-athlete must schedule a meeting with the Athletic Director and the staff member with whom he/she has a grievance and during this meeting inform the staff member of a potential grievance. During this meeting every effort will be made to resolve the situation through direct communication. 2. If the student-athlete has a grievance with the Athletic Director, the student-athlete must schedule the meeting with the Vice President of Student Development. 3. If the situation is unable to be resolved to the satisfaction of the student-athlete, during this meeting and a t this time the student-athlete will inform the Athletic Director they wish to continue the grievance procedure. 4. The student-athlete must write a detailed statement describing the grievance and submit this statement to the Athletic Director within five (5) business days of the scheduled meeting. 5. The Athletic Director will set an appointment with the student-athlete and the Vice President of Student Development 6. Following this meeting, a final decision will be made on the grievance by the Athletic Director and/or the Vice President of Student Development who will then present it to all involved parties in writing

26 Discretion Statement

The Ohio Christian University Intercollegiate Athletic Department reserves the right to apply the following, but is not limited to: suspension from the Intercollegiate Athletic Department, suspension from practice, suspension from contests, reduction of scholarship, termination of scholarship, non-renewal of scholarship, dismissal from the team or involuntarily withdraw any student-athlete from the intercollegiate athletic department at the discretion of the Head Coach and/or the Athletic Director and/or his/her designee, as deemed necessary for the safety and/or well-being of the student-athlete and/or others. The Intercollegiate Athletic Department reserves the right to alter this student-athlete handbook at any time. The current student-athlete handbook supersedes all previous handbooks and/or the policies expressed in the latest policy revisions will govern all student-athlete issues.

Student-Handbook/COVID-19 Action Plan Acknowledgment Page

This Student-Athlete handbook will outline the resources and expected behavior of Ohio Christian University Student-Athletes and Staff throughout the academic year.

This document will answer questions about expectations, Ohio Christian Athletics and University policies, and other items of importance. Each student-athlete will be expected to take responsibility for contributing to a safe and productive environment at Ohio Christian University.

To access the Student-Athlete Handbook, please go to www.ocutrailblazers.com and click on “2020-21 Student-Athlete Handbook” under the Inside Athletics tab.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. To show that the student-athlete has read this handbook, please sign on the lines available. The student-athlete will be asked to turn in this page. Please return to the Compliance Coordinator, Jackie Huff. If you have any further questions, please contact Jackie at [email protected]

In addition to the 2020-21 Handbook, Ohio Christian Athletics has also developed a COVID- 19 action plan that will be enforced for all student-athletes. To access this document, please go to www.ocutrailblazers.com and click on “2020-21 COVID-19 Action Plan” under the Inside Athletics tab.

I have read the procedures and rules set forth in the student-athlete handbook and the COVID-19 Action Plan for the 2020-21 academic year.

Student-Athlete (Print)

Student-Athlete (Sign and Date)