Massabesic High School Athletic Department Handbook 2019-20

MASSABESIC HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT HANDBOOK 2019-20

Index

Introduction / Philosophy / Mission Page 3 Goals / Coaches codes of ethics Page 4 Athletic Department Expectations Page 5 Concussion Management Page 6 Academic Eligibility Page 9 Substance Abuse Policy Page 15 Vacation Policy / Playing Time / Returning from Illness Page 17 Earning a Varsity Letter Page 18 Assumption Of Risk Page 19 Parental Code of Ethics Page 20 Parental Protocol for expressing concerns Page 21 PED’s / Ejection Rule / Transfer Rule Page 22 Sign Up Procedures / Boosters Page 24 Bona Fide Team Rule Form Page 26 Hazing Policy Page 27 RevTrak Instructions page 28

Staff

Activities Director- Brendan Scully [email protected] 207-247-3141 ext 2216 Activities Administrative Asst- Deb Ford [email protected] 207-247-3141 ext 2262 Athletic Trainer- Emily Nicholson [email protected] 207-247-3141

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to serve as a guide to your coaching duties and responsibilities. The handbook contains procedures, regulations and paperwork required of the Massabesic Department of Athletics. The information compiled will provide consistency among and between all coaches, interscholastic teams, and student athletes. Each coach will follow the procedures and regulations set forth and provide paperwork requested as well. This handbook is to be kept as a reference guide.

ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY

The athletic experience is an essential part of many students overall education. Athletics plays a significant role in developing positive self-esteem and a sense of well-being. Lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, competition, and how to win and lose gracefully are integral parts of our athletic program. To this end, the goal at every level of athletics is to strive for excellence. Student growth and development is positively impacted when students engage in a strong academic program and participate in a strong athletic program.

While learning fair play, teamwork and self-discipline, student athletes must be challenged at the level or skill they bring to the sport. Student athletes, male and female, shall be afforded the opportunity to participate at the most appropriate level to achieve optimal personal growth. Student athletes must have the opportunity to develop their skills and reach their maximum potential in a well-coached environment.

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT

The Massabesic Department of Athletics strives for excellence by providing opportunities for student athletes to participate in programs that are designed to develop meaningful standards of athletic performance, leadership, commitment to one’s team, critical thinking, problem solving, self - discipline, self- confidence, scholarship, community service and relations and appropriate conduct within the educational and social environments of Massabesic High School and Massabesic Middle School.

GOALS 1. To encourage student athletes to achieve success by maintaining academic eligibility rules and to keep athletics in proper perspective. 2. To develop good citizenship, honesty, emotional control, dependability, and respect for rules, property and authority. 3. To provide an opportunity to exemplify and observe good sportsmanship. 4. To maintain a high standard of credible and positive performance and conduct on and off the field. 5. To teach and emphasize the fundamental skills of the various sports as a necessary ingredient in achieving individual and team success. 6. To stress the importance of physical fitness, conditioning, health habits, and safety in athletics. 7. To provide opportunities to develop lasting friendships with teammates and opponents. 8. To provide a well planned and well balanced program of interscholastic athletics for as many students as possible. 9. To provide high quality leadership for all athletic programs so as to exemplify to students a desired behavior to be developed from each athletic program. 10. To provide opportunities for the development of unity, belonging, team pride, teamwork and commitment.

The Varsity athletic program is an advanced program. Students in grades nine through twelve who compete at the Varsity level must exhibit high-level skills and abilities. Varsity athletes are program leaders both off and on the field/court. Exemplary sportsmanship and winning are high priorities.

CODE OF ETHICS FOR MASSABESIC COACHES The function of a coach is to teach attitudes, proper habits, knowledge and skills. The athletic program is designed to enhance academic achievement and should never interfere with opportunities for academic success. Each student athlete should be treated as an individual whose welfare shall be primary at all times. The coach must be aware that he or she serves as a model in the education of the student athletes and, therefore, shall never place the value of winning above the value of character building.

*The coach must constantly uphold the honor of dignity of the teaching profession. In all personal contact with the student athlete, officials, athletic directors, school administrators, the state high school athletic association, the media and the public, the coach shall strive to set an example of the highest ethical and moral conduct.

*The coach shall support and enforce school rules for the prevention of drug, alcohol and tobacco use and abuse and under no circumstances shall authorize the use of these substances. The coach shall promote the entire interscholastic program of the school and direct his or her program in harmony with the total school program.

*The coach shall be thoroughly acquainted with contest, state, league, and local rules, and is responsible for their interpretation to team members. The coach shall abide by the letter and spirit of these rules at all times.

*Coaches shall actively use their influence to enhance sportsmanship by their spectators, working closely with booster clubs and administrators. *Contest officials shall have the respect and support of the coach. The coach shall not indulge in conduct, which will incite players or spectators against the officials or against each other. Public criticism of officials or players is unethical. *Before and after contests, rival coaches should meet and exchange friendly greetings to set the correct tone for the event. *A coach shall not exert pressure on faculty members to give student athletes special consideration. It is unethical for coaches to scout opponents by any other means than those adopted by the state high school athletic association and league.

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT EXPECTATIONS All coaches, student athletes, parents/guardians, and administrators will be responsible and accountable for promoting and upholding the athletic department’s expectations.

All student-athletes are expected to: *Recognize that academic achievement comes first. *Communicate openly with coaches and parents/guardians about all matters pertaining to his/her sport. *Attend and arrive on time for practices, games, meetings, etc. *Promote school spirit as a representative of his/her sport while demonstrating support for all school programs and extracurricular activities. *Understand playing time is at the sole discretion of the coach.

All parents/guardians are expected to: *Understand that coaches have autonomy in all decisions regarding playing time, style of play, strategy, line-ups, playing time, etc. *Demonstrate support and enthusiasm for the entire team rather than their son/daughter exclusively *Be positive and constructive in the development of their child as a student-athlete. *Communicate in a reasonable manner to the appropriate authority regarding athletic concerns *Understand they are role models

All coaches are expected to: *Communicate openly and clearly with all athletes, parents/guardians, and administrators *Advise parents your philosophy as a coach and expectation of their son/daughter *Advise parents and student/athlete of the transportation policy *Regularly participate in professional development opportunities to enhance, improve, and stay current with best coaching practices *Help develop each student-athlete in fulfilling his/her potential regarding the strategy, skill, fitness, and psychological aspects of the respective sport *Make decisions regarding all team matters *Understand they are role models

All administrators/athletic directors are expected to: *Appoint, maintain, and support competent and knowledgeable coaches *Require regular participation in professional development opportunities for coaches *Supervise all coaches in a fair and thorough manner.

ATHLETIC TRAINING SERVICES RSU 57 has contracted Southern Maine Health Care to provide athletic training services for Massabesic High School and Massabesic Middle School. Our high school trainer is Emily Nicholson and our Middle School trainer is Nate Colpitts. Our training services now come with the full support of the Southern Maine Healthcare Sports Performance Center as well as the physicians working with SMHC. While working with SMHC doctors is not required our trainers are able to assist with making connections between injured athletes and their families and qualified medical personnel.

MISSION STATEMENT Massabesic High School is committed to providing the highest level of service and care to all student athletes. This includes the prevention, care, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries as well as the nutritional, psychological, and physiological needs of each student-athlete. The care provided by the sports medicine team will be aimed at each student-athlete’s specific injury and needs for both the body and mind. While the student’s desire to participate in athletics is recognized, it is the responsibility of the sports medicine team to ensure that the health and long term well-being of the student-athlete is paramount in the decision to return the student to athletics following an injury. All care will be delivered objectively and without prejudice.

SPORTS MEDICINE TEAM Massabesic High School is proud to have a sports medicine team in place to facilitate the treatment of the student-athlete population. This team is comprised of physicians, a certified athletic trainer, a registered nurse, physical therapist, strength and conditioning specialist, and athletic training students when available. The goal of this team is to increase the quality and consistency of care provided to the student-athlete. The following people are the members of the Massabesic High School sports medicine team:

1) School Physician a) Dr. Christian Basque, MD i) Southern Maine Health Care Orthopedics

2) Team Physicians a) Dr. David Johnson MD i) Southern Maine Health Care Orthopedics b) Dr. John Dolan DO i) Southern Maine Health Care Neurology c) Dr. Christian Basque, MD i) Southern Maine Health Care Orthopedics and Sports Medicine 3) Certified Athletic Trainer a) Emily Nicholson, LAT, ATC, Nate Colpitts, LAT, ATC, CSCS i) Southern Maine Health Care Sports Performance Center 4) Registered Nurse a) Nancy Sobianik, RN 5) Team Physical Therapist a) Mike Hersey PT, SCS, CSCS i) Southern Maine Health Care Sports Performance Center 6) Team Strength and Conditioning Specialist a) Rick Sirois MS, L-ATC, CSCS i) Southern Maine Health Care Sports Performance Center.

MANAGEMENT OF CONCUSSIONS AND OTHER HEAD INJURIES

The Board recognizes that concussions and other head injuries are potentially serious and may result in significant brain damage and/or death if not recognized and managed properly. The Board adopts this policy to promote the safety of students.

TRAINING

By June 30 of each year, the Activities Director will identify the school-sponsored athletic activities that pose a risk of concussion or other head injury. A list of these activities will be distributed to school administrators and coaches.

All coaches, including volunteer coaches, must undergo training in the identification and management of concussive and other head injuries prior to assuming their coaching responsibilities. The training must be consistent with such protocols as may be identified or developed by the Maine Department of Education (DOE) and include instruction in the use of such forms as the DOE may develop or require.

Coaches shall be required to undergo refresher training every two (2) years or when protocols and/or forms have been revised.

STUDENT AND PARENT INFORMATION

Prior to the beginning of each season, students and parents of students who will be participating in school-sponsored athletic activities will be provided information regarding:

A. The risk of concussion and other head injuries and the dangers associated with continuing to participate when a concussion or other head injury is suspected;

B. The signs and symptoms of concussion and other head injuries; and

C. The school unit’s protocols for:

● removal from the activity when a student is suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury; ● evaluation, and ● return to participation in the activity (“return to play”).

The student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) must sign a statement acknowledging that they have received and read this information before the student will be allowed to participate in any school-sponsored athletic activity.

MANAGEMENT OF CONCUSSIVE AND OTHER HEAD INJURIES

It is the responsibility of the coach of the activity to act in accordance with this policy when the coach recognizes that a student may be exhibiting signs, symptoms and behaviors associated with a concussion or other head injury.

Any student suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury during a school-sponsored athletic activity including but not limited to competition, practice or scrimmage, must be removed from the activity immediately. The student and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) will be informed of the need for an evaluation for brain injury before the student will be allowed to return to the activity.

No student will be permitted to return to the activity or to participate in any other school-sponsored athletic activity on the day of the suspected concussion.

Any student who is suspected of having sustained a concussion or other head injury shall be prohibited from further participation in school-sponsored athletic activities until he/she has been evaluated and received written medical clearance to do so from a licensed health care provider who is qualified and trained in concussion management.

Coaches and other school personnel shall comply with the student’s health care provider’s recommendations in regard to gradual return to participation. No student will be permitted to return to full participation (competition) until cleared to do so. More than one evaluation by the student’s health care provider may be necessary before the student is cleared for full participation.

If at any time during the return to play program, signs or symptoms of a concussion are observed, the student must be removed from the activity and referred to his/her health care provider for re-evaluation.

COGNITIVE CONSIDERATIONS

School personnel should be alert to cognitive and academic issues that may be experienced by students who have suffered a concussion or other head injury, including but not limited to, difficulty with concentration, organization, long and short term memory and sensitivity to bright lights and sounds, and accommodate a gradual return to full participation in academic activities as appropriate, based on the recommendations of the student’s health care provider and appropriate designated school personnel (e.g., 504 Coordinator).

CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT TEAM

The Superintendent will appoint a concussion management team including a school administrator to be responsible, under the administrative supervision of the Superintendent, to make recommendations related to implementation of this policy. The concussion management team will include the Activities Director and school nurse and may include one or more principals or assistant principals, the school physician and such other school personnel or consultant as the Superintendent deems appropriate.

Athletic Training in RSU 57 The RSU 57 Board of Directors provides athletic training services at MHS and MMS for athletes participating in interscholastic athletics. The athletic trainer is responsible for the management of injuries suffered by our student athletes. The athletic trainer has the authority to restrict or deny participation due to the medical condition of the athlete. Clearance to return to play must be provided by an MD, DO, Physicians Assistant or Nurse Practitioner and must specifically reference the injury of concern.

Policy: JJIC Regional School Unit #57

Academic Eligibility: Athletic and Co-Curricular Participation

The Regional School Unit #57 recognizes the vital contributions that athletics and co-curricular activities make to the academic, social, emotional, and personal development of our students, and the district strongly encourages all students to participate in the diverse athletic and co-curricular programs offered by RSU #57. Through their involvement in teams, clubs, and peer groups, students learn essential life skills, assume personal responsibility, strengthen character traits, acquire leadership abilities, and build lifelong relationships. Students who elect to play sports, participate in student governance, or join a school group, club, or team make a voluntary commitment to these pursuits and earn the privilege of representing their school and community.

Student participation in athletics and co-curricular activities is viewed as an integral component of the learning process, and for this reason our eligibility policy is intended to be motivational in design rather than disciplinary. Yet while interscholastic athletics and co-curricular activities complement and enhance the academic program, school attendance must remain focused, first and foremost, on learning the knowledge, skills, and habits of work that every graduate needs to succeed in adult life. The district’s eligibility policy for interscholastic athletics and co-curricular programs is designed to ensure that academic learning and achievement remain the top priority for every student.

Massabesic High School Eligibility Expectations

A. Communicating Eligibility Guidelines and Requirements To ensure that students, parents, and families are informed about and have access to the requirements that must be met to remain eligible to participate in interscholastic sports and co-curricular activities, the principal, activities administrator, coaches, advisors, and staff will communicate all school policies and requirements related to eligibility. The activities administrator, under the direction of the principal, will be responsible for ensuring that accurate, up-to-date information concerning the academic eligibility policy is communicated to students, parents, and the public. This information will be shared through the following: (1) published annually in the student and family handbook, (2) posted on the district and high school websites, (3) explained in the athletic code of conduct, and (4) discussed in relevant student and parent meetings offered throughout the school year. As soon as it is practical and feasible, the Board expects the principal and activities administrator to inform all students and their families of any modifications made to the district’s academic eligibility policy, which extends to all applicable changes in relevant state statutes, rules, or regulations.

B. Eligibility Participation Guidelines The following policy applies to all interscholastic athletics and co-curricular activities offered, organized, or sanctioned by the district, including:

1. Games, competitions, tournaments, scrimmages, performances, debates, and exhibitions; 2. Practice sessions, rehearsals, training opportunities, team meetings, club gatherings, or other planning and preparatory activities;

3. Tryouts, auditions, interviews, and other selective activities, such as campaigns and elections for student governance; and

4. Elected or appointed leadership roles, including team captaincies, student councils, student governance, or other student offices, such as participation on a school board or leadership committee. By design, this policy complies with the eligibility policies and requirements for interscholastic athletics maintained by the Maine Principals’ Association and all applicable state statutes, rules, and regulations. C. Eligibility Guidelines: I. To be eligible for participation in interscholastic athletics and co-curricular activities, the student, during the preceding grading period, must have (a) been fully enrolled and on track to graduate; and (b) and proficient / passing / on pace in All Courses and/or school-approved learning experiences leading to graduation approved in advance by MHS Administration.

II. Eligibility will be checked at each progress report (3) each semester and through the end of semester summative grade. Eligibility for fall athletics and co-curricular activities will be based on demonstrated academic performance during the preceding semester (previous year). In accordance with the Maine Principals’ Association policy, incoming ninth-grade students are exempt from fourth-quarter eligibility requirements.

III. Any student who has been assigned or required to complete an intervention for any prior course must be enrolled and making satisfactory progress in an intervention or have completed that obligation before being deemed eligible for continuous participation in co-curricular activities.

IV. Any student who is failing or behind pace and not earning adequate progress within Guiding Principles B and D, at any grade checkpoint will be placed on Academic Probation.

D. Academic Probation and Intervention Process Students who are determined to be ineligible shall be placed on academic probation and offered intervention assistance. The district believes that students on academic probation should be given (1) multiple opportunities to meet academic eligibility requirements in ways that address the student’s distinct learning needs and (2) multiple intervention options that allow for an accelerated reinstatement of eligibility if the student is able to demonstrate significant and measureable progress toward proficiency.

Students who are placed on academic probation are allowed to practice but are not allowed to participate in any co-curricular events other than practices and meetings. Academic probation will be enforced at progress report time and the course end of semester summative score.

Students will have 2 weeks from the date grades are posted to recover their grades to proficient / passing. If at the end of two weeks the student’s grades are not meeting expectations the student will be suspended from co-curricular activities for the remainder of the season.

Students can regain their eligibility by demonstrating Adequate Course Progress (ACP), at the next grade check point.

Students failing to meet course expectations during the second semester are expected to recover those course expectations during the summer. Students who complete these expectations will be on monitor status to begin the academic year. These students will be able to participate with the activity, but cannot participate in any co-curricular activities until successfully completing their monitor period which is defined as successfully completing two full weeks of school meeting all Guiding Principle, Attendance, Behavior and Academic expectations. During Monitor Status, if a student’s progress starts to decline he/she will be placed on Probation. Failure to meet Probation expectations would result in removal from the team for the remainder of the season.

Massabesic Middle School Eligibility Expectations A. Massabesic Middle School Eligibility Participation Guidelines The activities program at Massabesic Middle School shall provide instruction and encourage maximum participation and citizenship at Massabesic Middle School in a wide variety of activities that should satisfy most of the needs and interests of students. Students must realize that it is a privilege to participate in the school's activities program and must realize that he/she is representing the school and District. B. Maintenance of Grades To be eligible, a student must maintain a minimum score of 2.0 on all standards being assessed. Students who have received a score of 1.0 on no more than two standards being assessed will be eligible on a probationary status for three weeks. During the probationary period, students will need to demonstrate that they are working to bring the score to the 2.0 or higher by completing an individual learning plan (ILP) indicating how the student plans to bring the assessed score to a 2.0. Failure to bring the score to 2.0 or higher by the end of the probationary period or by not engaging in the plan will result in the student being removed from the sport or activity. If a student receives a score below 2.0 on any standard in the last trimester of their seventh grade year, they will not be eligible for participation in sports or activities, as an eighth grader, until they have brought all scores to 2.0 or above. Incompletes must be made up within two (2) weeks after report cards have been issued. Coaches and advisors will list the candidates on a sports and activity form and check their eligibility with the Guidance Office.

MMS / MHS Additional Eligibility Expectations

A. Students Requiring Special Services For students identified for special services, the student’s individualized education program (IEP) will be used to determine academic eligibility. Guidelines for determining eligibility will be implemented by school administrators and subject to review by the superintendent.

B. Transfer Students For students who transfer into the district, academic eligibility will be determined by the principal and athletic administrator and will be based on the last reported grades earned during the previous grading period at the student’s sending school.

C. Registration Requirements for Participation

I. Sports Physicals and Insurance: Because of the relationship between athletics and student health and safety, a sports physical will be required every two years before a student may participate in interscholastic athletic activities.

Thereafter, a student will be required to submit a completed health questionnaire each year prior to participation. The school nurse will review questionnaires and will refer students deemed in need of further examination to their family health care provider.

A student who suffers serious illness or injury must obtain “return to play” clearance from his/her healthcare provider before further participation in athletics is allowed.

All students must demonstrate evidence of health insurance coverage before participating in athletic activities. If the student is not insured by a family insurance policy, school insurance will be available at the student’s expense.

II. Parent Permission for Participation in Extracurricular Activities: A student must provide their coach/advisor with a permission form signed by their parent/guardian before participating in the first practice or meeting.

III. Registration and Clearance to participate All participants must complete the registration process either online or paper forms to participate on any RSU 57 Athletic Team. Registration includes payment of RSU 57 Activity fees. No student will be allowed to participate until this process is completed.

All participants in RSU 57 athletic programs must be medically cleared by the school nurse and academically cleared by school administration before being allowed to participate.

D. Conduct Standards: The Superintendent/designee shall be responsible for enforcing eligibility standards described in this policy. The Superintendent/designee may develop and implement a code of conduct for students participating in athletics and other extra curricular activities so long as they are consistent with this and other Board policies.

Students participating in interscholastic athletics and other extracurricular activities shall be subject to all such conduct expectations, and the consequences for violating them, as well as all other rules affecting the student body.

E. Citizenship: Students are expected to abide by Regional School Unit #57’s rules and regulations. Students who are placed on disciplinary probation, detention or suspension will forfeit their right to participate in co-curricular activities for the duration of that disciplinary action.

F. Attendance: A student must be present in school at least 75% of the day of a practice or game in order to participate in that practice or game. In a situation involving extenuating circumstances, a decision on eligibility will be made by the administration (Athletic Director/Principal).

G. Training: All athletes must abide by the training and disciplinary rules set up by the coach(es), which will be provided in writing at the beginning of the season(s). An athlete is one who is training or who will be trained to compete in interscholastic sports. A season begins with the first called practice for that sport and ends with the awards ceremony..

H. Transportation: Students must ride to and from away contests in transportation supplied by the school. Upon presentation of a note from a parent to the coach, a student may be released from their obligation to ride school transportation to or from away contests.

I. Equipment: All equipment issued is the responsibility of the student. Students cannot participate in another sport or activity until lost and/or damaged equipment is paid for.

J. Dress: When students are representing their team, school, and District, their appearance must be neat, clean and reflect a positive image on both the school and community.

K. Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs: In the event a student engages in the use, possession or sale of tobacco, alcohol or drugs at school, during any school function or at any other time outside of school, or is knowingly in the presence of outside of parent or guardian supervision, while involved in a co-curricular activity, the District policy will be followed.

The Principal or designee reserves the right to use his/her discretion when administering the policy in cases where extenuating circumstances exist.

L. Notification Policy: The Superintendent/designee shall be responsible for notifying students and parents of the eligibility standards articulated in this policy through means such as the student handbook, parent and participant meetings, or other means.

R.S.U. #57 Substance Abuse POLICY

We all recognize that the use of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs negatively affects student health, safety, and performance. All students have a responsibility to themselves, their fellow students, parents/guardians, their school, and to our greater community to adhere to high standards of conduct, including avoidance of the use, possession, furnishing, or selling of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. Substance use and abuse are incompatible with the physical, mental, and emotional demands placed upon participants in extracurricular activities and with the positive image that participants are expected to project on behalf of our school. Participation in athletics and other extracurricular activities is a privilege. All Massabesic students will be held accountable for violating Board policies and conduct rules pertaining to the use, possession of and in the presence of tobacco, alcohol, and drugs. All MHS students agree to not be involved with, or in the use of these substances. They also agree not to be in the presence of these substances in an inappropriate, unsupervised or underage setting. MHS students also realize that in addition to the consequences prescribed in Board policies and procedures along with school rules, ALL students will be held accountable for violations that occur throughout the school year. R.S.U. #57’s Substance Abuse Policy takes effect for all students on day 1 of their involvement in a fall extra-curricular activity. For all other students this policy takes effect on the first day of school, whichever comes first for the student concerned. R.S.U. #57’s Substance Abuse Policy ends on the last day of school or the last day of spring activities whichever comes last. An activity is considered to be over when the culminating celebration for that activity is completed. Students in violation of this policy will not be allowed to participate in or attend school activities until their eligibility has been recovered through the steps described below. If a student is not involved in an activity during the time of suspension, their suspension will not carry over to upcoming seasons (unless the 4 week time period overlaps), but the requirements for recovering eligibility must be met.

USE OF-POSSESSION OF- In the Presence Of First Offense A. R.S.U. #57 tobacco, drug, and alcohol use/possession consequences will be enforced for any offense that occurs from the first day of the fall extra-curricular activity or the first day of school, whichever comes first. R.S.U. #57’s Substance Abuse Policy ends on the last day of school or the last day of spring activities whichever comes last for the student. An activity is over when the culminating celebration for that activity is completed.

B. There will be a four-week penalty period during which the student will NOT be permitted to participate in any scheduled event or competition. During the first two weeks students will not be allowed to have any involvement or contact with their activity. During the second two weeks students will be allowed to rejoin the activity and rehearse, practice and attend regular meetings, but will not be allowed to participate in scheduled events and / or competitions

C. The student will be required to attend and successfully complete the earliest scheduled substance abuse awareness course/activities offered by the school’s counseling services or outside services mutually agreed to. Failure to complete this expectation will result in suspension from all future scheduled events or competitions.

D. If the student has not completed the 4 week suspension period before the culminating activity the student will not be allowed to attend.

E. A required action plan must be developed and followed which would assist the student in avoiding a similar violation in the future. The action plan will be developed by the student, parent, advisor/coach, and a designated administrator (in most cases the AD). Failure to complete the action plan will prohibit the student from regaining participatory status in any scheduled event or competition.

F. Students will not be allowed to attend any culminating activity or banquet unless their eligibility has been recovered. Students will be ineligible to receive individual honors or awards from the school activity, but will be allowed to receive a letter or certificate based on the criteria for earning a letter established for each sport.

G. The student in violation of this policy will not be allowed to attend school-sponsored events until eligibility is recovered (Prom, Homecoming, etc.).

H. If the student is involved in more than one activity at a time that student is considered suspended from ALL school activities.

Second Offense A. The second offense for a violation in this policy is a suspension for the remainder of the current trimester / season and the next trimester / season. The student must then enter an intervention program (10 meetings or sessions not provided by school resources), and complete twenty five (25) hours of approved community service which will not be counted toward community service graduation cord, in order to earn reinstatement.

B. All violations are cumulative during the student’s high school enrollment and will be monitored by the school administration.

D. Students will not be allowed to attend any culminating activity or banquet unless their eligibility has been recovered. Students will be ineligible to receive individual honors or awards from the school activity, but will be allowed to receive a letter or certificate if he/she fulfills criteria established by the activities director.

E. The student will not be allowed to attend school-sponsored events until eligibility is recovered. (Prom, Homecoming, etc.). Third Offense : Any student guilty of a third offense would forfeit their eligibility for participation in activities for the remainder of their time at MHS.

Playing Time Practices There are many benefits to be gained by participation in athletics at the high school level. Athletes learn discipline, to perform under stress, teamwork, sacrifice, commitment, effort, accountability, sportsmanship, confidence, leadership, and to play within the rules. Although there are many measures of success in the minds of each athlete, perhaps the most emotional is “playing time” during games. If an athlete has a question about the amount of playing time he/she is getting, he/she should be encouraged to discuss it with the coach. Being a member of a team at Massabesic High School does not guarantee “playing time,” but there are some guidelines:

A. Freshmen and Junior Varsity Teams This is the developmental level where athletes learn skills and strategies to prepare them for varsity competition. The coaching staff will play all team members for as much time as is practical. There are many factors that govern an individual’s playing time. Some of the most important are: attendance at practice, effort, attitude, commitment, and athletic skill. This is the level for athletes to show their potential and demonstrate to the coaching staff that they are ready for varsity level competition.

B. Varsity Teams This level of competition has the same factors and guidelines as the sub-varsity teams. However, there is one additional major factor. The varsity teams compete against opponents at the highest possible level. There is a greater emphasis on winning. To reach this goal, the most competitive, skilled team members will get the most playing time. However, teams cannot be successful without committed substitutes. These athletes have to be ready to step up when needed, and practice hard to help make the team as competitive as they can be. They should constantly strive to move up to the “starting” role. There are many decisions made by the coaching staff during the course of a season. These include which athletes should be starters, who should play what position, and how long each athlete should play. These decisions, often difficult to make, are made only by the coaching staff, and are approached with the best interests of the team as the top priority.

C. VACATION PROCEDURES DURING THE ATHLETIC SEASON: In the event that a family vacation is unavoidable at any time during the season, an athlete must: Let the coach know at the beginning of the season. For every practice missed, the athlete must practice that same amount of practices with their team before they are allowed to participate in any scrimmages or games.

D. RETURN TO PLAY PROCEDURES AFTER AN INJURY/ ILLNESS: Any athlete who is seen by a physician or physician assistant must be released (signed statement) by the person that treated your child to resume participation with their team. If you have to go to the emergency room for care, please obtain a release (written) before leaving the hospital. This release must be filed with the athletic trainer. It is the athlete’s responsibility to get the release to the athletic trainer. In case of a long term illness or injury, there will be a period of conditioning for the athlete before he/she can return to competition. The school’s Athletic Trainer will have final determination when an athlete can return to play in all medical circumstances. (This includes concussion/head injuries.)

Criteria For Earning A Varsity Letter

Preface: The criteria for earning the MHS varsity letter have been established by the members of the Massabesic High School coaching staff. A philosophy underlies the criteria. The coaching staff believes that, for students at our school, earning a varsity letter should require evidence of commitment to team and expertise in sport. Measuring expertise is not a science. Nonetheless, we have well-defined standards for the sake of uniform decision-making. The criteria are set according to standards the coaching staff believes are high, yet reasonable. The policies are intended to encourage students to persevere toward the goal of earning the varsity letter rather than to discourage or belittle anyone who fails to attain the standards. All coaches are invited to participate in the process of adopting and amending the criteria. Suggestions for change must be recommended by a coach and are adopted only upon approval of a majority of the full coaching staff.

The Athletic Awards for Massabesic High School shall be as follows: 1. Varsity – green/gold chenille “M” will be awarded the first time a student-athlete achieves the varsity award in any sport. A Varsity letter certificate and a small gold emblem (pin) designating the sport in which the letter was won will also be awarded for each season the student-athlete achieves the varsity award. 2. Sub-Varsity – A participation certificate will be awarded.

General Policies 1. Varsity athletes who remain as members of the team in good standing throughout the full season are eligible to earn a varsity letter, subject to the provisions below. 2. Senior athletes who have participated in a given program (varsity or junior varsity) for at least three years shall receive a varsity letter. 3. Injured athletes who meet the “playing time” criteria for the contests held up to the time of the injury may receive a letter. 4. Managers who have held the position for at least two seasons in the same sport may earn a letter. Only those who, in the judgment of the coach, have made a significant commitment of time and effort shall be awarded the letter. 5. Any student involved in the athletic program who does not receive a letter will receive a certificate of participation. 6. In cases of extenuating circumstances, exceptions to the standards listed below are permitted with the approval of the coach and the athletic director. 7. PLAYING TIME CRITERIA FOR EACH SPORT a. Baseball & Softball: participate in 50% of innings played b. Basketball & Football: participate in 50% of quarters played c. Cross Country: must earn 5 points per season, top seven runner, run at regionals and states. d. Golf: participate in 50% of team matches played e. Soccer / Lacrosse: participate in 50% of halves played f. Swimming & Diving: Score 10 points during the season / Qualify for the State meet. g. Tennis: participate in #1-6 flite singles or #1-3 flite doubles for at least 50% of the matches played

18 h. Track & Field / Indoor Track and Field Score a total of points equal to the number of meets OR Qualify for the regional or state meet. i. Wrestling: participate in 50% of the team’s matches j. Cheerleading: varsity members must cheer in at least 85% of the games and attend 85% of the practices.

Assumption and Acknowledgement of Risk Even though interscholastic athletics offers many benefits to the participants, it is recognized that there are dangers that may lead to injury. This statement is to make all the student athletes and their parents aware that dangers do exist and that participation is voluntary with the understanding that risks are involved in all sports. It is to be understood that student athletes must share in the responsibility for their own safety and the safety of others as each participates in Massabesic’s interscholastic athletic program. The student athlete who participants in the interscholastic athletic program could mildly, moderately or severely injure the anatomy of the following: muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, skin, teeth, and any vital organ. Catastrophic injuries of death and permanent paralysis may also occur during athletic participation. There is not an absolute preventative against any of the mentioned potential injury sites.

Parental Code of Ethics The purpose of this Code of Ethics is to help you make a commitment to yourself, your child and everyone else you come in contact with during your child’s athletic experience. Take the time to read each of these statements and truly make a commitment to adhering to them to the best of your ability. I will always keep in mind that it is a privilege, rather than a right, for my child to participate in a sport.

I will always model good sportsmanship at competitions by the way I treat all athletes, coaches, officials and other fans.

I will insist that my child always demonstrate good sportsmanship and treat other athletes, coaches and officials with respect.

I will always teach my child how to win and lose with grace by the way I act in each of those situations.

I will always teach my child the importance of competing with integrity and will not help him or her cheat in any manner.

I will always remember that while I am not an athlete, I am representing my child’s team at competitions.

I will always strive to work with my child’s coach and not against him or her.

If I have an issue with a coach, I will always approach him or her in an appropriate manner.

I will always refrain from coaching my child immediately before, during and immediately after competitions because of the potential negative effect it may have on my child’s performance.

I will always remember that I have had my opportunity in athletics and this experience is about my child.

I will have a basic understanding of the rules of my child’s sport. I will not provide an environment for my son/daughter to use alcohol, tobacco or any substances considered illegal or performance enhancing.

I will not interfere with a coach’s decision in regards to playing time. I understand playing time is an issue for the coach only.

I will not interfere with the coach’s ability to coach my child.

Parental Communication Letter

TO: MHS Athletes and Parents FR: Brendan Scully, Activities Director

RE: Parental Communication I would like to welcome you to the upcoming MHS athletic season. The coaching staff and I are delighted to be working with such fine young people. We have great expectations for them both as players and student athletes. Over the course of this year, situations may arise that need to be addressed by the coaching staff, player and or parent(s) according to a definite procedure. This document explains the procedure that will be used to address these situations. Because emotions are high directly after a game, event or team activity, it is important to avoid any potentially volatile situations between parents and the coaching staff. Often a cooling off period allows all parties to gain perspective on the situation. The MHS activities dept 24 hour policy is not to discuss with parents game results or decisions within 24 hours of the event. If a parent needs to voice a concern, the parent should schedule a meeting with the head coach that will occur after 24 hours has passed. If a parent cannot wait and must voice their concern prior to the passage of 24 hours, then the Activities Director will determine when a meeting will take place after he/she believes there has been a cooling off period and the meeting will be productive, this may take as long as a week. The anticipated situations are playing time, role on the team, and development. These are situations that must be handled between the player and the coaching staff. Although we appreciate your interest and the support of the MHS athletic program, the coach must make the decisions in these areas. In order for proper communication, the following procedures must be followed to address any of the noted situations or other issues that may arise.

STEP ONE: The player and the coach will have a meeting to address and discuss the players concern. The player must request the meeting, preferably before the beginning of practice. The staff will answer all the players concerns. STEP TWO: If the player continues to have questions concerning the same situation in step one; the player must require a step 2 meeting. The player and coach will meet again. At this meeting, they will discuss the concerns and the coach will determine if parental participation will be productive. STEP THREE: If the player remains dissatisfied with the coach’s response in step 1 and 2 the player will request a meeting via the coach to meet with the coach, parent and athletic director. All people involved will meet and try to come to a common understanding. Hopefully, by adopting and implementing this procedure, it will help to promote a clear and fair resolution to issues and concerns. Sincerely Brendan Scully Activities Director RSU #57

POSITION OF STATEMENT ON DIETARY AND OTHER ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE ENHANCING DRUG SUPPLEMENTS

The use of any drug, medication, or food supplement for the purpose of performance enhancement is ethically wrong. In order to minimize health and safety risks for student athletes, maintain ethical standards, and reduce liability risks, school personnel and coaches should never supply, recommend, or encourage the use of any drug, medication, or food supplement for performance and enhancement purposes. Items on the NCAA/World Anti-Doping Agency list of banned substances are prohibited.

MPA EJECTION RULE

In all team and individual sports (varsity or subvarsity), ejection or disqualiﬁcation from a game, meet, or match for unsportsmanlike behavior of any form, by a coach or a player shall result in the suspension of that player or coach. The coach or player ejected from a contest must sit out all contests at all levels until the coach or athlete completes the ejection penalty by sitting out the next game at the level from which he/she was ejected. This rule applies to a game, meet, or match suspended before completion as well as a completed contest. This penalty may not be served by sitting out an exhibition, sub-varsity, or other competition. A suspended coach may not be present at the game site. Not being physically present at the site means the disqualiﬁed coach is not to be present in the locker room, on the sidelines, in the stands, or site area before, during, or after the game/meet.

Any coach or player ejected from the last game, meet, or contest of a sports season shall serve a one game suspension in the opening countable game, meet, or contest in the next varsity sport in which he/she participates. He/she may participate in preseason contests prior to serving the suspension.

MPA Transfer Rule A. A student, who transfers enrollment to another school without a corresponding change of residence by his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s), may become eligible to participate in interscholastic activities if a Transfer Waiver Approval Form (Appendix W) is properly ﬁ led with the MPA ofﬁ ce, with the sending and receiving principals certifying that the transfer was not primarily for athletic purposes. The waiver will become effective upon approval by the MPA Executive Director or the approval of the Eligibility Committee at its next regularly scheduled meeting should the Executive Director refer the request to said committee. The student will become eligible on the date the waiver request is approved by the Executive Director or the Eligibility Committee. Either

22 member school may appeal the Executive Director’s decision to the Eligibility Committee and ultimately to the Interscholastic Management Committee.

In the instance of foreign students who are otherwise eligible, the signature of the exchange agency contact person may be substituted for the sending principal’s signature when that signature cannot be obtained in a timely fashion.

For the purposes of the transfer rule, “primarily” shall mean that the student would not have transferred and/or would not have sought to transfer “but for” athletic purposes.

B. A student declared ineligible due to the transfer rule shall be eligible to participate only after being in attendance at the new school for three hundred sixty-ﬁve (365) consecutive calendar days which will commence with the ﬁrst day of attendance at the new school.

C. In the “special situations” described below, this transfer rule shall not apply and the eligibility of the student may not be challenged.

1. Students placed in a school by outside governmental agencies; or as the result of federal or state statutes (e.g., State Department of Human Services, Pupil Evaluation Teams, their school district, medical referrals) become eligible upon registration and enrollment in the receiving school.

2. A student of divorced or legally separated parents who moves into another school district with one of the aforementioned parents and enrolls in a school in the district to which said parent has moved within four weeks of the time said parent moves into the district, will be eligible upon registration assuming compliance with Article II, Section 2K.

3. A student whose parents move out of the school district may continue to be eligible in the same school provided enrollment is unbroken.

4. A student who returns from service in the armed forces to the school in which s/he was enrolled prior to serving in the armed forces is eligible immediately if s/he meets all other eligibility requirements.

D. Legal Guardianship 1. For the purpose of the transfer rule, a legal guardian is one who is entrusted by law with the care of a student.

2. If a student transfers from one school to another and a new legal guardian is appointed for the student, the student is in violation of the transfer rule and is thus ineligible except for Subsections A or C-1 above. 23

E. All requests for a ruling on the transfer rule shall be presented ﬁrst to the Executive Director, then Eligibility Committee, which in its discretion, may waive, but not shorten, the time requirement of subsection B above.

Massabesic High Requirements for Student-Athlete Participation

1. Registration- Preferred method at rsu57.revtrak.net 2. Baseline ImPact Test- Administered by Athletic Trainer 3. Physical Evaluation (Only if you do not have an up to date physical. Form goes to doctor) *Athletes must have a physical exam every 2 years and cannot run out during the season. 4. Insurance Information Must Be Provided / School Insurance is available. 5. Passing all courses at each grade check; Final semester grades and progress report grades.

Sign-up and Communication Process 1. The Head Coach will conduct an initial sign-up prior to each sports season. At that time candidates will be apprised of all requirements for participation and provided with any outstanding paperwork. 2. The Head Coach will provide the athletic director with a copy of the initial sign-up list. 3. The athletic administrator will screen the eligibility list to ensure that all candidates for athletics have met Massabesic High and MPA academic standards. He will communicate any issues or problems with both the coach and the student-athlete. 4. Coaches may hold one preseason organizational meeting for the purpose of conducting additional sign-ups and preparing for the upcoming season. Any students attending the organizational meeting who are not on the initial sign-up list should be directed to the athletic administrator. 5. All registrations, participations fees and permission forms are completed online through RevTrak.. After documenting receipt of this registration the AD will then turn over all health history and physical examination forms to the athletic trainer. 6. Using the confidential health list provided by the school nurse, the athletic administrator will develop a list of students with specific health needs. This list will be communicated to both the coach and the athletic trainer. 7. The athletic trainer and/or school nurse will provide coaches with any additional information or training that they require (ex. handling of epi-pens, inhalers) as needed. 8. The athletic administrator will update coaches as registrations are completed and submitted. 9. Coaches will not allow students to participate unless all of the following criteria are met: a. Academically eligible b. Permission Forms completed (eligibility booklet) c. Health History Form completed d. Physical Examination valid e. Proof of Insurance 10. Head coach will provide the AD with a copy of any team handbooks provided to participants. I encourage each coach to have a team handbook outlining expectations for their specific program.

Preseason Parent Information Meeting At the beginning of the fall, the Massabesic High athletic Department will host a parent informational meeting. At that time, the athletic administrator will make a presentation to the large group regarding school policies for athletics and may invite an additional guest speaker for a special presentation. At the conclusion of the large-group presentation, there will be breakout sessions for each sport. The head coach is expected to be in attendance for the program. At the time of the breakout session, the coach should share any information related to his or her sport program with parents in attendance. Such items are program philosophy, safety concerns, practice routines, and communication protocols should be reviewed at that time.

The Massabesic Athletic Boosters The Boosters raise money at home athletic contests and other events by selling concessions. The proceeds garnered from these efforts are utilized to provide supplemental funding for student athletics. Coaches have an opportunity to utilize Booster money through this process. The head coach will submit to the athletic administrator in writing a request detailing their needs. The athletic director will approve/disapprove the request. If the request is approved, it will be passed on to the boosters for their approval or disapproval. rd The Massabesic Boosters meet on the 3 Monday of the month at 6pm in the High School Media Center. All are welcome to attend.

BONAFIDE TEAM RULE

MPA BONA FIDE TEAM RULE EXPLANATION

A member of a school team is a student athlete who is regularly present for and actively participates in team practices and competitions. Bona fide members of a school team are prevented from missing high school practice or competition to compete or practice elsewhere.

1. Two waivers per student athlete per sport season may be granted by the principal on a case-by-case basis. 2. This policy is not intended to restrict dual sport participation in schools that allow dual participation. 3. Penalty for violation of this policy: st 1 Violation- Report violation to MPA office, suspension from play for one game/contest nd 2 Violation- Report violation to MPA office, removal from team for remainder of season

I ______am asking for permission for a single waiver of the Bona Fide Team Rule.

Date(s): ______

Place and description of activity: ______

I understand that upon return it is the Coaches discretion as to how I am worked back into the team’s practice.

Student Signature: ______

Student Name (Print Clearly): ______

Parent Signature: ______

MHS Principal Signature: ______

MHS Athletic Director Signature: ______

HAZING Maine statute defines injurious hazing as “any action or situation, including harassing behavior, that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of any school personnel or a student enrolled in a public school.”

Injurious hazing activities of any type, either on or off school property, by any student, staff member, group or organization affiliated with this school unit, are inconsistent with the educational process and shall be prohibited at all times.

“Harassing behavior” includes acts of intimidation and any other conduct that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health of a student or staff member.

“Acts of intimidation” include extortion, menacing, direct or indirect threats of violence, incidents of violence, bullying, statements or taunting of a malicious and/or derogatory nature that recklessly or intentionally endanger the mental or physical health of another person, and property damage or theft.

No administrator, faculty member, or other employee of the school unit shall encourage, permit, condone, or tolerate injurious hazing activities. No student, including leaders of students’ organizations, shall plan, encourage, or engage in injurious hazing activities.

Students who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action which may include suspension, expulsion, or other appropriate measures. Administrators, professional staff, and all other employees who violate this policy may be subject to disciplinary action up to and including dismissal.

In the case of an organization affiliated with this school unit that authorizes hazing, penalties may include rescission of permission for that organization to operate on school property or to receive any other benefit of affiliation with the school unit.

Persons not associated with this school unit who fail to abide by this policy may be subject to ejection from school property and/or other measures as may be available under the law.

These penalties shall be in addition to any civil or criminal penalties to which the violator or organization may be subject.

The Superintendent/designee shall be responsible for administering this policy. In the event that an individual or organization disagrees with an action—or lack of action—on the part of the Superintendent/designee as he/she carries out the provisions of this policy, that individual or organization may appeal to the Board. The ruling of the Board with respect to the provisions of this policy shall be final.

This right to appeal does not apply to student suspensions of 10 days or less or to matters submitted to grievance procedures under applicable collective bargaining agreements.

Massabesic High School and Massabesic Middle School

RevTrak online registration and participation fee payment

1. Go to www.rsu57.org 2. Click on: Online payment and registration fees for student athletes 3. Click on website at bottom: ex: https://rsu57.revtrak.net 4. Brings you to Massabesic Web Store 5. Click on either High School or Middle School button 6. All sports are listed for school 7. Make selection by clicking on sport 8. When sport comes up click on click here to register to this class 9. If NEW customer create an account. If RETURNING follow steps 10. Click on add a participant 11. Permission form needs to be filled out completely 12. Emergency card needs to be filled out completely 13. Pay fee 14. At end a receipt can be printed out 15. Log out

Congratulations, registration is complete!

ATHLETIC TRAINING

The RSU 57 Board of Directors provides athletic training services at MHS and MMS for athletes participating in interscholastic athletics for the purpose of educating student-athletes and preventing and treating injuries to student-athletes while participating in school-related athletic events and programs. I consent to the athletic trainer treating injuries and discussing any injuries or medical conditions with coaches, school staff and other qualified health care providers as deemed necessary within their scope of practice. I understand that in the case of injury or illness requiring transportation to a health care facility, every attempt will be made to contact me (parent/guardian) but that, if necessary, the student-athlete will be transported via ambulance to the nearest hospital.

I understand that the athletic trainer has the authority to restrict or deny participation due to the medical condition of the athlete. Clearance to return to play must be provided by an MD, DO, Physicians Assistant or Nurse Practitioner and must specifically reference the injury of concern.

The school’s Athletic Trainer will have final determination when an athlete can return to play in all medical circumstances. (This includes concussion/head injuries.)