Student Athlete Handbook 2020-2021 I. Quick Facts & Contact Information (3) II. Mission Statements (4) • University • Department III. Governing Bodies (5) • National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics • Champions of Character • California Pacific Conference • Student Athlete Advisory Committee IV. Academics (7) • Academic Requirements • Mid Semester Grades • Freshman Competition Travel Policy • Study Table • Tutorial Policy • Student Athlete Learning Assistant Program • Student Athlete Learning Center • Academic Advising • Priority Registration • Academic Standing • Library V. Student Athlete Eligibility (12) • Athletic Participation • Initial Eligibility • Freshman Eligibility • Continuing Eligibility • Transfer Eligibility • Release Policy • Terms of Eligibility • Eligibility Infractions • Important Eligibility Notes VI. Student Athlete Conduct and Ethics (15) • Student Athlete Conduct & Responsibilities • Social Media Policy • Sportsmanship • Dress Code • Drug and Alcohol Policy • Tobacco Products • Gambling Policy • Harassment

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 1 of 30 • Hazing • Academic Integrity • Criminal Violation • Disciplinary Appeals Process • Student Athlete Hosts VII. Department Policies (21) • Athletic Equipment Policy • Travel Regulations • Selection and Dismissal of a Student Athlete • Attendance Policy • Procedure for Missed Classes Due to Competition • Media Guidelines VIII. Sports Medicine and Athletic Training (23) • General Information • Insurance Coverage • Procedures and Injury Management • Drug/Alcohol Education and Testing Policy • NAIA Banned Substances IX. Financial Aid (28) • General • Financial Aid Policy • Financial Aid Appeal • Athletic Grant in Aid • Federal Work Study X. Academic & Events Calendar (29)

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 2 of 30 Section I: Quick Facts & Contact Information Founded…………………………………………………….……………………………………………………..………2005 Address…………………………………………………..…………5200 North Lake Road, Merced, CA 95343 Enrollment……….………………………………………………...……………………………………………………8,900 Chancellor…………………………………………………………...………………..………Dr. Juan Sanchez Muñoz Nickname…………..…………………………………………………………………………………………………Bobcats Colors…………………………………………………………………...……………………………………….Navy & Gold Department Phone/Fax…………………….…….…………………. (209) CAT-TEAM / (209) 228-4064 Athletics Email………………………………………………………..…………………[email protected] Campus website……………………………………………………….………….……………. www.ucmerced.edu Athletic website………………………………………………………….….………www.ucmercedbobcats.com Athletics Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter…………………………….…...@ucmercedbobcats Affiliation…………………….…….……..……National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Conference…………………………………….…….……………………………………California Pacific (Cal Pac) Cal Pac Conference Members………………………………………...…… at Mesa …………………………………………………………………………………California State University, Maritime ………………………………………………………………………………Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. ………………………………………………………………………………………Marymount California University ………………………………………………………………………………………………………… …………………………………………...………………………………………………………… Gilbert ……………………………………………………………………………………………..Providence Christian College ……………………………………………………………………………………………….....Sierra University ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. ……………………………………………………………………………………………….Soka University of America …………………………………………………………………………………………….University of Antelope Valley ……………………………………………………………………………….…………….University of Saint Katherine ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….. Men’s Varsity Programs……………………………….Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer & Volleyball Women’s Varsity Programs……………….…………Basketball, Cross Country, Soccer & Volleyball Athletic Facilities, Indoor……………………………...….….Hostetler Court (Basketball & Volleyball) Outdoor……………………………………………………………………………….………….. Bobcat Field (Soccer) Athletics Contact Information……………………………………………………...Full Athletics Staffing List

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 3 of 30 Section II: Mission Statements

University Mission Statement The University of California, Merced's mission is embodied in its proud claim of being the first American research university of the twenty-first century. As the tenth campus of the University of California, UC Merced will achieve excellence in carrying out the University's mission of teaching, research and service, benefiting society through discovering and transmitting new knowledge and functioning as an active repository of organized knowledge. As a key tenet in carrying out this mission, UC Merced promotes and celebrates the diversity of all members of its community. A research university is a community bound by learning, discovery and engagement. As the first American student-centered research university of the twenty-first century, UC Merced's strong graduate and research programs will mesh with high quality undergraduate programs. New knowledge increasingly depends on links among the disciplines, working together on questions that transcend the traditional disciplines. UC Merced fosters and encourages cross-disciplinary inquiry and discovery. Interdisciplinary practice in research will nourish undergraduate learning, building a foundation in connecting the ways that academic disciplines understand and grapple with society's problems. Undergraduates will experience education inside and outside the classroom, applying what they learn through undergraduate research, service learning and leadership development. As apprentice scholars, graduate students will build their understanding of and ability to do independent research in their chosen field, as the groundwork for entering professional life. Lifelong learners will continue to hone their knowledge and workplace skills. The twenty-first century has opened with the promise of new ways of connecting people to new knowledge and to one another. UC Merced opens as a network, not simply a single place, linking its students, faculty and staff to the educational resources of the state, nation and world. The idea of network extends to UC Merced’s relationships with neighboring institutions: educational, cultural and social. Born as a member of the distinguished network known as the University of California, UC Merced seeks strong and mutually supportive relationships with a variety of collaborators in its region: public and private colleges and universities; federal and state organizations that share UC Merced’s educational and research goals; and cultural and social institutions. The idea of network will also be realized through the physical and intellectual integration between UC Merced and its surrounding community. The campus is planned as a model of physical sustainability for the twenty-first century, inviting all members of the campus and surrounding community to think and act as good stewards of the environment that they will convey to future generations. UC Merced celebrates its location in the San Joaquin Valley, reflecting the poetry of its landscape, history, resources and diverse cultures, while capitalizing on and expanding the Valley's connections to the emerging global society. UC Merced recognizes that research that begins with the natural laboratory at home can extend what is known in the state, nation and world.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 4 of 30 Department Mission Statement UC Merced Recreation and Athletics Department provides recreational and athletic opportunities for our students to lead healthy, engaging lifestyles that enhance student success, promote individual wellbeing, and foster a commitment to lead and serve the community.

Section III: Governing Bodies

National Association for Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) The purpose of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics is to promote the education and development of students through intercollegiate athletic participation. Member institutions, although varied and diverse, share a common commitment to high standards and the principle that athletics serve as an integral part of an education. The student, as the central focus of intercollegiate athletics, shall: accept the responsibility to become an effective, contributing member of society, perform as a positive role model on the campus and in the wider community, fulfill academic responsibilities while progressing steadily toward meeting the requirements for a degree and maintain eligibility for participation in every athletic contest.

Champions of Character Champions of Character is a nonprofit organization with the mission to change the culture of sports. They seek to replace the current cycle of cheating, trash talking, taunting and out of control behaviors found in today’s sports culture with integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership. These Five Core Values are defined as: • Integrity: Internal traits that guide behavior • Respect: Treating others the way you want to be treated • Responsibility: The social force that binds me to the good of the team • Sportsmanship: Following the rules, spirit, and etiquette of athletic competition • Servant Leadership: Serving the greater good while focusing on the team’s mission and purpose Champions of Character program instills an understanding of character values in sport and provides practical tools for student athletes, coaches and parents to use in developing exemplary character traits. The objectives include: • To provide opportunities for the Champions of Character process to be incorporated into athletic programs. • To increase the number of athletic programs intentionally teaching character. • To increase the number of parents and adult role models who are trained on how to give proper support and be positive influences on young men and women. • To positively impact the character development of students.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 5 of 30 California Pacific Conference (Cal Pac) The purpose of the Cal Pac is to assist in the educational development of students through intercollegiate athletic participation, namely: 1. To ensure that intercollegiate athletics is an integral part of the total educational offerings. 2. To cultivate the broadest possible student involvement in the athletics programs. 3. To maintain high ethical standards in the operation of the athletics program and in the conduct of student athletes. 4. To foster wholesome competition among institutions with similar education and athletic philosophies, while providing for rivalry, competition, and championships. 5. To promote gender equity while respecting institutional diversity. 6. To encourage common relationships among the member institutions and their various constituents. 7. To support competition through agreed upon conference standards. 8. To enhance the opportunity for greater public recognition and media exposure. 9. To collect, disseminate and preserve conference, team, and individual records. Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) The 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 athletes’ lives on the UC Merced campus and within the NAIA. The mission of the University of California Merced Student Athlete Advisory Committee is to enhance the student athlete experience by developing leadership skills, protecting student athletes’ well-being, acting as a liaison between student athletes and administration and fostering a sense of community. The purpose of the SAAC includes: • To generate a student athlete voice within the institution. • To solicit student athlete response to current or proposed rules, regulations and policies. • Assist in organizing student athlete events. • To create an avenue for student athlete representation on campus, conference-wide and nationally. 2021-2022 Student Athlete Advisory Committee Officers include: • President: Lance Nua, Junior, Men’s Volleyball • Vice President: Corbin Farias, Junior, Men’s Cross Country • Secretary: Lacey Gallagher, Senior, Women’s Volleyball • Marketing Chair: Vacant • Community Outreach Chair: Olivia Harden, Senior, Women’s Volleyball

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 6 of 30 Section IV: Academics

Academic Requirement Each student must maintain at least a 2.00 cumulative GPA to be eligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics at UC Merced. • Any student athlete falling below a 2.3 cumulative GPA or during any semester must meet with their coach to discuss methods and plans for improvement. The coach on a case-by-case basis may access specific additional requirements. Additional requirements may include: 1. A mandatory meeting to include an athletics administrator. 2. Development of an academic progress plan. 3. Secondary meeting to measure the success and continued attention to the academic progress plan. 4. The ability for administrators and/or coaches to schedule additional study table hours, workshops, or tutoring sessions for the student athlete. 5. The ability for administrators and/or coaches to suspend and/or expel student athlete from practices, travel, games, team events, and/or team affiliation.

Mid Semester Grades Mid-Semester grades are not recorded on your transcript and do not affect your GPA, rather, they are a “progress report” from your instructors to help you know how you are doing at the mid-point of the semester. In collaboration with Academic Advisors, athletics will hold mid-semester grade interventions each semester for students who receive the following mid-semester grades: • 1 D/F/NP – must complete online workshop and questionnaire (freshman only) • 2 D/F/NP – must meet with Senior Associate Director of Athletics • 3+ D/F/NP – must meet with Senior Associate Director of Athletics AND Academic Adviser

Freshman Competition Travel Policy (exception to Academic Policy above) Eligible freshman student athletes with a GPA between 1.69 and 1.99 are allowed to compete in all home competitions. Student athletes in this group with a GPA between 1.8 and 1.99 are allowed to compete in away competitions that do not result in missed classes. Student athletes must provide evidence to their coaches that they will not miss class for a given away competition. Student athletes with a GPA below a 1.8 GPA may not travel to nor compete at away competitions. Student athletes with a GPA above 2.0 are eligible to travel to away competitions.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 7 of 30 Study Tables Study tables are a time for student athletes to devote to their academics. Study tables provide student athletes with a quiet, supportive place to study, learn and complete coursework requirements. If assigned study table hours, it is the responsibility of the student athlete to complete the hours administrated by the athletic department, or make specific arrangements with the Associate Director of Athletics if conflicts arise. Study tables have been proven as an effective way to ensure student athletes academic success, thus, student athletes must attend mandated hours as listed below: Freshmen must attend: • 6 minimum hours first semester per week. • 3 minimum hours second semester per week Continuing student athletes: • Cumulative GPA below 2.3 must attend a minimum of 3 hours per week. • GPA in any semester below 2.3 must attend 3 hours per week during the following semester regardless of cumulative GPA. Transfer student athletes: • 3 minimum hours first semester per week. NOTE: Additional hours may be (and often are) mandated by coaches or athletics administration based on academic success plans, higher team minimums, etc. Study Table Hours Scheduling: 1. Study table hours are required to be completed in the Student Activities and Athletics Center (SAAC) and monitored by study table supervisors during the scheduled days and times. 2. If scheduled competition or practice times/days conflicts with study tables’ schedule, it is the responsibility of the student athlete to contact the Student Athlete Service Assistant or their Head Coach to make prior arrangements to complete required hours each week. Coaches are permitted to conduct study table sessions with their team or on an individual basis but must inform the Student Athlete Services Assistant of said hours completed. 3. Student athletes are required to complete all required hours unless otherwise informed by the Associate Director of Athletics and/or the occurrence of University holidays. o During weeks that contain a University holiday, when study tables are not held, student athletes are required to complete half of the required study table hours unless otherwise posted. 4. Study tables are not required during official University breaks (summer and winter). Study tables will begin during the second or third week of every semester and are required through the start of dead week. Study tables are not required during dead week or finals week. 5. Student athletes may receive additional study table credits by attending professor’s office hours*, Calvin E. Bright Success Center workshops*, Peer Assisted Learning

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 8 of 30 Support (PALS)*, STEM sessions*, The Math Center* or through the Student Athlete Learning Assistant program. * In order to receive study table credit the student athlete must turn a Student Athlete Academic Submission Slip. 6. Student athlete academic submission slips must be completed by the student athlete and signed by one of the following individuals: a. Authorized Academic Personnel (includes but not limited to) ▪ Peer Assisted Learning Support ▪ STEM Resource Center Tutors ▪ The Math Center Tutor ▪ The Chemistry Center b. Bright Success Center Workshop Personnel c. Professors / Teaching Assistants d. Coaches or Athletic Administrators 7. Slips must be returned to the receptionist desk located in the SAAC by each Friday at 5:00pm. o Late submissions will not be counted towards hours. 8. The Associate Director of Athletics may approve alternate study locations and times for extenuating circumstances. Study Table Rules: • Students are to be respectful and courteous to all present in room • No talking • For any reason that you leave the room you must sign out and sign back in upon return o Sign out if leaving room for the restroom, phone calls, athletic training room, dorm room, DC, etc. • Attempts to manipulate/alter hours will result in no hours being counted o Helping others falsify hours is prohibited o Must have and use your own CatCard to check in/out • No outside guest(s) may accompany student athletes to study tables • Non-academic activities (web browsing, extended cell phone use, social networking, movies/videos, games, etc.) are prohibited • The study table supervisors’ discretion is the final word on non-study activities

Tutorial Policy Tutors are available on campus in a variety of subject areas to help students to achieve academically. The Peer Assistant Learning Support (PALS), STEM, The Math Center (TMC) and the Student Athlete Learning Assistant (SALA) programs are available to facilitate and support student athlete learning.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 9 of 30 Student athletes are required to seek tutorial assistance from PALS, STEM or TMC before requesting assistance from a SALA. For drop in tutoring schedule see: • Peer Assisted Learning Support (PALS): http://learning.ucmerced.edu/ • STEM Resource Center: http://stemresourcecenter.ucmerced.edu/ • The Math Center (TMC): http://mathcenter.ucmerced.edu/ • The Chemistry Center: http://chemcenter.ucmerced.edu/ If any of the alternative on campus resources’ availability conflicts with a student’s schedule, or if tutors are unavailable for a specific subject, and/or additional assistance is needed, then the student athletes should request a Student Athlete Learning Assistant. All SALA requests are made through the online request form. If a student athlete is scheduled for SALA sessions, it is their responsibility to be present, on time and attentive. If such actions do not occur, the privilege may be revoked.

Student Athlete Learning Assistant (SALA) Program The UC Merced Athletics department facilitates Student Athlete Learning Assistants (SALA’s) to assist student athletes in achieving independent growth as successful students. The primary function of the SALA is to provide positive, enriching and inspiring academic support and encouragement to student athletes beyond the classroom experience through individual and/or group tutoring. The objective is to provide supplemental academic support to existing campus support or where gaps exist related to the varied student athlete schedule. The SALA Program is available for any student athletes in good standing with team and department requirements/expectations.

Student Athlete Learning Center Location: Student Activities and Athletics Center (SAAC), Room 205 The primary function of the Student Athlete Learning Center is to provide a quiet workspace for student athletes to complete any academic assignments. Located in the learning center are several work space; from individual to group desks, couches, and a printer. The learning center is also the location for any SALA sessions held by the department. *Note: The hours spent in the learning center does not count for required study table hours.

Advising It is your responsibility as a UC Merced student to read and understand the UC Merced General Catalog, and to know and fulfill the requirements for graduation. Your Academic Advisor is available to you year-round to assist you as you plan the most successful and appropriate pathway to your academic and personal goals. You are strongly encouraged to visit an Academic Advisor each semester. Your Advisor is pleased to meet with you at any

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 10 of 30 time to assist you in navigating UC Merced’s student services, to discuss your successes, doubts, struggles, and future goals, and to refer you to the proper professionals whenever you can benefit from their assistance. Appointments are recommended, but you are welcome to visit during drop-in hours. In some cases, you may find that you are required to visit with an Advisor, due to special circumstances or concerns on the part of UC Merced regarding your academic performance. To find the name and office hours of your advisor refer online to http://advising.ucmerced.edu/.

Priority Registration All student athletes, with Athletic Administration approval on an intercollegiate athletic team roster will receive priority registration in coordinator with the university Registrar’s Office time ticketing system. Student athletes approved for priority registration will be permitted to register one business day prior to the start of the regular registration period.

Academic Standing Academic Probation An undergraduate student will be placed on academic probation if at the end of any term the student's grade-point average is less than 2.0, but not less than 1.5, for the term – OR – is less than 2.0 for all courses taken within the University of California. Minimum Progress An undergraduate student is subject to administrative probation if the student does not complete a minimum of 24 University of California units during an academic year, including summer. In order to return to good standing the student must complete 24 units during a subsequent academic year, the student’s minimum progress status returns to good standing. Note: Minimum unit completion does not apply to part-time students or to students who have a Dean’s approval to carry fewer units than the minimum progress load (reasons may include medical disability, employment, a serious personal problem, a recent death in the immediate family, the primary responsibility for the care of a family, or a serious accident involving the student). Academic Dismissal An undergraduate student is subject to academic dismissal from the university if one of the following occurs: (1) The student has been on academic probation for two or more semesters and the student’s cumulative grade point average is less than 2.0 – OR – (2) The student’s semester grade point average is less than 1.5 and the student’s cumulative grade point average is less than 2.0. Academic Dismissal Appeals: A student not previously on probation who earns a semester grade point average below 1.5 may be offered the opportunity to appeal dismissal. The student who is subject to academic dismissal and does not complete the appeal process as

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 11 of 30 prescribed is automatically dismissed. The student whose appeal is approved returns on probation and is under the supervision of the appropriate School or advising unit. Dismissal Status: When a student is academically dismissed, the university notifies the student, and the student’s official transcript states “Academic Dismissal” for the affected semester. Note: A student who is academically dismissed may return after fulfilling reinstatement requirements. Reinstatement Reinstatement is the act of restoring active-student status to former students who have withdrawn from the University, had their student matriculation interrupted by a lapse of their student status (for failure to pay fees, failure to satisfy the entry level writing requirement, failure to enroll in future semesters, or failure to graduate), or who left the University in academic difficulty (academic probation, subject to academic dismissal, or academically dismissed). Undergraduate students who wish to return to the University of California, Merced must file an application for reinstatement with the Office of the Registrar. Students should begin the process of reinstatement at least six weeks before the deadline. Submitting the application, along with the nonrefundable application fee of $70.00 as early as possible will provide enough time to review the application and have a reinstated student register before new incoming students are scheduled to register for classes. Students who do not enroll in the semester to which they are reinstated must file a new reinstatement application and pay the application fee to return in a future semester. More information may be found at http://admissions.ucmerced.edu/appeal.

Library The UC Merced Library is located in the Kolligian Library building, principally on the second-through-fourth floors of the building’s East Wing as well as on the first-through- fourth floors of the “Lantern.” On the second floor of the Lantern students can check out books as well as laptops with the use of their Cat Cards. Also throughout the library there is both wireless and wired network access.

Section V: Student Athlete Eligibility

Athletic Participation Participation in any intercollegiate athletic team competitions will require department verification of the following items: • Identified and enrolled in a minimum of 12 institutional credit hours. • Signed copy of the NAIA Certification of Clearance on file with the athletic department. • Official Eligibility Certification and approval by the Associate Director of Athletics. • Copy of primary health insurance card on file with head athletic trainer.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 12 of 30 • Proof of current physical examination by personal physician or UC Merced approved physician and clearance by the head athletic trainer. • Signed copies of UC Merced Medial Releases are on file with the athletic department.

Initial Eligibility All students interested in participating in NAIA intercollegiate athletics competition at UC Merced for the first time need to register with the NAIA Eligibility Center (PlayNAIA) and receive an eligibility determination. This applies to: • High school seniors • Current NAIA students who will play sports for the first time at an NAIA school • Transfers from two-year colleges • Transfers from four-year colleges (if never played previously in the NAIA) Submission of Online Profile with the NAIA Eligibility Center (www.playnaia.org) must be complete before a student athlete will be permitted to try out or practice with a UC Merced intercollegiate athletics team.

Freshman Eligibility In order to be eligible, an incoming freshman must meet two of the three National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) eligibility requirements: • ACT or SAT (critical reading and math) test score requirement of ACT 18 or SAT 970 if taken after May 1, 2019. • An overall high school grade point average of 2.000 or higher on a 4.000 scale. • Graduate in the upper half of the student’s high school graduation class. In order to continue full spring semester eligibility, freshman must pass at least nine credits of course work during the fall semester and have received at least a 2.0 on a 4.0 scale. Freshman receiving between a 1.6 and 2.0 should refer to the Freshman Travel Competition Policy in Section V for information regarding competition limits.

Continuing Eligibility To participate in a second, third or fourth season, each student athlete must: • be identified and enrolled in a minimum of 12 institutional credit hours at the time of participation; • have accumulated a minimum of 24 institutional credit hours in the two immediately previous terms of attendance (24-hour rule); • have accumulated at least 48 (3 seasons of competition) semester institutional credit hours or 72 (4 seasons of competition) semester institutional credit hours, at least 48 semester hours of which must be in general education and/or in the student’s major field of study (progress rule); • maintain a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of at least 2.0 on a 4.0 scale

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 13 of 30 Transfer Eligibility Previous Identification only at a junior college A student whose immediately previous identification and participation was with a two- year institution and who transfers to an NAIA member institution shall not be required to meet the 16-week residency requirement. The student shall fulfill all academic requirements of NAIA and is entitled to only four seasons of participation in a given sport at the intercollegiate level. In addition, student athletes transferring from a two-year institution must meet all of the continuing eligibility requirements as illustrated in the previous section. Previous Identification at a Four-year Institution A student who has participated in an intercollegiate contest at the immediately previous four-year institution and then transfers to UC Merced shall be required to be in residence for a period of 16 calendar weeks (112 calendar days) before being eligible for the sport(s) previously participated in at the four-year institution. A transfer student athlete may have this residency requirement waived if they receive a written release from the immediately previous four-year institution and if the student has a cumulative minimum overall GPA of 2.000 from this institution. Also, a student who has not participated in an intercollegiate contest at the immediately previous four-year institution is not subject to the residency period in that sport. In addition, student athletes transferring from a four-year institution must meet all of the continuing eligibility requirements as illustrated in the previous section.

Release Policy University of California, Merced Athletics has a no-release policy for those student athletes transferring to another California Pacific Conference institution planning to play the same sport in the following academic year. A 16-week residency is required per NAIA rules before they are allowed to compete. Any student athletes wishing to transfer and play at an institution outside of the California Pacific Conference will be reviewed on a case by case basis by athletics administration in determining a residency waiver request.

Terms (Length) of Eligibility Under NAIA eligibility rules, a student athlete has 10 full-time (12 credit hours) semesters to complete four seasons of eligibility. *Note: Summer semesters are not counted against a student athletes terms of attendance.

Eligibility Infractions Should an ineligible student athlete be discovered to have competed in a regular or postseason intercollegiate athletic contest the membership shall automatically: • Forfeit all contests in which the ineligible student participated.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 14 of 30 • Charge the ineligible student with a season of competition for participating while ineligible. • Charge the student with a second season of competition in that sport if the ineligible student re-establishes eligibility within the same season he student was declared ineligible and participates after re-establishing eligibility. • Cause a review of the case by the appropriate committees of the NAIA. The ineligible student may be assessed additional penalties up to being declared ineligible for further intercollegiate competition for withholding information or supplying false or incomplete information. Additional penalties, forfeits, etc. may be necessary due to the severity of the infractions. Repeat Courses All student athletes who are considering enrolling in any repeat courses must receive approval from the Associate Director of Athletics in advance. Repeat courses can have an impact on student athlete eligiblity. The Associate Director of Athletics will work with the student athlete to understand the implications of repeat courses on their eligibility. Dropped Courses Student athletes must have approval from the Associate Director of Athletics prior to dropping a course. Dropping courses may have an adverse impact on the eligiblity of student athletes. The Associate Director of Athletics will work with the student athlete to discuss the implications, if any, on their eligiblity if the course is dropped. *Important Eligibility Notes* All student athletes who are considering a Study Abroad program needs to inform the Senior Associate Director of Athletics at their earliest convenience to insure continuing eligibility.

Section VI: Student Athlete Conduct and Ethics

Student Athlete Conduct & Responsibilities It is important that all student athletes understand what their conduct and responsibilities are. It is a privilege to participate in the UC Merced athletic program, not a right. Consequently, the UC Merced Athletic Administration has set high expectations for student athlete behavior, listed below: 1. Understand and adhere to the code of conduct listed in the student athlete and university handbook. 2. Obey all federal, state, local laws and campus policies. 3. Student athletes are required to attend all practices, games, team travel, team bonding, community outreach and all other team-related activities by the direction of the coaching staff and/or athletics administration. 4. Do not use drugs, alcohol (if under 21 years of age) or tobacco products.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 15 of 30 5. Understand the overall philosophy of the athletic program. Act with class, pride, and dignity and represent the team, coach, Athletic Department, and UC Merced in a positive manner. 6. Understand and adhere to the protocol for medical and insurance policies. 7. Be familiar with the academic eligibility requirements set forth by UC Merced and the NAIA. 8. Exhibit sportsmanship at all times when practicing and competing. 9. Achieve and maintain optimal physical condition within accepted health standards. 10. Take proper care of equipment and return it in good condition at designated dates. 11. Treat visiting teams and officials with respect. 12. Help teammates, whenever possible, on and off the field and most importantly, with their schoolwork and projects. The success of a team depends on how much each student athlete puts in as an individual. 13. Take all academic progress reports and communications very seriously. When a coach issues you a report or letter, return it promptly with accurate and beneficial information. 14. Be accountable and responsible for your behavior in Student Housing. 15. Be on time to practice, meetings, class, and all Department functions. 16. Treat faculty, staff and all UC Merced employees with respect and common courtesy.

Social Media Policy Any electronic or online postings must be consistent with federal, state, and local laws, and team, department, University and NAIA standards, rules, regulations and policies. The athletic department will request a student athlete remove any online posts that may embarrass or show the athletic department in a negative light. Similar to in-person communication, the Athletic Department will not tolerate disrespectful, derogatory, damaging, or false commentary online. Illegal content or content showing illegal activities or activities that violate policy may result in additional discipline including potential dismissal from intercollegiate athletics. Considerations When Using Social Media: UC Merced supports and encourages individual expression of the First Amendment rights of free speech. At the same time, student athletes are representatives of the University and the athletic department. Student athletes should keep in mind when posting on social networking sites, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.: • Anything posted online (text, photos, or comments) is accessible to anyone. • Student athletes should not allow themselves to be photographed in a compromising situation. Anyone can post photos, leaving the athlete with little/no control over the content or usage of the photo. • Coaches, athletic department administrators, the NAIA, faculty, staff, and residential life can and do review these websites.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 16 of 30 • Student athletes should use caution about the information posted on websites (phone numbers, address or plans). Predators, such as stalkers, or thieves often use these sites to gain information about individuals. Social Media Privacy - California Senate Bill 1349 SB 1349 addresses the interaction between University staff and students as it pertains to social media. For the purpose of this law, social media is defined as “an electronic service, an electronic account, or electronic content, such as videos, photographs, blogs, podcasts, text messages, e-mail, internet web site profiles.” The law prohibits requiring or requesting a student either disclose a user name or password for accessing personal social media, access personal social media in the presence of an institution’s employee or representative, or divulge any personal social media information or disciplining or penalizing a prospective or current student or student group for refusing to comply with a request or demand that violates the law. In essence, SB 1349 prohibits University staff from sending friend requests on Facebook, requests to connect on Linked In, sending a request to follow a student on Twitter, or Instagram if the student has a private account. It also prohibits asking students for their usernames, account names, Twitter handles and other personal identifying information. Asking or requiring students to share email communications or text messages on personal e-mail or text message accounts is also prohibited. Requesting or requiring students to share photos, videos, emails stored on private cell phones, iPod, iPads or other mobile devices is also prohibited. University staff may accept unsolicited friend/connection/follow requests from student and/or prospective students. Reviewing publicly available social media content is permissible. University staff may promote and provide their social media information and let students know they are welcome to follow them on Twitter, Facebook or other social media.

Sportsmanship A competitive nature is encouraged; however, competitiveness should be directed towards opponents and teammates in a positive way. The athletic department discourages negative comments or rudeness directed towards specific athletes or officials. Student athletes are required to behave in a sportsmanship-like manner at all times, in and out of uniform, in the classroom, supporting other student athletes/teams at home or away and while traveling. Student athletes may not: • Come to athletic contests intoxicated or bring alcohol or other banned substances to the games. • Say/shout anything that is a personal attack and/or derogatory. • Fight or attempt to fight. • Incite participants or spectators to violent or abusive action. Student athletes showing poor sportsmanship will be asked to leave the event and may have additional consequences set forth by the athletic director.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 17 of 30

Dress Code Student athletes must be in proper UC Merced attire while attending/participating in a scheduled athletic event (practice, training, treatment). Attire must be in good condition and not altered in any way. Student athletes must adhere to travel dress code for all away games. Coaches may set specific dress code standards for their student athletes for home contests and when travelling as a team. Coaches may also specify what constitutes appropriate dress while representing the institution at media, fundraising and other athletic department related events.

Drug and Alcohol Policy Student athletes must conform to NAIA policies and regulations regarding the use of prescribed drugs. Failure to do so can jeopardize further collegiate eligibility. Further, the use of any drugs must be within the limits of federal, state, and local laws. Each student athlete is solely responsible for being aware of and obeying legal statutes that prohibit the use of various drugs. A. University policy prohibits alcoholic beverages from being sold, furnished, possessed by or given to any person under the age of 21. In addition, possession or transportation of open containers or consumption of alcoholic beverages is not allowed in public areas by any person, regardless of age. B. Student athletes will not drink, be under the influence of, or be in possession of alcohol during any intercollegiate event or practice. C. Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product and its label with your athletics department staff. Dietary supplements are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test result. Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk. For additional information regarding campus policy, see the UC Merced Student Policies and Regulations Handbook.

Tobacco Products UC Merced and University of California policy prohibits tobacco use on all UC property. Cigarettes, cigars, oral tobacco, electronic cigarettes, and all other tobacco products are prohibited from use on all properties owned or leased by UC Merced. In addition, the use of tobacco products by student athletes, coaches, officials and game personnel during practice and competition—at home or away—is prohibited. Tobacco products are also prohibited while traveling as part of an official department or team function.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 18 of 30 Gambling Policy Sports wagering has the potential to undermine the integrity of sports contests and the intercollegiate athletics community. Gambling is a violation of state law and university policy. Gambling includes but is not limited to: • Providing information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities concerning intercollegiate athletics competition. • Soliciting a bet on any intercollegiate or professional athletics game or competition. • Accepting a bet on any team representing the institution or participating in any gambling activities that involve intercollegiate athletics through a bookmaker, a parlay card or any other method employed by organized gambling. A student athlete who becomes aware of any gambling activities is expected to report these activities to their coach or athletic director.

Harassment UC Merced takes the issues of sexual assault and sexual harassment very seriously. Student athletes may receive information or advice or file an informal complaint or a formal grievance by contacting the campus Title IX/EEO/AA officer at (209) 285-9510 or email [email protected]. Additional information is available on the harassment and discrimination page of the Human Resources website.

Hazing Hazing is against the law. Campus hazing policies embody the University’s concerns for protecting the safety and welfare of students; these policies prohibit any method of initiation or pre-initiation into a campus organization or other activity engaged in by the organization or its members that humiliates or degrades or risks emotional and/or physical harm, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate. Any student who participates in hazing or being hazed will be held accountable under these policies. Individuals who are victims of hazing and report the incident to the Office of Student Conduct or athletics staff will be exempt from student disciplinary action. These rules apply to all registered student organizations, sports teams and student groups. Actions and activities that may constitute “hazing” include, but are not limited to: • Forcing, coercing or permitting one to participate in forms of physical activity not part of an organized, voluntary athletic contest or not specifically directed toward constructive work. • Requiring activities that are likely to cause physical harm to the individual. • Paddling, beating or otherwise permitting someone to hit another individual. • Requiring one to wear any degrading or uncomfortable garments.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 19 of 30 • Depriving one of the opportunity for sufficient sleep (six hours minimum per day), decent and edible meals, or access to means of maintaining daily bodily cleanliness. • Activities interfering with one’s academic efforts by causing exhaustion, loss of sleep or reasonable study time. • Requiring one to consume large amounts of food, alcohol, or other substances or beverage. • Forcing, coercing or permitting one to eat or drink foreign or unusual substances such as raw meat, raw eggs, salt water, onions, etc. • Throwing, pouring, or otherwise applying to the bodies or clothing of individuals, substances such as eggs, paint, honey, etc. • Morally degrading or humiliating games or other activities that make an individual the object of amusement, ridicule, or intimidation. • Kidnaps, road trips, or other activities that endanger the health and safety of an individual. • Subjecting one to cruel or unusual psychological treatment for any reason. • Depriving one of ‘sense of awareness’ (sight, sound, etc.) which may cause mental and/or physical stress.

Academic Integrity UC Merced supports the highest standards of honesty and academic integrity. Student athletes are expected to serve as leaders and role models. Academic dishonesty in any form will not be tolerated. Students should refer to the UC Merced Academic Honesty Policy overseen by Student Conduct for additional information.

Criminal Violation When a student athlete is charged with violating a local, state or federal law and the misconduct involves a violent action, illegal drugs, gambling, weapons(s) and/or any felony charges, the student athlete may be suspended from practice and/or competition in the intercollegiate athletics program until the charges have been addressed and/or adjudicated by the legal system.

Disciplinary Appeals Process In the interest of due process, a student athlete may request reconsideration of a decision to impose a disciplinary sanction or suspension with the Executive Director of Recreation & Athletics. Such requests must be in writing and submitted to the Executive Director within five (5) days after receipt of the notice of suspension. Based on information available to the Director of Athletics, the sanctions and/or suspension may be reversed or modified.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 20 of 30 Student Athlete Hosts Current student athletes may be asked to serve as hosts for prospective student athletes. As a host, a student athlete is considered a representative of UC Merced. If selected to be a host, the student athlete will receive emergency contact information to better serve the prospective student athlete. Under some circumstances a host may be given money to entertain the prospect. This money is ONLY for entertaining the prospect and must not be given to the prospect per NAIA rules. Receipts must be provided to the coach and/or the administrative support staff.

Section VII: Department Policies

Athletic Equipment Policy All student athletes are financially responsible for any and all equipment issued to them by UC Merced Athletics. All equipment must be accounted for and turned in upon completion of the season. If a student athlete quits or is removed from a team, he or she will have 48 hours to turn in any and all team issued equipment/apparel. The cost of department issued equipment/apparel that is lost, stolen, damaged or not returned will be added to the student athlete’s University bill in the business office. Any apparel or equipment not required to be returned (first-layer garments, kneepads, shoes, etc.) are for the primary use of UC Merced Athletics and the individual student athlete that it has been issued to. These items cannot be sold or donated to other parties and must be maintained by the student athlete they were issued to or should be returned to team inventory. Any misuse, selling, or donating of UC Merced Athletics equipment or apparel will result in disciplinary action and possible removal from the team.

Travel Regulations Team travel is a key component of the intercollegiate experience. Whenever the institution for an intercollegiate athletic competition or related activity provides transportation, the following regulations shall be adhered to with no exceptions: 1. Student athletes understand that an athletic road trip is a business trip, not a vacation. UC Merced student athletes will travel with one purpose in mind; to arrive at the site of competition prepared both physically and mentally to compete to the best of their ability. 2. Adhere to the official travel itinerary and directions of the head coach and/or coaching staff members throughout the travel period. Be on time and prepared to travel with the proper personal items. 3. On athletics road contests involving overnight lodging, participating student athletes, student trainers and/or student team managers are forbidden to: a. Engage in the use of alcoholic beverages or any illegal substance at any time during the duration of the road trip.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 21 of 30 b. Allow entry into the student athlete’s room of lodging by any person that is not a member of the official team travel party, unless prior permission has been given by the head coach. c. Incur charges for any incidentals at the place of lodging that are not personally paid for (i.e. phone calls, room service, in-room movies, soft drinks and/or snacks). Such charges incurred on a team’s official billing statement will result in the immediate suspension of the student athlete(s) traced to the room. The student athlete(s) will be held responsible for reimbursement in full. 4. Violation of the above travel policies may result in a participation suspension or dismissal from the intercollegiate athletic program. Selection and Dismissal of a Student Athlete Participation in intercollegiate athletics at UC Merced is a privilege, not a right. Each head coach has the authority to dismiss a student athlete from the team if the student athlete violates team rules, department rules, and/or other criteria that coaches have set forth for their program. In addition, the Executive Director of Recreation & Athletics may impose a suspension on a student athlete or dismiss a student athlete from a team for behavior or acts that merit such an action. All appeals of dismissal decisions must be made in writing to the Executive Director within seven days of dismissal date. The Executive Director will respond to the appeal within five business days.

Attendance Policy It is the responsibility of all UC Merced student athletes to attend their academic classes. Because student athletes may miss classes due to their intercollegiate competition obligations, it is essential that student athletes maintain superior attendance records at all times. If a student athlete is suffering from an illness and is unable to attend class, he or she is expected to make an appointment with the UC Merced Health Center, a private medical practitioner or the head athletic trainer to see the team doctor. Additionally, that particular student athlete should contact all of his or her professors immediately to discuss any missed class work. For extended absences related to injury or illness, the student athlete is required to contact the UC Merced Student Accessibility Services.

Procedure for Missed Classes Due to Competition The Athletics Department requires that students take the following steps to ensure missed class time due to athletic competition does not reflect on a grade: All student athletes will receive a letter (one per instructor) with an attached schedule of their prospective sport prior to the academic year. They are required to submit this letter to each academic instructor by the end of the first week of classes. The student should highlight the particular events with conflicts on the schedule. This gives the instructor the

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 22 of 30 opportunity to tell the student athlete whether such an arrangement is satisfactory and what adjustments the student athlete will have to make to successfully complete the course. In addition, it is the responsibility of the student athlete to remind the instructor one week in advance of each missed class, to ask what work can be done to compensate for missed days. It is the student athletes’ responsibility to analyze each class syllabi during the first week of the semester. If there is any potential for missing classes due to competition (or any question about the possibility of losing points due to absence), speak directly with your instructor about procedures for turning work in early or taking quizzes and/or exams early. If your instructor requires additional written or verbal verification, contact the Senior Associate Director of Athletics. For teams that advance to postseason competition, the Director of Athletics will prepare an additional letter detailing the circumstances. Copies of these letters will be available from the head coach for each student athlete to distribute to their professors.

Media Guidelines The UC Merced Sports Information Staff serves as a link between the UC Merced student athletes, coaches, administrators and the media. The Sports Information Staff attempts to provide timely and accurate coverage of UC Merced athletics by coordinating interviews, servicing the information needs of a reporter and compiling and maintaining statistics, photos and historical records. Each student athlete will be required to remember the below mentioned key points when representing UC Merced Athletics to the media or any other outside entity: 1. Student athletes will maintain a positive manner on themselves, the coach, team and department. 2. Student athletes will only participate in interviews that are organized by the athletic department administration. 3. Student athletes will not give out personal phone numbers or cell phone numbers unless cleared with athletic department administration. 4. Student athletes will be on time for scheduled interviews.

Section VIII: Sports Medicine and Athletic Training

Athletic Training Room General Information The athletic training staff utilizes two athletic training rooms. The main athletic training room is located in the Student Activities and Athletic Center and the satellite athletic training room in the Health and Athletics Center. Use of the athletic training facilities are exclusively for sports club and intercollegiate student athletes who have completed the required paperwork through the compliance department and passed a pre-participation physical exam. The regular business hours—in addition to event coverage and scheduled

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 23 of 30 practices—are posted and vary based on season. During the non-traditional seasons, it is recommended that student athletes use the regular business hours for evaluation of new injuries and daily rehabilitation sessions. The athletic training staff often utilizes the Student Health Center as a primary step in the care of the student athletes. The Student Health Center is open from 8:00am–4:30pm Monday through Friday. To allow time for treatment, rehabilitation, taping, etc., the student athlete needs to be in the athletic training room one hour prior to the team’s practice or event. The student athlete must comply with the treatment times established by their supervising athletic trainer. Since each athletic trainer and each team has individual needs, requirements by the supervising athletic trainer will be established and communicated to the team prior to the start of their season. The athletic training program uses a network of providers and specialists. In the event of an athletically related injury, the athletic training and medical staff evaluates and recommends a treatment plan. When services are pre-authorized by UC Merced staff, the program covers any expense within the network that the family’s insurance does not cover (e.g., co-payments and deductibles). The UC Merced insurance policy is secondary support to the student athlete’s insurance, which means that their insurance is primary and will be billed in every circumstance. Outside services will be authorized at the discretion of the athletic training staff or UC Merced health center physician. The UC Merced Recreation and Athletics department will cover only those injuries that are a direct result of intercollegiate athletic practice or play. Department policies prohibit the department from paying for surgeries that were not a direct result from practice or competition, as well as expenses that occur during unsupervised summer workouts. This means that non- athletically related injuries (car accidents, home and dorm accidents, illnesses) cannot be covered.

Insurance Coverage Student Athlete’s Primary Insurance: All students enrolled in UC Merced are required to have primary insurance, either through a private or parental policy or UC Merced’s UCSHIP program. The athlete’s primary insurance is responsible for medical costs incurred as a result of an intercollegiate athletics injury. UC Merced Student Intercollegiate Athlete Excess Insurance: UC Merced Recreation and Athletics is insured through an independent insurance agency for secondary, or excess, accident medical and dental expense coverage. This means it responds after the athlete’s primary insurance is utilized. UC Merced’s secondary athletic insurance policy is responsible for expenses up to $35,000 or a two-year period, whichever occurs first. There is also a $15,000 accidental death and dismemberment benefit for all qualified student athletes. UC Merced Catastrophic Insurance Coverage (Over $35,000 in expenses): If medical bills for a covered injury exceed $35,000 within two years from date of injury, catastrophic insurance will apply if student has no other medical coverage.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 24 of 30 Claims are subject to policy exclusions or limitations. COVERAGE IS NOT PROVIDED FOR AN ILLNESS OR DISEASE unless it results directly from a covered injury. Injuries that occurred before the athlete began participating in intercollegiate athletics are also excluded. Medical costs will be covered by the UC Merced secondary insurance provider, when the following conditions are met: a. The athlete is listed as a member of his/her respective team, the athlete has passed, and has on file, his/her medical history questionnaire that has been signed by a Medical Doctor, has completed, and has on file, the Intercollegiate Athletic Insurance Form, and has completed, and has on file, the Consent Forms. b. The injury is reported immediately or as soon as possible (but in no case later than 90 days after the injury) to the athletic trainer. c. A record of the injury is completed by the athletic trainer and a claim form has been completed by the athlete. d. The athlete has first submitted the claim to the primary insurance carrier. Once the primary insurance has covered its portion, all itemized bills, Explanation of Benefits or denial letters must be forwarded to the athletic training staff. Treatment must begin and medical expenses must be incurred within 90 days of the injury.

Procedures for Injury Management Student athletes are free to choose any medical provider they wish. However, in order for UC Merced Recreation and Athletics secondary coverage to respond to the claim the student must use the approved providers set by the UC Merced athletic training staff and UC Merced health center physicians, or obtain pre-authorization from a UC Merced athletic trainer or UC Merced physician to use a non-UC approved provider. If a student is injured while participating in intercollegiate athletics practice or play, the following procedures must be followed to ensure quick processing of the claim and prompt payment of all bills: 1. The student athlete must report any and all injuries to their assigned athletic trainer. The student and the athletic trainer will then discuss an appropriate course of action for the injury. The athletic trainer will discuss with the coach the determined course of action and decide together regarding any limitations for practices and competitions. The insurance will pay for services and referrals only if they have been pre-authorized by the athletic training staff. 2. Student athletes must sign in for all new injury evaluations and treatments. New injuries will be evaluated by the athletic trainer. Each new injury will be documented using Point and Click and an appropriate course of action will be taken. Action may include rehabilitation, physician’s visit, orthopedist visit, etc. 3. Rehabilitation programs will be conducted with the athletic trainer with the oversight of a physician. Coaching staff will be made aware of injury progress. The

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 25 of 30 athletic trainer, along with the physician when necessary, will determine if the student athlete is physically capable to practice and compete. 4. If pre-authorization is given for outside treatment, each visit must be pre- approved prior to making an appointment. 5. When the student receives the insurance carrier’s explanation of benefits, the student should bring a copy along with any bills to the athletic training staff so that any unpaid balances may be paid through athletics. The Recreation and Athletics department does not automatically receive copies of the bills. Collection agency action can result when bills are not promptly brought to the department’s attention. 6. Student athletes are required to notify the athletic training staff of any changes in the student’s/family’s insurance coverage to avoid any inconvenience in the event a student is injured and requires outside medical care. A complete copy of the Recreation and Athletics department policies and procedures are on hand in the office of the head athletic trainer and include policies on specific conditions and situations that may arise while competing at UC Merced.

Drug/Alcohol Education and Testing Policy UC Merced and the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) are dedicated to promoting and preserving the integrity of athletics for the benefit and welfare of student athletes. Each student athlete will be provided a National Championship Student Drug Testing From as a part of their onboarding process each academic year. Student athletes will also be provided the Medical Exemption Form, which is required for all student athletes with a medical condition which requires the use of a banned substance. Both forms will be kept on file with the athletic training staff. For more information, please visit the NAIA Drug testing webpage or contact your athletic trainer.

NAIA Banned Substances

A. The NAIA bans the following classes of drugs: 1. Stimulants. 2. Anabolic Agents. 3. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents. 4. Peptide Hormones and Analogues. 5. Anti-estrogens; and 6. Beta-2 Agonists. Note: Any substance chemically related to these classes is also banned. The institution and the student athlete shall be held accountable for all drugs within the banned drug class regardless of whether they have been specifically identified. B. Drug and Procedures Subject to Restrictions: 1. Blood Doping. 2. Local Anesthetics (under some conditions).

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 26 of 30 3. Manipulation of urine samples. 4. Beta-2 Agonists permitted only by prescription and inhalation. 5. Caffeine if concentrations in urine exceed 15 micrograms/ml. C. NAIA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning: Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product with the appropriate or designated athletics department staff. 1. Dietary supplements, including vitamins and minerals, are not well regulated and may cause a positive drug test result. 2. Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility using dietary supplements. 3. Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs not listed on the label. 4. Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at your own risk. Note to Student Athletes: There is no complete list of banned substances. Do not rely on this list to rule out any supplement ingredient. Check with your athletics department staff prior to using a supplement. D. Some Examples of NAIA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class: 1. Stimulants: Amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine; methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine (bitter orange); methylhexaneamine, “bath salts” (mephedrone) etc. Exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned. 2. Anabolic Agents (sometimes listed as a chemical formula, such as 3,6,17- androstenetrione): Androstenedione; boldenone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto); epi-trenbolone; etiocholanolone; methasterone; methandienone; nandrolone; norandrostenedione; ostarine, stanozolol; stenbolone; testosterone; trenbolone; etc. 3. Diuretics (water pills) and Other Masking Agents: Bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene; trichlormethiazide; etc. 4. Peptide Hormones and Analogues: Growth hormone (hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc. 5. Anti-Estrogens: Anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; ATD, clomiphene etc.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 27 of 30 6. Beta-2 Agonists: Bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; etc. Additional examples of banned drugs can be found at www.naia.org/wellness. Any substance that is chemically related to the class, even if it is not listed as an example, is also banned. Information about ingredients in medications and nutritional/dietary supplements can be obtained by contacting the Drug Free Sport AXIS™ 866.635.7877 or https://dfsaxis.com/users/login. Select NAIA, and the password is naialive5. It is your responsibility to check with the appropriate or designated athletics staff before using any substance.

Section IX: Financial Aid

General For information about Financial Aid to UC Merced including the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), Scholarships, Grants, Loans and much more, visit the UC Merced Financial Aid website. All student athletes are highly encouraged to complete a FAFSA on a yearly basis.

Financial Aid Policy The University's undergraduate student support policy is guided by the goal of maintaining the affordability of the University for all the students admitted within the framework of the Master Plan. As such, the student aid policy complements the goals of the University's undergraduate admissions policy, which was adopted by the Board of Regents in May of 1988, to enroll "a student body that...demonstrates high academic achievement or exceptional personal talent, and that encompasses the broad diversity of cultural, racial, geographic, and socio-economic backgrounds characteristic of California." More information on financial aid policy may be found here.

Financial Aid Appeal UC Merced recognizes that the FASFA may not always portray a clear picture of your financial situation. If the FASFA does not adequately reflect your current situation or your financial circumstances have changed since submitting the FASFA, you may request a re- evaluation of your financial aid eligibility. More information on financial aid appeals may be found here.

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 28 of 30 Athletic Grant in Aid All student athletes who are under consideration for an athletic grant are highly encouraged to file a FAFSA on an annual basis. The head coach of each sport, with the approval of the athletic administration and the office of financial aid, will recommend individuals to receive athletics aid. Athletic aid is not offered for summer sessions. Athletic grant-in-aid is based on the following premises: 1. The current academic standards for admission and the determination of initial and continuing eligibility will not be altered. 2. Administration of athletic aid will meet the rules and regulations of UC Merced, the NAIA, and the conference affiliation for the specific sport. 3. Only student athletes who have been admitted or have been reviewed by the office of admissions and termed admissible may be offered an athletic grant or UC Merced Letter of Intent. 4. Student athletes who receive athletics aid must maintain full-time status. Student athletes who enroll in less than 12 credits must be in the final semester for graduation, have filed to graduate and be certified (by the Registrar) that they are in the final credits necessary for their degree in order to receive aid. 5. The renewal of institutional financial aid based in any degree on athletics ability shall be made on or before July 1 prior to the academic year in which it is to be effective. The institution shall notify in writing each student athlete with eligibility remaining who received an award in the previous academic year whether the grant has been renewed, reduced or not renewed for the ensuing academic year. This notification will come from the compliance office. 6. Athletic aid may be reduced or cancelled if the student athlete renders himself or herself ineligible for competition, fraudulently misrepresents any information on an application, letter of intent or financial aid agreement, engages in serious misconduct warranting substantial disciplinary sanction or voluntarily withdraws from the sport. Those students whose athletically related financial aid is reduced or not renewed for the ensuing academic year can submit in writing an appeal to the Executive Director of Recreation and Athletics.

Federal Work Study Federal Work Study awards are given to students so that they have the opportunity to earn money by working part-time. The Federal Work Study award is NOT a guarantee of employment. Students will need to apply for and be hired into a position. The Center for Career and Professional Advancement (CCPA) is available to assist you in finding a Federal Work Study position. To find additional information about on-campus employment and to search for current openings refer online here.

Section X: Academic & Events Calendars

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 29 of 30 Student athletes are encouraged to stay connected to university and athletic department calendars, events and important dates. • University Academic Calendar • Enrollment Management Dates & Deadlines • Campus-wide Events Calendar • Athletics Master Schedule

UC Merced Student Athlete Handbook Page 30 of 30