VARSITY BLUES 2019-2020 STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK CLEAR THE AIR Your mental health is important! In any given year, 1 in 5 Canadians experience a mental health illness*
Did you know that the Varsity Blues has an embedded counselor available to you?
Book your confidential appointment with Health & Wellness After hours? Always available 24 hours a day 416-978-8030
Let them know you are a varsity student-athlete to get priority booking
*According to CAMH Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Table of Contents
Varsity Blues Student-Athlete Rights 4
Section 1 A Tradition of Excellence 5
Section 2 Intercollegiate and High Performance Sport Model 7
Section 3 Varsity Blues Expectations of Behaviour 9
Section 4 Eligibility 14
Section 5 Student-Athlete Services 16
Section 6 Athletic Scholarships and Financial Aid Awards 21
Section 7 Intercollegiate Program - Appeal Procedures 23
Section 8 Health Care 25
Section 9 Leadership and Governance 27
Section 10 Frequently Asked Questions 28
2019-20 Important Academic Dates 30
Safety Information for Students, Staff and Faculty 32
Helpful University Resources 33
Important numbers
Executive Director of Athletics Assistant Manager, Student-Athlete Services Coordinator, Student-Athlete Services (Athletic Director) Steve Manchur and Academic Support Beth Ali 416-946-0807 Shakeeb Ahmed 416-978-7379 [email protected] 416-978-6741 [email protected] [email protected] Manager, Marketing and Events Manager, Intercollegiate Sport Mary Beth Challoner Did you know that the Varsity Blues has an embedded counselor available to you? Melissa Krist 416-946-5131 416-946-3712 [email protected] [email protected] Coordinator, Sports Information Assistant Manager, Intercollegiate Jill Clark Blue & White and Club Sports 416-978-4263 Kevin Sousa [email protected] 416-978-5431
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 1 About the University of Toronto
The University of Toronto was founded as King’s College in 1827 and has evolved into a large and complex institution. It now occupies three campuses: Scarborough, Mississauga and the historic St. George campus. It has federated with three smaller universities which are on the St. George campus, and is affiliated with several colleges and institutes. There are ten fully affiliated teaching hospitals in metropolitan Toronto. Faculty conduct research in many places in Canada and around the world.
U of T is Canada’s most important research institution and has gained an international reputation for its research. It enrols more students, employs more faculty, and offers a greater range of courses than any other Canadian university.
A liberal arts education is the heart of the undergraduate curriculum at Toronto, and the Faculty of Arts and Science has more students than any other faculty. The education of students for the professions has always been an important part of the University’s role, and the University accordingly maintains a wide range of professional faculties. The University’s insistence on the importance of research in all disciplines has made it the major centre for graduate education in Canada. In many fields it produces a majority of the nation’s doctoral candidates. The quality and range of the programs - undergraduate, graduate and professional - attract students from all parts of the province, from around the country and from abroad.
To support its work of teaching and research, the University has collected a library that is the largest in Canada and among the best in the world. The University maintains many laboratories and specialized aids to research. The Library and many of these research facilities are available for use by members of other universities. The University of Toronto Press Inc. is the chief institution of its kind in Canada and one of the most important scholarly publishers in North America.
2 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Letter from the Executive Director of Athletics
Varsity Blues,
Welcome to the 2019-20 varsity season. This is an exciting time of the year It also contains the programs and services offered to varsity student- as each team prepares for their annual campaign – a blank slate that holds athletes and a staff list in case you need assistance. promise of excellence, community and lasting memories. Finally, please stop by and introduce yourself to me and the intercollegiate There are four pillars to the Varsity Blues Program – athletic excellence, staff. Our offices are in located on second floor of the Varsity Centre academic excellence, leadership development and community service. Pavilion and the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport. These four pillars serve as the framework for our program and set the priorities by which we operate. Striving for excellence as a Varsity Blue Go Blues! requires extraordinary dedication, perseverance and commitment. It is important to remember that the skills that have made you a successful student-athlete, such as commitment, discipline, determination and work ethic, are also going to help you achieve academic, personal and professional success. Beth Ali In this student-athlete handbook, you will find detailed information Executive Director of Athletics regarding the varsity program. In particular, it outlines the OUA, U SPORTS and U of T regulations to which each varsity student-athlete must comply.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 3 2018-19 Academic excellence award winners
Varsity Blues Student-Athlete Rights All Varsity Blues student-athletes have the right to:
• Be treated with dignity and respect by coaches, teammates, other • Have their athletic performance evaluated without regard to their student-athletes, spectators and staff from the Faculty of Kinesiology sexual orientation, religious beliefs, race, socio-economic status or and Physical Education and the University; gender identity;
• Expect that their coaches, managers, medical and program staff • Participate in all intercollegiate or team social functions with the understand and are sensitive to the challenges facing all student- partner of their choice when partners are invited; and, athletes in terms of sexual orientation, religious beliefs, racial issues, socioeconomic status, gender identity, athletic and academic potential; • Strive for athletic and academic excellence at the University of Toronto with the support of their coaches, academic faculty and • Be proud of who they are and be physically safe; program staff.
• Be as open about their identity as they choose to be;
4 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 1988-89 Women’s Volleyball Team was inducted into the University of Toronto’s Sports Hall of Fame in 2019
Section 1. A Tradition of Excellence
Welcome to the University of Toronto! As a Varsity Blues student- the longest-running championship record of any swim team in Canada athlete, you are about to embark on your journey and become part and several hundred members of Varsity Blues teams have qualified for of a rich tradition. With 42 teams and over 800 student-athletes, the Olympic Games and FISU (international university) Games, as well as University of Toronto operates one of the most in-depth, comprehensive Commonwealth and Pan Am Games. and diverse intercollegiate programs in North America. With a rich and storied tradition dating back to the 1890s, the Varsity Blues are one of The Varsity Blues teams are coached by some of the most talented, the most iconic brands in Canadian university athletics. acclaimed and successful coaching staff in North America, including national team and Olympic coaches. U of T teams have won every major Canadian university sporting championship over the past century, from football’s Vanier Cup to women’s ice hockey, and have won more provincial and national championships than any other university. Varsity Blues swimmers have
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 5 Cheer Toronto! Toronto! Toronto Varsity! Shout, fight for the Blue and White And honour of U of T Rippity rappity rippity rappity ree* Toronto! Toronto! Toronto Varsity! Go Toronto!
*sometimes said as rip rap ree
6 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Section 2. Intercollegiate and High Performance Sport Model
University Division Toronto Division Blue and White Division • A comprehensive student-athlete development program • A student-athlete development program that includes • Provide students with a competitive sport opportunity to that includes the provision of competitive sport the provision of competitive sport opportunities at the represent their university against other Ontario institutions opportunities at the provincial and national level provincial level within a defined length of season and resource allocation • Resources to compete for provincial and national success • Programs within this division will be allocated the • May compete within the OUA, a PSO or they may choose to • Compete within OUA and U SPORTS structure resources needed to compete for provincial success create a competitive structure by accessing existing clubs • Strong connections to the provincial and national high • Compete within OUA structure or leagues within the Greater Toronto Area performance sport structure Basketball M+W Field Hockey W Baseball M Badminton M+W Curling M+W Football M Golf M+W Lacrosse W Figure Skating M+W Fencing M+W Hockey M+W Rugby W Rowing M+W Mountain Biking M+W Lacrosse M Soccer M+W Swimming M+W Rugby M Softball W Tennis M+W Track/XC M+W Volleyball M+W Squash M+W Wrestling M+W Water Polo M+W ➤ Funding for league, play-offs, and partially funded for ➤ Funding for OUA league and play-offs ➤ Funding for the cost of OUA or PSO championships and non-conference competitive opportunities honoraria for coach; partial funding for student-athlete preparation and apparel ➤ 12 month training programs ➤ 6-8 month training programs with partial support for ➤ 4-6 month training programs strength and conditioning ➤ Full time or part time coaching & assistant coaches ➤ Part time coaches (honoraria) ➤ Part time coaches (honoraria) ➤ Access to facilities and sport medicine in and out of ➤ Access to facilities and sport medicine during the ➤ Access to sport medicine and facilities in season only season academic year. ➤ Event, sport information, program, academic, alumni and ➤ Event and sport information management support in ➤ Student or coach led event management and sport recruitment support season information ➤ Access to IC strength and conditioning & sport science ➤ Partial access to IC strength and conditioning ➤ No access to IC strength and conditioning
21 Men’s Teams 21 Women’s Teams 24 Sports
Questions: Manager, Intercollegiate Sport Assistant Manager, Intercollegiate Melissa Krist Blue & White and Club Sports 416-946-3712 Kevin Sousa [email protected] 416-978-5431 [email protected]
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 7 TAKE YOUR GAME BEYOND THE FIELD
U of T’s co-curricular record (CCR) is an official document that captures your skills and experiences outside of the classroom. As a Varsity Blues student-athlete, your time on the field can earn you CCR recognition. For more information, visit ccr.utoronto.ca Section 3. Varsity Blues Expectations of Behaviour
A. Overview
As a Varsity Blue, each student-athlete is expected to adhere to behaviour that positively represents the Varsity Blues program and the University of Toronto. Student-athletes are representatives of the Varsity Blue program and, as such, are amongst the most visible students on campus and in the University of Toronto community. Participation on an athletic team creates the unique opportunity to be a role model, mentor, and spokesperson. It also brings responsibilities. The social interaction of student-athletes, both on and off campus, can be subject to scrutiny and public knowledge. As a Varsity Blue, student-athletes are expected to be positive role models and ambassadors of the Varsity Blue program and your team and the University of Toronto by demonstrating the pursuit of ethical sport, fair play, honesty, integrity, and respect for others at all times. A Varsity Blue is expected to abide by all University policies, Varsity Blue policies, team rules, and policies and procedures of the Ontario University Athletics (OUA), U SPORTS and/or other sport governing bodies. As a Varsity Blue student-athletes are expected to be responsible citizens, achieving academically and performing athletically.
Other expectations include:
•• pursuing academic success while a student-athlete; •• abiding by all OUA, U SPORTS and/or sport governing rules and •• fulfilling all team and athletic commitments throughout the year as regulations; prescribed by their Head Coach; •• wearing approved Varsity Blues branded attire when representing the •• exhibiting conduct at all times which complements and enhances the University of Toronto in competition, during award presentations & university and team’s reputation; photos, and any other sanctioned University/Varsity Blues event; •• not engaging in any activity that may be considered unethical or might •• following the alcohol code of ethics (page 11), including the prohibition bring the reputation of the student-athlete, the team, the Varsity Blues of consumption of alcohol in any chartered, or rented vehicles; program or the university into disrepute; •• refraining from all illegal, recreational, or banned drugs and abide by •• refraining from posting or contributing material to any social media the drug education and policy as outlined (page 12). platforms that negatively reflects upon the student-athlete, the team, •• All Varsity Blues student-athletes must adhere to the University of the Varsity Blues program or the University. (See social media policy, Toronto’s Code of Student Conduct: http://www.governingcouncil. page 13); utoronto.ca/Assets/Governing+Council+Digital+Assets/Policies/ •• treating everyone with respect regardless of gender identity, race, PDF/ppjul012002.pdf or http://www.viceprovoststudents.utoronto. place of origin, athletic potential, colour, sexual orientation, religion, ca/publicationsandpolicies/codeofstudentconduct/The_Student_s_ political beliefs, socio-economic status (See equity page 12); Companion_to_the_Code_of_Student_Conduct.htm •• exhibiting conduct that is free of harrassment, sexual harassment or discrimination (as outlined in the University’s Policies and Violations of the Varsity Blues student-athlete’s expectations of Procedures: http://www.governingcouncil. lamp4.utoronto.ca/wp-content/ behaviour will result in appropriate sport-related discipline as uploads/2016/12/p1215-poshsv-2016-2017pol.pdf); determined by the Executive Director of Athletics. It may result but not be limited to: student-athlete individual suspension and/or team •• conducting all team welcoming/orientations and social activities that suspension. reflect integrity, dignity, safety, and individual rights including the right to participate voluntarily. (See Orientations, Team Building, Hazing page 11);
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 9 B. Orientation, Team Building and Hazing C. Definitions
Coaches, staff and student leaders affiliated with the Faculty of Subtle Hazing: Behaviors that emphasize a power imbalance between Kinesiology and Physical Education (KPE) are committed to ensuring new members and veterans of the group or team. Too often they are student-athlete orientations and transition experiences are welcoming. mistakenly accepted as harmless. Most often they involve ridicule, Part of this commitment is an effort to introduce positive team building embarrassment and humiliation, and could even be considered as orientation activities for student-athletes who are new to the Varsity harassment. Some new members seem to expect such treatment and Blues intercollegiate program. endure it for the sake of acceptance. Some examples include, but are not limited to: Deprivation of Varsity Blues intercollegiate program supports only those team building privileges granted to other team members; requiring new members activities which are constructive, educational and contribute to the to perform duties not assigned to other members; socially isolating intellectual and personal development of student-athletes. It unequivocally new members; identifying, or classifying new members as a “rookie” opposes hazing and any situation created intentionally to produce mental on clothing or other identifiers; name calling; implied use of alcohol or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment or ridicule. required; requiring new members to refer to other members with Hazing is any act, whether physical, mental, emotional or psychological, titles (e.g., Mr., Miss), while they are identified with demeaning terms which subjects another person voluntarily or involuntarily to anything (rookie, fresh meat, dogs); expecting certain items to always be in one’s that may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate, harass or intimidate them, or possession; deception; use of sexually explicit language. which may in any fashion compromise their inherent dignity as a person. The Varsity Blues program follows the Code of Student conduct for all Harassment Hazing: Behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical reported incidents of hazing. discomfort that puts unnecessary stress upon the victims (e.g., verbal abuse and threats, etc.).2 The Varsity Blues program encourages positive team building activities Some examples (but not limited to): Consumption of alcohol and/ that are team experiences and promote team unity and growth through or illegal drug substances required; verbal abuse and/or threats exercises that support the dignity of all members of the team. or implied threats; asking new members to wear embarrassing or Hazing vs. Team Building humiliating attire; stunt or skit nights with degrading, crude or Hazing Team Building humiliating acts; expecting new members to perform personal service • humiliates and degrades • promotes respect and dignity to other members, such as carrying books, errands, cooking, cleaning, • tears down individuals • supports and empowers etc.; sleep deprivation; sexual simulations; expecting new members to • creates division • creates real teamwork be deprived of maintaining a normal schedule of bodily cleanliness; • creates lifelong nightmares • creates lifelong memories expecting new members to harass others. • is shameful and secretive • creates pride and integrity • is a power trip • is a shared positive experience! Violent Hazing: Behaviors that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional harm.3 Hazing incidents have resulted in: Some examples (but not limited to): Forced or coerced alcohol or other •• suspension of a team’s program and/or cancellation at various U drug consumption; beating, paddling or other forms of assault; forced SPORTS institutions; or coerced ingestion of vile substances or concoctions; burning; water •• a student-athlete’s institutional eligibility to be taken away; intoxication; expecting abuse or mistreatment of animals; public •• student-athletes to be arrested, including having to appear in court nudity; expecting illegal activity; exposure to cold weather or extreme at their own expense; heat without appropriate protection. •• teams to be torn apart and fragmented; and,
•• serious physical and psychological injuries and even death.
10 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Initiations are defined as an induction to a team/group through special •• Compete with each other in other team games, such as skiing, ceremonies that hold meaningful relevance. An initiation that asks the basketball, hockey and swimming, splitting the team equally student-athlete to sacrifice their values and participate in humiliating between new members and returning members. 4 and endangering activities is misguided. Initiations are prohibited in the •• Go to a Blues Game with your team! Blues supporting Blues! Varsity Blues program. •• Have your team visit the children’s ward in a hospital, a nursing home or a homeless shelter. Perpetrators: Individuals who exercise their power and control over the newest members through subtle harassing or violent hazing that •• Share your team building experience with other Varsity Blues humiliates, degrades and/or endangers.5 teams and swap ideas. Passive Participant: An individual member of the hazing group who stands by and watches the hazing activity perpetrated upon another victim and E. Alcohol Code of Ethics chooses not to do or say anything that would or could change the course of action. The passive participant becomes as much of the problem as the In order to develop a positive culture at the University of Toronto regarding perpetrators themselves, contributing to the hazing culture.6 alcohol, student-athletes need to be leaders with regards to educating 1-6 Source: NCAA Policy on Hazing themselves and others about the use of alcohol. Research has shown that for every one ounce of alcohol consumed, it take two hours for the liver D. Creating new traditions: Orientation and team to process. Hence, in the quest for excellence both on and off the playing field, student-athletes need to make smart choices and realize the long- building alternatives term athletic, career and health benefits of choosing not to drink alcohol or to drink responsibly after the legal age of 19 in Ontario. Furthermore, Traditions are important, and are intended to hand down honourable illegally possessing, distributing, selling or being under the influence of customs. They instill a sense of value and pride in the existing members. alcohol or other drugs is inconsistent with the core values of the university It is imperative for coaches and team leaders to establish meaningful community. The following activities are unacceptable for all Varsity Blues traditions that are time-honoured through positive team building events. program members (coaches, support staff, and student-athletes): Suggestions include: •• Establish mentors for new student-athletes. •• The consumption of alcohol prior to HOME Varsity Blues recognized •• Have the team together adopt an elementary class. athletic events is prohibited, as defined by each team’s team code (i.e. •• Design and complete a community service project during the No alcohol within 24 hours of competition start time); preseason. •• The consumption of alcohol at AWAY Varsity Blues recognized athletic •• Attend a team-building ropes course to build unity among new events is prohibited from the time the team departs campus to the time and veteran players. the team arrives back to campus; •• Establish a ceremonial presentation of game uniforms to new •• Consumption of alcohol in any University of Toronto athletic facility, players before the first contest. including but not limited to: team rooms, classrooms, labs; •• Hold a “Meet the Parents and Families of New Players Day” before •• Use of alcohol that interferes with scholastic success, athletic the first contest. performance, personal relationships or finances; •• Establish a tradition of recognizing each new student-athlete’s •• Irresponsible use and/or being intoxicated in a public place (i.e., birthday with a pizza party. downtown University campus, restaurants, etc.); and, •• Have veterans call new players before they arrive on campus as a •• Drinking at team building/orientation events. welcoming gesture. It is understood that there are social norms and special circumstances •• Have holiday-time phone calls from the captain to all new first- that would be allowable for coaches to use discretion. These special year players. circumstances would be discussed with prior to the event. •• Take the team hiking, canoeing, rafting or bowling.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 11 F. Drug Education and Policy sexual orientation, resulting in inequality of opportunity, exclusion and the creation of a poisoned or toxic environment. Student-athletes are expected The Varsity Blues program adheres to the U SPORTS regulations for drug to adhere to the policy guidelines regarding harassment and discrimination education and policy for all Varsity Blues student-athletes including: outlined in the Code of Student Conduct and the Policy on Sexual Violence •• A mandatory online drug education webinar for all student-athletes and Sexual Harassment. http://www.governingcouncil.lamp4.utoronto.ca/wp- participating in the Varsity Blues program; (U SPORTS, University, and content/uploads/2016/12/p1215-poshsv-2016-2017pol.pdf Toronto division sports only). The university’s policy makes a clear distinction between disclosing an •• Unequivocal opposition to the use of any banned or restricted substance incident and making a formal report, and there is no requirement to make a or methods in contravention of U SPORTS rules and the rules of the formal report in order to access support. The policy is part of U of T’s action National and/or International Sport Federations; the International plan to prevent and respond to sexual violence. Olympic Committee and the Federation du sport universitaire; •• Oppose the encouragement of the use of such substances and/or methods On the St. George campus, the Tri-Campus Sexual Violence Prevention and by individuals in positions of leadership in university sport (coaches, Support Centre is located at 140 St. George St. and is currently open 9:30 athletic staff, medical practitioners, sport scientists, administrators) or by a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday. The UTM Health Centre and UTSC the student-athletes themselves. Health & Wellness Centre will help direct people to services until the centre •• Provision of, or administration of banned or restricted substances and/or opens its locations on those campuses next month. Individuals can also call methods to student-athletes is forbidden; and, Campus Police to make a report at 416-978-2222. •• Random testing of student-athletes in U SPORTS sports during the After hours support is available at: competitive and off-season year. Women’s College Hospital SAAC (416-323-6040), Cannabis Policy Scarborough Grace Sexual Assault Care Centre (416-495-2400), and Trillium Upon the legalization of cannabis in Canada, the use of cannabis for all Hospital Sexual Assault Care Centre (905-848-7100). Varsity Blues student-athletes is prohibited during the competitive season from the start of training camp to the end of the sport championship. H. Equity Policy
G. Harassment and Discrimination Policy The University is committed and dedicated to inclusion and equity. In recent years, a great many steps have been taken towards greater equity in the funding The Varsity Blues program is committed to providing a safe, non-threatening available to men and women in intercollegiate sports. The Faculty continues to environment, supportive of productivity, as well as demonstrating a concern extend and realize opportunities for students who wish to participate. for the personal goals, dignity and self worth of all student-athletes and staff •• Treat all participants equitably within the context of their sporting of the intercollegiate program. The University’s goal is to treat every student- activities, regardless of gender identity, race, place of origin, athletic athlete and staff member fairly in an environment free of harassment and potential, colour, sexual orientation, religion, political beliefs and discrimination. The University of Toronto recognizes that all members of socioeconomic status; the University community have the right to be free from harassment and •• Use language that conveys respect for the dignity of others (e.g., gender- discrimination on the prohibited grounds defined in the Ontario Human neutral terms) in written and verbal communications; Rights Code. This includes but is not limited to: sexual harassment, harassment based on gender identity, race, ethnicity, religion, creed, disability and sexual •• Not practice, condone, ignore, facilitate or collaborate with any form of orientation. Such harassment and discrimination has the purpose or effect of discrimination in sport; and, unreasonably interfering with an individual’s or a group’s work or academic •• Act to prevent or correct practices that are impermissible/discriminatory. performance, or of creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive working, living, athletic or academic environment. Discrimination is any action which has For more information on intercollegiate sport and equity, contact the effect of differentiating on the basis of prohibited human rights grounds, Beth Ali, Executive Director of Athletics [email protected] including but not limited to: race, ethnicity, religion, creed, disability and
12 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 I. Social Media Policy & Guidelines for Student-Athletes •• Information that is sensitive or personal in nature or is proprietary to the Varsity Blues athletic program or the university, which is not public information (examples: tentative or future team schedules, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and other social media sites student-athlete injuries and eligibility status, travel plans/itineraries have increased in popularity globally, and are used by the majority of or information). student-athletes here at the University of Toronto in one form or another. Varsity Blues student-athletes, as members of the University of Toronto For your own safety, please keep the following recommendations in community, are permitted to have profiles on social networking websites mind as you participate in social media websites: such as, but not limited to, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Snapchat. •• Set your security settings so that only your friends can view your Student-athletes may not be aware of the ease that third parties, including profile and do not post personal identifying information such as the media, faculty, future employers and officials can access their profiles phone numbers, class schedules, home address or other personal and view all personal information. This includes all pictures, videos, information as it could lead to unwanted attention, stalking, identity comments and posts. Inappropriate material found by these third parties theft, etc. affects the perception of not only the student-athlete but also the the •• Be aware of who you add as a friend – many people are looking to athletic department and the University. This can also be detrimental to take advantage of student-athletes or to seek connection with them. a student-athlete’s future employment options, whether in professional Student-athletes should remember that they are ambassadors of the sports or in other industries. It is important that student-athletes exercise University of Toronto and are always in the public eye. Content posted appropriate caution if they choose to participate. by student-athletes at other institutions or even other students on Users must understand that any content that they make public via such campus may not be acceptable on the profile. If you are ever in doubt of online networks or digital platforms does not violate the ethics and intent the appropriateness of your online public material, consider whether it behind both the student code AND the student-athlete expectations of upholds and positively reflects your own values and ethics as well as the behaviour listed here. Varsity Blues and the University’s.
Examples of inappropriate and offensive behaviors that fall under the Team Social Media student-athlete expectations of behaviour include but are not limited to, If a coach and/or a student-athlete(s) wishes to initiate, create or the following: manage a team handle on any social media platform with the purpose •• Photos, videos, comments or posts showing the personal use of alcohol of promotions and/or dissemination of information of a University and tobacco e.g., no holding cups, cans, shot glasses etc. of Toronto and Varsity Blues program, and in doing so use the brand, •• Photos, videos, comments or posts that are of a sexual nature. likeness, and/or name of the University, the Varsity Blues or of the This includes links to websites of a pornographic nature and other specific team, they will need to contact Mary Beth Challoner, Manager, inappropriate material. Events and Marketing for set-up, branding approval and administration rights. All new and existing team-managed social media accounts are •• Pictures, videos, comments or posts that condone drug-related activity. considered the property of the University of Toronto, and the Varsity This includes but is not limited to images that portray the personal use of Blues department must maintain administrative access to all accounts. marijuana and drug paraphernalia. •• Content online that is unsportsmanlike, derogatory, demeaning or Questions regarding acceptable content may be directed to: threatening toward any other individual or entity (examples: derogatory Mary Beth Challoner at [email protected] Manager, Events and comments regarding another institution; taunting comments aimed at Marketing. a student-athlete, coach or team at another institution and derogatory comments against race and/or gender). No posts should depict or encourage unacceptable, violent or illegal activities (examples: hazing, sexual harassment/assault, gambling, discrimination, fighting, vandalism, academic dishonesty, underage drinking, or illegal drug use).
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 13 Section 4. Eligibility B. Academic Eligibility Rules for OUA and U SPORTS Athletes In order to compete in OUA/U SPORTS and alternate university leagues, each student-athlete must comply with eligibility requirements. U SPORTS sports are those which are offered by both the OUA and It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to be aware of all eligibility U SPORTS and lead to both OUA and U SPORTS championships rules. Below is a summary of the eligibility rules:
A. Be a full-time student and/or registered in 3 full courses, 6 half Complete versions can be found on the U SPORTS website courses or 18 semester hours. A student-athlete must be enrolled in a (www.usports.ca) and the OUA website (www.oua.ca). minimum of 3 courses (9 credit hours or equivalent) in the same term in which they are competing. All student-athletes must be cleared by the intercollegiate program office prior to starting any competitive season. B. For sports in the University and Toronto divisions, along with curling and wrestling, each continuing student-athlete must have successfully For further questions, clarifications or for a complete list of eligibility completed 3 full courses (or equivalent) in the previous academic year requirements, contact Steve Manchur at [email protected] (Sept. 1 to Aug. 31) they were a student-athlete in order to be eligible for competition during the following season. Student-athletes may A. Process for Completing Your Eligibility take summer courses, including online, in order to qualify, as long as the summer courses are fully recognized by the University of Toronto.
•• All student-athletes must register for intercollegiate participation C. If there are circumstances within a student’s academic program through the Varsity Blues Registration System (VBRS). This must be which would warrant an exception to A and/or B and in which the completed prior to the start of any training/practice/tryouts with the University continues to declare the student a full-time student (e.g. program. If you are intending to tryout/compete on multiple teams, you graduate student), the student can be declared in good standing and must register for each program. therefore eligible to compete. •• All forms must be completed in their entirety, paying close attention D. Academic records are checked on a daily basis. A student-athlete will to all sections. This is a legal document and student-athletes are not be permitted to compete if they reduce their course load below the required to complete it fully and honestly. eligibility requirement.
E. Penalties for non-compliance with any eligibility rule may include, but are not limited to team and/or individual disqualification.
14 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 C. Years of Eligibility D. U SPORTS Participation as a Professional Student-Athlete A. U SPORTS sports – basketball, curling, cross country, football, field hockey, ice hockey, women’s rugby, soccer, swimming, track and field, In U SPORTS sports, a professional student-athlete is defined as any volleyball and wrestling – are limited to 5 years of eligibility. Men’s student-athlete who at any time played in a professional and or semi- rugby is the only OUA sport that has a 5 year eligibility maximum. professional league recognized by the U SPORTS. All student-athletes All other sports have an unlimited number of eligibility years. In the that are deemed to be ‘professional’ must be cleared prior to competition. sport of football and men's rugby, there is an age-cap limitation. Please For OUA sports, student-athletes must have an “amateur status” in order contact Steve Manchur [email protected], for more details. to be eligible for participation.
B. A year of eligibility in a U SPORTS sport is consumed: E. Transfers •• Participation in three or more non-conference competitions/ tournaments/invitationals A U SPORTS student-athlete who transfers to another academic •• In the sports of basketball, field hockey, hockey, soccer, and institution is not eligible to compete for one calendar year of competition volleyball, participation in any conference competition if there is a prior to competing in interuniversity athletics. Exceptions: non-conference schedule 1. A U SPORTS student-athlete who has completed a degree at a •• In the sports of football and rugby, and where a team has a one-game U SPORTS institution may transfer to another U SPORTS institution exhibition schedule, a student-athlete may participate in one regular and will not be required to sit out for a year if they enroll in a season game without consuming a year of eligibility. graduate or first professional degree program at a school different •• In the sports of basketball, field hockey, football, hockey, rugby, from the one they attended the previous year. All eligibility of soccer, and volleyball, participation in two or more conference transfers must be confirmed with the intercollegiate program office competitions if there is no non-conference schedule prior to competing. •• Any participation in a conference playoff or qualifier (i.e. OUA 2. In the sports of track and cross country, a student-athlete may playoffs & championship) transfer after having competed one year at a previous institution, •• Any participation in a U SPORTS Championship without a penalty. •• REMEMBER: Your name appearing on a gamesheet or entry form 3. In the sport of swimming, a student-athlete may apply to transfer to a constitutes your participation in that game/event, even if you don’t U SPORTS institution from any degree granting institution without step onto the court/field/ice. a penalty.
C. Injury: Whether or not a student-athlete consumes a year of 4. A Canadian student-athlete who transfers to a U SPORTS institution eligibility after being injured early in a season will be determined on from a non-Canadian degree granting institution (e.g. NCAA an individual basis. Contact Steve Manchur at or NAIA) shall be eligible to participate immediately if certain [email protected] for more information. conditions are met. Please contact Steve Manchur for more information.
5. In OUA sports only, student-athletes may transfer from one institution to another without penalty, provided all other eligibility requirements are met.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 15 Section 5. Student-Athlete Services
A. Student-Athlete and Team Support B. Academic Expectations
The University of Toronto is committed to whole person development. The Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education and the University Students are at a crucial stage of their intellectual, physical and social of Toronto are committed to both academic and athletic excellence. We development. Athletic skill development should be encouraged alongside: strongly encourage student-athletes to: •• Intellectual accomplishment, professional preparation and critical 1. Set priorities and plan ahead. reflections; 2. Make every effort to attend all classes, labs and tutorials for each course. •• Self-knowledge about health and well-being; 3. Fulfill all course requirements on time. •• Interpersonal and intercultural awareness and communications; 4. Know and adhere to all academic requirements and deadlines •• A commitment to personal excellence, fair play, ethical behaviour including prerequisites and add/drop dates. and a lifetime of involvement in physical activity; and, 5. Know all academic regulations that apply to intercollegiate eligibility. •• Various educational sessions and support services are available to teams and individual student-athletes in order to enhance whole 6. Get to know the resources and student support systems on campus, person development. Examples of the educational services that may starting with professors. be offered include: 7. Ask for help when needed. •• positive team building •• diversity training Academic Conflict Policy: Coaches and staff make every effort to ensure practice and competition •• stress management schedules consider the academic needs of student-athletes. There will, •• coping with performance anxiety however, be occasions when academic and athletic commitments conflict. •• orientation and transition experiences The following outlines the procedures student-athletes must follow •• body image and eating disorders when there is a conflict between academic and athletic events. It is the •• communication responsibility of the student-athlete to identify these conflicts well in •• time management advance, and notify the coach and/or professor as early as possible. •• nutrition •• If practice conflicts with a class: The student-athlete is expected to honour the academic commitment •• off-season strength and conditioning and inform the coach well in advance of the conflict. •• strength training basics. •• If practice conflicts with a test: Tests are occasionally scheduled outside regular class times. In these Confidential support and referrals are available. cases, the student-athlete must inform the coach, as early as possible, For further information, please contact: Steve Manchur at but academic commitment takes priority. [email protected]. •• If competition conflicts with class time: The student-athlete is expected to honour the athletic commitment and to advise the professor of the conflict as early as possible. The student must keep up with missed work. In the event the class time has an academic evaluation component (mandatory tutorial, PRA rotations, etc.), please request an academic conflict letter.
16 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 •• If competition conflicts with a test or exam: C. Academic Services The academic commitment has priority and the student-athlete is expected to honour that commitment. The student-athlete should The University of Toronto offers a range of academic services for all request an academic conflict letter, and talk with the professor students. Consult your academic counselor in your department, faculty about alternate arrangements. or individual college for a list of available resources. The following are services frequently used by students and student-athletes alike: Academic Conflict Letter It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to inform the professor 1. The Writing Centre of a test or exam conflict, a minimum of two weeks in advance to University website: www.writing.utoronto.ca determine if alternative arrangements can be made. Student-athletes St. George campus: MUST go to www.varsityblues.ca to the ATHLETES ONLY SECTION Innis College Writing Centre button and fill out an online request form. Innis College, Rooms 315 and 321 New College Writing Centre Please contact Steve Manchur at [email protected] three Wilson Hall Rooms 2019, 2045, 2046, 2047; weeks in advance or more to provide a letter for you to give to the Ivy Library Rooms 522D, 522E professor verifying your status as a student-athlete and dates of St. Michael’s College Writing Centre Kelly Library Commons the competition that are in conflict with your exam or test. It is Trinity College Writing Centre Trinity College Academic imperative that in order for any consideration to be made, student- Resource Centre, Room 3 athletes respect these timelines as outlined. University College Writing Centre Laidlaw Library, Rooms 214, 216 and 218 REMEMBER: The decision to provide alternate arrangements belongs Victoria College Writing Centre Northrop Frye Hall 103, with the professor. You are responsible for following the established Room A and Room B guidelines and to work with your professor in a cooperative and Woodsworth College Academic Writing Centre courteous manner. Woodsworth College, Room 214
If you are taking a course in French or philosophy, you may be eligible to work with a specialized writing centre. Call the Department of French at 416-926-2302 for information about its services for this academic year. The Philosophy Essay Clinic is located at 170 St. George St. Mississauga campus: The Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre, Room 390K Scarborough campus: Academic Resource Centre, AC210 >> Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 17 2. Learning Skills D. Time Management Skills St. George campus: Academic Success Centre 214 College St. Learning to use your time effectively is a skill. Balancing the demands of www.studentlife.utoronto.ca/asc school and athletic competition can be challenging, whether you are a first Mississauga campus: year or fifth year student-athlete. Here are some suggestions to help you Robert Gillespie Academic Skills Centre organize your time. Hazel McCallion Academic Learning Centre Room 390K www.utm.utoronto.ca/asc •• Plan ahead. Keep a daily, weekly and monthly calendar of all of your Scarborough campus: Academic Advising & Career Centre responsibilities, including practice times, competition dates, test and www.utsc.utoronto.ca/aacc exam dates and due dates for papers and presentations. Pay particular 3. The Career Centre attention to periods where many things are going on at once, for St. George campus: Koffler Student Services Centre example, midterm and exam time. Highlight these “crunch” times on 214 College St. a calendar or in a daily planner and set out time, well in advance, to www.studentlife.utoronto.ca/cc prepare for them. Remember if you have a conflict with an exam or Mississauga campus: Career Centre test, you need to give your professor a minimum of two weeks notice. 3359 Mississauga Rd. (see page 17) www.utm.utoronto.ca/careers •• Know yourself. Be aware of how you currently spend your time. It Scarborough campus: Academic Advising & Career Centre www.utsc.utoronto.ca/aacc is difficult to make changes if you aren’t sure what your habits and patterns are. We all work on slightly different schedules, but there are 4. Counselling Services some times we all seem to work more efficiently. Many students study Counselling services are available on campus for students of the well in the morning as opposed to late in the evening. Determine when University. They include short-term crisis counselling and brief you work best and arrange your schedule accordingly. Avoid leaving psychotherapy for individuals, couples and groups, learning skills tasks you dislike or material you find difficult to grasp until the end. lectures and workshops, and individual consultation on academic Instead, try to tackle difficult material when you are most alert. skills matters. •• Use small blocks of time. Hours between classes, during travel, and 5. St. George campus: Health & Wellness Centre before and following practices can be used effectively. Important 214 College Street, Second Floor learning can take place in an hour or less. Identify tasks that require Koffler Student Service Centre a short period of time (i.e. reading a part of a chapter, reviewing class www.studentlife.utoronto.ca/hwc notes, filling out forms, seeing a coach or professor, etc.) and tackle Mississauga campus: Health & Counselling Centre them during these breaks in the day. Room 1123, South Building www.utm.utoronto.ca/health •• Write everything down. There is a saying: “The faintest pencil mark Scarborough campus: Health and Wellness Centre is superior to the clearest memory”. If you have an idea or forgot to do www.utsc.utoronto.ca/hwc/health-wellness-centre something, write it down. If you finish something, cross it off the list, etc. •• Prioritize. There are times we simply can not finish all of the tasks we have undertaken. Be sure to prioritize those that are most important and allot your time accordingly. Pay particular attention to the value of assignments and papers. For example, an assignment worth 5% of your final grade does not warrant as much time as a paper worth 40% of your final grade.
18 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 •• Establish a regular routine. Try to eliminate time spent making The following are some suggestions to help deal with the stress of decisions and organizing your schedule by setting up a regular being a university student and a student-athlete: routine for studying, practicing and relaxing. •• Embedded Counsellor •• Find a place to study where you won’t be interrupted. Be aware of The intercollegiate office provides student-athletes the designated your distractions and have a plan to deal with them. Once you find service of an embedded counsellor from the University’s Health a place that is conducive to concentration and focus, designate this & Wellness Office. The embedded counsellor works strictly with place to be where only studying occurs. Make sure all the materials Varsity student-athletes once a week at the clinic in Goldring. They you need are close by. provide short-term counseling services and will help determine the •• Plan for recreation/personal time. One of the first activities resources you may require on a longer-term or ongoing basis. to be eliminated when faced with numerous responsibilities is recreational or personal time. It is important to set aside some time To book an appointment, student-athletes can contact the for rest, relaxation and proper nutrition. Plan regular breaks and use Counselling & Psychological Services Office at 416-978-8030 and the breaks to truly relax. You will return more refreshed and ready mention they are a student-athlete. to use your time effectively. •• Just say “no”. Student-athletes, in general, tend to enjoy being •• Good2Talk involved in multiple tasks. Unfortunately, sometimes we over-extend Good2Talk is a free, confidential and anonymous helpline providing ourselves with extracurricular activities including volunteer work professional counselling and information and referrals for mental and leadership roles. Be sure the responsibilities do not come at a health, addictions and wellbeing to post-secondary students in Ontario time when you are already overloaded. If they do, politely decline 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call the helpline at: 1-866-925-5454 and indicate you may be interested in participating at another time (if that is the case). F. Additonal Study Skills E. Coping with Stress PREPARING FOR EXAMS
Student-athletes must cope with the stressors typically experienced When the Exam is Announced: by other students, as well as those associated with being a competitive student-athlete. Stressors may include but are not limited to: •• Find out what the exam will or won’t cover. •• moving to a new city; •• Find out what kind of exam it will be: objective, short essay, long essay, or a combination. •• making new friends; •• choosing courses and a major; Exam Study: •• adjusting to the intensity of training at a competitive university •• Prepare summary sheets for large amounts of lecture and textbook notes. level; •• Spend several days before an exam making a final review of notes. •• attending practices, games and tournaments; •• Stress the following areas in your review: •• coping with poor or unfamiliar levels of athletic and academic a. Points emphasized in class or in the text; performance; b. Areas the professor has advised for study; •• injuries. c. Questions in study guides, past quizzes, and reviews at the end of textbook chapters.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 19 Preparation by Type of Exam: •• Objective Exams: - Stress specifics. - Definitions of key terms and examples. - Lists of items. - For True/False, write some false statements.
•• Essay Exams: - Stress concepts. - List probable exam questions. - Prepare a good outline answer and practice it.
•• Problem Exams: - Memorize formulas if needed. - Practice problems. 2018-19 Silver T recipients MANAGING LECTURE CONTENT
Before the Lecture •• Look at the course outline to determine what sections of text are G. Financial Aid going to be covered in lecture The Faculty has a work-study program – the largest on campus. Many •• Scan the chapters that are going to be covered to get a sense of the colleges and faculties on campus offer bursaries; please check with the main points financial aid staff at your registrar’s office for more information. •• Download and read any lecture slides that you will need for the lecture. Leadership & Employment Opportunities During the Lecture The Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education provides hundreds of full and part-time paid, work-study and volunteer leadership •• Make your own lecture notes and/or make notes on the overhead positions and experiences. These leadership opportunities provide a slides you have downloaded. variety of ways for students to gain valuable career related experiences, •• Listen for sound bites (e.g. “This is really important.” Or “This is the learn new skills, contribute to their education and have an enjoyable sort of thing that you’ll see on the exam.”) and make note of them. time while studying at U of T. For more information, visit •• Make notes about upcoming assignments or test. https://kpe.utoronto.ca/about/working-kpe/casual-and-student-jobs-listing
Shortly After the Lecture •• Review your lecture notes to make sure you understand everything that was discussed in class •• Complete any details in your notes that you missed. •• Refer back to the text to make sure you understand all the concepts that were covered in the lecture.
20 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Section 6. Athletic Scholarships and Financial Aid Awards
A. Athletic Scholarships C. Varsity Blues Athletic Award Descriptions •• Also referred to as an athletic financial award, an athletic scholarship is First Colour T any award that is conditional to being on a U SPORTS or OUA team. Awarded on the recommendation of the coach to student-athletes who •• There are over 100 Varsity Blues intercollegiate Athletic Financial are listed on the team’s eligibility certificate and are members of the Awards. program at the end of the competitive season. •• Some of the awards may have a financial need requirement. •• Financial need awards are restricted to students who can demonstrate Bronze T financial need – defined usually as OSAP eligibility. Such awards are Awarded to student-athletes whose participation has been recognized restricted to Ontario residents. by completing three seasons as a Varsity Blues student-athlete.
Regulations: Silver T •• All athletic scholarships related to Varsity sports fall under OUA and This award is presented primarily to Bronze T holders in their U SPORTS regulations. graduating year for truly outstanding athletic performance. Major •• Those regulations include a maximum $4500 award per person per criteria for "truly outstanding athletic performance" include: calendar year. •• U SPORTS All-Canadian •• Those regulations include, for continuing student-athletes (includes •• U SPORTS/OUA Major Award winner transfer), a GPA 2.50 or greater. •• U SPORTS Tournament All-star •• Those regulations include, for incoming students, an entering average •• Multiple OUA All-star selections of 80% or greater. •• U SPORTS and OUA Record-Holder or Individual Gold Medalist
B. Athletic Scholarship Application Procedures and Financial Need Secondary Criteria: Applications for athletic needs based awards are made available via •• Participation in Olympic, Commonwealth, Pan-Am, World email to all student-athletes listed on the 2018-19 eligibility certificates Championships or FISU Games in March. •• Team record-holder (only if can be verified by intercollegiate staff) •• The deadline for all award applications is April 30th, unless otherwise •• Invitational Tournament All-star or Individual Gold Medalist specified. The decisions will be made by the end of August. The award winners will be notified by mail, after grades have been released. Only Notes: successful candidates will be contacted. 1) Nominees must demonstrate major criteria to be considered. •• The awarded amount will be deposited directly into the recipient’s 2) Successful candidates would ideally have multiple major criteria in student account in two equal installments, one per academic semester, their nomination. to cover tuition and fees. 3) Leadership and Sportsmanship are NOT criteria for this award
Athletic Scholarship for Incoming Student-Athletes Rookie of the Year Where applicable, coaches may approach recruits during the year and Awarded to the female/male varsity student-athlete in their first offer a maximum of $4500/person for the ensuing academic year. The year of post-secondary eligibility, who exhibits outstanding athletic student-athlete must have a minimum entering average of 80% to be performance. eligible to receive the scholarship. Deadlines and other procedures can be obtained by contacting Steve Manchur at [email protected].
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 21 Clara Benson Honour Award In general, when considering a Biggs Award candidate, one should think of The Benson Award is presented annually: "To the student in her a person who has good scholarship, who is very highly skilled in athletics graduating year selected for outstanding ability in athletics and and who has fine personal qualities of dependability, personal commitment, scholarship." responsibility, supportiveness, and respect.
Guidelines in determining Benson Award winners are: Frank Pindar Athletes of the Year 1. The Benson Award is awarded to a female who is a Bronze T recipient Awarded to the male and female varsity student-athlete competing in a sport in her graduating year; activities across her entire university career are whose official season concludes with either an OUA or other university- considered. recognized championship event, and who exhibits the highest degree of 2. Academic achievement of a “B” average or better in the most recent 2 excellence while representing U of T at competitions during the team’s years at the University of Toronto. intercollegiate schedule for the current academic year. 3. Skill in athletics should be shown by outstanding participation in intercollegiate sport. T-Holders' Athletes of the Year 4. Participation in either recreational, interfaculty or community based Presented annually to the female and male student that exhibits the highest sport activities, either as a participant or an administrator, is expected. degree of excellence in athletics. 5. In both intercollegiate and U of T non-intercollegiate athletic T-Holder Academic Excellence Award involvement, student-athlete will demonstrate personal leadership Awarded to student-athletes who achieve first class honours in their academic and fair play. studies. The student-athlete must consume a year of eligibility in order to be eligible. This award is sponsored by the Men’s and Women’s T-Holders’ In general, when considering a Benson Award candidate, one should Association. think of a person who has good scholarship, who is very highly skilled in athletics and who has fine personal qualities of dependability, personal Kirkwood Award commitment, responsibility, supportiveness, and respect. Presented to an undergraduate member of the Council of Athletics and Recreation (CAR) or one of its constituent committees who makes a George M. Biggs Trophy substantial contribution to the Council and its committee(s). The George M. Biggs Trophy is to be awarded annually to the male student (undergraduate or graduate) who is a Bronze T recipient at the Hill-Powell Administrative Award University of Toronto who has contributed the most to university athletics Presented annually to the female student contributing the most to the from the standpoint of: administration of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education programs during the current year. 1. The Biggs Award is awarded to a male who is a Bronze T recipient in his graduating year; activities across his entire university career are John E. McCutcheon Award considered. Presented annually to the male student contributing the most to the 2. Academic achievement of a “B” average or better in the most recent 2 administration of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education programs. years at the University of Toronto. Gordon Cressy Leadership Award 3. Skill in athletics should be shown by outstanding participation in Awarded by the University to students who have made outstanding leadership intercollegiate sport. contributions to the University through extra-curricular involvement. 4. Participation in recreational, interfaculty or community based sport activities either as a participant or an administrator, is expected. Dean’s Student Leadership Awards These awards recognize those students registered at the University of Toronto 5. In both intercollegiate and U of T non intercollegiate athletic and participating in the programs of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical involvement, student-athlete will demonstrate personal leadership Education who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in these programs. and fair play.
22 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Section 7. Intercollegiate Program STEP TWO The student-athlete/member shall submit a written notice to the Dean Appeal Procedures of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education within 5 working days of the receipt of the written notice of the decision of the Executive Director of Athletics in Step One. This notice shall clearly indicate the A. Appeals of Decisions Relating to the Operation of Varsity Blues Teams grounds for further appeal, which customarily are: lack of due process; possession of relevant new facts that were not available at the time of the Based on Faculty and University Policy and longstanding Faculty earlier step(s); a decision clearly contrary to Faculty/University policy. It practices, the following procedures shall be followed in cases where should be noted that Step Two is not a re-hearing de novo but an appeal students wish to appeal an administrative decision (including based solely on the grounds outlined by the appellant. decisions made by coaches) relating to the operation of a Varsity Blues intercollegiate team (including selection to a team, withdrawal from a The Dean shall meet informally with the appellant as soon as practicable team, discipline and selection for awards and honours). It should be noted (normally within 5 working days) to review the matter. If a resolution that student-athletes are also subject to the Code of Student Conduct, the agreeable to both the appellant and the coach is achieved, no further Sexual Harassment Policy and other University policies, as well as OUA/U action is required. If such a resolution is not achieved, the Dean will SPORTS regulations. Where those policies are invoked, any appeals must undertake such research as they deem advisable and convene a formal be pursued according to the procedures set out in those policies. meeting or series of meetings involving the appellant (who may be accompanied by family members or other persons of their choice), B. Decisions Regarding Membership on a Team, Violation of Team Rules, and other aspects of Team Operation the Executive Director of Athletics, the coach, as well as other persons with information directly relevant to the issue. The Dean will strive to complete this process in an expeditious manner. The Dean will deliver STEP ONE a written decision to the appellant and the coach. The decision may The student-athlete / member is entitled to meet informally with the involve either modification, confirmation or extension of the original Manager of Intercollegiate Sport as soon as practical (normally within 5 decision. The Dean shall also clearly outline the further levels of appeal. working days) to review the matter. If a resolution agreeable to both the student-athlete and the coach is achieved, no further action is required. STEP THREE If the student-athlete wishes to launch a formal appeal, they shall submit The Appellant may appeal the Dean’s decision to the Council of Athletics written reasons for the appeal, together with relevant documents to the and Recreation by submitting a written notice to the Council Secretary Executive Director of Athletics within an additional 5 working days within 5 working days of the receipt of the written notice of the decision (or longer period if granted by the Executive Director of Athletics). The of the Dean in Step Two. This notice shall clearly indicate the grounds Executive Director of Athletics will undertake such research as they for the further appeal, which customarily are: lack of due process; deem advisable and convene a formal meeting or series of meetings possession of relevant new facts that were not available at the time of the involving the appellant (who may be accompanied by family members earlier step(s); a decision clearly contrary to Faculty/University policy. It or other persons of their choice), the coach, as well as other persons with should be noted that Step Three is not a re-hearing de novo but an appeal information directly relevant to the issue. The Executive Director of based solely on the grounds outlined by the appellant. Athletics will strive to complete this process in an expeditious manner. The Executive Director of Athletics will deliver a written decision to the Step Three appeals shall be governed by the policies and practices of the appellant and the coach. The decision may involve either modification, Council of Athletics and Recreation. The Secretary shall provide detailed confirmation or extension of the original decision. The Assistant Dean information to the appellant in a timely manner. This is the final level of shall also clearly outline the further levels of appeal. appeal within the Faculty.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 23 STEP FOUR F. Decisions Regarding Employment-Related Issues The University Affairs Board of the Governing Council of the Students/members who are appealing a decision stemming from University of Toronto has final jurisdiction over matters pertaining their employment or possible employment as a member of the casual to the Faculty of Kinesiology and Physical Education. Information staff related to the Intercollegiate Program shall follow the grievance regarding a Step Four appeal shall be provided by the Governing procedures contained in their collective agreement. Appellants not Council Secretariat. covered by a collective agreement should meet with the Manager, Intercollegiate Sport, who can advise on the most appropriate course C. Decisions Regarding Colour Awards, the T-Holders’ Varsity Blues of action. Achievement Awards, Faculty Monetary or Honorific Awards
Student-athletes/members with concerns in these areas should consult their coach and/or the appropriate administrative staff in the Program Office and/or the Faculty’s Office of Advancement. If the decision resulted from an administrative oversight, it shall be corrected in an expeditious manner.
If a possible appeal is to be based on grounds other than administrative oversight, the appellant shall meet with the Manager of Intercollegiate Sport, who shall review the issue and advise on the most appropriate course of action.
Appeals under this section may involve consideration of the issue by the Faculty’s Awards Committee.
Appeals to the Executive Director of Athletics, the Dean and the Council of Athletics and Recreation shall follow the procedures outlined in section 1.1.
D. OUA/U SPORTS Decisions Regarding Eligibility and/or Conduct
Appeals concerning OUA/U SPORTS decisions regarding student-
athlete eligibility and/or player conduct are handled according to the
procedures outlined by these organizations. Student-athletes should
meet with Manager of Intercollegiate Sport who can advise on the
most appropriate course of action.
E. Decisions Regarding Drug Tests Appeals concerning positive tests resulting from the U SPORTS drug-testing program are governed by the appeal procedures of the U SPORTS and the CCES. Student-athletes should meet with the Executive Director of Athletics as soon as possible.
24 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Section 8. Health Care
1. Mandatory Anti-Doping Education Session Appointments – call the front line staff at 416-978-4678, or come All student-athletes participating in sports in the University and in person. Toronto divisions along with curling and wrestling must complete the online anti-doping webinar. Sport Physicians All student-athletes must see a sport physician prior to receiving 2. Pre-Participation Medical Screening and Medical Questionnaire therapy or other follow-up care. There are a limited number of acute injury spots for varsity student-athletes each day. All students trying out for a Varsity team must complete an online medical questionnaire and submit a completed and signed consent Most medical services for Canadians are covered by provincial form prior to tryouts. medical plans. A provincial health card must be presented at each appointment. International students receive coverage through the Student-athletes are not permitted to participate in an open tryout, University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP). The clinic accepts these training session or competition until they complete a signed concussion plans directly. Student-athletes who have other private medical care and informed consent form as part of their VBRS registration and have plans will be required to pay for their medical services at the time been cleared for participation. of their appointment. There may be additional charges for materials used in treatments that are not covered by medical care plans. Preseason Cognitive & Vision Screening As part of our continued efforts toward excellence and best practice, Therapists the Faculty of Kinesiology & Physical Education has implemented an Therapists are assigned to specific teams. Once the physician refers important health and safety initiative for sports where there is a significant a student-athlete for therapy, the student-athlete will be typically be risk of concussion and brain injury. The study of concussion supports the booked with the therapist associated with your team. Approximately movement towards multimodal concussion assessment; thus, the goal one-third of therapy appointments are allocated for varsity student- is to obtain pre-season or “baseline” cognitive and vision testing on all athletes according to the Intercollegiate and High Performance Sport participants to inform treatment in the case of injury. The policy requires Model. To provide effective injury management, appointments and every student-athlete engaged in intercollegiate sports for which there is a future appointments, should be booked well in advance. significant risk for concussion, to complete a mandatory brief computerised There is an annual (May 1-April 30) $80.00 administration fee for all neuropsychological test, Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT-3), and varsity student-athletes requiring therapy services. This fee must be vision screening battery prior to the start of their athletic participation. paid prior to their initial therapy visit.
These sports are: baseball, basketball, field hockey, football, ice No Show/Same Day Cancellation Policy for Students hockey, lacrosse, rugby, soccer, volleyball and wrestling. This policy The clinic requires 24 hours’ notice for cancellation or rescheduling of all will help us ensure effective treatment of concussion/mild traumatic appointments, emergencies notwithstanding. The fee is $25.00 for missed brain injuries, recommend evidence-based return-to-play guidelines therapy or physician visits. Missed orthopaedic surgeons visits are the (in conjunction with ongoing research on concussion) and protect the cost of the visit. The clinic reserves the right to withhold therapy if there academic and professional careers of our future leaders. The test must is an outstanding balance. Payments may be made by Interac, VISA, becompleted prior to the student-athlete’s first competition. MasterCard or AMEX. Should a student-athlete miss 3 recorded no shows and/or same day cancellations for therapy (including Alter-G) the 3. David L. MacIntosh Sport Medicine Clinic Policy for Recurrent No Show/Same Day Cancellations comes into effect. This document is available for review at the clinic. The MacIntosh Sport Medicine Clinic is located on the 4th floor, north entrance, of the Goldring Centre for High Performance Sport. Clinic Hours of Operation The clinic is open to anyone with sport or exercise-related injuries or Please check the website for current hours of operation at inquires. The staff take great pride in providing state-of-the-art sport www.macintoshclinic.ca medicine care to our varsity student-athletes.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 25 4. Healthy Active Bodies Sports Nutrition Resources There are a number of resources on and off campus available to student- Coaches and student-athletes should recognize the role of nutrition in their athletes who are dealing with disordered eating. These resources are overall health and achievement of their athletic goals. Student-athletes who also helpful for friends and family members. Many of these confidential include performance nutrition as part of their training regime will have an services are available free of charge, or are covered by medical care advantage over otherwise equally dedicated, fit and skilled opponents. The programs. following are some basic rules of thumb; however, we strongly encourage you to discuss your nutritional needs with your coach, team therapist and/ •• The MacIntosh Sport Medicine Clinic located in the Goldring Centre. or our sports nutritionist Katie Jessop at [email protected]. •• Athletes@Risk program at Women’s College Hospital Sport CARE clinic. •• Eat foods from all four major food groups while avoiding large •• Nutritional counselling at Health Services in the Koffler Center amounts of alcohol, caffeine, salt and sugar. 416-978-8030. •• Place emphasis on foods low in fat and high in carbohydrates. •• Sheena’s Place: 87 Spadina Road, Toronto, ON, 416-927-8900. •• Spread snacks and meals throughout the day to ensure a constant •• Helix Health Care Group: 164 Eglinton Ave. E, Suite #400 Toronto, supply of energy. The quantity of food you consume should reflect ON, 647-921-2273 your energy expenditure and should take into account your long-term weight and body composition goals. •• The National Eating Disorder Information Center: 200 Elizabeth St., CW 1-328, Toronto, ON, 416-340-4156. •• Proper hydration is important; volumes and types of fluids to be 2018-2019consumed Varsity are Board dependent Representatives on the environmental conditions and intensity and duration of exercise.
Eating Disorders Eating disorders are a serious and common problem among today’s generation, especially among young women. The two primary types of eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia; both are characterized by fear of weight gain, feelings of ineffectiveness and low self-esteem. Anorexia is identified as drastic weight loss from dieting and is often accompanied by intense exercise. Bulimia is distinguished fluctuations in weight and cycles of binge eating followed by purging or ridding the body of unwanted food. Researchers and physicians have recognized that eating disorders among highly active, competitive student-athletes are often accompanied by additional medical and physical complications. This condition has been labeled the female student-athlete triad.
26 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 Section 9. Leadership and Structure of the Varsity Board: 1. One male and female representative from each Varsity Blues team, Governance if applicable. Representatives need to be varsity student-athletes: currently consuming eligibility (exceptional cases may be presented) Varsity Board with a keen interest and passion for student-athlete involvement, Varsity Board is a standing committee of the Faculty’s Council of Athletics community outreach and leadership development and Recreation and consists of representation of each of the 42 Varsity Blues teams. Participation in the Varsity Board provides an opportunity for 2. Intercollegiate staff members (non-voting member) student-athletes to engage within the four pillars of Varsity Blues Athletics: 3. Faculty Advisor/Coach (non-voting member) •• academics 4. Faculty Administrator (non-voting member) •• athletics •• community service The Varsity Board acts as a sounding board on all matters affecting intercollegiate athletics. The Varsity Board is a standing committee of the •• leadership Council of Athletics and Recreation, and as such, reports regularly to Council. Representatives are responsible to maintain constant dialogue with their teammates, and provide a leadership role in recruiting their fellow Varsity Board meets regularly throughout the academic year; student-athletes in the initiatives of the board. Representatives are the approximately once per month. student-athlete voice. Council of Athletics and Recreation (CAR) Varsity Board has four sub-committees that work exclusively on the following: The overall governing body of the athletic department is CAR. For details i) Academic and Leadership Development on membership and governance, please contact the council secretary, ii) Student-Athlete Engagement Susan Ivimey at [email protected]. iii) Communications iv) Community Outreach
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 27 Section 10. Frequently Asked Questions
1. Where can I go if I am in need of financial assistance?
•• Contact your College or Faculty Registrar and ask about the application procedures for bursaries. •• Visit the University of Toronto office of Student Awards to find out about emergency bursaries and other awards.
2. How much will it cost me to see other intercollegiate events at U of T?
•• Absolutely nothing for all regular season games! Come out to support all of our teams!
3. What do I do if I have been told there is an initiation or rookie night for our team and I do not wish to participate?
•• The Varsity Blue intercollegiate program and the University of Toronto does not condone any initiation or hazing activities. There are policies in place (Pages 10-11) to address initiation and hazing on intercollegiate teams and every effort is being made to introduce positive, welcoming orientation practices on campus. •• The first step should be to speak with your team captain and coach. •• If you are uncomfortable speaking to your team captain or coach, you should raise your concerns directly with Kevin Sousa at [email protected] or Melissa Krist at [email protected]. We support an open door policy and treat all concerns with confidentiality.
4. What do I do if I want to drop a course and am not sure how it will affect my athletic eligibility?
•• Consult the eligibility guidelines in this handbook. •• If you are still in doubt, contact Steve Manchur at [email protected]
28 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020
5. Where can I get information on housing on and around St. George campus?
•• You can get Off-Campus Housing and Residence Information at Housing Services in the Koffler Centre at 214 College St. or by e-mail at [email protected]. •• For information about housing at the UTM campus, please consult the website at http://www.utm.utoronto.ca/~w3rez/ •• For information about housing at the UTSC campus, please consult the website at http://www.utsc.utoronto.ca/~residences/
6. What do I do if I am unable to meet an assignment deadline or I will be missing a test due to a Varsity sport schedule conflict?
•• Meet with your professor early and try to arrange an alternative solution. •• Fill out the academic conflict form on the Athletes Only section of www.varsityblues.ca •• Submit your letter to your professor as early as possible.
7. In how many courses must a student-athlete be enrolled in order to be on a Varsity team?
•• A Varsity student-athlete must be enrolled in the three courses in the term of competition.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 29 IMPORTANT ACADEMIC DATES* 2019-20
Legend: APSC – Engineering FAS – Arts & Science (St. George) UTM – Mississauga UTSC – Scarborough
SEPTEMBER DECEMBER
3 UTSC Classes begin in F and Y courses 2 UTSC Last day to add or remove CR/NCR 5 UTM Classes begin in F and Y courses 2 UTSC Last day to request LWD from F courses 5 APSC Classes begin in F and Y courses 2 UTSC Classes end in F courses. Classes in Y courses break for holidays 5 FAS Classes begin in F and Y courses 4 FAS Classes end in F courses. Classes in Y courses break for holidays TBD FAS First day to request June 2018 graduation 4 APSC Last day of lectures in F courses 13 FAS Waiting lists for F and Y section code courses close 4 UTM Last day of classes 16 UTSC Last day to add F and Y courses 4 UTM Last day to request LWD from F courses 18 UTM Last day to add F and Y section code courses 5 FAS Last day to request LWD from F courses 18 FAS Last day to add F and Y section code courses 5 APSC Engineering study day 5 FAS Made-up Monday classes OCTOBER 3-5 UTSC Study Break 6 FAS Study Break 14 ALL Thanksgiving; University closed 5-6 UTM Study Break 14-18 UTM/UTSC Fall Reading Week 6-21 UTSC Final Examinations 31 APSC Examination timetable schedule posted 6-20 APSC Final Examinations 7-19 UTM Final Examinations NOVEMBER 7-20 FAS Final Examinations Dec. 23 - Jan. 3 ALL Winter holidays; University closed
4 APSC Last day to with draw from fall session without academic penalty 4 FAS Last day to drop F section courses without academic penalty JANUARY 4 FAS Last day to add or remove a CR/NCR option for F courses 4-8 FAS Fall reading week 6 ALL Classes begin in S and resume in Y courses 7 UTM Last day to drop F courses without academic penalty 13 APSC Classes for T-Program begin 18 UTSC Last day to drop F courses without academic penalty 16 FAS Waiting lists for S courses close 19 UTM Last day to add S courses 19 FAS Last day to add S courses 19 UTSC Last day to add S courses
30 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 FEBRUARY APRIL
TBD FAS April examination timetable posted 3 FAS/UTM/UTSC Classes end 17 ALL Family Day; University closed 3 FAS/UTSC Last day to request LWD from S and Y courses 17 FAS Last day to add or remove a CR/NCR for Y courses 3 UTSC/UTM Last day to add or remove CR/NCR 17 FAS Last day to drop Y courses without academic penalty 4-7 UTSC Study Break 17-21 ALL Reading Week - no classes 6-22 UTM Final examinations 28 APSC April examination timetable posted 6-25 FAS Final examinations 8-25 UTSC Final examinations MARCH 9 APSC Last day for Classes 10 ALL Good Friday. University closed 8 UTM Last day to drop S courses without academic penalty 13 APSC Study Break 15 APSC Last day to withdraw from winter session without academic penalty 14-28 APSC Final examinations 15 FAS Last day to drop S courses without academic penalty 15 FAS Last day to add or remove a CR/NCR for S courses 22 UTSC Last day to drop S courses without academic penalty
* Some information not known at time of publishing. Please refer to your faculty/campus academic calendar for all important dates.
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 31 2018 OUA Men's Water Polo Champions
Safety Information for Students, Staff and Faculty
•• http://www.safety.utoronto.ca/, is a website that acts as the first door to other resources and services, both on and off-campus.
The site provides student, staff and faculty with information on a number of tri-campus resources relating to safety programs and services, as well as emergency resources for those requiring immediate assistance.
Listed services and resources include:
• Campus Police • Assault Counselling • Community Safety Office • Safety Abroad Program • 24-hour Off Campus Crisis Resources • U of T Health & Wellness Services • Emergency Housing Services • Sexual Harassment Office • Work Alone Program • WalkSafer Programs
32 | Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 HELPFUL UNIVERSITY RESOURCES
St. George Campus Athletic Centre 416-978-3436 Career Centre 416-978-8000 Chaplains’ Office 416-978-8100 Community Safety Coordinator 416-978-0385 Counseling and Learning Skills 416-978-7970 Family Care Office 416-978-0951 Graduate Students’ Union 416-978-2391 Hart House 416-978-2452 Health & Wellness 416-978-8030 Housing Service 416-978-8045 Human Resources 416-978-2111 International Student Centre 416-978-2564 Sexual & Gender Diversity Office 416-946-5624 Ombudsperson 416-946-3485 U of T Police (St.- George Campus) 416-978-2323 2018 OUA Men's Water Polo Champions Psychiatric Services 416-978-8030 Race Relations and Anti-Racism Initiatives 416-978-1259 Robarts Library 416-978-8450 University of Toronto Student Union 416-978-4911 Sexual Education Centre 416-978-8732 Sexual Harassment Office 416-978-3908 Status of Women Office 416-978-2757 First Nations House 416-978-8227 Mississauga Campus Personal Counselor and Registrar Services 905-828-5399 Health Services 905-828-5255 U of T Police (Mississauga Campus) 905-828-5200 Police Emergency 905-569-4333 Women’s Centre 905-569-4605 Scarborough Campus Health Wellness Centre 416-287-7065 Registrar’s Student Services 416-287-7001 (Academic Advising, Registrarial Services, Financial Aid, Learning Skills & Career Centre) U of T Police (Scarborough Campus) 416-287-7333 True Blue at U of T's first-ever Pride Game in 2018-19
Student-Athlete Handbook 2019–2020 | 33