DUMONT HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT/PARENT HANDBOOK

This handbook has been prepared to enhance communication between parents, student/athletes, coaches and school administrators. Parents and athletes are asked to familiarize themselves with the contents of this handbook. Any concerns or questions may be directed to the Director of Athletics, at (201) 387-3094. Questions regarding specific sports should first be directed to the head coach of the team that your son/daughter is playing on.

At the start of each season a Student-Athlete Awareness and “Meet the Coaches” meeting is held. This is an important meeting and all parents should attend. Specific items relative to the athletic policies and programs are discussed. Parents will also be given an opportunity to meet coaches of the sport their sons/daughters are playing on. We also encourage the parents to demonstrate their support by attending as many athletic contests as possible.

Dumont High School has a proud tradition of honor in athletics and expects every athlete to uphold that tradition by maintaining the highest standards of performance, behavior and leadership. Every athlete who represents our school must agree to abide by the rules and regulations that have been formulated by our athletic department. These rules and regulations must be read and signed by the athlete and his/her parent/guardian. Violations will be dealt with firmly and may result in suspension from the team.

The NJSIAA and the BIG NORTH CONFERENCE hold the DUMONT HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT in high regard. Athletes are expected to uphold this tradition by exhibiting the highest level of competition and sportsmanship. Dumont athletes traditionally are noted for dedication to their sport, intense competitiveness, and respect for opponents and officials.

The State Interscholastic Athletic Association (NJSIAA) worked with conjunction with the New Jersey Department of Education to implement and developed a random testing program for steroids, of individuals and teams qualifying for championship games. Beginning in the fall of the 2006 sport season, all student athletes and parent/guardian must sign the NJSIAA “Consent to Random Testing Form”. If you have any specific questions regarding this new state policy please call the Director of Athletics, at (201) 387-3094.

The New Jersey Department of Education (NJDOE), working in conjunction with recommendations from the NJSIAA and the Nation Federation of High School Sports (NFHS), have developed strict guidelines regarding the diagnosis and treatment of sports- related concussions and head injuries. Legislation (P.L. 2010, Chapter 94) signed on December 7, 2010, mandated measures to be taken in order to ensure the safety of K-12 student-athletes involved in interscholastic . It is imperative that athletes, coaches, and parent/guardians are educated about the nature and treatment of sports related concussions and other head injuries. More information can be found in the Concussion Policy/Head Injury Management section of this handbook.

MISSION STATEMENT 1

It is the intent of DUMONT’S ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT to provide the students of the high school a comprehensive, well-planned and balanced program of interscholastic athletics, and to show students how they can benefit from participation in this type of activity.

The program shall be managed and teams coached in a manner to achieve the following objectives:

• Promote individual and team desire for excellence while emphasizing that interscholastic sports are kept in perspective and that the first priority for all students is intellectual and emotional growth.

• Encourage enjoyment of competition, a desire to win and a healthy attitude toward winning and losing.

• Develop self-confidence and self-respect for each team member.

• Develop the specialized talents, skills and physical fitness of each participant.

• Develop attitudes and skills that foster teamwork, cooperation, loyalty and spirit.

• Develop the highest degree of sportsmanship, sense of fair play, and respect for coaches, game officials, and especially fellow athletes, both teammates and opponents.

NEW JERSEY INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

This year marks the 98th year of the NJSIAA. The NJSIAA (www.njsiaa.org) is a private, non-profit, voluntary organization that is responsible for regulating interscholastic athletics in New Jersey. The NJSIAA governs and controls all the sports programs offered to high school girls and boys.

Over the last few years the Association has broken new ground so as to focus on academic consideration, and regulating leagues and conferences throughout New Jersey to provide an opportunity for all participating schools to become members of athletic conferences suitable to their geographic location and size.

The member schools, their communities, and the society as a whole desire academic excellence and recognition; activities free from unsportsmanlike acts; and a culture free of substance abuse. This Association as part of its responsibility to New Jersey’s leaders of tomorrow must address these issues.

2 PARTICIPATION LIMITATIONS

The NJSIAA Constitution, Bylaws, Rules and Regulations have for all intents and purposes defined the 12- month sequence of participation in the following manner:

(A) In-Season (B) Out-of-Season (C) Summer Recess

(A) IN-SEASON

Athletes are able to participate on their desired sport team within the following datelines:

• Fall…………………………………………………… August 12th to December 3rd • Winter**...…………………………………………… November 25th to March 7th • Spring………………………………………………… March 6th to June 9th

*All season close dates are subject to change based on performance in state sanctioned tournaments or alterations in scheduling from inclement weather

**Official start date for Bowling is November 11th **Official start date for Swimming is November 11th

Specific sport seasons begin according to the following schedule:

Ÿ August 14th - Football • August 12th - Boys Soccer, Volleyball, Girls Soccer, Cross Country • November 11th - Swimming • November 11th - Bowling • November 25th - Girls/Boys , Wrestling, Winter Track • March 6th - , , Golf. Track and Field

(B) OUT-OF SEASON

• During this period, athletes may not be involved in intramurals in which they have attained team status.

• Open gym and out of season leagues participation is permitted for players as long as their coaches are not present.

• Non-school camp/clinic participation is permitted for players provided their coaches are not involved.

• Athletes may participate in local community sponsored recreation programs as long as their coaches are not involved. • Athletes may be involved with a non-school team with the approval of their school.

• Athletes who are currently a member of a school sponsored team are not permitted to participate for any out of season team or league. An out of season

3 team or league is defined as recreation, fall/winter/spring leagues, club teams and intramurals.

(C) SUMMER RECESS

From the last day of school to the first day of the next school term all restrictions are rescinded for practice for all sports. Schools may issue any and all equipment for practice use during the summer recess and the local school district may determine to what extent the school, coaches, and the students are to be involved in the “summer recess” program (as per NJSIAA regulations).

During the summer recess period, an athlete may not be sponsored or supported by a school or school-related group (Booster Club) when team-interscholastic or individual competition takes place as part of the activity in camps, clinics or recreation programs. a. Coaches are acting independently and not serving as agents of Dumont High School while partaking in summer camps and/or recreational leagues. b. Participation in summer camp, or in other summer activities, will not determine whether a player earns a position or starting position on a team.

STUDENT/ATHLETE PARTICIPATION

Participation in athletics at Dumont High School is a privilege granted to a student, not a right guaranteed to them, which carries with it certain responsibilities. A student is not only a representative of the school but also the entire community. There are certain basic standards expected of the participants in athletics at Dumont.

1. All students who represent Dumont on a team are expected to conduct themselves in such a manner as to reflect credit upon the school district. 2. All students must remember they are students of the school first and participants in athletics second. 3. Being a member of a team does not entitle a student to any special privileges in the school. Rather, it may carry a burden of being a good citizen in the face of peer pressure to become involved in some action, which might violate school rules. Our athletes are expected to set examples of good school citizenship and cooperation, which will reflect upon them as individuals and upon all our athletes in general. 4. Students afforded these privileges must assume the responsibilities, which accompany them at all times.

Students are free to choose the sport they would like to participate in.

1. A student makes the decision to participate in a particular sport. If the student cannot live with the decision that was made and finds it necessary to quit a squad for any number of reasons…this is the student’s prerogative. 2. Some students quit with the desire to participate in one of the other sports in season at the time. In an effort to provide every student the chance to go through a reasonable try-out period, the following policy will be followed in permitting a student to drop one sport and participate in another:

4 a. No change will be permitted three (3) weeks after the initial practice date of a particular fall sport during the fall sports season. b. No change will be permitted two (2) weeks after the initial practice date of a particular winter sport during the winter sports season. c. No change will be permitted two (2) weeks after the initial practice date of a particular spring sport during the spring sports season. d. To permit any student to change after these dates would render a particular hardship on the student in terms of learning the facets of the game already taught to other members of the squad.

CONFLICTING ACTIVITIES DURING SPORT SEASON

Prior to the start of any season, an athlete must realize his/her obligation/responsibility to the team and refrain from scheduling any conflicting activity during that season. Athletes can not miss high school practices and/or games for non-high school related sports/ exposure camps as well as AAU, Club Teams practices or games. No student athlete in season will be permitted to miss or participate in any out of season league or team: defined in the Out Of Season definition.

INCLEMENT WEATHER GUIDELINES

If school is closed due to “inclement weather”, all games and practices are subject to postponement. Your son/daughter will be contacted by the coaching staff. If school is in session, a decision will be made by the administration and in conjunction with the opposing school by 1:45pm of that particular day. During the summer recess all camps, work-outs and games (summer leagues, 7on7) are subject to postponement due to extreme conditions (95 degrees or hotter with a heat index above 100 degrees, Thunder and Lightning).

UNFORESEEN EMERGENCY GUIDELINES

If school is closed or in session and an “unforeseen emergency” occurs, all games and practices are cancelled. Your son/daughter will be contacted by the coaching staff or a school administrator if school is not in session.

HAZING

Dumont High School requires the mutual respect of all students, staff and visitors. To this end, the Athletic Department requires your compliance against hazing or team initiations of any kind. Any coercive interactions among students, especially when such interactions make even one student uncomfortable is considered hazing and will be subject to disciplinary action. In particular, initiations-e.g. requiring students to participate in any disagreeable or unpleasant activities-are considered hazing. No hazing or initiation will be tolerated, either on or off campus and will be dealt with severely.

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TRANSFER RULE

1. A student who transfers from one secondary school to another because of a bona-fide change of residence by his/her parent/guardian, or through assignment by the Board of Education, becomes eligible to represent his/her new school immediately upon entrance (unless recruitment or transfer for athletic advantage is proven) and provided all other eligibility regulations are satisfied. • DEFINITION: A bona fide change of residence takes place when the parent/guardian moves with the student from one public high school district to another public high school district.

• For more information on the TRANSFER RULE starting go to the NJSIAA website. www.njsiaa.org under the References tab: Eligibility

CONTEST DISQUALIFICATION

As per NJSIAA policy, an athlete who displays unsportsmanlike misconduct, physical or verbal, and is ejected from an athletic contest, will be disqualified from the next two regularly scheduled games/meets, with the exception of football, which will carry a one game disqualification. (The school reserves the right to take further administrative action.)

Disqualification is a judgment call by the official and the decision is final and may not be appealed.

A disqualified player may not be present at any contest in that sport during the period of disqualification (not present in the locker room, on the bus, on the sidelines or in the bleachers/stands before, during, or after the game).

Any player disqualified a second time during a 365-day period from the first disqualification will have the penalty doubled. On the third offense, the player will be suspended indefinitely, and must apply in writing, to the NJSIAA through the office of his/her principal for reinstatement.

Seniors who are disqualified from their last game will serve the penalty in a subsequent sports season. When seniors are disqualified from their last game of their high school careers, the school is required to take proper administrative action to discipline the offending student.

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ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY

The NJSIAA Rules and Regulations regarding eligibility are mandatory. In addition, the Dumont Board of Education has adopted the following guidelines for students participating in high school athletics.

To be eligible for athletic competition during the first semester (September 1 to January 31) of the 10th grade or higher, or the second year of attendance in the secondary school or beyond, a pupil must have passed 25% of the credits required by the State of New Jersey for graduation (30 credits) during the immediately preceding academic year. To be eligible for athletic competition during the second semester (Feb. 1 to June 30) of the 9th grade or higher, a pupil must have passed the equivalent of 12.5% of the credits (15 credits) required by New Jersey for graduation (120 credits) at the close of the preceding semester (Jan. 31). Full-year courses shall be equated as one-half of the total credits to be gained for the full year to determine credits passed during the immediately preceding semester.

These academic requirements will apply to all athletes. Additional information regarding eligibility can be obtained upon request from the athletic director.

HIGH SCHOOL ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Fall/Winter 9th Grade All eligible 10th /11th and 30.0 credits, need to be earned from 12th Grade the previous school year.

Spring Season 9th/10th /11thand Must be passing 15.0 credits from 12th Grade the first semester.

The following teams play during the designated seasons:

Fall Program Winter Program

Boys/Girls Cross Country Competition Cheering Football, Cheering Boys/Girls Basketball, Indoor Track Boys/Girls-soccer Boys/Girls Bowling Volleyball Wrestling Boys/Girls Swimming (Co-op)

Spring Program

Baseball, Softball, Outdoor Track, Golf

Varsity teams are composed of athletes from all grade levels. Junior varsity teams include juniors, sophomores, and freshman. Only freshman may participate on freshman teams, in the case of limited freshmen participation a sub-varsity team of freshmen and 7 sophomores may need to be formed to maintain a freshmen schedule. In order to participate in a game or practice, the student-athlete must be present in school for a minimum of three sessions (50% of the school day).

GENERAL ACADEMIC INFORMATION

Student athletes must always keep in mind that their first priority is their schoolwork. Many studies show that athletes can maintain a high level of performance in the classroom and on the field if they make effective use of their unscheduled time. If students are having difficulty in a specific subject, they are encouraged to seek extra help.

N.C.A.A. CLEARINGHOUSE

The N.C.A.A. ruled that beginning in 1995, no student-athlete shall be considered a full academic qualifier unless he/she meets the standards. The web site for information is: www.ncaa.org.

AGE ELIGIBILITY

You cannot participate in any level of high school athletics if you have reached the age of 19 prior to September 1st of the current school year.

ATTENDANCE ELIGIBILITY

In order for a student to participate in a scheduled athletic event and/or practice, he/she must be in school for minimum of three sessions and all scheduled afternoon classes on the day of the event, or the last day of school prior to a Saturday event. An excuse from a doctor or prior written approval from the athletic director or administration is the only VALID excuse. Excessive absenteeism, tardiness and cutting classes will not be tolerated. Under no circumstances would a school issued detention (weekday or Saturday detention) be viewed as a valid excused absence.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE FROM PRACTICE

• First Violation - Coach records violation and the penalty is up to the discretion of the coach. • Second Violation - The athlete will not participate in the next game or contest.

UNEXCUSED ABSENCE FROM A CONTEST

• First Violation - The athlete will not participate in the next comparable contest (i.e. if an athlete is absent from a contest, they sit a contest; if they are absent for a festival/county/state/tournament contest(s) they may sit more than one contest or a similar contest at the coaches’ discretion. • Second Violation - The athlete will be suspended from the team for a period of time determined by the head coach and Athletic Director. Whenever a student-athlete is prohibited from playing due to a rules infraction the Athletic Director must be notified.

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ATTENDANCE DURING SCHOOL VACATIONS

• Varsity players are expected at all practices and games, including those scheduled during the times when school is not in session. • Junior Varsity and Freshmen athletes are also expected at all practices, but may be excused by their coaches in the event of a family commitment during vacation times. Athletes should notify their coaches at least one week prior to the expected absence. It is expected, however, that no athlete will be absent from games or contests.

ATHLETIC PHYSICALS

Before the start of each of the seasons, the athletic director will make arrangements with the school nurse to have candidates for teams examined by the school physician. Dates for these physicals are provided to the students through in school announcements and in a letter sent home. Students are permitted to use their primary care physician as long as the proper forms are filled out and returned to the school nurse at least two weeks prior to the start of the season.

STUDENT SAFETY / INJURY PROTOCOL

If your child has sustained an injury and requires crutches, cane, walker, brace, etc. a doctor’s order must accompany the athlete upon his/her return. This order must state that the athlete has been taught how to safely ambulate the stars using these devices. In addition, a doctor’s order must also accompany your child if he/she needs to be transported via wheelchair during the school day.

PARTICIPATION FORMS

Before a student goes out for a sport, the appropriate paperwork must be filled out by a parent/guardian. An athletic physical will not be administrated until all the forms contained in the packet are read and signed by the parent/guardian and the prospective candidate for a team. All necessary forms can be acquired from the Dumont Athletic Department or downloaded from the DHS Athletic Wiki page. A parent/guardian should have received the following forms:

1. Health history questionnaire (Part A) required by law to be filled out and signed by parent/quardian and student. 2. Physical Evaluation Form (Part B) required by law to be completed by the examining licensed provider MD, DO, APN or PA). 3. Student participation and parental permission form 4. Emergency information sheet 5. Chemical Abuse and Hazing policy 6. Consent to Random Steroid Testing 7. Epi-pen an or Inhaler Clearance Form

9 8. Impact (Neurological Baseline) Testing Letter 9. Photograph/Video USE AUTHORIZATION form

Once a student has undergone an athletic physical, a medical clearance is only needed if there is a change in the athlete’s health. Sports physicals are good for one year.

CONCUSSION POLICY/HEAD INJURY MANAGEMENT

Policy:

All Athletes sustaining a head injury will be thoroughly examined and closely monitored to determine the nature and severity of the injury for which an appropriate course of treatment may be prescribed.

Procedure:

• All athletes participating in athletics shall be asked to take a baseline neuropsychological ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) test prior to his/her participation in that sport. This test will be utilized to determine the athlete’s recovery after a concussion and will be performed every two (2) years following the concussion. (Baseline should be every 2 years concussion or no concussion) The results of the test are strictly confidential and will be provided only to the athlete, his/her parents and participating physicians upon request and in accordance with all applicable privacy laws. • Any athlete who sustained a brain injury shall be asked to take a follow up ImPACT test with the ATC or a participating physician within 48-72 hours post injury. Also, athletes can be asked to take a follow up test weekly until they are completely symptom free. • Concussion severity can be graded using either the American Academy of Neurology Concussion Grading Scale or the Cantu evidence Based Grading System for Concussions as identified by the NATA’s Position Statement: Management of Sport-Related Concussions. Accurately grading concussions with these two systems can only be accomplished once the presence and duration of specific symptoms and signs have been identified and determined. Although grading concussions is useful for assisting with management of future concussions, it should not be solely used to determine whether an athlete is able to return to play. • The Athletic Trainer Certified (ATC) or team physician deemed as a “Concussion Management Specialist” will perform a complete initial evaluation. Follow up evaluations, either in person or by phone, should then be performed every 24 hours until the athlete has been asymptomatic for several concurrent days. Any Athlete who sustained a brain injury will be required to see a “Concussion Management Specialist” (physician or licensed healthcare provider trained in the evaluation and management of sports-related concussions or head injuries) to receive written clearance to begin “return-to-play” protocol. Close monitoring is required once the athlete begins the graduated return-to-play protocol supervised by a licensed athletic trainer.

10 • Any athlete who sustains two (2) concussions in one season will be referred for a psycho-neurological evaluation and medical exam. • The ATC will notify the school nurse (RN) of any head injuries that occurred so the school nurse can arrange for proper accommodations for that athlete during school hours. • The ATC will notify athlete’s parents of any head injuries that have occurred and recommend a treatment plan. • The ATC will document all evaluation findings and management. • The decision to resume participation in the sport and return to play will be based on the severity of the concussion, its length, the athlete’s history of prior head injuries and results of the ImPACT testing and a clinical evaluation conducted by a Concussion Management Specialist, only the district physician serving as the “Concussion Management Specialist” can release an injured athlete to begin the “return-to-play” protocol. • If symptom-free for 24-72 hours and cleared by a Concussion Management Specialist, ATC may begin 6-day exercise protocol. The athlete must be monitored during this time for any re-occurrence of concussion symptoms. • If concussion symptoms re-occur during the exercise protocol, the athlete will return to previous level of activity that caused no symptoms, and then advance as tolerated.

Graduated “Return-to-Play” Protocol

1. Completion of a full day of normal cognitive activities (school day, studying for tests, watching practice, interacting with peers) without re-emergence of any signs or symptoms. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to: 2. Light aerobic exercise, which includes walking, swimming, or stationary cycling, keeping the intensity < 70% maximum percentage heart rate: no resistance training. The objective of this step is increased heart rate. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to: 3. Sport-specific exercise including skating, and/or running; no head impact activities. The objective of this step is to add movement and continue to increase heart rate. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to: 4. Non-contact training drills (e.g., passing drills). The student-athlete may initiate progressive resistance training. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to: 5. Following medical clearance (consultation between school health care personnel, i.e., Licensed Athletic Trainer, School/Team Physician, School Nurse and student- athlete’s physician), participation in normal training activities. The objective of this step is to restore confidence and to assess functional skills by the coaching staff. If no return of symptoms, next day advance to: 6. Return to play involving normal exertion or game activity.

Please Note: The timeline the athlete is removed from practice/contests is 6 days from the time he/she is released (symptom free) by a “Concussion Management Specialist”. By following this protocol we will help to ensure that the athlete returns safely and without

11 further complications. The ATC will be in contact with the athlete and his/her parents/guardians consistently throughout this process.

Signs and Symptoms that may indicate that a concussion has occurred. 1.Signs Observed by a member of the coaching staff, athletic trainer or physician. • Appears dazed or stunned. • Is confused about assignment. • Forgets plays. • Is unsure of game, score or opponent. • Moves clumsily. • Answers questions slowly. • Loses consciousness. • Shows behavior or personality changes. • Can’t recall events prior to hit. • Can’t recall events after hit.

2. Symptoms Reported by athlete • Headache • Nausea • Balance problems or dizziness • Double or fuzzy vision • Sensitivity to light or noise • Feeling sluggish • Feeling foggy or groggy • Concentration or memory problems. • Confusion

More information can be obtained by reviewing the Sports-Related Concussion and Head Injury Fact Sheet and Parent/Guardian Acknowledgement Form, please note the acknowledgement form must be signed and returned to the athletic office prior to participation in athletics at the start of every school year.

ATHLETIC INSURANCE

The Board of Education has purchased insurance coverage to protect all participants in interscholastic sports in case of an accidental injury resulting from such participation.

The athletic insurance is supplemental coverage. It will pay those expenses not covered (including deductibles) by any other medical insurance. You must submit all bills to your own insurance company first. The school policy will pick up the unpaid balances up to the limits of the policy. Contact the athletic trainer (387-3000 x 3096), for the insurance forms and if you have any questions regarding injuries or insurance coverage.

Although this coverage is very broad, there are restrictions, limitations, and exclusions in this policy. IN MANY SITUATIONS, MEDICAL BILLS MAY NOT BE

12 COVERED IN FULL. Parents should understand that medical expenses are their own responsibility, not the responsibility of the Board of Education.

All injuries must be immediately reported to the coach and athletic trainer. The school will provide claim forms, but it is the parents’ responsibility to: 1. Submit the claim form with Part II filled out completely. (Any omissions will delay the processing of the claim.) 2. Submit all itemized bills. (Monthly statements will not be accepted.) 3. Submit the statement received from your own insurance company showing amounts paid and balance due, or a letter of denial stating the claim is not covered. One of these letters is required for any payments to be made. 4. If you have no other medical insurance, you will receive a letter from the company to sign and have notarized. Return this to the company immediately and the claim will be considered for payment. Failure to return this letter will result in a delay or denial of the claim.

It is your responsibility, and to your own benefit, to submit the necessary papers as soon as possible. The claim cannot be considered until all papers are submitted. ONLY ONE CLAIM FORM PER ACCIDENT/INJURY IS REQUIRED.

All claim forms, bills and letters from other insurance companies are to be forwarded to, and questions regarding the coverage, answered by:

Bollinger Inc. P.O. Box 706 Short Hills, NJ 07078-0706 (800) 526-1379

EQUIPMENT

Any and all athletic equipment issued by the school becomes the responsibility of the athlete during the season. Special care must be taken to lock all equipment in the locker room during practices and games. Athletes are not provided with locks, they are reminded not to bring large amounts of money to school. Also, expensive jewelry should not be worn to school and left in the locker room. Within one week of the conclusion of the season, all equipment and clean uniforms must be returned to the coaches. Any missing uniforms will be handled as a financial obligation and diplomas, report cards and/or schedules will not be given out until the uniforms are returned or a fee paid. If an athlete quits or is removed from a team during the season, the uniform and/or any equipment that was school issued must be returned within one week of termination.

PRACTICE SCHEDULE

There are practice sessions every day after school beginning approximately at 3:15 PM. The length of the practice is up to the discretion of the individual coaches. The daily schedule for fall practice teams may vary in time with the use of the new facilities and presence of field lights. Practice sessions are also conducted on weekends with Sundays

13 off (a Sunday practice could occur due to a league or state competition or to accommodate a make-up game).

TRANSPORTATION

All student athletes must use the transportation provided by the district to away contests. If a situation arises when a parent/ guardian must pick up the athlete at an away event, prior parent/guardian permission must be obtained. The procedure for this is as follows: 1. Parent/guardians must make advance request in writing for the release of their son/daughter to themselves or other parents. 2. A travel release form must be filled out one day prior to the contest. The parent and athletic director must sign the form. The form is available in the athletic office. 3. The form must then be given to the coach prior to boarding the bus. 4. In the event of an immediate emergency (one that occurs on the same day of the event), the parent/guardian should contact the athletic office and then bring a note to the game or contest that says they are taking their child home. 5. Parents will not be allowed to transport student(s) to an athletic contest (Home or Away) when the athlete has missed a scheduled departure or meet time because of a school detention.

STUDENTS WILL NEVER BE ALLOWED TO DRIVE THEIR OWN CARS TO AN AWAY CONTEST!!!

ATHLETIC TRAINING PROGRAM

The training room is open every day at 11:00 AM. Our trainer can be reached at (201) 387-3000 x 3096. Services include injury prevention strategies, injury assessment, taping, follow-up care and rehabilitation. We encourage athletes and parents to immediately report all injuries to the coaches and trainer no matter the type of injury. Any athlete, who sustains an injury during a school-related activity, must report it to his /her coach immediately; the coach will in turn report the injury to the athletic trainer. The trainer will be responsible for providing this information to the school nurse. If any injury occurs outside of school, it must be reported to the coach prior to the athlete’s next practice or game.

WEIGHT TRAINING PROGRAM

The weight room at the high school is located directly below the old gym. The room is utilized by various teams during the season, at the discretion of the coaches. Also, during the school year, the room will be open to those athletes not involved in a sport. During the summer months of July and August, the weight room is open for high school students in the district. A schedule of days/times is posted outside the weight room.

14 The room is always supervised and no student is permitted to use the room without supervision. All participants are given programs of instruction and safety procedures to develop the health and fitness of our student athletes.

ADMISSION PRICES TO ATHLETIC CONTESTS

Spectators are charged to attend home football, wrestling and basketball games. This practice also occurs when we play away contests. The Big North Conference sets the price of admission at $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for students and senior citizens therefore admission price is the same at all home and away league contests. Students with an S.O. card will be admitted free to all home contests.

SPORTSMANSHIP

Whether players or spectators, the school’s reputation is dependent upon the actions of its students at an athletic event. A good spectator enjoys the contest without being a source of annoyance to those about him. A good sport accepts defeat without blaming the team or officials, a victory without deriding the opponents. Let’s take pride in our sportsmanship. The NJSIAA awards an annual “Sportsmanship Banner”. Earning this significant recognition remains our number one athletic goal.

CODE OF BEHAVIOR FOR ATHLETIC EVENTS

October, 2002, Governor McGreevy signed an “Athletic Code of Conduct” (N.J.S.A. 5:17-2) into law. The following is Dumont’s code:

1. Enthusiastically encourage your own team. 2. Refrain from abusive or irritating remarks and booing. 3. Accept the decisions of officials with good grace. 4. Protect the safety and comfort of the players or spectators. Don’t throw objects, use noisemakers, signs or banners. 5. Any person obviously and intentionally violating the letter or spirit of the code will be subject to ejection from the contest and may not be allowed to attend further athletic contests. Remember that it is a privilege to attend high school athletic contests. Negative behavior will not be tolerated.

PLAYERS

Good sportsmanship is the mark of a good player: • Do not swear or fight • Use self control • Do nothing which will bring discredit to your school

15 • Win graciously; lose without an alibi • Accept officials’ judgment without question • Give your personal best each and every time for your team and school • Avoid any reference to the color, creed, or nationality of your opponents • All team cheering should be positive with no intimidating or demeaning chants, gestures, derogatory remarks • All players must follow the Code of Behavior for Athletic Contests

SPECTATORS

Spectators have an important role in the success of an athletic program. If the program is going to be successful, spectators must encourage good sportsmanship, courteous treatment of visitors and absolute fairness under all conditions. The purpose of fans is to support their school, not intimidate or ridicule the other team. It is important that spectators remember this important rule:

The Players Play the Game The Coaches Coach the Game The Officials Officiate the Game And…The Fans enjoy the Game.

PLEASE CONCENTRATE ON YOUR AREA OF THE GAME!

PARENT/COACH RELATIONSHIP

Both parenting and coaching are extremely difficult vocations. By establishing an understanding of each position, we are better able to accept the actions of the others and provide greater benefit to children. As parents, when your children become involved in our program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child. This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s program.

1. Communication you should expect from your child’s coach

a. Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all the players on the squad b. Locations and times of all practices and contests c. Team requirements, school and team rules, special equipment, off-season expectations d. Procedure to be followed should your child be injured during participation e. Discipline that result in the denial of your child’s participation

2. Communication coaches expect from players

a. Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance. b. Specific concerns in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations.

As your children become involved in the programs at DHS, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives. It is important to understand that

16 there also may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes. At these times discussion with the coach is encouraged.

3. Appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches

a. The treatment of your child, mentally and physically. b. Ways to help your child improve. c. Concerns about your child’s behavior.

It is very difficult to accept your child’s not playing as much as you may hope. Coaches are professionals. They make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be best for all students involved. As you have seen from the list above, certain things can and should be discussed with your child’s coach. Other things, such as those following must be left to the discretion of the coach.

4. Issues not appropriate to discuss with coaches

a. Playing time b. Team strategy c. Play calling d. Other student-athletes

There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are to be encouraged. It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed to help promote a resolution to the issue of concern.

• Call to set up an appointment. • The DHS Athletic Department telephone number is (201) 387-3094. • Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution. • If the meeting with the coach does not provide a satisfactory resolution then please feel free to call and set up an appointment with the Director of Athletics to further discuss the situation.

Since research indicates a student involved in co-curricular activities has a greater chance for success during adulthood, these programs have been established. Many of the character traits required to be a successful participant are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school. We hope the information provided within this pamphlet makes both your child’s and your experience with the DHS Athletic program less stressful and more enjoyable.

17 PARENTS CODE OF CONDUCT

• I will encourage good sportsmanship by being a positive role model • I will try my best to make athletics a positive experience for everyone involved • I will insist my athlete treat other players, coaches, officials, and fans with respect • I will reinforce the school’s drug and alcohol free policies • I will do my best to understand and appreciate the rules of the contest • I will show appreciation for outstanding plays by either team • I will help my child learn that success is measured by the development of skills, not winning or losing. • If I have a concern, I will talk to the coach at the appropriate time and place…never before, during or immediately after a contest. • I will do my best to remember that my ticket to a school athletic event provides me with the privilege of observing the contest, not berating officials, coaches, or players.

AWARDS

Three times during the year an athletic awards program is held in the evening in order to recognize the achievements of all athletes who have completed their individual sports season. Letters, certificates and/or pins are presented along with individual awards and honors.

CRITERIA

The coach shall recommend the members of the team who have met the requirements for an athletic award. Any and all awards will be made only if, in the judgment of the awarding coach, the student’s performance has merited the award. Coaches, in consultation with the Athletic Director, will reserve the right to waive specific criteria in cases of injury/special situations.

To earn a varsity letter, an athlete must complete his/her season; be designated as a varsity player and:

FALL SPORTS:

Football: • Athletes must appear in 18 quarters of play or play in 25% of the scheduled games.

Cross Country: • A runner must earn 12 varsity points per season. Coach will distribute point system at the beginning of the season.

Volleyball: • An athlete must play and compete in at least half of the scheduled varsity matches

18 Soccer: • An athlete must play in half of the quarters of the scheduled games; or a player must dress in one-half of the regular season varsity games; goaltenders must dress in 6 games.

WINTER SPORTS:

Basketball / : • An athlete must appear in one (1) quarter of each regular season scheduled game or the equivalent thereof.

Bowling: • A bowler must participate in at least six (6) of the regular season scheduled varsity matches

Indoor Track: • An athlete must earn 20 varsity points per season. Coach will distribute point system at the beginning of the season.

Wrestling: • An athlete must wrestle in one-half (1/2) of the regular season meets

Swimming: • Swimmer achieves an established cut time for any one event in a championship meet (Conference, County, State meets). Swimmer participates in 75% of all dual meets (including state tournament if applicable) and averages 4 points per dual meet.

SPRING SPORTS:

Baseball and Softball: • A player must participate in one-third (1/3) of all varsity games.

Golf: • A player must play in one-half (1/2) of the scheduled matches or score in at least two matches. To score, a player must win two matches, if match play is used or be one of the top four players if medal play is used; or participate in six matches.

Track: • An athlete must earn 14 points in varsity competitions. Coach will distribute point system at the beginning of the season.

Revised 05/1/18

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