River States Conference Bylaws
Table of Contents
Article I: Recognized Sports ...... 3 1.1 Required Core Sports ...... 3 1.2 Official Conference Sports ...... 3 1.3 Elimination of Sports ...... 4 1.4 Exclusivity ...... 4 1.5 Championships ...... 4
Article II: Achieving Membership ...... 5 2.1 Requirements ...... 5 2.2 Procedure ...... 5
Article III: Standing Committees ...... 6 3.1 Advisory Groups ...... 6 3.2 Standing Committees...... 7 3.3 Ad Hoc Committees ...... 11
Article IV: Conference Commissioner, Other Employees, Agents and Officers ...... 11 4.1 Commissioner ...... 11 4.2 Acting Commissioner ...... 15 4.3 Other Employees ...... 15 4.4 Agents ...... 17
Article V: Conduct of Meetings ...... 19 5.1 Official Meetings of the Administrative Council ...... 19 5.2 Official Meetings of the Council of Presidents ...... 20 5.3 Rules of Order ...... 22 5.4 Types of Meetings ...... 22 5.5 Sport, Advisory Groups and Committee Meetings ...... 22 5.6 Special Meetings ...... 22 5.7 Expense of Meetings ...... 23 5.8 Meeting Format ...... 23
Article VI: Finances ...... 23 6.1 Annual Dues ...... 23 6.2 Special Assessments ...... 24 6.3 General Fund ...... 24 6.4 Audit...... 25 Page 1 of 41
6.5 Fiscal Year ...... 25
Article VII: Eligibility and Hardship ...... 25 7.1 Eligibility Rules ...... 25 7.2 Hardship ...... 26 7.3 Eligibility Sanction ...... 26 7.4 Student-Athlete Transfer Eligibility ...... 26
Article VIII: Recruiting ...... 27 8.1 Rules Governing Recruiting ...... 27
Article IX: Conducting Conference Events ...... 27 9.1 Schedules ...... 27 9.2 Delay or Termination of Conference Events ...... 28 9.3 Responsibility of Home Game Management ...... 29 9.4 Athletic Trainer and Training Room Services ...... 29 9.5 Pre-Game or Contest Information ...... 29 9.6 Courtesies to Visiting Groups from Member Institutions ...... 29 9.7 Conveying Information to Non-Conference Opponents ...... 29 9.8 Conference Publicity and Statistical Service ...... 29 9.9 Complimentary Tickets ...... 30 9.10 Media Policy ...... 30
Article X: All-Conference Teams, Coach of the Year, and Awards ...... 31 10.1 Conference Awards ...... 31 10.2 All-Conference Teams ...... 31 10.3 All-Conference Scholar-Athlete Teams ...... 32 10.4 Awards ...... 32 10.5 Player of the Week ...... 32 10.6 Athlete of the Year ...... 33 10.7 Champion of Character Award ...... 33 10.8 Coach of Character Award ...... 34 10.9 Sports Information Director of the Year Award ...... 34 10.10 Athletic Trainer of the Year Award ...... 35 10.11 Athletic Director of the Year Award ...... 35 10.12 Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) of the Year Award ...... 36 10.13 Team of Character Award ...... 36 10.14 Director’s Cup/All-Sports Award ...... 37
Article XI: Conduct and Sanctions ...... 37 11.1 Sportsmanship/Conduct ...... 37 11.2 Disposition of Violations ...... 39 11.3 Penalty Imposition and Appeal Procedures ...... 40
Article XII: Sport Guidelines and Manuals ...... 41 12.1 Sport Guidelines and Manuals ...... 41
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Article I: Recognized Sports
1.1 Required Core Sports
1.1.1 Each full member institution is required to compete in the following core sports:
a) No specific sports specified
1.1.2 Conference sports sponsored by the RSC are determined annually by the Administrative Council with approval by the Council of Presidents (COP) for any new sports that meet the six (6) team sponsorship minimum.
1.2 Official Conference Sports
1.2.1 Full conference members must participate in a minimum of six (6) RSC sponsored sports. It is recommended that full conference members participate in a minimum of three (3) RSC sponsors sports for each gender.
1.2.2 All full members must compete in the RSC for sponsored sports which the institution sponsors at the collegiate level. A member may request an exception. Requests are made with the Commissioner and are subject to Administrative Council review and COP approval. Exceptions are subject to reconsideration at the end of each fiscal year.
a) To accommodate current members, already operating with the equivalent of an exception, as of the effective date of the bylaws.
b) Members currently using the equivalent of this exception would need to provide a memo of rationale to the conference office.
1.2.3 Each member institution shall compete against member institutions as scheduled each season in each of the RSC sports in which it is participating.
1.2.4 Member institutions agree that their primary responsibility and loyalty are to the RSC, including priorities in the scheduling of athletic events, participation in conference championships and events, and as representatives of this conference to NAIA sponsored championships and extra events.
1.2.5 Sports currently contested for championships in the RSC are:
a) Men: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Tennis, Indoor Track & Field & Outdoor Track & Field
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b) Women: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Tennis, Indoor Track & Field, Outdoor Track & Field & Volleyball
1.3 Elimination of Sports
1.3.1 Member institutions agree to notify the Conference of local intent to drop a currently sponsored sport in a timely manner (usually 12 months).
1.3.2 Should the elimination of a sport by a member institution affect the conference sports championships criteria, the minimum sports requirements for championships, the minimum number of championships required, or automatic qualification for national championships, it is imperative that formal discussions occur at a regularly scheduled Administrative Council meeting prior to final institutional action. The Commissioner may initiate such discussions.
1.4 Exclusivity. A full member may not participate as a member in any other NAIA conference in a sport recognized and sponsored by the River States Conference.
1.5 Championships.
1.5.1 The RSC Champion will be the team with the best won-loss record in RSC play unless otherwise designated by the Administrative Council as outlined in the Sport Guidelines.
1.5.2 A conference champion will be named in each RSC sponsored sport.
1.5.3 The NAIA representative for postseason play shall be the RSC Champion in sports where automatic berths are awarded by the NAIA unless otherwise designated by the Administrative Council as outlined in the Sport Guidelines.
1.5.4 Playing rules and conditions for all conference championships shall be governed as set forth in the RSC Sports Guidelines and NAIA Rules or regulations.
1.5.5 Only individuals or teams eligible to compete in NAIA championship events may participate in RSC championship events. A waiver may be granted in the sports of Cross Country, Golf, Indoor Track & Field and Outdoor Track & Field.
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Article II: Achieving Membership
2.1 Requirements.
2.1.1 At a minimum, applicants must have the following athletic staff to support their intercollegiate athletic program: a) Athletic Director b) Faculty Athletic Representative c) Sports Information Director d) Certified Athletic Trainer on staff or under contract
2.1.2 The Athletic Director and Sports Information Director, if subject to other athletic or campus responsibilities, must maintain a primary focus for the generally accepted requirements of these positions.
2.2 Procedure.
2.2.1 The Commissioner will maintain a document of information requested as part of the application for membership process. This document will be available on the River States Conference website.
2.2.2 The Chief Executive Officer of eligible institutions may apply for membership by submitting a completed application for membership and a non- refundable application fee of $2,000 to the RSC and sent to the Commissioner.
2.2.3 Applicants who are not already NAIA members must include a copy of their completed application for NAIA Membership.
2.2.4 The Membership Committee will review the application materials and schedule a campus visit to further evaluate the applicant or may recommend that no visit is necessary. The COP-EC will make the final determination. Site visits are scheduled at a mutually agreeable date and time.
2.2.5 If no site visit is required and the applicant is accepted for membership then $1,500 will be applied to the required new member contribution. If no site visit is required and the applicant is not accepted for membership then $1,500 will be refunded.
2.2.6 Following the site visit the Membership Committee will submit a review and recommendation to the Commissioner who will distribute to the COP EC who will determine if the applicant moves forward.
2.2.7 With approval of the COP-EC the applicant member will be invited to make presentations at an Administrative Council and a Council of Presidents meeting. Generally, this will be done at regularly scheduled meetings. The COP-EC
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may at their discretion request a special meeting of either or both groups be scheduled or that they be conducted via video/conference call.
2.2.8 The Council of Presidents will make the final membership decision following the presentations and review of the recommendations by the Membership Committee, Commissioner and Administrative Council.
2.2.9 Upon payment of annual dues, the new member shall have full rights and privileges of conference membership.
Article III: Standing Committees
3.1 Advisory Groups
3.1.1 Athletic Trainers Advisory Group. The Athletic Trainers’ Group shall be composed of the Athletic Trainers of the member institutions, who will elect a chair. The committee shall be responsible for developing policies and procedures appropriate to their field. The chair will present these recommendations to the Conference Administrative Council for review and approval.
3.1.2 Faculty Athletic Representatives (FAR) Group. The FAR Group shall consist of the Faculty Athletic Representative from each institution. The committee will select a chair serving as chair of the Eligibility Committee. The FAR Group shall address academic concerns and the welfare of student-athletes and make recommendations to the Commissioner and Administrative Council.
3.1.3 Sports Information Directors Group. The Sports Information Directors' Group shall be composed of the SIDs of all member institutions. The Conference SID will chair the committee. The committee shall be responsible for developing policy and procedures appropriate to their field. The chair will present these recommendations to the Administrative Council for approval.
3.1.4 Sport Advisory Groups. Each Sport will have an advisory group consisting of the head coaches of that sport and are charged with the responsibility of:
a) Bringing recommendations to the Conference on their respective sports policies and procedures.
b) Assisting their Sport Chair in the updating sport bylaws/operating manuals.
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c) Actively engage in promoting their sport at the conference, regional and national levels.
3.1.5 Registrars Advisory Group. The Registrars Advisory Group shall consist of the Registrar from each institution. The group will select a representative to serve as a member of the Eligibility Committee. This group shall assist in addressing academic concerns and the welfare of student-athletes and make recommendations to the Commissioner and Administrative Council.
3.1.6 Recommendations regarding RSC Constitution and Bylaws as well as sport policies/bylaws may come to the Administrative Council from any Advisory Group.
3.2 Standing Committees
3.1.1 Appeals Committee. The Appeals Committee shall be composed of the three Athletic Directors a Faculty Athletic Representative and a Council of Presidents Representative. No more than one member can serve on both the Conduct and Appeals Committees. The committee shall rule on appeals not involving eligibility issues as submitted to the Commissioner. These appeals may result from rulings on unsportsmanlike conduct, post-season representation or transfer eligibility as well as any appeals for which the RSC has decision authority. If the institutional representative of the accused or appealing institution is on the Appeals Committee, he or she shall refrain from all participation. Rulings of the committee shall be by majority vote and shall be final. In case of a tie, the Commissioner will cast the tie-breaking vote.
3.2.2 Awards & Nominating Committee. The Awards & Nominating Committee is chaired by the Conference SID. The committee will also include the chair of the Champions of Character committee, a representative from each gender of the coaches’ advisory groups and two Athletic Directors. The Committee responsibilities include:
a) Review & advise for the nomination/selection process for all conference awards.
b) Review and make recommendations regarding award proposals submitted by sport groups or other conference committees.
c) Review, advise and implement voting standards/procedures for all conference awards.
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d) Serve as the primary selection committee for conference/national award recipients IF a selection committee is not already designated.
e) Standardize award presentations (scripts, timelines, etc.) at conference championships.
f) Research/develop strategy for a conference Hall of Fame.
g) Identify/nominate conference award winners for NAIA National Awards.
3.2.3 Champions of Character Committee. The Champions of Character Committee is comprised of the Champions of Character campus liaisons. The chair is appointed by the Commissioner. The Champions of Character Committee is responsible for ensuring that all member schools conduct Champions of Character programming and that all coaches complete the NAIA character-driven training programs. The committee also assists in the planning and implementation of a conference-wide Champions of Character program/event. This committee assists the Awards and Nominations Committee with regard to annual individual and team recognition.
3.2.4 Championships Committee. The Championships Committee shall be comprised of at least five (5) members as selected by the Commissioner. This committee provides leadership and direction in all aspects (brackets, formats, scheduling, site selection, host responsibilities, finances, etc.) of conducting conference championships. The Scheduling Committee is a subcommittee of the Championships Committee and provides input in the areas of scheduling and championship calendars
a) Scheduling Subcommittee. This subcommittee, in coordination with the Commissioner and sport chairs, is responsible for creating master schedules for designated conference sports. Schedules should be completed at least two years in advance. This subcommittee also provides recommendations on scheduling criteria/parameters for all conference sports. .
3.2.5 Conduct in Competition Committee. The Conduct in Competition Committee shall consist of five members from the Administrative Council or Faculty Athletic Advisory Group and is appointed by the Commissioner. This committee is charged with reviewing all cases involving rules and policy violations within the conference. Additional responsibilities include advising the commissioner and the Administrative Council on issues related to event/game management protocols and all instances of unsportsmanlike conduct. The Conduct in Competition Committee shall make a Page 8 of 41
recommendation to the Commissioner related to all proposed conduct sanctions. If the institutional representative of an accused institution is on the Conduct Committee, he or she shall refrain from all participation related to that instance. If fewer than three members remain without conflict the Commissioner shall appoint additional representatives for review of that instance.
3.2.6 Conference Ratings Oversight Committee. This committee consists of three members of the Administrative Council and oversees all aspects of sport ratings at the conference and national levels (as it relates to conference ratings). The committee reviews ratings proposals from individual sport groups and serves as a mediator in the conference ratings process. For more detailed information on conference/national ratings, see the ratings guidelines listed in each individual sport’s bylaws/operating manual.
3.2.7 Constitution and Bylaws Committee. The Constitution and Bylaws Committee shall consist of at least three members and may include athletic administrators or other knowledgeable individuals from member schools. The Committee shall study the rules, regulations or suggested revisions of the River States Conference Constitution, Bylaws, or Sports Guidelines as requested by the Commissioner, Administrative Council or Council of Presidents. This committee shall recommend changes, endorse submitted changes or oppose any changes they feel are in contrary to the best interest of the conference.
3.2.8 Eligibility Committee. The Eligibility Committee consists of the Conference Eligibility Chair, Conference Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR), Conference Registrar and two members from the Faculty Athletic Representatives or Registrar Advisory Groups. Responsibilities of the Eligibility Committee include:
a) Receive and review the eligibility certifications submitted by the faculty athletic representative of each member institution; (Eligibility Chair responsibility)
b) Receive and review all reports of institutional violations and all requests for exceptions from the member institutions and share these reports with the Conference Commissioner and Eligibility Committee and forward Eligibility Committee recommendation to the national office; (Conference FAR responsibility)
c) Attend the NAIA National Convention regularly, but not less than once every three years (annual attendance by at least one member of committee is suggested).
d) Facilitate rules education activities for the Conference with specific attention to the orientation of newly appointed faculty athletic representatives, athletics directors, and coaches. Page 9 of 41
3.2.9 Financial Advisory Committee. The Financial Advisory Committee works with the Commissioner in developing the annual budget, financial related policy and reviews the conference financial documents following each Administrative Council meeting and submission of the annual taxes. Reporting to the Administrative Council Chair and the Council of Presidents Chair directly on any irregularities or findings when adequate explanation cannot be obtained. The Financial Advisory Committee is comprised of at least one member of the Executive Committee of the Administrative Council and two other members as appointed by the Commissioner and approved by the Administrative Council. The Council of Presidents may at their discretion appoint a representative.
3.2.10 Membership Committee. The Conference Membership Committee shall consist of the Chair and Vice Chair of the Conference Administrative Council, Conference Treasurer or a member of the Financial Advisory Committee, a member of the Conference Eligibility Committee, a member of the Council of Presidents and an at-large member from the Administrative Council. The primary responsibilities of the membership committee include:
a) Review applications from prospective membership candidates and make an initial recommendation to the Conference Administrative Council.
b) Serve on campus site visit teams for prospective members.
c) Conduct annual reviews of conference application guidelines/processes.
3.2.11 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. The Student Athlete Advisory Committee shall consist of two student athletes (one female/one male) from each member institution. The chair should be either the conference ASA representative or an at-large NAIA-ASA representative. Members must be at least sophomore class status and eligible for competition. The SAAC serves the following functions:
a) Discuss and provide feedback on Conference policies and rules affecting student-athlete welfare and competition.
b) Assist in educating all Conference student athletes on NAIA and conference rules/policies.
c) Promote student-athlete participation in Champions of Character events. Page 10 of 41
d) Organize and facilitate a conference-wide NAIA Champions of Character-related program/event each year.
3.3 Ad Hoc Committees
3.3.1 The COP, the Administrative Council or Commissioner may establish ad hoc committees as needed to conduct the business of the Conference. 3.3.2 The COP Chair, the Administrative Council Chair or Commissioner shall appoint members of ad hoc committees, name the chair, define the goals of the committee, specify the term of appointment, and establish the reporting procedure for special committees.
3.3.3 An Ad Hoc Committee shall become a Standing Committee if, by a two-thirds vote of the Council of Presidents, that committee is deemed appropriate to the continuing operation of the RSC.
Article IV: Conference Commissioner, Other Employees, Agents and Officers
4.1 Commissioner. The Commissioner shall perform such duties as are prescribed in the Constitution/Bylaws and/or such duties as may be prescribed by the Council of Presidents to which he/she is responsible. The Commissioner's duties shall include (but are not limited to):
4.1.1 Serving as the chief administrative officer of the athletic conference and its member institutions.
4.1.2 Draft agenda, plan, and convene annual meetings of the league’s Administrative Council and Council of Presidents. Following all meetings, update conference/sport governing documents and communicate with all necessary constituent groups.
4.1.3 Present a proposed budget to the Administrative Council and Council of Presidents at the fall meetings. Complete all necessary reports, surveys and requests for information from the NAIA and/or the RSC Council of Presidents.
4.1.4 Attend and represent the conference at the annual NAIA National Convention and at all other required national meetings as set by the NAIA.
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4.1.5 Serve as the principal enforcement officer of the Conference rules, regulations and agreements, and is responsible to initiate investigations of any member or institution when there is sufficient evidence presented of potential NAIA or Conference violations, or if he/she has been officially notified by the NAIA, or by another institution, of alleged violations. Interpret and enforce conference regulations and imposing sanctions as necessary.
4.1.6 Serve as ex-officio, non-voting member of the Administrative Council and Council of Presidents and any other committee the Council of Presidents may direct. Conduct elections as necessary to fill the leadership positions on both boards.
4.1.7 Provide individual members and institutions with advice and guidance. Communicate regularly with the Administrative Council, Council of Presidents, Sports Chairs, Raters, Officials’ Assignors and other constituent groups associated with the River States Conference.
4.1.8 Exercise responsibility for officials for basketball, volleyball, soccer, baseball, and softball. This includes the assignment of officials and supervision of them. If he/she so desires, the Commissioner may designate a portion of this responsibility. This includes overseeing and managing the ref-pay system through Arbiter.
4.1.9 Conduct a continuous educational program looking toward the development of scholarship, sportsmanship, and an understanding of the values of competitive athletics; and exert all reasonable effort to acquaint the public with the ethics and high ideals which motivate the Conference in its conduct of intercollegiate athletics. Annually conduct a conference, student- led Champions of Character event.
4.1.10 Conduct rules and Champions of Character training for the Administrative Council, coaches, officials, and student-athletes.
4.1.11 Maintain a file of precedents and interpretations of conference and national rules and regulations, and keeping members informed regarding changes and interpretations of national rules.
4.1.12 Complete conference scheduling in all sports and assisting athletics directors and coaches in resolving schedules issues or conflicts. The Commissioner is responsible for scheduling all conference related activities or may designate an individual and/or committee to create conference competition schedules.
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4.1.13 Provide a report of his/her activities at each regular conference meeting and annually to the Council of Presidents.
4.1.14 Exercise broad-based powers including interpreting and making decisions on issues not otherwise covered by the RSC Constitution and Bylaws.
4.1.15 In conjunction with sport chairs and AD sport liaisons, review sport bylaws prior to each meeting of the Administrative Council for possible action.
4.1.16 Invite NAIA representatives to all Administrative Council and Council of Presidents meetings.
4.1.17 Represent the conference on NAIA councils, committees and task forces.
4.1.18 Annually supervise the effectiveness of all committees and subcommittees within the conference.
4.1.19 Oversee the continued development of the conference Student- Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC).
4.1.20 Assist the conference SID in the nomination of conference award recipients for corresponding NAIA national awards.
4.1.21 Appoint and supervise, with input from the Administrative Council, conference positions of treasurer, SID/webmaster, eligibility chair, FAR and registrar.
4.1.22 Establish conference game management plans for each conference sport.
4.1.23 Annually evaluate student-athlete awards and order the awards in time for presentation at tournaments and/or award ceremonies.
4.1.24 Promote the general welfare of the Conference at all times, studying the problems of the Conference and offering advice and guidance to the members in the solution of those problems.
4.1.25 Interpret and enforce NAIA and Conference rules and regulations, as well as interpret and rule upon Eligibility Regulations, sending copies of the Commissioner’s interpretations and rulings to the Faculty Athletic Representatives and athletics administrators. In addition, the Commissioner shall recommend changes deemed advisable in the Bylaws and Sports Guidelines.
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4.1.26 Act as the liaison between the Conference and representatives of the media; taking responsibility for the administration of Conference policies involving television, radio, and related programs. Schedule and supervise, in conjunction with the site manager, all Conference championships. Represent the Conference in external affairs, maintaining a liaison with, and assuming a leadership role in, organizations that promote the continued growth and development of men’s and women’s athletics, and serve as the official delegate of the Conference to the NAIA Convention.
4.1.27 Direct all aspects of fundraising for the Conference that benefit the membership.
4.1.28 Enhance conference media coverage locally, regionally, and nationally.
4.1.29 Develop overall branding and marketing strategies for the conference.
4.1.30 Provide for the keeping and distribution of the minutes of all COP, Administrative Council, and committee meetings.
4.1.31 Oversee maintenance and distribution of historical and statistical records to conference members for all conference athletic competition, and provide for the performance of all duties associated with the sports information function of a conference office.
4.1.32 Prepare the regular season conference schedules as directed by the membership and in accordance with prescribed conference guidelines, with the assistance of coaches, administrative, and sport committees as required.
4.1.33 Arrange for and facilitate all mandatory conference meetings, and for other meetings authorized by the COP and the Administrative Council.
4.1.34 Prepare and distribute the reporting forms required by conference rules and regulations.
4.1.35 With the assistance of the Financial Advisory Committee, prepare the annual budget of the conference office and related fiscal data at the direction of the COP.
4.1.36 Present a budget report to the COP and Administrative Council at all scheduled meetings. Page 14 of 41
4.1.37 Select, hire, and supervise the conference office staff.
4.1.38 Annually evaluate staff with input from the Executive Council of the Administrative Council
4.1.39 Establish tournament evaluations/surveys for AD's, coaches, and student-athletes.
4.1.40 Annually conduct a conference Sports Information Directors meeting.
4.1.41 At the direction of the Council of Presidents, actively seek sponsorships and engage in fundraising as appropriate.
4.1.42 Annually review and conduct activities to market and promote the Conference.
4.1.43 Create and monitor conference membership development and growth plans.
4.1.44 Performing such other duties as the Administrative Council and/or the Council of Presidents may direct.
4.2 Acting Commissioner
4.2.1 Should the Commissioner be incapacitated or otherwise unavailable to function as Chief Administrative Officer the Chair of the Administrative Council will serve temporarily in this capacity.
4.2.2 The COP-EC shall call a meeting within four (4) calendar weeks to consider and recommend to the COP the appointment of an acting Commissioner
4.3 Other Employees
4.3.1 Eligibility Chair. The Eligibility Chair shall review and approve, return for correction, or deny all NAIA Official Eligibility Certificates, Transfer Player Eligibility Statements, and Eligibility Certificates for Entering Freshmen, as submitted by Conference members. The Eligibility Chair must have significant experience in eligibility and eligibility rules, including serving as an institutional faculty athletic representative, serving as eligibility chair of another NAIA conference, or serving as a former member of a National Committee. He/she shall make recommendations to the national eligibility staff liaison regarding all eligibility issues brought before them for endorsement. He/she shall receive and Page 15 of 41
review all reports of institutional violations. The Eligibility Chair serves on the Eligibility Committee and attends the NAIA National Convention a minimum of once every three years.
4.3.2 Conference SID/Webmaster. The Conference Sports Information Director/Webmaster serves as an official/agent of the Conference and is compensated for services and expenses as indicated in the Conference budget. Duties shall include, but are not limited to, the following:
a) Maintain a complete and official record of all athletic contests and tournaments completed by each conference program.
b) Keep a complete athletic participation record of all participants in Conference sponsored sports and maintain official rosters of member institutions.
c) Develop statistical reporting procedures, forms and deadlines relative to appropriate procedures prescribed by the conference and the NAIA Office of Sports Information. All deadlines will be established according to NAIA reporting schedules and will be approved by sport chair, liaison and Commissioner.
d) Compile and distribute news releases and statistical reports regarding appropriate Conference activities for use by member institutions and members of the news media. Update the Conference website in a timely manner. Forward statistical reports and Player of the Week nominations to the Conference members and the NAIA National Office contact person in accordance with appropriate deadlines.
e) Facilitate the Players of the Week selection process in each Conference sport.
f) In coordination with the chairperson of each Conference sponsored sport, supervise the selection of recognizing All- Conference athletic and academic awards and distribute in a timely manner at the end of each competition season.
g) Serve as chair of the Conference Awards Committee and maintain a record of all conference-sponsored awards.
h) Serve as chair of the Conference SID Committee and produce/update a conference Sports Information Directors manual.
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4.3.3 Treasurer. The Commissioner will serve as the Authorizing Officer on all bank related accounts and for the purpose of working with financial institutions is designated a title of Financial President. The Commissioner will oversee all financial operations and perform such duties as required to facilitate the River States Conference operation using approved financial policies. This includes, but is not limited to, cash management, accounts receivable, accounts payable, payroll, travel, reimbursements, Budget development, credit/debit card authorizations and tax filings.
The Commissioner will work closely with the Financial Advisory Committee and Executive Committees of the Administrative Council and Council of Presidents with regard to financial operations. Reports related to the financial status of the RSC will be delivered prior to each meeting and at other times as requested by any of the aforementioned groups. The standard reports to present are, Balance Sheet, Profit and Loss Statement, Budget vs. Actuals on a Cash Basis and an Accounts Receivable aging report.
The Commissioner, with COP approval, will engage an accounting firm to assist with monthly payroll, quarterly payroll taxes, annual taxes and other accounting needs as required. In addition, an assistant may be retained at the discretion of the Commissioner, with approval of the COP, to serve as Financial Secretary. In the absence of an assistant a designated Financial Secretary will be appointed by the Commissioner and approved by the COP such that at least two persons retain access to the bank accounts owned by the organization.
4.4 Agents
4.4.1 Conference Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR). The Conference Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) serves on the Eligibility Committee and is responsible for processing appeals and requests for exceptions from member institutions. The Conference FAR facilitates rules education activities for the Conference and attends the NAIA National Convention a minimum of once every three years.
4.4.2 Conference Registrar. The Conference Registrar works closely with the conference eligibility chair in the coordination, evaluation, and certification process of student athletes. The Registrar serves on the Eligibility Committee and communicates with athletics directors, FARs, and other registrars to facilitate and improve services to students. The Registrar assists the Eligibility Chair in developing policies for collecting, recording and maintaining student records relative to FERPA guidelines as they pertain to grading, registration data, transcripts and athletic eligibility. The Registrar participates in conference eligibility education workshops, serves on appropriate conference committees and attends the NAIA National Convention a minimum of once every three years.
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4.4.3 Coordinators of Officials. Individual conference sport Coordinators of Officials are agents of the conference and provide the following services:
a) Attend camps to observe and evaluate officials on the conference roster.
b) Submit a roster of officials, including names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses (when available) to the Commissioner by the deadline proposed by the NAIA. Work with the Commissioner to nominate qualified officials to the NAIA national office for consideration for the national tournaments according to the procedures outlined by the NAIA Director of Officiating Initiatives.
c) Receive schedules from coaches on a date established by each Coordinator so that appropriate assignments can be completed.
d) Assign officials to all regular season and postseason contests.
e) Hold a preseason meeting with all officials (with coaches invited) to discuss rules, mechanics, regulations, guidelines, dress code, NAIA Conduct in Competition, as well as new rules and points of emphasis.
f) Communicate to conference coaches and officials on updates, mechanical changes or rule interpretations as needed during the season.
g) Develop and distribute a coaches’ evaluation form for coaches to complete following each contest. Collect the evaluations following each game and report any problems to the Commissioner within 24 hours.
h) Review game films submitted by conference coaches and contact official(s) for follow-up critique or evaluation.
i) Work with conference institutions to upgrade game management procedures. This includes scorer’s table, security, parking, dressing room, hospitality facilities, and fan behavior.
j) Evaluate contests (in person or via film) at each conference institution annually.
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Article V: Conduct of Meetings
5.1 Official Meetings of the Administrative Council
5.1.1 Dates. The Conference Administrative Council will conduct three formal (two-day) meetings during the academic year. The Conference will also conduct an informal meeting during the NAIA National Convention to review proposed legislation.
a) The fall meeting will be scheduled annually on the second Monday/Tuesday of September.
b) The winter meeting will be scheduled annually on the first Monday/Tuesday of December.
c) The spring meeting will be scheduled annually on the third or fourth Monday/Tuesday of May (depending on when Memorial Day falls on the calendar).
d) Movement of the meeting from the pre-scheduled dates requires a ninety (90) calendar day notice or unanimous consent.
5.1.2 Location. Administrative Council meetings will be conducted at a central location to the conference at a property arranged by the Commissioner in working with the Administrative Council Chair.
5.1.3 Agenda. Request for agenda items will be made by the Chair or Commissioner at least 30 days prior to a regularly scheduled meeting. Any director, advisory group or committee may present an agenda item or recommend changes to Constitution, Bylaws, Sport Guidelines or policy.
5.1.4 Minutes. Minutes of the meetings will be recorded by the Vice Chair of the Administrative Council and be distributed by the Commissioner following each meeting.
5.1.4 Order of Business. The order of business/agenda shall be as follows:
1. Call to order 2. Roll call of institutions 3. Approval of the agenda 4. Approval of the minutes of preceding meeting(s) 5. Report of the Administrative Council Chair 6. National Reports, COP, ADA, NAC, NAIA, CCA Page 19 of 41
7. Financial Reports 8. Report of the Commissioner 9. Report of Advisory Groups, Standing Committees or Ad Hoc Committees 10. Old business 11. New business 12. Rules education 13. Appointment of special committees 14. Election of officers (spring) and approval of budget (fall) 15. Member Updates 16. Date announced for next meeting(s) 17. Adjournment
5.1.5 Representatives. Any member institution may send as many persons as it desires to Conference Administrative Council meetings, but each institution shall have only one vote; which shall be cast by the Athletic Director who represents the institution on the Administrative Council. The institutional representative may designate a proxy; provided the representative notifies the Commissioner at least one week prior to the meeting. If space is limited only voting delegates may be allowed to sit at the main table. It is advisable that all persons wishing to attend the meeting inform the Commissioner in advance.
5.1.6 Quorum. A majority of conference members represented shall constitute a quorum. If no representative is designated by an institution, that institution forfeits its voting privileges at that meeting.
5.2 Official Meetings of the Council of Presidents
5.2.1 Dates. The Council of Presidents will conduct two formal (one-day) meetings during the academic year. Presidents will also be invited to attend the conference meeting at the NAIA National Convention.
a) The fall meeting of the Council of Presidents will be scheduled annually on the second Tuesday in October.
b) The spring meeting will be scheduled annually on the first Tuesday in June by conference call or video.
c) Movement of the meeting from the pre-scheduled dates requires a ninety (90) calendar day notice or unanimous consent.
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5.2.2 Location. Council of Presidents meetings will be conducted at a location central to the conference at a property arranged by the Commissioner in working with the COP Chair.
5.2.3 Agenda. Request for agenda items shall be made by the Chair or Commissioner at least 30 days prior to a regularly scheduled meeting. Any Chancellor or President along with the Commissioner and Administrative Council Chair may present an agenda item or recommend changes to Constitution, Bylaws, Sport Guidelines or policy.
5.2.4 Minutes. Minutes of the meetings shall be recorded by the Commissioner and be distributed by the Commissioner after review of the COP Chair following each meeting.
5.2.4 Order of Business. The order of business/agenda shall be as follows:
1. Call to order 2. Roll call of institutions 3. Approval of the agenda 4. Approval of the minutes of preceding meeting(s) 5. Report of the Council Chair 6. National Reports, COP, ADA, NAC, NAIA, CCA 7. Financial Reports 8. Report of the Administrative Council Chair 9. Report of the Athletic Director Association Representative 10. Report of the Commissioner 11. Old business 12. New business 13. Election of officers (spring) and approval of budget (fall) 14. Member Updates 15. Date announced for next meeting(s) 16. Adjournment 17. Executive Meeting – Chancellors and Presidents only
5.2.5 Representatives. Each member’s Chief Executive Officer is a voting representative at Council of President’s meetings. Delegates as official representatives may attend the meetings for informational purpose, but cannot cast a vote and do not count for determination of a quorum. The Commissioner, Administrative Council Chair, Athletic Director Association Representative are also represented at the COP meetings in an advisory capacity.
5.2.6 Quorum. A majority of conference members represented shall constitute a quorum. If a CEO for an institution does not attend, that institution forfeits its voting privileges at that meeting.
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5.3 Rules of Order. The rules contained in Robert's Rules of Order shall govern the Conference in all cases to which they are applicable, and in which they are not inconsistent with the Constitution and Bylaws of the Conference. Exception: Abstention votes cast as neutral vote and not considered a NO vote.
5.4 Types of Meetings. Meetings may be held in person, on a conference call, video conference or via any other electronic medium. Voting may be verbal, by roll call, or by any other electronic medium.
5.5 Sport, Advisory Groups and Committee Meetings
5.5.1 Each of the sport advisory groups shall meet at twice annually either in person or via conference/video call as determined by the commissioner.
5.5.2 Each committee shall meet at least once annually or as often as needed to conduct the business of the conference in person or via conference/video call as determined by the commissioner.
5.5.3 The meetings as specified in are considered mandatory. All participating schools must be represented by a person that is empowered to participate and make decisions of behalf of their institution.
5.5.4 Additional meetings may be conducted by these groups as necessary. All coaches or members of a specific group and that group’s Athletic Director Liaison must be given at least two weeks’ notice of the location and time of any additional meetings.
5.5.5 The chair of each of the committees and Advisory groups shall be elected by those groups and serve for two years.
5.5.6 The AD liaison or the Commissioner must participate in the meeting for any official action to be taken.
5.6 Special Meetings
5.6.1 A special meeting may be called/held at the discretion of the Chair of the Administrative Council, Chair of the Council of Presidents or the Commissioner.
5.6.2 Written notice stating the place, day, and hour of the called meeting and the purpose or purposes for which the meeting is called shall be given. Notice must be delivered not less than 14 days before the meeting date, either
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personally, by mail or email; by and at the direction of the Commissioner or the persons calling the meeting.
5.6.3 Action to be taken at a special meeting is limited to the purpose or purposes for which the special meeting is called.
5.7 Expense of Meetings
5.7.1 The expenses of the Commissioner, the Conference Sports Information Director/Webmaster or the Eligibility Chair to attend designated official RSC meetings shall be paid by the RSC, if attendance is requested or required.
5.7.2 Lodging expenses for Administrative Council meetings shall be budgeted and paid by the RSC. Each member is limited to one (1) room night per meeting.
5.7.3 Meal expenses for Council of Presidents or Administrative Council meetings are at the discretion of the Commissioner and appropriate Chair based on the length of meeting, agenda and travel considerations.
5.7.4 All other expenses incurred for attendance at official meetings by institutional representatives and coaches shall be paid by the institution. At the discretion of the Commissioner, travel reimbursements may be issued for special circumstances.
5.8 Meeting Format. The format for conducting RSC business is intended to accommodate a wide variety of organizational structures as might be deemed appropriate on the campuses of various institutions. In no case should the organization and method of conducting RSC business be deemed as dictating organizational structure to member institutions.
Article VI: Finances
6.1 Annual Dues
6.1.1 The annual institutional dues, assignor fees, entry fees and sport fees for the academic year are set by the Commissioner with guidance from the Financial Advisory Committee and reviewed by the Administrative Council and require the approval of the Council of Presidents. Payment is due August 1 and delinquent on September 15.
6.1.2 Associate membership (single sport) dues will be $2,500 per sport, which includes both genders, when applicable. Fees are not to exceed the total Page 23 of 41
paid by a full member for the dues and the sport fees associated with the sponsored sports.
6.1.3 Institutions delinquent in payment of dues, shall forfeit voting privileges until the delinquency is resolved. The Commissioner shall send a reminder to the delinquent institution.
a) If Dues and Sport Fees are not paid by the due date set forth in 6.1.1 a $5,000 late payment charge will be assessed.
b) If Dues and Sport Fees are not paid by October 1st the delinquent member will forfeit access to all services including officials for contests, conference awards and postseason tournaments will be suspended until paid.
6.1.4 If additional expenses are incurred during any year by the RSC over and above the amount received or carried in reserve, they are borne by the member institutions equally.
6.1.5 In case a surplus is carried over any year it shall be placed in the RSC contingency fund as outlined in Article IV, Section 4.4 of the RSC Constitution. This surplus shall be factored into the recommendation by the Commissioner to the Council of Presidents in setting a contingency fund level and making a budget for the succeeding year.
6.2 Special Assessments.
6.2.1 Special assessments may be proposed by the Administrative Council to cover the expense of special projects or for any other purpose and must be approved by a majority of the COP.
6.2.2 Special assessments may be levied by the COP to cover additional expenses or for any other purpose and must be approved by a majority of the COP.
6.3 General Fund
6.3.1 All income from dues, sport fees, entry fees or from other RSC activities shall be placed in a general fund and be available to pay the expense of RSC operations.
6.3.2 The Commissioner is authorized to pay the expenses of the operation of the RSC as authorized by budget appropriations from the general fund. Written approval by the COP Chair is required for expenditures in the form
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of personal reimbursement to the Commissioner. The COP Chair will review all Commissioner travel and the payroll journal on a monthly basis.
6.3.3 The Commissioner will make available to the Financial Advisory Committee and others as approved by the COP on a monthly basis:
a) Bank Statements b) Reconciliation Reports c) Balance Sheet d) Profit and Loss e) Budget vs. Actuals- Cash basis f) Budget vs. Actuals g) Accounts Receivable aging report
6.3.4 Any part of the general fund not needed for current operating expenses of the RSC shall be placed in an interest-bearing account with the interest income added to the general fund.
6.4 Audit. The financial records of the RSC shall be reviewed every three years. The contracted accounting firm shall perform the review and make recommendations deemed appropriate. The Council of Presidents must approve the audit.
6.5 Fiscal Year. The fiscal year of the RSC shall be from July 1 to June 30 inclusive.
Article VII: Eligibility and Hardship
7.1 Eligibility Rules
7.1.1 The eligibility rules of the RSC shall apply to every student representing a River States Conference institution in any athletic contest, as defined by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA).
7.1.2 All eligibility rules and standards of conduct of the RSC will be equal to or may be stricter than those of the N.A.I.A.
7.1.3 All member institutions will conduct their intercollegiate athletic programs in compliance with all eligibility rules adopted by their institution, the RSC, and the NAIA.
7.1.4 The RSC will use NAIA eligibility Bylaws unless specifically addressed in this document.
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7.2 Hardship
7.2.1 Request for Exceptional Ruling to Standard Rule. The Eligibility Chair shall receive requests for academic hardships. The Eligibility Committee shall act upon all such cases submitted and recommend action to the National Eligibility Committee.
7.3 Eligibility Sanction.
7.3.1 Upon an investigation by the Eligibility Committee, a student-athlete who may be ineligible will be withheld from further competition until his/her eligibility is resolved.
7.3.2 In addition to NAIA sanctions (NAIA Article VI, Section B), any contests, individual or team, in which an ineligible student-athlete participates, may be forfeited and the individual and team standings will be revised as timely and necessary.
7.3.2 In addition to NAIA sanctions (NAIA Article VI, Section B), a student-athlete may be declared ineligible for the same number of contests in which the student-athlete competed while ineligible under the rules of the RSC and the NAIA. Such penalty shall take effect the first season in which the student-athlete becomes eligible following the ineligible competition.
7.4 Student-Athlete Transfer Eligibility
7.4.1 Student-athletes shall not transfer from a member institution to another without satisfying the transfer policy as defined by the River States Conference. Student-athlete who has graduated from a conference school(s) shall be exempt from the transfer rule. A student-athlete who does transfer shall be bound by the following:
7.4.2 A student-athlete who practices, competes or is identified by NAIA definition at a River States Conference member institution shall not be eligible to compete at another River States Conference institution, in any sport, for 365 calendar days;
7.4.3 The 365 calendar days must include two standard academic terms (fall/spring). The 365 days begin on the first day after the conclusion of the term in which the student-athlete withdrew or completed classes or the student- athlete’s official withdraw date, whichever comes first;
7.4.4 Summer terms, inter-terms and all non-terms will not satisfy the two, standard term rule;
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7.4.5 Under extreme circumstances, a member institution (chief executive officer, athletics director or faculty athletics representative) may appeal the transfer policy requirements on behalf of a student-athlete. All appeals must be submitted to the Commissioner; who will in turn refer the appeal to the conference Appeals Committee.
7.4.6 A student-athlete may receive athletic-related aid at the school in which he/she is transferring during the first academic year of attendance.
7.4.7 A student-athlete may participate in practice sessions at the school in which he/she is transferring during the first academic year of attendance.
7.4.8 In those cases where a student-athlete is attending a school and the sport in which they participate is discontinued by the school, this restriction is waived.
Article VIII: Recruiting
8.1 Rules Governing Recruiting
8.1.1 Member institutions shall abide by all sections and interpretations of NAIA Handbook, “Section C Code of Ethics, Item (9.) governing the recruitment of student-athletes.
Article IX: Conducting Conference Events
9.1 Schedules
9.1.1 The Scheduling Committee is charged with the development of draft schedule in working with the Commissioner and sport chairs.
9.1.2 Fall and Winter sports should submit schedules for the spring Administrative Council Meeting.
9.1.3 Spring sports should submit schedules for the fall Administrative Council meetings
9.1.4 Sport advisory groups shall submit a schedule recommendation or preference to the Commissioner to be presented with the schedule proposals to the Administrative Council.
9.1.5 Schedules are to be finalized at least 18 months prior to the start of a season whenever possible.
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9.1.6 The Administrative Council shall approve all RSC schedules. Once approved changes to any schedule require the consent of both participating school’s Athletic Director and approval of the Commissioner.
9.1.7 Official game contracts for conference contests in all sports are required. Any team canceling or modifying a game contract for a game with another institution without consent shall be reported to the Commissioner for review. Appeals of his/her decision may be made to the Appeals Committee.
9.2 Delay or Termination of Conference Events
9.2.1 The following are recognized as legitimate causes for delay or termination of a Conference contest:
a) Weather or other travel conditions causing delay in timely arrival at the game site.
b) Weather that presents hazardous conditions that may threaten an athlete’s safety.
c) Failure of electrical power or other services necessary for the continuance of a contest.
d) Conduct or condition of any persons is such that the health or safety of persons in attendance is in jeopardy.
e) Transportation problems not in control of the traveling institution.
9.2.2 The host athletic administrator in consultation with the commissioner and/or the chief game official shall determine when a contest is to be delayed, terminated, or resumed.
9.2.3 If a contest cannot be completed on the date scheduled or on a date agreed to by both members, the contest shall be terminated and not count as win, loss, or tie for either team, unless specified otherwise in the sports guidelines.
9.2.4 Members will have fulfilled their obligation on a contract commitment when the visiting school has traveled to the site of the home team or when the visiting team has incurred any travel and/or meal expense as a result of an attempt to meet any contractual obligation.
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9.3 Responsibility of Home Game Management
9.3.1 It is the responsibility of the host institution to provide conditions, staffing and facilities (institutionally owned and operated or otherwise) conducive to the proper administration of the Conference contest and consistent with the highest standards of sportsmanship, as well as, the safety and security of participants, staff and fans. Host event manager should be unencumbered with other major game management duties (i.e. statistician, radio/webcast announcers, athletic trainer) in order to be accessible to visiting teams, game officials etc. and able to respond to situations as needed.
9.4 Athletic Trainer and Training Room Services. Training room facilities and the services of a certified athletic trainer will be provided by the host institution for all RSC sports in accordance with conference guidelines.
9.5 Pre-Game or Contest Information. It is the responsibility of the athletic administrator of the host institution to provide information to the athletic administrator of the visiting team regarding access to the facilities, dressing room accommodations, starting time, and any special arrangements such as pre-game or contest ceremonies, securing of valuable items, or other information important to the planning of the visiting team. This information shall be made available at least one week prior to the event.
9.6 Courtesies to Visiting Groups from Member Institutions. All requests for special consideration for groups from member institutions shall be made by the director of athletics of the visiting team to the director of athletics of the host institution.
9.7 Conveying Information to Non-Conference Opponents. Staff (including volunteers) members of member institutions shall not provide or exchange information in any form with representatives of non-Conference opponents that may be used for scouting purposes or to the disadvantage of any member institution's athletic teams.
9.8 Conference Publicity and Statistical Service
9.8.1 The RSC shall maintain publicity and statistical bureau and all releases regarding official business of the RSC shall be released at the discretion of the Commissioner.
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9.8.2 It shall be the responsibility of the host institution to file results and statistical reports covering each countable contest with the RSC Sports Information Director (SID) immediately, but not more than two hours, following each contest as stipulated in the Sport Information Guidelines. Results are considered reported
a) when final scores/results are entered into NAIA SIDHELP
OR
b) when statistics are appropriately single synced in Dakstats, posted in Golf Stats or Direct Athletics as appropriate to the sport
AND
c) when the Sports Info list serve ([email protected]) is emailed the results including the xml file, htm box score with play by play, and pbx files as appropriate to the sport
9.8.3. Specific statistical and publicity responsibilities of member institutions shall be stated in the Sports Information Guidelines for each sport.
9.9 Complimentary Tickets
9.9.1 The RSC does not monitor or govern complementary tickets offered by members to regular season contests.
9.9.2 The RSC reserves the right to control complementary tickets offered for all postseason contests.
9.9.3 All RSC members agree to honor the passes for admission issued by NAIA membership card to any RSC regular season or postseason contest. NAIA membership cards are issued to Athletic staff and University Administrators and RSC members may request the name and position held by card holders.
9.10 Media Policy
9.10.1 Each member institution shall provide access to a courtesy line or internet for visiting institutions when requested provided that service is available at the venue for the host institution.
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Article X: All-Conference Teams, Coach of the Year, and Awards
10.1 Conference Awards. The RSC sponsors comparable awards that are presented at the national level by the NAIA through supervision by the Awards Committee. A complete list of awards by sport is found in each individual sport guidelines. The Awards Committee is responsible for reviewing all awards- related legislation prior to submitting to the Administrative Council for approval.
10.1.1 Coaches may not vote for their own school’s nominees on any conference awards ballot. Coaches may be allowed to vote for their own players when ranking those already selected.
10.2 All-Conference Teams
10.2.1 The balloting will be conducted by the RSC Office as designated by the Commissioner for all official conference sports. All ballots are open for review by the coaches and Athletic Directors sponsoring the sport.
10.2.2 Nominations for All-Conference will at minimum include all information required for submitting the team to the NAIA.
10.2.3 Each All-Conference First Team selection will receive a plaque.
10.2.4 Each All-Conference Second Team selection will receive a certificate.
10.2.5 The size of the All-Conference First Team shall be the same size as presented at the national level by the NAIA. The size of the All-Conference Second Team shall be the same size as the First Team.
10.2.6 In the event of a tie in the All-Conference ballot for the final spot on the first team both student-athletes will be awarded First Team honors.
a) The Commissioner will decide which student-athlete will be reported to the NAIA.
b) The second Team will be reduced to maintain the total number of awards.
10.2.7 In the event of a tie in the All-Conference ballot for the final spot on the second team both student-athletes will be awarded Second Team honors.
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10.3 All-Conference Scholar-Athlete Teams.
10.3.1 All student-athletes who meet the listed requirements will be eligible for All-Conference Scholar-Athlete Honors.
a) Post a 3.25 cumulative grade point average on a 4.0 scale as appeared on the eligibility certificate for their current term of attendance/participation.
b) Have completed not less than two semesters of attendance at their conference institution immediately prior to the most recent term of attendance/participation and have sophomore standing.
c) Competed in a conference sponsored sport during the season of submission. Which means they record a season of eligibility as defined by the NAIA.
10.3.2 Institutions are responsible for verifying all qualifying academic criteria and sport participation required for award eligibility and in submitting nominations to the conference office.
10.3.3 All-Conference Scholar-Athlete teams are announced following the conclusion of each sport’s season.
10.4 Awards
10.4.1 Each Conference Champion will receive a plaque.
10.4.2 Each Conference Tournament Champion shall receive a trophy.
10.4.3 Each Conference Tournament Runner-up will receive a plaque.
10.4.4 In sports were divisions are used Each Division Champion will receive a plaque.
10.4.5 In case of ties, duplicate trophies or plaques shall be awarded.
10.4.6 Other sport specific awards are outlined in the sport guidelines.
10.5 Player of the Week
10.5.1 The nomination and voting process will be outlined in the Sports Information Director’s Manual. Page 32 of 41
10.5.2 While facilitated by the SID at RSC member institutions the nominee is considered a member nominee and the policy and procedure for who is nominated is up to the member institution to decide.
10.5.3 Nominations are limited to one nominee for each award in a given week as per NAIA rule.
10.5.4 Voting is required by each school for all awards including those for sports not sponsored. Failure to vote will disqualify that school’s nominations that week.
10.5.5 Ties in Player of the Week voting are broken by the Commissioner.
10.5.6 RSC Player of the Week winners will advance to represent the RSC as NAIA national of the week candidates.
10.5.7 A “week” consists of all events played from Monday through Sunday of any given week.
10.5.8 The RSC Player of the Week schedule will be outlined in the Sports Information Directors Manual annually.
10.6 Athlete of the Year
10.6.1 The RSC shall select a Male and Female Athlete of the Year to be voted on by the athletic directors. Athletic directors may not vote for student- athletes from their own institution.
10.6.2 All student-athletes earning Player of the Year honors in their respective sport will automatically be nominated for this ward.
10.6.3 Each school may nominate one player in each gender.
10.6.4 Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
10.7 Bill Melton Champion of Character Award
10.7.1 The RSC shall select a Male and Female Champion of Character award winner.
10.7.2 The Bill Melton Champions of Character Award for student- athletes is one of the most prestigious awards in the RSC and named after former Commissioner Bill Melton. The award honors outstanding student- Page 33 of 41
athletes for their academics, athletics, leadership and dedication to living the core values of Champions of Character.
10.7.3 Nominations will include the official NAIA form for the Leroy Walker Award and all supporting information and must be submitted to the Commissioner by the fourth Friday in May.
10.7.4 The Champions of Character Committee shall select a male and female recipient from those nominated. Each will receive an award from the RSC.
10.7.5 The Awards Committee shall select one of the recipients to be nominated for the NAIA Leroy Walker Award.
10.8 Coach of Character Award
10.8.1 The RSC Coach of Character Award is one of the most prestigious honors of the conference. The annual award is given to a head coach of an RSC member institution who has been outstanding in embracing the five core values of the NAIA Champions of Character initiative by deliberately teaching character to his/her student-athletes through sports.
10.8.2 The RSC shall select a Coach of Character award winner to be voted on by the athletic directors. Athletic directors may not vote for a coach from their own institution.
10.8.3 Each school may nominate one coach using the official NAIA form and providing all of the required material. Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
10.8.4 Recipient will be nominated for the NAIA National Coach of Character Award.
10.9 Sports Information Director of the Year Award
10.9.1 The RSC shall select a Sports Information Director of the Year award winner to be voted on by the Sports Information Directors and Athletic Directors. SID’s and Athletic Directors may not vote for a nominee from their own institution.
10.9.2 SID’s may be nominated by other RSC SID’s. SID’s may also be nominated by a Coach, FAR, President or AD from any RSC institution. Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
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10.9.3 Nominations should include one or more paragraphs outlining accomplishments and why they should be considered for this honor.
10.9.4 Provided the recipient meets the requirements they may be nominated for a national award. The SID or AD of the recipient’s institution should notify the Commissioner and provide all required material by June 30th if they wish to pursue this nomination.
10.10 Athletic Trainer of the Year Award
10.10.1 The RSC shall select an Athletic Trainer of the Year award winner to be voted on by a combined vote of a members Athletic Trainers and their Athletic Director. Athletic Trainers and Athletic Directors may not vote for a nominee from their own institution.
10.10.2 Athletic Trainers may be nominated by other RSC Athletic Trainers. Athletic Trainers may also be nominated by a Coach, SID, FAR, President or AD from any RSC institution. Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
10.10.3 Nominations are to be submitted using the form provided in the athletic trainer guidelines.
10.10.4 Provided the recipient meets the requirements they may be nominated for a national award. The AT or AD of the recipient’s institution should notify the Commissioner and provide all required material by June 30th if they wish to pursue this nomination.
10.11 Athletic Director of the Year Award
10.11.1 The RSC shall select an Athletic Director of the Year award winner to be voted on by the Athletic Directors. Athletic Directors may not vote for themselves.
10.11.2 AD’s may be nominated by a Coach, SID, AT, FAR, President, Vice President or AD from any RSC institution. Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
10.11.3 Nominations should include one or more paragraphs outlining accomplishments and why they should be considered for this honor.
10.11.4 Provided the recipient meets the requirements they may be nominated for a national award. The SID or AD of the recipient’s institution
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should notify the Commissioner and provide all required material by June 30th if they wish to pursue this nomination.
10.12 Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) of the Year Award
10.12.1 The RSC shall select a Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR) of the Year award winner to be voted on by the Athletic Directors. Athletic Directors may not vote for the FAR from their school.
10.12.2 FAR’s may be nominated by a Coach, SID, AT, FAR, President or AD from any RSC institution. Nominations will be due to the conference office by May 31st.
10.12.3 Nominations should include one or more paragraphs outlining accomplishments and why they should be considered for this honor.
10.12.4 Provided the recipient meets the requirements they may be nominated for a national award. The SID or AD of the recipient’s institution should notify the Commissioner and provide all required material by June 30th if they wish to pursue this nomination.
10.13 Team of Character Award
10.13.1 This award honors one men's and one women's team for their exemplary character and sportsmanship on the field, on campus and in the community.
10.13.2 This selected team demonstrates the core values of Integrity, Respect, Responsibility, Sportsmanship and Servant Leadership.
10.13.3 Each member can nominate one men's and one women's team which will be submitted by the conference office. One men's and one women's team will be selected to receive this award.
10.13.4 Nominators shall provide examples of how the nominated team exemplifies the Five Core Values and attach additional documents, videos or photos that supports the nomination.
10.13.5 Nominations much be submitted by the fourth Friday in May.
10.13.6 This award is selected by the Athletic Directors for each gender. Athletic Directors may not vote for their own team.
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10.14 Commissioner’s Cup/All-Sports Award
10.14.1 The RSC shall maintain an All-Sports Award.
10.14.2 Points are applied to each team based on the final conference regular season finish. Ten points is awarded to the individual champion for each sport and nine points for the runner up and so on.
10.14.3 Each school will utilize the top performances up to the least number of sports sponsored by a single member.
10.14.4 Any ties within sports are broken using the tiebreakers as provided for each sport for determining the final standings/seeding. If no tiebreakers are provided then equal points will be awarded.
a) When equal points are awarded for ties the next ranked spot will be skipped
b) As an example, if two teams are tied for third place then both tied teams will receive eight points, the fourth-place position is then skipped when continuing through the standings.
10.14.5 The only tie that will be broken in the final cup standings is for the top team. a) Total Number of Championships, followed by total number of second place finishes, third places etc. until the tie is broken.
b) If the tie remains unbroken tournament championships will be used in the same manner as above.
10.14.6 The RSC will not publish the full standings only the top teams.
Article XI: Conduct and Sanctions
11.1: Sportsmanship/Conduct
11.1.1 Guiding Principles. The members of the RSC agree to promote and control student athletics in order to maintain them at a high standard of personal honor, scholarship, eligibility, fair play and sportsmanship. The RSC shall take such procedures as it deems necessary to prevent violations of the principles of amateur sports, fair play, and good sportsmanship. The conference and its member institutions will also abide by the NAIA guiding principles related to all policies, game management protocols and NAIA Champions of Character standards.
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11.1.2 The rules and standards of conduct adopted by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics shall apply when a question of interpretation is posed that is not covered in the RSC constitution and bylaws.
11.1.3 The conference requires the reading of the following statement (or a similar statement from the NAIA Champions of Character/Game Management guidelines) prior to all conference contests:
a) The River States Conference encourages positive sportsmanship by student-athletes, coaches, spectators and officials at all of our contests. Profanity, racial or ethnic comments, or other intimidating actions directed at officials, student-athletes, coaches, or team representatives will not be tolerated and are grounds for removal from this contest. On behalf of the River States Conference and the NAIA, we thank you for your attendance and compliance with our conference and national sportsmanship guidelines.
11.1.4 Unsportsmanlike Conduct. Removal from a game or match of any player, coach or staff member shall be reported to the NAIA via the online form within the deadline provided. The Commissioner will then inform the Conduct in Competition Committee. Each incident shall be acted upon in accordance with RSC or NAIA rules and regulations regarding suspensions/ejections.
a) Acts of unsportsmanlike conduct shall include, but not be limited to, any person who strikes or physically abuses an official, opposing coach, player, or spectator. This person may be ejected from the contest and may be suspended for additional contests, as the Commissioner deems appropriate.
b) If a student-athlete, coach or other bench personnel in any sport is ejected from a contest (conference or non-conference, regular season or postseason, exhibition or scrimmage) he/she must serve a suspension as listed in Article VI, Section C, Item 6 of the NAIA Bylaws.
11.1.5 Coaches and/or school officials shall in no way incite, demonstrate, or otherwise attempt by word or action to register disapproval toward officials. Game officials are required to report any ejections, by the NAIA online form, and/or problems to their assignor; who will then inform the Commissioner. Failure to report any incidents may lead to the removal of an official from the conference roster.
11.1.6 Unless allowed by the governing sport rules, no artificial noise makers (bells, drums, beating on cans, etc.) are to be used at a contest involving a member institution. Any band music will be restricted to before the start of the
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contest, at half time and during dead ball periods. Any violation shall be subject to a technical foul and reported to the Commissioner.
11.1.7 The host management is responsible for crowd behavior. It shall be the responsibility of the host institution to take steps to avoid potential problems (i.e. seating cheering sections in separate and divided areas; providing security both inside and adjacent to areas of access or parking; providing private and protected dressing areas for officials and players).
11.1.8 The RSC reserves the right to take such action as deemed necessary to protect and improve the program of intercollegiate athletics for the benefit of its members. All irregularities coming to the attention of the RSC Commissioner shall be acted upon by the Commissioner with advice from the Conduct in Competition Committee. Penalties as severe as permanent suspension or disbarment in the sport involved may be assessed to both individuals and institutions with COP approval.
11.1.9 The following actions shall be subject to a public reprimand for the first offense and a suspension for one contest for an additional offense (a flagrant offense is subject to suspension on the first offense):
a) Intentionally inciting participants or spectators to violent or abusive action.
b) Using obscene gestures or profane or unduly provocative language or action toward officials, opponents, or spectators.
c) Publicly criticizing any game official, Conference personnel, another institution or its personnel.
d) Acts of unsportsmanlike conduct not specifically described herein.
11.2 Disposition of Violations
11.2.1 All violations shall be reported in writing to the Commissioner who shall notify the Conduct in Competition Committee. Any institution involved in a questionable incident or irregularity shall be expected to investigate the incident and take positive and direct action to correct the situation.
11.2.2 Whenever anyone identified with the conference (student-athlete, coach, administrative staff member, official, etc.) is involved in any type of misconduct, the Director of Athletics of that institution or Assigner of officials shall use every means possible to adjudicate the case. Based upon the severity of the violation, the case shall then be submitted to the Commissioner who will forward all details to the Conduct in Competition Committee for review and recommended action. The Commissioner and the Committee may seek the advice and counsel Page 39 of 41
of the NAIA national office. Any penalties that exceed the normal conference or NAIA sanctions must be approved by the COP Executive Committee.
11.2.3 The individual or the institution in question will have no voice in rendering a decision as to guilt or vindication and will be expected to testify only to the extent of answering questions put forth by the Commissioner, Conduct in Competition Committee and/or the Council of Presidents Executive Committee.
11.2.4 Any person who engages in negative recruiting by making statements to a prospective student-athlete, his/her parents, high school coach, or other persons interested in the prospective athlete which are derogatory of another member institution, its personnel, or its athletic program shall be subject to a public reprimand for the first offense, and to the suspension of the privilege of recruiting for one season for an additional offense.
11.3 Penalty Imposition and Appeal Procedures
11.3.1 Whenever the Commissioner concludes that there has been a violation of RSC rules or regulations, he/she shall impose the penalty prescribed in the Constitution, Bylaws or, where he/she is given discretion as to penalty, he/she shall impose a penalty that he/she deems appropriate or that has been recommended by the Conduct in Competition Committee.
11.3.2 Whenever the Commissioner decides to impose a penalty, he/she shall first give notice of the decision to the individual and the institution involved, and then to the Administrative Council.
11.3.3 In the event that the individual or the institution feels that the penalty is inappropriate, there shall be the right to appeal the matter to the RSC Appeals Committee. This may be because the violation did not occur; additional evidence not provided in the original decision is now available; the decision reached proved to be capricious or arbitrary; there is evidence that the decision of the committee was biased or discriminatory or that the penalty is excessive.
a) The appeal must be filed in writing by the member institution Athletic Director or CEO to the Commissioner's office within five (5) calendar days of transmission of notice of the penalty imposed.
b) If the Athletic Director is directly involved in the disciplinary action the appeal must be filed by the person they report to or the CEO
11.3.4 The Appeals Committee shall conduct a hearing, reviewing the information from the Commissioner, Conduct in Competition Committee or the institution. At the Appeals Committee discretion individual or institution may be Page 40 of 41
given the opportunity to be heard directly. The Appeals Committee may reaffirm, set aside, or increase the penalty as is deemed appropriate, giving the individual or institution written notice of its decision and its reasons.
11.3.5 At least three voting members of the Appeals Committee must participate in the hearing. Members who serve on both the Appeals Committee and Conduct in Competition Committee may not cast a vote on the appeal.
11.3.6 The Appeals Committee shall stay the penalty imposed by the Commissioner pending the committee decision. No public announcement of the penalty shall be made until the individual or institution fails to give notice of the desire to appeal within the five-day period or the Appeals Committee notice has been transmitted to the institution filing the appeal.
11.3.7 Whenever a penalty of suspension is imposed at or near the end of a season of competition, the penalty will be carried over into the next season of competition. Should a student-athlete or employee change institutions, penalties imposed are subject to Article VI, Section C, Item 6 of the NAIA bylaws.
11.3.8 Final authority regarding all sanctions is held with the Council of Presidents. Only the member’s institutions CEO may request or appeal to the Council of Presidents for review, discuss, adjust or overturn any sanctions levied. An appeal shall be decided by a two-thirds majority vote of all members of the Council of Presidents excluding the appealing institution.
11.3.9 Definition of terms used in this bylaw.
a) Suspension in the case of a player means that the player cannot participate in the designated number of contests but may practice.
b) In the case of a coach, suspension means that the coach cannot be present in the playing arena for the designated number of contests but may conduct practice sessions.
Article XII: Sport Guidelines and Manuals
12.1 Sport Guidelines and Manuals. The RSC may adopt sport specific bylaws referred to as guidelines that shall be consistent with the RSC Constitution and the RSC Bylaws by a majority vote of the Administrative Council and subject to appeal to the COP. Should there be any inconsistency between RSC Constitution and/or the RSC Bylaws, this RSC Constitution shall first prevail followed by the RSC Bylaws.
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