Message from the Vice President/Director of Athletics 1 Student-Athlete Employment 24 Intercollegiate Athletic Department Mission Statement 1 Camp / Clinic Employment 24 University Core Values 2 Student-Athlete Local Sports Club Employment 24 NCAA Division II Philosophy Statement 3 Rules Education 25 Sunshine State Conference History and Statement of Purpose 4 Compliance Matters Student-Athlete Newsletter 26 Assistance Directory 5 Athletic Department Directory 6 Institutional Financial Aid 27 Athletic Grant-In-Aid 27 University Student Code of Conduct 7 University Charges not Paid by Athletics 28 Grievances or Complaints 8 Student-Athlete Summer School Awards 28 Department Social Media Statement 8 Outside Sources of Aid 28 Scholarship Renewal, Graduation or Cancellation 29 Extra Benefits 29 Academic Life 9 Athletic Scholarship Appeals Policy 30 Class Attendance 9 Missed Class Time Due to Team Travel 9 Notification of Missed Class 9 Sports Medicine Statement 31 The Center for Academic Vision & Excellence (CAVE) 9 Student-Athlete Responsibility 31 Pre-Registration Procedures 10 Athletic Training Room 31 Advising 10 Practice Coverage 32 Textbook / Book Voucher Policy 10 Medical Clearance - Prior to Practice 32 Dropping & Adding Courses 10 Walk-On / Tryout 32 Academic Monitoring 10 Medical Services & Care 33 Academic Probation 10 Treatment 34 Reporting Injuries 34 Role of Physician 35 Concussion Management 35 Academic Eligibility 11 Heat Illness Management 36 Progress Toward Degree 12 Emergencies on the Road 36 Remedial, Tutorial, or Non-Credit Courses 12 Non-Athletic Department Medical Emergencies 36 Incomplete Grades 13 Repeated Courses 13 Missed Term Exception 13 Athletics Communication Statement 37 Saint Leo University Bridge Program 14 Media Student-Athletes 37 Practice & Playing Season 15 Privacy 37 Countable Athletically Related Activity (CARA) 16 Game Day Music 37 Countable vs. Non-Countable 16 Photography 37 Practice Logs 16 Photo Day 38 Statistics - Challenge of Student-Athlete or Parent 38 Social Networking Policy 39 NCAA Rules & Regulations Statement 17 10 Semesters / Season of Eligibility 17 Full-Time Enrollment 17 Strength & Conditioning Mission Statement 40 Declaration of Major 18 Core Values & Objectives 40 Eligibility for Practice & Competition 18 Agents & Amateurism 18 Medical Hardship Waiver 19 Academic Honors Outside Competition 19 Reporting Knowledge of Violations 19 Gambling 20 Tobacco & Tobacco Products 20 Crowdfunding 21 Promotional Activity 22 NCAA Transfer Legislation 43 Recruiting 23 Intra-Conference Transfer Policy 43 Student Host 23 Requesting Permission to Contact 43 Student Host ARMS Workflow 24 Dear student-athletes,

Welcome, or in many cases, welcome back. We have over 175 new student-athletes this year and we are looking forward to a great year academically and athletically. It is our goal to provide you with the best student-athlete experience during your time as a Saint Leo Lion.

To this end, we want to make sure every student-athlete is eligible to compete, remains in good standing during their season and makes academic progress each semester. We have a great compliance staff as well as a great coaching staff to help keep everyone on track and moving toward the goal of a college diploma. You will be a representative of Saint Leo University, our department and your team at all times. With this comes a responsibility to demonstrate our core values of respect and integrity at all times. Being a student- athlete is not a right, but a privilege which we hope each of you will value. The chance to play collegiate sports is a special one and we hope you will make the most of this great opportunity. You must be aware of all the NCAA rules, as well as the academic policies. The NCAA does not allow ignorance of the rules as an excuse when violations occur or requirements are not met.

This handbook is meant to serve as a guide and overview of the Saint Leo Department of Athletics. It does not cover every minute detail but provides guidelines and where you can find assistance. Your continued participation as a student-athlete requires you to comply with the athletic department policies included in this handbook. You will also need to follow all of the University’s academic and student conduct policies. Team accomplishments and individual success are our goals. The entire Department of Athletics staff supports and encourages you in your collegiate experience at Saint Leo. As a team, we are looking to place high in the Learfield Director’s Cup point standings, and in the Sunshine State Conference’s Mayor Cup standings for the best overall program. We hope you will embrace this philosophy and reach your peak performance as a student-athlete during your time at Saint Leo.

Again, welcome or welcome back, to Saint Leo University. We are thrilled we get the opportunity to share in this exciting and important time of your life.

Francis X. Reidy Vice President / Director of Athletics

The Department of Athletics at Saint Leo University seeks to preserve and enhance the mission of the University, its culture and values based environment by providing a challenging, diverse, and continually improving intercollegiate athletic program. The Saint Leo University Department of Athletics provides for the emotional, physical and social well-being and development of the student-athlete.

It nurtures individual growth and progress by offering opportunities for the development of leadership, skills and talents on the field, as well success in the classroom. Intercollegiate athletics enhances the university experience for both the participant and the observer. The Department of Athletics strives to encourage unity within the Saint Leo University community by providing a program of excellence, honor and integrity. Drawing from the mission, Saint Leo University’s history and culture and the Rule of Benedict, the following six Core Values were established in a process similar to the mission review.

Saint Leo University is an educational enterprise. All of us, individually and collectively, work hard to ensure that our students develop the character, learn the skills and assimilate the knowledge essential to become morally responsible leaders. The success of our University depends upon a conscientious commitment to our mission, vision and goals.

Saint Leo University develops hospitable Christian learning communities everywhere we serve. We foster a spirit of belonging, unity and interdependence based on mutual trust and respect to create socially responsible environments that challenge all of us to listen, to learn, to change and to serve.

Animated in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we value all individuals’ unique talents, respect their dignity and strive to foster their commitment to excellence in our work. Our community’s strength depends on the unity and diversity of our people, on the free exchange of ideas and on learning, living and working harmoniously.

Saint Leo University stresses the development of every person’s mind, spirit and body for a balanced life. All members of the Saint Leo University community must demonstrate their commitment to personal development to help strengthen the character of our community.

Our Creator blesses us with an abundance of resources. We foster a spirit of service to employ our resources to university and community development. We must be resourceful. We must optimize and apply all of the resources of our community to fulfill Saint Leo University’s mission and goals.

The commitment of Saint Leo University to excellence demands that its members live its mission and deliver on its promise. The faculty, staff and students pledge to be honest, just and consistent in word and deed. In addition to the purposes and fundamental policy of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, as set forth in Constitution 1, members of Division II believe that a well-conducted intercollegiate athletics program, based on sound educational principles and practices, is a proper part of the educational mission of a university or college and that the educational welfare of the participating student-athlete is of primary concern.

Members of Division II support the following principles in the belief that these objectives assist in defining the division and the possible differences between it and other divisions of the Association. This statement is not binding on member institutions but shall serve as a guide for the preparation of legislation by the division and for planning and implementation of programs by institutions and conferences. A member of Division II:

• Believes in offering a maximum amount of intercollegiate athletics participation to as many of its students as possible, whether or not these students are athletically recruited or financially assisted;

• Believes in striving for broad equitable participation and competitive excellence, encouraging sportsmanship, ethical conduct and developing positive societal attitudes in all of its athletic endeavors;

• Believes in scheduling the majority of its athletics competition with other members of Division II, insofar as regional qualification, geographical location and traditional or conference scheduling patterns permit;

• Recognizes the dual objectives in its athletics program of serving both the campus (participants, student body, faculty-staff) and the general public (community, area, state);

• Believes in offering opportunity for participation in intercollegiate athletics permitting athletically related financial aid for its student-athletes, but on a more modest basis than that permitted in Division I;

• Believes that all members of Division II, including those institutions aspiring to membership in some other division or those unable to subscribe to all of the aspects of the Division II philosophy, should commit themselves that this philosophy and to the regulations and programs of Division II. Founded in 1975, the Sunshine State Conference has risen from a single sport organization to the Division II “Conference of National Champions.” Since its inception, the conference has grown steadily in sports played, membership and national prominence.

Sunshine State Conference schools have won NCAA national championships (97 total) in baseball, softball, men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s basketball, women’s lacrosse, women’s rowing, men’s and women’s tennis and volleyball, and are nationally recognized in men’s and women’s cross country and men’s and women’s swimming. The first NCAA Division II national championship won by an SSC sponsored school was in the spring of 1978. The Florida Southern College baseball team captured the national crown that year. The SSC has led all 24 Division II conferences in the NCAA Academic Success Rate nearly every year it has been measured. Each year, over 1,000 student-athletes are named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll with GPA’s over 3.20 on a 4.00 scale.

Through a wide range of initiatives, the SSC, its member institutions and student-athletes are actively involved in the Florida community. On a conference-wide basis, the SSC SAAC participates in an annual community service project at Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Florida in addition to fundraising efforts conducted annually for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Saint Leo

Barry Eckerd Embry-Riddle Florida Southern Florida Tech

Lynn Nova Southeastern Palm Beach Atlantic Rollins Tampa As a student-athlete at Saint Leo you will become acquainted with many people, but here are a few people you should get to know well.

Your coach is intensely concerned about you and your total welfare. You should feel free to consult with your coach at any time you have a problem of any kind.

Your coach expects you to comply with all instructions. You are expected to report on time. Saint Leo University student-athletes contribute to the welfare of the team in every possible way. If it becomes evident that your conduct is detrimental to the welfare and morale of the team, the coach may dismiss you from the team or impose some other kind of penalty.

Francis X. Reidy controls all intercollegiate programs at the University as mandated by the President of Saint Leo, Dr. Jeffrey Senese. He maintains an open door policy to all student-athletes who wish to talk to him regarding any phase of the intercollegiate athletics program. Get to know him as soon as possible. He also is the sport administrator for men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s soccer, women’s soccer, men’s lacrosse, women’s lacrosse, baseball, softball, volleyball, and beach volleyball

Michael Madagan will assist you with facility questions, scheduling of our facilities for athletic and non- athletic events, as well as work study for facilities and operations. He also has sport oversight for cross country, track, golf programs and swimming. He oversees compliance, recreation, and intramurals as well.

Barbara Wilson heads our Sports Medicine staff and is the SWA (Senior Woman Administrator) She oversees the four athletic trainers, the training room, drug education and testing and implements all of the policies and procedures for student-athletes in the area of sports medicine.

Erin Bean will assist you with branding, sponsorships, game environment and community engagement initiatives as well as the Athletics Excellence Fund and all fundraising events.

Brad Bee heads our Athletic Communications staff. He oversees the three athletic communication staff members, the athletic website, statistical records for all programs, broadcasting and athletic publications and media relations.

Marcal Lazenby will assist you with any question or concern you, may have academically or athletically, as well as assist you with questions on eligibility and financial aid.

Dr. Barbara Caldwell, Dean, School of Education and Social Services, serves as the Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) for the University. Although not a member of the athletic department, the FAR works very closely with the athletics program in monitoring the personal welfare of the student-athlete as well as being thoroughly educated on the rules surrounding student-athletes. Vice President/Director of Athletics Fran Reidy 588-8221… [email protected] Associate Athletic Director Mike Madagan 588-8358… [email protected] Assistant Athletic Director for External Operations Erin Bean 588-8223… [email protected] Director of Athletics Communication Brad Bee 588-8681… [email protected] Manager of Athletics Communication Christy Lear 588-8506… [email protected] Manager of Athletics Communication Sean Forrester 588-7285… [email protected] Manager of Athletics Multimedia Tim Simpson 588-8682... [email protected] Assistant Athletic Director for Business Operations Dawn Boltin 588-8449… [email protected] Athletic Coordinator Kim Bush 588-7878… [email protected] Faculty Athletic Representative Dr. Barbara Caldwell 588-8493… [email protected] Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine / SWA Barbara Wilson 588-8222… [email protected] Director of Sports Medicine… Susan Cross 588-7557… [email protected] Athletic Trainer Steve Jurnak 588-7169… [email protected] Athletic Trainer Kayla Cross 588-7559… [email protected] Strength & Conditioning Coach Dustin Dailey 588-7253… [email protected] Director of Strength & Conditioning Joe Nudo 588-8866… [email protected] Director of Operations - Athletics, Recreation & Events Carrie Fidurko 588-7327… [email protected] Assistant Director of Facilities Zach Kunkel 588-7309… [email protected] Assistant Director of Intramurals & Recreation Connor Kilpatrick 588-8676… [email protected] Director of Compliance Marcal Lazenby 588-7314… [email protected] Assistant Director of Compliance Brent Graves 588-7251… [email protected]

HEAD COACHES Baseball Rick O’Dette 588-8227… [email protected] Men’s Basketball Lance Randall 588-8224… [email protected] Women’s Basketball Anthony Crocitto 588-8447… [email protected] Cheerleading Haylee Monk [email protected] Cross Country/Track – Men & Women Kent Reiber 588-7307… [email protected] Men’s Golf Chris Greenwood 588-8366… [email protected] Women’s Golf Lyndsey Bevill… 588-8684… [email protected] Men’s Lacrosse Brad Jorgensen 588-8366… [email protected] Women’s Lacrosse Caitlin Hansen 588-7302… [email protected] Softball Erin Kinberger 588-8451... [email protected] Men’s Soccer Brett Parker 588-8573… [email protected] Women’s Soccer Peter McGahey 588-8663… [email protected] Swimming – Men & Women Paul Mangen 588-8641… [email protected] Tennis – Men & Women Chad Berryhill 588-7303… [email protected] Volleyball / Beach Volleyball Jason Skoch 588-8448… [email protected] In appreciation of the Benedictine values on which Saint Leo University is founded- community, respect, responsible stewardship, integrity, personal development, and excellence - the University holds students to high standards of moral and ethical conduct.

As members of this community, students are expected to be actively involved in the community and advocate for and display the values on which the University is founded. Further, students are expected to work for the betterment of the community through active participation in the representative student government, community, social, educational, cultural and recreational programs.

The University treats students as responsible adults and therefore expects students to display maturity in their actions. This philosophy is based on the recognition that those who are a part of an educational process treat others with dignity in accord with the values of the University.

The basic approach to maintaining a code of conduct is self-discipline. Individual growth in autonomy, interpersonal relationships, life purpose, physical self-reliance, spiritual maturity, and achieving a balanced lifestyle are important aspects of the collegiate experience. The University expects that all persons express themselves through conduct that supports their own growth and the growth of all community members. Students must take responsibility for acting in ways that demonstrate respect for themselves and others, good stewardship of University resources, and live in a peaceful way. The University recognizes that there will be occasions when students will not live up to these standards and will respond to those situations appropriately and with consistency.

Your membership on a Saint Leo University athletics team is considered a privilege, not a right. You are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship, honesty, integrity and abide by the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct at all times.

As a Saint Leo University student-athlete, you are among the most visible students on campus as well as in the community. This platform brings with it a whole set of privileges and responsibilities. Every student- athlete is expected to abide by the Saint Leo University Code of Student Responsibility, all other University policies, and rules and policies of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the Sunshine State Conference (SSC).

You have a responsibility as an enrolled student-athlete to adhere to team rules as provided by the head coach and the Athletic Department. These rules are important because they have the potential to affect your status as a student-athlete at Saint Leo University.

You should receive a copy of the team rules or expectations for your specific team from the head coach at the beginning of the year. If you have not received a copy of the team rules you should obtain one immediately and keep it with this handbook for future reference. The following rules apply to all students-athletes: ♦ It is expected that you will represent the University and Athletic Department in a positive manner, especially while out in the public view. ♦ You will attend class and take your responsibility as a student seriously. ♦ You will refrain from tobacco products while involved in all athletic activities and while in all athletic facilities ♦ You will not use drugs unless prescribed by a physician for the purpose of treating illness, or a specific medical condition ♦ You will refrain from drinking alcohol, even if you are of legal drinking age, during all team trips and functions. ♦ Even if you or a recruit, are of legal drinking age you will not offer recruits alcoholic beverages or drink alcohol while entertaining a recruit.

If you should have a grievance or complaint concerning your personal rights or team rules you should follow the protocol listed below: 1. Discuss the issue with your team captain, if applicable. 2. Meet with your head coach. 3. Meet with the FAR, if applicable. 4. If the issue continues to not be resolved: ♦Meet with an Associate Athletic Director ♦Meet with the Director of Athletics 5. Items of a special nature will be handled by the Assistant to the President. All issues sent to the President’s office will be sent back to the athletic department to follow the protocol list in items 1-5.

Further, it is the policy of the Department of Athletics that any student-athlete charged with a felony crime will be immediately suspended from athletic participation and will thereafter be eligible for reinstatement upon subsequent determination by the Director of Athletics , in consultation with the Vice President of Student Affairs and University President.

The administration may not always agree, but understands the purpose of internet websites such as Facebook/Twitter/Instagram or any of the variety of social media outlets; however the administration has very clear interpretations with internet websites and pictures. Any picture that displays manners that are unbecoming of a Saint Leo University Student-Athlete (ex. Sexual harassment or hazing) will not be tolerated. Pictures of you with alcohol, display of sexual acts or promoting the University or Athletic Department in a negative light will result in disciplinary action. Therefore do not promote anything that may be viewed as questionable by the administration, media, public or your family. Student-athletes are considered to be students in every way. The student-athletes principal objective should be to acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for effective living.

Class attendance policies are established by the University and attendance requirements are specified in the syllabus of each class apply to student-athletes.

Emails provide coaches and faculty members with information regarding attendance and academic performance. In some special cases progress sheets will be carried to classes. Coaches access mid-term and other grades posted on the University’s DATATEL system.

Student-athletes are excused from classes when representing the University in an official athletic contest. Student-athletes cannot be penalized and will be allowed to make up any and all work missed due to representing the University; however student-athletes are expected to make necessary arrangements beforehand and are responsible for all material covered during their absence.

For a home contest, student-athletes will be excused no more than 2 hours prior to the start of the contest. Student-athletes may not miss class for practices, scrimmages or contests during their offseason with the exception of golf, tennis and cross country.

It is the responsibility of the head coach or their designee of each sport to notify the student-athlete’s professors, via email, at least one week in advance of the missed class. The email will include: date, departure time, return date and the travel roster. If there is any adjustment to a travel roster, the coach will notify the professors before departing. The coach will copy the student-athlete and the Compliance office on the emails. It is still the responsibility of the student-athlete to meet with the professor prior to the absence and turn in all required work and reschedule any missed assignments.

If you should encounter any problems with professors on excused absence please see Faculty Athletic Representative, Dr. Barbara Caldwell, immediately.

The University provides a resource room to all University students. Located in the Student Activity Center, the resource center is open Monday through Friday and on Sunday evenings. The resource room provides qualified tutors, computers, printers and resource materials. Some teams use this area as an option for study hall. If the tutor on duty does not specialize in your upper level courses, a peer tutor will be set up FREE of charge. Students may bring laptops and materials to the resource room to allow staff to provide needed help. 1. Pre-Registration is only for those student-athletes with a zero financial balance on the opening date of registration 2. Student-athletes will set-up a meeting with their respective academic advisor one (1) week prior to the scheduled pre-registration week. The student-athlete will work on their schedule in tandem with their Academic Advisor. 3. The Academic Advisor will enter all schedules on the Monday of scheduled pre-registration week.

A faculty academic advisor is assigned to each student-athlete through the university. If your major should change the university will assign you a new advisor. The Director for Compliance and the Assistant Director of Compliance is another source of assistance, but does not replace your Academic Advisor.

For the student-athletes that receive books as part of their scholarship, the following policy applies:

1. The book coordinator will advise the student-athlete on where and when to pick their textbooks up. 2. Before dropping or adding a course, first contact your coach, and then you must receive approval from the Compliance Office. Once approved please see the book coordinator to return and/or purchase new books 3. Return Policy: ALL books must be returned no later than two days after finals. Note: If a book is not returned, the student-athlete will be billed for the cost of the book(s) 4. If you receive books, all book purchases must go through the Athletic Coordinator. Coaches, boosters, or anyone else is prohibited from providing your books.

If you need to drop a course after the term has begun, you must have it approved by Compliance Office. With approval, a student may drop classes without a grade or academic penalty any time in the semester before a date set in the academic calendar. (See Saint Leo Bulletin/Catalog for exact date and details.) DO NOT JUST STOP GOING TO CLASS! Excessive absence results in a failing grade or ineligibility.

Any student-athlete placed on academic probation by the University or has a Cumulative GPA of a 2.00 or lower at the end of the academic year must meet the following criteria until removed from academic probation or achieves a Cumulative GPA higher than a 2.00: 1. Study-Hall – Mandatory 6 hours a week. 2. Meet with their Head Coach Weekly Student-athletes on institutional academic probation are ineligible to participate with their athletic team. If a student-athlete is on academic warning, participation is allowed. The NCAA requires each student-athlete to meet specific academic requirements each semester and academic year to ensure that each student-athlete will progress towards a degree. Academic eligibility requirements are based on the number of terms of full-time enrollment at Saint Leo University or any previous college/university attendance.

(Fall & Spring Semesters), a student-athlete must earn 9 credit hours. During a student-athlete’s first and second year of college enrollment, any credits may be used to satisfy the 9 credit hour requirement. Following the second year, credits must be applicable to his/her declared degree program in order to satisfy the 9 credit hour requirement. Credits earned during the winter or summer terms may not be used to meet this requirement. If a course requires you to achieve a specific grade (i.e. “C”) in order to graduate and the student-athletes achieves lower than that grade (i.e. “D”) the course may not be used to fulfill the 9 or 18 requirement, even if it will count for elective credit.

(Fall, Winter, & Spring Semesters), a student-athlete must pass 18 credit hours. During a student-athlete’s first and second year of college enrollment, any credits may be used to satisfy the 18 credit hour requirement. Following the second year, credits must be applicable to his/her declared degree program in order to satisfy the 18 credit hour requirements. Credits earned during the summer terms may not be used to meet this requirement. If a course requires you to achieve a specific grade (i.e. “C”) in order to graduate and the student-athletes achieves lower than that grade (i.e. “D”) the course may not be used to fulfill the 9 or 18 requirement, even if it will count for elective credit.

Each student-athlete must meet the following GPA requirements based. All Saint Leo student-athletes are required to maintain a 2.0 CUM GPA each semester. Each year a student-athlete must earn 24 credit hours and have a 2.0 cumulative GPA per semester in order to be eligible the following academic year. Credits hours must be applicable to the declared degree program in order to satisfy the percentage of degree requirement. (Exception permitted only during first four semesters)

The GPA requirement must be maintained each and every semester and will be certified before each semester. If a student-athlete falls below the GPA requirement at any time, he/she is immediately ineligible for competition.

Student-athletes eligibility will be monitored throughout the semester and evaluated at the end of each semester. For a student-athlete deemed “at-risk”, his/her eligibility status will be determined by the Director of Athletics, FAR and Compliance Office. The progress-towards-degree process is handled primarily by the Registrar’s office and the Athletic Department’s Compliance Office to ensure compliance with institutional, conference and NCAA regulations. The entire certification process involves active participation of several constituencies such as the Faculty Athletics Representative, Registrar, Compliance Office, Vice President/VP/Director of Athletics, and Head Coach. To remain in good standing:

 A student-athlete must have earned the minimum 2.0 GPA after each term.

 A student-athlete must declare a major by the beginning of their junior year or 5th semester

 A student-athlete must earn a minimum of 18 degree applicable hours between the fall and spring semesters and at least 24 degree applicable hours over the fall, spring, and summer

 In order to remain eligible for competition, a student must have satisfactory completion of nine credit hours of academic credit the preceding regular academic term in which the student was enrolled full time. Summer school hours cannot be used to fulfill this requirement.

 Some Saint Leo University courses require a “C” grade or better in order to earn credit for the course. (“C-” would be considered non-passing)

 Credit from remedial courses taken at Saint Leo University may count towards progress towards degree only in the student-athlete’s first year of collegiate enrollment.

Remedial, tutorial or noncredit courses may be used by a student-athlete to satisfy the progress-toward- degree requirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4 only if such courses meet all of the following conditions: a) The courses must be considered by the institution to be prerequisites for specific courses acceptable for any degree program; b) The courses must be given the same weight as others in the institution in determining the student- athlete’s status for full-time enrollment; c) Noncredit courses may not exceed the maximum institutional limit for such courses in any baccalaureate degree program (or the student-athlete’s specific baccalaureate degree program once a program has been designated); and d) Credit in such courses shall not exceed 12-semester or 18-quarter hours, and the courses must betaken during the student-athlete’s first academic year of collegiate enrollment. e) Example of courses are ENG003, ENG 121, MAT003, MAT 141. Please check course evaluation, any course that appears in the others section of your evaluation may not be used to certify PTD requirements unless specified above. Please check with the compliance office if you have any questions. A student-athlete who receives an incomplete grade in a course may use the course in question to satisfy the progress-toward-degree requirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4, subject to the following conditions: a) The incomplete grade must have been removed and recorded in accordance with the institution’s regulations applicable to all students; b) Such a course may be counted only once after a grade has been achieved that is acceptable to the institution for determining progress-toward-degree; and c) In the case of no institutional policy, the course with the acceptable grade shall be counted either during the term in which the student initially enrolled in the course or during the term in which the incomplete grade was removed and acceptable credit was awarded.

Credit for courses that are repeated may be used by a student-athlete to satisfy the progress-toward-degree requirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4 only under the following conditions: a) A course repeated due to an unsatisfactory initial grade may be used only once and only after it has been satisfactorily completed; b) Credit for a course that may be taken several times (e.g., a physical education activities course) shall be limited by institutional regulations; and c) Credits earned in courses that may be taken several times may not exceed the maximum institutional limit for credits of that type for any baccalaureate degree program (or for the student-athlete’s specific baccalaureate degree program once a program has been designated).

One time during a student-athlete’s entire period of collegiate enrollment, the provisions of Bylaws 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4 may be adjusted to require completion of 12 hours per term of actual attendance, if the student- athlete misses a complete term or consecutive terms during an academic year, subject to the following conditions: a) The student-athlete engaged in no outside competition in the sport during the academic term or terms in which the student was not in attendance; b) The student-athlete was eligible for enrollment during the student’s absence; and c) At the time of certification, the student-athlete has fulfilled the progress-toward-degree requirements (per Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4) for the terms in which the student was in attendance. It is not permissible to use this one-time exception during the first academic year in residence at the certifying institution in order to maintain eligibility during the second year in residence. Hours earned while enrolled as a part-time student during the “missed term” may not be counted in meeting the progress-toward- degree requirement.

*There are a number of possible exceptions to apply if a student does not meet the progress toward degree requirements contact the Compliance Office to discuss options. The Saint Leo University Bridge Program is an academic program designed to provide qualified students with the opportunity to adjust smoothly to the US academic environment. The Program serves the needs and the interests of international students who meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements for University admission.

If you are ready to start your undergraduate studies but your language proficiency test scores are just below the University general admission requirements, our Bridge Program is for you.

Regular track (two semesters): The students whose scores show intermediate proficiency level (45-64 iBT, 5.0-5.5 IELTS, PTE A 35-43) will be enrolled in the regular two-semester track and will follow the full Bridge Program curriculum.

Fast track (one semester): The students whose scores indicate advanced-intermediate level of proficiency (65-78 iBT, 5.5-6.0 IELTS, PTE A 44-52) will be enrolled in the fast one-semester track which follows a modified curriculum.

Students may be exempt from the Bridge program if English proficiency scores meets or exceeds one of the following: TOEFL 79 iBT (Minimum 19 subscores), IELTS 6.5 (Minimum 6.0 bandscores), PTE A 53 (Minimum 52 bandscores), ELS Level 112, or Duolingo 61.

The university reserves the right to make adjustments to the noted admission criteria.

Bridge program coursework may be used to satisfy progress toward degree requirements during the first four semesters of collegiate enrollment. Bridge program coursework taken after the fifth semester will only count as an elective credit and only if your major allows the course work to count. Each academic year, each head coach will declare two segments (one in the fall semester and one in the spring semester) that are considered in-season. All other segments during the academic year are considered out-of-season. Below are the NCAA requirements that are permitted during each of these segments.

In season, a student-athlete may participate in In season, a student-athlete may participate in countable athletically related activities as countable athletically related activities as follows: follows: • No more than 20 hours of activity per week • Sports other than golf and tennis. No more (Sunday through Saturday). than 15 hours of activity per week during 45- • No more than 4 hours of activity per day. consecutive calendar day period (Sunday • Must be given one day off per week. through Saturday). May omit vacation and • A travel day, with no other activity, is exam days so long as no practice/competition considered a day off. take place. • No more than 4 hours of activity per day. • Must be given two days off per week. Out-of-season, a student-athlete may participate in countable athletically related activities as • No more than 20 hours of activity per week follows: during 60-consective calendar day period • No more than 8 hours of conditioning, weight (Sunday through Saturday). May omit training or team/individual skill instruction vacation and exam days so long as no per week (Sunday through Saturday). practice/competition take place. • Team activities/Individual skill instruction may • No more than 4 hours of activity per day. not exceed 2 hours per week. Team skill • Must be given two days off per week. instruction may only occur until day before the declared start of the non-championship segment. • No more than 4 hours of activity per day. • Must be given two days off per week.

A student-athlete may participate in voluntary sport-related activity over the allowable number of practice hours per week provided:

• A student-athlete must not be required to report information back to a coach or other athletics department staff member and no staff member who observes the activity (i.e. athletic trainer, strength coach) may report information back to the student-athlete’s coach • A student-athlete must initiate and request the activity solely on his/her own accord. • A student-athletes attendance or participation in a voluntary activity must not be recorded for the purpose of reporting such information back to the coaching staff or other student-athletes. • A student-athlete may not be subject to penalty for not participating or recognition/incentives based on his/her participation. • A coach is not present to view or assist the voluntary activity. Countable athletically related activities (CARA) include any meeting, activity or instruction involving sports- related information and/or having an athletics purpose, held for one or more student-athletes at the direction of, or supervised by, any member or members of an institution's coaching staff.

Practice Logs or CARA logs will be reviewed through ARMS at the appropriate times by the Compliance Office. These calendars/practice logs must include an accurate account of all athletics activities for the given time period. Each week, the hours will be added up automatically in ARMS for each student-athlete. Once a coach submits their practice logs, a random selection of two student-athletes from each team will review and electronically sign the ARMS practice logs. The practice logs will be reviewed and approved by the Compliance Office. Student-Athletes that are selected will have two weeks to respond. After the two weeks the Compliance office will push the approvals through in ARMS. Annually, the Compliance Office will review appropriate NCAA rules and regulations with each team. Each student-athlete is responsible for having a basic understanding of NCAA rules in areas such as eligibility, playing and practice season, amateurism, agents, and employment. Each student-athlete will complete his/her Saint Leo Athletics Eligibility Packet, NCAA Student-Athlete Statement and NCAA Drug Testing Consent Forms annually through ARMS. Upon completion, the Compliance Office will certify that the student-athlete meets all academic and athletic eligibility requirements in order to practice and/or compete.

A basic knowledge of NCAA rules is a necessity to prevent unwanted rules violations that can affect your eligibility to compete. If you are aware of an NCAA violation, you are required by NCAA Bylaw 10.1 to provide such information to the Athletics Department immediately. You may inform the Compliance Office, the Director of Athletics, or any other athletics administrator.

Each student-athlete may compete for a total of four seasons within a 10-semester period in any sport. Once you enroll and attend classes during any full-time semester, you have utilized one of your 10 semesters.

Each academic year, the Compliance Office will certify if you have used one of your four seasons of competition. If you participate in any outside competition(s), you will have used a season of competition. The only exceptions are as follows: Freshmen may compete in scrimmages and exhibitions (which meet the NCAA definition for those contests) and not use a season of competition if they compete in no other contests; or Student-athletes in men’s soccer, women’s soccer may participate in spring competitions and not use a season of competition if they compete in no other contests and were eligible to compete during the fall semester; or Student-Athletes in Lacrosse, Baseball and Softball may participate in Fall competitions and not use a season of competition.

If you have not participated in any competition(s) for the current academic year, you will not be deducted a season of competition.

A student-athlete must be enrolled full-time (minimum of 12 credit hours) at all times to be eligible for practice and competition. If you drop below full-time enrollment at any time, you are immediately ineligible for practice, competition and financial aid. If you wish to drop a class at any time, you must see the Compliance Office. Graduate student-athletes must be enrolled in at least six credit hour in order to be considered full-time.

Exception to full-time enrollment: If you require less than 12 hours to graduate in your final semester you must fill out the “Final Semester Certification” form. This form requires the signature of both the Compliance and Registrars office. A student-athlete must declare a major by the start of the fifth semester of full-time enrollment or the junior year. Classes that count towards graduation in one major (such as Business Administration) may not count towards graduation in another (such as Exercise Science). Each student-athlete is required to meet with the NCAA Compliance Office prior to any change of major. Changing your major without first consulting with your these staff members may result in you becoming ineligible for competition or forfeiture of games.

In order to be eligible for practice in Saint Leo University Athletics you must: • Be registered for a full-time program of study towards a bachelor’s degree at Saint Leo University; • Complete all NCAA and Athletics Department Eligibility Paperwork; and • Complete all Athletics Department Medical Clearance Procedures.

In order to be eligible for competition in Saint Leo Athletics you must: • Be registered in a minimum of 12 credit hours at all times; • Meet all academic eligibility requirements of the NCAA, Saint Leo University, and athletic conference (if applicable); • Complete all NCAA and Athletics Department Eligibility Paperwork through ARMS; and • Complete all Athletics Department Medical Clearance Procedures.

A student-athlete must be an amateur in order to compete in intercollegiate athletics. A student-athlete will lose his/her eligibility for intercollegiate competition if he/she:

• Uses his/her athletics skills (directly or indirectly) for pay in any form in their sport; • Accepts a promise of pay (even if the pay will be after graduation or completion of their eligibility); • Signs a contract or commitment to play professional sports; • Receives (directly or indirectly) a salary, reimbursement of expenses or any other form of financial assistance from a professional sports organization; • Competes on any professional athletics team even if no pay or remuneration for expenses is received (except for tennis and golf); • Enters into a professional draft; • Enters into an agreement (written, oral, handshake) with an agent.

An agent or talent scout is any individual other than your parents or legal guardians that markets your athletic ability for the purpose of professional competition. If you or any of your family members are approached by an agent or talent scout regarding your ability for professional athletics, you must inform your coach and the Compliance Office immediately. Failure to do so could result in a loss of eligibility for intercollegiate athletics and possible forfeiture of games.

If you wish to pursue your options for a professional athletic career, you must contact the Compliance Office to discuss such options. A student-athlete may be eligible for a medical hardship waiver if all the following conditions are met:

• A student-athlete sustains an incapacitating injury or illness during one of the four seasons of competition; • The injury or illness occurs when the student-athlete has not participated in more than three contests/dates of competition or 30% of all scheduled contests, whichever is greater

The Medical Hardship waiver must be filed and granted by the Sunshine State Conference. Supporting medical documentation from the examining physician will be required to validate the incapacitating nature of the injury. A Medical Hardship Waiver grants an additional season of competition to the student-athlete that must be used within the student-athletes 10 semesters.

If a student-athlete believes a Medical Hardship Waiver should be granted, the student-athlete should inform their coaching staff, the Athletic Training Staff, and/or the Compliance office at the first available opportunity. Failure to notify the one of these staff members in a timely manner may prohibit a Medical Hardship Waiver based on Sunshine State Conference requirements.

Outside competition is considered any athletics competition against any other athletics team (including an alumni team) that does not represent the intercollegiate athletics program for Saint Leo University.

Any student-athlete who participates in outside competition during the academic year becomes ineligible and may not participate in intercollegiate competition until the NCAA has restored the student-athletes eligibility. For sports other than basketball a student-athlete may participate in outside competition during an official vacation period (winter break) that is outside of the sports declared playing season.

You may not compete as a member of any outside team or all-star squad in any non-collegiate, amateur competition in your sport except as approved by the NCAA. Check with your coach or the Athletic Compliance Department if questions arise.

The NCAA stipulates that responsibility for violations of NCAA regulations rests with each student-athlete. Responsibility for compliance with NCAA rules applies to the period of recruitment as well as to participation in college. Each student-athlete must reveal knowledge about violations by others, this may done to the Assistant Coach, Head Coach, FAR, Associate Athletic Director/SWA or Director of Athletics directly. The NCAA opposes all forms of legal and illegal sports wagering. Sports wagering has the potential to undermine the integrity of sports contests and jeopardizes the welfare of student-athletes and the intercollegiate athletics community. Sports wagering demeans the competition and competitors alike by a message that is contrary to the purposes and meaning of “sport”. Sports competition should be appreciated for the inherent benefits related to participation of student-athletes, coaches, and institutions in fair contests, not the amount of money wagered on the outcome of the competition.

For these reasons, the NCAA membership has adopted specific rules prohibiting athletics department staff members and student-athletes from engaging in gambling activities as they relate to intercollegiate or professional sporting events. This includes betting through a bookie, online pools, family pools, Facebook pools, fantasy leagues or any other wagering designed to award anything of tangible value to a winner.

In addition to actually wagering on sporting events, providing information to someone within organized gambling regarding an event or student-athlete is also prohibited. Organized gambling on sports has become a serious business, one in which the gambling industry is constantly seeking sources of information to set the betting lines or odds. If this occurs, you must immediately report this information to your coach or someone within the Athletics Department Administration. Involvement in gambling, regardless of how minor, may jeopardize any or all of your athletics eligibility.

Saint Leo strongly supports the NCAA’s position on gambling and also strongly discourages all forms of gambling, including gambling unrelated to athletics events, such as poker, blackjack, etc. Gambling can become a very addictive behavior, one that can jeopardize your health, welfare, athletic or academic success. If you feel that you have an issue with gambling please do not hesitate to contact your coach, the Compliance Office, Athletics Director or any other Athletics Department administrator to seek help.

Strict NCAA rules apply to any tobacco products at games or practices. Make sure you are not using tobacco products either on the field or practice or within any athletic facility including the Athletic Training Room, batting cages, tennis courts, etc. The Marion Bowman Activities Center is a smoke-free building. All smoking must be done outside and not during any athletically related activity. This policy also applies to smokeless tobacco products. There is to be no dip or chewing tobacco used by students or staff on the fields or in the offices, training rooms or locker rooms.

The institution has prohibited the use of any tobacco products inside any facility as well as all athletic venues such as inside the baseball stadium, for example. Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a large number of people, typically via the Internet.

A student-athlete is permitted to set up his or her own profile on a crowdfunding website to solicit funds to pay for expenses associated with competition and practice for an outside team. A student-athlete who participates in a sport as a member of a team may receive actual and necessary expenses for competition and practice held in preparation for competition from the outside team.

A student-athlete is not permitted to set up his or her own crowdfunding website and use his or her name, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds to buy items (e.g., laptop, car, food, school supplies, athletics equipment.) The student-athlete's eligibility to compete in intercollegiate athletics in a particular sport is jeopardized if he or she uses his or her name, picture, athletics skill or reputation to earn pay in any form in the sport, including funds through a crowdfunding website for items of need.

A student-athlete is permitted to set up his or her own crowdfunding website and use his or her name, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds for a mission trip because fundraising for a mission trip is usually operated by a nonprofit entity is generally considered a permissible promotional activity for a student-athlete under Bylaw 12.5.1.1.

A student-athlete, who has exhausted his or her eligibility, is permitted to set up a crowdfunding site and use his or her name, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds for educational expenses provided the student- athlete is not currently enrolled in the academic year in which the student-athlete will exhaust eligibility.

A student-athlete who is currently enrolled in the academic year in which he or she will exhaust eligibility is not permitted to set up a crowdfunding site and use his or her name, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds for educational expenses. Saint Leo Athletics is responsible for ensuring your amateur status to participate in intercollegiate athletics, including the use of a student-athlete’s name, picture, likeness or appearance to promote activities. According to NCAA Bylaw 12.5.1.1, the Saint Leo Athletics Department is required to present written approval for any student-athlete participating in any institutional, or non-institutional charitable, educational, or non-profit activity or project considered incidental to the student-athlete’s participation in intercollegiate athletics.

Saint Leo, or a non-institutional charitable, educational, or non-profit agency may use a student-athlete’s name, picture, or appearance to support its charitable or educational activities, but as stipulated under NCAA Bylaws 12.5.1.1 (a-i), a Saint Leo student-athlete may participate in an institutional, or non- institutional charitable, educational, or non-profit promotion only under the following conditions:

 The student-athlete receives written approval to participate from the Director of Athletics (or his/her designee);  The student-athlete and an authorized representative of the charitable, educational, or non-profit agency must sign a release statement ensuring that the student- athlete’s name, image, or appearance will not be used for any commercial purpose;  The specific activity or project in which the student- athlete participates does not involve co- sponsorship, advertisement, or promotion by a commercial agency. The sponsoring organization may reproduce their regular trademark or logo (along with their address and telephone number) only on printed materials such as pictures, posters, or calendars;  The name or picture of a student-athlete with remaining eligibility may not appear on an institution’s printed promotional item (e.g. poster, calendar) that includes a reproduction of a product with which a commercial entity is associated if the commercial entity’s officially registered regular trademark or logo appears on the item;  The student-athlete does not miss class;  All monies derived from the activity or project go directly to Saint Leo, or the charitable, educational, or non- profit agency;  The student-athlete’s name, picture, or appearance is not utilized to promote the commercial ventures of any non-profit agency. Student-athletes have the opportunity to participate in the recruiting process under certain circumstances. These activities can include hosting a prospect. The topics below cover permissible and impermissible activities for student-athletes with regard to recruiting.

The most common recruiting activity student-athletes participate in is during an official visit. An official visit is a visit in which Saint Leo pays the expenses for a prospective student-athlete to visit our campus for a limited amount of time. On an official visit, many of you may serve as a student host.

The following are guidelines in order to serve as a student host: • A student-athlete must be enrolled full-time. • Only one student-host may be provided a free meal if attending a restaurant. • The student host shall only receive money to entertain the prospect, the prospect’s parents or spouse and the student host. • A maximum of $30.00 a day will be provided to cover all entertainment expenses. An additional $15.00 a day may be provided for each additional prospect being hosted by one student-athlete. • Entertainment expenses can include late night snacks. • A student host may not purchase alcoholic beverages regardless of whether the host or the prospect is of legal drinking age. • No cash may be given to the visiting prospect. • A student host may not use entertainment funds to purchase gifts or souvenirs for the prospect. • A student host may not use transportation provided or arranged by a Saint Leo staff member or booster of the athletics program. • A student host may not transport the prospect or friends/family more than 30 miles from campus. • A student host may not allow recruiting conversations to occur, on or off campus, between a prospect and a booster. • A student host may receive complimentary admission when accompanying a prospect to an on campus athletics event. • A student host may not use student host money to entertain any individuals other than the prospect and his/her parents or legal guardians. This includes teammates, friends, coaches, etc. • A student host shall be responsible for turning in all receipts the day after the visit.

In addition, the following are strictly prohibited during an official visit: • The use of alcohol, regardless of age • The use of drugs • The use of sex as a recruiting tool • Entertainment outside a 30-mile radius of campus • Gambling activities • Interaction with boosters of the athletics program • Any other activity that violates criminal law, Saint Leo policy or NCAA rules Prior to an official visit, the head coach, or his/her designee, is responsible for assigning the student host workflow in ARMS. The student host will review the Student Host Instructions and sign of in ARMS. By signing the Student Host Form, you certify that the Student Host Instructions and Official Visit Policy have been reviewed. After the official visit, the student-athlete must return receipts for use of any and all entertainment money and any remaining money no later than the day after the conclusion of the official visit. The student host and the head coach will certify how much of the entertainment money was spent and returned in ARMS.

NCAA rules permit a student-athlete on a scholarship to receive income from work-study employment in the Athletic Department. However, each student-athlete is required to complete all paperwork in Human Resources prior to working in any department. Employment secured off campus with the assistance of a Saint Leo coach will need to be on file with the compliance office.

A student-athlete may be employed at any Saint Leo, other institution, or privately owned camp or clinic, provide he/she is paid for work actually performed and paid at an equivalent rate for other camp/clinic employees with similar duties. In addition, the following requirements apply:

• A student-athlete must perform general supervisory duties in addition to any coaching or officiating duties; • A student-athlete may not be paid based on athletics ability or reputation; • A student-athlete may not be paid for only lecturing or demonstrating at a camp/clinic; • A student-athlete may not use his/her name or image to promote the camp.

In addition to compensation, a student-athlete may receive travel expenses provided such travel expenses are given to all employees of the camp/clinic. A student-athlete may not conduct his/her own camp or clinic at any time.

According to NCAA legislation, it is permissible for an institution's coach who owns or operates a local sports club to employ a student-athlete, who is a member of his or her team, in the club outside the institution's playing season, provided no countable athletically related activities occur as a result of the employment. In addition, the following requirements apply:

• You cannot be paid on the basis of my athletics ability or reputation; • You can only be paid for work that I have actually performed; • You can only be compensated at a rate commensurate with the going rate in this locality for similar services; • You will not take any benefits not available to other employees; • You may not endorse a company, your employer or any commercial product or service; • The employer will not publicize your employment or use your name or picture to advertiser or promote the organization; and, • You will make available, if requested, copies of all records related to my employment. It is the goal of Saint Leo University Athletics to continually educate and inform its student-athletes. As legislation changes and new situations arise, we understand the significance of the student-athlete contribution, and strive to support all of its athletes by providing comprehensive rules education. • The Head Coach, Faculty Athletics Representative and Director of Compliance are responsible for educating student-athletes. • The Compliance staff will conduct a rules education meeting at the beginning of each semester with each team. This meeting will review important NCAA and SLU regulations, including the summary of NCAA Regulations, Academic Eligibility Rules, Financial Aid, Code of Conduct, Amateurism Guidelines, and Playing and Practice Seasons. • The Compliance staff will administer all NCAA and SLU Eligibility paperwork, NCAA Drug Consent Forms, HIPAA Forms, and the Student-Athlete Statement through ARMS software system. • The Compliance staff are responsible for providing student- athletes with written materials regarding relevant rules and interpretations. This material will be distributed through the ARMS software program. Each student-athlete will be encouraged to consult the Athletic Departments Website or the NCAA website for all related compliance information. Rules education is a critical part of the compliance program at Saint Leo University. Education and knowledge of university and NCAA rules is the first step in maintaining compliance and upholding the integrity of the university. Although student-athletes are not expected to know every NCAA rule, they are expected to know the basic rules, to use the student-athlete handbook as a reference point, and to ask for interpretations before acting when the rules or situation seems unclear. The rules education program is intended to prepare student-athletes to identify areas where compliance problems may exist and to identify infractions, should they occur. The rules education program is also intended to inform and educate student-athletes of proposals and changes to NCAA rules throughout the legislative process. In addition, Director of Compliance will seek input from student-athlete advisory committee throughout the process that relates to their specific sport or area.

Director of Compliance will schedule and conduct rules education throughout the year as follows:

• A group compliance meeting will be held at the beginning of the academic year to cover new legislation, review the student-athlete handbook, and procedures for the upcoming year. • The Compliance staff will have a follow-up in-person meeting with all sports teams during the beginning of the spring semester. • Compliance Student-Athlete Compliance Matters Monthly Newsletters will be sent through your ARMS e- mail. • The Compliance staff will send rules education and department reminders throughout the semester through the ARMS text messaging system.

• The following documents will be available on Athletics Department website: • NCAA Compliance Manual; • Saint Leo University Guide for Boosters & representatives of Athletic Interests • Saint Leo University Student-Athlete Handbook All financial aid assistance received by a student-athlete must be reported annually. Compliance with NCAA and Sunshine State Conference rules and regulations is required. Therefore, if you are on an athletic scholarship, check with the Director of Financial Aid before accepting additional aid. A full scholarship equivalency represents the maximum for your combined aid. However, you may be eligible to receive additional assistance from Pell Grant Funds without affecting your athletic scholarship. Contact the Financial Aid Office for more information on Pell Grants.

The Financial Aid Office staff helps you investigate the possibility of long-term student loans or federal grants, and assists you with the application process related to qualifying for these funds.

You may receive a grant-in-aid, frequently called a “scholarship”, because of your athletic ability. An athletically related grant-in-aid and other forms of financial assistance helps you with your university expenses.

ALL AGREEMENTS MUST BE IN WRITING. The financial aid agreement is for one year per NCAA legislation. The scholarship document is the only binding contract between the institution and the student-athlete. Saint Leo University will not honor any verbal or written agreements outside of the scholarship.

Varsity teams receive a specific number of grants-in- aid (scholarships) in accordance with budgetary restrictions and NCAA regulations. The University Financial Aid Office awards these grants upon the recommendation of the Head coach and the approval of the VP/ Director of Athletics. Grants-in- aid are not reimbursement for services performed. Grants-in-aid help student-athletes with their educational expenses such as tuition, room, board and course-related books.

Grants-in-aid may be available for the summer term classes. You must work with your head coach on completing the required form. Summer aid is subject to the recommendation of the Head Coach and the discretion of the VP/ Director of Athletics.

By NCAA regulations, athletic grant-in-aid is awarded for a one-year term and may be renewed, however they are not guaranteed. Questions always arise concerning the types of University expenses that are not covered for a student-athlete on full scholarship. Covered items include tuition, required books, room and board. The expenses listed below are not covered by your scholarship.

Items not covered: • Cost for treatment for non-athletically related injuries or illnesses • Fines for damage to University property, including the Resident Halls • Key deposits or replacement of lost Residence Hall Key • “Consumable charges” which can be anything from lab fees for breakage to non-required field trips • Replacement fee for lost ID’s • School supplies such as pens, notebooks, paper • Vehicle registration fee • Parking fines • Charges for lost athletic-issued equipment • Health Center Fees • Commencement Fees • Non-required fees & supplies • Off campus housing

Summer school awards are considered on a case by case basis. There are many factors in determining who will receive “Summer School Award”(e.g. available funds, gender and sport equity). Numerous major changes, course withdrawals and failures, and other circumstances from the student-athlete’s personal academic record will affect the granting of such aid. Summer aid is at the recommendation of the head coach and at the discretion of the Director of Athletics.

A student-athlete is permitted to receive financial aid in any way related to athletics ability, either from Saint Leo or an outside source, up to a full grant-in-aid (covering tuition, fees, room, board, and required course related books). Other sources of aid unrelated to athletics ability (loans, grants, Pell Grants, etc.) may be received up to the cost of attendance, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid. Each student-athlete is required to report all outside aid to the Financial Aid Office at the start of the academic year. The Office of Financial Aid will determine whether the outside aid is permissible within accordance of NCAA rules.

If a student-athlete receives aid in excess of the permissible amount of NCAA allowable aid, the student- athlete’s athletics aid will be reduced or the student-athlete will be asked to decline an outside award to remain in accordance with NCAA rules. A grant-in-aid remains in effect for the term of that award, per NCAA rules all scholarships are a one year agreement. A scholarship may be reduced or cancelled during that period if you (the recipient):

• Render yourself ineligible for athletic competition. • Misrepresent information on your application or Letter of Intent. • Voluntarily withdraw from your sport. • Engage in misconduct serious enough to warrant disciplinary action and cancellation of aid.

Failure to follow training regulations and/or a lack of effort in practice to improve skills and level of performance may result in a downgrade or non-renewal of aid based on athletic ability the following year.

You will receive notification by June 30th of each year concerning the status of your financial aid. The head coach may recommend an amendment/cancellation to your original grant to the Director of Athletics and then the Director of Financial Aid. You may appeal a decision to reduce or discontinue your aid through the University Scholarship Committee. The appeal process must be completed prior to the commencement of the next academic year.

NCAA institutions receive more penalties for providing extra benefits to student-athletes than any other infraction. Many of these extra benefits come from coaches or “outside supporters.” Accepting illegal aid violates NCAA rules and causes the loss of eligibility and scholarship benefits. MAKE SURE YOU ARE NOT THE RECIPIENT OF ANY OF THESE BENEFITS.

Illegal benefits: • Transportation not paid for by the student-athlete • Use of athletic department printers, copier, or fax machine for personal use • Gifts or loans of money • Gifts of clothing or other personal items • Arrangement for the purchase of an automobile on special, favorable terms • Use of an automobile not his or her own (perhaps a coach’s car) • Free admission or a special discount not available to other students • Special favors to parents or legal guardians • Unusual housing or living arrangements • Selling or allowing the sale of the student-athlete’s tickets to an athletic event • Special entertainment not available to other students. • Books provided outside the financial aid process

These are only a few examples of illegal aid. Avoid any “free” or “special” benefit unless you are certain that the benefit is equally available to all students and unless you discuss the situation with your head coach. When in doubt about accepting any benefit or interpretation, consult your coach, Associate Director of Athletics, Director of Compliance, or Faculty Athletic Representative. A student who wishes to appeal any decision related to his or her athletic grant-in-aid shall submit a written request that includes the following information to the Director of Athletics within 30 days of notification:

• The student’s name, student ID number, year in school, and sport • Type and amount of previous financial aid • Reasons why the student feels the decision was unfair • Copies of any relevant documents (e.g. letter regarding initial award of athletic scholarship, written promises)

If the VP/ Director of Athletics denies the request, the student may request an in-person hearing before the scholarship appeals committee. The appeal is reviewed by the scholarship appeals committee, and its decision is final. The committee is comprised of individuals outside of the athletic department and is chaired by the Assistant to the President.

The student-athlete submits an appeal to the Office of the Assistant to the President within the 30 day window with the supporting documents. A hearing date is set. The student- athlete will present to the committee followed by the VP/ Director of Athletics or head coach. The appeal is reviewed and one of the following two actions is taken:

• If the scholarship appeals committee finds that the decision to reduce or not renew the aid has not violated the rules, regulations or institutional policies and no extenuating circumstances are present, the appeal is denied. • If the scholarship appeals committee finds that the decision to reduce or not renew the aid did violate the rules, regulations and institutional policies, the appeal will be approved. The grant and aid is then made available to the student-athlete as soon as possible.

In any case, the chair of the scholarship appeals committee will notify the student-athlete in writing within three (3) weeks after the appeal is submitted. If the student wishes to discuss the result of the appeal, a meeting with the chair or a designated member of the scholarship appeals committee is arranged. The mission of the Sports Medicine Department at Saint Leo University seeks to preserve and enhance the mission of the University along with its culture and values through professional health care. The Saint Leo University Sports Medicine Department focuses on the student-athlete’s physical and emotional well-being by providing professional education & prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries and illnesses. The Sports Medicine Department is made up of certified athletic trainers, primary care physicians, orthopedic specialists and other ancillary personnel representing 21 intercollegiate sports and cheerleading. This department strives to continue to look for new and creative ways to provide a safe environment for our student-athletes while being an advocate for Saint Leo University.

• Read over Policy and Procedure Manual upon entering Saint Leo University, and direct any questions to the Sports Medicine Team. • Modest dress is required at all times inside the athletic training room in accordance with regulations set forth by the University’s dress code, especially during cold tub usage • Protective footwear is required throughout the athletic training room; no spiked shoes in the athletic training room, weight room, locker room or hallways. • Obey all safety rules and regulations; use prescribed pads and equipment, strapping, wrapping, and other protective equipment. • Treat Sports Medicine staff with respect. • Avoid removal of supplies or equipment from the athletic training room without the permission of the AT. All equipment must be signed out and returned. • Carry out to the fullest all conditioning and rehabilitation programs prescribed by the Sports Medicine and Strength & Conditioning Staff. • Report all injuries to the coach and AT. • Report all current prescription medication to AT. • Report on time for all treatments and doctor appointments and document when needed.

Daily operating procedures and hours for the athletic training room are to be posted on the athletic training room door. During the academic calendar the athletic training room will be open a maximum of one hour prior to practice, and two hours prior to a game for treatments and taping. Weekend hours are scheduled around in-season practice & competition. Rehabilitation appointments will be scheduled according to AT and student- athlete’s schedule. In the event of an emergency and the athletic training room is closed, injured student- athletes should be cared for at either Health Services, or, if warranted, at Advent Health Dade City. The assigned athletic trainer to your team should be notified of this occurrence. Coaches are required to submit to the athletic training staff a complete copy of the team’s practice schedule, including start and end times one week in advance. A member of the athletic training staff will be available prior to, during and after a scheduled practice as permitted by staffing constraints. Failure to notify the athletic training staff of practice times, or a future change in time could result in a cancellation of practice by the athletic training office. Coverage issues which cannot be resolved between the coach and the assigned athletic trainer are to be reported to the VP/Director of Athletics and/or SWA by both parties.

All student-athletes must have medical clearance prior to participation in intercollegiate athletics. Incoming student-athletes must be seen by the Saint Leo team physician while all returners should make every attempt possible to have his/her physical completed by a home physician (this excludes any Urgent Care, Chiropractor or Nurse Practitioner). These physicals will be arranged by the Saint Leo Sports Medicine staff.

All student-athletes are required to submit medical information via ARMS that includes the following: • Authorization for Communication • Risk & Liability Waiver • Secondary Insurance Acknowledgement • Medical History Form • HIPPA Form: Consent for Disclosure of Protected Health Info • Drug Testing Acknowledgment • ADHD and Associated Medications • Sickle Cell Waiver • Concussion Awareness Statement • Mental Health Questionnaire

All incoming students and select returners must complete an annual baseline concussion test. All student- athletes must provide Proof of Health Insurance – viable in Saint Leo, Florida. A clear photocopy of the front & back of insurance cards must be uploaded to his/her Sportsware Online account/profile.

**When physical, Sportsware Online Profile, Concussion Testing, Sports Med Packet, and Insurance Information have all been accurately completed & submitted to the Sports Medicine Staff, then the athlete will be medically cleared to participate in sports activity via ARMS.**

Student-athletes wishing to walk-on or try-out for team must meet with the Head Coach, who will then be responsible for submitting all required paperwork. It is the coaches’ responsibility to gather, complete and submit all Walk-on/Try-out paperwork to the compliance office in advance. All try-outs must provide documentation of a physical obtained within 12 months of the start of the sport season. Try-outs who make the team will then be required to submit all additional paperwork prior to resuming participation with the team that is mentioned above as part of the medical clearance process for all student-athletes. Participation in varsity athletics carries with it a risk of injury. The following areas describe the coverage provided to student-athletes injured while participating in a required athletically related activity – injuries outside athletically related participation in a varsity sport (e.g. intramural and club sport injuries) are not covered by the athletic department sports medicine insurance policy although these injuries must be reported to the athletic training staff for participation clearance (see below).

All athletic injuries occurring to a student-athlete participating in a varsity athletically related activity are covered by the athletic department insurance policy once the student-athletes’ insurance has paid the initial claim for each occurrence– this includes illness that can be directly traced to participation in intercollegiate athletics. Illness or injury sustained by student-athletes while participating in non-departmental activities (e.g. intramurals, etc.) is not covered.

As a result of the athletic department insurance policy not extending to non-varsity participation injuries or illness student-athletes should have primary insurance for complete coverage of injury and illness. Student- athletes who choose not to purchase the Saint Leo University insurance policy must provide proof of insurance with a US based address and claims address prior to participation.

– All claims for an athletic injury will be filed against the athlete’s personal insurance policy first. The athletic department policy, separate from the Saint Leo University policy available for purchase, will complete payment of any remaining balance related to the athletically related injury – according to policy guidelines. It will be the responsibility of the student-athlete to submit bills to the primary policy, if one exists (outside personal policy if the student-athlete did not purchase Saint Leo coverage). Note: the department carries NCAA Catastrophic Insurance and Gap Coverage. Notification – The athletic training staff will inform each student-athlete and his/her guardian as to the insurance policies of the athletic department. The student-athlete and/or guardian (if under the age of 18) will be asked to sign a form confirming receipt of this information and understanding of the policy.

The athletic department is not responsible for the cost and coordination of normal dental or vision care – although treatment of this nature must be reported to the athletic training staff. The sports medicine staff will assist the student-athlete in obtaining care for injuries sustained to the teeth or eyes as a result of participation. Referrals will be made to the appropriate specialist by the sports medicine staff. The athletic training room is equipped to provide many treatment plans, and those treatment plans will be logged daily by the sports medicine staff. Those treatment plans which the athletic training room can accommodate should be performed “in-house” under the supervision of a licensed and certified athletic trainer staff. Student-athletes who choose to use outside treatment or rehabilitation facilities must notify the Saint Leo sports medicine staff prior to the 1st visit. Student-athletes will become inactive should they fail to adhere to this provision until cleared by the Sports Medicine staff.

It is mandatory for student-athletes to report all injuries and illnesses (including common cold, asthma attacks while not at practice or competition, injuries incurred during personal time, etc.) to the head coach and sports medicine staff. The head coach is to follow-up with the athletic training staff to ensure solid communication of injuries and illness. Athletic trainers will then follow-up with any medical attention sought by the student- athlete for the outside injury or illness – student-athletes seeking outside medical attention are required to take Saint Leo Sports Medicine medical forms with them and to keep the Saint Leo Sports Medicine staff apprised of all medical treatment. Once injured, student-athletes are not to practice again until cleared by the sports medicine staff.

Student-athletes injured during varsity participation must report the injury to the sports medicine staff immediately, regardless of severity (e.g. stubbed toe to broken nose). The coaching staff is to help facilitate this communication. No injury known to the coach is to go unreported to the athletic training staff.

Any student-athlete who has suffered a disturbance of vision, consciousness, orientation, back or neck injury, breathing difficulty, possible loss of joint integrity, musculoskeletal deformity and/or dysfunction, significant bleeding, or significant health related problems should be referred to the sports medicine staff on the day of the occurrence or disclosure (e.g. if a student-athlete injures him/herself on Sunday and tells the coach Monday, the coach must report the injury to the athletic training staff on Monday).

All athletics personnel associated with practices, competitions, skill instruction and strength and conditioning are required to obtain yearly certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques, first aid and complete defibrillation training program.

The sports medicine staff will medically clear each student-athlete prior to the first date of practice. Any injury or illness that takes place thereafter will require another clearance from the athletic training staff. Comprehensive medical records will be maintained in the athletic training office for all student-athletes. The sports medicine staff, in cooperation with physician orders, is the final authority on when an injured or ill athlete may return to practice or competition.

Medical information may be released only upon authorization of the student-athlete. Student-athletes provide this authorization by signing the HIPPA form. Saint Leo’s team physicians are Dr. Byron Moran (Sports Medicine Primary Care), Dr. Charles Nofsinger (Orthopedic) and Dr. Delbert Remaley (Orthopedic). Injured student-athletes will see the team physicians as directed by the overseeing athletic trainer, who will examine the student-athlete for athletic injuries, provide diagnostic testing (e.g. X-ray, Bone Scan, MRI, etc.), make a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment plan. The physician and athletic trainer will make the necessary arrangements for further care of the student-athlete.

The athletic training staff MUST be notified prior to any medical treatment unless it includes an emergency. This includes but is not limited to medical attention from personal doctor, dentist appointment, cosmetic treatment, etc. Lack of proper communication and notification could result in personal responsibility for any financial charges incurred. Any medical treatment sought by a student-athlete must go through the sports medicine staff. Student-athletes will become inactive should they fail to adhere to this provision until cleared by the Sports Medicine staff.

Student-athletes are allowed to seek a second opinion from any medical personnel; however, the athletic training staff must be notified of additional medical assessment prior to the visit. Student-athletes will no longer be covered by their insurance policy if not properly adhered to. A referral is required.

Saint Leo Athletics is committed to the prevention, identification, evaluation and management of concussions. The concussion management plan establishes 1) that all student-athletes and coaches will receive education regarding the nature of concussions and the steps to take when a concussion is suspect; 2) all student-athletes will receive baseline measurement in preseason to determine their normal performance on tests of balance, cognitive processing, and reaction time; 3) any student-athlete who appears to have suffered a head trauma incident that may have produced a concussion shall be removed from practice or competition and evaluated as soon as possible by a certified athletic trainer with experience in the evaluation and management of concussion. In cases that appear positive for concussion, the student-athlete will be referred for follow-up balance and cognitive testing, and medical evaluation. Student-athletes diagnosed with a concussion shall not return to activity until cleared by the team physician or their designee according to the Saint Leo Sports Medicine concussion management plan.

In addition, student-athletes must sign a statement in which they accept the responsibility for reporting their injuries and illnesses to the certified athletic trainers, including signs and symptoms of concussions Saint Leo Athletics is committed to the education, prevention and management of heat illness. All coaches and student-athletes will receive education regarding the prevention, presentation and management of heat illnesses. Any athlete who is suspected to be suffering from a potential heat illness will be evaluated via rectal thermometry with activation of emergency medical services. Before any student-athlete can return to participation he/she must be cleared by Saint Leo’s team physician and undergo appropriate return to play protocol.

In case of emergency while on a road trip, if an athlete is sent and/or admitted to a hospital, a departmental staff member should accompany if possible and stay with the athlete until they are released. The head athletic trainer should be contacted immediately and start a phone tree beginning with the Athletic Director. Emergency information for each student-athlete must be available while traveling.

In case of an emergency situation involving individuals outside the realm of the athletic program, first aid will be administered and further medical assistance will be summoned. Upon the arrival of said personnel, the athletic training staff will relinquish all handling of the situation to said personnel. No other treatment or evaluation will be offered or administered other than first aid. (Translation – the athletic training room is not open to the public and the staff is not covered to provide individuals outside the department with medical care beyond first aid).

The Sport Medicine section of this manual is a insert from the 2019-20 Sports Medicine Policies and Procedures Handbook. For a complete list of the Sports Medicine Department policies and procedures can be viewed online at saintleolions.com. Click on “Inside Athletics” tab, select the Sports Medicine tab, the link is at the bottom of the page. You can also click on the cover page to that is linked to the location of the handbook. The athletics communication department acts as a liaison between members of the Saint Leo Athletic Department and the media. The Director of Athletics Communication will develop and maintain positive working relationships with local and national members of the media. In order to eliminate potential problems, it is required that those who wish to speak with coaches and/or student-athletes go through the athletics communication department.

All requests to speak with student-athletes must go through the athletics communication office. This includes the off-season interviews with hometown media. Student-athletes are NOT to speak to media from their personal cell phones. All interviews with student-athletes must be conducted either in-person or via phone conversation in the coach’s office or the athletics communication office with the coach or an athletics communication staff member present. This is non-negotiable and for the protection of the student-athlete. Coaches will be informed when their student-athletes are being contacted by a member of the media. Coaches are not to release any personal contact information for student-athletes.

All student-athlete information is confidential. The athletics communication staff will not release any phone numbers, e-mail addresses, physical addresses, class schedules, etc. of any student-athletes to anyone. Although this information is not released, each coach is required to supply this information to the athletics communication staff for purposes of contacting student-athletes on special occasions.

Music played prior to, during and after home events is for fans and student-athletes. This music should not contain any expletives or suggestive lyrics. At least seven days prior to the first home event, the team should provide the Athletics Communications office a list of songs and each song’s artist(s) or a list of songs that can be found on iTunes. An Athletics Communication staff member will then go through the list to determine which songs should be complied on the playlist. The final playlist comes to at the discretion of athletics communication and external relations. The playlist will not be altered during a warm-up or halftime and will only be upgraded 48 hours prior to the next event, after review of the suggested songs. The team’s choice of music can be whatever while gates are closed but once gates are open, the music will switch to more fan friendly.

All action shots and drama shots that the athletics communication and external relations departments gather throughout your specific sport season are disseminated after the final season contest. Photos that are loaded on Twitter, Instagram, or as a Facebook album are fair game and the student-athletes are permitted to save and upload on their personal accounts to help promote the University. Stopping by the athletics communication or external relations departments to ask for photos throughout the year is prohibited; requests after the season must come through the coach. If student-athletes are not present at their scheduled photo day, they should notify their coach. If the student-athlete is unable to attend a later photo day, the student-athlete will not have their picture appear on saintleolions.com. It is the coach’s responsibility to ensure all student-athletes participate in this process.

It is not the role of a parent or student-athlete to argue statistics. Any disagreement must be brought to the student-athlete’s coach who will address the issue through the appropriate channels. Social networks have grown in popularity within the past few years and are used by millions of students, fans, alumni, faculty, businesses, and the media. While social networking websites are a great way to communicate, express yourself and connect with others, it is advised that you are cautious about the information and pictures you post (or others post about you), as they may adversely affect your personal safety, personal and institutional reputation, and career advancement. The Saint Leo Athletic Department expects all student-athletes to maintain the highest standards of social and personal conduct.

Saint Leo supports your First Amendment rights to free speech, however please be mindful of the material posted to social networking sites since you are a representative of the University and are in the public eye. While participating in social networking sites, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

• The information posted can be viewed by a larger audience than you might be aware of – even if you limit access to your site (private). • Exercise caution as to what information you post on your website including posts about your whereabouts, plans, where you live, phone numbers or any other personal information. You could be opening yourself up to predators or stalkers. In addition, many people are looking to take advantage of student-athletes, while others seek connections with student-athletes to give them a sense of membership in the team. • Future employers may check Google or other social networks to gather information on potential candidates. Use common sense when publishing anything on the Internet. • Think twice before posting, you may think you can post something in 2016 and by 2023 it’s gone, take for example any issues in pro sports with how the media digs up previous tweets or posts, employers can do this as well.

As a Saint Leo student- athlete, you will be held responsible for any actions that are deemed inappropriate and compromise the integrity of the institution and your sport. In addition, you are accountable for any behaviors that violate federal and state laws, NCAA, Sunshine State Conference, University, Team, and Athletics Department policies. Violating any of the above can result in discipline, team suspension, termination from your team, and reduction or non-renewal of annual athletic scholarship.

Examples of inappropriate or offensive behaviors may include depictions or presentations of the following: • Hazing • Use of alcohol • Use of drugs • Lewd or lascivious behavior • Communication with sport agents • Slander • Access to valuable team information that promotes sports gambling

All student-athletes and employees are encouraged to promote Saint Leo Athletics on social media by following @SAINTLEOLIONS on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and subscribing to the Saint Leo Lions YouTube channel. Our Strength & Conditioning program aims to assist student athletes in maximizing the overall growth and athletic potential over the entire length of their collegiate career. Through comprehensive, research-based program design and application, it is our goal to reduce the potential for injury, and increase athletic performance. The training environment is intentionally designed to be both mentally and physically challenging as to best replicate the physiological and psychological demands of competition.

In the Strength and Conditioning Department, the focus is on developing the complete athlete using proven scientific methods and innovations to give each athlete the best training. The Strength and Conditioning Staff is constantly evolving with the changing demands of today’s sports to help ensure the athletes stay healthy and perform at their peak potential.

• Movement patterns are assessed and deficiencies are identified and corrected, using corrective exercises before proceeding to more advanced training protocols. • Progressive routines are implemented to ensure core and posterior chain strength is adequate to support the movements required by the sport. • Strength, speed and power are developed using free weight movements, such as Olympic variations, multi joint power movements, and plyometrics. • The latest evidence-based speed development methods are used to increase linear speed, acceleration, deceleration and agility. • The strength and conditioning staff focuses on developing sport specific strength and speed that translates into improved performance on the field or court. • Mental toughness is trained through strict discipline and challenging obstacles that student-athletes must overcome individually and in team settings. • We will strive be leaders in the industry, providing exemplary service to our student-athletes along with being at the forefront in current advances in the sports performance field.

The Strength and Conditioning Staff works closely with the Sports Medicine Staff to enhance injury prevention and return to play exercise. Discussions between the staffs take place on a daily basis in which the needs of each athlete are reviewed and a plan is developed to minimize the risk of injury and to decrease the time away from competition.

The Strength and Conditioning Facility is the epicenter for the student-athlete’s physical development. It provides student-athletes the opportunity to train in a facility dedicated to their success and with equipment in place for the sole purpose of improving athletic performance. In addition, these student- athletes have access to a staff dedicated to providing them the support to reach their peak physical development. There are many awards and honors for student-athletes who distinguish themselves academically.

The President’s Club honors those students who are in the top 10 percent of all student-athletes. Those students each semester will be honored the following semester with a luncheon attended by the faculty, athletic administration staff and University President.

The National College Athlete Honor Society honors those students who have attended at least 5 full time semesters; at least one year on our campus – with a cum GPA of at least a 3.50 and who have been nominated by their coach. New members will be recognized during the Green & Gold Awards presentation in the spring semester.

The Sunshine State Conference (SSC) and the NCAA also honor student- athletes who establish academic records. SSC All-Academic teams are announced twice each year to give exposure to student-athletes who compete in SSC competition and excel in both classroom and the playing field. To be named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll a student-athlete must earn a 3.2 during their respective season.

The NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship awards financial aid to outstanding student-athletes who plan to continue their education in a professional or graduate school. The deadlines for each sport vary so check with the FAR for your area if you feel you would qualify.

All student-athletes who complete their eligibility will receive a participation award.

When a team wins a conference championship, the team will receive an award celebrating this success in addition to tee shirts and a trophy provided by the conference office. A Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) was formed in 1995 to serve as a liaison between the athletic teams and Athletic Department at Saint Leo University. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, comprised of representatives from all sponsored intercollegiate sports, meets to discuss and review the concerns and issues of contemporary student-athletes. An advisor will be chosen to work with the students in conjunction with the Associate Athletic Director.

The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee: • Provides a means of communication between student-athletes and the Department of Athletics Administration • Provide to opportunity to develop leadership skills • Provide feedback and insight into athletics department issues • Solicits student-athletes responses to proposed conference and NCAA legislation • Builds and encourages a sense of community within the athletics program involving all athletics teams • Promotes and supports athletics at Saint Leo University

One representatives from each team form the committee. Each member has one vote in all matters before the committee.

Election: Their respective coaches meet with the SAAC Advisor to choose their committee representative. Each member serves a one-year term. In the spring of each year, teams select their representatives for the upcoming year.

Any student is eligible for appointment. All interested students are encouraged to get involved. Carefully consider academic and athletic responsibilities before making the additional commitment to membership on the committee.

1. Attend all committee meetings and activities. 2. If unable to attend, to select a responsible alternate team representative. 3. Represent team views at the committee meeting. Team representative must talk to their teammates about issues or projects that will be discussed at committee meetings. 4. Report to the team and the coach on the committee meetings and distribute the minutes of the meeting. 5. Organize team members to help with special projects such as “Make-A-Wish”. 6. Help plan and set-up Annual Awards Banquet.

At the first meeting each fall, the committee will assign by election or consensus certain responsibilities to committee members: 1. President: Chairs all committee meetings and acts as the official representative of the committee. 2. Vice President: Assists the President and organizes sub-committees. Sub-committee chairpersons reports to Vice President. 3. Secretary: Records the minutes of all meetings. 4. Committee Chairs: Organize committees for special projects. • Bylaw 13.1.1.2 Four-Year College Prospective Student-Athlete: An athletics staff member or other representative of the institution’s athletics interests shall not make contact with the student-athlete of an NCAA collegiate institution, directly or indirectly without first obtaining the written permission of the first institution’s athletics director. If permission is not granted, the second institution shall not encourage the transfer and shall not provide athletically related financial assistance to the student- athlete until the student-athlete has attended the second institution for one academic year.

• Bylaw 14.5.5.1 General Rule: A transfer student from a four-year institution shall not be eligible for intercollegiate competition at a member institution until the student has fulfilled a residence requirement of one full academic year (two full semesters or three full quarters) at the certifying institution.

• Saint Leo University grants one-time transfer exceptions on a case by case basis. A request for permission to contact or the one-time transfer exception must be submitted in writing to the Director of Athletics. If that initial request is denied, a student-athlete may request an appeal through the Special Assistant to the President.

*Please keep in mind that the permission to contact doesn’t mean you have approval for one-time transfer exception.

A student-athlete who transfers from one SSC institution directly to another SSC institution shall not be eligible for intercollegiate competition until that student-athlete has fulfilled a residence requirement of two full academic years (four full semesters or six full quarters) at the certifying institution. Further, a transfer student-athlete admitted after the 12th class cannot utilize that semester or quarter for the purpose of establishing residency. Any combination of collegiate attendance/non-attendance in the interim between transferring from one SSC institution to another must equal the equivalent of two full academic years. All other NCAA and SSC eligibility, satisfactory progress and transfer-rule requirements also must be met in order for the student-athlete to be certified for intercollegiate competition.

There are two different processes to request for permission to contact. During the academic year the student- athlete must inform the Compliance office in person or via e-mail at [email protected] , that they wish to request permission to contact. Once the request is made the Compliance office will assign the Permission to Contact workflow in ARMS to the student-athlete. The student-athlete will be responsible for providing the appropriate information in the workflow. Outside of the academic year or during the institutional vacation period the student-athlete must send a e-mail to the VP/ Director of Athletics via e-mail at [email protected] of their request for permission to contact.

*Please keep in mind that the permission to contact doesn’t mean you have approval for one-time transfer exception.