MAGAZINE SPRING 2011

Massillon Washington senior long jump state champion Devin Smith

Change of Season Calendars and notes to help prepare you for spring sports tournaments, the summer period and the beginning of fall sports

Miracle on the Mat Perrysburg’s Nick Hyndman did not let cerebral palsy stop him from wrestling and becoming a leader Preseason Priority Information and resources to assist with required preseason meetings – and why they are important

Setting the Scene ’s spring state tournament venues are as good as they get – and the competition is even better

2010 Marked the Sixth State Title for the Hillsdale Program

Ohio High School Athletic Association | 4080 Roselea Place, Columbus, OH 43214

The Ohio High School Athletic Association does not seek to prepare student-athletes for the next level of competition, but for the next level of

Huntington Park in Columbus has hosted the OHSAA state tournament since opening in 2009. During that year, it was recognized as the Best New Ballpark by Ball- parkDigest.com and Ballpark of the Year by BaseballParks.com. The 2011 baseball state championships return to Huntington Park June 2-4. life. I n s i d e O H S A A M a g a z i n e

About the OHSAA...... 2 350,000 Note on Summer Regulations...... 2 Student-Athletes From the Commissioner...... 3 Ready Reference Calendar...... 4 OHSAA Allied Organizations...... 4 From the Board President...... 5 1,640 News and Notes...... 10 Member Schools Football Jamboree Update...... 10 Athletic Trainers Update...... 11 Supplements Position Statement ...... 11 sports Miracle on the Mat ...... 12-15 24 Perrysburg High School wrestler Nick Hyndman was once declared “unrestorable.” But cerebral palsy did not stop him from walking, then jogging, then wrestling for PHS. Next up: college. Eligibility Update...... 16 1 Mission Officiating Updates...... 17-18 OHSAA Foundation Update...... 19 OHSAA Magazine is published three times per year by the Ohio High School Medical Update with Dr. Chris Stankovich...... 20 Athletic Association. It is mailed to su- NFHS Sportsmanship Kits...... 20 perintendents, principals and athletic OHSAA Concussion Protocol...... 21 directors of all member schools. An- nual subscriptions may be purchased AD Spotlight...... 21 for $20 and single copies are available OHSAA Districts Map and Financial Update...... 22 for $7 by contacting Brandy Young, Meet the OHSAA’s Corporate Partners...... 23-25 [email protected] or 614-267-2502. Spring Tournament Previews...... 26 On the Cover: Massillon Washington senior Devin Champions...... 27 Smith soars through the air during one of his jumps at the 2010 state track and field championships. Smith tallied a Coming This Fall...... 28 jump of 23 feet, 4 1/2 inches to earn the gold medal in the Div. I long jump. Inset Photo: Jeromesville Hillsdale’s Rhannon Eick follows through during a swing at the 2010 state softball championships. Hillsdale captured its sixth OHSAA Magazine state softball title, tying the Falcons for third all-time. Volume Two, Number Three. Spring 2011

All photos in OHSAA Magazine, unless otherwise credited, are provided by Impact Action Sports Photography, the official 1 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org photographer of OHSAA Championships. Layout and Design by Matt Cooperrider, West-Camp Press, Westerville, OH Created and Edited by Tim Stried, OHSAA Director of Information Services Email comments and suggestions to Tim Stried at [email protected] Printed on a recycled paper OHSAA Mission Mission The Ohio High School Athletic Association’s mission is to regulate and administer interscholastic athletic competition in a fair and equitable manner while promoting the values of participation in interscholastic athletics as an integral part of a student’s educational experience. The OHSAA represents its member schools by recognizing and promoting academics, the safety of participants, good citizenship and lifelong values as the foundation of What may a school coach do with athletes from his/her program during the summer? interscholastic athletics. This period of time is considered the “summer” period during which coaches may have con- tact with student-athletes who participated in their interscholastic programs during the past Commitment school year. Members of a school coaching staff, both paid and volunteer, in team sports The Ohio High School Athletic Association is committed to serving of baseball, , field hockey, football, its member schools by being the nation’s premier non-profit , softball, soccer and volleyball and in the individual sports of cross country, track athletic administration organization. and field and wrestling may have a combined total of 10 days of coaching contact in either instructional programs or non-interscholastic competition programs. We will: May the varsity coach have 10 days of con- • Provide exemplary athletic oversight through swift, fair, consistent tact during the summer in addition to the JV, freshman and volunteer coaches hav- and impartial regulatory rulings; ing their own 10 days? • Operate with openness that generates trust and with strict No. The 10-day provision refers to the com- fiscal accountability; bined efforts of all coaches for that school. It • Provide impartial, responsive and inclusive leadership; is not permissible for each coach to have 10 days with his/her athletes separately. In ad- • Conduct tournaments of nationally recognized excellence; and dition, ALL coaches in public as well as non- • Honor our ultimate purpose, which is to foster lifelong values, good public schools, whether they receive a salary citizenship, ethics and a fair-play approach to life among student-athletes or are volunteers, must be approved by their respective Boards of Education (or other while promoting safe and sporting-like athletic environments. governing board in a non-public school) and must meet all required coaching standards as stipulated by the State Department of Educa- The OHSAA is a member of the National Federation of State High School Associations tion. The only way that a person can work with (NFHS), which consists of the 50 individual state high school athletic and/or student-athletes in an OHSAA member school activities associations and the association of the District of Columbia and 10 Canadian during the interscholastic season is to have organizations. These associations have united to secure the benefits of cooperative action this approval and meet all standards. Thus, and increased efficiency through the coordinating of ideas of all who are engaged in “volunteer” coaches are also accountable high school athletic and activities programs. to the 10-day restriction as well as all other OHSAA bylaws and regulations.

What may a coach do in an open gym? Supervision of open gyms and the conducting of physical fitness programs are not consid- ered as organizational or instructional contact. Thus, this type of activity is not governed by the rules that are specified as “Instructional Program” regulations or Bylaw 10 - Non-Inter- scholastic Teams. However, during an open gym or other facility, either at a member school facility or a non-member facility, coaching staff members may have NO organizational or in- structional contact with participants. Likewise, attendance cannot be mandatory, no scoring or timekeeping is permitted, and the supervi- sor may not participate in designating who is to play on which teams. Note: It is not a viola- tion for the coach or other adult supervisor to participate as a player in an open gym as long as the adult does not coach the students. Also, watching an open gym does not count as one of the 10 contact days. However, a coaching staff member who is either supervising the open facility or has simply shown up to watch must be certain that he or she has not been involved in organizing competition between two schools who just happen to appear at the “open facility.” Racing down the straight-away, runners compete for a state title in the girls 4x400 meter 2 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org relay. Reynoldsburg went on to win the race and the 2010 girls Division I team state championship. The 2011 boys and girls state track & field championships return to Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium at The Ohio State University June 3-4. The Times, They From the Commissioner Are A-Changin’ Prior to becoming the I had to chuckle the other day when I the summer instructional period (June commissioner of the read an email from someone suggest- 1 through July 31), along with the type OHSAA in August 2004, ing that the OHSAA is a stagnant orga- and amount of off-season contact per- Dr. Dan Ross served as a school superin- nization with outdated rules and regula- mitted by our member school coaches. tendent for 21 years at tions. In reality, it is quite the opposite, three districts, including and the proof of that can be found within I consider it a privilege to be a part of Patrick Henry (1983- 86), Pickerington (1986-97) and Avon the votes cast every spring by each of that change. It is rewarding when our Lake (1997-2004). He has more than 30 our member schools. school people not only express appre- years in education, having served as a superintendent, principal, teacher, coun- ciation for being a part of the process selor, coach and official. Dr. Ross is a na- I’m talking about the annual referendum themselves, but also when they thank tive of Portsmouth, Ohio, and graduated voting process, which occurs each May us for enforcing the bylaws and sports from Columbus St. Charles High School in 1967. He received degrees from Ohio and is the culmination of a year-long regulations. It is not always an easy job, Dominican, Xavier and Bowling Green. process of edits, tweaks and improve- but we do so with the intent of doing Dr. Ross was a registered OHSAA ments to our bylaws and constitution. what is best for kids. official for 20 years and was selected to work state finals games five times As one of our Board of Directors mem- in boys basketball and twice in girls bers recently said, it is quite possibly basketball while also being certified in the most important two weeks of the Respectfully, volleyball and baseball. school year. O h saa S ta f f Each member school casts its ballot, Administrative Staff which reflects the school’s line item vote Daniel B. Ross on a list of proposed changes. It is proof Commissioner Daniel Ross, Ph.D., Bob Goldring that the OHSAA is truly an organization Commissioner Associate Commissioner for Operations whose regulations are determined by its Ohio High School Athletic Association Deborah B. Moore membership. Associate Commissioner for Eligibility Steve Neil Assistant Commissioner This spring alone, there were 12 bylaw Roxanne Price issues and three constitution issues on Assistant Commissioner which schools voted. In the last three Jerry Snodgrass Assistant Commissioner years combined, there have been more Henry Zaborniak Jr. than 40 issues. Some of those items are Assistant Commissioner relatively minor, while others, like the Tim Stried Director of Information Services competitive balance proposal that takes a step to address the debate between Ohsaa Support Staff public and non-public schools, could Todd Boehm change the landscape of interscho- Comptroller lastic athletics in Ohio. Molly Downard Executive Administrative Assistant Kerri Hudson I had just entered high school in Administrative Assistant 1964 when I remember Bob Dylan Angie Lawler Administrative Assistant releasing “The Times, They Are a- Renee Moore Changin.” That certainly remains Administrative Assistant true today. Brenda Murray Coordinator of Web Site & Publications Andrea Rossi And the change certainly isn’t Assistant Comptroller slowing down. In the coming Connie Scherpf months, the OHSAA will look at pro- Administrative Assistant Sharon Shoemaker posing changes to the rules governing Administrative Assistant Chris Walker Production Supervisor Brandy Young Receptionist Kim Zaborniak Administrative Assistant OHSAA Calendar OHSAA Ready Reference Sports Dates (Subject to Change) OHSAA Allied

Organizations Spring 2011 1st Scrimmages 1st State Tournament/Site Practice Contest Baseball Mar. 7 4 scrimmages or Mar. 28 June 2-State Semis/Cols. Huntington Park (Div. I & IV) National Federation of State 3 scrimmages/1 (see note below) preview after June 3-State Semis/Cols. Huntington Park (Div. II & III) High School Associations practice begins June 4-State Finals/Cols. Huntington Park (all 4 divs.) P.O. Box 690 Softball Mar. 7 4 scrimmages or Mar. 28 June 2-State Semis/Akron Firestone Stad. (Div. III & II) Indianapolis, IN 46206 3 scrimmages/1 (see note below) preview after June 3-State Semis/Akron Firestone Stad. (Div. I & IV) (317) 937-6900 practice begins June 4-State Finals/Akron Firestone Stad. (all 4 divs.) Fax: (317) 822-5700 Tennis (Boys) Mar. 7 1 scrimmage prior to Mar. 28 May 27/Hilliard Davidson H.S. (1st & 2nd rnds.) www.nfhs.org first match May 28/Hilliard Davidson H.S. (Semis & Finals) Ohio Department Track & Field Mar. 7 None permitted Mar. 26 June 3-4/Ohio State Jesse Owens (Div. III, II, I) of Education Fall 2011 1st Scrimmages 1st State Tournament/Site 25 South Front St. Practice Contest Columbus, OH 43215-4183 None permitted General Information: (614) 995-1545 Cross Country Aug. 1 Aug. 22 Nov. 5-TBA (Girls III/II/I; Boys III/II/I) General Fax: (614) 644-5960 Field Hockey Aug. 1 4 scrimmages or Aug. 27 Nov. 4 - State Semis/Upper Arlington H.S. 3 scrimmages/1 www.ode.state.oh.us preview after Nov. 5 - State Finals/Upper Arlington H.S. practice begins

Ohio School Football Aug. 1 2 scrimmages or 1 Aug. 22 Nov. 4 - Reg. Quarterfinals (Div. II, III, V) scrimmage/1 preview Nov. 5 - Reg. Quarterfinals (Div. I, IV, VI) Boards Association plus 1 Jamboree game between Nov. 11 - Reg. Semifinals (Div. II, III, V) 8050 North High St., Suite 100 August 9-August 20 Nov. 12 - Reg. Semifinals (Div. I, IV, VI) Columbus, OH 43235-6482 Nov. 18 - Reg. Finals (Div. II, III, V) 1-800-589-6722 Nov. 19 - Reg. Finals (Div. I, IV, VI) Nov. 25 - State Semis (Div. II, III, V) Fax: (614) 540-4100 Nov. 26 - State Semis (Div. I, IV, VI) www.osba-ohio.org Dec. 2 - State Finals (Div. V-Massillon; Div. III-Canton; Div. II-Massillon) Buckeye Association of Dec. 3 - State Finals (Div. VI-Canton; Div. IV-Massillon; School Administrators Div. I-Canton Golf Aug. 1 1 scrimmage any Aug. 5 Oct. 14-15 (BII, BIII, GII/OSU & NorthStar, Sunbury) 8050 North High St., Suite 150 time during season Oct. 21-22 (BI & GI/Ohio State) Columbus, OH 43235-6486 Soccer Aug. 1 4 scrimmages or Aug. 20 Nov. 8-9-State Semis (B-8th; G-9th)/Sites TBA (614) 846-4080 3 scrimmages/1 Fax: (614) 846-4081 preview after Nov. 11-State Finals/ Stadium, (Boys practice begins Div. III, II, I) www.basa-ohio.org Nov. 12-State Finals/Columbus Crew Stadium, (Girls Div. III, II, I) Ohio Association of Secondary Tennis (Girls) Aug. 1 1 scrimmage prior Aug. 15 Oct. 21/Site TBA (1st and 2nd rds.) to first match School Administrators Oct. 22/Site TBA (Semis & Finals) 8050 North High St., Suite 180 Volleyball Aug. 1 4 scrimmages or Aug. 27 Nov. 10-State Semis/Wright St. Nutter Ctr. (Div. III & II) Columbus, OH 43235-6484 3 scrimmages/1 preview after Nov. 11-State Semis/Wright St. Nutter Ctr. (Div. I & IV) (614) 430-8311 practice begins Nov. 12-State Finals/Wright St. Nutter Ctr. (all 4 divs.) Fax: (614) 430-8315 www.oassa.org Winter 2012 1st Scrimmages 1st State Tournament/Site Practice Contest Ohio Middle Basketball Nov. 4 5 scrimmages plus Dec. 2 Mar. 22-State Semis/Ohio State Value City Arena - 1 preview after Level Association (Boys) practice begins (Div. IV & III) (OHSAA Foundation Mar. 23-State Semis/Ohio State Value City Arena - (740) 548-6156 Game may replace (Div. II & I) 1 scrimmage) www.ohiomla.org Mar. 24-State Finals/OSU Value City Arena (all 4 divs.) Basketball Oct. 28 5 scrimmages plus Nov. 25 Mar. 15-State Semis/Ohio State Value City Arena - Ohio Association of 1 preview after (Girls) practice begins Div. IV & III) Elementary School (OHSAA Foundation Mar. 16-State Semis/Ohio State Value City Arena - Game may replace Div. II & I) Administrators 1 scrimmage) Mar. 17-State Finals/Ohio State Value City Arena - 900 Club Dr., Suite A all 4 Div.) Westerville, OH 43081 Bowling Nov. 11 2 scrimmages after Nov. 18 Mar. 2-Boys/Wayne Webb’s Bowling, Columbus practice begins (614) 794-9191 Mar. 3-Girls/Wayne Webb’s Bowling, Columbus Gymnastics Nov. 4 None Permitted Dec. 5 Mar. 2-Team/Hilliard Bradley HS Mar. 3-Individual & AA/Hilliard Bradley HS Ice Hockey Nov. 4 4 scrimmages or 3 Nov. 25 Mar. 10-State Semis/Nationwide Arena, Columbus scrimmages/1 preview after practice begins Mar. 11-State Final/Nationwide Arena, Columbus

Swimming/ Nov. 4 None Permitted Nov. 28 Feb. 22-25-C.T. Branin Natatorium, Canton Diving 4 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Wrestling Nov. 11 4 scrimmages or 3 Dec. 2 Mar. 1-3-Ohio State Value City Arena scrimmages/1 preview after season begins

NOTE: Baseball and softball pitchers & catchers may begin practice on Feb. 21. Thank You for From the President Putting School Sports First OHSAA When you get right down to it, you and I are not that much different. Board of Directors Even if I have never met you, I know that much is true. Dave Gray, Board President If you are taking time to read OHSAA Magazine, I know that we share Superintendent, Franklin Monroe Local Schools, Pitsburg (Class A several things in common already. School sports are important to you. Representative, Southwest District) You want to do what is best – and what is right – for young people. You know that the lessons learned from school sports are far more important than the wins and losses. Steve Keller, Board Vice President Principal, Coldwater High School And I want to thank you for that, because I fear that too few people these days share (Class AA Representative, our philosophy. Sportsmanship, ethics and the life lessons taught by school sports Northwest District) are the messages that we all need to carry forward every day. Without question, kids will learn from the examples we set. John Ault, Athletic Administrator, Beloit West Branch High School No matter what part of the state you call home, that much is true. I am reminded of (Class AA Representative, Northeast District) that fact every time I leave my home in Darke County in southwest Ohio to head to an OHSAA meeting or tournament game. We are all different, but we can all share the stage as leaders and role models in interscholastic athletics. Tom Farbizo, Athletic Administrator, New Philadelphia High School (Class AAA Representative, East District) Long before any of us were involved with school sports, the philosopher Plato had it right when he said, “you can discover more about a person in an hour of play than Jose Hernandez, Principal, Fremont in a year of conversation.” Ross High School (Ethnic Minority Representative) As spring turns to summer and I conclude my time as president of the OHSAA Board of Directors, there are so many people to thank for the roles they played in creat- Tony Mantell, Superintendent, Clay ing another successful school year. It has truly been an honor to serve as president Local Schools, Portsmouth (Class and play a part in creating the framework for how school sports can best serve its A Representative, Southeast District) purpose. Jenny Penn, Athletic Administrator, As summer arrives, it signals the end of another Latham Western High School (Female Representative) school year and another sports season, but our eyes are always focused on what lies ahead next year. Let’s all work together to ensure that kids get as much Mike Rotonda, Director of Student Activities, Columbus City Schools as possible out of their seasons in every facet of the (Class AAA Representative, Central game. Kids are kids only once, but the foundation we District) help them build as kids can last a lifetime. Steve Zimmerman, Athletic The happiest people don’t necessarily have Administrator, Nagel Middle School, the best of everything. They just make the Cincinnati (7th-8th Grade best of everything. Representative)

Matt Shomper, Athletic Administrator, Sincerely, Tipp City Tippecanoe High School (ex-officio, Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association representative)

Jeff Jordan, Director of Finance Program Services, Ohio Department Dave Gray, President of Education (ex-officio, State OHSAA Board of Directors Department of Education Representative)

95 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org

Track & Field

Runner’s High Championships aren’t the only thing to be celebrated at OHSAA State Tournaments. In 2010, Lebanon junior runner Jade Kin- ney enjoys a moment after quali- fying for the girls Division I 400 meter final. During the course of the two-day event, 1,900 athletes competed in three divisions for boys and girls, with over 25,000 spectators in attendance to root for their school. The boys and girls track & field championships return to Jesse Owens Memorial Stadium at The Ohio State Uni- versity June 3-4.

Softball

Three-Peat Worth Watching Hebron Lakewood won its third straight softball state championship last year in front of a capacity crowd in Akron’s Firestone Stadium. In a well-pitched game by both teams, the Lancers hit an early home run by then- freshman Kelsi Thompson to defeat Poland Semi- nary 1-0 to claim the title. Lakewood became only the fourth school to win three consecutive softball titles. The 2011 softball cham- pionships return to Akron June 2-4. News & Notes News and Notes

ootball arty OHSAA to Begin Enforcement in the United States. In addition, the NFHS has A F P Two Key Areas developed a “tool kit” to assist schools in re- quiring or encouraging parents to complete for a Great Cause The OHSAA is studying enforcement in two “The Role of the Parent in Sport” free online specific areas that are required of member Football Jamborees provide schools and com- course developed in conjunction with the In- schools, but that have not been routinely munities a chance to get an early start on foot- stitute for the Study of Youth Sport at Michi- monitored by the OHSAA in the past. The ball festivities gan State University. Instructions for access- first is in the area of mandatory preseason ing the “tool kit” were distributed to 1,600 The OHSAA Catastrophic Insurance meetings, while the second is in the area of athletic administrators at the National Ath- Fund insures member school student- the Pupil Activity Permit, which is required letic Directors Conference in Orlando. Those athletes every year in the case that a by the Ohio Department of Education for instructions will be distributed through all of catastrophic injury occurs. The annual in- all coaches – both paid and volunteer. Stay the NFHS distribution channels this month. surance premium covered by the OHSAA tuned to OHSAA.org and OHSAA Magazine The “tool kit” includes: is approximately $700,000, with no charge for updates and possible penalties for non- of any kind to its member schools. compliance. • an outline of the course to distribute to parents, Start Date Reminder for Fall Sports The Football Jamboree helps the OHSAA • ideas to promote the course to parents, offset a portion of that cost, while pro- Member schools are reminded that practice • directions for parents to register and ac- moting the school and community. Each may begin for all 2011 fall sports on Monday, cess the course, school that participates in a Football Jam- August 1. In the past, there were varying • 10-question parent/athlete assessment boree may charge admission and must start dates for fall sports. Member schools quiz, and contribute $250 that goes directly into the sponsoring football are also reminded of the • 30-second video that can be shown at catastrophic insurance fund. five-day acclimatization period regarding preseason parent meetings to direct par- contact and equipment. ents to the course. “The Jamboree festivities and contest are a great way for schools to raise mon- Pair of Rulings Highlight April NFHS Coaching Today Unveiled Board Meeting ey for their athletic departments while The new online publication for high school contributing a small portion of money A pair of rulings highlighted the OHSAA coaches – NFHS Coaching Today – offi- raised to aid the statewide catastrophic Board of Directors’ April meeting. First, the cially launched February 1. NFHS Coach- insurance fund,” said Henry Zaborn- Board unanimously denied a proposal from ing Today can be accessed from www.nfhs. iak, OHSAA Assistant Commissioner in the football coaches association to allow a org – as well as from the home page of the charge of football. two-week period of skill instruction in May, NFHS coach education site – www.nfhslearn. citing concerns over the impact it would com. The direct link is www.nfhs.org/Coach- The Football Jamboree is sanctioned by have on other spring sports, as well as the ingToday/. the OHSAA as an opportunity for schools requests that would come from other sports. This replaces the NFHS Coaches’ Quarterly, to host a third preseason football contest However, Commissioner Dan Ross and which is no longer being printed. Material on filled with fun, friends, food and foot- Board President Dave Gray indicated that the site will be changed regularly, with new ball with communities supporting their the OHSAA will examine the possibility of features and department articles being post- teams, all while helping support educa- expanding the 10 days of coaching that are ed each month. The NFHS Coaching Today tional athletics across the state of Ohio. currently permitted during the summer pe- Publications Committee is responsible for In 2010, schools participating in a riod (June 1 to July 31) in all team sports. Football Jamboree contributed around approving all editorial material. Second, the Board approved a proposal $70,750 to the OHSAA catastrophic in- Coaching Sports in Middle School from the soccer coaches association to ex- surance fund for all member schools. Course Announced pand the girls’ soccer tournament to three divisions beginning this coming fall. The NFHS is pleased to announce the launch of the online course “Coaching Sports A reminder that immediately following every in Middle School.” Developed in conjunction Board of Directors meeting, a list of highlights with the National Middle School Association is posted at OHSAA.org. The complete list of (NMSA) and with the input and assistance meeting minutes is then posted at OHSAA. from the Illinois Elementary School Asso- org within a couple weeks of the meeting. ciation, the goal of the course is to provide NFHS Coach Education/ middle school coaches and administrators Certification Update coach education that recognizes that middle school sports should be developmentally The National Federation of State High appropriate. The course will cost $20 and be School Associations (NFHS) announced in available on www.nfhslearn.com. March that more than 130,000 online con- cussion courses have been taken by coach- es, officials, parents and others throughout

Gahanna Columbus Academy’s senior Eoghan Bahnson and then-sophomore Langston Hughes teamed 10 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org up to make it to the 2010 Division II doubles state championship match. Bahnson and Hughes would finish as runners-up in the finals to fellow Vikings’ teammates Andrew Enslen and Chad Buchanan. The 2011 boys state tennis tournaments will be played at Hilliard Davidson High School May 27-28. Certified Athletic Sports Medicine Trainers are a Key Member of very thletic epartment E A D NFHS Position The national participation statistics for high school athletics continue to Statement on rise with more than 7.6 million student-athletes participating in the 2009- 2010 school year, according to the National Federation of State High Supplements School Associations. Approximately two million injuries are suffered an- nually by high school athletes. The inevitable question posed by parents, In September 2009, the National Feder- athletes, coaches and administrators should be, “Who is taking care of ation of State High School Associations my child in the event that he/she is injured?” (NFHS) published a position statement on supplements from its Sports Medi- cine Advisory Committee (SMAC), which The ideal answer is, “A licensed athletic trainer.” The American Medical Association rec- strongly opposes the use of dietary ognized and addressed this need in 1998 with the proclamation that “emphasis should be supplements for the purpose of athletic given to ensuring the health, safety, and well-being of participants in high school athletics… advantage. (and that) appropriate measures to ensure funding to provide the services of a certified ath- letic trainer…” to accommodate that need. However, a recent four-month national review by The committee identified three common Scripps Howard News Service, found that only about one in three high schools employ the MYTHS regarding dietary supplements: services of a full-time certified athletic trainer. That means that the approximately 6,400 ath- letic trainers working in secondary schools cannot provide for the nearly 18,400 private and • If a substance is natural, it must be public schools that sponsor interscholastic sports. safe and beneficial. • Athletes who consume a well-bal- This creates a void in quality healthcare for a higher percentage of the sports participants. anced diet still have nutritional defi- Some schools fill this void with part-time athletic trainers, certified first responders, coaches ciencies. trained in first aid, nurses, EMTs and team physicians, most of which are utilized for game- • Since dietary supplements may be coverage only. This practice contradicts the statistics that show athletes are two or three purchased at a store or over the in- times more likely to sustain an injury during practice and conditioning than in competition. ternet, they must be safe and legal.

Although multiple professionals Because of a lack of scientific research are accessible to the high num- addressing the benefits and possible ber of participating high school long-term health effects of supplements, athletes, the licensed athletic particularly in the adolescent age group, trainer provides the best option the NFHS SMAC discourages the use of for continuity of care within the supplements. Many of the substances that school system. The athletic train- can be obtained from nutrition stores and er can also address the need to the internet are not subject to the same establish, and to follow, an emer- strict tests and regulations as prescrip- gency action plan that spells out tion medications by virtue of the Food who is responsible for the differ- and Drug Administration (FDA) remov- ent components of various in- ing dietary supplements from pre-market jury scenarios so that otherwise regulation in 1994. minor injuries are not clogging emergency rooms and physician School personnel and coaches should The offensive line of Huber Heights Wayne and the defensive line of Lakewood St. Edward do battle in the 2010 Division I state championship offices. This distinction solidifies not recommend, endorse or encourage game at Canton Fawcett Stadium. St. Edward came back from a 14-point the need for continued efforts to the use of any dietary supplement, drug second-half deficit to claim the Eagles’ first state title in a 35-28 victory. employ full-time athletic trainers in all or medication for performance enhance- of the secondary schools in Ohio. ment. Student-athletes should be en- couraged to pursue their goals through

hard work and good nutrition, not dietary shortcuts.

Jake Graham of Columbus Grove, Maurice Kirksey of Louisville St. Thomas 11 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Aquinas and Craig McLaughlin of Galion Northmor attempt to separate from the pack at the 2010 state cross country meet at Scioto Downs Race Track in Columbus. Miracle on the Mat

12 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Perrysburg Teen Goes to the Mat to Achieve a Life Well-lived Cerebral palsy no match for Perrysburg wrestler

By Dave Hackenberg, Toledo Blade Sports Writer Reprinted with permission of The Blade, 2010. This story initially appeared in the Blade on Feb. 4, 2010. An update appears in the sidebar on page 14 of this issue of OHSAA Magazine.

Nick Hyndman was only 5 months old when his mother, Amy, it about 8 feet before crumbling to the floor. opened a letter from an insurance company informing her that the company would not cover her son’s therapy. During the next eight years, he’d often repeat the feat while wearing leg braces. But there was always a limit. Eight feet, Nick, the letter said, was “nonrestorable.” maybe 10, maybe 12. The rest of the time he was in his wheelchair, or crawling. That was the case as recently as Now there’s an interesting term. Nonrestorable. How shame- November. ful. Imagine it being used to describe one of your kids. A hu- man life, non restorable, like a shattered antique vase. Today Nick walks around the indoor track on the upper level of Perrysburg High’s gym. Once, twice, three times without Less than a week after Amy and husband, Greg, welcomed falling, without assistance, without braces. His dad told him their beautiful, healthy baby boy, he experienced a medical the best way to endear himself to his teammates was to try to emergency that left him with brain damage. Four months do what they do. So when the Yellow Jacket wrestlers go for later, he was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and doctors sug- a run, Nick walks. The first time his dad witnessed this, and gested he might never sit up, might never walk, and would he chokes up telling the story, “all the guys were finished, but likely suffer cognitive delays, which is a polite term for mental they waited for Nick and cheered him in. There were a lot of retardation. high fives.”

Nonrestorable. Never walk? Ah, child’s play. A couple weeks ago, when his grandpa was at practice, Nick actually jogged for a stretch. Well, the insurance executive who wrote and signed that let- ter should be sentenced to 10 minutes on a Perrysburg High “It was amazing,” Jim Jagel said. School wrestling mat with Nick, now 16 years old. He should walk the track with him. Listen to some of the music he’s writ- What has taken place in the last two months, a miracle? ten. Read his compositions and poems. Go with him to class; Well, the miracle of the mats, perhaps. regular, mainstream classes, by the way, the only kind he’s “I was so used to looking down at Nick in his wheelchair,” his ever attended. Go ziplining with him, from tree to tree, down grandfather said. “Now I look up at him.” in the Hocking Hills. Help him make his college plans. In more ways than one. And grandpa is not alone. Nonrestorable. There are an awful lot of words in Nick’s vo- cabulary. That isn’t one of them. How do you tell a kid you love with all your heart that he isn’t normal, that his disorder will be a forever thing and will Nick Hyndman can’t walk on water. At least he hasn’t yet. But always make him different, that children who don’t know any he’s walking. Who knows what’s next? better will gawk and say mean things and won’t want to play with him? Nick has serious issues. Technically, he is a quadriplegic since the disorder affects all four limbs. He has suffered pro- “Nick was in the first grade,” Amy Hyndman recalled. “He gressive hearing loss. His speech is articulate beyond his came home one day and wanted to know why nobody could years, but sometimes difficult to understand. Growth spurts understand him, why he couldn’t run, couldn’t play. He was can create orthopedic setbacks because his muscles have crying. I was crying. But I felt I had to be honest with him, no memory. He is often, if not always, in pain because of to have a frank conversation despite his age. I couldn’t just nerve damage in some extremities. say, ‘Maybe someday, sweetie.’ I told him his cerebral pal- sy wasn’t going to go away. I told him he had to focus on An expert on his disorder once told Amy that Nick always the things he could do and understand there are things he feels the way a healthy person might feel after running a won’t be able to do. Once you tell him he can’t do something, marathon because of the stress any type of physical activity though, there is a new determination. It started that day.” places on his muscles. Last fall, Nick decided to live the dream. He informed his On Thanksgiving Day, 2001, young Nick enjoyed a family family, including 10-year-old sister Isabella, that he was try- dinner at the home of his maternal grandparents, Jim and ing out for Perrysburg High’s wrestling team. Pat Jagel. Out of the blue, for the first time in his life, he pushed himself to his feet and walked unassisted. He made Matt Boggs was set to start his fifth year as the Yellow Jack-

continued on page 15 Update from Perrysburg - Nick’s Senior Year The story by Dave Hackenberg that appeared in The Blade in February 2010 told of Nick Hyndman’s journey and development from a newborn to a junior in high school. Nick’s senior year at Perrysburg High School has been an amazing next chapter in the “Miracle on the Mat” story. And the complete story is really just beginning.

As Nick prepares for graduation from Perrysburg and enrollment at Bowl- ing Green State, he can look back at his senior season of wrestling at PHS as a dream come true.

“Since sixth grade, I’ve had this dream about playing a sport for my school,” Hyndman said. “I [said] if I achieve this, look at what I’m rep- resenting – myself, my school, and everyone out there with a physical disability that has that dream of becoming a part of something nobody thought they could ever be.”

It was not long ago when Nick was told he would never walk. This past winter, though, he walked onto the mat, leading his team for Senior Night introductions.

“Wrestling is providing him an opportunity to participate in athletics, be a part of a team, make new friends, and learn the value of setting goals and working hard to achieve them,” said Matt Boggs, the head wrestling coach at Perrysburg. “Wrestling is, quite simply, the only physically com- petitive sport that groups everyone together and allows them to be an individual regardless of gender or physical ailment. It is my pleasure to be a coach that is helping a young man achieve one of his dreams.”

Being a part of the Perrysburg wrestling team has given Nick much more than wrestling skills. He has formed bonds with his teammates and classmates.

“Even the kids in his classes talk to him more since this all started last year,” said Greg and Amy Hyndman, Nick’s parents. “People actually look at him and talk to him, which they didn’t do before. This whole experience has been so much more than a sport to Nick. The coaches have been open-minded from day one and the boys have, too. We are grateful for everyone’s support and kindness. We’ll never forget it!”

Nick will also never forget the mat burns, blisters and sore muscles that are a result of wrestling, but he loved every one of them.

“Pain gives me appreciation for my life, gives me strength, and gives me the sense of accomplishment,” Hyndman said. “Instead of asking ques- tions all the time, I’ve learned to accept myself and just live my life. Pain is a small word that has changed me in a big way.”

14 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org ets’ head wrestling coach when word came ing to figure out how not to get pinned.” n ick s ords that a kid with cerebral palsy who navigated I N ’ W ... the hallways in a specially modified Segway But consider this. His first match lasted less Facebook Entry Highlights and with an assistance dog, a black lab- than 15 seconds. His last went two minutes, retriever mix named Charger, and who had 20 seconds. “He’s getting so much better,” Nov. 10, 2010 no wrestling experience, was coming out for said sister Bella, his No. 1 fan. “I’m so proud “I’m no longer going to complain about the team in his junior year. of him.” being in pain. I have nothing to lose, just everything to gain.” Boggs might have attempted to throw up road- Nick says he doesn’t like losing, but knows blocks. Instead, he opened his arms wide. this is “the biggest physical challenge I’ve ever had. Wrestling is tough. There’s a lot Nov. 13, 2010 “It was new territory for me, but I know there of pain. But you have to push through it with “From now to the end, I will find a are kids around the state wrestling with toughness. I get support and encourage- balance between doing what I have to prosthetic limbs,” Boggs said. “You always ment from my teammates. I’m going against do to get the win and just enjoying the leave the door open for something special kids who have wrestled for years. So I ap- fact that I’ve been graced to be a part like this.” preciate just being out there. “This might of something real.” be the strangest thing you’ll ever hear, but Boggs talked to the Hyndmans to learn I like the fact I have to go through the pain. Nov. 24, 2010 more about Nick’s condition. He did re- It gives me more of an appreciation for life. search on the Internet. He read about us- When I survive the pain, I feel like I can sur- “Had a good practice this morning and ing a medicine ball for strength training. He vive anything.” felt so good that I walked a mile with found methods to teach the sport to some- my dad after.” one in Nick’s situation, someone who would Yes, the weakest among us can become always start on his knees. He concerned him- the strongest. Jan. 24, 2011 self with teaching Nick how to defend himself “Thursday will be my last home meet in an aggressive sport. “This is more than wrestling, you know,” ever. Right now, it seems like it will be said his teammate Josh Jordan. “I think it bittersweet. It’s against our rival, Mau- “We started his conditioning by having him has changed everything. He’s made a lot mee, and it’ll be senior night. Looking walk leaning on the [padded] walls,” Boggs of friends. Everyone knows who he is now. forward to going out there one last said. “When we ran, he’d use a manual You see him in the halls and he’s always time in front of the home crowd. Just wheelchair to do his laps. After he burned smiling, saying hi to everybody.” through his first set of gloves, always catch- gonna embrace every moment I spend ing his fingers in the spokes because he So that’s the ending. It’s about life. with my team from now to the end.” was trying to go so fast, nobody questioned his desire. His physical strength in the up- Nick Hyndman has one. Jan. 27, 2011 per body is mind-boggling. And the kids “Senior night was amazing. Proud love him. He’s a tremendous inspiration.” A life, fully restored. of my team! I got to lead my team out and wrestle during our awesome Pat Jagel, Nick’s grandmother, calls Boggs warm-up. But the best part was my “a hero, an educator in the truest sense. family there to support me just like Nick has tried to do things in the past and they always have. I want to thank Per- people weren’t always open to it. They saw rysburg for giving me the opportunities problems. Coach Boggs sees possibilities.” that I have had and for the applause Nick’s first match was against Maumee, the and compliments. Will never forget Yellow Jackets’ biggest rival. It was over the memories at home. I have not one quickly and Nick crawled on his knees to the regret. Thanks everyone!” corner of the mat to shake hands with the opposing coach as wrestling protocol dic- Feb. 12, 2011 tates. When he arrived at the coach’s feet, “It feels good to be a league cham- Nick lifted himself and stood straight up un- pion! All the pain and exhaustion, this assisted. The Maumee coach grabbed him is what it was for! Can’t ever explain and bear hugged him. how proud I am to be a part of this “We put Nick on the mats and taught him team and how much being on this team the basics, and he’s really come a long has changed my life! Can’t ever thank way,” said Josh Jordan, a senior captain for everyone enough for allowing me to be Perrysburg. “He came out in a wheelchair a part of it!” at first, now he’s up jogging with us before practice. “It inspires all of us.”

The perfect ending to this story is Nick win- ning a match, the fans rushing the floor, and teammates lifting him onto their shoulders. 15 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org It hasn’t happened. Yet. Nick is 0-5 in JV matches at 135 pounds and says, “I’m try- Eligibility Update Getting the Season Started Right Preseason meetings with coaches, administrators, student-athletes and their par- Deborah Moore ents are an essential part of a successful season. More than that – they are required Dr. Deborah Moore by OHSAA bylaw 3-1-4, which reads: joined the OHSAA as an assistant commis- No later than two weeks prior to the beginning of each sports season, the princi- sioner in June of 1989 and was promoted to pal, through his/her athletic administrator, coaches and such other personnel as Associate Commission- deemed advisable by said principal, shall conduct a mandatory, preseason program er for Eligibility in August of 2008. A na- with all student-athletes who wish to participate in the upcoming sports seasons, tive of Newark, Ohio, she owns degrees their parents and booster club officers. The meeting shall consist of (a) a review of from Kent State and Ohio State and spent 15 years as a teacher and profes- the student-eligibility bulletin and key essential eligibility requirements; (b) a review sor before joining the OHSAA. Dr. Moore of the school’s Athletic Code of Conduct; (c) a sportsmanship, ethics and integrity also serves as the OHSAA’s administra- component; (d) concussions and steroids. tor for the sports of field hockey, volley- ball, swimming & diving and gymnastics. The OHSAA and National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) have several resources available to assist member schools with their preseason Roxanne Price meetings.

After 20 years in inter- collegiate athletics, From the OHSAA Roxanne Price came to the OHSAA in Feb- At www.OHSAA.org, go to the Member Schools page (http://www.ohsaa.org/mem- ruary of 2006 and was bers/default.asp) and scroll down to the “Preseason Information” section. Informa- promoted to assistant tion can be found there for the preseason DVD and a commissioner in August PDF document containing sample meeting scripts and of 2007. After graduat- ing from Fremont Ross High School and agendas, a sample student participant contract, a sample Ohio State, she worked at the Univer- evaluation form and a sample meeting invitation. sity of Virginia, Akron, Ohio State and Note: a new DVD will be sent to all member schools this spring. Columbus State in the areas of student support services and athletics admin- istration. The author of three children’s From the NFHS books, Roxanne oversees the sports of tennis, bowling and softball in addition to Go to: http://www.nfhslearn.com/lockerroom.aspx. Click the OHSAA’s sportsmanship program. on the locker on the right side of the page marked “More Great Stuff” and look for the section labeled Presentation Toolkits. There are two links there for “The Role of the Parent in Sports” program, which is ideal for preseason meetings.

Students from OHSAA member schools had a big part in the preseason DVD.

16 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Mentor Lake Catholic senior Bridget Grdina goes above the net in helping lead the Cougars to their first volleyball state championship in school history. Lake Catholic made it back to the Division II championship game after finishing as runner-up in 2009. The volleyball state championships return to the Nutter Center in 2011, hosted by Wright State University in Fairborn. Officials Ejection Reports Going Online Officiating Update

In the unfortunate situation that a stu- principal/athletic director no later than OHSAA’s Henry Zaborniak dent-athlete or coach’s conduct results the first school day following the ejec- Inducted into Ohio in an ejection from a contest, officials tion. An official failing to follow the Basketball Hall of Fame are required to submit an ejection re- ejection protocol and/or failing to file port to the OHSAA. New for 2011-12 the official’s report may be penalized OHSAA Assistant Com- is the opportunity for officials to submit in accordance with Section VIII of the missioner Henry Zabor- niak Jr. will enter the the report online. The OHSAA will then OHSAA’s Handbook for Officials. Ohio Basketball Hall of email the form to the school, along with Fame during ceremo- a school response form. The “Official’s Report” form may also be nies on May 21, 2011, used to report good or poor sportsman- at the Columbus Con- vention Center. Zabor- The official’s report form is located at ship, severe injuries, facility problems niak oversees the OHSAA’s entire offi- www.ohsaa.org/officials/sptsmnshp/ or equipment problems. Please use ciating program and also serves as the ejections.htm. The report shall be filed only one form per school. Unless done OHSAA’s administrator for two of its larg- with the OHSAA within two business online, it is the official’s responsibility to est sports – football and wrestling. days of the ejection. contact the school by phone and then Zaborniak is one of 19 individuals and send (email, fax or mail) the forms to the six teams to enter the hall of fame this When an ejection occurs, the ejecting OHSAA via email. year. He is a Big Ten Conference football official shall speak with the offender’s official and has been a Division I football official since 1990. Zaborniak was a high school and collegiate basketball official Ejection Totals – Last Three School Year Totals from 1975-92 and has returned to offici- ate at the high school level. Sport 2009-10 2008-09 2007-08 Zaborniak joined the OHSAA in 1989 Golf 0 0 0 and was promoted to assistant commis- Cross Country 0 0 0 sioner in 1995. An officiating clinician Field Hockey 0 0 1 and presenter around the country, he is a Volleyball 5 1 5 member of the Rules Committee for the National Federation of State High School Boys Soccer 211 176 206 Associations (NFHS). Girls Soccer 52 38 35 Football 175 182 167 For more information about the hall of fame, Boys Basketball 120 113 122 visit www.ohiobasketballhalloffame.com. Girls Basketball 33 38 42 Swimming & Diving 0 0 5 OHSAA Directors of Gymnastics 0 0 0 fficiating evelopment Ice Hockey 46 97 55 O D Wrestling 65 63 59 Baseball 156 158 188 Baseball - Kyle McNeely Softball 18 24 25 Track & Field 1 3 1 Basketball - Dennis Morris Field Hockey - Bill Gardiner Football - Bruce Maurer

Gymnastics - Lori Powers-Basinger Ice Hockey - Gary Wilkins Soccer - Don Muenz Softball - Jerry Fick Swimming & Diving - Ken Gipe Track & Field - Dale Gabor Volleyball - Diane Plas Wrestling - Jim Vreeland

17 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Officiating Spotlight The End of an Era 2011 OHSAA Swimming and Diving State Tournament the Final for Sterling Apthorp

By David White, OHSAA Foundation Intern The Six Elements In 1973, Richard Nixon was the Presi- Todd Grant, the Central District Tourna- for an Official dent of the United States, renowned ment Director, elaborated on the signifi- Olympian swimmer Michael Phelps cance of Sterling’s experience. to Receive a would not be born for 12 more years, and ournament Sterling Apthorp, unofficially the first and “He knows everything about swimming T foremost OHSAA swimming and diving and diving,” said Grant. “He is a great Assignment liaison, began his first year officiating. resource and if something goes wrong, With his vast experience in, his passion- Sterling never panics and always 1. Tournament votes cast by athletic ate love for, and his consummate knowl- makes the correct decision. The sense administrators in the myOHSAA system. edge of the sport of swimming and div- of stability and security that he brings is 2. Rating completed by either ing, Sterling Apthorp has seen it all. something that cannot be learned.” coaches or athletic administrators in the myOHSAA system. Beyond being an avid fan of swim- Above his exceptional service to swim- 3. Votes cast by OHSAA District Athletic ming, a swimmer himself, and a coach ming and diving, he is an even more Board members. of swimming, Sterling has been with exceptional man. Seiple made a point the swimming and diving community to acknowledge Sterling as, “flat out 4. Votes cast by assignors. for nearly his entire life. He is a vet- awesome. He is, simply put, the kind 5. Votes cast by local officials associations. eran swimming and diving official who of person that you want to surround 6. Input from OHSAA administrators. has worked at all levels of the OHSAA yourself with.” tournaments, is the OHSAA state rules A ranking system (rating multiplied by interpreter in swimming and diving, and is Ken Gapsch, a Central District tourna- number of votes received) then leads to a limited number of officials receiving the OHSAA’s assistant state tournament ment official with over 30 years of ex- tournament applications. From the list of manager to name a few of his duties. perience, summed up his feelings, as applicants, District Athletic Boards deter- well as the other members of the Cen- mine sectional and district assignments, Unfortunately for the swimming and div- tral District tournament committee, about while OHSAA Assistant Commissioner Henry Zaborniak coordinates regional ing community, his great years of ser- working next year without Sterling in five and state assignments. vice are coming to an end. It is impor- simple words: “We will greatly miss him.” tant to acknowledge not only the hard Of note, the OHSAA’s Directors of Offi- ciating Development do not play a part work, but also the variety of work that It is safe to say that the swimming and in determining tournament assignments Sterling has undertaken for the past 38 diving community will no longer be the for officials. years. same after Sterling Apthorp gracefully and proudly walked away from C.T. Bra- Sam Seiple, the Canton City Schools nin Natatorium this year. Aquatics Director, mentioned three things when asked what Sterling brought to the swimming and diving community, “Knowledge, experience, and stabil- Sterling Apthorp ity,” Seiple said.

Having 38 years of experience has proved to his colleagues to be irreplaceable. “His unwavering knowledge of the sport creates a sense of stabil- ity that makes everyone around him comfortable,” noted Seiple.

Sterling Apthorp with 18 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org OHSAA Associate Commissioner Dr. Deborah Moore A Foundation of Leadership Foundation Update OHSAA Foundation conducts six leadership conferences around the state

Kim Combs Each year the OHSAA Foundation sponsors leadership conferences in each of the OHSAA’s six athletic districts around the state. The conferences are free to member After being involved with schools and are open to sophomore and junior student-athletes who are chosen by the OHSAA for three their coaches and administrators as individuals who possess characteristics of a years in the areas of sponsorship, market- leader. These all-day sessions address leadership, teamwork, sportsmanship, role- ing, hotel partnerships modeling and citizenship. and the annual Basket- ball FanFest, Kim Combs was named The mission of the OHSAA Foundation is to provide scholarship, leadership and Executive Director of the OHSAA Foun- dation in January of 2010. Combs works service opportunities for Ohio student-athletes and all funds raised are used to fulfill directly with the Foundation’s service this mission. week initiatives, web site and newsletter correspondence and the six leadership Past featured speakers have included Jim Foster, Tom Hamilton, Bill Hosket, Clark conferences, which promote leadership, citizenship, sportsmanship and service Kellogg, Thad Matta, Anthony Munoz, Gene Smith, Katie Smith, Ron Stokes, Toni and are attended by over 750 student- Roesch and many others. athletes around the state each spring. The Grove City native is a graduate of Photos by Terry Gilliam The Ohio State University, has worked for the Columbus Sports Commission and owns her own consulting company, KNC Solutions, which provides support for non-profit sports and charity events.

The Five W’s of Interscholastic Athletics

Who? We’re educational athletics, not big-time event promoters.

What? We’re the builders of tomorrow’s com- munity leaders, not farm clubs for college and professional teams.

When? We’re an after-school activity, not a year- round endeavor. These are programs that should allow kids to be kids.

Where? Our games should be played locally. There’s plenty of healthy competition where kids can learn and grow through athletics in most of our backyards. We don’t need national schedules to accom- plish our purposes.

Why? Because it’s the right way to do it. Schools offer these programs because they en- hance the educational experience of the young people who participate.

19 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Pre-Season Meeting Coaches Update Tips for Coaches

By Dr. Chris Stankovich, Ph.D., OHSAA Magazine Contributor rovides NFHS P One of the most important – yet often devalued and/or overlooked – opportunities Sportsmanship Kits for getting the season off to a great start is the pre-season meeting. Pre-season meetings can be a terrific way for you to introduce yourself, talk about your coaching The National Federation of State High philosophies, discuss team policies and rules and answer any questions parents or School Associations (NFHS) has cop- kids may have about the upcoming season. ies of the Sportsmanship. It’s up to you.™ sportsmanship kit. This innova- tive sportsmanship initiative was re- This meeting can lead to many great things, including the development of positive leased one year ago and has received interpersonal relationships with parents and student-athletes, early excitement for tremendous praise from school districts the upcoming season, and the foundation from which to build a winning program. across the country. The Sportsman- ship. It’s up to you.™ sportsmanship kit campaign starts with a mindset and Pre-season meetings can make all the difference when it comes to commonly ex- ends with behavioral choices. In this pected problems in interscholastic sports, including playing time, cuts, funding is- kit you will find the necessary informa- sues, schedule conflicts and appropriate protocols for communication and conflict tion and media resources to implement resolution. With a responsibly run pre-season meeting, you can expect far fewer a successful sportsmanship aware- ness and improvement program in your issues to arise with the aforementioned problems; without a pre-season meeting school. The materials are delivered on (or one that was quickly put together with not much forethought) you can bet you two DVDs. will experience more problems throughout the season. The bottom line is that pre- season meetings, when structured and run responsibly, help everyone and lead to The Resource DVD contains the imple- mentation guide in an easy-to-use PDF a winning program. format; overview video; motivational vid- eo to share with students and the local Listed below are eight tips for you to consider as you put together your pre-season community; various posters (that you can meeting: customize with your own school mascot and state association logo); live-read • While there is no right or wrong way to conduct one, think of the major four or five things you want to scripts for game/school announcements; have happen and then work backwards from those objectives. For example, if a parent wants to commu- various radio spots; a Student Pledge nicate with you, how should he or she do so? Do you prefer calls to your office or cell phone? Or do you Card that is downloadable; a logo/photo prefer email? Some additional topics you may want to discuss might include your philosophy on playing library; and campaign guidelines. time, your expectations for fan behavior, and guidelines around team fund raising. • Develop handouts that include everything you cover at the pre-season meeting (never assume attend- The Presentation DVD is to be used ees will remember everything you say). If you have a team website, be sure to upload any forms and when presenting to a large audience. handouts distributed at the pre-season meeting so that people who could not attend the meeting can This disc contains full-screen and full- still stay up-to-date on team news. resolution videos. The videos include the campaign overview and tips on how to • Keep the mood upbeat and positive and never punitive! When parents arrive at the meeting, your at- implement a successful sportsmanship titude and mood state will set the tempo and will make all the difference, not only in the meeting, but program. The disc also includes a mo- also in the entire season. tivational video to share with students, • Always allow time for questions, and be respectful toward all of them, even the ones that you think parents, the local community and three should be common sense. broadcast-quality public service an- nouncements that expose unsportsman- • It’s also a nice touch to talk a little about yourself, your previous athletic experiences, and how you ar- like behaviors using everyday situations. rived to be a coach at the school. The result is a campaign of funny, dis- • Go over your performance evaluation rubric so that everyone knows the kinds of things you evaluate arming spots that make you think before when deciding on cuts (if you have to make them) and playing time. Rather than stating a general com- you act and/or speak. ment like “The best kids will play,” try to offer more insightful comments that allow attendees to be clear about what you value as a coach (i.e. “I really look for kids who emphasize defense”). • Other important topics to discuss may include how volunteers can help the program, healthy training methods (and your stance on performance-enhancing supplements), and any additional costs that par- ents may need to subsidize. • Talk with your assistant coaches about any other things that they feel are important to be covered during the meeting and consider giving them a chance to speak at the meeting as well. If nothing else, your assistants can briefly tell about their previous experiences as a player and coach, and what they would like to accomplish for the upcoming season.

Pre-season meetings should be a great Dr. Chris Stankovich is a profes- sional athletic counselor, media experience for everyone, so think about spokesperson, and author in the field of sport performance science. the tips provided in this article and look His doctorate degree is from The for creative ways to get everyone excited Ohio State University, with an em- phasis of study in sport and health about the upcoming season. Your prepa- psychology. Known as “The Sports Doc” for his weekly television seg- ration, organization, and positive attitude ment on Ohio News Network, he is at the pre-season meeting will be the first also a featured national columnist 20 www.ohsaa.org for The Examiner. To learn more | OhSAA step toward a successful season. about Dr. Stankovich, including products and services, please visit www.drstankovich.com. Implementation of NFHS Playing Rules Changes Related Athletic Director Update to Concussed Athletes and Return to Play Protocol Athletic It is important for all adults involved in interscholastic athletics to recognize the po- Director tential for catastrophic injury and even death from concussions. Thus it is extremely important that each coach, administrator, contest official and medical support per- Spotlight sonnel review their responsibilities in protecting students. Dave Gray

Last year the OHSAA Board of Directors adopted a sports regulation which incorpo- It was an exciting winter sports season rated the NFHS rules change. This regulation reads: Any athlete who exhibits signs, for Cambridge High School and no one is prouder than the man in charge of the symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of conscious- athletic program, Dave Gray. The Bobcats’ ness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately girls basketball team (along with hordes of removed from the contest and shall not return to play until cleared with written Bobcat faithful) made a trip to Columbus for the first state tournament appearance authorization by an appropriate health care professional. In Ohio, an “appropriate in program history and sophomore Taylor health care professional” shall be a physician, as authorized under ORC Chapter Endly was selected to sing the National 4731 and includes both doctors of medicine (M.D.) and doctors of osteopathy (D.O.) Anthem before the Div. IV boys basketball state championship game. and an athletic trainer, licensed under ORC Chapter 4755. Cambridge sold over 1,100 tickets for its In January 2011, the OHSAA Board of Directors has further defined the following pa- Thursday afternoon semifinal game and school festivities included a pep rally com- rameters to guide OHSAA licensed officials, medical personnel and member school plete with the team arriving in the gym in a representatives in implementing this change. convertible and being sent off to Columbus in a limousine.

1. What are the “signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concus- “With the local economy in the shape it’s in, sion?” The National Federation rule lists some of the signs, symptoms and be- the girls team making the state tournament haviors consistent with a concussion. The U.S. Department of Human Services, provided something that was badly needed for our community,” said Gray. “The sup- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published the following lists port we received from the Cambridge com- of signs, symptoms and behaviors that are consistent with a concussion: munity and the other schools in Guernsey County was outstanding.” Signs Observed by Others Symptoms Reported by Athlete • Appears dazed or stunned • Headache An owner of diplomas from Coshocton High • Is confused about assignment • Nausea School, Ohio University and Xavier Univer- • Forgets plays • Balance problems or dizziness sity, Gray has been the athletic director at • Is unsure of game, score, or opponent • Double or fuzzy vision • Sensitivity to light or noise Cambridge for 19 years and has served as • Moves clumsily the school’s head baseball coach the last • Answers questions slowly • Feeling sluggish • Feeling foggy or groggy three seasons. He credits the aforemen- • Loses consciousness tioned community support as the main rea- • Shows behavior or personality changes • Concentration or memory problems • Cannot recall events prior to hit • Confusion son why he loves his job. • Cannot recall events after hit “Considering the amount of time an athletic 2. What can happen if a student-athlete keeps on playing with a concussion director logs, it may be one of the most un- or returns too soon? derpaid positions in education,” said Gray. “But dealing with the people in this commu- Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves the nity and the quality of coaches and student- young athlete especially vulnerable to greater injury. There is an increased risk athletes we have at Cambridge makes it an of significant damage from a concussion for a period of time after that concus- enjoyable job.” sion occurs, particularly if the athlete suffers another concussion before com- Cambridge has one of the more unique ath- pletely recovering from the first one (second impact syndrome). This can lead to letic programs in the state in that every stu- prolonged recovery, or even to severe brain swelling with devastating and even dent-athlete is drug tested at the beginning of each sports season and 10 percent are fatal consequences. It is well known that adolescent or teenage athletes will tested at random throughout the season. often under-report symptoms of injuries. And concussions are no different. As a The program is in its third year and Gray result, education of administrators, coaches, parents and students is the key for receives a number of calls from schools in- quiring about its implementation. a student-athlete’s safety. “We didn’t start a drug-testing program to 3. If you think your student-athlete has suffered a concussion: punish our student-athletes,” said Gray. “Rather, we started the program so that we Any athlete suspected of suffering a concussion should be removed from the can get kids help early if there is an issue.” game or practice immediately. No athlete may return to activity after an appar- ent head injury or concussion, regardless of how mild it seems or how quickly Such commitment to the welfare of his student-athletes and his love for the sports symptoms clear, without medical clearance. Close observation of the athlete programs at Cambridge is what makes should continue for several hours. You should also inform your child’s coach if Dave Gray an exemplary leader for the you think that your child may have a concussion. Remember, it’s better to miss Bobcat athletic program. one game than miss the whole season. And when in doubt, the athlete sits out. 21 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org

For current and up-to-date information on concussions you can go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ConcussionInYouthSports OHSAA Update OHSAA Districts

Did you 3. Northwest: nwdab.org 2. Northeast: nedab.org KNOW?

While studying the OHSAA’s financ- 3 es, please keep in mind these five key financial benefits that all member 2 schools are afforded:

1. The OHSAA does not have annual membership fees. Such fees were discontinued by the OHSAA in the 1 mid-1980s. 4 2. The OHSAA does not have tourna- ment entry fees. Those fees, even 5 though they were often only be- tween $25 and $50 per sport, were 5. East: eastohsaa.com also discontinued in the mid-1980s. 6 3. The OHSAA pays for catastrophic insurance coverage for all stu- 4. Southwest: swdab.org dent-athletes, cheerleaders, 6. Southeast: seodab.org band members, etc. That is an annual expense of approximately 1. Central: cdab.org $700,000. The only assistance that schools are asked to provide toward that cost is a $250 donation for the opportunity to participate in a football jamboree game in Au- OHSAA Revenue & Expenses gust, at which schools may charge admission and generate revenue Total Revenue in other forms similar to a regular- season game. .5% 19.5% Service Revenue 4. In some OHSAA regional and Other Support 9% Officials Dues state tournaments, schools are re- 7% Corporate Sponsors 3.5% Other imbursed travel costs. Those trav- el costs include mileage, meals, 80% overnight accommodations, etc. Tournament Revenue 34% Football 21% Boys Basketball 5. In some OHSAA regional and 6% Wrestling state tournaments, schools are 19% Other permitted to offer presale tickets to their communities and keep a per- centage of the revenue generated. Total Expenses The 2009-10 independent audit 49% report of the OHSAA is posted 51% Tournament Expenses online at: Operating Expenses 20% Football 7% Boys Basketball 22% Other www.ohsaa.org/financial/AuditedFinancial10.pdf 8% Insurance 7% Salaries 36% Other

22 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org MARATHON – Sponsor Update Fueling The American Spirit Across Ohio Core Partners

If you attended an OHSAA state championship event this year, particularly the volleyball, football or the girls and boys basketball events, you have clearly noticed the positive and exciting effect that Marathon Petroleum Company has had on the OHSAA, its student-athletes and fans.

Headquartered right here in Ohio (Findlay), Marathon could not be more excited about supporting Ohio’s student-athletes. In fact, Marathon is actively engaged with everything the OHSAA has to offer. In addition to having traditional advertising elements such as on-site signage, radio and television spots that are activated Sponsors at OHSAA state championship and playoff events, fans can get directions to any destination including schools and tournament sites through the “Station Locator” link on the OHSAA homepage (www.OHSAA.org). While on the way to these events, fans can stop at any one of the almost 900 Marathon Brand locations in the state and will see a “Marathon is proud to support local high school athletes” decal on the front entrance window. Other unique elements to the partnership include in-game features during all official OHSAA television broadcasts and designation as the “Official Sponsor of Tournament Directions” in the OHSAA Fan Guide.

Official Ball Sponsors

Fall Football Wilson GST, Used in all OHSAA tournament contests Soccer Nike T-90, Catalyst, Used in all OHSAA regional and state tournament contests Volleyball Molton/IV 58L-BKSV-OH, Used in all OHSAA tournament contests Winter Girls Basketball /CompOHIO 285VB, Used in all OHSAA tournament contests Boys Basketball Rawlings/CompOHIO VB, Catalyst Used in all OHSAA regional and state tournament contests Spring Baseball Rawlings R100-OHIO, Used in all OHSAA tournament contests Softball Optic Yellow Worth C12RYL-OH, Used in all OHSAA tournament contests

Steve Neil

Steve Neil joined the OHSAA as assistant commissioner in August of 2005. He earned a pair of degrees from Miami Univer sit y, where he also played baseball and worked in the athletic department for eight years. Steve works with the OHSAA’s corporate part- ners and serves as the administrator for ice hockey.

23 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Fans Win Big Marathon has had a strong presence at OHSAA the third quarter, that student had the opportunity events in many capacities, however, one can argue to make different shots on the court for different that the biggest and most positive impact it had is gas card amounts. The ultimate prize being through the now-famous, gas card promotions at awarded for making a half-court shot. various state championship events. Over the course of the weekend, students won Beginning with the 2010 OHSAA boy’s basketball different gas cards and the last contestant, during championships, Marathon decided it would be the last game of the weekend made the half- a great idea to provide some assistance to the court shot on his last attempt. The student, from students who travel from all areas of Ohio to Massillon Jackson High School, “swished” the support their school and team in Columbus. That shot and the crowd went crazy. The student went assistance would come in the form of gas cards home with a $1,000 gas card in his pocket, as well that students had the opportunity to win in varying as some extra promotional items from Marathon. amounts through the Marathon Gas Card Promotion. Seeing the success at the 2010 basketball Prior to each game, in partnership with the OHSAA tournament, Marathon expanded this promotion to a lucky student was selected to participate in the various OHSAA sports during each athletic season promotion. The student selected exuded exemplary of the 2010-2011 school year. Students from across spirit and enthusiasm of their school. At the end of the state could be seen winning gas cards at the

24 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org volleyball, football and girls and boys basketball championships such as was the case when another “Marathon is proud to be a partner of the student made the half court shot during the boys OHSAA and is pleased to see how excited basketball DII final. The student, from Akron St. the fans get for our on-site promotions at Vincent-St. Mary High School, received a $500 gas card and an on-air TV interview during the broadcast. these events. This partnership is a great way for Marathon to show its support for To date, Marathon has contributed more than $6,000 student-athletes across Ohio, as well as worth of gas cards back to high school students have a little fun interacting with the crowds throughout Ohio. It is evident that Marathon sees its partnership as more than just a sponsorship. at the OHSAA State Championships!” The organization is truly doing all it can to enhance its role in the OHSAA member school communities – Randy Flesch, Manager Eastern District, Marathon through this effort and having fun while doing it. .

25 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org Tournament Previews 2011 Spring Championships Previews

SportsTime Ohio By Brian Day, OHSAA Sports Information Intern SportsTime What: Baseball What: b oys & girls Ohio will pro- When: Thursday, June 2 Track & Field vide coverage – Saturday, June 4 Friday, June 3 – of the 2011 When: Huntington Park, softball cham- Where: Saturday, June 4 pionship games on Saturday, June 4. Columbus Where: Jesse Owens Memorial Sta- dium, Ohio State University, Columbus SportsTime Ohio is the official television part- About the Championships: Huntington ner of the OHSAA and has exclusive rights to Park, the home of the Cleveland Indi- selected OHSAA state tournaments. Log on to ans’ AAA affiliate , About the Championships: Two days, the OHSAA’s Fan Guide to purchase DVDs of will play host to the 84th Annual Base- 34 events in three divisions and thou- state tournament contests televised by STO. ball State Tournament for the third con- sands of student-athletes representing During the 2010-11 school year, events includ- hundreds of schools are some of the ed the volleyball state finals, the football state secutive year. The semifinals for Divi- sions I and IV will be played Thursday, numbers behind the 2011 State Track & finals and other selected football playoff games, Field Tournament held at Jesse Owens the wrestling state tournament, the bowling state while Divisions II and III semifinals will Memorial Stadium on the campus of The tournament, the ice hockey state finals, the girls be held Friday. Saturday’s champion- Ohio State University. This year will be and boys basketball state finals and the softball ship games will be played at 10 a.m. state finals. (Div. I), 1 p.m. (Div. IV), 4 p.m. (Div. II) the 104th edition of the boys state meet and 7 p.m. (Div. III). Rain wreaked hav- and the 37th annual girls tournament. STO provides fans across Ohio with exceptional The boys state track and field tourna- regional sports programming, beginning with qual- oc on the 2010 state tournament but not on the state championship dreams of ment is the longest-running OHSAA ity coverage of the . STO’s state tournament. Boys team state programming expands beyond the OHSAA and Lakewood St. Edward (Div. I), Plain City champions in 2010 were Warren G. baseball with coverage of the Mid-American Jonathan Alder (Div. II), Bellville Clear Harding (Div. I), Pemberville Eastwood Conference, , Ohio State, Fork (Div. III) and Fort Loramie (Div. IV), Cleveland State, golf, and outdoors programming. which came away with state titles. Sec- (Div. II) and North Robinson Colonel SportsTime Ohio is your home for Ohio sports. tional tournament play begins the week Crawford (Div. III), while Reynoldsburg of May 9. (Div. I), Cleveland Collinwood (Div. II) and Versailles (Div. III) were champions OHSAA on the girls side. District track meets be- What: softball gin the week of May 16. Radio When: Thursday, Network June 2 – Saturday, June 4 Where: Firestone What: Boys tennis The OHSAA Radio Network Stadium, Akron When: Friday, May 27 – will provide live coverage Saturday, May 28 of all 12 games of the 2011 About the Championships: 2011 marks Where: Hilliard Davidson state baseball tournament at Huntington Park, the fourth straight year the state soft- High School from Thursday, June 2 through Saturday, June ball championships have been held at 4. Created in the spring of 2010, the OHSAA Firestone Stadium in Akron, home of pro About the Championships: The 92nd Radio Network is a free, non-exclusive, com- softball’s Akron Racers. The three-day boys state tennis tournament will be mercial-split broadcast of selected OHSAA tournament features Division III and held at Hilliard Davidson High School state tournament contests. During the 2010-11 II state semifinals Thursday, Division I due to the renovation of the Stickney school year, those events include the football and IV semifinals Friday and all four di- Tennis Center at The Ohio State Uni- championship games, the entire girls and boys vision championship games Saturday. versity, the usual site for the state ten- basketball state tournaments and the baseball nis championships. Unlike most other state tournament for a total of 42 contests. Championship games Saturday are at 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Last OHSAA tournaments, no team champi- Radio stations and streaming websites are on is crowned, rather awards are hand- welcome to obtain the feed, which is delivered year, Massillon Perry (Div. I) and Pleas- ed out to singles and doubles champi- either online via a 48K stereo broadband audio ant Hill Newton (Div. IV) were crowned ons in each of the two divisions. Kevin stream or from a phone line (32K mono). The state softball champions for the first OHSAA has selected veteran broadcasters and time in school history, while Jeromesville Metka of Worthington Kilbourne (Div. will utilize about half of the commercial time for Hillsdale (Div. III) won its sixth champi- I) and Chris Diaz of Columbus Bishop its public service announcements and promo- onship and Hebron Lakewood (Div. II) Watterson (Div. II), both former doubles tion of its official corporate partners. A detailed won its third consecutive title. Sectional champions, were singles champions in programming log will be created for each game play begins the week of May 9 lead- 2010, while teams from Upper Arlington for stations to follow. For more information, con- ing up to the 34th Annual State Softball (Div. I) and Gahanna Columbus Acad- tact Tim Stried at [email protected]. Tournament. emy (Div. II) were crowned as doubles champions. Sectional tennis begins the week of May 9. Monroeville’s Four Horsemen Champions

Entering the 2011 state wrestling tournament, a OHSAA Accepting total of 19 wrestlers in the Donations of 73 years of the OHSAA state wrestling tourna- Historical Items ment had achieved the for ew ffice milestone of becoming a N O four-time state champion. Showcase During the 2011 state tournament, three wres- The Ohio High School Athletic Associa- tlers were added to that tion has secured a new showcase in the list – and for the first time lobby of its headquarters in Columbus and is asking member school adminis- in state tournament histo- trators and coaches to consider donating ry, all three were from the any historical memorabilia for display. same school. Above: Logan Stieber, Hunter Stieber, Chris Phillips and Cam Tessari Appropriate items would be old jerseys Monroeville wrestlers Hunter Stieber at 135 pounds, Cam Tessari at 140 pounds and or uniforms from state championship teams or standout athletes; old pro- Chris Phillips at 171 pounds became the newest four-time state champions on March grams, publications or photos from state 5, 2011. They were joined on the center mat by 2010 Monroeville graduate Logan championship teams or standout ath- Stieber, who in 2010 became the 19th four-time state champion. letes or coaches, and old game balls that That’s four four-time state champions from the same school in a two-year period, have significance such as those marked from state championships. Items can be something that has never been seen in Ohio before – and may never again. returned after a 12-to-18-month period.

Circle Of Champions For questions or additional information, contact OHSAA Associate Commissioner For the fifth consecutive year, the Ohio High School Athletic Association selected Bob Goldring at [email protected]. individuals who had prominent roles in the history of Ohio interscholastic athletics to be honored as part of the Association’s Circle of Champions program. This year’s six honorees were recognized at halftime of two boys basketball state tournament games. Bob Goldring Honored during halftime of the Division II Bob Goldring joined championship game were Wayne Embry, the OHSAA in the fall Jim Houston and Harrison Dillard. Hon- of 1995 as Director of ored during halftime of the Division III title Information Services. contest were Madeline Manning Mims, He was promoted to As- sistant Commissioner Phil Niekro and John Havlicek. in June 2005 and to Associate Commis- sioner for Operations in August 2008. A 1977 graduate of Orrville High School, he holds two degrees from The Ohio State University. Bob’s previous work has all been in collegiate sports informa- tion offices, including Rose-Hulman In- stitute of Technology, Purdue University and Ohio State University.

Above: John Havlicek, Madeline Manning Mims and Phil Niekro 1927 | OhSAA www.ohsaa.org

Right: Wayne Embry, Jim Houston and Harrison Dillard A Bird of Prey Columbus Bishop Hartley sophomore Jawaun Woodley’s 43- yard touchdown catch put the Hawks up 14-0 early in the first quarter en route to a 34-13 victory over Chagrin Falls in the 2010 Division IV state championship game at Paul Brown Tiger Sta- dium in Massillon. The 2011 state football finals return to Stark County’s Canton Fawcett Stadium and Paul Brown Tiger Sta- dium December 2 and 3.

Coming This Fall

A Tale of Trojan Triumph After finishing fourth as a junior, runner-up as a sophomore and 14th as a freshman, Cincinnati Glen Este senior Michelle Thom- as jubilantly crosses the finish line as the state champion in the 2010 Division I state cross coun- try meet at Scioto Downs Race Track in Columbus. Thomas finished with a time of 14:41.5, becoming the first Trojan state cross country champion.

NON-PROFIT ORG. U.S. POSTAGE PAID COLUMBUS, OHIO PERMIT NO. 630