JAN./FEB. 2006 Volume 90 • Number 4 LeaguerUN IVE RS I T Y I NT E RSC H O L A ST I C L E A G U E

utstanding Sponsor Excellence winners selected OBy Kim Rogers Briefs and Notes achievement he University Interscholastic League is proud to recognize 15 of the top UIL sponsors in Texas as the 2005 UIL Sponsor Calendar of TExcellence Award winners. upcoming events A panel of judges in the areas of music, athletics and academics se- Jan. 31 ...... Last day lected the winners from nominations submitted by school principals and to hold fall/winter Elem/JH superintendents across the state. district meets The award, now in its 15th year, was created to identify and recognize Feb. 1 ...... Deadline outstanding sponsors who enable students to develop and refine their to set up academic and OAP extracurricular talents to the highest degree possible within the educa- district online tional system. Feb. 1 ...... D e a d l i n e “The benefits of interscholastic competition and student performance to complete academic district are only possible through the hard work and dedication of sponsors, meet organization and submit coaches and directors like these,” said UIL Director Dr. Bill Farney. “On requisition forms behalf of the UIL, I commend these outstanding educators.” Feb. 1 ...... First day for Each winner will receive $1,000 and a symbolic keepsake in recognition Elem/JH spring district meets Feb. 1 ...... ILPC News of their outstanding achievements in the pursuit of educational excel- -papers and IAA entries due lence through interscholastic competition. The UIL continually strives Feb. 1 ...... Proposed to strengthen and promote the role of extracurricular activities in Texas amendments to the constitu- through programs like the UIL Sponsor Excellence Award. tion and by-laws due See Sponsor Excellence, p. 12 Feb. 4 ...... Last day for academic invitational meets using Set A materials Feb. 10 ...... First day for Eddie Wolksi steps in academic invitational meets using Set B materials Feb. 11 ...... Last day to as new waiver officer hold district CX debate competitions By Amy Casteen UIL Staff Feb. 13 ...... CX debate “It breaks your heart district results deadline Waiver Officer Eddie Wolski when you can’t help, Feb. 15 ...... Deadline to sits at his desk, talking to a coach but it makes you feel accept athletic plans (except on the phone about a student football) for next year whose waiver he denied. good when you can.” Feb. 16 ...... CX Debate “I did everything I could do, -Eddie Wolski deadline to submit judging Coach, but I have rules I have to feels for the students he must information for state meet follow,” Wolski explains to the make decisions about, he says. Feb. 16 ...... CX Debate coach. He also is very familiar with the certification deadline for Wolski was hired as the waiver UIL rules regarding eligibility and advancing teams officer in August and assumed a po- Feb. 23 ...... Title entry has a rapport with coaches so he sition that requires him to evaluate cards for OAP due understands their concerns and athletic waivers and determine March 1 ...... Max Had- feelings when it comes to making eligibility for students. “Some dick Teacher of Year and Edith his decisions. we can help. Some we can’t. It Fox King nominations due Wolski’s athletic background breaks your heart when you can’t March 1 ...... First day for started at Coahoma High School, online registration for Solo & help, but it makes you feel good where he played football and ran Ensemble when you can,” he says. track. At Coahoma, Wolski met Eddie Wolski stays extremely busy as UIL waiver officer. Since he With 19 years of coaching The UIL web page is: experience under his belt, Wolski See Wolski, page 7 www.uil.utexas.edu started, he has processed more than 400 waivers. UIL Leaguer 2 • News January/ February 2006 You’re on somebody’s list Teachers and coaches change lives through their work with students EDITOR By David V. Stead teachers. If there are only three people listed, time with. Dr. Bill Farney, Executive Director, Minnesota State High School League two of them will be coaches or teachers. You’re That’s much easier, right? The lesson? The UIL Director on somebody’s list. people who make a difference in your life are MANAGING EDITOR ou’re on somebody’s list. Yes, you are. Those whom you have touched, either directly not the ones with the most credentials, the most Jeanne Acton, You may not know it, but your name is or indirectly, will remember your character, your money, or the most awards. They are the ones assistant academic written somewhere on the list. commitment, your caring. who care. director Y As we begin a new year, I want to share a Here’s another example. As you may know, America needs people like you who like kids; ADMINISTRATIVE couple of things about the role you play in the Charles Schultz, the creator or “Peanuts” comic who care more about what is right than who gets STAFF lives of kids and to challenge you to take on the strip, is from Minnesota. Here is a piece of phi- the credit; who are willing to risk; and who can walk Dr. Bill Farney, mantle of leadership in order to help kids believe losophy he’s shared. into a “charged” situation and enable people to director in themselves. 1. Name the five wealthiest people in the take a piece of pride away from the encounter. Dr. Charles As an organization, we build our foundation world. You … all of you … are heroes. You are a Breithaupt, with and for adults in order to help them focus 2. Name the last five Heisman trophy win- favorite teacher. assistant director & on students. ners. I believe the dream of the educational athletics director of athletics They are the ones who matter most… the 3. Name the last five Indianapolis 500 win- and fine arts programs at the high school level Richard Floyd, director of music kids. They are the future leaders who will carry ners. begins with the coach, the teacher, the admin- activities our message. 4. Name three people who have won the Nobel istrator, the official, or the school board member Treva Dayton, We need to recognize success and connect with or Pulitzer Prize. whose vision is truth; whose choice is to compete director of academics students through our work in education. 5. Name the last half dozen Academy Award within the rules; and whose personal expectation Jeanne Acton, Think about the impact you have on people’s winners for best actor and best actress. is to raise the standard for the people with whom assistant academic lives. More importantly, think about the people How’d you do? they work in order to help them achieve beyond director who are the very most important in the lives of The point is that none of us really remember their self-imposed limitations. Daryl Beasley, the students in your school. the headliners of yesterday, and these are no A South Dayton New York teacher said, “To- assistant athletic If you haven’t yet made the connection, follow second-rate achievers. day we live in a society where peer pressure is the director Diana Cardona, along with me. They’re the best in their fields, but the applause strongest drug facing our youth.” spring meet materials Truly, it’s you and others like you who work dies, awards tarnish, achievements are forgotten, This week, and in every week ahead, I ask you director with kids, who guide peers, and who interact with and accolades and certificates are buried with to make it your personal challenge to turn peer Peter Contreras, your school community. their owners. pressure into a positive force. athletic coordinator Let me give you two examples of what I’m Now, try this exercise: No group of people can be as successful as Dr. Mark Cousins, talking about. This simple demonstration involves 1. List a few teachers who aided your journey you. athletic coordinator gathering a group of people together. through school. Only you can go one-on-one with kids who, Sandra Deel, Ask them to name the 10 people who mean 2. Name three friends who have helped you in the future, when asked to name someone in financial officer the most to them in their lives … who truly made through a difficult time. their life who truly made a difference, will put Eddie Wolski, waiver officer a difference for them. Tell them not to include 3. Name five people who have taught you your name on their list and remember that you Rachel Harrison, family members. something worthwhile. were their favorite teacher. athletic coordinator If they name eight people, I’ll bet five of 4. Think of a few people who have made you Kelly McCollum, them will be coaches or teachers. If they name feel appreciated and special. (MSHSL gave permsission for the reprint of this technology director five people … three of them will be coaches or 5. Think of five people you enjoy spending article which previously ran in its newsletter.) Luis Muñoz, one-act play director Bonnie Northcutt, director of policy October, November/December, January/February, Garland ISD; Mark Henry, Galena Park ISD; John Leaguer March and April/May. There are no issues in June, Folks, Northside ISD. Jana Riggins, July or August. One year’s subscription is $8. Peri- 4A • Darrell Floyd, Stephenville, ISD; Rick Reedy, assistant academic “ISSN 0897-4314” odicals Postage Paid in Austin, TX. Frisco ISD, Don Hendrix, Crosby ISD; Alton Fields, director Pleasanton ISD. Kim Rogers, POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The STATE EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE 3A • Jerry Blakely, Littlefield ISD; Bruce Wood, public information Leaguer, P.O. Box 8028, Austin, TX 78713. Chairman: Mike Motheral, superintendent, Sundown Kaufman ISD; John Key, Groesbeck ISD; Paul Smith, director The Leaguer is the official publication of the ISD; Palacios ISD. Ed Stidham, University Interscholastic League. The Leaguer is Members: Richard Avila, Corpus Christi; Paul Galvan, 2A • Jerry Vaughn, Floydada ISD; Richard Cohagan, distributed to Texas public school administrators, compliance director Fort Worth; Pamela Harrison, former superintendent, Gunter ISD; Glenn Hambrick, Elkhart ISD; Charles contest directors, coaches and sponsors, the media, Temple ISD; Kerry Hansen, superintendent, Troy ISD; Butcher, Boling ISD. David Trussell, and to other interested parties. Teresa L. Long, Austin; Ruth Meredith, Horseshoe Bay; A • Carl Taylor, Wellington ISD; Don Rhodes, assistant academic Access the UIL on the Web at http:// Robert Payton, DeSoto; David Seago, superintendent, May ISD; Dan Jones, Avery ISD; Edward Pustka, director www.uil.utexas.edu. Emory Rains ISD; William Smith, superintendent, Moulton ISD. The UIL office is located at 1701 Manor Rd., Aus- Greenville ISD; Ryder Warren, superintendent, Marble At-large members • Kay Waggoner, Grapevine- tin, TX 78722 (512/471-5883). Letters, inquiries Falls ISD. Colleyville ISD; Robert Nicks, Midland ISD; James and changes of address should be sent to UIL, Box Brewer, De Kalb ISD; Linda Henrie, Mesquite ISD; 8028, Austin, TX 78713-8028. LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL Adrain Johnson, La Marque ISD; Sylvester Perez, San The Leaguer is published monthly by The University Chair: Vernon Newsom Marcos CISD; Yolanda Chapa, McAllen ISD. Interscholastic League. It is published in September, 5A • Vernon Newsom, Mansfield ISD; Curtis Culwell, UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 Academics • 3 Useful tips and hints With district around the corner, it’s time to tackle the online system again

eady or not, need to be sent to the district academic director, before ballot verification. deadlines for but the public can still view the schedule. The program also provides a ‘diagnostic’ sheet, Ra c a d e m i c Entering Contestants which explains the criteria for ranks and how any district meets are upon Academic coordinators entering their school’s ties were broken. us! The good news is contestants need a UT EID, but do not need to After Results Are Official that the online entry be authorized by our office. Be careful to type Once events have been verified and official and results system is students’ names correctly. Use upper and lower results announced, the meet director or district now ‘old hat’ to many case, and enter last name first, followed by first chair must change the status of the meet to ‘Meet of you, and based on name. Proof for correct spelling. results are posted and available for review’ so your input and that If Treva Dayton is typed as Trivia Data, that’s they can be seen by the public. If you forget this Treva Dayton of numerous contest what will be heard at roll call at every level of the step, expect lots of phone calls. Academic Director directors, it has been contest. (Been there.) The wild card team is the best second-place tweaked and revamped Unless a student actually prefers initials to a team score in the region. Not all second place to make it as user friendly as possible. name, don’t use them. It’s a good idea to enter teams advance. Only the team with the highest Those changes and three years of experience substitutes in each event, as they will appear score among all of the second place teams in the with the system have reduced phone calls and on the contest roster as eligible to compete if a region will advance to the region meet. email questions significantly, saving time for those replacement is needed. Districts must post of you setting up meets and for our staff, as well. Entering Results results online by 5 p.m. We’re available to answer any questions you It’s important that the meet director or autho- of the Monday follow- District contest directors might have about the online system, but urge rized data entry person enter the results of each ing the second dis- you to read the excellent help instructions before contest into the online system BEFORE verifica- trict week. By Tuesday who have suggestions for you call. tion is held for those contests which require it. following the second Setting Up the Academic District Meet Have someone double check results entered to district week, the UIL improving instructions, The bad news is, if your are in charge of setting avoid errors, since the computer can’t recognize will post a list of tenta- forms or other contest mate- up your academic district meet and haven’t done so typos or inverted numbers and will only crunch tive wild card entries by the Feb. 1 deadline, you’ll be hearing not only the information it is given. to region. Schools will rial should send those to the from our office, but from all the coordinators in Don’t rush. If you hurry to announce results have 48 hours to notify your district trying to enter their contestants. with wrong information, you’ll wish you hadn’t. the UIL of errors or UIL academic department. Many academic district directors or meet hosts Trust me on this one. omissions. have already entered meet information, but some Once proofed, print the results and have these The final list will be And we’d like to hear from have failed to click the correct ‘Status of the available at verification. If your results do not posted on the Thursday meet directors with helpful Meet’ link from the pull-down menu on the meet print on a single page, or more likely, print too morning after the sec- setup page. ‘This meet is closed to schools and small to read easily, try another Internet browser. ond district week. After hints, as well. public’ is the default setting, which you would Mozilla and Firefox print larger than Safari, which that time, no changes use before you are ready for schools to use the is good for old folks like me who can’t see tiny will be made. Wild card entry process. print anymore. Internet Explorer prints quite qualifiers will not be notified directly. However, meet directors must change the status small, but you can enlarge the font before you The list of wild card qualifiers will be posted by Feb. 1 at the latest (and sooner is better!) to print, if needed. on the UIL Web site (www.uil.utexas.edu). All ‘schools may enter contestants in the meet’ to Only after verification, when any actual errors coordinators should check the posting, even if allow academic coordinators to enter students in grading can be corrected, should you ‘Certify you think it’s a long shot. in events. event results as final’ in each contest. Read We’ve had a qualifying wild card team not Some meets that have been setup online do instructions carefully, as it takes several clicks attend State Meet, just because someone forgot not yet have scheduled times of events, so meet before you see ‘the results of this event are final to check. directors will want to check this, too. and certified,’ which is necessary to advance When the whole thing is over, take deep breaths Journalism and Speech team points must be contestants to regional competition. and relax! And don’t forget to follow up with a calculated, so Speech and Journalism are listed Contest directors for individual speech events thank you to all the folks who helped: supportive as ‘events.’ The team points are combined from should download the speech tabulation program, administrators, graders and judges, student as- several contests. These team events will automati- PC-TalkTab, from the UIL speech and debate sistants, teachers whose rooms were used, school cally be saved when you save the meet. You won’t Web site under the heading Tournaments and the secretaries, security and janitorial staff, parent need to enter a time or location. link Download Speech Tabulation Software. It’s and community volunteers and anyone else who When your entry deadline has passed, change free, fast and as accurate as the rankings entered, helped carry the load. the status to ‘meet schedule is posted and avail- because it really knows the UIL panel ranking No one can run a good meet alone, and you’ll able for review.’ criteria! want their help again the next time around. Additional entries would be considered late Carefully enter the rankings of any panel of Best wishes for a smooth and successful aca- entries. Any substitutions after that date would judges and let the software rank the contestants demic district meet! UIL Leaguer 4 • Speech January/ February 2006 Ethics: The greatest lesson Regretfully, James Frey’s book is no longer suitable for prose competition Stephen Glass of scription indicates contest material for Category Academic page of the UIL Web site. Complete The New Republic. New A — True Reflections: Non-Fiction should be instructions for those who have never used the York Time’s Jayson Blair. drawn from literary works “in which the author(s) 3-year-old system or for those who would like a Dan Rather and CBS share(s) his or her actual experiences.” The UIL refresher course are posted there. News. Now the author Prose and Poetry Handbook, page 35, further Creating Rosters: Once all schools have en- of a best-selling memoir clarifies. “The intent and spirit of this category tered their contestants, district officials may create whose truth recently is to read about events that actually happened, a roster. To do so, enter the system and click on was called into ques- not those in someone’s imagination or unrealistic the link entitled “Meet” in the left margin. This tion acknowledged he exaggeration. Choose selections accordingly.” will take you to the ”Update Meet Information” fabricated details of In the section Helpful Guides to Documenta- page. Input your specific CX District information Jana Riggins Speech Director his life. tion, (page 46), “Publisher’s bios might lead you and click. James Frey’s book, to believe a book is autobiographical with phrases You will see the Event Roster link in the left A Million Little Pieces like ‘based on the life of…’” Don’t settle for this as margin. Click on this link and the screen will reportedly sold more copies in the United States adequate proof of non-fiction. There are too many post your district roster. Links are posted on this in 2005 than any other title. Oprah Winfrey gray areas in such statements. You should see a yel- page that will allow you to produce a printable selected it as the first low caution flag when you discover statements such version of the roster or download the roster into Although previously published non-fiction book ever as ‘founded on the author’s life’. Suspicion should a spreadsheet. documentation for the book would for her influential book arise when you encounter combined phrases like Posting Results: Officials must submit results club, escalating it to the ‘autobiographical novel’ or ‘semi-autobiographi- online within 10 calendar days of the meet or Feb. have passed the UIL litmus test, top of the New York cal’, phrases that just don’t agree.” 13, whichever date is sooner. Be certain you fol- as this Leaguer goes to press, the Times nonfiction best At this point, I cannot predict if this book low all the way through the process for certifying -seller list for months. will be re-catalogued, but certainly the validity results, which is quick and easy but requires several author is accused of literary fraud, Amazon named it ”Best of current documentation has been called into clicks as the computer processes the information he has acknowledged parts of the Book of the Year.” question. There are too many gray areas. Under throughout the online system. story are not true, and there is Frey’s admission these circumstances, coaches should shelve the The results process includes these simple during an interview book and any performance cuttings students may steps: legal action pending. on CNN’s Larry King have worked on. It is unfortunate if your student 1) Click on Update Results. Live that the account has already spent a great deal of time and effort 2) Enter places for each team in boxes pro- of his personal criminal with this literature, but it is good that information vided. Save.The screen will tell you these results and drug-addicted past had been embellished came to light now and not later in the spring at are tentative. came after an investigative Web site, The Smoking the height of competition. 3) Click on Team Placement. This brings up Gun, publicly claimed that Frey had exaggerated We will continue to follow this story as it places. Results will appear in red because they key events in the book. Disputed were segments unfolds. remain tentative at this point. of the book that includes claims he served three I challenge you as coaches to continue to 4) Click on “Save Final Placement.” The screen months in jail for running over a policeman, and expect the highest standards of ethics from your will indicate placement has been saved for this was blamed for a car crash that killed two fellow competitive students, in spite of the worldly role event, but you are not finished. The screen tells students while he was in high school. models they read about in the news. It may be the you to certify the final event results. According to news reports, a class action lawsuit greatest lesson you will ever teach. 5) Click to certify. The Certify Event screen has been filed in Chicago accusing Frey and his CX Debate State Meet: will appear and ask you to do a final proof to publishers of consumer fraud. Schools qualifying teams to the State Debate make certain the results entered are correct. If Several of you have contacted my office because Tournament are required to submit judging forms results have been entered correctly, click on the your students have rehearsed cuttings of this book within 10 calendar days of their district meet, or certification button. for category A of prose in preparation for UIL Feb. 16, whichever is sooner. Schools qualifying 6) It is important to read the next screen care- district. Perhaps some have already competed two teams should submit forms for both judges by fully. It will instruct you to return to the “Update with it at invitational meets. this deadline to avoid a late fee. Meet” page as you will need to change the status Although previously published documentation Rounds for certification do not have to be of your meet now to read: “Meet results posted for the book would have passed the UIL litmus secured prior to the district meet but teams that and available for review.” If you do not perform test, as this Leaguer goes to press, the author is must be certified according to the C&CR must this step, results for your district will not appear accused of literary fraud, he has acknowledged submit their certification form by Feb. 16. For on the List of Meets page. parts of the story are not true, and there is legal clarification of the 8-round rule and details on You can verify you have completed all steps by action pending. A late-breaking report indicated rounds that count toward the certification require- clicking on the Schedule/Results link in the left that a spokesperson for his publisher, Doubleday ment, access http:// www.uil.utexas.edu/academ- margin. If the link “Results” appears next to your Books, announced future editions of James Frey’s ics/speech/cx_debate8round.html. conference/district number, you have completed book will include an author’s note about the Online Assistance the process successfully. If it does not, review the content but declined to say exactly what the Submitting Entries: Each school must sub- required steps. note will include. mit all entries via the Spring Meet Entry online Best of Luck. Contact me if you need assis- The Constitution & Contest Rules category de- system. Links to this system can be found on the tance. UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 Journalism • 5 The search is on ... Finding competent judges must be a priority for district competition he phone from normal, run-of-the-mill journalism. For in- I strongly recommend having at least one c o n v e r s a - stance, students are not doing any interviewing teacher on your judging panel. (Sidebar: For re- Ttion went (except at state, and even that is canned). gional competition, I will appoint one teacher to something like this. UIL journalism is more about the skill of help judge every contest. If your students advance, “I read the news writing under deadline and identifying the most I may be calling on you.) prompt for the UIL important, interesting information and putting it If you still can’t find judges after you have ex- journalism contest, and into a cohesive, well-written story. hausted every avenue, email me (jeacton@mail. I don’t believe you gave Thus, because it is different, it is imperative utexas.edu), and I will try to help you find judges enough information. I that we have judges that understand this. We need in your area. Jeanne Acton was just calling to let judges who understand that finding the “news peg” Once you get your judges, make sure you take Important Journalism Director you know that I am in the news story is a must. We need judges who care of them. going to add some in- allow students to set scenes for the feature stories. Pay them. It doesn’t have to be much, but pay Dates formation for the story We need judges who bother to read the UIL judging them something for their services. If you don’t on the blackboard before the students start the criteria BEFORE ever judging one story. have funds to pay judges, then offer to judge for Feb. 1 contest,” the caller said. District contests are right around the corner, them. Newspapers due for “Um. No. No, you’re not.” I responded. and I know teachers have started to scramble to Feed them. Judging takes hours to do well. ratings “But, the students need more. They need to find qualified judges for the contests. It’s not always Make sure they have food. A hungry judge is an see previous articles. They need more informa- an easy task. But usually, it’s not impossible. unhappy judge. Food is a must. Feb. 1 tion,” he said. In a perfect world, you would have a panel of Educate them. If they have never judged a UIL “Um, (again, I was confused) no, no they don’t. judges – three is a good number. Big enough to journalism contest, teach them. Give them the IAA entries due They will do just fine writing a story with only get the job done in a timely fashion and small judging criteria. Give them the prompts. Give the prompt information.” enough to feed without going bankrupt. them the sample story. Insist that they read it all Feb. 1 In the end, I think I was able to explain to the To fill your judging slots, start with teachers. BEFORE they start judging. Online caller that the news prompt really was okay just Use other journalism teachers in your area who Help them understand the importance of com- registration begins the way it was. And that if he wrote additional are not in your district. You can return the favor ments on the entries. Every paper should have for ILPC Spring information on the board, it would only confuse the when they host their districts. Journalism teachers comments. If they don’t want to write directly Convention students and violate the rules of the contest. are by far the best judges. on a student’s paper, give your judges the contest I will be the first to admit that the journalism If you can’t find enough journalism teachers, rubric sheets. Students need feedback. They need March 1 prompts may not be perfect. I may miss a comma search for retired journalism teachers in your area. to understand the strengths and weaknesses of Max Haddick Teacher here or there. Or I may forget end quotation Often, they will gladly judge for you. their entry. of the Year and Edith marks. But the prompts always have enough If you still have openings, try local journalists Don’t forget to thank the judges. I am sure the Fox King nominations information to write a story. Usually there is too and college professors, but it is your job to make highlight of their year will be reading my well- much information. sure they understand the judging criteria and crafted, super-interesting prompts, but just in case due So this phone call only reinforced my belief contests. To help them if they are new to judging it’s not, send them a thank you letter. Write a letter that we must have people who understand UIL UIL contests, I suggest you send them a practice to their principal praising them for their help. Give March 1 journalism running the contests and judging the packets so they can become familiar with UIL them a big hug at the end of the night. Convention contests. prompts and expectations before coming to the Do something. You will need them again next proposals due It’s no secret that UIL journalism is different contest. year. And so will your students. ILPC Spring Convention right around the corner, April 8-9 In just a less than three months, we will host We mailed directions out this week, but if you at 21st and Speedway. the 78th Annual ILPC Spring Convention, April didn’t get them, you can download them from our What the move means is, almost every break- 8-9, at the University of Texas at Austin. Web site at: http://www.uil.utexas.edu/academ- out session will be in the same building. I can The keynote speaker this year is Henry Robles, ics/journalism/ilpc_forms.html. already hear the cheers from the students, advisers a former ILPC winner, who now writes for the TV Online registration begins Feb. 1 and ends April and students. series Cold Case and InJustice. 3. After April 3, you must register on-site. Another good change is the date. The con- Our featured, out-of-state speakers include: Jim We had several journalism teachers test the vention is more than a week earlier this year. No Jordan from California, James Kenney from Ken- online system to ensure a user-friendly system. conflict with TAKS, JEA, Easter, etc. Hopefully, tucky, David Knight from South Carolina, Terry Hopefully, registration will be a pleasant and easy more of you will be able to join us this year. Nelson from Indiana, Betsy Rau from Michigan process for you. If you have questions, please don’t Advisers remember that convention propos- and Scott Winter from Nebraska. I think we hit hesitate to call (512) 471-5883. als are due March 1. We would love to have you every part of the U.S. Another change is the location. While we are share your wisdom, tips, stories, experiences ... This year we have a few changes. Mostly still at UT, the University moved the convention with other students and advisers. good, I think. to the University Teaching Center (where the If you have questions or concerns, give me a call First, all registration must be completed online. conference was a few years ago). UTC is located or drop me an email: [email protected]. UIL Leaguer 6 • Theater January/ February 2006 Hootin’ and hollerin’ (Not exactly theatre behavior) Teachers must teach students appropriate behavior for live performances ’ve waited a with the human element that makes up a part of critic judging workshops. Our special thanks to while before that mystic communion that is live performance. San Antonio Reagan and Milano High Schools Iwriting this ar- How often are our children taken to see plays, for providing demonstration scenes. I also want to ticle because I thought assemblies or other live events? How often are thank David Allen and the students from Midland it was more relevant as they lectured or perhaps even threatened about College for providing their special performance of we got closer to start- proper etiquette in a theatre? Riders to the Sea for the Ethics Workshop. ing this contest year. They are so focused on other priorities that Many new judges were added to the TETAAO Probably for the first we sometimes neglect to teach them those life list and many came in to be recertified. Those of time in this contest’s skills that are so important to becoming a part of you who have failed to contract your judges by Luis Muñoz history, the State Meet a healthy society. now will have additional people to work with. Finalists in the One Act Play Director Contest Manager was As teachers of theatre, it is our responsibility The list was published in the Leaguer and is on 2006 Theatrical forced to scold the au- to educate not only our students but our com- the UIL Web site. Design Contest dience during the 2005 munity about what is acceptable in our theatres The Fifth OAP A-Z workshop took place on Conference 5A contest. and cinemas. Saturday. Most of those workshops were stand- GROUP The circumstances that led to this interrup- Take the time to create handouts and study ing room only. School tion in the contest are not unique. How often is guides to help our elementary teachers prepare Our thanks to Marion Castleberry, Cathy Princeton a beautifully performed play or film or lecture or their students before they come and see one of Huvar, Kim Frederick, Perry Crafton, Jerry Ayers, Harper even religious service interrupted by the sound your performances. Take time before the perfor- Craig Hertel, Kathy Powdrell, Travia Steward, Mineola of a cell phone? mance to do a creative presentation on what is Beryl Knifton and Kelly Russell for sharing their Judson A friend recently told me he had heard someone acceptable during the performance. expertise. Lewisville - Marcus answering a cell phone at a funeral. The worst part Ask teachers at the higher levels to discuss Title Cards Plano Sr was this adult made the choice to take the call. the issues of audience behavior in their classes. Title cards were mailed out the middle of Janu- “Do you hear me now?” Unfortunately, yes! This ignorance of what is right or wrong during ary and should have been delivered by the time I can’t begin to tell you how much I depend a live performance has become a major problem you read this article. COSTUME on my cell phone, but there is a time and place. that transcends the disruption of a performance. Don’t forget to get those in by the Feb. 23 School The theatre is not one of those places, and a It threatens the very heart of respect. deadline and make sure you enclose a stamped self- Leander performance is not one of those times. I ask that each and every one of you take the addressed envelope for your eligibility notice. Pflugerville Last year I received a complaint about a par- time to talk to your students and community before We inadvertently asked you to put a 37-cent Olney ticular contest. It had to do with an audience every level of UIL competition and ask them to postage on them. Please use a 39-cent stamp. Burkburnett being overzealous in its reaction to seeing its treat the students on stage with respect. On-line Registration NB Canyon hometown cast and then being chastised for the It is imperative that we nip this in the bud lest Your district should enter your zone and district Hale Center “over-the-top” behavior. one day we have to witness an attorney getting contests into the online entry system by Feb. 1. The parent communicating with me errone- drenched in Gatorade after a successful verdict. You MUST enter your OAP participants online SET ously concluded that the behavior was appropriate To Marion Sweatmon, Maurice Harris, the cast, to legally participate in this Spring Meet activ- School because the play contest was no different than crew and alternates of San Antonio Marshall’s ity. You must do this only for your first contest. Lewisville - Marcus football. production of The Rimers of Eldritch – our apologies Failure to do so will have the same ramifications I asked this person about her line of work, for the behavior during the fruits of your labor at as not submitting your eligibility notice on time. PUBLICITY and she informed me that she was an attorney. the 2005 State Meet. Both are due 10 calendar days before your contest. School I quickly asked if it was appropriate to cheer for Play and Set Approvals The process is simple. Klein the defense or yell out “Go Clarence!” when you By the time you read this, you may have re- All of you should check and make sure your favored the plaintiff. ceived responses to your set and script requests districts have set up the zones (if applicable) and “Of course not. That’s a court of law,” was and should be well on your way to casting and district meets on Feb. 2. If they haven’t, contact her answer. rehearsals. My congratulations to Jenny Nichols, the district chair immediately. “And this is the theatre,” was my response. Connie McMillan and the reading committee for It will be up to the District Executive Com- Like the court of law, theatre has its own set processing hundreds of entries. mittee to allow you into the contest if you fail to of standards for behavior. Hooting, hollering and If you have not received a response by Feb. 1, meet the deadline. whistling may be appropriate reactions at certain call the League office. Eligibility Notice sporting events but not in the theatre. Theatrefest 2006 The paper eligibility notice is also due 10 cal- Perhaps we have lost a generation to the un- I hope all of you were able to attend Theatre- endar days before the contest. DO NOT include feeling and electronic mediums of television and fest 2006. Betsy Cornwell, Kris Andrews and the names of students you think may be eligible film. These are mediums in which a performance their staff did a wonderful job of programming by contest date. is not affected by a viewer talking, sleeping, eating and organizing. The document asks the principal to certify the and walking around. The performers do not hear. The League staff was kept busy throughout eligibility of a student. They do not see. They do not feel, smell or taste. the five days. If a student becomes eligible after the notice Most important, they do not hurt. I want to thank Terry Lewis, Texas A&M is due, you may submit a substitution form per The electronic performing arts may have Corpus Christi and Roger Shultz, Texas A&M 902(g)(1)(B) of the Constitution and Contest Rules. created a society of viewers who have lost touch University, for serving as adjudicators during the Call us if you have questions regarding this. UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 Elem/JH • 7 Ad hoc committee created for JH OAP ne of the With that goal in mind, the UIL Advisory ers for junior high One-Act Play competition. best things Committee of TETA has established an ad hoc 1. Your play DOES have to be approved. Oabout work- committee to study the needs of the junior high Approved lists of plays are provided on the UIL ing at UIL is the oppor- program and come up with some recommendations Web site in the Theatre/One-Act Play section. tunity to meet so many for the UIL Legislative Council. If your play is not on these lists, you must follow great people from so Junior high OAP was initially offered simply the approval procedures described in Section many different educa- as an extension of the high school program, and 1033(c)(1)(A) of the C&CR. A play that has tional disciplines. This as a result, the contest rules basically amount not been approved may not be performed at a month I’ve been able to “follow the high school rules but with these UIL contest. Keep in mind that approval requests to get to know a group exceptions.” must be submitted at least four weeks prior to David Trussell I had not worked with The consequence of this structure has been the contest. Elem/JH Director much previously — our confusion, as junior high directors must navigate 2. Your contest MUST use a certified critic theatre teachers. I had the extensive rules for the high school contest judge. The theatre section of the Web site also the pleasure of attend- and then try to figure out which ones do and includes a lengthy list of certified critic judges ing this year’s convention of the Texas Educational don’t apply. One of the ad hoc committee’s top from all areas of the state; your contest judge must Theatre Association, which was much larger priorities will be the development of a separate come from this list. Important and broader in scope than I ever would have and complete set of contest rules that are specific 3. All contest rules MUST be followed, includ- Dates imagined. to junior high OAP. ing the ranking of plays from first through third It’s very heartening to see that in spite of tight It’s too early in the process to know exactly places. Using ratings instead of rankings is not Jan. 31 budgets and high-stakes testing, fine arts educa- what direction the committee’s work will go, but acceptable for a UIL contest. Last date for fall/win- tion is thriving in Texas, and theatre education there is universal agreement on the need to provide 4. You do not have to submit enrollment or ter district meets in particular. more information that is specifically tailored to title cards to the League office. One-Act Play is rapidly becoming one of the our junior high directors. Some additional information is provided in most popular components of our junior high/ Along those same lines, Luis Muñoz and I have the A+ Handbook, and of course the complete Feb. 1 middle school academic program. discussed the possibility of providing a separate reference is the One-Act Play Handbook. While First date for spring High school theatre directors I’ve talked to contest guide just for junior high OAP. We cur- it may seem that there are lots of rules for One- district meets are thrilled with the growth of the middle school rently recommend that junior high directors Act Play, those rules have been developed over program; students who are able to participate in purchase the One-Act Play Handbook, which many years with the best interests of students in OAP in junior high or middle school are much will always be a valuable resource for directors at mind. And the rules are revisited and revised better prepared not only for high school theatre any level. Luis has taken some very helpful steps regularly to adjust for changing times and needs, classes, but also for the high school OAP contest. to make the handbook more accessible for junior which is exactly the process that is underway for Junior highs can truly serve as feeders for high high directors by highlighting those sections that junior high OAP. school programs in this regard. apply to both junior high and high school. Finally, some deadline reminders. The last date In addition to getting to meet some of our However, for a new junior high director who for fall/winter district meets is Jan. 31. Fall/winter outstanding Texas theatre educators and hear may have limited theatre experience, the OAP contest materials may be returned to contestants some intriguing presentations, one of my main Handbook can be a fairly intimidating document. starting on Jan. 31. reasons for attending the TETA convention was Again it’s very early in the process, but we’ll look Spring district meets take place between Feb. to solicit some feedback on the junior high OAP at options ranging from significantly expanding 1 and May 15; contest materials may be returned program. the OAP section in the A+ Handbook to creating beginning on May 15. We want to ensure that as participation grows, a completely separate publication. The last date for hosting invitational meets is the program is truly designed to meet the needs So there are a great many developments to April 1, which is also the first date those contest of our middle and junior high schools. come, but for now here are a few important remind- materials may be returned. Wolski: Former coach takes on waiver officer position continued from page 1 at William Adams Junior High School. Wolski master’s of education degree at Sul Ross State Spike Dykes (former Texas Tech head football worked at Mexia, Odessa Permian and Shallowater University while also teaching history, health coach), who encouraged him to become a coach. from 1972-1978, then was hired as the assistant and driver’s ed. “When he came into Coahoma, I wasn’t one football coach at Midland Lee. He worked at Lee In 1989, Wolski left Lee to work as the Assis- of the best kids in town,” Wolski says. “He told during the Friday Night Lights controversy. tant Executive Vice President of the Texas High me ‘I’m gonna try to make a citizen out of you.’ “I have a picture of me patting the back of the School Coaches Association, where he worked He spent a lot of time with me, and told me I was guy that lost the coin flip,” Wolski says. “I felt for 15 years until retiring in 2004. He came out going to college. Before that, college wasn’t even real bad for that guy.” of retirement in August last year to work as the a thought in my mind, but he told me if I went to While at Lee, Wolksi wore many hats. He was UIL’s waiver officer. college, he would hire me as a coach.” hired as the assistant football coach and later took “It was a job in which I felt I could help kids After receiving his degree from Angelo State on additional responsibilities. and coaches,” Wolski says. “I thought the UIL University in 1970, with a major in physical edu- He served as the track coach, cross country would be a great place to work. It’s different to cation and a minor in history, Wolski began his coach and even as the Dance Chairman. Dur- experience the process from the inside as opposed coaching career working for Dykes in Alice, Tex., ing his time at Lee High School, he earned his to looking from the outside in.” UIL Leaguer 8 • Music January/ February 2006 PML should raise musical standards t’s hard to be- fully appreciate music for the true art form it is. Jeff Rice (Chair) – Midway High School , lieve. The cur- In musical terms, we become what we experi- Waco, Irent Prescribed ence. Works of excellent composers, works that Denise Eaton – Spring High School, Spring Music List is now in creatively integrate and develop musical material Dianna Jarvis – Bush Middle School, San its third year of utiliza- — that is what is required.” Antonio tion. Thus, we are less The words of Kodaly might also serve as a Dinah Menger – Arlington High School, than 24 months away guide. He said, “Children should be taught with Arlington from the publication only the most musically valuable material. For Leslie Tanner – De Leon Middle School, of a new edition. The the young, only the best is good enough!” Who McAllen production of such can argue with that statement? Band Richard Floyd a document requires Dr. Jay Gilbert, Chair of the Music Department Danny Prado (Chair) – retired, Grapevine Director of Music countless hours of work at Doane College, has done extensive research in High School, Grapevine and the contributions areas pertaining to the identification and selection Mike Brashear – Berkner High School, Rich- of a multitude of public of quality repertoire. He argues that exposure to ardson school music educators, university professors and music considered to be of high quality has a direct Mike Brown – Shadow Ridge Middle School, studio faculty throughout Texas. By the time the impact on the development of personal musical Flower Mound project is complete, the various committees will taste. He goes on to state that the process for Greg Countryman – Fort Settlement Middle have perused some 4,000 titles and reevaluated nurturing that sense of high quality is dependent School, Sugar Land the 18,000 selections in our current edition. No upon regular interaction with masterworks (in- Dennis Fisher – University of North Texas, small task! strumental and vocal) through both performance Denton As strategies for the project are developed and listening. Diane Gorzycki – Bailey Middle School, Austin the primary question becomes, “What philoso- If we accept these principles, we then must Richard Lovelace – New Boston High School, phy should drive this process?” In other words, guard against the temptation of being content New Boston what criteria should guide the work of the com- simply teaching technique, tone quality and Orchestra mittees? performance skills. We must program music that James Edwards (Chair) – Westlake High In a recent exchange with a well-known allows us to approach the expectations that are School, Austin publisher, I made the statement that the purpose central to the philosophy of these three gentle- Dixie Addington – Beck Junior High School, of the PML is to channel directors and students men. Through our bands, choirs and orchestras Houston to quality repertoire and repertoire that expands we must program music that defines musical taste Leigh Ledford – Beverly Hills Intermediate, ADDRESS TMAA their awareness of a variety of musical styles and and builds expectations for a life long “love affair” La Porte CORRESPONDENCE creative compositional thought. with music of the highest quality. Chris Reidlinger – Kingwood High School, TO: And, that there should always be an element If you couple these beliefs with the reality that Kingwood Dr. Jay Dunnahoo of the list intended to raise standards and enrich the music of the PML serves as a basis for the vast Jeff Turner – Plano Senior High School, Plano Executive Secretary Texas Music musical tastes rather than validating existing majority of our units of study, the challenge is More contact information is available on the Adjudicators expectations. clear. It is essential that the content of our lists UIL Web site. The primary work of the committee Association Frank Battisti, former conductor at the New represent the very best repertoire available for will unfold during the summer of 2006. Between 410 Coronado Dr. England Conservatory of Music and recognized every discipline and at every performance level. now and these summer meetings every effort is Kerrville, TX 78028 830/792-5224 authority on repertoire, has this to say about music This philosophy will guide our committees. being made to provide ample opportunities for Fax: 830/792-5917 selection: “The kind of music you perform truly The process has begun. Primary committees offering suggestions, recommendations and other matters. While the music students study will have been appointed in the areas of Choir, Band valuable input. This is your opportunity to be a help them develop musicianship and technical and Orchestra: part of the process. skills, only the best music will allow students to Choir Take time to plan and reflect before contest season arrives By Bryan Buffaloe As contest time draws near, I urge you to review music on the list to be successful at contest. TMAA Orchestra Vice-President the procedures and expectations contained in the Adjudicators are looking for quality in the Here we are in what is commonly referred to UIL Constitution and Contest Rules. material you perform, not the quantity or difficulty as “crunch time.” Most important refresh your understanding of of music you attempt to perform. As we begin preparing for solo and ensemble, the criteria for Division ratings to help raise your Personally as a TMAA judge, I have seen region and all-state events, UIL Contest, spring standards and approach to teaching the music. many fine ensembles perform poorly at UIL simply trips, banquets, end of the year concerts and stacks Take time to exchange thoughts and ideas with because the selections were beyond their ability of paperwork, it is easy to forget what we love most colleagues to freshen your approach toward the and maturity level. about our jobs — teaching and making music. tasks before you. Thus, it is wise to choose literature that will Before the mad rush to meet deadlines begins, One of the most difficult tasks of preparing for feature the best assets of your ensemble while still I challenge you to plan carefully and reflect upon UIL is the process of selecting the appropriate challenging them. what it takes to make all of these events successful. literature for your ensemble. A primary goal must be that students learn Not for us as the directors, but for our students When selecting contest literature, keep in mind from the literature and develop the ability to that deserve our best. that it is not necessary to play the most difficult See Music, page 9 UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 News • 9 Lone Star Cup Standings

Current standings as of the Jan. 14, 2006, update for League City Clear Creek 16 pts. 2A the UIL and Texas Dodge Dealers’ Lone Star Cup are Amarillo 16 pts. 1. Argyle 38 pts. posted on the UIL Web site. Abilene 16 pts. The UIL and Texas Dodge Dealers will again pres- 2. Crane 28 pts. ent the award, honoring the best overall athletic and 3. Celina 26 pts. academic programs in Texas for the 2005-2006 school 4. Holliday 24 pts. year. 4A Poth 24 pts. 1. New Braunfels 32 pts. Now in its ninth year, the Lone Star Cup is awarded Omaha Pewitt 24 pts. Lewisville Hebron 32 pts to high schools that accumulate the most points based 7. Wall 22 pts. 3. Dallas Highland Park 30 pts. on their team performance in academic and athletic 8. Blanco 18 pts. 4. Boerne 24 pts. district and state championships. 9. Quitman 16 pts. 5. Friendswood 22 pts. Point standings updates are released throughout the Queen City 16 pts. Mesquite Poteet 22 pts. school year on the UIL Web site and the High School Jewett Leon 16 pts. Spotlight on Fox Sports Net, and official final results are Aledo 22 pts. Jacksboro 16 pts. announced by July 1. Brenham 22 pts. Little River Academy 16 pts. One school in each of the five UIL classifications 9. Hereford 20 pts Schulenberg 16 pts. (5A, 4A, 3A, 2A and 1A) will claim the coveted Cup. Klein Oak 20 pts. High schools accumulate points based on their team Austin McCallum 20 pts. performance in district and state championships. Corpus Christi Calallen 20 pts. The winning schools in each classification will receive 1A the Lone Star Cup trophy and a $1,000 award, also 1. Sundown 34 pts. presented by the Texas Dodge Dealers. 2. Windthorst 32 pts. The next update will be posted on March 25, 2006. 3A 3. Shiner 22 pts. 1. Decatur 28 pts. Current Lone Star Cup standings, which include march- 4. Big Sandy 18 pts. Canyon 28 pts. ing band, team tennis, cross country, volleyball, and 5. Milano 16 pts. football, are as follows: 3. Monahans 26 pts. Stratford 16 pts. Wimberley 26 pts. 7. Sulphur Springs North Hopkins 14 pts. 5. Bellville 22 pts. 5A Harper 14 pts. 1. Southlake Carroll 36 pts. 6. Bridge City 20 pts. Wink 14 pts. 2. Austin Westlake 23 pts. 7. Gilmer 18 pts. Abbott 14 pts. 3. Plano 22 pts. Mont Belvieu Barbers Hill 18 pts. Iola 14 pts. Katy 22 pts. Devine 18 pts. Harleton 14 pts. 5. San Antonio Churchill 18 pts. 10. Bonham 16 pts. Throckmorton 14 pts. Arlington Martin 18 pts. Texarkana Liberty Eylau 16 pts. Spring Branch Smithson Valley 18 pts. Gainesville 16 pts. 8. Plano West 16 pts. Tatum 16 pts. Deer Park 16 pts. Music: Select appropriate literature that will feature the best of your program Continued from page 8 and be a part of the process. On behalf of Texas Music Adjudicators Association, we apply it to future repertoire, rather than approaching Now is the time to begin rehearsing the sight-read- would like to extend our best wishes to each of you as you contest preparation like a vocabulary test where students ing procedure with your ensembles. It is never too early begin preparing for the upcoming UIL events. memorize the definitions for the test and forget it once to introduce your students to your style of sight-reading We hope you will take advantage of the opportunity the test is over. instruction as well as what you expect from them during to contact your TMAA Executive Board for guidance Take time to talk with your students about the music this portion of the contest. and support throughout the contest season. We are here you have selected. Consider using this process with your ensembles as you to serve you. Let them know what your goals are and what you want begin reading through music to play for the concert por- Finally, we encourage all of you to seek membership them to learn by playing it. Confide in them your reasons tion of the contest. Make a point of having your students in TMAA. Our desire is to see all qualified directors as for selecting certain pieces. read pieces at all grade levels so they are challenged both active members of this prestigious organization. As the In some cases, you may let your students have a part in technically and musically. new region alignments go into effect next fall and with choosing some of the pieces. Remember, adjudicators enjoy the groups that actually the expansion to 28 regions there will be an even greater Students tend to work harder and perform better when make music during their sight-reading, despite a few minor requirement for quality TMAA adjudicators. You can they have some invested interest. Let them take ownership defects in the performance. help us meet this growing need. UIL Leaguer 10 • Theater January/ February 2006 Theatrefest 2006

(Left) At Theatrefest 2006, special guest Eric Booth presents an active, hands-on session on “Keeping Arts Central in an Arts Integrated Curriculum” for theater teachers. Booth shared his guidelines and best practices from his work around the country and leading the Empire State Partnership Project in New York where 80 school districts explored arts integrated curriculum. (Above) Students who were cast for the workshop musical practice their dance moves for one of the songs in “Toby.” Students performed the musical at the end of the three-day workshop, sponsored by TETA and UIL. (Left) Rod Caspers, one of the directors for the musical, works with the students to help them find focus before rehearsal. The rehearsals were open for directors to observe. Photos by Jeanne Acton Additional judges added to the 2005-06 UIL-approved TETA’s OAP critic judges list Changes, Additions, Confirmations and 703 Enid Street christopher.brock@cfisd.net [email protected] 512/299-9867. (2) Whitney Smith, (Baylor University) Deletions as of January, 2006 of the 2005-2006 832/528-6887 (1) Rachel Mattox, 10823 Pepper Lane, 5101 Sanger Ave #1302, Waco, Tx 76710 whit- UIL approved Texas Educational Theatre Asso- (2) Mike Fernandez, (Abilene Christian Uni- Houston, Tx 77079 rachelmattox@houston. [email protected] 316/706-4147. ciation Adjudicator Organization’s OAP Critic versity) 2642 Button Willow Ave., Abilene, Tx rr.com 713/468-2208. (2) Dawne Swearingen, (Abilene Christian Judges published in October and November in 79606 [email protected] 325/690-4150 (2) Graham Northrup, (Baylor University) University), 3367 South 27th Street, Abilene, the Leaguer. (2) Melissa Green, Hardin Simmons Uni- 5520 Windsor Ave, Waco, Tx 76708 graham_ Tx 79605 [email protected] 325/674- * = TETAAO recommended Area/Region versity, HSU Box 14864, Abilene, Tx 79698 [email protected] 254/754-2778 2065. Judge [email protected] 325/670-1404 (2) Alex Peevy, (Paris Junior College) 1703 (2) Ronald Watson, San Antonio College, (1) = Independent (1) K.J. Hallmark, PO Box 1386 Brady, Neathery, Paris, Tx 75460 [email protected] 1300 San Pedro Ave., San Antonio, Tx 78212 (2) = College/University Employee Tx 76825 [email protected] 325/597- 903/366-1019 [email protected] 210/785-6098. (3) = Public School Employee 4123 (2) Micky Pelletier, (UT-Pan- American (2) Shawn Watson, UT-Permian Basin, (4) = Private School Employee (3) Jeanne Hamilton, (McKinney ISD) 4112 University), 1820 Clay Tolle #77, Mission, Tx 4901 East University Ave., Odessa, Tx 79762 ( ) = Institution affiliation Merriman Dr., Plano, Tx 75074 ruh570@aol. 78572 [email protected] 956/358- [email protected] 432/570-1418. I, II, III, IV = Approximate Region of com 972/422-4583 5096. The following judges have re-certified their Residence (2) Wade Hescht, North Harris College, (3) Denise Rodrigue, (Grand Prairie ISD) credentials and will be current until 2011, up- [ ] = Year Re-certification Required 2700 WW Thorne, Houston, Tx 77073 1026 NW 8th Street, Grand Prairie, Tx 75050 dates to addresses and bios have been made to THE FOLLOWING JUDGES A HAVE [email protected] 281/618-5641 972/642-2505. the website for these and others: Aaron Adair, BEEN ADDED TO THE LIST- bios are on the (2) Kyle Kennedy, Stephen F. Austin State (1) Marisol Sandoval, 911 W Collins Street, Jerry Cotton, Scott Crew, Lucien Douglas, Clay UIL Web site: University, PO Box 6090 SFA Station, Na- Denton, Tx 76201 [email protected] Grizzle, Maria Hascall, Jerry Ivins, Ray Karrer, (3) Greta Brasgalla, (Montwood HS)1821 cogdoches, Tx 75962 [email protected] 940/349-0060. James Kemmerling, B.J. Machalicek, Maureen Pueblo Alegre, El Paso, Tx [email protected] 936/468-1112. (2) Mike Schraeder, (Baylor University) 412 McIntyre, Mariana Jones Meaders, Curt Meyer, 915/857-7250 (4) Jason Kruger, St. Andrew’s School, Owen Lane, Riesel, Tx 76682 mike@secondth Ray Newton, John Ore, Mark Pickell, Ricky (3) Christopher J. Brock, (Cy-Fair ISD) 1112 W 31st Street, Austin, Tx 78705 oughttheatre.com 214/679-2692. Ramon, Rick Roemer, Richard Turner. UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 News • 11 How to build an Elem/JH program Texas Book Festival/UIL Joseph Johnson of difference. Our best coordinators are well dations. Mistakes have been made in the past North East ISD Fine Arts Department organized, which lessens the workload for the and I’m sure they will be made in the future. sponsor fiction Humble Beginnings event coaches. They also serve as cheerlead- The only thing a tournament administrator When I joined the district’s Fine Arts De- ers by making sure the students’ successes are can do is to recognize when a mistake has partment as an assistant to Diana Schumacher, recognized by the entire school. been made, try to correct it and make sure it writing contest the North East ISD Executive Director for 3. Encourage parent involvement. We doesn’t happen again. By allowing everyone The University Interscholastic Student Activities, one of my responsibilities have at least 50 parents helping with judging, a voice in running the tournament, everyone League and Texas Book Festival was to coordinate UIL meets for our middle hospitality and concessions. We have several feels ownership and is more understanding are sponsoring the fifth annual schools. Dr. Richard Middleton, the District parents who regularly attend tournaments when a problem does occur. Fiction Writing Contest. Superintendent and the Associate Superinten- because they enjoy the experience and ap- 7. Always look to improve the tourna- Texas junior high and high dent for Campus Support, Dr. Mark Scheffler, preciate the learning environment. ment. We are constantly looking to better school students are invited to sub- understand the importance of UIL and felt 4. Plan ahead. Almost all of the mistakes the tournament. Spelling tests consumed a mit a piece of original fiction, no the promotion of the activity would be best we made were due to last minute planning. tremendous amount of people power to grade more than 2,000 words in length, served by creating an interest at the middle It is very easy to become complacent after and were always the last events to be com- to be judged by Texas authors school level. running a couple of tournaments. After three pleted before our awards ceremony. Last year scheduled to appear at the 2006 Diana and I had our work cut out for years and 15 tournaments, I still find ways of we changed the schedule and moved spelling Texas Book Festival Oct. 28-29 us. Starting any district-wide activity must forgetting things if I wait to the last minute. to an earlier time slot and reduced the words in Austin. include the support of administrators. We While my wife has finally convinced me to list by half for the practice meets. The coaches Winners will be invited to knew the starting of the UIL programs would use a checklist for planning the meets, there felt the reduction of words would not affect an awards presentation during rest upon the school principals motivating is nothing better than a proper amount of the outcome and would still provide the stu- the opening ceremony of the their staff to take on the challenges of a new preparation to lessen the effect of Murphy’s dents with a realistic practice for the district festival. activity. We eased any reservations they had Law when running a tournament. tournament. The decision also helped other Entries should focus on the by providing them with information about Our season is planned at the end of the events because we now had more help from theme, “The River of No Return.” the activity and assuring them assistance with previous year and is placed on the district- graders who were normally busy grading the Judges will look for excellence in their programs. wide activity calendar. We try to avoid as spelling tests. use of dialogue, character develop- The second challenge was finding outstand- many conflicts as possible when deciding the 8. Grow with the interest. The running of ment, setting, plot, conflict and ing individuals to become school coordina- dates. The dates are becoming easier now that our tournaments is fairly routine at this point. resolution. tors. Once the principals were on board, they we are in our fourth year because we have We are now adding new events to our meets to Entries should be submitted in recruited teachers who had the organizational consistently kept the same dates and are now encourage more interests. We held a Lincoln 12-point type, double-spaced hard skills as well as the optimistic attitudes to becoming established. I also have found that Douglas debate tournament during our district copy and on floppy or computer encourage other teachers to participate. sending out the entries one month prior to tournament last year and will introduce the disk. Schools may submit multiple The third challenge was figuring out how the tournament, with several reminders during social studies test this year. While LD debate entries per disk. Each entry must to actually host a meet. I had several years of the deadline period gets the best results. Last is not currently an official UIL middle school be titled. experience running speech and debate tour- minute changes are inevitable but most of the event, we wanted to encourage this event Deadline for receipt: June 1, naments for high school and middle schools changes will be minor if there is enough time because it is growing in popularity. We want 2006. but I had never run a UIL tournament before. to properly plan for the tournament. to develop a strong feeder system for our high Entries will be submitted We decided to start off small and offered only 5. Communicate the plan of action for school UIL programs, which includes LD de- in three divisions: Grades 7-8; five events for our first practice meet. Several running a tournament with the coaches bate. We held the preliminary rounds on Friday Grades 9-10; Grades 11-12. mistakes were made and the tournament ran and teachers. I cannot express how excep- and incorporated the elimination rounds in Schools are limited to three entries severely behind schedule, but we survived. tional the group of teachers and parents are our regular Saturday schedule. The event was per division. The second tournament ran much smoother that regularly run our tournaments. We start very successful, so we have applied to the UIL There is no entry fee. and the awards ceremony was only a half an off each tournament with a 30-minute staff council to consider making it an official event Ten finalists will be selected hour late. By the third tournament, we finally meeting before the first events begin. We for sixth, seventh and eighth graders. per division. ran solidly on time and haven’t had a late briefly go over proctoring, grading and judg- 9. Reward and recognize as many people Prizes will be awarded to the tournament again. ing procedures and request that people who as possible. We started out recognizing only first, second and third place finish- Keys to Success do not have assignments help where they are the top six students in each event and divi- ers per division. Last year’s tournaments were twice as big as needed. We explain all questions and problems sion. We now recognize the top ten students. First place winners will be the first year tournaments and ran like a well- should only be handled in the tab room. Test We also recognize schools for increased par- invited to Austin to an awards oiled machine. The achievements and success proctors and judges are told to pick up their ticipation. Some of our smaller schools have ceremony during the 2006 Texas can be credited to a group effort. Here are a material 15 minutes before the test. Unassigned doubled the size of their entries so we make Book Festival. few tips for success in tournaments. coaches are put on standby. By communicating sure to congratulate them during our morning Winning entries will be pub- 1. Seek promotional help from administra- these instructions we eliminate late starts for meetings and award ceremonies. NEISD also lished on the Texas Book Festival We were fortunate enough to have the tors. rounds and tests. awards a Middle School Cup, equivalent to Web site at www.texasbookfesti- leadership from our superintendent and associ- 6. Invite comments and criticism. The the UIL Lone Star Cup. The Cup has become val.org. ate superintendent, but the school principals tournaments run smoothly today because of a sought-after goal for students, coaches and For additional information, had a major role in getting the students and the numerous suggestions and comments from administrators alike. The award is divided contact: teachers involved. coaches, coordinators and parents. The tourna- into a small and large school division and Bobby Hawthorne 2. Work closely with the school coordina- ments are products of having an “open” policy recognizes the schools’ athletic and academic [email protected] tors. A good coordinator can make a world towards constructive criticism and recommen- successes together. UIL Leaguer 12 • News January/ February 2006 continued from page 1 the last 10 years and single-handedly The UIL Sponsor Excellence Award created the UIL Academic Team at winners for 2005 are as follows: Caney Creek High School. Sponsor Under his direction, his students have Linda Coates won the cross examination debate state Medina High School championship the last two years, and Linda Coates has sponsored UIL cross have won numerous district and regional examination debate, prose interpretation, championships in Lincoln-Douglas poetry interpretation, informative and Excellence debate, informative speaking, poetry persuasive speaking, ready writing, and interpretation, prose interpretation and dictionary skills for 15 years. Her students persuasive speaking. have won numerous junior high district “I believe that competition is a key championships, one high school district component in creating relevance in academic championship, and she has had Award the curriculum,” said Kelly. “Through several medalists and competitors at the competition, students are able to apply Academic State Meet. She continues what they have learned in an atmo- to serve as the Medina Junior High UIL sphere that encourages confidence and Academic Coordinator and coach for UIL Winners competence.” speaking events at the junior high and high school levels. Hector Limon “Schools are arenas of constant compe- Lubbock Estacado High School tition, providing opportunities such as UIL four years. Under her direction, Pine Tree He established the band and drumline pro- Hector Limon has coached UIL baseball for students to experience the competitive High School has won the academic team grams at Cypress Springs High School and for 25 years, the last five of which have been nature of the adult world in a relatively con- district, regional and state championships. increased participation from 42 students to at Estacado High School. His teams have trolled environment,” she said. “Ultimate Her yearbooks have received the Award of the current 214 students. He has received been district champions for the last two competition takes place within, setting the Distinguished Merit for 17 years and have numerous first division ratings in concert, years and have made the regional semifinals bar higher after each competition. This step been recognized with Star Awards the last sight-reading and marching band perfor- the last three years. He has been named in growth ensures the success of students two years. mances and has had 10 students qualify to District 4-4A Coach of the Year four times entering today’s world.” “I am convinced those who compete the All-State Band. and is a member of the Lubbock Christian in UIL activities are motivated to reach “My philosophy mirrors that of my University Hall of Honor. Greg Dick beyond the commonplace and will be school’s mission,” said Holcombe. “All “My philosophy here at Estacado High Friendswood High School the leaders of tomorrow,” said Duncan. students need to be acknowledged for the School is to prepare all students to ready Greg Dick has been involved in UIL “Developing their skills and helping them gains they make and encouraged to try to themselves for a competitive society before music competition for 26 years, 21 of those reach their potential makes me a better exceed their current performance level.” they leave my door,” said Limon. “Playing at the junior high level. Under his direction educator and my community a better place baseball at Estacado High School and in the last five years, the band participation to live.” Denise Johnson entering society upon graduation go hand- numbers have increased by 50 percent, with Tarkington High School in-hand as our athletes are taught to respect 100 percent of those students participating Gail Herman Denise Johnson has coached UIL sports rules along with competing and striving for in UIL solo and ensemble competition. Sulphur Springs High School for 25 years at Tarkington High School. She excellence.” He has had 42 students qualify for The 2005-06 school year marks Gail has coached tennis for 20 years, volleyball the All-State Band and has received five Herman’s 25th year as a UIL spelling and for 19 years and basketball for 10. Under her Steven Nelms consecutive UIL Sweepstakes Awards in vocabulary sponsor, and her first as ready direction, the volleyball program was cre- McKinney North High School marching, concert and sight-reading. His writing sponsor. Her students have ad- ated and has advanced to the playoffs eight Steven Nelms has been a UIL choir marching band won the silver medal at the vanced to the UIL Academic State Meet times, once to the state tournament. sponsor for 22 years and a Texas State Solo State Marching band contest in 2003, and 20 of the last 24 years, earning three team She also has coached players to the re- & Ensemble sponsor for 18 years. He is was named 2005 TMEA Honor Band. state championships, four individual state gional tennis tournament 17 of her 20 years. the Chair of the Fine Arts department of “My role as a teacher is to encourage championships and numerous second She also serves as head tennis coach, year- McKinney North High School and is the my students to reach their full potential,” through sixth place awards. book advisor, marketing director, Student head choir director. he said. “I push my students to strive for “The lessons students learn from compe- Council sponsor, and FCA sponsor. He has received first division awards excellence, always exhorting them to do tition are the lessons of life,” said Herman. “I believe an important part of coaching for the last five years in concert and sight- a little more and to reach a little higher. “Students learn to prepare themselves, to is teaching kids to believe in themselves and reading, and his students have received Competition, I believe, is an integral part challenge themselves, to believe in them- take pride in everything they accomplish,” Outstanding Performer Awards for two of the educational process and because of selves. Students who can do these things said Johnson. “My philosophy includes consecutive years. it, my students excel far higher than they are more likely to lead happy, productive teaching kids to believe in themselves as “Competition, whether against a pre- ever thought they could.” lives.” winners, whether winning or losing, but determined standard of excellence or a when giving their all in competition.” face-to-face evaluation, is a critical com- Susan Duncan Russell Holcombe ponent in the process of achieving one’s Longview Pine Tree High School Cypress Springs High School William Kelly highest potential,” he said. “In the end, Susan Duncan has sponsored UIL jour- Russell Holcombe has been marching Caney Creek High School the final result of specific competitions is nalism events for 18 years, all of which she and symphonic band director at Cypress William Kelly has been a sponsor of UIL much less important than the legacy forged has been a yearbook advisor. Springs High School for nine years, and speaking events for 10 years and One Act by the spirit through which the challenge Additionally, she has served as Academic previously served as assistant director for Play assistant director for six years. He has was faced.” Coordinator and Spring Meet Director for four years at Cypress Falls High School. served as UIL Academic Coordinator for Continued on next page UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 News • 13 H-E-B Pharmacy-UIL Community Service Award More than $10,000 will be awarded to schools who improve their community For the fourth consecutive year, H-E-B Pharmacy and focused on healthcare or healthcare initiatives in the The recipients of the 2005 H-E-B Pharmacy-UIL Com- the UIL will award over $10,000 to high schools commit- community. munity Service Award include: ted to making their communities better. The project should address a specific need in the com- The H-E-B Pharmacy-UIL Community Service Award munity and increase awareness of health care issues. The 1A First Place was created in 2002 to reward Texas high schools for making winner of the health care service award receives a grand New Home High School a difference in their hometowns in an effort to enhance prize of $5,000. 1A Second Place their community’s way of life. All UIL member schools are encouraged to compete Granger High School The $1,000 award for first place, donated by H-E-B for the community service award through various service 2A First Place Pharmacy, will be awarded to one high school in each projects. Hico High School classification (1A-5A) to schools whose projects most To be considered for the award, projects must be positively affect their communities. completed by May 31, 2006, and documentation must be 2A Second Place Because of the incredible response to the community provided to the UIL on the official H-E-B Pharmacy-UIL Shallowater High School service award and the quality of the submissions, H-E-B Community Service Award nomination form by June 15, 3A First Place Pharmacy also will award $500 for second place projects 2006. Devine High School for each classification. H-E-B Pharmacy and the UIL hope to recognize out- 4A First Place The money, in turn, is to be used toward a future service standing Texas high schools that exemplify an admirable Sulphur Springs High School project sponsored by the school. sense of community spirit and giving. Best wishes to all 4A Second Place In 2004, a healthcare-related service project category schools for a successful Community Service Project! Mission Veteran’s Memorial High School was added to further H-E-B Pharmacy’s mission to be the The winner of the 2005 Healthcare Community Ser- 5A First Place provider of choice for a patient’s pharmacy healthcare vice Award for the second consecutive year was Crandall Klein Collins High School needs. High School. 5A Second Place The winner of the Healthcare Community Service The second place Healthcare Community Service San Antonio Taft High School Award must perform a service project that is primarily Award was San Angelo Central High School. Sponsor Excellence Award Winners continued Marilyn Rollins Actress awards. cause you will have improved, and that is concert competition consecutively for the Grandview High School “I believe that, when challenged, a winning for yourself.” last 12 years. Marilyn Rollins has been a sponsor of student will step up and try harder,” she “The music education experience is UIL accounting for 17 years, 13 of those said. “When they do, they discover their Dr. Max Thompson unique in that it demands all that a student as UIL Coordinator. She has also been a own self worth—the fiber of which they Redwater High School can give,” said Toups. sponsor of UIL mathematics events and are made.” Dr. Max Thompson has sponsored UIL “I strive to get successful results through debate throughout the years. Under her debate and speaking competitions for 17 UIL participation and competition which direction, her students have won district Sally Squibb years and prose and poetry interpretation for strengthens my students’ determination championships and have qualified for re- Lewisville High School three years. His students have been district to succeed and persevere to see his or her gional competition every year. Her students Sally Squibb has sponsored UIL speak- champions four years and have qualified for goals through.” have reached the UIL Academic State ing events for 27 years and has been UIL the state meet 35 times. Meet in both accounting and mathematics Academic Coordinator for 31 years. Ad- “As I walk through halls, visit class- Donna Wallace and had the first perfect paper in the State ditionally, she has sponsored UIL ready rooms, stroll through the cafeterias, I see Van High School Accounting Contest. writing since its inception as a UIL event potential,” he said. “I see students from all Donna Wallace has sponsored UIL ready “Keeping the competitive spirit alive in and has been a District Meet Manager for backgrounds and demographics and educa- writing and literary criticism for 17 years and our schools should be a fundamental part in seven years. tional strengths who are just waiting for an for the last 10 years has sponsored spelling all areas of competition as well as in daily Her students have competed at the UIL opportunity to succeed. UIL competition and vocabulary. life,” said Rollins. “Competition not only Academic State Meet 17 years, 11 of those can drive them there, and I am blessed to Additionally, she has been UIL Aca- teaches the individual but also helps instill in persuasive speaking. She has coached five be able to go along for the ride, one child demic Coordinator for the last five years the team concept at the same time.” state champions and has had several state at a time.” and has coached social studies, computer qualifiers in speaking events. science and accounting for the last two. Wanda Sessions “Ribbons will fade, scholarships run Rob Toups Her students have competed at the state Arlington High School out, trophies and plaques tarnish, but to Canton High School level in literary criticism and spelling and Wanda Sessions has sponsored UIL One know you survived the odds and became Rob Toups has sponsored UIL marching vocabulary. Act Play and speech and debate events for stronger in the process prepares you for the band, concert band and solo & ensemble for “All students deserve the right to go several years. Her students have qualified future when the risks are much greater,” the past 15 years. Under his direction, his beyond their classrooms,” said Wallace. to compete at regional meets, and won said Squibb. bands have won a bronze, silver and two gold “UIL provides this opportunity by allowing the 2005 5A One Act Play State Cham- “You’ll never know if you can win until medals at the last four UIL State Marching them to meet other goal-oriented students pionship. Her students have also received you know you’ve tried your best, and then Band contests. Additionally, his bands have like them, that have the desire to excel numerous All-Star Cast and Best Actor/ it doesn’t matter if you’ve won or not be- won Sweepstakes Awards in marching and and learn.” UIL Leaguer 14 • Sports January/ February 2006 Feb. 2 release date for reclassification and realignment he biennial in Conference 1A is determined by the number Q) Can a school be the smallest school in a UIL reclassi- of schools participating in an activity. conference by only one student? Tfication and In Conference 1A, schools with an enrollment A) We try our best to avoid this scenario. It is realignment process is of 99.9 or lower could choose to participate in more likely to happen in the lower classifications complete. This stressful six-man football. Six-man football schools were di- because the gap in enrollment decreases. time has many schools vided into two divisions for the next two years. Q) Why the secrecy? What harm is there in on edge as they await After determining the enrollment cut-off obtaining this information before Feb. 2? the Feb. 2, 2006 release figures, Conference 1A schools were further A) The UIL prides itself in being a public PUBLIC date. divided by membership figures for basketball. In servant with open meetings, public forums, read- REPRIMANDS On Oct. 28, 2005 Conference 1A, basketball schools were divided ily available information and interpretations. Charles Breithraupt every high school was into large schools (Division I) and small schools However, when it comes to the reclassification BASKETBALL Athletic Director Terry Collins, Hedley HS responsible for sub- (Division II). During the 2006-2008 alignment and realignment process, confidentiality is para- Allen Duncan, Nordheim mitting membership period Conference 1A basketball schools will mount because of the scheduling issues in football. HS figures. These numbers have been collected and use the same regional and state format as on all Releasing the information only after it has been Bryan Markham, verified. Following this data collection and verifi- other conferences. completed and proofed keeps schools and coaches Wheeler HS Lance Horsford, Strat- cation, UIL staff began to input information into Following these divisions by conference, map from spending an inordinate amount of time and ford HS the computer for further analysis. pins were placed on a Texas map to represent money on scheduling. It also gives all schools a Mike Kramer, Houston Programming the information for approximate- all schools in a conference. Schools were placed fair chance in the scheduling process. Bellaire HS ly 1,302 high schools in a very short time span is into districts keeping the following UIL policies Q) Why isn’t there a 6A Conference? Jaime Goins, Broaddus HS an enormous and tedious process. All information in mind: A) The Legislative Council has studied this Skyla Greene, Bastrop was again verified so we could be assured it matched a. Group geographically contiguous schools in issue. The conclusion was increased travel created HS information provided on the reclassification and groups of no more than 10 and place in districts by a 6A alignment would not be cost effective. realignment forms submitted by schools. From with even number of schools, except when that Travel would be limited for schools in metropoli- WRESTLING this point further analysis began. action causes an extreme hardship. Schools tan areas, which would generally be assigned to Blake Bryant, Austin The first step was to run a printout of a chrono- in a district in urban areas may not always be 5A and 6A. However, schools below 5A would Lanier HS logical listing of school enrollments in descending contiguous. have significant travel problems. Essentially in the order. This printout was done initially by enroll- b. Except in Conference 1A there will be 32 current format six conferences have been created ments without corresponding school names. In districts to facilitate playoff procedures (except in with the advent of two divisions in Conference essence we were working with a listing of numbers activities that do not have enough schools). 1A basketball and six-man football. in rank order without knowing which enrollments c. Multiple high school districts with more Q) What can one do to change the reclas- belonged to which schools so that we could be than one school in the same conference will have sification and realignment process? completely objective. those schools assigned to one district. A) Submit a proposal and/or make a presenta- At this stage, it was important to remember After these assignments have been made, UIL tion to the Policy Committee of the Legislative that policies developed by the UIL Legislative staff checked and rechecked the maps and alpha- Council in June. Any action taken by this com- Council were implemented. Policies for the 2006- betized and rank order listings of the schools to mittee would have to be approved by the Council 2008 reclassification and realignment process assure each school had been assigned. A computer in October. dictate that a maximum of 245 schools could be program assisted League staff in assigning districts. Q) Why aren’t the volleyball, team tennis assigned to Conference 5A in order to establish The program takes into consideration all Reclas- and cross country alignments released first since 32 districts. sification and Realignment policies and bases its they are fall sports? Another important step took place at this alignments simply in total mileage for all schools A) Football is released early because it is the time as the UIL staff simply counted down the within a conference. A sample run resulted in only sport in which contracts are signed. Basket- chronological listing of numbers until it reached over two trillion combinations of districts. This ball is released earlier than the other activities the established range using the 2.0 disparity ra- objective data aided UIL staff in determining final simply because all schools choose to participate in tio. At this stage, school names were reassigned district assignments. basketball. Thus we can assemble the alignment to the numbers that were submitted. Once the On Feb. 2 at 9 a.m. CST, the final results will knowing that the effect of appeals would not force cutoff was established, schools with enrollment be released through each of the 20 Educational us to change alignments in the other activities figures below the 5A line, which requested to Service Centers. At that time it will also be re- since significantly fewer school participate. Our play in a higher conference are moved into the leased via the Web. League staff is working with plan is to release all fall activities by March 1 and 5A Conference. Fox Sports Southwest to release information all other activities by May 1. Any school could request to be elevated one during a live television show. It is important to remember the UIL staff has conference for extreme travel or in multiple high A school dissatisfied with their assignment to see the entire picture during reclassification school districts of eight or more schools, provided may change districts only with unanimous con- and realignment. Individual schools may claim notification was submitted to the League office sent of all schools in both districts. Schools may dissatisfaction with their assignment because simultaneously with enrollment figures. At this appeal their district assignment to the District often times they see only one small portion of time approximately 200 schools were placed into Assignment Appeals Committee. The deadline the state. 4A based on a 2.0 disparity ratio. This same process for this appeal is Feb. 13. Appeals will be heard Trying to fit nearly 1,302 schools into 32 took place within all other conferences. on Feb. 20. districts in each of five conferences in a state en- This is important because Conference 1A con- Throughout the process there are several com- compassing approximately 254,000 square miles is sists of all schools which fall below the Conference monly asked questions. A few of those questions a challenging task. Our commitment is to be fair 2A enrollment. The number of districts assigned and answers are: to all of our schools. We hope you are pleased. UIL Leaguer January/February 2006 Sports • 15 State tournaments fill the spring calendar In addition to meets, staff is working to develop a weight-management program isten closely … can UIL follows National Federation of State High School maximum weight loss of 1.5 percent of a wrestler’s alpha you hear that sound? Associations (NFHS) Rules and the NFHS has revised body weight (weight at time of body fat assessment) per LIt is the sound of the the rules in reference to certification of minimum weight week has been established. A wrestler who loses more spring semester quickly rushing determination for wrestling. According to the NFHS press than 1.5 percent of their alpha body weight in a week is by. With the number of activities release announcing the change: Under the revised rule, ineligible to compete in the weight class to which they that occur during the spring, it beginning in 2006-07, stronger guidelines discouraging are descending. seems that as quickly as Janu- rapid weight loss will take effect. The revised rule includes A wrestler will not be allowed to wrestle at their estab- ary begins and students return a hydration level not to exceed a specific gravity 1.025, a lished minimum weight until the date specified on the UIL to school that summer is upon body fat assessment no lower than 7 percent (males)/12 Minimum Weight Certification Form or results provided Mark Cousins us, and we prepare for another percent (females) and a monitored, weekly weight loss by another appropriate entity. Athletic Coordinator school year. But before we all plan not to exceed 1.5 percent a week. Hydration testing and skin fold measuring may begin head out to catch some sun and “The weight-management rule change effective 2006- on the first day of school. All wrestlers, including those relax for a month or so, there is 07 is certainly monumental,” said Dave Carlsrud, assistant coming out late, must have their minimum weight estab- a bit of business to complete first. to executive secretary of the North Dakota High School lished by skin fold testing prior to any competition with State championships in the spring are many and flow Activities Association and chairperson of the NFHS Wres- a student from another school. In order for a student to back to back in some cases. Wrestling and swimming lead tling Rules Committee. “While weight management has participate in the championship series, skin fold measur- off our championships on Feb. 24-25. Both activities are been researched for many years and may have been passed ing must be completed by one week prior to the district held in Austin and information on schedules, etc. will be earlier, a number of our states needed time to prepare for certification deadline. available on the UIL Web site. an effective implementation.” The lowest weight class at which a wrestler may compete Girls’ and boys’ state basketball follow wrestling and Texas is one of those states, and we currently are de- will be determined as follows: swimming and the schedules for those appear in the Leaguer veloping a program that will be submitted to the Medical If the predicted weight, at 7 percent male/12 percent fe- this month. Schools (and thankfully our staff too!) get a Advisory Committee in April for consideration and will male is exactly that of one of the weight classes, that weight break between basketball and the Soccer State Champion- be effective for the 2006-2007 school year. class shall be the wrestler’s minimum weight class. ships in mid-April. Another short layoff comes before we The basics of the program are included below with If the predicted weight, at 7 percent male/12 percent finish up the school year with golf, tennis, track and field specifics to follow. As indicated by Federation rules, the female falls between two weight classes, the higher weight in May along with the softball and baseball tournaments UIL plans to ensure the safety of every Texas high school class shall be the wrestler’s minimum weight class. ending in June. Information about each of these events wrestler by implementing a Weight Certification and Con- For any male or female wrestler whose body fat percent- will be on the UIL Web site. trol Plan based on Hydration Testing, Body Fat Analysis age at the time of measurement is at or below 7 percent The UIL staff spends countless hours preparing for the and a Monitored Descent. At this time, the only method male/12 percent female, their minimum weight class will state championship events listed above, however, at the of assessing body fat that will be included in the initial be determined by their alpha weight (weight at the time same time we are also working on items to get ready for phase of the program is skin fold testing. of assessment). No weight loss will be allowed. the following school year and the other day-to-day duties Schools will be provided a list of contacts in their area An appeals process will be part of the program and that come along with the job. for hydration and body fat assessment. UIL is currently will allow the school or participant to request additional Dr. Breithaupt’s article included in this issue gives working to develop the list of contacts that will cover measurement if they are not satisfied with the results of information on the reclassification and realignment — a all areas of the state and provide a sufficient number of the primary assessment. tremendous undertaking — that was recently completed. qualified body fat assessors. As indicated earlier, the specifics of the program itself Also, we are currently working to develop a weight-man- In the plan, a wrestlers minimum weight class will be are still in the development phase. UIL hopes to have ad- agement program for implementation for the 2006-2007 determined by predicted body weight at 7 percent body ditional information to share with coaches at the Wrestling school year to certify minimum weight for wrestling fat for males and 12 percent body fat for females. State Championships and will present a more detailed plan participants. There will be monitored weight loss on the descent. A to the Medical Advisory in April. 2006 STATE BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Girls’ State Tournament Session 1 Session 4 Session 7 March 2-4 9 a.m. 2A Semifinal 9:30 a.m. 1A–Division II 10 a.m. 2A Final 10:30 a.m. 2A Semifinal Final 11:30 a.m. 3A Final 11 a.m. 1A–Division I Boys’ State Session 2 Final Session 8 Tournament 2 p.m. 3A Semifinal 4 p.m. 4A Final 3:30 p.m. 3A Semifinal Session 5 March 9-11 3 p.m. 5A Semifinal Session 9 Session 3 8 p.m. 5A Final 7:30 p.m. 4A Semifinal Session 6 9 p.m. 4A Semifinal 7 p.m. 5A Semifinal UIL Leaguer 16 • Offi cial Notices January/ February 2006

EFFECTIVE AUGUST 1, for the zone or district con- EL PASO PARKLAND HS Ted Knaszak from coaching that he allowed an ineligible ONE-ACT PLAY 2006 test shall be se lect ed by the The State Executive Committee any UIL activities (including player to participate. The State Executive Commit- Four teams will advance to the district ex ec u tive com mit tee; suspended Coach Humberto practices and games) through tee issued penalties to the playoffs in all team sports, judges for area and re gion al Ornelas, El Paso Parkland December 10, 2004, with PILOT POINT HS following schools for failure including football, in Confer- contests will be se lect ed from High School, from coaching probation through December The State Executive Commit- to participate in one-act play ence 5A only. those des ig nat ed as area and any UIL activities until he 10, 2006, for allowing tee issued a public reprimand during the 2004-05 school regional judges in the cur rent appears before the State students not listed on an with probation through August year: CORRECTION: The following ac cred it ed list of critic judg es Executive Committee for a eligibility list to participate in 2, 2006, to the boys’ athletic correction should be made by the contest man ag ers of hearing on allegations that he team tennis. program at Pilot Point High AUSTIN JOHNSTON HS on page 37 of the Academic these contests; and judges allowed ineligible students to School for violation of UIL Public reprimand and pro- Coordinator’s Manual and for the state con test will participate. UVALDE HIGH SCHOOL rules. bation through August 2, page 145 of the Spring Meet be approved by the State The State Executive Com- 2006. Manual: The last paragraph Di rec tor. A judge should not INTRA-DISTRICT mittee issued a public rep- BEN BOLT HS in column two describing the be se lect ed that would re sult TRANSFERS rimand to Coach Michael The State Executive Commit- DALLAS SPRUCE HS confl ict pattern should read: in any entry being eval u ated Section 440 (b) (3) Hernandez, suspended him tee issued a public reprimand Public reprimand and pro- “ Computer Science and by the same judge twice in This section allows students from the next two home with probation through August bation through August 2, Mathematics do not confl ict the same year. to be eligible in athletics basketball games of the 2, 2006, to Coach Jeffery 2006. and therefore may NOT be the fi rst year they have the 2005-06 season, and placed LaFevre and Coach Joe Vela held at the same time.” CALCULATOR opportunity to transfer to him on probation through for violation of Section 441 FORT WORTH APPLICATIONS that ISD’s vocational high January 9, 2008, for viola- (b).(3). POLYTECHNIC HS There is no change in the “The ratio of A to B” and the school, magnet school, or tion of Section 1208 (j) (3). Public reprimand and pro- confl ict pattern from last year. “ratio between A and B” are optional attendance area EVADALE HS bation through August 2, The correct confl ict pattern is each defi ned to be the result school as long as they MERTZON IRION COUNTY The State Executive Commit- 2006. posted on the UIL Web site. of the division, A/B. exercise that option at their ISD tee issued a public reprimand first opportunity. If the District 12-1A Executive with probation through August NORTH HOUSTON CORRECTION TO PAGE 147 SPRINGTOWN HS student leaves the vocational Committee issued a public 2, 2006, to Evadale High HS FOR BUSINESS OF THE 2005-06 SPRING T h e S t a t e E x e c u t i v e high school, magnet school, reprimand to Irion County School for violation of violating Public reprimand and pro- MEET MANUAL Committee issued a public or optional attendance ISD, required forfeiture of all the restriction on the number bation through August 2, The correct dates for ordering, reprimand, with probation area school and returns to games in which an ineligible of games played during the 2006. using and releasing UIL Invita- through March 24, 2007, the school of the parents’ student participated, placed school week in softball. tional A and Invitational B con- to Coach Cari Lowery for residence, the student is not the school district on proba- HOUSTON JORDAN HS test materials are as follows: violation of the Athletic Code eligible for varsity athletic tion though October 28, 2008, NORTH ZULCH HS Public reprimand and pro- • Deadline for ordering Invita- and state law. competition for at least and disqualifi ed the football The State Executive Commit- bation through August 2, tion A materials is December one year from the date of team for district honors for tee issued a public reprimand 2006. 10. This material may be used HOUSTON PREPARED TA BLE enrollment in the school two years. The State Execu- with probation through Octo- January 13 – February 4, CHAR TER SCHOOL of the parents’ residence. tive Committee reduced the ber 5, 2006, to North Zulch SAN ISIDRO HS – Public rep- and released on February 4. The State Executive Com- Additionally, if the student number of years the school High School for violation of rimand and probation through • Deadline to order Invitation mit tee suspended Pre pared fails to exercise their fi rst district was disqualifi ed for violating the restriction on August 2, 2006. B materials is January 10. This Ta ble Char ter School from all opportunity to attend that district honors in football from the number of games played material may be used Febru- UIL ac tiv i ties until a school ISD’s vocational high school, two years, to only the 2005- during the school week in EMPLOYMENT ary 10 through March 11, ad min is tra tor ap pears be fore magnet school, or optional 2006 school year. softball OF COACHES and released on March 11. the Com mit tee to an swer al le - attendance area school, Addition to Offi cial Interpreta- ga tions in volv ing mis con duct they would not be eligible BUFFALO HS DALLAS I AM THAT I AM tion #29 (Section 1033 [b] [5] These dates are printed cor- by coach and players. according to the Section The District 22-2A Executive ACADEMY and Section 1202): rectly in the offi cial calendar in 440 (b), Residence Rule, for Committee disqualifi ed the The State Executive Com- A full-time substitute who has the Constitution and Contest PLEASANT GROVE HS varsity athletics at the new Buffalo High School boys’ mittee suspended Dallas I coached during the school Rules and on page 15 of The State Executive Com- school until they had been basketball team from dis- Am That I Am Academy from year would be permitted to the Academic Coordinator’s mit tee issued a public repri- enrolled and consecutively trict honors for the 2003-04 participation in football for the continue coaching until the Manual. mand to Coach Craig Jones, attending the new school for school year and placed the 2005-06 and 2006-07 school UIL competitive year has ONE-ACT PLAY sus pend ed him from the fi rst one calendar year. team on probation through the years and placed the school ended. Example: state base- Correction to Con sti tu tion and two games of the 2005 base- 2005-06 basketball season. on probation in all activities ball playoffs. Contest Rules, Sec tion 1033 ball season, and placed him SAN ANTONIO In addition, the State Execu- through October 31, 2007 (d) (3) (C) on pro ba tion through August EAST CENTRAL HS tive Committee suspended for numerous violations of (C) Responsibility for Se- 17, 2006, for improper inter- T h e S t a t e E x e c u t i v e Coach Mike Anderson pend- UIL rules. lec tion of Judges. The judge action with a game offi cial. Committee suspended Coach ing a hearing on allegations Distribution rights The UIL mails 15 copies of each issue of the Leaguer to every public high school in Texas as well as copies to elementary and junior high schools that have returned their Par tic i pa tion Cards. The Leagu er con tains vital information re gard ing UIL ac tiv i ties. Please dis tribute these to coach es and spon sors of all UIL activities, and ask them to share their copy. Also, visit our web site (http://www.uil.utexas.edu). We rec ommend you distribute cop ies of the Leagu er to the following: Principal Speech Coach Librarian Journalism Adviser Academic Co or di nator UIL Academic Sponsors Athletic Director Band Director Head Coaches Theater Director