Cougars Athletics and Recreation Student-Athlete Handbook

COUGARS ATHLETICS AND RECREATION STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK

2018-2019

TEAMWORK We maximize our impact through collaboration.

INTEGRITY We are true to our word.

FUN We work and play in a creative and innovative way.

PERSONAL GROWTH We pursue development and learning experiences.

RESPECT We care for our people and place.

INTRODUCTION 4

COUGARS ATHLETICS and RECREATION 5

STUDENT AFFAIRS AND CAMPUS LIFE 5

DEPARTMENT EXPECTATIONS AND GUIDELINES 6

DISCIPLINARY ACTION 9

ACADEMIC POLICIES & PROCEDURES 12

ACADEMIC APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES 16

ATHLETE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE (AFA) 17

STUDENT-ATHLETE INSURANCE 19

STUDENT-ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITIES 20

ATHLETIC THERAPY CLINIC 24

DIRECTORY 26

APPENDIX - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS 29

Welcome to Mount Royal University and Cougars Athletics and Recreation!

You have made that important decision (and the right one) in becoming a MRU student and a Cougars student-athlete, congratulations. We are so excited that you are part of our family and look forward to being involved in the next years of your life.

Demands and expectations are placed on you as a student-athlete who represents a varsity program with Cougars Athletics and Recreation and a student of MRU that competes in the CWUAA and U Sports. This handbook provides extremely useful information to help you understand and adhere to the policies and procedures that exist.

This handbook assists with the required orientation and includes a plethora of knowledge that may assist you in this understanding. As a student-athlete for our institution it also means added responsibility and accountability. Please be aware that the students and staff at the university are a vital part to our success. Take every opportunity to let them know how your program is going and when you are competing so that they may come out to support you and help cheer you on to victory.

The years as a Cougar student-athlete will go by quickly. Enjoy this journey, and time you have at MRU. If there is anything that you need to assist, please ask. We are here to provide an environment that allows YOU to succeed academically, athletically and socially. We look forward to the year unfolding as you and your teammates pursue excellence in the classroom and in sport.

Karla Karch Director, Cougars Athletics and Recreation

COUGARS ATHLETICS AND RECREATION Cougars Athletics and Recreation is one of seven departments within Student Affairs and Campus Life (SACL). Student success, both inside and outside of the classroom is the Divisions prime objective. The services provided promote academic and personal success and each area works together with faculty to meet these goals. The Division also focuses on supporting employees of Mount Royal University in their personal pursuit of wellness. Each Department of the Division is staffed with experienced, committed Student Affairs professionals who use and develop best practices to deliver programs/services and host events that meet the needs of community members.

Overview of the Services Areas:

Office of the Student Affairs and Campus Life Vice President Steve Fitterer 403-440-6506

Accessibility Services - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/AcademicSupport/ResourcesServices/Accessibili tyServices/index.htm

Career Services - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/employmentcareers/CareerServices/ind ex.htm

Campus Equity and Meaningful Inclusion - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/CampusResources/CampusEq uityMeaningfulInclusion/index.htm

Student Learning Services - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/AcademicSupport/ResourcesServices/StudentLe arningServices/index.htm

Cougars Athletics and Recreation - website http://www.mrucougars.com/landing/index http://www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/Recreation/

Residence Services - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/campusservices/livingoncampus/index.htm

Wellness Centre - website http://www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/WellnessServices/index.htm

DEPARTMENTAL EXPECTATIONS AND GUIDELINES http://www.mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/CampusResources/StudentC onduct/GuidelinesForms/index.htm

As a member of Cougars Athletics and Recreation, all student- athletes are required to abide by the following principles and guidelines at all times:

The Code of Student Conduct Guide for MRU http://www.mtroyal.ca/cs/groups/public/documents/pdf/student_con duct_guide.pdf

Consistent with its aim of fostering student academic success and satisfaction, the university’s primary purpose for governing academic and other university related behavior is to promote personal, educational and social development of our students.

Student members of the university with special responsibilities established by Mount Royal (e.g. student-athletes, students participating in international exchanges) may also necessarily be governed by additional policies. In each case, those policies may govern additional behaviors and be administered through processes, and with resulting sanctions, other than those outlined in the Code. Any misconduct review process followed will not encroach on the fundamental rights afforded to a student member of the Mount

Royal community. The Code of Student Conduct shall supersede all other policies, rules or regulations in the event of any overlap.

Behavior that is subject to disciplinary action under the Code includes violations of established civil and criminal statutes; conduct that threatens the safety or well-being of members of the university community; and any other behavior that seriously and adversely affects the university or its educational mission.

Mount Royal reserves the right to apply the Code to off-campus conduct that has a real and substantial link to the university and where:

●the conduct gives rise to a reasonable belief that the individual(s) poses a substantial danger to themselves or others in the university or community; or, ●the conduct gives rise to a reasonable belief that the presence of the individual could seriously disrupt, or adversely affect the university; or, ●the conduct is prejudicial or likely to be prejudicial to the interests or to the reputation of the university.

Guidelines for Student-Athletes Student-athletes are expected to conform to a higher standard of behavior by exhibiting the following qualities while involved in competitive situations:

● Integrity - respect the rights of other athletes, coaches and the public. ● Competence - strive to perform to the best of your abilities. ● Respect for the rules - play fair and display respect for your sport. ● Respect for officials - exhibit respect for referees’ and officials’ judgments and decisions. ● Refrain from directing criticism towards game officials when speaking to the media.

Student-athletes are expected to adopt the following personal attributes and priorities:

● Athlete’s interests - act in the best interests of the team foremost. ● Personal conducts - expect and present the best of one’s self at all times. ● Academics - place academic pursuits ahead of athletic ambitions.

MRU Behavioral Requirements Mount Royal University expects all varsity programs along with their coaching staff, to establish team rules. The department requires that all student-athletes conduct themselves in accordance with CWUAA and U Sports rules and regulations, as well as following the behavioral requirements set out by the department and Mount Royal University.

● You are committed to behavior that will reflect well on the reputation of Mount Royal University, your teammates, opponents, coaches and officials. ● You abide by the rules and regulations set out by the CWUAA and the U Sports. ● You conduct yourself in all situations in a manner that would maintain and enhance positive student-athlete / Coach relationships. ● You do not willfully damage the property of others which would include, but is not limited to, facilities at MRU and other Universities, transportation vehicles and accommodations. ● You treat yourself and others with respect and dignity. ● Refraining from sexist, racist, or discriminatory language and/or behavior as prohibited by the Human Rights Code. ● Refraining from the consumption / use of alcohol or illegal / banned substances while on route to the site of athletic events / contests, hotels, competitions or practices. The consumption or possession of these substances while on MRU team transport is strictly prohibited.

● Refraining from hazing / initiation activities of any type. MRU Cougar Athletics and Recreation definition of hazing is any action taken or situation created as part of initial or continued membership on a team which 1) produces or could be expected to produce mental discomfort, harm, stress, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule or 2) violate the MRU Student Code of Conduct, the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct or law.

MRU Harassment Policy Discrimination and harassment are prohibited by law in Alberta by the Alberta Human Rights, Citizenship and Multiculturalism Act. In keeping with efforts to establish and maintain an environment in which the dignity and worth of all members of the university community are respected, it is the policy of Mount Royal University that discrimination/ harassment of students and employees is unacceptable and will not be tolerated.

At Mount Royal University the prohibited grounds of discrimination and harassment currently are:

race color family status

ancestry place of origin source of income

religious beliefs gender age

physical disability mental disability sexual orientation

marital status

For more information, please contact the office of Campus Equity and Meaningful Inclusion.

Social Media Guidelines for Cougars Athletics and Recreation Competing for Mount Royal University is a privilege. Student‐ athletes at MRU are held in the highest regard and are seen as role models in the community. As leaders, you have the responsibility to portray your team, your University and yourselves in a positive manner at all times. Sometimes this means doing things that are an inconvenience to you, but benefit the whole team.

For your own safety, please keep the following recommendations in mind as you participate in social media websites:

● Set your security settings so that only your friends can view your profile. ● You do not post your email, home address, local address, telephone number(s), or other personal information as it could lead to unwanted attention, stalking, identity theft, etc. ● Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site – many people are looking to take advantage of student‐ athletes or to seek connection with student‐ athletes. ● Consider how the above behaviors can be reflected in all Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/etc... applications.

For more information regarding social media etiquette, please refer to the Mount Royal University Athletic Department Social Media Policy and Guidelines for Student-Athletes.

DISCIPLINARY ACTION Any student-athlete found to be in violation of the rules or policies as stated in the Student Code of Conduct or this handbook may be subject to the following disciplinary action as determined Manager of Varsity Athletics in consultation with the head coach.

Probation A student-athlete may be placed on probation for a period of time as determined by the Manager of Varsity Athletics. The terms of probation may be modified depending on the circumstances. However, basic probationary conditions imply that the student- 12 athlete will be immediately suspended from Cougars Athletics and Recreation for the remainder of the academic year if they violate any Cougars Athletics and Recreation rule or policy while under probation.

Suspension from the Athletic Program The period of suspension shall be determined by the Manager of Varsity Athletics. Suspension shall imply that the individual, while under suspension, shall not be eligible for the benefits of Cougars Athletics and Recreation including, but not limited to: ● participation in team practices and or games; ● travel with the team; ● eligibility for a scholarship, award or bursary; ● removal from the varsity program you are a member of.

Ineligibility for financial assistance The student-athlete’s eligibility for a Jimmie Condon, MRU Athletic Scholarships / Awards and or an Al Bohonus Award may be revoked.

Coach’s ability to release student-athletes The Head coach has the authority to release a student-athlete from their program for justifiable cause. However, every effort will be made to work with the student-athlete to educate and improve on their behaviour.

Any release from a varsity program must be in written form with copies to the student-athlete and the Manager of Varsity Athletics. This is to be done no later than five (5) business days after the release from a program.

Once written confirmation has been received from the head coach, initiation of a review / investigation may take place by the Manager of Varsity Athletics or upon written request by the released student- athlete. At that time the student-athlete will not be allowed to participate in any team activities including those held on and off the respective playing field until a decision by the Manager of Varsity Athletics has occurred. If further disciplinary and sanctions are

13 rendered they will take effect upon written notification from the Manager of Varsity Athletics to the student-athlete in question. The decision making process shall take no more than five (5) business days.

They shall remain in effect unless the student-athlete lodges an appeal as described in the following procedures:

1. Appeal Procedures Upon receiving written notice of disciplinary action taken by the department of Cougars Athletics and Recreation, the suspended individual may choose to appeal the decision. a) Within three days notice of disciplinary action taken, the suspended individual may appeal the ruling in writing to the Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation. Upon submission of the Appeals document, the terms of the discipline shall be lifted pending a decision. b) Once notification has been received, the Director in consultation with the VP of SACL will rule on whether to grant or deny the appeal, which is to be communicated in writing, within three days. c) If the appeal is granted the Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation will form an Appeals Committee. d) If the appeal is granted the Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation will attempt to schedule an Appeals Hearing within five working days of receipt of the Appeal document. e) The Hearing may proceed when the Appellant, any witnesses and Appeals Committee are in attendance. The Hearing may also proceed if the Appellant fails to attend. The Appeals Committee’s decision will be based upon written and oral evidence presented at the Hearing. f) The Appeals Committee may disband the Hearing if the Appellant fails to attend, or deny the Appeal. g) The burden of proof in a disciplinary Appeal rests with the Appellant, who must make a case to convince the Appeals Committee to decide in the Appellant’s favour.

h) The Appeals Committee will rule on the appeal immediately following the hearing. i) The Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation will prepare a Decision Letter conveying the decision concerning the appeal; will provide a copy to the Appellant and to the Manager of Varsity Athletics within five business days of the appeal hearing. j) The Directors decision is final, not subject to appeal and is in effect upon the date of the Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation Decision Letter, unless otherwise specified.

2. Grounds for an Appeal a) Manager of Varsity Athletics fails to follow outlined procedures. b) Alleged and reasonable apprehension of bias by the Manager of Varsity Athletics in rendering the decision. c) Substantive new evidence which could not have been available to the Manager of Varsity Athletics during decision making process.

ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES Academic Disqualification Policy https://mtroyal.ca/cs/groups/public/documents/pdf/ssdata_required_ to_withdraw.pdf

Academic disqualification Policy Mount Royal University is committed to maintaining high standards, encouraging academic success and indicating to students when their current program of study may be inappropriate or their academic performance may be inadequate. In keeping with these goals, the University reserves the right to warn students regarding their academic status and also to disqualify students from further registration in credit courses at the University for a period of one full academic year (fall, winter and spring semesters) if their academic performance fails to meet the minimum academic standards outlined below.

For all information pertaining to Academic standards, please visit https://www.mtroyal.ca/Applications/PoliciesAndProcedures/view/0B 2rB1ncpgWxveUc5ZGlkUnNRdUU.

The responsibility for being familiar with and fulfilling these program- specific requirements rests with the student.

Procedure Your academic standing will be assessed every semester after you have attempted a minimum of nine credits (three courses). If your cumulative GPA is a 2.00 or higher, you will remain in Good Standing. If your cumulative GPA drops below 2.00, you will be notified by an email sent to your mtroyal account that your Academic Standing has changed.

NOTE

Significant Improvement: to demonstrate significant improvement you must achieve a semester GPA of 2.20 or higher based on a minimum enrolment in two three-credit courses. Note that your semester GPA will be calculated on all of the courses taken in a semester, not just on your two highest grades in that semester.

Academic Progress Criteria 1. Students must have attempted a minimum of 18 credits before their academic record will be reviewed at the end of any given academic year. Students who have accumulated fewer than 18 credits will be deemed eligible to continue their studies until such time as they have attempted at least 18 credits. 2. Those students who have attempted at least 18 credits (including courses from which they withdraw) will be considered ineligible to continue their studies at the University and will be academically disqualified if their cumulative grade point average at the time of the annual academic progress review is less than 2.0 3. Students may request the Office of the Registrar to perform a manual recalculation of their cumulative grade point average to include only the highest grade awarded for repeated coursework and to exclude grades in any courses that were taken more than 16

six (6) years previously. If, as a result of this manual calculation, the revised cumulative grade point average exceeds 2.0, the student will not be academically disqualified and will be permitted to continue his or her studies at the University. 4. Students who are registered in credit courses at the time of their disqualification will have their registration cancelled; any tuition and mandatory fees that have been assessed and paid for those courses will be refunded.

Academic Warning The Office of the Registrar will issue an official academic warning to those students whose cumulative grade point average at the end of any semester of study is less than 2.00. Students who are issued an official academic warning are strongly encouraged to meet with their academic advisor and/or a University counsellor to review their academic standing and how best it might be improved in the following semester of studies.

Length of Academic Disqualification Students who are academically disqualified will not be permitted to resume their studies at the University for a full academic year (the fall, winter and spring semesters immediately following their disqualification).

Readmission after Academic Disqualification Students who have been academically disqualified must apply for readmission in accordance with the application deadlines for new students that are specified in the “Academic Schedule” published in the University Calendar.

Prior to making application for readmission, disqualified students must meet and consult with a University counsellor regarding their academic plans. The counsellor will indicate to the Office of the Registrar when this consultation has occurred in order to complete the student’s application procedure.

Under exceptional circumstances involving documented medical reasons or serious domestic affliction, a student may request that the Registrar waive a second or subsequent disqualification if they withdraw from all courses during the academic year to which they have been re-admitted and if, as a consequence, their cumulative grade point average at the time of the annual academic review falls below 1.50. The request for consideration of a waiver and the exceptional circumstances must have occurred prior to the end of the student’s final examination period.

For answers to questions you may have go to http://www.mtroyal.ca/AcademicSupport/StudentRegistrationRecord s/AcademicStanding/index.htm

Cougars Athletics and Recreation Academic Eligibility Standard In support of Cougars Athletics and Recreation emphasis on the academic success of its student-athletes, an academic standard for continuing participation in the athletic program has been established. Monitoring of progress by the department takes place on a weekly basis and any student-athlete who does not achieve a minimum 1.5 grade point average in each semester of attendance, could be suspended from participating in any Cougars Athletics and Recreation activities, including team practices or games, for one full semester while their sport is in play. Reinstatement will only be granted provided that the student-athlete continues full time attendance and achieves a grade point average above 2.0 in the academic semester subsequent to suspension.

Any student-athlete subjected to this academic suspension shall be granted the opportunity to appeal their suspension to the Manager of Varsity Athletics. The appeal shall be made in writing by the student-athlete and/or coach and shall clearly explain the justification and/or extraordinary circumstance which warrant special consideration.

A meeting involving the student-athlete, coach, Manager of Varsity Athletics and Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation shall be

18 held thereafter at the earliest possible time. The Manager and Director reserves the authority to grant or deny the appeal.

U Sports Eligibility Standards http://en.cis- sic.ca/information/members_info/pdfs/pdf_bylaws_policies_procedur es/15-16/6_Policy_40_10_Eligibility_Rules_2015-16.pdf

Student-Athlete Academic Success In recognition of the unique challenges faced by every individual who balances a full-time academic schedule with the demands of varsity athletics participation, the Mount Royal University Athletic department will endeavour to provide guidance and leadership to facilitate the academic success of student-athletes. It is, however, the head coach’s responsibility to identify any potential academic problems through the monitoring of their student- athletes with the use of BLACKBOARD on the ‘mymru’ website. Students can access their grades in real time and show their coach where they are standing in each course. If a problem is recognized, it is recommended you work with the Athletes Services Coordinator to assist your student-athletes in finding potential solutions. If any professors are not using the BLACKBOARD system, Cougars Athletics and Recreation will assist in contacting these individuals to provide academic updates for your student-athletes.

Note that as a student-athlete you are required to pass a minimum of 18 credits each academic year with a minimum GPA of 1.5. Failure to do so will result in deeming yourself ineligible. For more information please go to the FAQ (appendix).

Student-Athlete Academic Advising - MRU Advising Services http://www.mtroyal.ca/AcademicSupport/ResourcesServices/Advising /index.htm

Mount Royal University offers academic advising to Cougars student- athletes when required and information can be found on the MRU website or through the Athlete Services Coordinator.

Your head coach and the Athlete Services Coordinator will be able to assist you with your application to MRU, registration and payment deadlines, any additional information required, such as transcripts or testing and eligibility for the U Sports.

It is ultimately the responsibility of the student-athlete to ensure you are on the right track to graduate from Mount Royal University. Your head coach will be tracking your academic progress, which should be discussed with you throughout your time at MRU. Weekly academic verification takes place by the Athlete Services Coordinator to ensure each of our student-athletes are meeting the academic compliance standards as set out by the U Sports. Should a situation occur where the eligibility be compromised, the Athlete Services Coordinator will notify you (and copy the Manager of Athletics) immediately. The student-athlete is immediately suspended from competition until further inquiries rules them eligible.

ACADEMIC APPEALS AND GRIEVANCES General Principles Governing Marks Appeal and Grievance Procedures When approached with matters of appeal or grievance, all officers and faculty of the university should refer students to the complete policy outlined in the Mount Royal University Calendar. http://www.mtroyal.ca/cs/groups/public/documents/pdf/16- 17academiccalendar.pdf

Students have the right to fair and equitable procedures for the lodging, hearing, and resolution of matters involving final grades, academic standing, and other complaints. Complaints may arise from disputes regarding grading of coursework or from implementation of university regulations, policies, and actions that affect students directly.

The basic principles governing the hearing of student appeals and grievances are as follows: 20

i. that fairness will be applied to all parties in procedures and decisions; ii. that sound academic decisions will not be set aside on the basis of minor irregularities in procedures; iii. that academic decisions should be made as close as possible to the level on which the academic competence resides; iv. that all members of a committee hearing an appeal should be free of bias; v. that students may wish to consult with the Students’ Association at any stage of the process; vi. that all parties have the option of having a third party present during any stage of this process (this third party being a peer or colleague chosen by the individual).

It is not intended that any appeal or grievance hearing shall be conducted on an adversarial basis or like a trial in law. In keeping with the spirit of this policy, the university does not permit representation by legal counsel at appeal and grievance hearings.

It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to familiarize themselves with the university’s policy on Academic Appeals and Grievances. It is also their responsibility to lodge and attempt to resolve all appeals and grievances they may have. It is not the responsibility of their coach, Manager of Varsity Athletics or the Director of Cougars Athletics and Recreation.

ATHLETE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE (AFA) ALL STUDENT-ATHLETES ARE REQUIRED TO MEET THE U Sports AND THE MRU STANDARDS TO QUALIFY FOR AN AFA.

U Sports RESTRICTIONS ON FINANCIAL AID https://usports.ca/uploads/hq/By_Laws-Policies- Procedures/2018/EN/Policy_50_Financial_Awards_%282018- 2019%29.pdf

Jimmie Condon Athletic Scholarship Objective: 21

1. To encourage and reward the pursuit of academic excellence in the field of athletics at the university and technical institute level. 2. To encourage Albertans to pursue their legitimate athletic and academic aspirations at Alberta universities and technical institutes. 3. To provide a financial incentive to student-athletes who, because of the tremendous time commitment required for high level competition, do not have the opportunity to maintain employment while pursuing post-secondary studies.

Conditions: 1. The student-athlete is an Alberta resident, i.e. a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant who has maintained residence in Alberta for 12 months, or whose parents or guardians have maintained residence in Canada for 12 consecutive months and are residents in Alberta. Notwithstanding the above, an individual who is a Canadian citizen or a landed immigrant and who has been in full- time attendance at an educational institution in Alberta in the preceding year may be considered eligible in their current year. 2. The student-athlete is a member of a designated varsity program selected by the Heritage Scholarship Board. (i.e. basketball, soccer, volleyball, hockey). 3. The student-athlete is maintaining satisfactory academic standing as of the date of the nomination (minimum 2.0 GPA). 4. The student-athlete is maintaining or has maintained a practice and training program acceptable to the coach and Manager of Varsity Athletics and is not under suspension for any reason by the MRU Department of Athletics. 5. The student-athlete is enrolled full-time as defined by the institution and maintaining a successful academic standing and progressing in the normal fashion toward the completion of each year leading to a degree, diploma or certificate. Mount Royal University requires the student-athlete to be enrolled in a minimum of three Mount Royal University courses totalling nine credits or more per semester. Subsequently, the student-athlete must be successful at the end of the semester in nine credits or more and achieve a 2.00 GPA or greater.

6. The scholarship and amount is decided upon by the head coach with a cap of no more that $1,800 per student-athlete, payable in two instalments (December and April). The recipients shall only be entitled to the second instalment if, at the time the second instalment becomes payable, the aforementioned criteria are still being fulfilled.

Mount Royal University Al Bohonus Award Program The conditions and procedures 2, 3, 4, and 5 above are exactly the same for the Al Bohonus Award and available to all student-athletes with the following exceptions: 1. Head coaches shall nominate recipients from their program and identify the amounts of each award. 2. All student-athletes are eligible for the AB award but may not receive from this funding. Criteria for this award are identified by each head coach including, but not limited to, a GPA of 2.0 and enrollment in full time studies. 3. U Sports financial aid regulations must be taken into consideration when selecting the amount of particular financial award offers.

Other Athletic Financial Assistance (AFA) MRU and Cougars Athletics and Recreation offer a variety of other AFA opportunities for student-athletes. It is strongly recommended that the head coach work with each individual in their pursuit of these awards.

For more information on what is available please visit the MRU site at http://www.mtroyal.ca/Admission/MoneyMatters/ScholarshipsBursar ies.

STUDENT-ATHLETE INSURANCE https://mtroyal.ca/CampusServices/WellnessServices/OptimalTherapies /Coverage/index.htm

As a student in attendance at Mount Royal University, you are covered under the terms of an insurance policy established by the 23

Student’s Association through the Canadian Student Health Network which provides coverage in the event of injury sustained as a result of an accident occurring while this policy is in force. The costs of the plans are included in your institutional fees provided you meet the following eligibility enrolment criteria:

● you are a member of the Students’ Association of Mount Royal University; ● you are in an applicable program; ● you meet the full-time criteria, 9 credits or more and; ● you are residing in Canada.

For more information on health and dental benefits or to file a claim, please contact:

SAMRU Student Benefits Plan Office Room Z001, Wyckham House Ph: (403) 440-6267 Fax: (403) 440-898 Email: [email protected]

International Students In addition to SAMRU insurance, all international students must acquire basic health care coverage (physician visits, emergency room visits, laboratory services) -- that is, the things you use Alberta Health Care for. This is not part of the SAMRU extended benefits. There two options to obtain this basic health care coverage: ● Purchase Visitor Canada Insurance from a private company that covers the basic health care needs. ● Apply as an international student for Alberta Health Care coverage (AHC). The link for Alberta Health Care temporary residents is below. It has the applications and information on documentation requirements. The start date of coverage for AHC will be back dated to the arrival date in Canada. But the application must be processed. The fastest way is to take go through a motor vehicle registry (3-5 business days). Mailed applications take 3 weeks. ● http://www.health.alberta.ca/AHCIP/temporary-residents.html

STUDENT-ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS Equipment Room Policies for Athletic Programs Team equipment (i.e. practice ball etc.) will be signed out and returned by the team’s respective manager or designated individual for each practice. Damaged or missing equipment will be reported to the Manager of Varsity Athletics or Equipment Coordinator.

All team jerseys (basketball, volleyball, soccer) shall be signed out and returned by the team's respective manager or designated individual. "Sign Out" hours are Monday through Friday, 8 am - 4 pm. Teams without designated individuals (i.e. team manager) are responsible individually for equipment sign out. The Equipment Manager for the hockey programs will prepare the jerseys for the respective programs.

Programs without designated individuals (i.e. program manager) are responsible individually for equipment sign out..

CWUAA rules dictate that home programs are responsible for supplying practice equipment (balls, pucks, etc.). Therefore, these items will not be issued for "AWAY" games. As towels are not supplied by CWUAA home programs, please request towels for your program if you are playing an away game.

All team uniforms will be returned the same evening for "HOME" games or the first morning upon return to the university for "AWAY" games.

The team manager and athletic therapist will each be assigned one locker for the storage of team supplies.

Members of the volleyball, basketball and soccer teams will be assigned full lockers after the Recreation Facilities staff has received the final team list from coaches. Team room access will be from July 15 – May 30 of each year. Only head coaches will have year round

25 access to the team rooms. Maintenance and cleaning to the locker rooms will occur from June 1 – July 14 unless further time is required.

Laundering and/or alterations of all team uniforms will be done by the Equipment Room ONLY! There will be no laundry service on weekends unless prior arrangements have been made with the Recreation Facility staff.

Uniform requests for other than regularly scheduled games (i.e. exhibition) must be submitted to the Recreation Facility Staff a minimum of 24 hours in advance. Uniform request forms are available from the equipment room or athletic office.

Note: The jersey and equipment issued are the property of Mount Royal University and must be returned to Mount Royal University. If equipment/jerseys are not returned, the marks and transcripts of the student-athlete(s) involved may be withheld in addition to suspension of scholarships if applicable.

Fundraising At present, the programs athletic budgets cover the costs associated with meeting the league schedule commitment and a limited amount of exhibition travel. Student-athletes may be asked to assist or participate in limited department fundraising activities.

Cougars Athletics Fund Head coaches may require that team members acquire donations to assist with their individual team’s budget. Coaches may elect to designate a minimum amount that each student-athlete must generate. Student-athletes may voluntarily agree to generate more than the designated minimum, but this cannot be placed as a condition of team membership.

The Cougars Athletics Fund is a donor solicitation program that provides tangible benefits for student recruited donors. Funds generated are placed in an account designated for each program’s specific travel, equipment and operational needs. The Manager of

Varsity Athletics or designate reserves the right to approve or decline all proposed AAC account expenditures.

Supplementary Fund Raising ● Each program may conduct their own fundraising projects. ● Team fundraising ventures must be approved by the Manager of Varsity Athletics (or designate) and be accompanied with a written proposal outlining the following: 1. type of project; 2. implementation of project; 3. manpower; 4. licensing (if required); 5. proposed budget; 6. intended use of funds. ● All projects utilizing the Mount Royal University name must be financially accountable to the university and utilize established cash handling procedures.

Note: All monies collected or expended on projects must be administered through the athletic budgets. Programs may not operate separate bank accounts for the collection or disbursement of funds.

Practice and Training Sessions You must attend all practice and training sessions unless otherwise specified by the coach. The only allowable exceptions are time conflict with a scheduled class or exam, or illness or injury that prevents you from leaving your bed. An incapacitated athlete can still watch, listen and learn!

You are expected to be ready to start practice at the designated time. Changing, taping, etc. are to be completed prior to the start time.

Each athlete is expected to do his/her best to maintain fitness during the preseason and in-season. Coaches will forward suggested training plans or ideas for acquiring the necessary level of physical conditioning. Weight training sessions and conditioning sessions are

27 considered mandatory practice sessions. The athlete is expected to follow the training routine as outlined by the Sport Conditioning Coach and Head Coach.

Dress All student-athletes are representatives of the university and should be prepared to present themselves accordingly. You are expected to dress appropriately on all road trips.

Departure For road trips, all members of the travelling group are expected to be at the place of departure at the designated time as outlined by the head coach. The transport vehicles will leave at that time. Those who arrive late could find themselves left behind.

Expenses All transportation and accommodation expenses incurred on team road trips will be paid by the university. In addition, each student- athlete is allotted $30 per day meal allowance broken down as follows: breakfast $6, lunch $8, dinner $16. Please note for Vancouver only trips this increases to $35 per day (breakfast $7, lunch $9, dinner $19). It is up to each head coach to distribute these funds according to how they deliver the meals, so please note that cash may not be paid out to each player.

Incidental expenses in accommodations i.e.: phone calls, room service, in-room movies, etc are the responsibility of the individual student-athlete(s) and must be paid prior to the team upon check out.

Specific Rules There are a number of specific rules which must be adhered to for the protection and benefit of team members and Cougars Athletics and Recreation.

These are:

1. The use of illegal drugs by any intercollegiate athlete will not be permitted and will result in immediate dismissal from the athletic program along with written notification to the athlete's parents or guardians. 2. Alcohol will not be consumed by any intercollegiate athlete while travelling to or from an athletic event. 3. Alcohol consumption on chartered vehicles (i.e. buses, vans, airplanes) will not be permitted to or from any events. 4. Alcohol consumption in lodgings will not be permitted. 5. No alcohol will be consumed in the locker rooms of any institution before, during or after Mount Royal University competition. 6. Any incidents arising out of the misuse of alcohol as stated will result in the immediate suspension from the athletic program of all persons involved, pending further investigation. 7. No one other than Mount Royal University team members are allowed into your hotel room. You are responsible for ensuring that your hotel room is left in a neat and undamaged state. 8. No items are to be removed from the hotel rooms other than those which you have brought with you. 9. When curfews are stipulated by coaches, they are to be strictly adhered to. 10. All room expenses are the responsibility of the occupants and must be paid for at the time of the checkout, i.e. phone calls, room service, etc. 11. All team members will travel to and from all contests with the team and are expected to stay with the team at the accommodation provided.

Uniforms The university provides team uniforms for all sports. Student-athletes are required to wear the complete team uniform as issued without variations, except where provided for by league rules.

Uniforms will be picked up by team managers for the sports prior to games when at home or prior to departure on the road (see Equipment Room Policies for times). Your assistance in returning

29 your complete uniform to the team manager immediately after games is required. This serves two purposes:

1. it assists the manager in their duties; 2. it ensures uniforms are not lost and can be washed and prepared for the next scheduled competition.

Civic Engagement (Community Service) Cougars Athletics and Recreation has initiated a community service program whereby student-athletes will be expected to volunteer 25 hours towards a charitable activity internal and or external to the university. The program will be operated through each program and the head coach. Expectations regarding you or your team’s involvement in the program or other sport specific programs will be communicated to you at your program meeting. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to ask. Please see your head coach for the tracking of these hours.

ATHLETIC THERAPY CLINIC The therapy staff are your access point for all things medical, including but not limited to: ● Practice and game athlete preparation and follow-up care ● Muscle, joint, ligament injury assessment and treatment ● Access to varsity Sport Medicine Physician for injury evaluation and potential for diagnostic imaging (e.g. x-ray, CT Scan, MRI) ● Injury prevention including medical and musculoskeletal screening ● Concussion management ● Dental Injury ● Medical illness (e.g. colds, flu, heat exhaustion, hypothermia) and conditions (e.g. heart, lung, immune system) management ● Infectious diseases (e.g. measles, pink eye, scabies, MRSA) ● Mental health issues (e.g. eating disorders, depression, anxiety, suicidal thoughts) ● Drug education and banned substances 30

● Strength and conditioning

Cougars Athletics and Recreation hires Certified Athletic Therapists to provide care free of charge to varsity athletes. To access care, athletes should book an appointment in the “Varsity Schedule” of Optimal Therapies by calling 403.440.6917 or in person at Optimal Therapies (room U216 in the Wellness Centre). More specific processes will be communicated to team members regularly during the season. Regular hours of operation for receiving treatment in the clinic and at the venue are Monday to Thursday between the hours of 8am and 4pm and Fridays from 1-4pm but may change dependent on games being played. There will be a certified staff member at all men’s hockey home games and at the first game of the weekend for all other teams. Triage is available daily at 8 am in Optimal Therapy. During the Spring/Summer (end of winter term classes to August 15), clinic care is scheduled for 5 hours per day, 4 days a week. This will fluctuate based on vacation time for the full time staff.

Your team is also supported by student therapists who are currently enrolled in the MRU Athletic Therapy academic program. A student therapist must travel with your team to all competitions (exhibition, regular season, international travel). Should an athlete need to go to the hospital during a competitive event, the student therapist needs to stay at the competition in case another athlete is injured. Be prepared to send an assistant coach to the hospital with the athlete, regardless of the presence of a family member.

All student-athletes must complete the online medical profile requirements and complete mandatory baseline concussion testing prior to participating in practices or games and new to MRU athletes must also have a physician complete the physical examination form.

All student-athletes and team support personnel must complete the Canadian Center for Ethics in Sport (CCES) online drug education training for the team to be eligible for competition.

Decision-Making Process for Returning Injured Athletes Back to Play Return to play decisions are made in the best interest of the student- athlete, with the short term goal of safely returning an athlete to play as soon as possible, and the long term goal of sustained play and health for that athlete. A student-athlete must be medically cleared to play by the MRU employed Head/Assistant Athletic Therapist and may require clearance from the varsity Sport Medicine Physician contracted by the department. An inclusive approach to return to play decision making will include discussion including the following parties: certified staff athletic therapist, athletic therapy student, head coach, sport conditioning coach, and student-athlete. Each return to play process will take into account the athlete’s injury, playing schedule, sport and position specific requirements, and the potential for ongoing complications that may/may not affect the athlete’s health in the short and long term.

Special Circumstances Marijuana The legalization of marijuana in Canada is looming. Regardless of the legal status of marijuana use, it remains a CCES banned substance. The use of medical marijuana will require a TUE or medical exemption to be completed with the CCES. Applying for use of medical marijuana does not guarantee acceptance by the CCES.

DIRECTORY Assistant Athletic Therapist - Caitlin Campbell Phone: 403-440-6224 [email protected]

Assistant Athletic Therapist - Dylan Turner Phone: 403-440-6224 [email protected]

Athlete Services Coordinator - Ciara Lane Phone: 403-440-8853 [email protected]

Director, Cougars Athletics and Recreation - Karla Karch Phone: 403-440-7211, Cell: 403-463-2298 [email protected]

Engagement and Events Coordinator - Leor Magalnik Phone: 403-440-6569 [email protected]

Equipment Coordinator - Terry Klan Phone: 403-440-6518 [email protected]

Finance Officer - Lori Ostergaard Phone: 403-440-6289 [email protected]

Head Athletic Therapist - Kerri Downer Phone: 403-440-6224 [email protected]

Manager, Facilities - Calvin Aubin Phone: 403-440-6524 [email protected]

Manager, Marketing and Partnerships - Katya Sodamin Phone: 403-440-6968 [email protected]

Manager, Recreation - Bjorn Billihaug Phone: 403-440-7005

Manager, Varsity Athletics - Robert Godfrey Phone: 403-440-6290, Cell: 403-827-9980 [email protected]

Marketing Coordinator - Jeremy Vold

Phone: 40344-6519 [email protected]

Men’s Basketball Coach - Marc Dobell Phone: 403-440-6245, Cell: 403-923-6272 [email protected]

Men's Hockey Coach - Bert Gilling Phone: 403-440-6375, Cell: 403-585-6138 [email protected]

Men's Soccer Coach - Ryan Gyaki Phone: 403-440-5662, Cell: 403-620-6631 [email protected]

Men's Volleyball Coach - Shawn Sky Phone: 403-440-6795, Cell: 403-828-3773 [email protected]

Sport Conditioning Coach - Jack Boyle Phone: 403-440-5628 [email protected]

Sports Information Coordinator - Lindsay Franco Phone: 403-440-7218 [email protected]

Sports Information Assistant - Dylan Dodge Phone: 403-440-6256 [email protected]

Travel and Office Coordinator - Jody Hope Phone: 403-440-8757, Cell: 403-612-1922 [email protected]

Women's Basketball Coach - Nathan McKibbon Phone: 403-440-5560, Cell: 403-463-7433

34 [email protected]

Women's Hockey Coach - Scott Rivett Phone: 403-440-6259, Cell: 403-990-9820 [email protected]

Women's Soccer Coach - Tino Fusco Phone: 403-440-5645, Cell: 403-471-3484 [email protected]

Women's Volleyball Coach - Sandra Lamb Phone: 403-440-6230,Cell: 403-875-5577 [email protected]

APPENDIX FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Student-Athlete Eligibility What are the academic requirements for students entering directly from high school or CEGEP? ● A minimum 60% average or equivalent on those courses used to determine your university admission. ● Specific to CEGEP, you must also have maintained your respective academic eligibility in the RSEQ.

What are the academic requirements to remain eligible? Canadian Interuniversity Sport student-athletes must: ● Be enrolled in a minimum of 3 courses (minimum 9 credit hours or equivalent) in the term in which they are competing. ● Successfully complete a minimum of 3 full courses, or 6 half courses (minimum 18 credit hours or equivalent) during the academic year. ● Always consult your head coach, Athlete Services Coordinator prior to making any changes to your academic program or course load.

Are there any exceptions? ● Exceptions are granted within certain academic programs and circumstances (please consult your Athletic department).

How do I get charged with a year of eligibility? ● Depending on the sport you play and the schedule of your team, you can be charged with a year of eligibility when your name appears on the playing roster (or equivalent) of as few as one or as many as three competitions. Please be aware of the rules that apply to you by consulting your Athletic department. ● For CEGEP participation, as well as National Team and Professional participation, please consult your Athletic department.

● Men’s basketball and hockey have sport-specific regulations related to non-U Sports participation which can result in the loss of eligibility; please consult your Athletic department. ● Within related jurisdictions, such as the CCAA or NCAA, you are charged with eligibility in accordance with that jurisdiction’s rules.

How many years of eligibility do I have? ● Canadian Interuniversity Sport (U Sports) allows you to compete for 5 years in U Sports. In the sport of football, those 5 years must be used within a 7 or 8 year period following their expected date of high school graduation (for Quebec and non-Quebec high school graduates respectively). ● Athletes who have completed their eligibility to participate in another post-secondary jurisdiction, such as the CCAA, are ineligible for U Sports competition. ● Athletes who have been charged with a year of eligibility or a season of competition in four separate academic years within a non-Canadian post-secondary jurisdiction, such as the NCAA, are ineligible for U Sports competition.

Athletic Scholarships What is an Athletic Scholarship? ● Also referred to as an athletic financial award, an athletic scholarship is any award that is conditional to being on a U Sports program. ● An athletic scholarship can include, but is not limited to, scholarships, bursaries, prizes, leadership awards, merit awards, housing, and all other non-employment financial benefit received by an athlete from their institution.

Is there a limit to the value of athletic scholarship that I can receive? ● Tuition and compulsory fees is the maximum amount you can receive in an academic year, including athletic-related bursaries. ● The value and quantity of athletic scholarship available varies from institution to institution. ● Specific awards may have additional conditions, such as academic success and citizenship, beyond what is stated here.

● Many awards, such as academic awards or awards provided by Sport Governing Bodies or the Federal and Provincial Governments, are not included within the tuition and compulsory fees maximum; please consult your Athletic department.

Who provides athletic scholarships? ● All athletics scholarships provided to student-athletes must be administered through the providing university. ● To receive an athletic-related award that is not administered by your university, the award must not be conditional on attendance at any particular university. That is, you must be free to attend the university of your choice.

When can I receive an athletic scholarship? ● You are eligible to receive an athletic scholarship at the beginning of your first year at a university (September) if you have a minimum entering average of 80% or equivalent. ● Alternatively, where applicable (and excluding Ontario as per Ontario University Athletics policy), you are eligible to receive an athletic scholarship at the end of your first year at a university (spring or summer) if you satisfy U Sports academic requirements with at least a 65% average or equivalent. ● Thereafter, you are eligible to receive an athletic scholarship at the beginning of any year if you satisfy U Sports academic requirements with at least a 65% average or equivalent in the preceding year (for Ontario universities, as per Ontario University Athletics policy, a 70% average is required).

Please note that Regional Associations and institutions may have additional regulations that are of a more stringent nature; please consult your Athletic department about these rules.

Doping Control Program What is the U Sports Doping Control Program? ● U Sports, in cooperation with the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES), coordinates a doping control program that incorporates both “in-season” and “out-of-season” testing.

● Student-athletes are tested in accordance with the rules of the Canadian Anti-Doping Program (CADP).

Who’s eligible for testing and when can I be tested? ● Every U Sports student-athlete is eligible for testing, both in and out of competition, throughout the year.

What’s permitted and what’s prohibited? ● The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List is implemented in Canada by the CADP. ● The Global Drug Reference Online (DRO), at www.globaldro.com, provides athletes and their support personnel with information about which prescription and nonprescription medications are prohibited or not by WADA. ● You can also contact the CCES at 1-800-672-7775, or by email at [email protected].

Are prescribed medications permitted? ● Many medications are prohibited, regardless of a prescription from a physician. ● Athletes must verify the status of any medication before it is consumed or used. ● If you are required to take a medication that is considered prohibited by WADA to treat an illness or condition, please consult your Athletic department.

Are herbal products and nutritional supplements prohibited? ● The CCES believes that the use of supplements poses an unacceptable risk for athletes and their careers. As such, the CCES recommends that athletes do not use supplements. Athletes are responsible for any prohibited substance found in their sample; this is known as strict liability. Serious sanctions may be imposed on athletes who test positive for a prohibited substance regardless of its source (e.g. supplement use). ● The CCES has taken this position because there is little government regulation of the supplement industry. As a result, supplements may be inadvertently contaminated with prohibited

substances, intentionally contain prohibited substances, or be mislabelled. ● The CCES is advising athletes who choose to use supplements to support the nutritional demands of training and travelling to take maximum precautions to minimize the associated risks, and to keep a record of the steps that were taken. ● Recommended precautions include: o Make a direct inquiry to the manufacturer. Get a written guarantee that the product is free of any substances on the current WADA Prohibited List. o Ask if the manufacturer makes any products that contain prohibited substances at the plant where the supplement is produced. o Ask if the manufacturer is prepared to stand behind their product. If not, don’t use the product. o Select a product that has NSF Certified for Sport™ approval. To minimize the risk of inadvertent doping, this program helps athletes identify products that have been tested and certified. Go to: www.nsfsport.com

For more information: contact CCES at 1-800-672-7775 or www.cces.ca or [email protected]

Thinking About Transferring? As a current U Sports student-athlete, how soon can I play after transferring to another U Sports school? ● One year must pass from your last participation in that sport, subject to all other rules.

Are there any exceptions? ● When either the sport you play or your academic program of study has been discontinued at your school, subject to all other rules. ● If you enrol in a graduate or first professional degree program at a school different from the one you attended the previous year, you may be able to participate immediately in U Sports competition (please consult your Athletic department).

● Specific to the sports of swimming, track & field, and cross- country running, a student-athlete can transfer to a U Sports institution from any degree granting postsecondary institution without restriction in an immediately subsequent academic year under certain conditions (please consult your Athletic department).

What else should I know? ● If you contact another school’s coach or Athletic department representative regarding a potential transfer, the Athletic Director of your present school will be notified.

What if I’m contacted by another coach? ● U Sports coaches and Athletic department representatives are not permitted to contact athletes already attending a U Sports school.

As a CCAA student-athlete, how soon can I play after transferring to a U Sports school? ● you can participate immediately in U Sports competition, unless: 1) you have participated in any game(s) in that semester or term; or 2) you have not achieved a minimum 60% average or equivalent on those university courses utilized to determine your university admission (please note, effective for 2012-13, a student-athlete must successfully complete a minimum of 18 credit hours or equivalent during the academic year); or 3) you have completed your CCAA eligibility; or 4) you have not maintained your academic eligibility in the CCAA.

As a NCAA or NAIA student-athlete, how soon can I play after transferring to a U Sports school? ● Subject to all other U Sports rules including academic requirements, and provided you have not been charged with a year of eligibility in four separate academic years within the NCAA or NAIA, one year must pass from your last participation.