Madison Christian School

ATHLETIC HANDBOOK

www.mcseaglesoh.org

revised 4/28/2020

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Athletic Mission Statement 3 Association Memberships 3 FinalForms 4 Physical Examinations 4 Sports Offered 5 Tryouts 5 Eligibility 6 Attendance 6 Transportation 6 Student-Athlete Expectations, Goals, Responsibilities 7-8 Spectator Expectations & Responsibilities 9 Chain of Communication 10 Volunteer Requirement 11 Equipment & Uniforms 11 Sports Equipment/Fees 12 Postseason Awards 13 Eagle Leadership Experience 14 Athletic Training 14 Risk of Participation 15 Conclusion 15

2 Athletic Mission Statement

MCS Athletics, in alignment with the school’s mission, seeks to use the pursuit of athletic excellence to develop strong Christian leaders by investing in the growth of the student-athlete’s faith, character, and leadership.

Association Memberships

Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) The purpose of this non-profit organization is to regulate, supervise, and administer interscholastic athletic competition among its member schools. This purpose shall be accomplished by cooperating with all agencies concerned with the health and educational welfare of high school and middle school students; determining qualifications of individual contestants, coaches and officials; providing information through literature and other materials to facilitate athletic relations among member schools; establishing standards for sportsmanship and competition and furnishing protection against exploitation of school or student and in any manner directed by member schools.

The management of the Association of the Board of Control, District Boards and Commissioner, and other such persons designated by the Board of Control make up the administrative body of the OHSAA. All sport regulations of the Ohio High School Athletic Association are strictly adhered to by all concerned with the Madison Christian School Athletic Department.

Mid Ohio Christian Athletic League (MOCAL) The purpose of these associations shall be to foster and improve amateur athletics and other extracurricular school activities among the member schools; to institute, regulate, and award championships in interscholastic sports; to promote uniformity in the arrangement and control of contests; to protect the mutual interest of the members of the association; and to develop good sportsmanship among all participants.

Athletic Administrator Associations (COIAAA) Central Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (OIAAA) Ohio Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association The purpose of participation in these associations is to continue to foster relationships among other athletic administrators locally, state-wide, and nationally.

State and Local Coaches’ Associations (High School Coaches) The purpose of participation in these associations is for continual improvement and networking among Ohio and Central Ohio coaches.

3 FinalForms

Students must be registered (signed up for the sport) on FinalForms in order to participate in any open gym, conditioning, practice or tryout. By registering, the parent/athlete will receive communication regarding that sport. Once tryouts are complete, if the athlete has made the team, all parent and student forms must be signed before the athlete is permitted to participate in an athletic contest.

Physical Examinations

● NO STUDENT MAY PARTICIPATE IN AN OPEN GYM, PRACTICE OR TRYOUT WITHOUT A CURRENT PHYSICAL ON FILE IN THE ATHLETIC OFFICE. ● The Ohio High School Athletic Association statement of parental permission and a record of physical examination must be kept on file in the Athletic Department for all participants in athletics. To obtain an OHSAA physical form, use one of these 2 options: ❏ On FinalForms, click on “Forms”, click on the last item in the green box (OHSAA PPE Physical), then click on the blue box to print. (Be sure you have filled out the OHSAA PPE Physician Questions form before printing.) ❏ Go to www.mcsathletics.org, click on Sports Medicine, Sports Physicals, then ​ ​ scroll to the bottom and click to print the OHSAA Pre-Participation Form. ● It is recommended that the students arrange their physical exams with their family doctors far in advance of the season. Completing the physical examination early will help assure that the student-athlete is not prevented from participation in the initial tryouts and/or practices due to failure to complete the appropriate physical examination. There are 3 options for completing a physical with a physician: ❏ Family doctor ❏ Free physical with an Ohio Health doctor (Click here, scroll, then open flyer to ​ ​ view available dates.) ❏ Minute Clinic (such as Kroger) or Urgent Care ● Please inform the coach of any special medical conditions, medications, or restrictions pertaining to your child.

4 Sports Offered

HIGH SCHOOL MIDDLE SCHOOL Fall Fall Cross Country – Boys Cross Country – Boys Cross Country – Girls Cross Country – Girls * – Boys Soccer – Coed Soccer – Boys Volleyball

Winter Winter – Boys Basketball – Boys Basketball – Girls Basketball – Girls Cheerleading Cheerleading * – Boys *Swimming – Girls

Spring Spring Baseball Softball * Track and Field – Boys Track and Field – Boys Track and Field – Girls Track and Field – Girls *The offering of these sports is dependent upon the number of interested participants. ​

Tryouts

The Athletic Department is sensitive to the needs of the athletes during the tryout period. Due to facility space, time constraints, number of equipment, and additional factors, limitations are placed on sizes of teams for each sport. The intent is to have a minimum of two days for the tryout period, subject to change.

● Choosing the members of the various teams is the responsibility of the coach(es). o When cuts are necessary, a coach will provide the following opportunities for each player: ● Coaches are to speak to each player individually about his/her strengths, weaknesses, and squad membership or reason for non-membership. This will be done as time permits; otherwise, an email will be sent to communicate the above items. ● Coaches will discuss options for those individuals who do not make the team. An alternative might be to assist as a manager or statistician on the team.

5 Eligibility

● All students in grades 6-12 must meet requirements for both OHSAA and Madison Christian School. ❏ OHSAA requirements ❏ MCS additional requirements* ▪ GPA must be a minimum of 2.0, receiving no failing grade (F) in the preceding nine weeks.

*If any student receives an “F” as a final nine-week grade, he/she should contact the high school principal to discuss academic probation.

Attendance

● Student-Athlete must be in attendance for a minimum of ½ day or the student cannot participate in their practice or contest that day (unless approved by the Athletic Director and High School Principal). ● MCS DOES NOT have a Friday attendance policy to participate on Saturdays. ● If a student-athlete does not participate in PE class, the student cannot participate in their practice or contest that day.

Transportation

All athletic events rely completely on parent transportation. NO STUDENT may drive to any AWAY contest. Parents who transport students must ensure they have a valid driver's license and current automobile insurance. Madison Christian School and its coaches DO NOT provide or organize transportation.

6 Student Athlete Expectations, Goals & Responsibilities

MCS believes extracurricular activities are necessary to supplement the curriculum of the school and provide meaningful and educational experiences for each student. Since participation in athletics is voluntary and all groups or organizations must exist within a framework of certain rules and regulations, the Athletic Department has developed the following policies: ● All athletes must abide by all regular school policies and the Ohio High School Athletic Association for the full duration of their season including all conditioning sessions and the postseason competitions (tournaments). ● Appropriate care must be taken of all equipment, school facilities, and properties. Athletes will be held financially responsible for any damage or loss through their negligence. ● All athletes shall report any injuries or illness to their respective coaches immediately upon occurrence. ● Before athletes are permitted to engage in any open gym, practice or tryout, they must be registered on FinalForms and have a current physical on file in the athletic office. ● The athlete shall be expected to attend all required practices, meetings, and contests. o The appropriate coach shall be notified of an absence. ● Athletes must arrive and be ready to play (practice or a game) by the times indicated (may be different for each team). o Consequences for missed practices/games (including detentions or other unexcused reasons) will be determined by coaching staff. ● No season is over until all contests and tournament games are completed. Refusal to participate through the end of the season shall result in the loss of any awards or recognition. ● Athletes who are under any type of medication shall have on file with the coach (or athletic director) a note from the parent/guardian and/or doctor. ● Athletes who engage in any criminal activity or violations of civil law will be denied participation in an extracurricular program. ● The use of alcohol, tobacco products and illegal drugs is prohibited. ● Playing time is based on skill level, effort, knowledge of plays, attendance, and attitude. ● Athletes are to listen, learn and apply the fundamentals of the game during practices and games. ● Athletes are to conduct themselves in a manner that is always pleasing to God, be supportive of their teammates and coaches, and always give to the best of their abilities at all times. ● Athletes should have realistic individual goals. Athletes will complete individual goal sheets prior to first game (as per certain coaches), and coaches will assist in helping develop athletes to meet their individual goals. ● Proper practice attire: Please see student handbook. ● No jewelry or metal hair accessories are to be worn during practices or games. ● Grades are more important than playing. Athletes need to schedule time to meet all responsibilities. Do not wait until the last minute to ask for help. If you need help, ask your teacher, parent or coach.

7 ● Water – Athletes should bring bottled water or water bottles. Drink a lot of water (every day). Students may drink bottled water in class. Sports drinks - Gatorade, PowerAde, etc. drink during lunch or right after school. Sports drinks do not guarantee to hydrate you during competition. Water is suggested during all games. ● Nutrition - Do not eat excessive amounts of candy, chips, and other junk foods. Eat a light snack one hour before game time. ● Athletes should foster sportsmanship at all times. It is the privilege of each one of us associated with athletics to manifest our principles in our own actions. Failure to comply with these rules will result in expulsion from the team as well as further disciplinary action. o Visiting teams are guests of Madison Christian School and are to be treated with respect and courtesy at all times. o The rules of the game are to be observed by all. Absolutely no unsportsmanlike conduct will be tolerated. Athletes ejected from a game by a referee are subject to further disciplinary action by the Athletic Director, including possible expulsion from the team for the remainder of the season. o Fighting at an athletic event regardless of the circumstances will never be tolerated. Violators will be subject to disciplinary action. ● It is the responsibility of each athlete to do everything in his/her power to promote good sportsmanship in a Christ-like manner at Madison Christian School. o The athlete must realize that he/she represents a tradition of fairness and compassion in competition. o The athlete is to develop the self control necessary to perform one’s best in competition and prepare for the future; avoiding poor sportsmanship, loss of temper, fighting, abusive language and/or gestures. o The athlete is to learn that performing to the best of one’s ability is far more important than winning or losing.

8 Spectator Expectations & Responsibilities

Attending an athletic event means that the spectator has assumed responsibility for proper representation of Madison Christian School, just as the athlete does. These rules apply to all spectators, students and parents alike. ● Spectators should conduct themselves in a Christ-like manner – remembering that you are representing MCS at all times. ● Spectators are to appreciate and give proper recognition to the good of others. ● Parents are to be supportive of your child, give positive reinforcement and have an accepting behavior of your child’s abilities. ● Parents should trust the coaching staff to be good role models and Christian examples of what is right for the players, sport and school. ● Spectators are always to regard the official’s decision as final. ● Spectators are to cheer positively and are to completely avoid “booing” and abusive language. ● Spectators are not permitted to engage in any kind of intentional display of rude behavior (such as turning their backs on members of the opposing team, cheerleaders, and band). ● Spectators are to respect and obey property regulations established by each school. ● Parents should make transportation arrangements for your child to and from away games. Athletes should arrive at away games at the time deemed by the coach. ● Athletes should be picked up when practice is over. Parents late for pick up may cause their child not to start or play in the next game. ● Parents who are asked to leave or be removed from a game by coaching or MCS staff will be subject to a minimum three game suspension. If you are removed by a game official, you will be suspended from all home and away competitions for the remainder of the season. ● No possession or consumption of alcoholic beverages. ● No possession or use of drugs. ● No smoking in gymnasium, soccer/baseball/softball fields. ● Food and drink is permitted in the gymnasium (subject to change with no warning). ● Whenever possible all spectators should remain in the stands.

These rules are in effect at both home and away games for Madison Christian School athletes, students, spectators, and parents, even when not observed by opposing teams and fans. Failure to meet these standards will result in disciplinary action. Situations will be reported to the Athletic Director. Any student(s)/adult(s) involved will meet with the Athletic Director and Coach. Because we are a Christian school, more is expected from us in terms of how we live our Christian faith and values, even on the athletic field. A difference must be seen in our behavior, etiquette, and sportsmanship.

9 Chain of Communication

If you have concerns to discuss with the coach please follow the following procedures:* *Taken from OHSAA Respect the Game

It is often very difficult to accept that your child is not playing as much as you may hope. Coaches are professionals. They spend many hours preparing in and out of season for the success of our student-athletes. They make judgments based on what they believe to be the best for all the athletes involved. If you or your child is unhappy with some aspect of the team, please follow this procedure.

Student-athlete approaches the coach with any appropriate concerns…

If they are not satisfied:

Parent should call the coach and set up an appointment to discuss any appropriate concerns. ● Appropriate Concerns to Discuss with Coaches o The treatment of your child mentally and physically o Ways to help your child improve o Concerns about your child’s behavior o College options and recruiting

● Issues not Appropriate to Discuss with Coaches o Playing time o Team strategy o Play calling (offense or defense) o Other student-athletes

PLEASE DO NOT ATTEMPT to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both​ the parent and the coach. Meetings of this nature do not generally result in a mutually profitable outcome.

What can a parent do if the meeting with the coach did not provide a satisfactory solution? Call and set up an appointment with the Athletic Director to discuss the situation.

At this meeting the appropriate next step can be determined.

Since research indicates a student involved in extracurricular activities has a greater chance for success during adulthood, these programs have been established. Many of the character traits required to be a successful participant are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school. We hope the information provided within this handbook make both your child’s and your experience with the Madison Christian School Athletic Program more enjoyable.

10 Volunteer Requirement (Concessions/Ticket gate*)

● Parents of student-athletes participating in a sport will be required to sign up for a MINIMUM of 3 volunteer spots per season.** ● Volunteer opportunities include working in concessions and taking money at the ticket gate. ● Volunteers will sign up using a website called Signup.com. ● An email will be sent home at the beginning of each sport season with instructions on how to use the Signup.com website.

*There may be other sport-specific volunteer positions necessary. **Parents may opt out of this requirement by paying a fee at the beginning of the season or will be fined.

Equipment and Uniforms

Team uniforms, warm ups, and equipment are the property of Madison Christian School and must be treated with care. Uniforms must be kept clean and under security. Uniforms and warm-ups are for game use only and not to be worn for street wear. School issued team warm ups are for use on game days only. Report any loss, theft or damage to uniforms and warm ups to your coach. Lost, stolen, intentionally damaged uniforms and/or equipment must be replaced at cost. NOTE: Since uniforms and warm ups must be ordered in lots of one dozen or half dozen, carelessness becomes expensive. Equipment will be repaired or replaced at athlete’s expense, at over the counter cost. We will notify you concerning the amount owed. ● Athletes are responsible for bringing their entire uniform to each game. ● Washing Tips o No liquid fabric softener o Well water (red out/iron out) o Hang dry (dryers can damage uniform) ● Not to be worn outside of scheduled MCS events ● Any uniform NOT returned in good condition will be subject to financial penalty

At the end of each season, all uniform components and equipment must be returned in good condition one week following the last contest to the Athletic Department. No athlete will be issued equipment for the next season until items from the previous season are returned. Award recognition, grades and diplomas will be withheld until uniforms and equipment are returned.

11 Sports/Equipment Fees

Sports fees help cover: ● athletic training services ● field rental/facility maintenance ● contest personnel ● officials/umpires

Equipment fees cover (depending on sport): ● long sleeve warm-up shirt ● socks ● team polo ● jersey ● belt ● hat ● practice vest ● “Eagles for a Cause” shirt

Discounts include: ● playing multiple seasons ● family max per season

Additional fee information: ● Paying the fee does not guarantee an athlete’s playing time. ● The student-athlete’s participation may be affected if the fee is not paid by the designated date. ● Refunds will not be issued if a student-athlete becomes ineligible.

12 Postseason Awards

At the conclusion of each sports season, a ceremony is held to honor the accomplishments of the teams and student-athletes. All athletes, parents and guests are strongly encouraged to attend.

Varsity Letter Criteria

● The athlete must comply with all requirements regarding eligibility in terms of his/her enrollment and academic standing.

● The athlete must have attended practices, meetings and contests as designated by the coaching staff.

● The athlete must complete the regular season and postseason academically eligible.

● All students not receiving a varsity letter are recognized with a participation certificate. Sport-specific criteria for earning a varsity letter will be communicated at the preseason parent meeting.

● Varsity Awards

st ❏ 1 ​ year lettering: Letter & emblem of sport n​ d ❏ 2 ​ year lettering: Bar r​ d ❏ 3 ​ year lettering: Bar t​ h ❏ 4 ​ year lettering: Star ​ ❏ Captain of team: Captain

Additional Awards

● “Iron Eagle” Award - Any student-athlete who competes in all 3 seasons within the academic year. These athletes will receive a plaque at the end-of-year sports ceremony.

● “Golden Eagle” Award - Any senior who earns 4 varsity letters in one sport at MCS. These athletes will receive a ¼ zip jacket.

13 Eagle Leadership Experience

The Eagle Leadership Experience is designed for Sophomore and Junior student-athletes for the purpose of developing strong Christian leaders. The ELE process is designed to give students the skills to lead; the qualities to be a leader; and to help develop the needed attitudes and abilities to excel in whatever the student pursues going forward. This experience is for those who are committed to their own intellectual and spiritual growth.

The ELE process incorporates a mentoring approach to provide you with the guidance, support, encouragement, resources, and experiences to help you reveal and express the unique leader that resides within you.

ELE is open to those qualifying student-athletes who are prepared to pursue their own development and contribute to the spiritual, academic, emotional, social and physical development of others. Participating students will receive a leadership cord to wear at ​ graduation after successfully completing two years of ELE during their Sophomore and Junior years.

Athletic Training

What is Athletic Training? Athletic training is a profession practiced by Certified Athletic Trainers, healthcare professionals who specialize in the prevention, assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of injuries and illnesses. All Certified Athletic Trainers hold, at minimum, a Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training. According to the National Athletic Training Association, nearly 70% of Certified Athletic Trainers hold a Master’s degree or higher. In Ohio, it is required that Athletic Trainers also become licensed.

Services* ● A Certified Athletic Trainer will be present at all HOME contests. ● Injury evaluation ● Rehabilitation of athletic injuries ● Post-surgical rehabilitation ● Concussion management / Baseline (Impact) Testing ● Communication between coaches, athletes, and parents ● Referrals for orthopedic injuries and illness ● First aid and emergency care

*Contact the Athletic Trainer to schedule an appointment. Go to www.mcsathletics.org and ​ ​ click​ on Sports Medicine Information.

OhioHealth Sports Medicine provides a 24/7 hotline for Orthopaedic referrals. Please call (614) 566-GAME (4263) to speak with an OhioHealth Athletic Trainer.

14 Risk of Participation

● Participation in interscholastic athletics can lead to possible injury.

● Although most injuries are minor in nature, it is possible that an injury could occur that is severe enough to cause a person to become paraplegic or quadriplegic or result in death.

● Madison Christian School and staff have taken every precaution to prevent such injuries, but such risk does exist.

● Madison Christian School is not liable for any injury or death due to participation in the sports program.

Conclusion

Competition and participation in athletic events contributes to the physical, emotional, and spiritual development of Christian School students. It gives students the opportunity to test and display their skill before others. Mature and healthy Christian relationships between schools and athletes should be the fruit of competition between schools and players.

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