2016-2017 Athletic Handbook

2016-2017

ATHLETIC HANDBOOK Grades 3-6 (Private School League) Grades 7-12

(Arkansas Activities Association

Jackson T. Stephens Campus 1701 Cantrell Road Little Rock, AR 72201 501-372-1194 www.episcopalcollegiate.org

This Handbook is intended to serve as a guide to help students and their families come to know Episcopal Collegiate School’s athletic programs and opportunities as well as to set forth basic expectations and agreements. Please take the time to familiarize yourself with the contents.

Please understand that no set of rules or guidelines can cover every conceivable situation that might arise. The rules, policies and procedures set forth in this Handbook are intended to apply under normal circumstances. However, from time to time, there may be situations that require immediate or nonstandard responses. This Handbook does not limit the authority of Episcopal Collegiate School to deviate from the normal rules and procedures set forth in this Handbook, and to deal with individual circumstances as they arise in the manner deemed most appropriate by the School taking into consideration the best interests of the School, its faculty, employees, students or overall school community. The policies may also be revised or updated periodically, even during the school year. Families will be advised of any changes as they are made either electronically (email) or by mail. Any student or parent with a question about any handbook policy or statement should feel free to speak with the Athletic Director or Head of the School. Mission Statement

Episcopal Collegiate School, rooted in the Episcopal tradition and affirming all faiths, strives to develop in its students respect for all persons, reverence of God, and a sense of moral responsibility. Through extensive co-curricular and athletic programs, students will develop strength of body and character and learn discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship. Episcopal Collegiate seeks and welcomes a vibrant student body, rich in diversity, where students live and honor the School’s core values of respect, reverence, and responsibility and carry those values beyond the School community into their futures.

Philosophy and Purpose

The Episcopal Athletic Program is an education-based program is designed to further the mission of the School and to contribute to student’s physical, spiritual, moral, and social development. The Athletic Program will strive to develop a student’s physical skills and abilities and will focus on sportsmanship, teamwork, leadership, cooperation, citizenship, loyalty, character, and personal responsibility.

Warning of Inherent Risk/Dangers of Athletic Participation

Participation in athletics includes the risk of injury, which may range in severity from minor to disabling to even death. Although serious injuries are not common in supervised programs, it is impossible to eliminate the risk. Participants do have a responsibility to help reduce the chance of injury. Participants must obey all safety rules, report all physical problems to the coach or athletic trainer, follow guidelines for safe play and inspect his/her own equipment and report any problems.

Athletic Program

The School offers an interscholastic competitive athletic program for grades 7-12, which is governed by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). The athletic program for 3rd through 6th grade students is governed by the Private School Developmental Football League (FB) and the Private School Basketball League (BB) regulations. Episcopal students in grades 3-12 who wish to participate in the School’s athletic program must meet the participation requirements as outlined by these organizations. In addition, the School reserves the right to develop its own requirements for athletic participation. The School also reserves the right to modify this Handbook during the school year when, in its determination, circumstances warrant doing so.

Episcopal Collegiate will offer its Middle and Upper School students the opportunity to participate in the following sports for the 2016-2017 school year. The Athletic Director will determine how many teams the School will sponsor in each sport.

Fall Grades Cheerleading 7-12 Girls’ Cross Country 7-12 Boys’ Cross Country 7-12 Girls’ Golf 9-12 Boys’ Golf 9-12 Boys’ Football 5-12 Girls’ Volleyball 7-12 Girls’ Tennis 7-12 Boys’ Tennis 7-12

Winter Cheerleading 7-12 Girls’ Basketball 3-12 Boys’ Basketball 3-12 Wrestling 7-12

Spring Boys’ Soccer 7-12 Girls’ Soccer 7-12 Girls’ Softball 9-12 Boys’ Baseball 9-12 Girls’ Track 7-12 Boys’ Track 7-12 MS Golf 6-8 (First Tee)

Requirements for Athletic Participation

At the beginning of each sport season, each coach should call a team meeting for prospective athletes and their parents, presenting them with a written copy of all team rules and requirements.

In addition to team rules established by the coach, all students who participate in competitive athletics must adhere to the following:

1. Comply with all standards of conduct and sportsmanship contained in the Athletic Handbook. These standards of conduct and sportsmanship apply to all school- sponsored athletic events, including travel required to participate in a sporting event.

2. Comply with the Grade Eligibility requirements as set forth by the Arkansas Activities Association and the School. Failure to maintain the requisite grade requirements will result in the athlete not being allowed to participate.

3. Comply with all requirements of the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA), Private School Developmental Football League (FB), the Private School Basketball League (BB) and any other association/league, which Episcopal may become affiliated with in the future. A copy of AAA and league rules shall be maintained by the Athletic Director and by all coaches. AAA Handbook can be found at www.ahsaa.org.

4. A student may not participate in an after-school practice or competition if he/she was not present in school for that day. If a student is absent for more than half of the school day (arriving later than 11:35am), he/she may not participate in after-school extra-curricular activities on that day. Students who check out early for health or medical reasons on school days during which they have an afternoon or evening athletic competition or other school performance may not participate in those activities.

5. A student may not participate in an athletic event if the student missed any team practices the week of or prior to the athletic event. This provision will not apply if:

a. The student missed practice(s) due to illness or injury and provides the coach with a written note signed by a parent, guardian, or physician.

b. The student receives prior approval from the coach for missing practice(s).

6. A student and his/her parents must have signed and submitted to the Athletic Director the following documents:

a. Acknowledgement that the student and his/her parents or guardians have read and will abide by the Athletic Handbook.

b. A physical exam release (dated prior to participation and good for one calendar year) signed by the student’s physician. Athletes must pass a physical examination at least once every 365 days. The exam must be performed by a licensed physician.

c. An emergency medical release (permit to treat).

d. A release of liability and release of risk of injury.

e. A release of liability relating to transportation to and from any sporting event. The Release pertains to parent drivers, transportation by school bus, or any other method of transportation arranged for a particular event.

f. Concussion Fact Sheet for Parents and Athletes:

g. Any other documentation that the School deems necessary.

7. A student and his family must have signed in a timely manner the School’s Acknowledgement of 2016-2017 Family Handbook: Upper and Middle School.

A student may not be allowed practice or participate in any athletic practice or competition until all the above documentation has been properly executed and submitted to the Athletic Director. The School reserves the right to restrict at its discretion athletic participation.

Sportsmanship

Episcopal Collegiate School student athletes, coaches and supporters must demonstrate good sportsmanship and citizenship by demonstrating respect for teammates, coaches, opponents, opponents’ supporters, officials and the property of others. The School’s student athletes and coaches are expected to be responsible for their behavior both on and off campus and to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the high expectations for all Episcopal Collegiate students and teachers.

Student athletes and coaches should demonstrate honesty, self-discipline and integrity and serve as role models for other students, particularly for younger students. Student athletes must be respectful of the judgment and decisions of their coaches and student athletes and coaches must be respectful of the judgment and decisions of officials. Student athletes and coaches must also respect teammates and opponents. The athletic director and/or head coach will manage any disagreements with coaches, officials, teammates, opponents and or fans. Profanity by either a coach or student athlete is not condoned and will not be tolerated.

Consequences for Violating Sportsmanship Policies (Coaches and Athletes)

At a minimum, the following guidelines may be applied:

I. First Level Infraction – Examples of first level infractions, include but are not limited to: h. profanity by an athlete or coach i. taunting of teammates/opponents or fans j. display of poor sportsmanship

Consequences for first level infractions, may include but are not limited to: · Team penalties · Student and coach conference · Parent call or meeting · Reporting infraction to Athletic Director · Coach and Athletic Director conference · Formal warning · Withdrawal/restriction of playing and/or practice privileges · Behavioral contract

II. Second Level Infraction – Examples of second level infractions, may include but are not limited to: · repeated first level infraction · repeated second level infraction · frequent and flagrant use of profanity by athlete or coach · flagrant and frequent taunting of teammates/opponents or fans · flagrant and frequent displays of poor sportsmanship in public setting · fighting

Consequences for second level infractions may include but are not limited to: · Any consequence or combination of consequences outlined for first level infractions · Reporting incident to Division Head and/or Head of School · Meeting with School administration · Suspension from team · Dismissal from team · Dismissal from sport and/or athletic program for school year · Permanent dismissal from sport and/or athletic program

Nothing in this Athletic Handbook shall prevent a student athlete from being suspended from School, expelled from School, or otherwise disciplined if such consequences are appropriate under the Codes of Conduct set forth in the School’s Community Handbook.

Likewise, nothing in this Handbook will prevent an athlete from being suspended from competition or dismissed from a School team, if the rules of the Arkansas Activities Association, Private School Developmental Football League, Private School Basketball League or any other association/league that Episcopal may become affiliated with, require such consequences.

Sportsmanship Policies and Guidelines for Parents, School Supporters and Patrons

All supporters and patrons of Episcopal Collegiate School who attend School sponsored athletic events are expected to conduct themselves in a manner consistent with the Mission of the School. Parents and patrons are expected to demonstrate mature behavior and good sportsmanship. The Arkansas Activities Association requires Episcopal to be prepared to “expel [from any sporting event] and/or prosecute any person” whose “unsportsmanlike conduct” violates any of the laws of the State of Arkansas.

In addition, Episcopal parents, supporters and patrons should adhere to the following sportsmanship guidelines during competition:

· Always cheer in a positive manner. Positive cheering leads to positive results.

· Do not talk to officials before, during, or after the competition.

· Keep all comments about officiating to a minimum. Athletes need to concentrate on what is about happen, not on what has already happened.

· LEAVE CONCERN FOR OFFICIATING TO THE ATHLETIC

STAFF. · Please do not communicate with student athletes from the start of warm-up until the end of competition, other than to cheer their efforts. It is important that athletes remain focused on their responsibilities to their team. · Fans should be seated in bleachers or remain in designated areas away from the team and playing areas.

Any parent, supporter or patron, who in the judgment of the Athletic Director, the Head of the Middle School, the Head of the Upper School, and/or the Head of School, displays inappropriate conduct at a School sponsored athletic event may be expelled from that event and barred from future athletic events. If a parent, supporter or patron is barred from attending future events, the parent or patron may request the Head of School to review the matter. The decision of the Head of School is final.

Athletic Playing Time

3rd, 4th, 5th and 6th Grade (Football/Basketball): 5th and 6th grade students will participate in the Football and Basketball Private School Leagues (PSL), while 3rd and 4th grade students will participate in PSL basketball only. Each program will emphasize the development of each student’s individual skills, strategies associated with the sport, and the enjoyment of competing. To comply with league requirements, attempts will be made to allow each player an opportunity to play a predetermined minimum amount of time during each competition. All students wishing to participate on a team will be given the opportunity to participate. League rules may also mandate the splitting of school teams and may mandate playing times.

Middle School The Middle School program (grades 6-8) is designed to meet the developmental needs of its participants. The purpose of the program is to develop skills, sportsmanship, and behaviors that are essential to being part of a team. Coaches are instructed to make every effort to get each child in every game or to develop a rotation of players for different games that will ensure quality playing time in as many games as possible.

If the Athletic Director determines that the School will sponsor a seventh and/or eighth grade team(s), playing time will follow the Junior High format listed below.

Junior High Seventh, eighth, and ninth grade students are eligible to participate on the Junior High teams. Team and individual skills are reinforced in preparing student athletes for the more competitive varsity schedule. Coaches will attempt to give playing time to all Junior High team members. The amount of playing time is determined by the coach with a goal of providing as many team members as possible with quality playing time in as many games as possible; however, it is not likely that playing time will be equal nor is likely that there will be a set number of predetermined minutes for each team member. In determining playing time, the coach will take into account an athlete’s skill level, attendance record at practice, effort, willingness to follow direction, sportsmanship, attitude, and the student’s overall physical and mental preparation.

Players can concurrently play on the Junior High team as well as on their individual grade level team. The decision for a younger player to “play up” will be made by the Division Head, Athletics Director and coach. They will take in consideration the individual’s social development, academic standing and physical development. Individuals moving to the junior high team from the 7th grade team must be considered to be within the top third of the players athletically to participate at this level. It is disadvantageous for a younger player to “play up,” yet set on the bench most of the game. The philosophy of the athletic department is that playing time at a lower level is more important than moving up. In basketball, the total number of players will be limited to 22. The coaching staff will select team members. All seventh and eighth grade players might not attend or participate in the junior high games but must attend all grade level games as scheduled.

Varsity Grade 9-12 students are eligible to participate on the Varsity team. The varsity teams play a competitive schedule including both independent and public schools. Our commitment to excellence requires that we field the best team available from among our student athletes. Varsity selection is based on skill and maturity of the student athlete. Each student athlete’s skill level is re-evaluated at the beginning of the new season for team membership. The amount of playing time, if any, is determined by the coach with a goal of providing as many team members as possible with quality playing time in as many games as possible; however, it is not likely that playing time will be equal nor is likely that every team member will play in every game. In determining playing time, and based on the situation during any point in a game, the coach will take into account an athlete’s skill level, attendance record at practice, effort, willingness to follow direction, sportsmanship, attitude, and the student’s overall physical and mental preparation.

Financial Obligations

Uniforms and Equipment In most cases, Episcopal will provide the necessary uniforms and equipment needed for participation, and they must be returned to the School after the season. Athletes should never alter any equipment issued by the School because doing so will invalidate certification of such equipment. Athletes are expected to return uniforms in the same condition as when the student received it, less any reasonable and expected wear and tear. A student’s family must reimburse the School for any equipment and/or uniforms that are not cared for in the proper manner. A student will not be allowed to participate in any other sport until all issued uniforms and equipment are returned, and all payments due are paid to the School. Athletic Related Fees Some sports may require the purchase of equipment/uniforms or the payment of certain fees in order to participate. Any such payments will be reasonable and will be published at the time student’s sign up for participation on a team.

Any family unable to meet the financial obligations for participation should contact the Athletic Director for possible assistance.

Participation on Non-School Teams

A student who is a member of an Episcopal athletic team may be prohibited from joining a non-school athletic team by virtue of rules established by the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA). Students who violate this prohibition will not be eligible to participate on the Episcopal team. To ensure compliance with AAA rules, the student must speak with the Athletic Director before joining a non-school team.

AAA Guidelines: A student who is a member of a school’s team and who is engaged in interscholastic competition may not try out for, practice with, or otherwise participate with, or be a member of a non-school athletic team in the same sport, in season, without losing eligibility for up to a full year from the date of such participation with the non-school team.

This limitation shall apply to the team sports of football, basketball, volleyball, baseball, softball, and soccer. However, a member of an interscholastic baseball, softball or soccer team may try out for or practice with a non-school team on days when the school team does not practice or play.

Leaving a Team

If an athlete desires to leave an Episcopal team during the season, the student must provide a letter, signed by the student and his/her parents or guardians, to the coach and the Athletic Director. The letter must be presented before the student has ceased attending practices or competitions. The student may not participate on another Episcopal athletic team until the letter has been received by the coach and Athletic Director, and the season of the sport he/she left is over. If a student leaves a team and later desires to be reinstated to the team, the student must seek the permission of the Athletic Director. The Athletic Director will make a decision based upon the Athletic Director’s opinion as to what is best for the team and for the individual athlete.

Use of Athletic Facilities

Students must have permission to use the School’s athletic facilities and must be supervised by Episcopal staff when doing so. The student is required to follow all posted safety rules. A student who violates this policy will face disciplinary consequences as determined by the Athletic Director.

Awards

Episcopal will present awards to student athletes. The awards available each year will be determined by the Athletic Director and the appropriate athletic staff. An athlete is not eligible to receive an award if he/she resigned from a team (and not granted reinstatement) or if the student was academically ineligible to compete for 1/2 of the sport season and did not conclude the season in good academic standing. If a student was unable to participate on a team due to illness or injury, the student remains eligible to receive an award. The student must provide the Athletic Director with a written note, signed by a physician or the team trainer, confirming that injury or illness precluded the student from participating on the team.

Lettering Criteria

Lettering is limited to the varsity level only. An athlete must be in good standing at the conclusion of the season and have had participated in one-fourth of the athletic contestants available in the sport. A senior athlete who has been in good standing and participated in the athletic program for his or her entire stay at Episcopal and not earned a letter, will be awarded a letter. The Episcopal athletic program feels it is important to reward those seniors for their loyalty and dedication. A coach who wishes to letter an athlete who has not met the seasonal requirements should discuss this with the Athletic Director prior to awarding a letter. Any athlete who plays regularly and was hereafter injured may be awarded a letter if, in the coach’s judgment, the athlete would have met the lettering requirements.

Transportation

Transportation to and from sporting events will be provided by the School. In most cases, student athletes will not be allowed to drive their personal vehicles to sporting events.

Individual Vehicles: If transportation is by individual/personal vehicles, the student’s parents or guardians must sign a transportation consent permission form; indicating whether the student may drive only him/herself, has permission to transport another student(s) and identify said student(s) in writing, has permission to ride with another student or students and identify said student(s) in writing, or should only ride with a parent. The parents and students are responsible for making transportation arrangements among the identified parties; and students are responsible to adhere to them.

Bus: If transportation is to be by a bus operated by or on behalf of Episcopal Collegiate School, the student’s parents or guardians must sign a transportation release form to release Episcopal Collegiate School from any damage that could occur to the student while being transported. If a student travels to a practice, competition, or other event on the bus, the student must return to Episcopal Collegiate School on the bus. A student athlete may NOT return home by another means of transportation unless (1) the student is riding with his/her parent or guardian (not any other member of the family) and (2) the parent or guardian has provided the coach with a written note to this effect BEFORE the bus has departed from the Episcopal Collegiate School campus.

Alcohol and Drugs

Participation in Episcopal Collegiate School athletics is a privilege, not a right. When Episcopal students elect to participate on athletic teams, they assume a commitment to themselves, their teammates and the School to develop their athletic potential. As a result, it is important to remind student athletes of their responsibilities under the School’s Alcohol and Drug Policy.

The use of illicit drugs and alcohol in the School community are threats to the safety and health of students, faculty, staff, and the community as a whole. Their use compromises the quality of educational programs and can cause physical and emotional harm. Episcopal Collegiate School strives to maintain a substance free environment to foster a healthy, safe, and drug-free academic community.

No student may possess, use, be under the influence of, or provide to any other student, by sale or any other means, any substance that is, or is represented to be, a narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, amphetamine, barbiturate, marijuana, alcoholic beverage, stimulant, inhalant, legend drug, synthetic drug, depressant, or intoxicate of any kind, or any kind that closely resembles, or is represented to be any of the foregoing items, or any item that could be considered drug use paraphernalia. Students are also prohibited from possessing, ingesting, transmitting, or selling caffeine-based pills or substances containing pseudoephedrine or other over the counter stimulants.

The School reserves the right to screen students who display suspicious behavior for alcohol/drugs whenever on campus or at a School event. These measures can include, but are not limited to: hair follicle testing, blood testing, urinalysis, breath analysis, and biochemical testing for drugs and/or alcohol, bag checks, and various forms of sobriety tests. The cost of such screening/testing is the responsibility of the parents/guardians. Since the health and safety of the Episcopal Collegiate School community is at stake, there can be no expectation of privacy with respect to School or personal belongings.

Alcohol and drug abuse are pervasive throughout our culture. Any student or parent who comes to the School with concerns about abuse will find Episcopal Collegiate is willing to help in as much as possible.

Voluntary Disclosure or “Safe Harbor”

While a student is subject to the process set out above any time Episcopal Collegiate School becomes aware of specific conduct that violates the code regarding illicit substances, help is available for the student who struggles with addiction or substance abuse. Accordingly, students and/or families who approach school counselors, Leadership, or faculty members seeking general help, without being compelled by a disciplinary event, will be referred to appropriate health care professionals without disciplinary proceedings being commenced against the student. Students and families are urged to be proactive in seeking help that is available rather than waiting until a crisis or disciplinary event makes the substance abuse visible to school staff. Students can also report concerns regarding friends directly to a School Counselor or to the School. Continued enrollment at the School for any student in such a situation may require an amended contract or “drug-free agreement” to support the student and ensure their good health.

In addition to School consequences that may apply for violating this policy, student athletes may be subject to additional consequences for their use of prohibited substances. These consequences may include, but are not limited to, drug/alcohol counseling, suspension from athletic practices and games, dismissal from the team and dismissal from School’s athletic program. The School reserves the right to use its discretion in each individual case.

Episcopal Collegiate School Coaching Assignments 2016-17

Fall Winter Spring

VCH Madeline Moffett VCH Madeline Moffett JHCH Melissa (Wilson) Baker JHCH Melissa (Wilson) Baker 5-6 CH Molly Thicksten

V-MS XC Samuel Tamo VBBB Micah Marsh VBB Richie Marsh G GV-M S Kara Lenfestey AVBBB Brandon Friedel AVBB Jeff Barnett XC JHBBB Brandon Friedel 8BBB Lucas McHan HVFB Richie Marsh 7BBB Troy Jackson AVFB Will Cook 6BBB Parent Coaches VSB TBD AVFB Troy Jackson 6BBB Parent Coaches ASB TBD AVFB Jeff Barnett 5BBB Parent Coaches AVFB 4BBB Parent Coaches VBS Duke Ophof 3BBB Parent Coaches VGS Andrea Barnett JHFB Brandon Friedel AVGS Lindsey Duncan JHFB Lucas McHan VGBB Davario Hardy MSBS Lindsey Duncan JHFB Anthony Jemerson AVGBB Cole Lester MSGS Lindsey Duncan JHGBB Davario Hardy 5-6FB TBD 7GBB Monty Smith V TR TBD 5-6FB Parent Coaches 6GBB Schree Eackles AV TR Jerry Hutchinson 5BBB Parent Coaches 4BBB Parent Coaches MS TR Molly Keith HV Golf Micah Marsh 3BBB Parent Coaches MS TR TBD

HV TN Andrea Barnett MS TN Lindsey Duncan MSG Kyle Arnold (6-8)

VVB/JVVB Monty Smith AVVB VWR Amos Branson 9 VB Duke Ophof VWR Joe Hadden 8 VB Molly Keith VWR Will Cook 7 VB Monica Fiedorek

Trainer Tara McDaniel Trainer Tara McDaniel Trainer Tara McDaniel Trainer Michelle Edwards Trainer Michelle Edwards Trainer Michelle Edwards

Sports Medicine

General information regarding sports medicine policies and procedures is outlined below. All coaches are to be certified in CPR/AED and First Aid. For more information on any policy or topic please contact a member of the Sports Medicine Department. Additional Sports Medicine information can also be found on the Episcopal Collegiate School website under “Athletics” and the Arkansas Activities Association (AAA) website at http://www.ahsaa.org/activity/73/sports-medicine.

Physical Examinations EVERY athlete must have an updated physical examination by a medical doctor on file in the Sports Medicine office BEFORE the FIRST day of PRACTICE. All physicals are valid for one calendar year. Rule 14 of the AAA Handbook requires that any student engaging in interscholastic competition obtain a physical examination prior to beginning practice which will be valid for one calendar year. Physicals will be offered each spring at Arkansas Specialty Orthopedics on the date agreed upon by the Sports Medicine staff and Arkansas Specialty Orthopedics staff. Emergency Information and Treatment Authorization EVERY athlete must complete the Emergency Information and Treatment Authorization form with a copy of insurance card, ANNUALLY. This form with copy of insurance card should be on file in the Sports Medicine office BEFORE the FIRST day of PRACTICE.

Other Required Paperwork and Documentation The following forms are required to be completed and submitted to the Sports Medicine Department BEFORE the FIRST day of PRACTICE along with the Physical and Emergency Information and Treatment Authorization form: Acknowledgment of Risk Form; AAA Concussion Fact Sheet; Episcopal Collegiate School Alcohol and Drug Policy; Hydration Campaign. All forms can be found on the Episcopal Collegiate School website under “Athletics”. If you have any questions regarding any of the required paperwork, please contact a member of the Sports Medicine Department.

Special Medical Conditions Any athlete that has been prescribed an inhaler or Epi-pen should notify a member of the Sports Medicine Department and provide an extra inhaler or Epi-pen to keep in the team medical kit. This kit will be on the field for all games and practices. If the athlete has any other medical device and/or medication necessary for conditions that may arise during athletic participation, these devices and medications should also be provided. If the athlete has any other special medical conditions (i.e. diabetes, heat sensitivity, prior head injury, heart conditions, etc.) they must notify a member of the Sports Medicine Department of their condition(s) and include it on the Emergency Information and Treatment Authorization form.

Protective Equipment Protective equipment cannot and will not prevent all injuries but if used properly does minimize the risk and make sports activities safer. Athletes will wear the protective equipment that is required for their sport or they will not be permitted to participate.

Concussions Any athlete sustaining a mechanism consistent with a head injury who complains of ANY symptom of a concussion will be removed from competition for that day. Further care for that athlete will be at the discretion of the athletic trainer. The Sports Medicine staff will utilize a host of tools to determine return-to-play status for concussions. Included in those tools are the SCAT3 Sports Concussion Assessment Tool – 3rd Edition, which can be found at http://bjsm.bmj.com/content/47/5/259.full.pdf and ImPACT-Testing and Computerized Neurocognitive Assessment. More information on ImPACT-Testing can be found at https://www.impacttest.com/. The AAA has established Concussion Guidelines http://members.ahsaa.org/public/userfiles/SMAC/Concussion2.pdf and Graduated Return to Play Protocol http://members.ahsaa.org/public/userfiles/SMAC/Conc__RTP3.pdf to which will be adhered. The athletic trainer on duty is responsible for proper care of all concussions, and all athletes and coaches must adhere to these guidelines.

Conditioning and Acclimatization When athletes are not acclimatized to the environment in which they are about to perform they are more prone to injury and illness. Acclimatization takes 7 to 14 days of gradual exposure to the hot or cold environment in which they will be exercising. During this period athletes will be monitored for signs of heat/cold illness by the Sports Medicine staff and coaches.

Athletes who are in poor physical shape may not be able to perform the activities required of athletics. They are also more prone to injury and illness throughout the season. To ensure that our athletes are properly conditioned before they face the demands of game participation, all athletes (except for Golf participants and those transitioning from a school team sport to the next seasonal team sport) are required to participate in a minimum of 5 days of practice prior to game participation.

The Arkansas Activities Association has established guidelines for football pre-season practices regarding acclimatization. These guidelines can be found at http://members.ahsaa.org/public/userfiles/SMAC/football2012.pdf . The Sports Medicine staff will ensure that these guidelines are followed in their entirety during football pre- season.

Illness and Infections In order to help prevent infections including MRSA, athletes should be instructed to follow the guidelines below: 1) WASH HANDS!!!! WASH HANDS with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer often. 2) Shower after athletic practices and contests, especially if they involve close personal contact as in wrestling and football. 3) Wear shower shoes. 4) Wash athletic clothing regularly. 5) Wipe down any non-washable gear such as helmets and pads regularly. 6) DO NOT share personal items such as towels, soap, razors, clothing, and athletic equipment. 7) Cover ALL open wounds. 8) Report any suspicious looking areas to the athletic trainer or other healthcare provider.

EMERGENCY ACTION PLAN Episcopal Collegiate School 1701 Cantrell Rd., Little Rock, AR 72201

Purpose of EAP: To provide Episcopal Collegiate School with an emergency action plan (EAP) in case of a serious or life-threatening condition that arises during practice or competitions. Athletic Trainer(s) (ATCs), coaches, and others involved in athletics must constantly be on guard for potential injuries, and although the occurrence of limb-threatening or life-threatening emergencies is not common, the potential exists. Therefore, prepared emergency responders must have planned in advance for the action to be taken in the event of such an emergency. (Episcopal EAP’s are located within the Business/Operations office and the Athletic Director’s office in the Athletic Department)

Need for EAP: The EAP has been categorized as a written document that defines the standard of care required during an emergency situation. Serious emergencies rarely happen but when they do, a quick, organized response can make a difference between a successful and unsuccessful reaction to an emergency. An EAP that is well planned and rehearsed will provide responders with the tools they need for an effective response. Also of significance is the legal basis for the development and application of an emergency plan. It is well known that organizational medical personnel, including certified athletic trainers, have a legal duty as reasonable and prudent professionals to ensure high-quality care of the participants.

Emergency Qualifications: It is required that all ATCs and coaches are trained in CPR/AED and first aid. All new staff involved in athletic activities should comply with this rule prior to coaching during practices, and must comply prior to games. It is recommended that all personnel also be trained in the prevention of disease transmission. EMS will not be on site for every game or practice since they are located close enough to respond quickly to an emergency.

Responsibilities of Emergency Team Members: During home games, the home team ATC and the visiting ATC are responsible for their own teams but may assist the other ATC if needed. If an ATC is not present, all coaches are responsible for emergencies during practice and games until ATC, EMS, or doctor arrives on scene.

Emergency Contacts: Cell phones are carried by ATC’s, coaches, and athletic staff and even spectators, if necessary. The following is a list of important phone numbers needed in case of emergency.

Emergency Contact Names/Numbers: EMS, Fire, Police: 911 Poison Control Hotline: 1-800-222-1222 Front Gate: X2458 Tara McDaniel (Athletic Trainer): 870-897-1026 Michele Edwards (Athletic Trainer): 501-772-4103 Davario Hardy (Athletic Director): 501-519-3676 Amos Branson (Associate Athletic Director): 501-747-0036 Tom Charlton (Director of Finance and Operations): 501-813-6522 Matt Radtke (Director of Institutional Advancement/Communications): 803-240-4571

Emergency Information and Treatment Authorization Form

Emergency Information Card

Student’s Name ______Address ______City ______State ______Zip ______

Emergency Numbers: Contact #1 ______Relationship ______Home # ______Work # ______Mobile # ______

Contact #2 ______Relationship ______Home # ______Work # ______Mobile # ______

Insurance Information: Insurance Company ______Group Number ______Policy/ID Number ______

****Please attach a copy of insurance card****

______

In case of accident or serious injury, I request that the school contact me. If the school is unable to reach me, or in the case of an emergency, I hereby authorize the school to make the proper arrangements and take the necessary action to treat my child.

Allergies: ______

Any other conditions or special instructions (i.e. asthma, diabetes, heat sensitivity, prior head injury, or heart conditions): ______

Signature of Parent or Guardian ______Date ______

Acknowledgement of Risk

In consideration of being allowed to participate in The Episcopal Collegiate School Athletic Program and related events and activities, the undersigned: 1. Acknowledge and fully understand that each participant will be engaging in activities which involve the risk of injury or death. The injury could be serious or catastrophic, including permanent disability. 2. Assume all the foregoing risks and accept personal responsibility for damages following such injury, permanent disability, and/or death.

Athlete Signature Date

Parent /Legal Guardian (signature / relationship) Date

Release of Liability

I, as a parent or guardian of , hereby give permission Student’s Name

for my child to participate in The Episcopal Collegiate School Athletic Program and its related events and activities. I acknowledge the fact that he/she is participating in sports activities which could involve the risk of serious injury or death. I hereby authorize the certified athletic trainers, coaches, and other employees of Episcopal Collegiate School to act for me according to their best judgment in any emergency requiring medical attention. I acknowledge that I will be responsible for any cost incurred due to sickness or injury to my son or daughter. I hereby waive any claim that I or my child may have, now or in the future, against Episcopal Collegiate School and its employees, from any and all claims, expenses, liability, costs or fees (including attorney fees) which arise from or are related to my child’s participation in the athletic program and its related events and activities.

Parent /Legal Guardian (signature / relationship) Date

Acknowledgement of Responsibility The Episcopal Collegiate School concession stand is open at many athletic events and revenue generated from the concession stand helps to fund the athletic program of the School. This concession stand is made possible by the work of parent volunteers. As the parent/guardian of a participating student/athlete in Lower, Middle or Upper School, I acknowledge that it is my family’s responsibility to volunteer to work the concession stand for a minimum of two (2) shifts per season of participation. I understand volunteering at events other than that of my child, also count towards the minimum shifts.

Parent /Legal Guardian (signature) Date

Episcopal Collegiate School Alcohol and Drug Policy

Participation in Episcopal Collegiate School athletics is a privilege, not a right. When Episcopal students elect to participate in athletic teams, they assume a commitment to themselves, their teammates and the school to develop their athletic potential. The Episcopal Collegiate School Athletic Department recognizes that the use of alcohol, tobacco, and other illegal substances has negative effects on behavior, learning and total development of each individual. The department believes that the use of these substances has no place whatsoever in Episcopal athletics. Therefore, the School prohibits the possession, use, distribution or sale of such substances. This policy applies to any student who is on School property, in attendance at any School-sponsored activity, or on a School bus and may apply to students engaged in these types of activities done outside school hours and/or off the School’s campus.

Nothing in the Athletic Handbook shall prevent a student athlete from also being disciplined consistent with the Alcohol and Drug provisions as set forth in the School’s Community Handbook. (The complete Alcohol and Drug Policy can also be found in the Athletic Handbook.) THIS FORM MUST BE SIGNED BY THE ATHLETE AND THE ATHLETE’S PARENT AND TURNED INTO THE ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT PRIOR TO ENTERING INTO ANY ATHLETIC CONTEST REPRESENTING EPISCOPAL COLLEGIATE SCHOOL. I have read and understand the Alcohol and Drug policies of Episcopal Collegiate School. By signing this form, I/we understand that participating in athletics at Episcopal Collegiate School is a privilege granted by the school and that I will be governed by the above rules of conduct while participating in any Episcopal Collegiate School sponsored practice or athletic contest.

______Athlete’s Name (Printed) Athlete’s Signature Date

______Parent’s Name (Printed) Parent’s Signature Date

Episcopal Collegiate

School

Pass

$100.00

I w ould li ke to order @ $100.0 0 =

(Ep i scop al stude nts wi th ID or in uniform a d m it t e d

FR E E)

Nam e:

Phone #

Annual Athletic Make checks payable to Episcopal Collegiate School

Links to pertinent sites:

National Collegiate Athletic Association

Arkansas Activities Association

National Federation of High Schools

Guide for College Bound Athletes

Arkansas Wrestling Association

NFHS Dehydration/Heat Illness Guidelines

AAA Concussion Awareness Guidelines

AAA Concussion Guidelines

Concussions - A Silent Epidemic

D-Up against MRSA