Introduction

Participation in a school sponsored sport is a privilege. Sports are important components in our total education program. Successful participation requires a higher level of commitment, energy and maturity.

It is the goal of St. Paul's Catholic School to expect a higher standard of excellence from our athletes who will be representing our school in our neighborhood and other communities. Their standard of behavior should be one that exhibits pride, politeness and responsibility.

Philosophy

The philosophy of the sports program at St. Paul's Catholic School is to help young people develop…

a)Physically, by learning sport skills, improving physical conditioning, developing good health habits, and avoiding injuries.

b)Emotionally, by learning to control emotions and to develop feelings of self-worth.

c)Socially, by learning how to cooperate in a competitive context and by learning appropriate standards of behavior (sportsmanship).

We practice to win, we play to win, and we come home winners regardless of the score, if we have done our best.

A Christian Sports Code

      As a player, coach, cheerleader, fan, or official, I will...

·         Positively represent the Catholic Community of St. Paul's at all times.

·          Never attempt to abusively rattle an opposing player.

·         Play fairly and according to the rules.

·         Present proper appearance. (I.e. shirts tucked in.)

·         Accept the official1s judgment at all times.

·         Enter the games as ladies/gentlemen and leave the same way. Actions speak louder than words.

·         Be a team player.

·         Keep our Christian attitude. No profanity or unsportsmanlike actions.

·         Encourage each other, don't criticize.

·          Do your share to keep team spirit up, whether on the bench or on the playing area.

·         Shake hands with our opponents after the game - win or lose.

·         If you have the opportunity, thank the officials after the game.

Absences

Athletes must be committed to the team and be at all practices and games. If an athlete is absent for two or more consecutive practices for any reason, they may not start. In order to play, students must be in attendance at school on game days. Three unexcused absences will result in termination from the team.

Athletic Physicals

A certified physical examination is required at the beginning of each year before any student may practice in volleyball, soccer, basketball, tennis, softball, track, or cheerleading. A physical examination must be current (within 1 year) and not to be expired before the end of the season that the athlete is playing. Students and parents are also required to sign a medical waiver every year. This is an official document and must be notarized. Proper forms are available 0n pages 39-41 or from the school office.

Bus Use

The bus is for players only. A player that travels in the bus to a game must personally inform the driver and coach if they will not be returning in the bus.

Eligibility

Eligibility for sports and cheerleading includes good academic standing. To be eligible to sign up to participate in athletic events, students must have attained a C average or better in all subjects. Eligibility for the fall sports will be based on grade point average at the end of the third week of school.

Proper behavior will also be considered for eligibility and will be determined by the principal. If a player receives a total of three or more discipline referrals from teachers or coaches, team membership may be terminated.

Commitment

Participation in a team sport is a season long commitment and must be followed through to completion.

Uniforms

Athletes are responsible for uniforms issued to them. Uniforms should be worn only at games or by special permission of the principal. Athletes must wear appropriate attire and shoes to practice.

At the end of each season, uniforms are to be laundered and returned promptly to the PE teacher. Report cards will be held until uniforms are returned.

After School Care

            Athletes must attend study hall or an extra curricular activity until practice begins. If students are not picked up immediately after a practice or game, they must go to after school care.

Coaches

            Every effort will be made to maintain two coaches per team: A head coach and an assistant coach. The head coach will:

·         determine the final roster of the team (try-outs will be based on athletic ability, conduct, attitude and desire).

·         determine the starting line-up and substitutions as needed.

Parent Involvement

            Conduct for all athletes and parents must be above reproach. Therefore, parents are asked to support the athletic policy.

(1)If and when problems occur, please discuss the matter directly with that particular           Coach.

(2)If you receive no satisfaction, you may then go to the Athletic Director.

(3)If you still receive no satisfaction, you may then go to the Principal.