GREENWICH HIGH SCHOOL
ATHLETIC HANDBOOK
Director of Athletics: Gus Lindine
gus_lindine@greenwich.k12.ct.us
Interscholastic athletics are a vital part of school life and Greenwich High School offers a variety of opportunities. Our athletic program is one that reflects the needs and purposes of our students and community. We believe that participation in athletics provides many experiences in the development of young people. Our athletic program strives to provide our student-athletes with an educational, worthwhile, and memorable experience while enjoying the fun, teamwork and friendships that come from playing high school sports.
• We will maintain a program based on values of family and team camaraderie.
• We believe in honesty, care for others, confidence and strength of character.
• We embrace a commitment to loyalty, unselfishness, trust, and humility.
Greenwich High School is a member of the Connecticut Interscholastic Athletic Conference (CIAC).The CIAC controls the boys and girls athletics in the state of Connecticut. The CIAC regulates and determines eligibility, supervises tournament play and sets game limitation and practice dates. The CIAC is the only association which governs interscholastic athletic programs for secondary schools in the state of Connecticut. Greenwich High School belongs to the Fairfield County Interscholastic Athletic Conference (FCIAC). The FCIAC was established in 1961 and consists of 19 schools throughout Fairfield County. The FCIAC is comprised of the following high schools: Bassick Lions, Brien McMahon Senators, Bridgeport Central Hilltoppers, Danbury Hatters, Darien Blue Wave, Fairfield Ludlowe Falcons, Fairfield Warde Mustangs, Greenwich Cardinals, New Canaan Rams, Norwalk Bears, Ridgefield Tigers, St. Joseph Cadets, Stamford Knights, Staples Wreckers, Trinity Catholic Crusaders, Trumbull Eagles, Warren Harding Presidents, Westhill Vikings, Wilton Warriors.
REQUIREMENTS FOR PARTICIPATION
In order to participate:
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A student-athlete must file a Greenwich High School Athletic Physical Form with the health office. An athletic physical is good for 13 months.
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A student-athlete must submit a Greenwich High School Yellow Athletic Card to their coach before they participate.
Please review the yellow athletic card and complete the following:
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All emergency information and parental permission must be provided and signed by a parent/guardian.
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The student-athlete and their parent/guardian must read and sign the Greenwich High School Athletic Code of Conduct.
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The Greenwich High School Health Office must stamp and sign the yellow card to certify a current athletic physical examination is on file.
In order to be eligible:
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A student-athlete must pass at least four core courses at the end of the regular marking period and have earned a minimum of four (4) credits towards graduation to be eligible for the fall athletic season.
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A student-athlete may compete in interscholastic athletics up to their twentieth birthday. If their twentieth birthday falls during a season they may not start that season (start of season is defined as the date of the first scheduled game in that sport for that season).
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A student-athlete who transfers to Greenwich High School must have a legal change of address and legal residence in Greenwich.
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A student-athlete will have eight consecutive semesters, or four consecutive years to compete in high school interscholastic athletics.
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A student-athlete must not play under an assumed name on an outside team.
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A student-athlete must not play or practice with an outside team in the same sport while a member of the school team after the first scheduled game in any season. Exceptions shall be: participation in parent-child tournaments individual rules with swimming, tennis and gymnastics (These rules are provided by the CIAC)
GREENWICH HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC CODE OF CONDUCT
Our athletes have a responsibility to provide a positive image in the classroom, on the playing fields, and in our community. They must be reminded that participation in athletics is a privilege and not a right. All athletes are expected to meet this athletic code and failure to comply during their season could result in suspension or removal from a team. All athletes and parents must sign our code of conduct prior to participation.
While at school: A good athlete is also a good student and one who obeys all school rules and regulations. This means good attendance, participation, effort and behavior. An athlete must be in school and attend all scheduled classes (including physical education) in order to participate in any practices or contests. If an athlete is suspended from school, she/he may not participate in practices or games during her/his suspension period.
On the playing fields or courts: Fair play and good sportsmanship is expected at all times. No athlete will use profanity. An athlete will respect teammates, opponents, officials and spectators. In our community: The way an athlete acts in our community is very important. As an athlete, she/he shall respect the rights of others and represent our team, our school and the Town of Greenwich with dignity.
The use of illegal substances: Any use, possession or involvement with illegal substances (drugs/alcohol) of an athlete is prohibited. This is a twenty-four hour rule, extends beyond the school day, and includes the following circumstances:
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Being in a motor vehicle with alcohol or drugs regardless of whether the athlete is the passenger or driver, or whether the athlete is in personal possession of any alcohol or drugs.
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Permitting the illegal consumption of alcohol or use of drugs in the athlete’s home or on an athlete’s premises.
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Postings on blogs and social-networking web sites that confirm a violation.
Failure to comply with this code will result in the following consequences:
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First offense - A two week suspension from all practices and games (minimum of two games). The athlete will be required to meet with her/his school social worker prior to rejoining the team. Upon completion of the suspension, the athlete may apply for reinstatement through a conference with the Athletic Director, Coach and Parent.
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Subsequent offense - A subsequent offense during the school year, will result in the removal of the athlete from their team for the remainder of their current season. The athlete will be ineligible for any post-season awards, recognition or participation at team events, and excluded from the opportunity of becoming a varsity captain.
The use of androgenic / anabolic steroids or other performance enhancing substances:
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Any athlete who has been determined to have used, in or out-of-season, androgenic / anabolic steroids or other performance enhancing substances shall be declared ineligible for all CIAC- controlled activities for one hundred eighty (180) school days on each occurrence. This one hundred eighty (180) school day period of ineligibility commences on the day the CIAC Board of Control makes such determination.
The use of tobacco products:
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An athlete shall not use or have in possession any tobacco products. This is a twenty-four hour rule and extends beyond the school day. Failure to comply with this code will result in a one-week suspension from all practices and games (minimum of one game).The athlete will be required to enroll in our high school smoking cessation course. Upon the conclusion of the suspension, the athlete will be reinstated with the understanding that the smoking cessation course must be completed.
The Greenwich High School Athletic Department does not wish to penalize an athlete attempting to act correctly in situations not of their own making or that could not be avoided. The Director of Athletics and Coach will assess each alleged violation and provide enforcement of this code when and where appropriate. A violation of the Athletic Code of Conduct or Cardinal Rules during team tryouts could negatively impact an athlete’s selection to that team.
COMMUNICATION
The Greenwich High School Athletic Department is continually attempting to improve communication with our athletes, parents and coaches. We strongly believe in being accessible to athletes and parents and being supportive of our coaching staff.
It is reasonable to expect a coach to provide the following information to athletes and parents:
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Tryout process (if applicable)
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Expectations of athletes, parents and coaches team rules and regulations
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Athletic code of conduct
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Board of Education policies
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CIAC rules on participation and eligibility practice and game schedules
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Athletic award criteria
A student-athlete should always be encouraged to communicate with a coach. If a parent has the need to connect with a coach will be prepared to discuss any concerns candidly and professionally. The correct procedure for a parent to contact with a coach is to leave their name and phone number at the Greenwich High School Athletic Office.
Typical issues that are appropriate for parents to discuss with coaches are:
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A dramatic change in their child’s behavior
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Specific health concerns of their child
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A disciplinary action that results in their child being denied participation in a practice or contest
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How they can assist in their child’s skill improvement and development
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To offer a contribution to help support their program
It is inappropiate for parents to discuss these concerns with coaches:
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Their child’s playing time team strategy or play calling their child’s teammates
It is not appropriate for a parent to discuss the concerns with a coach before, during or immediately after an athletic contest. A coach should never be contacted by a parent at her/his home. If an athlete or parent initially approaches the athletic director or headmaster with a concern they will immediately be referred back to the coach.
SOLVING CONFLICTS
When a conflict occurs between an athlete and a coach, the athlete and coach should first attempt to solve the conflict that exists between them. Only if the conflict cannot be resolved between the athlete and coach should the athlete make an appointment to meet the Athletic Director. If the problem is still unresolved, then the parent should contact the coach. If the problem cannot be resolved with the coach and parent, the parent should then contact the Athletic Director. Only if the problem cannot be resolved with the Athletic Director should the Headmaster be contacted.
These are the steps to follow until a resolution is reached:
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Athlete >
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Athlete >
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Athlete / Parent >
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Athlete / Parent / Coach >
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Athletic Director >
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Athlete / Parent / Coach / Athletic Director >
Coach
Athletic Director Coach
Athletic Director Headmaster Headmaster
If an athlete or parent initially approaches the athletic director or headmaster with a concern they will immediately be referred back to the coach.
EXPECTATIONS
We feel strongly that coaches and parents together can make a positive impact on our student-athletes. By working together, we can provide the necessary guidance, leadership, concern and encouragement which are so vital in the development of our children. Communication among coaches, student-athletes, parents and athletic director will offer all student-athletes an opportunity to succeed.
Parents should be positive and let their children know that something good is being accomplished simply by being part of a team. Any added pressures will only make it more difficult to improve self-image. We hope parents will encourage their children to work hard and to do their best. They should not criticize coaches or offer excuses if their children are not playing. As spectators, parents are entitled to cheer at sporting events, but should never become belligerent and arrogant towards players, coaches, opponents or officials.
Parents should assist their children in following the Greenwich High School Athletic Code of Conduct which includes the Athletic Substance Abuse Policy. Student-athletes must adhere to this athletic code and encourage teammates to do so. All coaches will monitor and maintain the Athletic Code of Conduct and should model appropriate behavior and language for student-athletes.
Student-athletes must possess a tremendous work ethic and never give up. They should take great pride in school accomplishments and team achievements should always take precedence over personal successes. Fair play and good sportsmanship is expected from our athletes at all times. They should pursue academic excellence through good attendance, participation, effort, and behavior.
Coaches will establish high expectations and declare well-defined goals and should instill an enthusiastic commitment to excellence. They shall provide leadership that includes discipline, respect, and praise. They must create a safe, secure, and well-supervised environment for all student-athletes. Student- athletes academic eligibility shall be monitored, and coaches should encourage them to work hard, and to do their best in the classroom.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Locker Rooms and Playing Areas:
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All athletes must be made responsible for the condition of their locker room.
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The locker room must be kept neat and clean.
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Glass bottles are prohibited.
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All equipment must be kept in the athlete’s assigned lockers.
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All student-athletes must secure their lockers with a lock.
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Visitors must not be brought into the locker room without permission from the coach.
Uniforms and Equipment:
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All uniforms and equipment are the responsibility of the athlete during the season and are on a loan basis to be worn only when authorized by the coach.
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The athlete must take good care of equipment and follow washing instructions on uniforms. If lost or stolen, the athlete will be responsible for the replacement cost.
Strength and Fitness Center:
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The fitness center is to be used by an athlete only under the supervision of fitness room personnel, athletic trainer or coach.
Athletic Training Room Policy:
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The training room is to be used by an athlete only under the supervision of the athletic trainer or coach.
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A certified athletic trainer is on the athletic staff at GHS.
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The trainer’s hours are posted for each season.
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The role of the athletic trainer is to evaluate injuries, provide first aid treatment and to oversee the rehabilitation of injuries. The athletic trainer or a physician has the authority to remove any athlete from participation until he or she is deemed fit to return to activity.
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Any athlete who has been held out of an activity by a physician will require a written note from a physician before returning to play.
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If a significant injury occurs, the student-athlete, coach and trainer must complete an accident report in the athletic office.
Accident Insurance:
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The Town of Greenwich provides accident insurance for sports participants. This policy provides excess coverage and commences only after other insurance has been used. Athletes should be encouraged to obtain regular student accident insurance available in the GHS main office.
GENERAL INFORMATION
Practice Rules:
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As a member of a team an athlete should be required to attend all meetings, practices and games. Practice rules need to be explained and enforced. Remember, a player should practice to play. When a player cannot make practice or must be late, that player should notify the coach prior to the start of practice.
Transportation:
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The athletic office will provide transportation to all away contests. All athletes must use transportation provided by the school. Any parent requesting a departure from this requirement must sign a release, which will allow an athlete to be transported by that player’s parent only. The ALTERNATE TRANSPORTATION REQUEST FORM will accompany all bus trips and must be completed prior to transporting the athlete. Any other travel arrangement must be approved in writing by the Greenwich High School Main Office. Athletes should make sure all equipment, clothing and trash is removed from a bus when it returns home to school. All athletes are expected to act and speak appropriately at all times.
Early Dismissals:
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The athletic office will dismiss a varsity team early if an afternoon scheduled varsity event is played at a school where transportation is extensive, or if a varsity team is involved in a post season competition. The only other instance for an early dismissal will be when an earlier starting time is set due to a religious holy day. Please be reminded that only in an extreme circumstance will a sub- varsity team be permitted to be dismissed early from school, such as when a junior varsity team is traveling with the varsity or if a sub-varsity football starting time is impacted by daylight savings time.
T-Shirt Slogans:
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Many teams in the past have purchased t-shirts with various slogans. This is usually an opportunity to promote great team spirit. On occasion, our student- athletes have created a shirt that although they assume is completely harmless, has the potential to offend. Please remember to have any T–shirt reviewed by a coach before ordering. If you are unsure of the appropriateness of the message, please see the director of athletics.
TEAM CAPTAIN
Both in and out of season, team captains are expected to be appropriate role models for all team members. They are required to demonstrate positive leadership qualities and the ideals of sportsmanship and to use good judgment in their decision making. Captains should keep in mind the following leadership qualities and responsibilities:
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Provide leadership, motivation and inspiration
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Demonstrate respect for self, coach, teammates, opponents, officials and spectators by exhibiting good character and conducting themselves as a positive role model at all times
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Accept the responsibility and privilege in representing our school and community by setting an example of teamwork, sportsmanship and discipline
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Provide ongoing communication between teammates and coaches Respect and defend the decisions of coaching staff
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Provide leadership, motivation and inspiration
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Obey and defend the Greenwich High School Athletic Code of Conduct
A captain who, in or out of season, commits a violation of the policies of the Athletic Code of Conduct will risk his/her position as a team captain. A captain who, in season, violates the illegal substance use provision of the Athletic Code of Conduct will automatically lose the position of team captain.
Please remember before selecting or voting on varsity team captains, prospective candidates need to pick up a Captain's Application from the athletic office. It must be completed and handed in to the coach prior to any captain selection process. If an athlete decides not to hand in an application, that athlete will not be considered for a captain's position. This application must signed by both the athlete and parent.
COLLEGE BOUND STUDENT-ATHLETES
If student-athletes plan to compete on the collegiate level, they should make their guidance counselors aware of their intentions. They should discuss with their counselors the colleges that would be academically and socially appropriate. Their guidance counselors will make sure that they are meeting core requirements and will be reminded that academic performance is key. Towards the end of their junior year student-athletes can also find out if they are on track to meet academic eligibility on the NCAA Clearinghouse web site (www.ncaaclearinghouse.net).
Once student-athletes decide that they would like to play college athletics, it is suggested that the players should speak with their coaches as soon as possible. Together, they will decide which level of collegiate competition would be best for them. The student-athletes will be assisted by their coaches throughout their recruiting process. The NCAA Guide for the College Bound Athlete provided by the FCIAC,and www.ncaastudent.org are beneficial resources for student- athletes and parents.
Coaches will certainly be there to offer support for whatever plans student- athletes may have upon graduation. Whether it be a written recommendation, or any other assistance needed, their coaches should be there to encourage the student-athletes in their future intentions.