1 Westfield High School Athletic Handbook for Student-Athletes & Parents 1. All Athletes and Parents need to READ pages 1-16 2. Feel free to print and refer to the athletic handbook when needed 3. PRINT pages 17-23 4. Take physical form (pages 17-20) to Doctor to be completed 5. SIGN all applicable lines on all 4 pages of the Physical Form 6. Return completed Physical Form, pages 17-20, to WHS Athletic Office 7. Sign and Return page 21 – Concussion and Sudden Cardiac Arrest Acknowledgement and Signature Form – to WHS Athletic Office 8. Sign and Return page 22 – Riverview Health HIPAA Authorization Form– to WHS Athletic Office 9. Sign and Return page 23 – Riverview Health Athletic Trainer Emergency Form – to WHS Athletic Office 10. ALL forms must be turned in at the SAME TIME 11. After turning in ALL forms, the student-athlete will be given a “PASS2PLAY” card. The student-athlete will not be able to practice until they give this card to their coach. If the student-athlete plays multiple sports they will have to get a “PASS2PLAY” card for each sports season they play from the Athletic Office. Westfield High School, 18250 N. Union Street, Westfield, IN 46074 Phone: 317-896-6875 Fax: 317-867-2921 Bill Davis, Athletic Director Chris Rogers, Athletic Secretary Andy Tebbe, Assistant Athletic Director [email protected][email protected][email protected]
Transcript
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Westfield High School Athletic Handbook for
Student-Athletes & Parents
1. All Athletes and Parents need to READ pages 1-16
2. Feel free to print and refer to the athletic handbook when needed
3. PRINT pages 17-23
4. Take physical form (pages 17-20) to Doctor to be completed
5. SIGN all applicable lines on all 4 pages of the Physical Form
ATHLETIC STATEMENT This athletic handbook is designed to inform athletes and their parents or guardians of the rules, regulations and information that helped
develop the rich tradition of competition at Westfield High School.
Participation in high school athletics is a privilege which carries with it varying degrees of honor, responsibility and sacrifice. Since
athletic competition on high school teams is a privilege and not a right, those who choose to participate will be expected to follow the
Code of Conduct established by the administration, and other specific coaches' rules for their sport. Athletes represent their school and
student body. Athletes are to conduct themselves in a manner that is becoming to their family, Westfield High School and the
community.
ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY / MISSION
The Westfield High School Athletic Department and members of the boys and girls athletic teams believe that competitive athletic
programs are a part of the over-all educational program of the school. To be of maximum effectiveness, the athletic program must be
closely coordinated with the general instructional program of the school. The Athletic Department must be sure that the number of
students accommodated and the educational aims of athletics justify inclusion in the over-all educational program. It must also be based
on a spirit of amateur athletics, so participation is regarded as a privileged opportunity. Athletics are available for all students who are
physically able to participate, who qualify under eligibility requirements, and who adhere to the rules set forth by the state and local
officials and coaching staff.
We believe that participation will contribute to the following:
1. Improve the health, fitness, and general welfare of all individuals taking part in the program.
2. Engage a maximum number of students for participation in various programs.
3. Stimulate all participants to achieve creditable academic progress and to make a contribution to the general educational
program of the school.
The goal of the Westfield Athletic Department is to provide the best opportunities for student-athletes to excel in teamwork,
sportsmanship, self-discipline and moral character. The purpose is to provide each participant with experiences that will be positive and
memorable and that help the athlete develop the capacity for commitment to a cause, acceptance of responsibility and loyalty toward
any chosen endeavor.
ATHLETE DEFINED
The Westfield athlete is defined as, and includes, all young men and women who represent a team/sport that is sanctioned by the
IHSAA that engages in interscholastic competition and further includes cheerleaders, student managers, trainers, and statisticians.
ATHLETIC PROGRAM PROFILE
Westfield High School supports twenty (20) sports that offers 41 different teams to over 650 students in grades 9 -12. Student-athletes
are coached by over 70 men and women and participate in over 600 contests per year. Westfield is a charter member of the Hoosier
Crossroads Conference (HCC). Members include Avon, Brownsburg, Fishers, Hamilton Southeastern, Noblesville, Westfield, and
Zionsville.
RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS
Student-athletes must be residents of the Westfield Washington School Corporation or be sanctioned through court mandate or board
action in order to participate in athletics at Westfield. This means that the student must reside within the legally defined attendance
areas of the Westfield Washington School Corporation and must conform with the existing legal settlement statutes as defined in
Indiana Code 20-8. 1-6. 1.
ACADEMIC/ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY AT WESTFIELD
1. Student-athletes must be enrolled at Westfield and pass four full credits (IHSAA standard) for current and previous
grading periods or semesters/trimesters to be academically eligible to play or try out. (Note: Senior Seminar does NOT
count as a course or credit towards academic eligibility.)
2. In addition to the IHSAA requirements, any student-athlete at Westfield High School who receives an F in one (1) class
and passes their other four (4) classes will be subject to the following:
a. The average of four passing grades must equal a 1.7 G.P.A. or higher.
b. If the G.P.A. is not 1.7 or better, the student-athlete is placed on academic probation and can regain eligibility at
the one-fifth (20%) point of their respective season if their grades are 1.7 or better. The one-fifth point of a
ATHLETIC HANDBOOK FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES
ELIGIBILITY
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season will be determined by 20% of the number of games/contests/meets. If the student-athlete fails to meet
eligibility requirements, this process will continue at the 50% point and 75% point.
3. A student with two (2) or more grades of “F” is ineligible for that trimester.
4. Any sport that begins before the first twelve (12) week grading period is completed will use the previous twelve (12)
week grades to determine athletic eligibility.
5. A student will be ineligible until eligibility requirements are met.
6. Student-athletes who become ineligible by IHSAA standards during a given grading period are prohibited from attending
practices or participating in games, contests, or meetings for that activity. This does not prohibit the student from
attending athletic events as a paying spectator.
7. Freshmen are eligible to compete on varsity athletic teams.
It is the policy of the athletic department to work closely with the academic progress of each participant. Students with failing grades
will attend practices and/or study table during periods of academic difficulty. Students not passing four full credits are not permitted to
tryout for a team. He/she may tryout after securing eligibility, with the coach’s permission.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
Every student athlete is required by Westfield and the IHSAA to have a physical examination completed and on file with the athletic
office before practicing in any sport. Physical exams are the responsibility of the athlete and his/her parents. Any physical after April 1
of the current year, is good for the next school year.
WHAT MUST BE DONE BEFORE YOUR FIRST PRACTICE
The following items are to be completed by the athlete and parent/guardian before the first practice with any team:
take and pass physical examination and have supporting student, parent, and doctor signatures
meet academic eligibility requirements
attend team meeting or meet with coach before practice
have athletic transfer filed (transfer students new to Westfield cannot compete in interscholastic contests until an athletic
transfer is complete)
have a head injury and concussion acknowledgement and signature form on file with the athletic office
1. It is better to be safe than ineligible, therefore, be sure that you understand the following rules:
A. Participation in athletics at Westfield High School is a privilege earned by meeting the standards set by your school,
conference, and the IHSAA If you have any questions regarding your eligibility, contact your Athletic Director or
Principal before you endanger your eligibility rather than after it is too late.
2. You are ineligible if:
A. Age
1. You are 20 years of age prior to or on the scheduled date of the IHSAA State Finals
tournament in a sport.
B. Amateurism
1. You play under an assumed name.
2. You accept money or merchandise directly or indirectly from athletic participation.
3. You sign a professional contract in that sport.
C. Awards/Gifts
1. You receive in recognition for your athletic ability any award not approved by your high
school Principal or the IHSAA
2. You use or accept merchandise as an award, prize, gift or loan, or purchase such for a token sum.
3. You accept awards, medals, recognition, gifts and honors from colleges/universities or their alumni.
D. Conduct/Character
1. You conduct yourself in or out of school in a way which reflects discredit on your school or the IHSAA
2. You create a disruptive influence on the discipline, good order, moral, and educational environment in your
school.
E. Enrollment
1. You did not enroll in school during the first 15 days of a semester/trimester.
2. You have been enrolled more than twelve (12) consecutive trimesters beginning with grade 9.
IHSAA ELIGIBILITY RULES FOR STUDENTS IN GRADES
9, 10, 11, AND 12
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F. Illness/Injury
1. You are absent five or more consecutive school days due to illness or injury and do not present your Principal in
written verification from a physician licensed to practice medicine stating that you may resume participation
G. Participation
1. During Contest Season
a. You participate in tryouts of demonstrations of athletic ability in that sport as a prospective post-
secondary student-athlete.
b. You participate as a grade 9, 10, 11, or 12 student in a contest with or against a student enrolled in below
grade 9.
c. You are a junior high school (grade 9) team and you participate with or against a student enrolled in
grade 12.
d. You participate in an organized athletic contest with or against players not belonging to your school.
e. You participate as an individual on a team other than your school team.
f. You participate as an individual without following the criteria of the outstanding student athlete.
g. You attend a non-school camp.
h. You attend and participate in a student clinic.
2. During School Year Out-of-Season
a. You participate in a team sport contest, where admission is charged, as a member of a non-school team
where there are more than the following number of students listed below in each sport who have
participated the previous year in a contest as a member of their school team in that sport.
a. The IHSAA Board of Directors passed a by-law permitting open summer participation for all sports.
This change took effect in the summer of 2002.
b. You attend a non-school camp and/or clinic after Monday of Week 3 in football and Monday of
Week 5 for all other sports. (See the Athletic Director for specific dates.)
H. Practice
1. You have not completed ten (10) separate days of organized practice in a sport under the direct supervision of the
high school coaching preceding participation in a contest.
I. Scholarship
1. You did not meet Westfield’s academic eligibility requirements as set forth on page 1 of this handbook.
J. Consent and Release Certificate
1. You do not have the completed IHSAA physical and release certificate on file with your Principal each school
year, between April 1 and your first practice.
K. Transfer
1. You transfer from one school to another primarily for athletic reasons.
2. You were not enrolled in your present high school your last semester or at junior high school from which your
high school receives its students unless:
a. You are entering the 9th
grade for the first time.
b. You are transferring from a school district or territory with a bona fide move by your parents.
c. You are a ward of the court.
d. You are an orphan.
e. You transfer to reside with a parent.
f. Your former school closed.
g. Your former school is not accredited by the state accrediting agency in the state where the school is
located.
h. Your transfer was pursuant to school board mandate.
i. You enrolled and/or attended, in error, a wrong school.
j. You transferred from a correctional school.
k. You are emancipated.
l. You are a foreign exchange student attending under an approved NASSP program.
m. You did not participate in any contests as a representative of another school during the preceding 365
days.
n. You return to an IHSAA member school from a non-member school and reside with the same parent(s)
or guardian(s).
L. Undue Influence
1. You have been influenced by any person to retain or secure you as a student or one or both parents or guardians
as residents.
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STATEMENT
The following Westfield athletic rules are in accordance with the Indiana High School Athletic Association Constitution.
The conduct of participants in athletics at Westfield, in or out of school, year-round, shall be such as: 1 ) not to reflect discredit upon
our school, and 2) not to create a disruptive influence on the discipline, good order, moral or educational environment in our school.
Any such misconduct violating these principles shall be subject to disciplinary measures including forfeiting all or part of a student’s
eligibility.
ENFORCEMENT OF THE CODE OF CONDUCT The Principal shall enforce all rules and regulations as described in the Code of Conduct (hereinafter the Code) for athletes. All rules
regarding behavior and/or training as outlined in IHSAA regulations apply. The Code will be reinforced by the coach of each sport
during the year. Parents/guardians and athletes are required to sign the acknowledgment, consent, injury awareness and disclosure
document stating that they understand the Code and the athlete is subject to disciplinary measure should he/she violate the Code. Any
alleged violation of the Code shall be reported first to the Principal or his/her designee and then is to be followed by an investigation by
any or all of the following people: coach, sponsor, Athletic Director, Principal or his/her designee.
EXPECTED STANDARDS OF CONDUCT FOR ATHLETES
The good of the team is first and foremost.
No player(s) will ever employ illegal tactics to gain an undeserved advantage. All players will devote themselves to being a true
sports-person.
Profane language will not be tolerated.
Attendance at social events (parties, dances, etc.) is up to the athlete and parents. However, athletes are expected to leave social
events immediately where there is illegal use of chemical substances, alcohol or tobacco.
All athletes will care for all equipment as though it were their own personal property. If equipment is destroyed through practice it
will be replaced by the school. If equipment is lost or stolen, the athlete(s) will fulfill their responsibility by paying for replacement
of item(s).
All athletes will obey the specific training and practice rules of their team as given to them by the coaching staff .
Athletes should not engage in doing negative things. Drinking alcohol, taking controlled drug substances, using tobacco
products, using profanity and being disobedient are harmful to athletes and their team. Maximum effort and performance cannot be
attained when participating in these activities.
Athletes and team members should plan their time so that they devote energy to their studies to insure passing grades which
represent their true abilities.
Athletes should be a positive influence in all they attempt to do. They are to work for the betterment of Westfield and set a good
example by doing what is right and good.
Officials deserve courteous respect. Everyone must realize that officials do not lose a game or contest. They are there for the
purpose of insuring both teams a fair contest.
All athletes are to ride to and from the game or contest site on school-approved transportation. Any exception to this rule must first
be cleared with the coach in charge and only then if the parent or parents of the athlete communicate with the coach in person.
This communication should be in written form.
At athletic contests in the absence of the Principal or an Athletic Director, the coach is the acting authority for the school system.
Athletes should appreciate that coaches, teachers and school officials have the best interests of all athletes in mind as they equip,
schedule and conduct the athletic program.
All Westfield athletes must comply with the standards of our athletic code of conduct and school rules or be subject to disciplinary
action or dismissal from a team as determined by the rules, coaching staff, Athletic Director, and/or Principal of Westfield High
School.
RANDOM DRUG TESING POLICY All athletes fall under the random drug testing policy. By participating in athletics at WHS you are agreeing to be part of the random
drug testing pool. For a complete copy of the random drug testing policy, go to the Westfield Athletic website or stop by the Athletic
Office.
Important We are asking our athletes to live clean, think clean, and do those things that make them keener, finer, and more competent
individuals and team members.
CODE OF CONDUCT
The code is in force twelve (12) months a year, grades nine through twelve (9-12).
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BULLYING AND HAZING Westfield High School will not condone hazing or bullying. A student-athlete may not engage in bullying or hazing at any time with or
to another student-athlete or student at WHS. This includes on and off school grounds, and traveling to or from an event.
The State of Indiana defines bullying as “overt, repeated acts or gestures, including verbal or written communications transmitted;
physical act committed by student or group of students against another student with the intent to harass, ridicule, humiliate, intimidate,
or harm the other student.
Hazing shall be defined as performing any act or coercing another, including the victim, to perform any act of initiation into any class,
group, or organization that causes or creates a risk of causing mental, emotional, or physical harm. Permission, consent, or assumption
of risk by an individual subjected to hazing shall not lessen the prohibitions.
Westfield Washington Schools will treat bullying and hazing as it does intimidation and harassment. Students guilty of bullying or
hazing will face the entire gamut of disciplinary actions available to the school including suspension and expulsion.
A student-athlete or parent should report any concerns directly to the coach, athletic director, or principal.
CELL PHONES AND CAMERAS: Cell phones and cameras may not be used inside a locker room for any purpose by a student-athlete. This means no texting, no calling
and obviously no pictures. The use of cell phones, regardless if it has a built-in camera or not, is not permitted in the locker room at any
time. NO EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULE. This rule applies to all players, managers and coaches (coaches may use a cell phone in
their office, not the locker room).
A violation of this rule will result in immediate penalty, which could include dismissal from the team. If a photograph is taken, the
matter may be turned over to legal authorities for possible prosecution.
Should an athlete receive a call or text while (s)he is in the locker room, (s)he should take the phone (still in backpack, book bag, gym
bag, etc.) out to the hall or outside the building before use. CAMERAS AND PHONES MAY NOT BE IN USE OR OUT IN VIEW IN
THE LOCKER ROOM FOR ANY REASON.
A student-athlete or parent should report any concerns directly to the coach, athletic director, or principal.
SOCIAL NETWORKING SITES: Student-athletes are responsible for information contained in written or electronic transmissions (e.g. e-mail) and any information posted
on a public domain (e.g. internet, chat room, blogs, Facebook, You Tube, My Space). Inappropriate or embarrassing information or
pictures should not be posted in any public domain. Student-athletes are not precluded from participation in such online social
networks; however, student-athletes should be reminded that they serve as representatives of their team, the athletic program and the
Westfield Washington Schools.
Texting, tweeting and uses of other social networks to disparage or criticize the team, other students, opponents, coaches or other school
personnel is inappropriate behavior and unbecoming of a Westfield student-athlete. Any individual identified on a social networking
site which depicts illegal or inappropriate behavior, due to the athletic handbook or other policy, will be considered in violation and
subject to athletic discipline or suspension per policy guidelines.
A student-athlete or parent should report any concerns directly to the coach, athletic director, or principal.
ATHLETIC COUNCIL
The athletic council is composed of the Principal, Athletic Director(s) and a representative of head coaches. The athletic council is in
existence to hear appeals of athletes from decisions of exclusions by the coach and athletic department. Recommendations, different
from the already stated consequence, may or may not be made. Following the hearing, the parent(s) or guardian will be notified within
five (5) days by the Principal or his/her designee of the decision of the council. The council's decision may accept, reduce or revoke the
exclusion decision for violations, but may not invoke a more severe penalty.
APPEALS / HEARING
An athlete and his or her parent(s) or guardian has the right to a hearing on an exclusion by so notifying the Principal in writing within
five (5) school days after the exclusion decision. The right of appeal is forfeited if this is not requested within this five day limit.
The purpose of the appeal hearing is to inquire into the athlete’s alleged violation and to allow the athlete and parent(s) or guardian to
present evidence on the student's behalf. The appeal is to determine whether or not the accused student has forfeited his/her privilege to
participate in athletics. This process has no legal implications or requirements.
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The following rules are specific examples of conduct that would violate the Code of Conduct set forth above. Conduct that is not
covered by these specific examples, but that violates the principles of the Code of Conduct, is subject to disciplinary measures.
Type “A” Offense. Arrested and charged with a Felony.
Consequences for a Type “A” Offense:
The athlete will be ineligible from all athletics until a hearing with the Athletic Council is held to determine the athlete’s
eligibility. It is the responsibility of the athlete to request an Athletic Council hearing.
Type “B” Offense. Athletes (hereinafter student staff, student athletic trainers, and cheerleaders are included in the term 'athletes')
shall not knowingly possess, use, transmit or be under the influence of any narcotic drug, hallucinogenic drug, stimulant, depressant,
anabolic steroids, marijuana, spice, counterfeit caffeine pills or possess, use or transmit paraphernalia for use of such substances; partake
in any degree or be in possession of alcoholic beverages; knowingly possess or use tobacco products (smoking, chewing, skoal, etc.); or
be in possession of a weapon; commit misdemeanors, or acts of delinquency. (Use of an authorized drug as prescribed by a registered
physician shall not constitute a violation of this rule).
Consequences for a Type “B” Offense:
For 1st Offense: Suspension from athletics for the equivalent of 20% of the contests for a season they are in or for the first
season they satisfactorily complete. After a suspension has been served, eligibility will be reinstated.
For 2nd
Offense: Suspension from athletics for the equivalent of 30% of the contests for a season they are in or for the first
season they satisfactorily complete. After a suspension has been served, eligibility will be reinstated. In
addition, the athlete and his/her parents/guardians must meet with his/her head coach(s) and the athletic
department to develop a plan of action to help prevent future infractions.
For 3rd
Offense: The athlete will be ineligible from all athletics until a hearing with the Athletic Council is held to determine
the athlete’s eligibility. It is the responsibility of the athlete to request an Athletic Council hearing.
**Note that if a suspension is being served at the start of a season, and that sport has a scheduled scrimmage (per IHSAA rules),
the coach will determine if the suspended student-athlete is allowed to participate or not.
.
Type “C” Offense. Any athlete who is involved with any type of theft outside of school; or is in violation of school rules such as
fighting, truancy, suspension, thefts, classroom disruption or other punishable acts will be disciplined by the already-established school
rules. The athlete may further be disciplined by the athletic department or by their coach. If an athlete is suspended out-of-school for
any reason, they will be ineligible for all contests during the term of his/her school suspension. Out-of-school suspension athletes also
cannot practice during the suspension time.
Consequences for a Type “C” Offense:
For 1st and
2nd
Offense: If an athlete is suspended from school for disciplinary reasons, he or she may not participate in games or
practices until said suspension has been served. If the infraction or suspension does not impact a scheduled
athletic practice or event, the athletic department or coach may suspend the athlete for up to 11% of the
season.
For 3rd
Offense: See “Type B Offense – 1st Offense”
For 4th
Offense: See “Type B Offense – 2nd
Offense”
For 5th
Offense: See “Type B Offense – 3rd
Offense”
Type “D” Offense. Athletes shall not have unauthorized possession of Westfield athletic property.
Consequences for a Type “D” Offense:
The athlete will be ineligible from all athletics until such property is returned or restitution is made.
Type “E” Offense. Each head coach may furnish their athletes with specific rules and/or regulations which apply to that sport. These
rules may go beyond those listed in this handbook, but cannot be of a lesser degree. The athletic department must approve these
individual rules, and with approval, those penalties will be supported. Type “A”, “B”, and “C” offenses are as stated cannot be changed
by the coach. Specific rules of the coach cannot exceed 20% of the season for punishment. However, if the situation is not corrected,
the athlete may be dismissed from the team with the approval of the Athletic Director.
REPORTING THE OFFENSE Any coach and/or teacher, if viewing a reportable offense, should go to the player’s coach to tell of the infraction. All coaches are
REQUIRED to report their athletes.
OFFENSES of the CODE of CONDUCT
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ATHLETIC SEASON DEFINED
The athletic season is defined as commencing with the first practice and ending with the final event for that sport. Penalties for
violations take effect immediately upon verification of any violation and will include games in succession, i.e. season schedule,
tournaments and state series, in order of competition.
FORFEITURE OF AWARDS
If a violation of the Code warrants, the penalized athlete will be ineligible to receive an athletic award or post season awards initiated by
the school for that season. For any athlete penalized for a carry over penalty, he/she will lose these awards only for the first sport
penalized.
CARRY-OVER SUSPENSION If the violation of the Code occurs in the last part of a sport and the violator cannot fulfill the terms of his/her violation in that sport the
suspension does carry-over until the suspension is fulfilled. This includes their next sport or the same sport next year. i.e. If the
suspension is for two football games with only one remaining, the athlete must also miss his first basketball game or wrestling match or
baseball game until the suspension has been served. If a typically one-sport athlete elects to participate in a new sport in order to serve a
suspension, he/she will be required to complete this season in good standing.
COMPLETING A SUSPENSION When serving a suspension, the athlete is expected to be present at all athletic contests and practices involving his/her team or squad.
The athlete is a member of the team and is expected to fulfill this responsibility. If the athlete does not attend the contest, credit will not
be given toward fulfilling the requirements of the suspension. The coach's discretion can excuse the athlete.
AWARDS INFORMATION FOR ATHLETES Awards are an integral part of most activities. They exist to reward, indicate belonging and show commitment to a cause. Awards are
important and Westfield athletes are recognized with a wide variety of earned awards. It is always very important to keep awards in
perspective. Too many or inappropriate awards indicate a disregard for the true meaning of sport, while too few can indicate a feeling
of non-importance. In reality, awards cannot truly show what has been gained from competing in athletics: the development of
loyalties, commitment to a cause, learning about one's limits and representing one's school, community, family and self.
All sports are considered major sports at Westfield High School. Athletes, student staff, student trainers and cheerleaders are eligible to
earn awards. Each sport gives the same type of awards and all awards are purchased by the school. Letter jackets are purchased by the
athletes. No athlete may receive an award in a sport for which he/she is academically ineligible at the completion of the season, under
suspension for an athletic violation or otherwise not in good standing. Candidates must complete the season's play in order to receive an
award, however, injuries may waive this stipulation. No awards will be issued until equipment is turned in to the coach.
The following information indicates the general guidelines and normal progression for awards. Athletes will receive the appropriate
awards for each year as listed and explained below. Freshmen and Sophomores are eligible for varsity competition and can earn their
varsity award at any time. New athletes to Westfield (move-ins) cannot exchange awards from their previous school. Athletes cannot
buy, substitute or make up for awards not previously won. Participation points may be transferred by providing written proof from
former school.
DESCRIPTION OF AWARDS
Numerals: Freshman Award
Numerals are the first award for any freshman athlete not earning a varsity letter. The second and third freshman awards are
Certificates. If an athlete earns a varsity award as a freshman he/she will also receive numerals.
Certificate: Certificates are awarded to athletes who have not earned a Varsity award and already have their numerals.
Letter:
First Varsity award
Sport Medal:
Second Varsity award
Sport Plaque:
Third and Fourth Varsity awards
AWARDS
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Paperweight:
Awarded for the first letter in athlete’s third sport
Sports Recognition Plaque:
Awarded by the coach for special categories
Letter Jacket:
The jacket can be purchased by any athlete who has earned his/her first Varsity award and is ordered through the Athletic Department.
Letter Blanket:
Awarded to athletes when they have met one of the following requirements:
1. earn nine (9) Varsity letters
2. participate in twelve (12) athletic seasons.
TEAM REQUIREMENTS FOR A VARSITY AWARD
An athlete must finish the season in good standing and do the following for their respective sport:
Baseball - An athlete must appear in an average of two (2) varsity innings per game.
Basketball - An athlete must participate in one-half of the varsity regular season quarters.
Cheer (Fall) – An athlete must be selected for the varsity cheer team and be in good standing.
Cheer (Winter) – An athlete must be selected for the varsity cheer team and be in good standing.
Cross Country - An athlete must be in the top five (5) of the Westfield runners in at least one-half of the varsity meets or place in the
county, conference, or sectional meet.
Football - An athlete must participate in at least one-half of the varsity quarters.
Golf - An athlete must participate in 50% of the varsity matches or
A. Participate in 40% of the varsity matches and at least on major tournament. (County, Conference, or Sectional)
B. Participate in 30% of the varsity matches and at least two major tournaments.
C. Participate in all of the major tournaments.
Soccer - An athlete must appear in 50% of the varsity season halves.
Softball - An athlete must appear in an average of two (2) varsity innings per game.
Swimming - An athlete must participate in at least 50% of the meets and place in the Conference and Sectional meets.
Tennis – An athlete must participate in one half of the varsity regular season matches.
Track - An athlete must earn a total of fifteen (15) points during the season or place in the County, Conference, or Sectional meet.
Volleyball – An athlete must be part of the varsity team for minimum of 50% of the season.
Wrestling - An athlete must appear in at least six (6) varsity meets.
Head coaches may recommend a varsity award for an athlete who makes a special contribution to the team, but does not meet the
minimum standards.
Accidents / Injuries
All accidents or injuries, home or away, are to be reported to the trainer and/or coach immediately. The coaches should know the health
status of their players at all times. Athletes should keep their coach informed of any treatment outside of school and any recurring
injuries. Be sure that all injuries are given proper attention.
Attendance: (Absence) School and Game Day
Daily attendance to school and practice is very important and expected. Student-athletes must have attended the final two (2) classes the
day of contests to be able to participate in his/her athletic event. Approved field trips or school activities constitute attending school.
Any exemptions (funeral, dental, doctor, college visitation day) must be approved through the athletic office.
Automobiles
Automobiles are to be parked between the lines and in accordance with all regulations of traffic control. Athletes will not be treated in a
special way. Do not talk to coaches about special favors or driving to contests.
Changing a Sport
INFORMATION FOR ATHLETES/PARENTS
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If an athlete is cut from a team, he/she may join another team or program in that sport season. An athlete cannot quit one sport to join
another sport until that sport season is concluded. Ex. The athlete cannot quit football to go out for basketball until football season is
completed. However, athletes will be allowed to transfer from one sport to another during a given season only upon mutual agreement
of both coaches and the Athletic Director.
College-Bound Athletes and Recruiting
College recruiters visit Westfield to talk about and with our athletes. NCAA Eligibility Clearinghouse rules determine who is eligible
for scholarships. Basically, a student-athlete must be a 'C' student in college prep classes as determined by the NCAA, score well on the
Scholastic Aptitude Test or the American College Test and have the recommendation of his/her coaches. These rules are available from
the athletic office, coaches, and the guidance office. There is time set aside for recruiter-athlete visitation. Your coach and guidance
counselor will arrange these meetings. Transcripts will be provided to the university through the guidance office.
Concussion and Head Injury Awareness Information and Consent The last two pages of this handbook contain concussion and head injury awareness information for both the student-athlete and
parent/guardian as prescribed by Indiana Law IC 20-34-7. Indiana law requires student athletes to be removed immediately from
athletic activities if it is suspected they have sustained a head injury. In order to return to play, injured athletes must be evaluated and
cleared by a health care provider trained in head injury assessment. All student-athletes and parents/guardians must sign a consent that
they have received this information. The Concussion and Head Injury acknowledgment and signature form is a separate page in the
physical form that is turned in to the athletic office.
Procedure for Addressing Concerns with Coaches
There are situations that may require a conference between the coach and the parent. These conferences are encouraged. It is important
that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position. When conferences are necessary, the following procedure
should be followed to help promote a resolution to the issue of concern.
1. Call to make an appointment with the coach.
2. If the coach cannot be reached, the Athletic Director will assist you in making the appointment.
3. 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 promote resolution.
4. If a satisfactory resolution is not accomplished, call the Athletic Director to make an appointment to discuss the situation.
5. If a satisfactory resolution is not accomplished after meeting with the Athletic Director, a meeting will be set up with the
Principal.
Conference Affiliation
Westfield belongs to a very competitive and high profile conference. The Hoosier Crossroads Conference (HCC) was formed to
promote athletics, academics, activities and information exchange between our seven schools: Avon, Brownsburg, Fishers, Hamilton
Southeastern, Noblesville, Westfield, and Zionsville. We compete in twenty sports, 10 for boys and 10 for girls.
Conflicts Between Activities
Activities at Westfield share many students. From time to time there may be conflicts between a student-athlete’s sport and another
activity that is grade based. In the event a conflict arises and the student-athlete’s grade is dependent on attending this activity then it
will take precedent over the student-athlete’s sport. Communication between coaches and sponsors of conflicting activities is a must.
Importance of contests and state competitions may affect decisions.
Dress
When going to away activities or contests as representatives of Westfield athletics, the athletes must dress according to team rules as
approved by the Athletic Department.
Equipment All athletes will care for all equipment as though it were their own personal property. If equipment is destroyed through practice, it will
be replaced by the school. If equipment is lost or stolen, the athlete(s) will fulfill their responsibility by paying for replacement of
item(s). Remember that stealing or wearing stolen equipment is a violation of the Code of Conduct and punishable by suspension from
athletics. Equipment may not be worn during the school day, at home, or on the streets without approval of the coach of that sport. All
issued equipment and uniforms remain the property of Westfield and must be returned at the conclusion of the season. Any missing
items will be charged to the student-athlete. Graduation or next year’s registration will be affected until all fees are paid.
Gymnasium Procedures
At no time is it permissible for individuals or groups to work out in the gymnasium without authorized supervision. At no time will
individuals or groups be working out, jogging, or just “messing around” while teams or squads are having an official practice session.
Athletes in the gymnasium for one sport practice will refrain from using equipment not specifically for their sport. All practice times
are to be cleared with the Athletic Director and recorded on the master calendar.
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Insurance
In order to eliminate any confusion relative to athletic injuries, expenses, and insurance, please note the following:
A. Westfield Washington School Corporation expects each athlete to have accident coverage before participating in athletics.
B. Westfield Washington School Corporation will not pay any injury-related expense sustained by athletic participants.
C. All Westfield Washington School Corporation students may enroll in the "School Accident Protection For Your Children"
insurance plan used by the school corporation. School insurance is made available at the beginning of school to all students.
School insurance forms can be picked up in the school office.
D. The IHSAA purchases a Catastrophic Insurance policy that covers all athletes participating in IHSAA sports. (This does not include
cheerleading.) However, this policy is excess insurance and pays up to $1,000,000, (amount may increase) only after the athlete’s
insurance has paid the maximum amount. It should be noted that neither the Westfield Washington Schools, nor the IHSAA carries
any kind of “first dollar” athletic insurance.
Multiple Sport Athletes The Westfield Athletic Department supports the concept of participating in more than one high school sport. In-season sports take
precedence over any other extra-curricular activity. High school coaches should not establish expectations “out of season” which would
prohibit or restrict a student’s participation in another sport which is “in season.”
Participation in Two Sports in One Season
Athletes may participate in more than one sport during one season. Coaches involved with athletes wanting to do this will meet with the
athlete and his/her parent(s) to discuss the possibilities. A schedule resolving all practice and competition conflicts must be established
prior to the season and the student athlete will be asked to designate a “primary” sport if necessary. The athlete must realize that extra
time for practice is necessary to compete in two sports in one season. The athlete must meet the requirements of both sports. If the
requirements of one or both sports are not met, the athlete will be asked to choose which sport he/she will continue in.
Practices: Regular, Vacation & School Closing
All team members are expected to attend all practices. Practice schedules for school vacations are set by the coach and only the coach
can excuse an athlete from practice. Practices during a school closing time (snow, etc.) are occasionally held and attendance at these
practices are considered voluntary.
Publicity By participating in athletics at Westfield High School, the athlete’s name, grade and photo will appear on the team roster and in
programs distributed at sporting events. The athlete’s height may be listed and weight will be listed for boys’ sports only.
All sports are covered by the local news media and results of contest are printed along with athlete’s names and photos.
Quitting a Team
If an athlete tries out and makes a team in a sport that has cuts; or participates in ten (10) practices for a sport that does not cut, he/she
cannot quit that sport and join another sport until the sport season he/she quit is completed. This includes joining off-season workouts
for another sport. Example: An athlete cannot quit cross country to join the football team or the basketball team (including pre-season
conditioning / workouts) until the cross country season is completed. Consent by both coaches and the athletic department can waive
this rule. The athlete should notify the coach immediately, in person, to explain the reason for quitting the team. The athlete should
then turn in all school equipment that has been issued to him/her. The athlete forfeits all awards that would have been earned had they
completed the season.
Scholarships (Athletic)
Students and parents interested in pursuing athletic scholarships should start their searches by asking their individual coaches for
information and advice concerning this matter. The guidance office will have additional information about the school or area of interest.
Students interested in Division I and II colleges and universities must also comply with NCAA eligibility guidelines that are found in
the guidance office.
Study Table
Study tables may be a designated requirement for student-athletes who need a supervised study environment. The appropriate coach
will inform the student-athlete when a study table requirement is necessary. Study table will take place during the bonus period and can
include small study groups, computer labs, tutorial services, or quiet study time.
Suspensions via Due Process
A school due process suspension (in school or out of school) makes a student body member ineligible for competition and practice in
any activity or program for the duration of the due process.
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Team Cutting Policies
Coaches of the twenty varsity sports at Westfield have their own policy on how they will choose their teams. In some sports, cutting a
team down to manageable size is a necessity. Coaches will explain their policy to candidates for their team at the first meeting. An
athlete may be cut from a team anytime during a season. Criteria for selecting team members lies with the coaching staff. Their
decisions are final.
Training Room
The purpose of the training room is to care for and prevent athletic injuries. Student-athletes are not permitted in the training room
without adult supervision. Space is limited, therefore, only athletes needing treatment are allowed in the room. All school first aid
materials are to remain in the training room or in the first aid kits under the direction of the trainer, student trainer, or coach at practices,
games, or contests. Under no circumstances are the athletes to use the whirlpool without proper supervision of the trainer or coach. At
no time should there be any first aid materials in athletes’ lockers. This includes athletic tape.
Weight Room
The weight room is available for use by teams before and after school. There is a full program of weight training offered during the
school year and summer under the guidance of a weight coach. No student shall use the weight room without adult supervision, nor
without having a physical exam on file in the athletic office.
Use of Supplements Westfield High School does not encourage or endorse the use of any type of nutritional supplement. The use of products such as protein
supplements, amino acid supplements, creatine, weight gain and/or loss products, etc. is a decision to be made by the student/athlete and
their parents in consultation with a physician.
Westfield Athletics: Sport Offerings by Season and Start Date
Fall: Cheer May 2015 Spring: Baseball March 14, 2016
Boys Cross Country August 3, 2015 Boys Golf March 14, 2016
Girls Cross Country August 3, 2015 Softball March 7, 2016
Football August 3, 2015 Girls Tennis March 14, 2016
Girls Golf August 3, 2015 Boys Track February 15, 2016
Boys Soccer August 3, 2015 Girls Track February 15, 2016
Girls Soccer August 3, 2015
Boys Tennis August 3, 2015
Volleyball August 3, 2015
Winter: Cheer November 2015
Boys Basketball November 9, 2015
Girls Basketball October 19, 2015
Boys Swimming November 9, 2015
Girls Swimming October 26 , 2015
Wrestling November 2 , 2015
(updated 7-28-15)
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Preparticipation Physical Evaluation
HISTORY FORM (Note: This form is to be filled out by the patient and parent prior to seeing the physician. The physician should keep a copy of this form in the chart.)
17 (1 of 4 physical form)
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Preparticipation Physical Evaluation
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION FORM (The physical examination must be performed on or after April 1 by a Physician holding an unlimited license to
practice medicine to be valid for the following school year – IHSAA By-Law C 3-10)
18 (2 of 4 physical form)
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Preparticipation Physical Evaluation
IHSAA ELIGIBILITY RULES INDIVIDUAL ELIGIBILITY RULES (Grades 9 through 12) ATTENTION ATHLETE: Your school is a member of the IHSAA and follows established rules. To be eligible to represent your school in interschool athletics, you:
1. must be a regular bona fide student in good standing in the school you represent; must have enrolled not later
than the fifteenth day of the current semester.
2. must have completed 10 separate days of organized practice in said sport under the direct supervision of the
high school coaching staff preceding date of participation in interschool contests. (Excluding Girls Golf – See Rule 101)
3. must have received passing grades at the end of their last grading period in school in at least seventy percent (70%) of the
maximum number of full credit subjects (or the equivalent) that a student can take and must be currently enrolled in at
least seventy percent (70%) of the maximum number of full credit subjects (or the equivalent) that a student can take.
Semester grades take precedence.
4. must not have reached your twentieth birthday prior to or on the scheduled date of the IHSAA State Finals in a sport.
5. must have been enrolled in your present high school last semester or at a junior high school from which your high school
receives its students . . .
. . . unless you are entering the ninth grade for the first time.
. . . unless you are transferring from a school district or territory with a corresponding bona fi de move on the part of your
parents.
. . . unless you are a ward of a court; you are an orphan, you reside with a parent, your former school closed, your former
school is not accredited by the state accrediting agency in the state where the school is located, your transfer was
pursuant to school board mandate, you attended in error a wrong school, you transferred from a correctional school,
you are emancipated, you are a foreign exchange student under an approved CSIET program. You must have been
eligible from the school from which you transferred.
6. must not have been enrolled in more than eight consecutive semesters beginning with grade 9.
7. must be an amateur (have not participated under an assumed name, have not accepted money or merchandise directly
or indirectly for athletic participation, have not accepted awards, gifts, or honors from colleges or their alumni, have not
signed a professional contract).
8. must have had a physical examination between April 1 and your fi rst practice and fi led with your principal your completed
Consent and Release Certificate.
9. must not have transferred from one school to another for athletic reasons as a result of undue influence or persuasion by
any person or group.
10. must not have received in recognition of your athletic ability, any award not approved by your principal or the IHSAA.
11. must not accept awards in the form of merchandise, meals, cash, etc.
12. must not participate in an athletic contest during the IHSAA authorized contest season for that sport as an individual or on
any team other than your school team. (See Rule 15-1a) (Exception for outstanding student-athlete – See Rule 15-1b)
13. must not refl ect discredit upon your school nor create a disruptive influence on the discipline, good order, moral or
educational environment in your school.
14. students with remaining eligibility must not participate in tryouts or demonstrations of athletic ability in that sport as a
prospective post-secondary school student-athlete. Graduates should refer to college rules and regulations before
participating.
15. must not participate with a student enrolled below grade 9.
16. must not, while on a grade 9 junior high team, participate with or against a student enrolled in grade 11 or 12.
17. must, if absent five or more days due to illness or injury, present to your principal a written verification from a physician
licensed to practice medicine, stating you may participate again. (See Rule 3-11 and 9-14.)
18. must not participate in camps, clinics or schools during the IHSAA authorized contest season. Consult your high school
principal for regulations regarding out-of-season and summer.
19. girls shall not be permitted to participate in an IHSAA tournament program for boys where there is an IHSAA tournament
program for girls in that sport in which they can qualify as a girls tournament entrant.
This is only a brief summary of the eligibility rules. You may access the IHSAA Eligibility Rules (By-Laws) at www.ihsaa.org Please contact your school officials for further information and before participating outside your school. (Consent & Release Certificate - on back or next page)
19 (3 of 4 physical form)
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CONSENT & RELEASE CERTIFICATE
I. STUDENT ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND RELEASE CERTIFICATE (to be signed by student) A. I have read the IHSAA Eligibility Rules (page 3) and know of no reason why I am not eligible to represent my school in athletic competition.
B. If accepted as a representative, I agree to follow the rules and abide by the decisions of my school and the IHSAA.
C. I know that athletic participation is a privilege. I know of the risks involved in athletic participation, understand that serious injury, and even death,
is possible in such participation, and choose to accept such risks. I voluntarily accept any and all responsibility for my own safety and welfare while
participating in athletics, with full understanding of the risks involved, and agree to release and hold harmless my school, the schools involved and the
IHSAA of and from any and all responsibility and liability, including any from their own negligence, for any injury or claim resulting from such
athletic participation and agree to take no legal action against my school, the schools involved or the IHSAA because of any accident or mishap
involving my athletic participation.
D. I consent to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of courts in Marion County, Indiana for all claims and disputes between and among the IHSAA
and me, including but not limited to any claims or disputes involving injury, eligibility or rule violation.
I HAVE READ THIS CAREFULLY AND KNOW IT CONTAINS A RELEASE PROVISION.
II. PARENT/GUARDIAN/EMANCIPATED STUDENT CONSENT, ACKNOWLEDGMENT AND RELEASE CERTIFICATE (to be completed and signed by all parents/guardians, emancipated students; where divorce or separation, parent with legal custody must sign)
I/we hereby give consent for my son/daughter/me to participate in the following interschool sports not marked out:
B. I/we understand that participation may necessitate an early dismissal from classes.
C. I/we consent to the disclosure, by my son’s/my daughter’s/my school, to the IHSAA of all requested, detailed financial (athletic or otherwise),
scholastic and attendance records of such school concerning my son/daughter/me.
D. I/we know of and acknowledge that my son/daughter knows of the risks involved in athletic participation, understand that serious injury, and even
death, is possible in such participation and choose to accept any and all responsibility for his/her/my safety and welfare while participating in athletics.
With full understanding of the risks involved, I/we release and hold harmless my/our school, the schools involved and the IHSAA of and from any and
all responsibility and liability, including any from their own negligence, for any injury or claim resulting from such athletic participation and agree to
take no legal action against the IHSAA or the schools involved because of any accident or mishap involving my son’s/my daughter’s/my athletic
participation.
E. I consent to the exclusive jurisdiction and venue of courts in Marion County, Indiana for all claims and disputes between and among the IHSAA
and me and/or my child, including but not limited to any claims or disputes involving injury, eligibility, or rule violation.
F. Please check the appropriate space:
� The student has school student accident insurance. � The student has football insurance through school.
� The student has adequate family insurance coverage. � The student does not have insurance.
FORM D – 3/07 g:/printing/forms/schools/physicalform.pmd
CONSENT & RELEASE CERTIFICATE File In Office of the Principal
Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc. Separate Form Required for Each School Year 9150 North Meridian St., P.O. Box 40650, Indianapolis, IN 46240-0650
WESTFIELD HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC HANDBOOK STUDENT CERTIFICATION OF KNOWLEDGE & RELEASE
I have read the Westfield High School Athletic Handbook for Student-Athletes, which includes information on the random drug testing policy and concussion awareness. I believe I am eligible to represent my present school in athletics and agree to abide by said rules and regulations of my school and the IHSAA. To the best
of my knowledge, I have suffered no injury or illness in the past that would hinder my participation in my chosen sport(s).
I acknowledge that I have received and been informed of the athletic code, random drug testing policy, and concussion awareness information. I understand the Code
and RDT Policy applies to me year-round and realize that I am subject to disciplinary measures should I violate the code. I do agree to participate and conduct myself in accordance with the rules of our athletic code and with any other specific rules of my coaches. I know that athletic participation is a privilege. I further understand
and have been told that there is a risk of being injured that is inherent in all sports. I realize that the risk may be severe, including the risk of fracture, brain injury,
paralysis, or even death, and choose to accept such risks. I voluntarily accept any and all responsibility for my own safety and welfare while participating in athletics, with full understanding of the risks involved. I also understand that travel is necessary and accident-causing injury is a possibility.
