Student Athlete Handbook

• Bylaws
• Policy Document
• Procedures
• Guidelines
• Form

TABLE OF CONTENTS

• Introduction
• Student Rights and Responsibilities
• Department of Athletics
• Mission Statement
• Telephone Directory
• Student-Athlete Code of Conduct
• Role and Responsibility of the Fredonia Student Athlete
• Sportsmanlike Conduct
• Fredonia Sportsmanship Statement
• Formal Greivance Procedure—Due Process
• Student Host Guidelines
• Academic Policies: Fredonia
• Declaration of a Major Program
• Course Selection
• Registration
• Course Load
• Class Attendance
• Notifying Professors of Missed Classes
• Grading System
• Quality Point Average
• Academic Eligibility
• The Learning Center
• NCAA Policies Governing Eligibility
• Physicals & Health-Related Issues Governing Eligibility
• Athletic Training Services
• Athletic Medical Eligibility
• Athletic Injury and Illness Procedures
• Athletic Training Room Rules
• Student Health Center
• Campus Counseling Services
• Policies on Hazing, Alcohol, Assault, & Social Networking
• College Policy Statement on Hazing and Initiation
• College Policy Statement on Sexual Assault
• Athletic Department Policy on Social Networking Sites
• College Policy on Alcoholic Beverages and Drug Use
• Athletic Department Policy on Disordered Eating
• NCAA Rules Regarding Drug Tests
• Non-NCAA Athletics Organization Positive Drug Test
• Travel/Meal Money
• Equipment/Uniforms
• Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
• Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR)
• Title IX

INTRODUCTION

Every student who participates in intercollegiate athletics becomes a member of a team chosen to represent Fredonia. By so doing, a student-athlete assumes special obligations and responsibilities for meeting requirements set forth by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), the State University of New York Athletic Conference (SUNYAC), and Fredonia.

The Athletic Department believes it is a privilege for the student-athlete to represent Fredonia on the field of play and expects behavior both on and off the field to be exemplary. The department also views members of the college’s athletic teams as student-athletes. The student-athlete’s main purpose at Fredonia is to obtain an academic degree. The coaches and administration expect that each athlete will attend all classes and execute all assignments unless illness or emergencies arise. Further, student-athletes are expected to consult with instructors on an individual basis about academic problems and should avail themselves of the services provided at the Learning Center, located on the 4th floor of Reed Library.

A student-athlete is a responsible adult. Therefore, all choices and decisions regarding personal/academic life reside with the student-athlete. Behavior appropriate of those viewed as responsible role models is expected. Behavior which brings discredit to the student-athlete or to the institution he/she represents cannot and will not be tolerated.

Please read all information contained in this handbook. It has been designed to help keep you abreast of the rules of the NCAA as well as the expectations of the Athletic Department of Fredonia.

Student Rights and Responsibilities

Attendance at Fredonia is a privilege afforded the student by the State of New York and not a legal right. The determination of a student’s fitness to be admitted to the college and to continue as a student has been entrusted by the Board of Trustees of the State University to the University President and his/her staff.

Department of Athletics

Fredonia has a long and storied history of successful competition on the athletic fields, courts and rinks across the state. A highly respected coaching staff has produced over 100 collegiate All-Americans and a plethora of team championships at the division, conference and regional levels. Fredonia’s coaches also serve on advisory committees throughout the east and have held top positions in a number of state-wide, regional and national organizations.

Offering a wide range of programs for students wishing to participate at a competitive level, Fredonia sponsors varsity athletic teams for men in the following sports: baseball, basketball, cross country, hockey, soccer, swimming and diving, and track and field. Offerings on the women’s side include: basketball, cheerleading, cross country, lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming and diving, tennis, track and field, and volleyball.

All full-time undergraduate students are eligible to try out for Fredonia’s athletic teams. Athletic eligibility is determined through the office of the Director of Athletics. Varsity athletes must comply with all appropriate rules and regulations of Fredonia, as well as those of all playing conferences with which Fredonia is affiliated.

In addition to being certified eligible to participate through the Athletic Director’s office, each prospective student-athlete must receive clearance from the Student Health Center prior to participating in team activities including practice, staff-supervised pre-season conditioning, and contests. All student-athletes are encouraged to enroll in the college’s insurance program or provide the Director of Athletics with evidence of personal health and accident insurance coverage.

The athletic policies of Fredonia are developed by the Director of Athletics in conjunction with the Intercollegiate Athletic Board, an advisory board to the University President composed of faculty, students and administrators. Athletic affiliations are maintained with the NCAA and SUNYAC. While programs range in strength from national level competition to competitive conference play, the college encourages students to try out for teams if their ability warrants.

MISSION STATEMENT

The Fredonia Department of Athletics and Recreation strives to provide opportunities within the intercollegiate athletics program for members of the student body to participate in competitive athletics which place special importance on the participants rather than the spectator. The Department encourages the development of sportsmanship and positive societal attitudes in all constituents – student-athletes, coaches, administrative personnel and spectators.  Within the limitation of its resources, the Department will furnish a safe, challenging and supportive environment in which every participant has the opportunity to develop individual talents to the best of the individual’s ability.  The Department is committed to fair and equitable treatment of all individuals regardless of an individual’s race, ethnicity, national origin, religion, age, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, and/or gender identity.  While student-athletes relish the opportunity to compete, emphasis will be placed on keeping student-athletes focused on academic performance and the ultimate goal of graduating. Even though team performance may be of great interest to members of the surrounding communities, the impact of competition on the student-participant will be the most important factor in any decision regarding scheduling, travel, safety, and participation. 

TELEPHONE DIRECTORY

All phone numbers begin with 673, unless otherwise stated. When using a campus phone, use the extension listed below:

STUDENT-ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT

At all times, student-athletes are expected to act in a manner that reflects positively upon themselves, their sport, the athletic program and the college as a whole. A student-athlete charged with breaking the law or with violating the college’s Standards of Behavior may have privileges restricted or be suspended from participation in the intercollegiate athletic program, pending a campus due-process hearing or the disposition of the case in court. Prior to the due-process hearing as outlined in the college catalogue, any student-athlete charged with a violation may be suspended from participation in the intercollegiate athletic program. The temporary sanction may be imposed as a result of a preliminary hearing involving the Vice President for Student Affairs or the Director of Athletics or their designee.

ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF THE FREDONIA STUDENT ATHLETE

You, the Fredonia Student-Athlete, have a special responsibility to uphold all National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and SUNY-Fredonia rules, and other policies or procedures imposed by the Athletic Department and Coach. You are responsible for being knowledgeable about and adhering to the information contained in this handbook.

You are always a representative of the University. Therefore, your behavior can credit or discredit yourself, the University, the Athletic Department and fellow teammates. As an athlete, you will receive more scrutiny than your student peers. The athletics department has several expectations of you. You are expected to: practice personal and academic integrity; respect the dignity, rights and property of others; discourage bigotry while striving to learn from differences in people, ideas and opinions; and demonstrate concern for others and their feelings. This is not a list to be accomplished overnight. It is a lifelong process that can begin now. Over the next four years during your tenure as a Blue Devil at Fredonia, you will have many experiences that will test you academically and athletically.

During your enrollment at Fredonia you will receive no preferential treatment in any area of your academic program such as: grades, class attendance, admissions, registration, class schedules, examinations or degree requirements. Faculty members are willing to assist you in any way they reasonably can. Communication with your professors is an integral part of building a positive relationship.

If you should have any questions or concerns please feel free to contact any or all of the people listed below.

• Your coach
• Megan Valentine, Interim Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator
• Dr. Eileen Lyon, Faculty Athletic Representative

SPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

When competing, you are expected to demonstrate good sportsmanship. You will be in the public eye and your conduct should favorably reflect upon yourself, your team and Fredonia. Your coach will instruct you in positive techniques for communicating with opponents and officials. As a student-athlete, you must avoid the following behavior:

• Physical abuse of an official, coach, athlete, or spectator.
• Throwing objects at an individual or spectator.
• Use of obscene or inappropriate language or gestures to officials, opponents, team members or spectators.

Any action that violates standards or values associated with Fredonia as determined by the Director of Athletics or Conference Commissioner will result in penalties. 

FREDONIA SPORTSMANSHIP STATEMENT

Fredonia is committed to establishing sportsmanship and developing healthy environments for competition. The college promotes good sportsmanship by student-athletes, coaches, administrators and spectators. We wish to abolish the notion that it is desirable to create a “hostile” environment for intercollegiate athletic contests. Instead, we will strive to create “hospitable” environments. An integral part of education in sports is to teach our youth and our communities to conduct themselves with sportsmanship and respect for opponents. Participants and officials should be supported in a positive manner. Profanity, racial or sexist comments or other intimidating actions directed at officials, student-athletes, coaches, or team representatives will not be tolerated.

In an effort to achieve this goal, Fredonia has developed this statement which outlines the expectations of the various groups and individuals associated with our intercollegiate athletics program. We believe that adherence to a spirit of sportsmanship will create a wholesome atmosphere that will attract more fans to our events and add to the enjoyment.

Administrators

It is incumbent upon institutional administrators to create an environment of hospitality for visiting teams. Administrators will encourage the attitude that the treatment of a visiting team and its fans will be in the same manner that they would want their teams to be treated. All game staff will be expected to behave in a professional and sportsmanlike manner in dealing with visiting teams and their fans.

Coaches

Coaches are expected to exercise their influence to teach high principles of sportsmanship to their team members. Disrespect in any form towards opponents will not be condoned. Coaches should also realize that they have the ability to influence the behavior of their fans. Coaches are encouraged to express their desire for fans to support the Blue Devils without embarrassing the visiting teams. Young people do not deserve to be mistreated by a hostile crowd.

Student-Athletes

Respect for the game in which student-athletes participate also demands respect for the opponent. Fredonia student-athletes are expected to treat their opponents with sportsmanship. There will be no tolerance of taunting and baiting of opponents. Use of obscene or inappropriate language or gestures to opponents, officials, or spectators is not acceptable. Student-athletes are perhaps the most visible representatives of the college and young people observe and often emulate that behavior. Student-Athletes must honor the responsibilities that accompany the privilege of representing Fredonia by behaving with dignity and class on and off the playing field.

FORMAL GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE—DUE PROCESS

Each student, student‑athlete and staff member shall be granted due process. Any individual (student or employee) who believes he or she has been discriminated against, denied a benefit or right, denied due process, or excluded improperly from participation in any athletic program or activity may lodge a formal grievance within athletics by following the procedures cited below.

The department encourages the use of pre‑grievance meetings with appropriate staff members prior to the filing of a formal grievance with the Athletic Director.

Procedures for filing a formal grievance are as follows:

1. Submit a written complaint to the Athletic Director with specific details and corresponding dates being a part of that specific presentation. Within ten working days of filing, the Athletic Director shall ‑ after gathering available facts ‑ provide a written answer to the complainant.
   1. If the complainant is satisfied, the situation is “closed.” 
2. Following the written response outlined in (1) above, the complainant, if still not satisfied, has five days in which to appeal in writing to the Athletic Director and to request a conference with the Athletic Director or his designee. Said conference shall be at a mutually agreed upon time and place.  The results of such conference shall be put in writing by the designee of the Athletic Director.  The written results of the conference shall be forwarded to the complainant within five working days following the conference.  This hearing is an informal hearing and may be continued by mutual agreement of the complainant and the Athletic Director.
   1. If the complainant is satisfied the situation is “closed.”
3. If the complainant remains unsatisfied after completion of step (2) cited above, the matter may be further appealed in writing by the complainant within ten working days to the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services citing the reasons supporting this final appeal.
   1. A meeting, at a mutually agreeable time, (but no later than within two weeks) will be scheduled between the Athletic Director, the complainant, and the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services. Additional persons may be present for fact finding and clarification.  A written summation of that meeting and possible solutions will be furnished to the complainant no later than ten working days following this meeting.
   2. The decision of the Vice President for Enrollment and Student Services shall “close” the situation.

STUDENT HOST GUIDELINES

There are many responsibilities that come with being a student-athlete. From time to time you may be asked to host a prospective student-athlete. As a representative of the Fredonia Athletic Department remember to be:

• Cordial
• Prompt
• Helpful
• Honest

The athletic department expects the student host to be concerned with the safety and welfare of the prospective student-athlete and act in a manner that reflects positively upon themselves, their sport, the athletic program, and the college as a whole.

The athletic department at Fredonia strictly prohibits prospective student-athletes visiting the Fredonia campus, and their student hosts, from engaging in any illegal activities. These activities include, but are not limited to, the underage consumption of alcohol and the use of any illegal substances. Any athlete found engaging in these activities or in violation of the college’s Standards of Behavior may have their privileges restricted or be suspended from participation in intercollegiate athletics as outlined in the Student-Athlete Handbook “Code of Conduct”.

It is expected that the student host will discuss and plan activities with the head coach prior to all prospective student-athlete visitations, and to call the head coach immediately if a problem or emergency arises concerning the prospective student-athlete.

Just remember how you would like to be treated and that prospects become future teammates!

ACADEMIC POLICIES:  FREDONIA

Declaration of a Major Program

In order to complete the college requirements for a baccalaureate degree, every student must complete an approved departmental or interdepartmental major program by satisfactory performance in the courses specified by the program. Students may declare a major before earning 30 semester hours of credit, except in some professional programs, and must make the declaration of program prior to earning 60 semester hours of credit. Information on the declaration of major can be obtained at the Office of Academic Advising, Reed Library--4th Floor.

Certain major programs have a minimum quality point average requirement for admission.

The declaration of a major program, as well as changes in the major, should be made well in advance of course selection. The appropriate form is available in the Office of the Registrar and in department offices. The chairperson responsible for departmental programs or the coordinator responsible for interdepartmental programs will assign students an advisor and will certify at the appropriate time that all program requirements have been completed.

Course Selection

Course selection is held during the latter part of the regular spring and fall semesters preceding the semester for which enrollment is sought. The exact dates of course selection will be announced by the registrar through the mail and in campus publications.

Students wishing to course select must meet with their advisors, who must approve the courses selected. Students will then be given a PIN to register online from their advisor, along with the date and time they will be “eligible to register”.

Students who are denied one or more of their selected courses will be eligible to attend the Early Change Center, which is held near the end of the semester. At that time, courses that are still open can be added to students’ schedules.

Registration

In addition to participating in the Course Selection period, all students must complete registration according to the directions issued by the offices of the Registrar and Student Accounts.

In compliance with the regulations of the Board of Trustees of the State University, students who have not satisfied their financial obligations to the college will not be permitted to register.

Registration must be completed by the end of the first week of classes. A service charge is imposed for registrations taking place after the first day of classes.

Course Load

For most undergraduate programs, the normal class load is 15 to 16 semester hours. A student who wishes to carry a class load of more than 19 semester hours must secure the approval of the chairperson of his/her major department. The minimum class load to be considered a full-time student is 12 semester hours. In order to represent Fredonia on an athletic team and engage in intercollegiate competition, a student-athlete must be registered for at least 12 semester hours during his/her season of competition. Any student athlete dropping below 12 credit hours must notify his/her coach immediately!

Class Attendance

At Fredonia, students will experience a variety of educational styles and opportunities. Attendance is expected in all classes. Some courses will require attendance. Some courses will base a part of the grade on attendance and participation. Other courses will have no formal requirements concerning attendance. Instructors will indicate the attendance policy as a part of the course syllabus.

It is the student’s responsibility, if absent, to find out what material was covered, what assignments were given, and what announcements were made in class during the period of absence.

Because the university is concerned about the welfare of its students and wishes to provide assistance in case of absence for valid reasons, students are encouraged to notify the Office of Student Affairs in the event of an unusual series (three or more consecutive days) of absences due to health or personal reasons. The office will then notify instructors.

Each instructor is responsible for establishing a policy concerning cases in which regularly scheduled graded work is missed and for determining whether the reason for having missed such work is valid. The instructor may make that determination based on discussion with the student or may request appropriate documentation. If the instructor determines that a student has a valid reason for missing the work, the instructor may choose to give the student an opportunity to make it up or may, in exceptional cases, base the grade for the course on other work. In the event of a disagreement over the validity of the absence, the student may appeal to the instructor’s chairperson. When a student is directly participating in a university-sponsored program that takes him/her away from classes (e.g., athletics or research conference), the department sponsoring the program will provide the student with documentation indicating the activity in which the student is involved and the date(s) and time(s) of that involvement. Such participation will be considered a valid reason for missing the work. Thus, instructors should offer the student an opportunity to make up the work or may base the grade for the course on other work. In the event of a disagreement over the validity of the absence, the student may appeal to the instructor’s chairperson or supervisor. If a student anticipates having to miss regularly scheduled graded work, the student should contact the instructor ahead of time. The instructor may expect the student to complete the work before the scheduled time when that is feasible. If a student misses the final examination for a course because of illness or some other cogent reason, and a make-up cannot be scheduled in time, the student will receive a grade of incomplete.

If a student must be absent due to religious beliefs, he/she has the right to make up examinations, etc. For full details, see the College Catalog.

Notifying Professors of Missed Classes

1. Provide your professors with a list of planned missed classes the first week of classes. You will receive official documentation to be given to your professors from the athletic department within the first few weeks of classes, but you can type up your own list to give to your professors for the first day or two of classes. Include dates of post-season play as well as regular-season competitions. As the dates for competitions get closer, remind your professors of the planned missed dates.
2. Meet with your professors to tell them how you plan to make up missed time in their classes. For example, if you will miss a test due to an athletic competition, talk with the professor about how the test can be made up (e.g., either before or after the test is given to the rest of the class). Options to make up missed classes could include: audio-taping missed lectures, meeting with the professor during office hours to discuss class material, and getting missed notes from a classmate.
3. Don’t miss class for other reasons that are not excusable (e.g., sleeping late). Faculty will be more likely to accommodate your need to miss class for athletic competitions if you demonstrate commitment to the class by not having unexcused absences, and if you communicate with them about dates you will miss class and how you will make up for these missed classes.
4. If an athletic competition is cancelled or if you are not going to compete for some reason (e.g., injury), you should attend class. This will help your professors know that you are committed to your education, and are only missing classes when needed for athletics.

Grading System

Each student’s progress is evaluated and reported four times a year – at mid-semesters (October and March) and at the end of semesters (December and May). The symbols used to record achievement on the permanent record card are as follows:

       A Superior

       A-

       B+

       B Very Good

       B-

       C+

       C Fair

       C-

       D+

       D Passing

       D-

       F Failing

       I Incomplete

       P Satisfactory completion of course under Pass-Fail Option

       E Course has been repeated

       S Satisfactory completion of requirements

       U Unsatisfactory performance or failure

       W Indicates withdrawal from the university.

       WC Withdrawal from a course

Quality Point Average

The quality point system is used to indicate a student’s overall academic average.

Each course grade of:

       A        carries 4.0 quality points per semester

       A–     carries 3.7 quality points per semester

       B+      carries 3.3 quality points per semester

       B        carries 3.0 quality points per semester

       B–      carries 2.7 quality points per semester

       C+      carries 2.3 quality points per semester

       C        carries 2.0 quality points per semester

       C–      carries 1.7 quality points per semester

       D+     carries 1.3 quality points per semester

       D        carries 1.0 quality points per semester

       D–     carries 0.7 quality points per semester

Course grades of E, F, P, R, S, X and U carry no quality points.

The quality point average for a semester is determined by dividing the total quality points earned by the number of hours carried that semester; the cumulative quality point average, by dividing the total quality points accumulated to this point in the student’s college career by the total number of hours carried, including courses failed.

Hours earned for courses with P, X, and S grades are not included in figuring the semester or cumulative average; hours failed (grade of E, F, and U) are.

Academic Eligibility

A student-athlete must maintain the following minimum cumulative grade point average in order to be eligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics at Fredonia:

At end of freshman year —       1.65 GPA *

At end of sophomore year —  1.85 GPA *

At end of junior year —           2.00 GPA *

* These minimum GPAs are the GPAs earned at Fredonia only. While credits from other
institutions transfer to Fredonia, GPAs from other institutions do not.

These are the minimum academic requirements established by the Fredonia Athletic Department. The Athletic Department reserves the right to review any student-athlete’s eligibility. Furthermore, any student-athlete who receives below a 1.0 GPA in any semester or receives under a 2.0 GPA for two consecutive semesters will immediately have their eligibility reviewed and determined in consultation with their coach and the Director of Athletics. Coaches within the Fredonia Athletic Department have the authority to establish academic eligibility requirements above the minimum departmental standards. These policies must be presented to all team members at the start of the season.

In addition, those student-athletes who find themselves on University Probation shall meet with the university’s Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) twice during the semester while on probation.  These meetings are designed to help the student-athlete identify factors which have impeded good academic achievement in the past.

Any concerns or questions regarding student-athlete eligibility should be directed to the Director of Athletics.

The Learning Center

The Learning Center provides tutoring in academic subjects to any member of the college population. The Center’s peer tutoring program is run on a drop-in basis at no cost to the student. Subjects tutored include writing, math, computer science, business administration, economics, statistics, biology, chemistry, physics and foreign languages. Fredonia’s Learning Center has been rated among the best in the SUNY system in Student Opinion Surveys administered by the American College Testing service.

The computer SuperLab in the Learning Center provides students with a variety of word processing programs on both Pentium and Power PC platforms. Learning Center tutors are available to assist students with academic work using programs for calculus, business, computer science, and the natural and social sciences. Internet and electronic mail capabilities give students access to a world full of electronic research tools.

For more information, visit the Learning Center (Reed Library—4th Floor) or call 673-3550.

NCAA POLICIES GOVERNING ELIGIBILITY

Before you are eligible to represent Fredonia as a student-athlete, you will be required to sign a number of documents affirming that, to the best of your knowledge, you are eligible by NCAA regulation to engage in intercollegiate competition. The following is a brief synopsis of those documents.

In order to practice/compete, you must affirm that:

1. You are a full-time student registered for, and carrying, at least 12 semester hours of college work.
2. You are in good academic standing according to the standards of your institution.
3. You are an amateur athlete in the sport in which you are participating:
   1. You have never taken pay or the promise of pay to compete in your sport;
   2. You have not played on a professional athletics team in your sport;
   3. You have not used your athletic skills for pay in any form in your sport.
4. You have not received financial aid other than that administered through the Financial Aid Office.
5. You have not tested positive for the use of substances listed on the NCAA’s list of banned drugs.
6. You have not been illegally recruited:
   1. Neither you, your relatives nor your friends have been offered financial aid or benefits other than those allowed by NCAA legislation;
   2. You were not contacted, in person, by a coach or representative of the Fredonia athletic department until the conclusion of your sophmore year of high school (unless that contact took place while you were visiting our campus and you, rather than the coach, initiated contact).
7. You have not been involved in any illegal gambling activities.
8. You will compete with honesty and sportsmanship at all times so that you represent the honor and dignity of fair play.

PHYSICALS & HEALTH-RELATED ISSUES GOVERNING ELIGIBILITY

ATHLETIC TRAINING SERVICES

MISSION STATEMENT -—Our mission is to provide quality medical care to the student-athletes at the State University of New York at Fredonia.  Quality services include care and prevention of athletic injuries, as well as any rehabilitation prescribed under the direction of a physician.  The general health and wellness is the ultimate goal in the care of each student-athlete.  It is our responsibility as athletic trainers to recognize that all athletes and coaches are individuals with specific needs.  We will strive to meet those needs when reasonable, and to do so in an appropriate, professional, and timely manner.  Services include not only the prevention and care of athletic injuries, but also first aid, evaluation, and rehabilitation through the use of ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and many other state-of-the-art pieces of rehabilitation equipment.  As athletic trainers, we have the opportunity to interact with athletes in situations and states of mind that the coaches, administrators, and fans will not see.  Therefore, each athlete must feel comfortable knowing that the issues addressed in the Athletic Training Room, either spoken or acted, will remain in the strictest confidence.  Our goal is to have the sense of duty to try anything, within the realm of athletic training, to help an athlete get back to their area of competition.  It is imperative that the athletes and their respective coaching staffs feel this sense of duty and commitment.  We pride ourselves on the day-to-day organized operations of the athletic training facility in order to obtain the goals of the program.  We strive to continually update the athletic training facilities and to provide a continuing education setting for the athletic training staff to improve its professional knowledge and skills.  More importantly, the Fredonia Athletic Training Staff also strives to have an open communication and cooperation with administrators, coaches, athletes, and students in order to obtain our mission.

ATHLETIC MEDICAL ELIGILIBILITY

The following guidelines are designed to help inform and clarify an athlete’s athletic medical eligibility.  A student athlete will not be allowed to participate until the following have been satisfied.  Please remember that these are requirements in addition to what may be needed by LoGrasso Health Center.   If you need further clarification, contact Fredonia Athletic Training Services directly. 

• Create a profile at SportsWare Online, www.swol123.net, with the directions provided by your coach or found online at www.fredoniabluedevils.com in the “Athletic Training” section under “Inside Athletics”
• Physical Form to be completed by your Primary Care Physician, form found at www.swol123.net.  Note-NCAA guidelines state that the physical MUST be performed within six months of the athlete’s first day of Fredonia participation!  *New First-Year and Incoming Transfer Student-Athletes Only*
• Sickle Cell Trait Status – Complete the online form in your SportsWare Online profile AND provide any supporting documentation (proof of sickle cell trait result) from your Primary Care Physician, directions and forms can be found at www.swol123.net
• Medical History and Demographic Information – Completed online at www.swol123.net
• Release of Info/Permission to Treat – Completed online at www.swol123.net
• Copy of Medical Insurance Card – Please provide front and back, either scan and upload a PDF copy to your SportsWare Online profile, or mail the original copies.  (Returning athletes DO NOT need to submit a new copy if their insurance has not changed from the previous year!)
• ADD/ADHD Medical Exception Form to be completed by your Primary Care Physician, as well as supporting documentation as outlined in packet. *Only if applicable if you have been diagnosed with ADD/ADHD*
• Complete a valid concussion baseline testing profile at concussionvitalsigns.com, Fredonia will provide login credentials

RETURN TO PLAY DECISIONS

Following injury, return-to-play decisions will be made by SUNY-Fredonia’s Team Physician. 

STUDENT HEALTH CENTER

The Student Health Center located in LoGrasso Hall is under the direction of the college physician and a staff of registered nurses; it provides health service delivery to all registered students. The health service is funded by a mandatory health fee paid each semester. Services and most medications prescribed are available with the exception of allergy injections and specialized medication for which a prescription will be provided.

The outpatient clinic cares for minor illnesses, injuries, referrals, wellness counseling, health education and laboratory services. This modern health center provides 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. coverage Monday through Friday.

Emergency coverage is available at Brooks Memorial Hospital in Dunkirk.

Health and accident insurance is essential for all students. Experience indicates that students not covered under a personal comprehensive health plan should purchase the health plan made available to all registered students through the college. A comprehensive group policy is provided through the Office of Enrollment and Student Services at a modest cost for those not otherwise covered.by Campus Counseling Services

The SUNY Fredonia Counseling Center (SFCC) offers free, confidential, and individualized services by licensed mental health professionals to all registered students. Their professional counselors work individually or with groups to help students understand themselves better, resolve problems, come to terms with difficult issues, and/or address important decisions.  Professional counseling is different from talking to a friend or parent about what is going on in one’s life and much more than “venting” about life stress or getting advice about how to deal with a problem.  Counselors have been trained to facilitate change and promote developmental growth within an individual.  While participating in counseling, an individual can expect:

• A safe, supportive, collaborative, and non-judgmental climate where they can openly express their thoughts and feelings with someone who is interested in listening to their concerns and who will take these concerns seriously.
• To gain a deepened awareness of their personal patterns of thinking and behaviors that factor into their feeling “stuck” or emotionally distressed.
• To learn, where appropriate, more effective coping skills.
• To identify and achieve goals that are important to them.

A Note About Confidentiality:

SFCC client information is strictly confidential within ethical and legal guidelines. Information can only be released with the written consent of the student, except in situations where a student poses a threat of serious harm to self or to others, in the case of abuse/neglect of a minor, or in the case of a court-ordered release of information.  All records regarding a student’s participation in counseling are protected by law and are kept separate from all other academic records related to attending Fredonia. 

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention Services

The SAVP program strives to create a campus culture in which members make informed and responsible decisions regarding their personal and community health. SAVP works to reduce the incidence, prevalence, and severity of substance abuse and interpersonal violence related problems among Fredonia students.  This comprehensive program provides training, advocacy services, intervention, and educational opportunities in the following areas: alcohol and other drugs; rape and sexual assault; dating and domestic violence; stalking and harassment; and sexual health. 

Hours of Operation/Location

Monday – Friday  8:30 a.m. —4:30 p.m.
LoGrasso Hall

Contact Information

Phone: (716) 673-3424
Fax: (716) 673-3140
Email: Counseling.Center@fredonia.edu
Web: www.fredonia.edu/counseling

POLICIES ON HAZING, ALCOHOL, ASSAULT, & SOCIAL NETWORKING

College Policy Statement on Hazing and Initiation

Hazing is defined as engaging in any action or creating a situation intentionally or unintentionally designed to produce mental or physical discomfort, harassment, or excessive ridicule in the course of another person’s initiation into or affiliation with any organization.

No organization may engage in any form of hazing.  Fredonia reserves the right to revoke recognition of any individual, student organization, or club which is found to violate the college’s policy on hazing. Student-athletes found in violation of this policy may be suspended from representing the college as a member of an athletic team and may face prosecution in court under New York State criminal statutes.

College Policy Statement on Sexual Assault

The Fredonia campus will not tolerate sexual assault in any form, including acquaintance rape. Where there is probable cause to believe that the campus’ regulations prohibiting sexual assault have been violated, the campus will pursue strong disciplinary action through its own channels. This discipline includes the possibility of suspension or dismissal from the college as well as from any student organization with which the offender is associated.

A student charged with sexual assault can be prosecuted under New York State criminal statutes and disciplined under the campus’ code of student conduct. Even if the criminal justice authorities choose not to prosecute, the campus can pursue disciplinary action.

Athletic Department Policy on Social Networking Sites

As a premier educational institution, Fredonia supports and encourages an individual’s expression of First Amendment rights of free speech. This includes participation in online social networking sites (e.g. myspace.com, facebook.com, etc.).

The Department of Athletics does not place any restrictions on the use of these sites by student-athletes. However, as a member of the Fredonia Department of Athletics, you are reminded that you are a representative of the University, and therefore, always in the public eye.

Please note, you will be held accountable for any inappropriate postings on your social networking site. Examples of inappropriate postings include, but are not limited to: 1) photos of you or any other members of a Fredonia varsity athletics team engaging in unsuitable behavior with alcohol, drugs or any other illegal substance, 2) descriptive details or photos of parties or events, 3) derogatory comments about Fredonia, the Department of Athletics, or any member of the administrative or coaching staff.

Student-athletes will face disciplinary sanctions and/or dismissal from their team if they are found to be in violation of the standards or philosophies of the University, the Department of Athletics (including the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct), and/or the NCAA.

Therefore, it is imperative you keep the following points in mind if you participate in social networking web sites:

• participating in any online community, understand that anything posted online is easily available to everyone. Any text or photo you post online is completely out of your control the moment it is uploaded, regardless of whether or not you limit access to your site;
• Do not post personal information, photos, or other items online that could embarrass you, your team, or the University. This includes information, photos, and items posted by others on your page. In addition, do not allow your friends to post your information or photos including you on their own page if it could embarrass you, your team, or the University;
• Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site. Unfortunately, many people are looking for opportunities to take advantage of student-athletes or to get close to student-athletes in order to gain a sense of membership on the team. While someone may seem as though they have good intentions, you may unwittingly end up a victim of their malicious behavior;
• Exercise caution as to what personal information you post on your website, including your whereabouts or plans. You could be opening yourself up to social predators;
• Remember that your behavior at parties and/or any other social gatherings can quickly become public information without your knowledge or consent. Candid photos of you taken by others can be posted online within minutes and will circulate just as quickly; 
• As part of their background checks on potential employees, employers now frequent social networks for information on candidates they are considering hiring. These types of searches have resulted in job offers being withdrawn after employers have discovered inappropriate information on an applicant’s online profile;
• Members of the Fredonia staff, including Department of Athletics coaches and administrators have the right to monitor these sites and request removal of posted information, photos, or other items deemed detrimental to the University, you, and/or your team.
• Violation of any of the aforementioned codes of conduct will result in sanctions.

College Policy on Alcoholic Beverages and Drug Use

In light of the challenges and problems facing student-athletes today in this country, Fredonia and the Department of Athletics recognizes that there is an obligation on the part of the student-athlete to maintain a high standard of behavior in terms of alcohol and substance abuse. While socially accepted by many, alcohol -—like any drug -—can be used abusively. Student-athletes should understand that they will be held accountable for inappropriate behavior while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

Student-athletes who find themselves in trouble as a result of alcohol abuse will meet with the Head Coach of the sport in which they participate as well as the Director of Athletics. Steps to remedy the problem as well as any disciplinary action to be taken will be decided at these meetings. Athletes should be aware that the Department of Athletics takes violations of the law involving alcohol and automobiles very seriously.  A student-athlete charged with —or convicted of —DUI or DWI should expect immediate disciplinary action that includes the loss of at least 50 percent of the NCAA maximum allowable contests in that sport.

The Athletic Department reminds the athlete that the legal drinking age for alcoholic beverages is 21 years of age. ALL athletes will refrain from the use of alcohol for at least 24 hours prior to any competition. No alcoholic beverages will be consumed by any athlete while on an intercollegiate athletic trip (regardless of the age of the athlete or the duration of the trip) and alcohol is not permitted in any athletic van or bus. Athletes found in violation of this policy are subject to suspension from the team and will be required to see the college’s substance abuse counselor in LoGrasso before reinstatement is considered.

Student-athletes who wish to obtain information on drug use and abuse or professional assistance concerning drug abuse should contact the SUNY College at Fredonia Counseling Center, located in LoGrasso Hall (673-3424). The Center’s professional counseling staff will provide counseling in a confidential setting or assist students in seeking the services of regional agencies specializing in problems of drug abuse or chemical dependency.

Athletic Department Policy on Disordered Eating

Introduction and Philosophy

1)   The Department of Athletics at Fredonia supports the development of healthy and responsible lifestyles for FSU student-athletes, with the goal of long-term enrichment and enhancement of their lives. Behaviors that threaten a healthy lifestyle include disordered eating.

2)   The Department of Athletics recognizes that the origin of eating disorders reflect the interaction of biological, psychological, and sociological factors in the development of eating disorders. Due to the nature of college athletics, student-athletes in particular are at an increased risk of developing or sustaining patterns of disordered eating.

3)   Depending on the extent of the disorder and the length of time the individual has engaged in such behaviors, the effects of disordered eating can range from mild to severe.

• Medically, there is a potential for serious consequences in every system of the body. Disordered eating can have short-term and long-term health consequences.
• Eating disorders are often associated with low self-esteem, obsessive thinking, and feelings of isolation.

4)   Recovery from eating disorders can be a difficult process that takes time. In general, the greater the duration and frequency of disordered eating, the longer it will take for recovery to occur.

5)   There is NOT substantial evidence linking thinness to superior performance. Body weight and composition is only one factor contributing to athletic performance.

Intervention Protocol for Student-Athletes

Fredonia and the Department of Athletics and Recreation is committed to the total development of the student-athlete, the maintenance of student-athletes’ health and well-being, and to the provision of preventive education and ameliorative services that meet student-athletes’ needs. The University’s values of community and service to others are strengthened by efforts to reach out to student-athletes who may be struggling or in personal difficulty.

Athletic Department personnel will be familiar with the signs and symptoms of eating disorders. If there is concern about an eating disorder in a student-athlete, either from a coach, teammate or staff person, that athlete will be referred to the Office of Student Affairs for further evaluation.

The Office of Student Affairs, in consultation with the Fredonia Health Center and/or the Fredonia Counseling Center, will determine the athletic participation status of the student-athlete. They will communicate this information via phone and in writing to the Director of Athletics.  Return to athletic participation will be determined by these aforementioned medical providers. 

NCAA Rules Regarding Drug Tests

18.4.1.5 Ineligibility for Use of Banned Drugs. A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests positive for use of a substance in a banned drug class, as set forth in Bylaw 31.2.3.1 , shall be declared ineligible for further participation in postseason and regular-season competition in accordance with the ineligibility provisions in this  bylaw. (Revised: 1/10/90 effective 8/1/90, 1/18/14 effective 8/1/14 for any NCAA drug test administered on or after 8/1/14, 6/19/14, 9/26/16)

18.4.1.5.1 Penalty -—Banned Drug Classes Other Than " Illicit Drugs." A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests positive for use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs" (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors), shall be charged with the loss of one season of participation in all sports, in addition to the use of a season of participation, pursuant to Bylaw 14.2.4.1, during the same academic year. The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending one calendar year (i.e., 365 days) after the collection of the student-athlete's positive drug-test specimen and until he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Revised: 1/10/90 effective 8/1/90, 1/16/93, 1/9/96 effective 8/1/96, 1/14/97 effective 8/1/97, 1/8/01, 4/15/03, 1/12/04 effective 8/1/04 for any athletics participation occurring on or after 8/1/04, 10/18/04 effective 8/1/05, 6/3/05, 6/9/05, 7/24/07, 1/18/14 effective 8/1/14 for any NCAA drug test administered on or after 8/1/14, 10/21/14, 2/10/15, 1/16/16 effective 8/1/16 for all drug tests administered on or after 8/1/16, 9/26/16, 1/26/17 effective 1/26/17)

18.4.1.5.1.1 Second Positive Test. If a student-athlete who previously tested positive for the use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs" tests positive a second time for the use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs," he or she shall lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports. If a student-athlete who previously tested positive for the use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs" tests positive for the use of a substance in the banned drug class " illicit drugs," he or she shall be ineligible for competition for 50 percent of a season in all sports (i.e., 50 percent of the Bylaw 17 maximum regular-season contests or dates of competition). The student-athlete shall remain ineligible from the time the institution is notified of the test result until the prescribed penalty is fulfilled and he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Adopted: 1/10/05 effective 8/1/05 for drug tests conducted on or after 8/1/05, Revised: 6/9/05, 1/16/16 effective 8/1/16 for all drug tests administered on or after 8/1/16, 9/26/16, 1/26/17 effective 1/26/17) 

18.4.1.5.2 Penalty -—" Illicit Drugs." A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA, tests positive for use of a substance in the banned drug class " illicit drugs" (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors) shall be charged with the loss of competition during 50 percent of a season in all sports (i.e., 50 percent of the Bylaw 17 maximum regular-season contests or dates of competition). The student-athlete shall remain ineligible from the time the institution is notified of the test result until the prescribed penalty is fulfilled and he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Adopted: 1/18/14 effective 8/1/14 for any NCAA drug test administered on or after 8/1/14, Revised: 2/10/15, 1/16/16 effective 8/1/16 for all drug tests administered on or after 8/1/16, 9/26/16, 1/26/17 effective 1/26/17)

18.4.1.5.2.1 Second Positive Test. If a student-athlete who previously tested positive for the use of a substance in the banned drug class " illicit drugs" tests positive a second time for the use of a substance in the banned drug class " illicit drugs," he or she shall be charged with the loss of one additional season of participation in all sports, in addition to the use of a season of participation, pursuant to Bylaw 14.2.4.1, during the same academic year. The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending one calendar year (i.e., 365 days) after the collection of his or her second positive drug-test specimen or until the period of ineligibility for any prior positive drug tests has expired, whichever occurs later. If a student-athlete who previously tested positive for the use of a substance in the banned drug class " illicit drugs" tests positive for use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs," he or she shall be charged with the loss of one season of participation in all sports, in addition to the use of a season of participation, pursuant to Bylaw 14.2.4.1, during the same academic year. The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending one calendar year (i.e., 365 days) after the collection of the student-athlete's positive drug test specimen and until he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Adopted: 9/26/16, Revised: 1/26/17 effective 1/26/17)

18.4.1.5.3 Breach of NCAA Drug-Testing Program Protocol. A student-athlete who is in breach of the NCAA drug-testing program protocol (e.g., no show) shall be considered to have tested positive for the use of a substance in a banned drug class other than " illicit drugs." (Adopted: 1/10/05 effective 8/1/05, Revised: 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12, 9/26/16, 1/26/17 effective 1/26/17)

18.4.1.5.3.1 Tampering With a Drug-Test Sample. A student-athlete who is involved in a case of clearly observed tampering with an NCAA drug test sample, as documented per NCAA drug-testing protocol by a drug-testing crew member, shall be charged with the loss of two seasons of participation in all sports if the season of competition has not yet begun for that student-athlete or the equivalent of two full seasons of participation in all sports if the student-athlete is involved in tampering with a drug-test sample during his or her season of participation (the remainder of contests in the current season and contests in the following two seasons up to the period of time in the initial season in which the student-athlete was declared ineligible).  The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending two calendar years (i.e., 730 days) after the student-athlete was involved in the tampering with a drug test sample and until he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors. (Adopted: 1/14/12 effective 8/1/12, Revised: 7/12/12, 9/26/16) 

18.4.1.5.4 Transfers. If a student-athlete transfers to another NCAA institution while ineligible, the institution from which the student-athlete transferred must notify the student-athlete's new institution that the student-athlete is ineligible. If the student-athlete transfers to a non-NCAA institution while ineligible and competes in intercollegiate competition during the prescribed period of ineligibility, the student-athlete will be ineligible for all NCAA regular-season and postseason competition until the student-athlete does not compete in intercollegiate competition for the entirety of the prescribed penalty. Furthermore, the student-athlete must retest negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Revised: 1/10/05 effective 8/1/05, 1/18/14 effective 8/1/14, 2/10/15, 1/16/16 effective 8/1/16 for all drug tests administered on or after 8/1/16, 9/26/16)

18.4.1.5.5 Appeals. An institution may appeal a drug-test penalty to the Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports (or a designated subcommittee). The committee may reduce the legislated penalty to withholding the student-athlete from the next 50 percent of the season of competition or provide complete relief from the legislated penalty. If the committee requires the student-athlete to fulfill the legislated penalty, or be withheld from the next 50 percent of the season of competition in all sports, the student-athlete shall remain ineligible until the prescribed penalty is fulfilled and he or she tests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Board of Governors). (Adopted: 9/26/16)

18.4.1.5.6 Banned Drugs and Drug-Testing Methods. The Board of Governors shall adopt a list of banned drug classes and shall authorize methods for drug testing of student-athletes on a year-round basis. The list of banned drug classes and the procedure for informing member institutions about authorized methods for drug testing are set forth in Bylaw 31.2.3.. (Revised: 1/10/90 effective 8/1/90, 6/3/05, 2/10/15, 9/26/16)

18.4.1.5.7 Non-NCAA Athletics Organization's Positive Drug Test. The Board of Governors shall authorize methods for drug testing any student-athlete who has disclosed in the student-athlete statement (see Bylaw 14.1.3.1) that he or she has a positive drug test administered by a non-NCAA athletics organization. A student-athlete under drug-testing suspension from a national or international sports governing body that has adopted the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) code shall not participate in NCAA intercollegiate competition for the duration of the suspension. (Adopted: 1/14/97 effective 8/1/97, Revised: 1/10/05 effective 8/1/05, 2/10/15)

Travel/Meal Money

All players listed on travel squads are expected to be available for competition unless extenuating circumstances exist. When traveling with a team, traveling attire should be clean, neat and presentable. A team dress code should be established at the beginning of each season. The Athletic Department suggests that men wear dress pants with a shirt and tie or travel suits where appropriate. Blue jeans, sweat pants, etc. are inappropriate and unacceptable unless approved in advance by the coach.  It is suggested that women wear dress pants or other dress attire as approved by the coach.

Transportation to and from contests will be provided by the college; athletes will not be allowed to use their own transportation to away contests. Athletes may be given permission to return home with their parents, provided they sign a release form and compelling reasons exist for not returning with the team.

Meal money is to be distributed by individual coaches and must be signed for by the individual whose name appears on the roster. (It should be noted that all teams are given the same amount of meal money per athlete.) The money is limited to a designated travel party size determined by the coach and the Director of Athletics. If a coach chooses to take more athletes than the designated travel party, the total amount of meal money will not change.

Equipment/Uniforms

All uniforms, travel bags and other equipment issued to a student-athlete become the responsibility of that athlete. All items must be returned to the Equipment Manager within one week of the end of the season or dismissal or voluntary separation/suspension from the team. Loss or theft of uniforms/equipment shall be the responsibility of each athlete; the athlete to whom the equipment was issued will be billed at the replacement cost. In addition, the Registrar will be notified to put a hold on all college transactions until the bill is paid in full or the equipment is returned in good condition.

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)

SAAC offers student-athletes on individual member institution campuses the opportunity to shape the landscape of intercollegiate athletics. This committee is meant to serve as a local student-athlete voice in addressing issues of student-athlete welfare at your respective institution. The goal of this committee is to help communication among student-athletes, coaches, and athletic administrators on issues to improve the student-athlete experience and promote growth and education through sports participation. Through concerns voiced and solutions offered, student-athletes have the opportunity to change the face of intercollegiate athletics.

Faculty Athletic Representative (FAR)

The Faculty Athletic Representative is a member of the Fredonia faculty, appointed by the college president and charged with providing oversight and advice in the administration of the Fredonia athletics program. The FAR serves as the bridge between the academic side of the university and the athletic side. The faculty athletics representatives’ primary responsibilities are to ensure academic integrity, facilitate institutional control of intercollegiate athletics, and enhance the student-athlete experience.

If you have any academic or student-athlete welfare concerns, please contact:

Dr. Eileen Lyon (FAR)
E306 Thompson Hall
(716) 673-4666

TITLE IX

The Fredonia athletic program adheres to all of the provisions of Title IX (letter and intent).
No person shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded from participating in, be denied the benefits of or be treated differently from another person or otherwise be discriminated against in any intercollegiate program at Fredonia.  If you have any questions or concerns, please contact:

Dr. William A. Boerner
Chief Diversity Officer
(716) 673-3358
William.Boerner@fredonia.edu