2013-14 Student Athlete Handbook

Administrative Staff Contact Office PhoneDirector of Athletics John D’Argenio 518-783-2531Associate Director of Athletics/Compliance/SWA Joyce Eggleston 518-783-2532Associate Athletic Director for Operations Dennis Bates 518-782-6454Assistant Director of Athletics/External Relations Lori Anctil 518-783-2530Assistant Director of Athletics/Business Operations Ken Grant 518-783-2940Assistant Director of Athletics/Communications Jason Rich 518-783-2411Sports Information Assistant Mike Demos 518-783-2377Corporate Sales Manager Tim Farrell 518-782-6590Marketing Manager Laura Menges 518-782-6769Compliance Coordinator Melissa Peach 518-782-6965Athletics Secretary Sybille Cowan 518-783-2551Assistant to the Athletic Director Heidi Speer 518-783-2450

Coaching Staff Contact Office PhoneBaseball Tony Rossi 518-786-5044Men’s Basketball Jimmy Patsos 518-783-2543Women’s Basketball Ali Jaques 518-783-2484Cross Country (Men’s and Women’s) John Kenworthy 518-786-5064Field Hockey Kara Zappone 518-783-2939Men’s Golf Tom Wronowski 518-782-6106Women’s Golf David Wronowski 518-782-6106Men’s Lacrosse John Svec 518-786-5039Women’s Lacrosse TBA 518-786-5043Men’s Soccer Cesar Markovic 518-786-5042Women’s Soccer Steve Karbowski 518-782-6826Softball Bill Lajeunesse 518-783-2916Women’s Swimming and Diving Paul Kueterman 518-782-6108Water Polo Ellen Howe 518-782-6773Men’s Tennis Jim Serbalik 518-783-2368Women’s Tennis Andy Christodoulou 518-782-6454Volleyball Garvey Pierre 518-786-5041Strength and Conditioning Dan Taylor 518-783-2548

Sports Medicine Staff Contact Office PhoneHead Trainer Greg Dashnaw 518-783-2544Assistant Trainer Jill Guarino 518-783-2544Assistant Trainer Brian McElroy 518-783-2544Assistant Trainer Danielle Stabinski 518-783-2544

Student Athlete Services Contact Office PhoneDirector of Student Athlete Engagement Lori Jancik 518-782-6680Academic Advisor for Student Athletes Gail Picillo 518-783-2993S.A.IN.T.S. Lifeskills Coordinator Ellen Howe 518-782-6773

Marcelle Athletic Complex Staff Contact Office PhoneFacilities Assistant Kara Zappone 518-783-2939Facilities Assistant TBD 518-782-6461Intramural/Rec Sports Coordinator TBD 518-786-5064Aquatics Coordinator/Swimming & Diving Paul Kueterman 518-782-6108

Athletic Complex Front Desk 518-786-5032

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Dear Student Athlete:

Welcome to Siena Athletics!

Our goal is to provide you with a positive environment in which you can excel athletically and academically.

Being an athlete, you know that structure is a necessary part of success.

It may seem that this student athlete handbook inundates you with numerous rules and regulations.

Its purpose is to help you find direction in answering questions about college procedures and policy.

Please hold on to this handbook (it can be accessed through the athletics web site as well; www.SienaSaints.com).

It covers areas in which you will have questions during the academic year.

We look forward to working with you and assisting you in developing athletically, socially, and academically.

Please take advantage of the services we offer and ask questions of coaches, administrators and staff.

Our support staff is here to assist you, but not here to do it for you.

Participating in varsity athletics and succeeding academically is a challenge.

It will take discipline, focus and structure.

Sincerely,

Go Saints,

John D’Argenio

Director of Athletics

Athletic Department515 Loudon Road, Loudonville, N.Y. 12211-1462

Phone: 518-783-2551Fax: 518-783-2992

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Contents

Siena College Athletic Department Directory . . . . . . . . . . IFC

Siena College Academic Calendar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

A Word from the Vice President for Student Affairs . . . . . . 4

Athletic Department Mission Statement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

Code of Conduct. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7Unsportsmanlike Behavior Hazing PolicyMAAC Sportsmanship Statement GamblingDrug and Alcohol Policy

Academic Policies and Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-12NCAA Academic Eligibility RegulationsSatisfactory ProgressInstitutional Standards for Athletic EligibilityTransfersAcademic SuspensionInsufficient GPAInsufficient CreditsAcademic IntegrityClass Attendance PoliciesMissed Class PolicyScheduling Athletic EventsChange of MajorMid-Semester Progress ReportsCalculating GPA

Support Services for Athletes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13-16Study Hall Requirements Counseling Center Tutor Program NewsletterLaptop Sign Out Student Athlete Advisory CouncilAcademic Advisor Student Athlete MentorsStudent Athlete Engagement S.A.IN.T.S. Cup ProgramThe Writing Center

Key Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17Certified Learning Disabled Grade Point IndexIncomplete Grades Full-time StudentRepeating a Course MajorDrop and Add Quality HoursPass/Fail Description Quality PointsAcademic Probation

Academic Tips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17Work SmarterHow to Improve Study Skills

NCAA Rules Summary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18Practice and Playing SeasonsDuring the SummerParticipation in Outside Competition

NCAA Rules Regarding Extra Benefits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19-20Involvement with BoostersComplimentary AdmissionsInvolvement in Promotional Activities

Athletic Department Policies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20-22Team TravelEquipment/Uniform Issuance and ReturnHousing Meal Plans Athletic Ticket PolicyFull Grant Student Athlete Textbook Purchasing and Return PolicyDepartment Policy on Transfer RequestsHosting RecruitsStudent Athlete Exit InterviewsMarcelle Athletic Complex Policies

Scholarships and Financial Aid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23-25Financial Aid Athletic Grant-in-AidsRenewals and NonrenewalsTermination, Reduction or NonrenewalSummer Athletic Aid Fifth-Year Athletic AidRequest to Study Abroad (effective 2009-10)NCAA Student Athlete Opportunity Fund Application ProcessNCAA Special Assistance FundStudent Athlete Employment

Sports Medicine. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26-35Policies and Procedures of Training RoomEmergency Medical TreatmentTraining Room Daily GuidelinesIntercollegiate Athletics Insurance Policies and ProceduresSiena College Student Athlete Insurance ProtocolNCAA Catastrophic Injury Insurance ProgramHIPAA StatementUse of Banned Substances/NCAA Drug TestingFacts About Banned Drugs and Supplements2013-14 NCAA Banned DrugsNCAA Drug-Testing Consent FormSiena College Drug-Testing & Substance-Abuse AwarenessProgram Policy

Tobacco Ban

Athletic Communications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35-36PublicityMedia Guidelines and Interview Tips

Appendix A: Sample Absence Letter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

Appendix B: NCAA Regulations – Division I . . . . . . . . . 38-50

Siena Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52-53

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Siena College Academic Calendar

September 20132 Labor Day

3 First day of classes

9 Last day to add a course

Last day to change from credit to audit

October 201314 Columbus Day (NOT a Siena holiday)

17 Mid-semester grades due

18 President’s Holiday (no classes)

November 20131 Last day to drop with a ‘W’ grade

Last day to exercise pass/fail option

25 Last day to drop with ‘WP’ or ‘WF’ grade

27-29 Thanksgiving Recess (no classes)

December 20139 Last day of classes

10 Reading Day

12-14, 16-17 Final Exams

January 201420 Martin Luther King Day

21 First day of classes

27 Last day to complete ‘I’ grades from Fallsemester

Last day to add a course

Last day to change from credit to audit

February 201417 Presidents’ Day (NOT a Siena holiday)

March 20147 Mid-semester grades due

10-14 Spring Break

21 Last day to drop with a ‘W’ grade

Last day to exercise pass/fail option

April 201417-18, 21 Easter Break (no classes)

22 Last day to drop with ‘WP’ or ‘WF’ grade

May 20145 Last day of classes

6 Reading Day

7-10, 12-13 Final Exams

18 Commencement

19 Summer Sessions 1, 3, and 4 begin

26 Memorial Day (no classes)

June 201413 Last day to complete ‘I’ grades from Spring

semester

Summer Session 1 final exams

16 Summer Session 2 begins

27 Summer Session 3 final exams

July 20144 Independence Day (no classes)

11 Summer Session 2 and 4 final exams

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August 2013

Dear Siena Student Athlete:

Welcome to the 2013-14 academic year and athletic season!

The purpose of this letter is to inform you of the College’s position with regard to hazing and “initiation” activities prior to the beginningof pre-season. While team unity and team bonding are important for a team’s success, the way this is achieved is critical.

Siena has implemented a Hazing Policy that you should become thoroughly familiar with. The policy clearly outlines behaviors and activities that are prohibited, and which are applicable to members of an athletic team. NY State Penal Law prohibits hazing. In addition,Siena College policy prohibits any action or situation, whether on oroff College premises, created by an individual, group, organization, orathletic team which intentionally or unintentionally produces mentalor physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, ridicule or in anyway demeans another person.

Some examples of behavior that are unacceptable as team activities or initiations include, but are not limited to the following: forced consumption of alcohol; paddling in any form; engaging in publicstunts; morally degrading or humiliating games; wearing signs withinappropriate language/slogans; singing lewd songs; shaving of heads;or any activities inconsistent with the law and/or College policies. Inaddition, initiations, however explained, or any activities that imply,force, encourage, condone or allow students to misuse alcohol or otherdrugs, or violate the law, or commit unethical, immoral or inappropriatebehavior are prohibited as well.

With hazing and initiations, as with all things, teams share responsibility.How ever, captains and coaches should set the standard since they areoften concerned with the spirit of the team and welfare of student athletes. New players should be able to look to returning players asrole models and for support.

I encourage all players to make the welcome of new players to theirteams free from harassing and humiliating activities, abuse and excessivealcohol consumption. Please become familiar with the particulars of theHazing Policy which is enclosed in this manual and in the student hand-book Siena Life. If there are any questions about activities that may beunacceptable, or to report incidents, contact John D’Argenio, Director of Athletics or one of the College officials listed in the Hazing Policy.

Have a great season, both in competition and in the classroom!

Sincerely,

Maryellen Gilroy, Ed.D.Vice President for Student Affairs

Siena CollegeAthletic DepartmentMission Statement

MissionThe Athletic Department will provide adynamic and progressive environment inwhich members of the Siena community cantake part in competitive and or recreationalopportunities while providing its student athletes with a positive environment in whichto learn, live, compete and practice.

Core Values1. Community

The Athletic Department will provide opportu-nities in which student athletes can share in theFranciscan values of Siena through its Saints in the Community program. The department recognizes the unique place Siena athleticsholds in the Capital Region and that it has aresponsibility to share its major varsity sportsteams with the community.

2. Equity

Athletics will prioritize the competitiveopportunities it offers the student athletes in a fair manner. The department will providerecreational and intramural opportunities to all members of the community who desireto participate.

3. Integrity

The Athletic Department will win the rightway. Success achieved by taking short cuts oroperating outside prescribed requirements—NCAA, Conference, College policy—is a hollowsuccess. As a staff, our actions and attitude willserve as examples to our students and teachthem that any success worth having shouldbe done the right way.

4. Student Centered

The department’s services and efforts will be centered on the student athletes and willassist them in developing to their full academic,athletic and social potential. Student athleteswill be given the opportunity to develop skillssuch as leadership, teamwork, decision-makingand organization. We will educate studentathletes to the importance of respect, responsibility, accountability and compassion.Our recreational programs will provide thestudent community a means whereby theirsocial development will continue beyond theclassroom experiences.

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Code of Conduct

The Athletic Department emphasizes that all student athletesdemonstrate appropriate behavior and adherence to all Collegepolicies whether traveling to and from competition, or hostingrecruits during visits to Siena’s campus.

It is a privilege to represent Siena College as a student athlete.Student athletes are expected to represent themselves, theirfamilies, and teammates in a favorable manner. Therefore, it isimportant to keep in mind how you represent yourself if post-ing information on websites such as Facebook and Twitter.Perceptions of inappropriate behavior which may violateCollege or department policies will be investigated.

Every student athlete is expected to abide by the College’s Codeof Conduct, as defined in Siena Life. (As a student athlete, youwill be expected to demonstrate appropriate behavior accord-ing to the conference’s code for sportsmanlike conduct as well.)

For your own safety, please keep the following recommendationsin mind as you participate in social networking websites:

a) Set your security settings to that only your friends can viewyour profile.

b) You should not post your email, home address, local address,telephone number(s), or other personal information, as itcould lead to unwanted attention, stalking, identity theft, etc.

c) Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site – manypeople are looking to take advantage of student athletes orto seek connection with student athletes.

d) Consider how the above behaviors can be reflected in allFacebook or Twitter applications.

If you are ever in doubt of the appropriateness of your onlinepublic material, consider whether it upholds and positivelyreflects your own values and ethics as well as the athleticsdepartment and the College’s. Remember to always present apositive image and don’t do anything to embarrass yourself,the team, your family, or the College.

The Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference initiates, stimulates,organizes, enhances and improves intercollegiate athleticcompetition between member institutions and thereby promotes and develops educational leadership, physical fitness and sportsmanship.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE BEHAVIOR• Any arrest for unlawful conduct;

• Physical and/or verbal abuse of officials, coaches, opponents,or spectators;

• Throwing or kicking of objects;

• Taunting;

• Use of obscene or otherwise inappropriate language or gestures;

• Participating in any action which violates the generally recognized ethical standards of intercollegiate athletics, theCollege or the community.

Sportsmanship Statement The Constitution of the MAAC within its mission statementcites as a purpose of the Conference that its members shallparticipate in its athletics program on the basis of mutual trustand confidence and based upon high standards of scholarshipand sportsmanship.

Understanding that realization of those goals requires thatopponents respect each other and admire earnest effort madefairly in the pursuit of victory, the Conference requires ethicalconduct worthy of the educational stature and the standardsof its member institutions. MAAC student athletes areexpected to treat opponents with respect.

Please be aware that significant penalties will be applied forfighting, taunting an opponent, or other unethical conduct.

Athletic Department Policy on Alcohol and Drug Use

STATEMENTThe Siena College Athletic Department expects student athletesto adhere to a set of standards that positively represent theAthletic Department and the College. There exists a responsi-bility on the part of the student athlete to strive for excellencein all they do as students, athletes and members of the SienaCollege community. In the quest for excellence, both on andoff the playing field, it is important for student athletes tomake responsible choices and realize the long-term athletic,academic, and health benefits of choosing not to drink, and/ordrink responsibility, or use drugs. The welfare of its studentathletes is a major concern of the Athletic Department.

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UNACCEPTABLE BEHAVIOR/ACTIONS• Drinking and driving a motor vehicle.

• Use of alcohol before, during or after department (or conference)sponsored athletic events either at home or during road trips.

• Use of alcohol that interferes with academic success, athleticperformance, personal relationships, or that leads to financialor legal problems.

• Irresponsible use and/or being intoxicated in a public place.

• Drinking in Siena College Athletic Department issued gear.

• Drinking with recruits.

• Violations of the College’s Alcohol and Drug Policy.

• Violations of federal, state and/or local laws.

• Furnishing or distributing alcohol to minors.

• Behavior that is detrimental to the team, Athletic Department,or College.

• Use or possession of illegal drugs and/or abuse of legal drugs.

CONSEQUENCESSiena College students are responsible for abiding by local,state, and federal law. Furthermore, as members of the SienaCollege community, student athletes are responsible foradhering to the Siena College Alcohol & Drug Policy. Sanctionsmay occur for violations of the foregoing.

In addition, student athletes may be subject to athleticdepartment sanctions separately or concurrently with anylegal or other College sanctions as a result of a violation of theAthletic Department’s policy on alcohol and drug use. StudentAffairs may be contacted for possible code of conduct violationsand the Athletic Department will cooperate with the investiga-tion. With respect to the athletic department policy, therespective head coach, sport administrator and/or Director ofAthletics will review each case. The Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee will then determine if a violation of the athleticdepartment policy has occurred and if so may impose anappropriate sanction. Possible sanctions, depending upon thenature or severity of the violation, may range from a warningto dismissal from the athletic program and/or forfeiture of

athletic aid. Alcohol-related incidents accumulate over a student athlete’s term of eligibility with sanctions ultimatelybecoming more severe.

Furthermore, if the student athlete is found responsible for:

Driving under the influence

Drunken and disorderly conduct

Public intoxication

Minor in possession

Use or possession of illegal drugs and/or abuse of legal drugs,

Or accepts responsibility for any other charge where legalintoxication is determined, one or more of the following sanctions may be imposed:

• Suspension – temporary, indefinite or permanent suspensionof the student athlete from further participation (scheduledteam practice and competition) in all intercollegiate athletics.

• Cancellation of all or part of any athletic aid awarded to student athlete.

• Community service deemed appropriate by the AthleticAdministration.

• Alcohol/drug counseling.

The sanctions described in this policy are not intended to beall-inclusive and other sanctions may be imposed.

Student athletes are required to sign a statement each year toconfirm their understanding of and responsibility to adhere tothe Athletic Department’s policy if they are to be participantsin the intercollegiate athletic program at Siena College.

It is further understood that coaches may have team policiesthat further define unacceptable behavior as it relates to alcohol consumption. A student athlete may be subject toadditional requirements and expectations of a team alcoholpolicy as defined by the Head Coach and approved by theDirector of Athletics. Team rules must be clearly communicatedin writing to all participants at the start of each school year.

Please refer to the Sports Medicine section for information onSiena College’s Drug Testing Policy.

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Hazing PolicyNew York State Law and Siena College policy prohibit hazing.New York State Penal Law provides as follows:

120.16 Hazing in the first degree. A person is guilty of hazing inthe first degree when in the course of another person’s initiationinto or affiliation with any organization, he intentionally orrecklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantial riskof physical injury to such other person or a third person andthereby causes such injury.

Hazing in the first degree is a Class A misdemeanor. (Note:Punishable by up to one (1) year imprisonment, or fine up to$1,000 or both).

120.17 Hazing in the second degree. A person is guilty of hazingin the second degree when in the course of another person’sinitiation or affiliation with any organization, he intentionallyor recklessly engages in conduct which creates a substantialrisk of physical injury to such other person or a third person.

Hazing in the second degree is a violation. (Note: Punishableby up to 15 days imprisonment, or fine up to $250.00 or both).

In addition, Siena College considers hazing as any action or situation created by an individual, group, organization, or athletic team intentionally or unintentionally, whether on oroff College premises, to produce mental or physical discomfort,embarrassment, harassment, ridicule, or in any way demeanthe dignity of another human being. Examples may include,but are not limited to the following: forced consumption ofalcohol; paddling in any form; creation of excess fatigue; “kidnapping”; physical and/or psychological shock; engaging inpublic stunts, morally degrading or humiliating games; wear-ing signs with inappropriate language/slogans; singing lewdsongs; shaving of heads; or any other activities or behaviorinconsistent with the law and/or College policies.

No individual or group may haze another at any time includinginitiation into or the affiliation with any organization, group, orathletic team. Initiations, however explained, or activities thatimply, force, encourage, condone or allow students to misuse alcohol or other drugs, or violate the law, or commit unethical,immoral or inappropriate behavior are forbidden. Hazing of anykind is strictly prohibited by the College and subject to sanction.

All members of the College community are expected to reportto College officials hazing activity of any kind of which theyhave knowledge or information. Reports of hazing can bemade to: the Vice President, the Vice President for StudentAffairs, the Dean of Students, the Director of Security, theDirec tor of Athletics, or the Director of Campus Programs andActivities. Upon investigation, the matter may be referred tothe Vice President for Student Affairs for adjudication throughthe College’s established disciplinary process. In addition, thematter may be referred to outside law enforcement agencies.Members, prospective members or participants who fail toreport an act or contemplated act of hazing of which they

have knowledge or information may also be found in violationof this policy. The planning or preparation to engage in hazingactivity is also a violation of this policy.

If an individual student faces a charge of violating this policy, thematter will be referred to the College’s disciplinary proceduresand, if found responsible, s/he will be subject to the full rangeof sanctions, which may include expulsion from the College. Ifa College-recognized organization (e.g., a club) faces a chargeof violating this policy, it will be charged as an individual wouldbe under such procedures, and sanctions, to be determined atthe discretion of the College, which may include the loss orsuspension of college recognition and/or re-recognition oncertain conditions, in addition to the charges and sanctionsdirected to individual members. If members of a College-sponsored activity or program (e.g., an athletic team) arecharged and found responsible for violating this policy throughthe student disciplinary procedures, the College will imposeappropriate sanctions, which may include, but are not limited to,the full range of student status sanctions (including expulsion),removal or suspension from the program, forfeiture of gamesor limitation of activities, and/or other sanctions as deemedappropriate by the College.

It is the right of every Siena student to be free from the humil-iation and danger of hazing. Hazing does not build strongorganizations, teams, groups, or tradition. Rather, it is a meansof abuse and humiliation. If you have concerns or complaintsabout hazing, or questions about this policy, you should contactthe Vice President, the Vice President for Student Affairs, Deanof Students, Director of Security, Director of Athletics, orDirector of Campus Programs and Activities immediately.

GamblingThe NCAA prohibits any involvement by prospective or currentlyenrolled student athletes in any type of gambling activities thatinvolve intercollegiate or professional sports. Those found inviolation will lose their eligibility for intercollegiate athleticssubject to an appeal for restoration. Any of the following activities may render a student athlete ineligible:

• providing any information (ie: reports concerning teammorale, game plans and injuries of team members) to anyindividual who could assist anyone involved in organizedgambling activities;

• making a bet on any intercollegiate team;

• accepting a bet or bribe on, or agreeing to throw, fix, or illegallyinfluence the outcome of an intercollegiate contest;

• failing to report any bribe or offer, or any knowledge of any attempt to throw or fix a game or to illegally influence its outcome;

• participating in any gambling activity that involves inter-collegiate or professional athletics, through a bookmaker, a parlay card or any other method employed by organizedgambling.

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NCAA ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY REGULATIONSThe NCAA has developed rules and regulations for all inter-collegiate athletic teams and athletes. The intent of these regu-lations is to ensure that college athletics remains as amateurcompetition and that student athletes do not sacrifice educa-tion for athletics. We have summarized the regulations whichyou should keep in mind at all times.

SATISFACTORY PROGRESSAll student athletes must meet the following requirements inorder to participate in regular-season competition:

• Register for a minimum of 12 credit hours of academic workeach semester in which the sport season occurs. All coursesmust be taken for a letter grade or pass/fail.

Note: To be eligible to practice, you must be enrolled in a minimum of 12 credits at all times except during the first fivedays of classes.

Following either the first academic year, or after one season ofeligibility has been used in a sport, then you must:

• Satisfactorily complete at least six credits in a semester to beeligible for the next semester, satisfactorily complete at least18 credits during the academic year, and satisfactorily completeat least 24 credits before the start of the next academic year.

• Declare a specific major by the start of the third year (or fifthsemester) of enrollment.

• The courses you take must lead toward a degree in yourdeclared major. If the declared major is changed after thesedeadlines, the change must be documented by the academicofficial in order to comply with NCAA requirements.

• If you are entering your second year of collegiate enrollment,you must have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of atleast 1.8 and have successfully completed 24 credits.

• If you are entering your third year of collegiate enrollment,you must have a cumulative GPA of at least 1.9. For subsequentyears you need to have at least a 2.0.

• NCAA regulations (Bylaw 14.4.3.2) require that student athletesfirst enrolling in college after August 1, 2003 must complete apercentage of therequirements fortheir degree pro-gram. The chart atright specifies therequired percent-ages and creditsneeded for second,third, fourth, andfifth-year studentathletes.

TRANSFERSTransfer student athletes are expected to meet the criteria forthe semester of collegiate enrollment they are entering.

ACADEMIC SUSPENSIONAt any time while a student athlete is on academic probation,the Vice-President of Academic Affairs has the right to declarethat student athlete ineligible for intercollegiate athletic participation and possible dismissal from the College. If a student athlete is declared academically ineligible, his/her athletic eligibility may be restored upon meeting the academiccriteria required for the subsequent semester.

INSUFFICIENT GPAIf a student athlete’s cumulative grade point average is below theinstitutional and/or NCAA standard, he/she may not travel orcompete in an intercollegiate sport. A student athlete’s eligibilitywill be reevaluated each term. In order to improve his/her GPA,the student athlete must take courses at Siena College.

INSUFFICIENT CREDITSStudent athletes must successfully complete at least 24 creditseach academic year in order to be eligible for intercollegiatecompetition. If a student athlete does not meet the creditrequirements, courses may be taken either at Siena or trans-ferred from another institution (usually during the summer) inorder to meet satisfactory progress requirements. Rememberto consult with your division or school’s office to receiveapproval to take courses at another institution.

**All academic issues must be discussed with the AthleticDepartment Academic Advisor or Associate Athletic Director/Compliance to ensure all NCAA regulations are adhered to.

ACADEMIC INTEGRITYThe concept of academic integrity is basic to the principles ofSiena College and its strong Franciscan tradition. The Collegeis dedicated to fostering sound moral growth, and in such anenvironment, academic dishonesty cannot be tolerated. Such

an act is a violation of the bonds of mutual trustand respect on which the Siena community isbuilt. Students who commit such acts exposethemselves to punishments as severe as dishonor-able dismissal.

Plagiarism is among the more serious, andincreasingly common, acts of academic dishonesty.Read and understand Siena College’s definitionand position on plagiarism. This link is a goodplace to start: www.siena.edu/pages/2667.asp. Amore complete definition with examples can befound at www.siena.edu/pages/1424.asp. You are

Academic Policies and Procedures

Percent of Degree RequirementsIn effect for all student athletes whose first year of full-time collegiate enrollment occurred on or after August 1, 2003

Academic Year % of 120 CreditsFirst Year --- ---Second Year 20% 24Third Year 40% 48Fourth Year 60% 72Fifth Year 80% 96

Courses for area requirements, required courses in major,and electives all count toward meeting this requirement.

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plagiarizing someone’s work if you quote or use informationor material without giving proper credit. Be aware that youmay be held responsible if a friend borrows an old paper orquiz and the friend attempts to pass it off as his/her originalwork. Pleading ignorance is not a valid excuse. Students havefailed courses and been dishonorably dismissed from SienaCollege in recent years.

CLASS ATTENDANCEAttending class is the best way to maximize your chances for academic success at Siena. The classroom provides muchof the material which will form the basis for projects, assign-ments and examinations. Attendance is taken in most courses,and many in which classroom participation figures heavily in the grading. There are also instances in which instructorsconsider attendance and participation in order to evaluate aborderline performance.

In the event that you will miss class due to an athletic competi-tion, it is YOUR responsibility to get a letter of notification fromthe Athletic Department’s Academic Advisor and present it toyour instructor PRIOR to the date of your absence. *Do not planon counting an athletic competition as an excused absence.

Siena College Class Attendance Policies

Faculty Attendance Policies

1. Faculty members establish their own class attendance policiesand must provide these policies to students at the beginningof the semester (in writing and/or posted on a public website).This policy should also be verbally communicated duringthe first class (and laboratory) session of the semester(within the drop/add period).

For all courses that have any required activities scheduledoutside of class time, faculty must include the requiredactivities with their attendance policy. In addition, studentsmust be given sufficient advance notice, at least four weeksin advance of the date and time of these activities.

For all courses that will conduct exams outside of class time,faculty must include with their attendance policy the timeand the day (e.g., Wednesdays 6-8 p.m.) at which the examswill be administered.

Faculty members must provide the attendance policy for eachof their next semester’s classes (and labs) to their departmentheads within 48 hours of the final submission of the nextsemester’s schedule. The academic deans must post theseattendance polices no later than the date that the schedule forthe next semester is made available on-line to students.

2. It is each faculty member’s discretion as to whether missingclass for any purpose (bereavement, health/medical, personalbusiness, varsity intercollegiate athletic contest, or any otheractivity) is an excusable absence. Faculty should establishattendance policies that treat all students equally. If a facultymember excuses a student for participation in any otherCollege-sponsored activity, the faculty member must alsoexcuse a student for participation in a College-sponsoredvarsity athletic contest.

3. At the beginning of the semester, faculty must review thescheduled College-sponsored activities for each student in her/his class (that brings these activities to the facultymember’s attention) and must determine how the absenceswill be handled. If the absences will affect a student’s gradeand/or the student’s ability to successfully complete the courserequirements, the student must be informed immediately(as early as is possible within the drop/add period).

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4. Class attendance policies are not in effect during a vacationperiod (vacations as listed in the Academic Calendar) andbetween terms when classes are not in session, unless attendance at a class-related activity is specified by the faculty member in the course syllabus at the beginning ofthe semester.

5. In conformance with College policy, when course exams areheld outside of class time, if a student is absent due to aconflict with a scheduled contest, the student is “excused”and subject to the faculty member’s policy regardingexcused absence from an examination period.

6. It is often necessary to reschedule contests after the semesterhas commenced (often due to weather-related cancellations).The Athletic Department and student athletes should informfaculty of these changes in schedule as soon as is possible.Faculty should be flexible and reasonable in hand ling thesechanges. For these cases, the stated attendance policy is ineffect and the faculty member should as soon as is possibleinform a student if the changes in schedule will affect thestudent’s grade and/or the student’s ability to successfullycomplete the course requirements.

7. If a post-season athletic contest, scheduled by the MAAC orthe NCAA, conflicts with a course examination, an affectedstudent is excused from the examination and the facultymember will provide a make-up exam (or other appropriateaccommodation) at another time within the examinationperiod or no later than 24 hours after the last day of theexamination period.

8. The VPAA, Deans, and Registrar should attempt to make upthe final examination schedule as early as possible. The earliest date would most likely be at the end of the last“add” date. Also, this would most likely involve changes inmany practices, including the deadline for faculty requestsfor “examination exceptions/special-scheduling.”

Student Athlete Missed Class Policy1. Student athletes will not miss any regularly-scheduledclasses or laboratory sessions for any team meeting, practice,non-official scrimmage, or other sports-related activitiesother than scheduled intercollegiate competitions and officialscrimmages. Note: an official scrimmage or exhibition gameis an event that is a non-league contest that is required bythe MAAC or the NCAA (these organizations sometimesrequire a “minimum” number of scheduled competitions).

2. Faculty members establish their own class attendance policies and must provide these policies to students at the beginning of the semester. It is each faculty member’sdiscretion as to whether missing class for an athletic contestis an excusable absence. At the beginning of the semester,student athletes must discuss with each faculty member theimpact that missing classes for scheduled athletic contestswill have on their course grade and on successfully meetingthe course requirements. It is essential that each student

acquaint him/herself at the beginning of each semester withthe attendance policies of each instructor/course.

3. The Director of Athletics will provide to the Faculty AthleticsRepresentative and the Academic Vice President, at leastone month prior to the start of a sport’s season and no laterthan one week prior to the start of each semester/session, alisting of all competition in that sport which will necessitatestudent athletes being absent from class. The listing willinclude the time and date of competition, destination, estimated departure time, travel time, game time, and estimated return time. The Faculty Athletics Representativeor the Academic Vice President may request that modifica-tions to the travel plans be made. This listing may be pro-vided in hardcopy but must be posted on a website. Thiswebsite listing will be available for view by all faculty andstudents and will be accessible only to people with a SienaUsername and Password.

4. At the beginning of each semester/session, student athletesmust provide each of their faculty a copy of their team’s listing(item 3, above). The student athlete must mark (highlight)the contests that conflict with class attendance.

5. The following scheduling policies do not assure that anabsence is excused. As stated above, faculty members set their own attendance policies and it is each faculty’sdiscretion as to whether missing a class for an athleticevent is an excusable absence.

• For home competition, student athletes shall not missclasses (or class-sponsored activities) prior to two hoursbefore the scheduled competition time.

• For away competition with same-day travel, student athletesshall not miss any classes (or class-sponsored activities)prior to 30 minutes before the scheduled time of departure.

• For away competition with overnight travel, no team shalldepart more than 30 hours prior to the time of competition(typically, this results in no practice at the site of competi-tion the day before the contest). An exception can bemade if there is no available flight within 30 hours prior tothe time of competition.

6. Student athletes will be responsible for submitting allassignments on time (or before leaving for an event), andadvance arrangements will be initiated by the student athlete for any tests/quizzes that will be missed. As notedabove, the student is subject to each faculty member’sattendance policy.

7. Coaches will not penalize student athletes for missingpractices or games due to conflicts with regularly-scheduledclasses for which student athletes are enrolled.

8. No competition, except MAAC or NCAA scheduled post-season competition, will be scheduled on days when finalexaminations are scheduled unless prior approval hasbeen received from the Academic Vice President.

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9a. When MAAC or NCAA scheduled post-season competitionconflicts with the exam schedule, an affected student isexcused from the examination and the faculty member willprovide a make-up exam (or other appropriate accommoda-tion) at another time within 10 days of the contest. In situa-tions when the league is considering scheduling eventsduring a final examination period, Siena College shouldformally propose to the league that such conflicts be mini-mized through scheduling after the examination period.

9b. Any additional exceptions (to the above statementsregarding scheduling of contests, scheduling of travel, and notification of faculty) for tournaments and othercompetitions must be approved by the Faculty AthleticsRepresentative and the Academic Vice President. Each faculty member’s attendance policy is in effect and the student must immediately determine if these events willaffect her/ his grade and/or the ability to successfully complete the course requirements.

10. If a contest is rescheduled after the semester has commenced(often due to weather-related cancellations), the AthleticDepartment and student athletes should inform faculty ofthese changes in schedule as soon as is possible. Each facultymember’s attendance policy is in effect and the studentmust immediately determine if the changes in schedulewill affect her/his grade and/or the ability to successfullycomplete the course requirements. Note: see the exceptionslisted in 9.a. & 9.b.

11. Student athletes who believe that they have received alack of reasonable accommodations of the provisions ofthis missed class policy by a faculty member may immediatelysubmit a complaint to the faculty member’s departmental

chair. The “Internal Complaint System” is described in SienaLife Student Handbook. Normally, the student should firstdiscuss the matter with the faculty member.

12. Student athletes who believe that they have received alack of reasonable accommodation of the provisions of this missed class policy by a coach may immediately submita complaint to the Director of Athletics. The “InternalComplaint System” is described in Siena Life StudentHandbook. Normally, the student should first discuss thematter with the coach.

13. Students, faculty, or coaches who have questions about theapplication of these statements may contact the FacultyAthletics Representative or the office of Academic Affairs.

In complying with Siena’s efforts to minimize missed classesby student athletes, the following are considered whenscheduling athletic events:

1. Schedules for intercollegiate contests in each sport shouldbe constructed such as to limit the number of missed classsessions for each class/lab to: 6 per semester (for Mon/Wed/Fri)classes; 4 per semester for two-day-a-week courses; and, 2 per semester for once-a-week courses (this is approximately15% of course meetings).

2. Team trips during weekends and vacation/break periodsshould not begin prior to the last scheduled class before abreak; and, students should return from such trips in time toassure attendance at the resumption of classes.

3. Non-official exhibition games (and scrimmages) should notbe scheduled when classes are in session (i.e., they shouldnot conflict with a scheduled class) and are not consideredto be an “official varsity intercollegiate competition.” Note:an official scrimmage or exhibition game is an event that isa non-league contest that is required by the MAAC or theNCAA (these organizations sometime require a “minimum”number of scheduled competitions).

4. For travel to away games that involves leaving the daybefore the contest, meeting for departure must be scheduledafter every team member’s last (day-schedule) class/labora-tory session (except in the case of multiple games). This isalways possible with bus transportation. If this is impossibleto arrange in cases where air transportation must be used,the Academic Affairs Office must be informed at the timethat travel arrangements are made.

5. Teams should return to Siena as soon as possible following ascheduled contest. For bus travel, teams should return fromthe contest on the same evening as the contest. For air travel,teams should take the first available flight back to campus.

6. When it is necessary to reschedule contests after the semesterhas commenced (due to weather-related cancellations orother unavoidable circumstance), the Athletic Departmentand student athletes should inform faculty of these changesin schedule as soon as is possible and must be immediately

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posted on the Athletic-Schedule website. Only missed confer-ence games (or games required by the MAAC or the NCAA)should be rescheduled and care should be taken regardingincreasing the number of additional missed classes.

7. Coaches should be aware of the following:

• For home competition, student athletes shall not missclasses (or class-sponsored activities) prior to two hoursbefore the scheduled competition time.

• For away competition with same day travel, student athletesshall not miss any classes (or class-sponsored activities) priorto 30 minutes before the scheduled time of departure.

• For away competition with overnight travel, no team shalldepart more than 30 hours prior to the time of competition(typically, this results in no practice at the site of competitionthe day before the contest). An exception can be made ifthere is no available flight within 30 hours prior to the timeof competition.

It should always be noted that faculty members set their own attendance policies and it is each faculty’s discretion as to whether missing a class for an athletic event is an excusable absence.

CHANGE OF MAJORA student may change majors within the same division or schoolwith the permission of the division dean and by completing astudent permanent record change form in the Registrar’s office.In order to change divisions, the student must file a Change of Division form which requires an evaluation of the coursespreviously taken and approval of the dean of the division thestudent wishes to enter. Students who change major fields,whether within the same division or into another division, mustconform, whenever possible, to the major field requirementsthat are current at the time the student is entering the program.

MID-SEMESTER PROGRESS REPORTSThe Athletic Department Academic Advisor will monitor the progress of student athletes throughout the semester.Approximately six weeks into each semester a progress reportwill be sent to the faculty.

This report will ask for feedback in regard to test and quiz scores,preparation of assignments, attendance and class attitude andparticipation. Returned reports will be shared with the studentathlete and his/her coach. At this point, determination will bemade in terms of the academic approach needed for theremainder of the semester.

Actions could include: assignment of tutors, assignment tostudy hall, weekly reports from the faculty, or a combination ofthe above.

A follow-up report will be sent with three weeks remaining inthe semester to all student athletes who had a C- or lowerreported on the official mid-semester grades.

CALCULATING GPA

Quality Points (grade points x credit hours)

÷Hours Attempted

Point Scale

A = 4.0 C- = 1.7A- = 3.7 D+= 1.3B+ = 3.3 D = 1.0B = 3.0 D- = 0.7B- = 2.7 F = 0.0C+ = 2.3 U = 0.0C = 2.0

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STUDY HALL REQUIREMENTS1. Incoming freshmen, transfers and continuing students whohave a cumulative grade point average below a 2.5, whetheror not they are in season, are required to attend 6 hours ofstudy hall each week for the entire semester. With therespective sports admini strator’s approval, coaching staffreserves the right to enforce more stringent standards, butmust monitor their own study hall sessions for those studentathletes (the MAC Academic Center will be available duringthe evening hours).

a. Student athletes with senior status, as determined by academic affairs, will be exempt from study hall for theirfinal semester of eligibility if they have at least a 2.2cumulative grade point average, are within 21 hours ofgraduation, as determined by the first days of classes forthe semester and the Head Coach approves exemption.

b. Incoming Presidential Scholarship freshmen are requiredto attend 3 hours of study hall each week and will be

evaluated at mid-term. Upon review, these student athleteswill be exempt, remain in study hall for the required 3 hours or will be required to attend additional hours forthe remainder of the semester.

2. Student athletes required to attend study hall by administra-tion’s standards must complete their hours during the dayby attending study hall sessions in accordance with theSiena course schedule. The study hall schedule will operate ona Monday through Sunday basis. Final hours for the week willbe tallied and violations will be reported to the head coachand respective sports administrator on the following Monday.

3. Student athletes on academic probation (cumulative gradepoint average below a 2.0) are required to meet with theAthletic Academic Advisor on a weekly basis. Failure to doso will result in missing a practice selected by your coach.Students are responsible for scheduling a meeting with theacademic advisor at least one week in advance and arrivingprepared with all syllabi and current assignments.

Support Services for Athletes

STUDY HALL RULES (as of 2013-14): EACH RULE IS CENTRAL TO A CONSISTENT THEME…RESPECT. IT WILL BE GRANTED SO LONG AS IT IS GIVEN. IF YOU ARE ASKEDTO LEAVE STUDY HALL FOR VIOLATING ANY OF THE FOLLOWING RULES, YOUR HEAD COACH WILL BE NOTIFIED AND YOU WILLNOT EARN CREDIT FOR ANY OF THE HOURS YOU ATTENDED DURING THAT SITTING!

1. Be respectful of your fellow Saints! You are responsible forutilizing this time and will be asked to leave immediatelyand will not receive credit for the session you are attendingif you deny anyone else the opportunity to be productive.

2. You are responsible for swiping in and out of study hall andfulfilling a ½-hour sequence. If you swipe out prior to a completion of a ½-hour interval, you will not receive credit forthe ½ hour. You may stay a maximum of 3 consecutive hours.

3. No skipping out of study hall. If you are not present formore than 5 minutes and are swiped into study hall, youwill receive an instant violation.

4. There is no talking in study hall. This time is dedicated toschool work. Students will receive a warning for talking.Should a student continue to be disruptive, he/she will beasked to leave study hall and will receive no credit for thehours he/she completed that day.

5. Cell phones will be turned off in study hall and put away.Any cell phone found out in the open will be considered inuse regardless if you are using it at the time. You may notuse cell phones for listening to music. You will have ½ houradded to your study hall hours if a cell phone is out in theopen for any reason.

6. NO FOOD IS ALLOWED in the study hall lounges. Since thestudy hall system is set up so that you may choose the sessionsthat work best for your schedule, large lunches are not permitted. However, if you need a snack to hold you over,you may eat in my office to alleviate distraction. Coveredwater bottles are allowed in the study hall lounge.

7. No lying down on the couch. Lying down on the couch isan instant violation.

8. No feet on the furniture. At the end of each session, chairsneed to be left where they belong.

9. Head phones are permitted at a minimum level only. If you are asked to turn down your music more than once,you will not be allowed to use them for the remainder ofthe semester.

10. Study hall time is expected to be devoted solely towardcompletion of classroom assignments, preparation forexams and other academic related work. If you do notbring work, you may be asked to leave study hall.

11. Non-academic use of computers/laptops is NOT ALLOWED(this includes sites such as Facebook and YouTube). If youare caught playing games or on any other non-academic site

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on the computer, you will not be allowed to use the computerand ½ hour will be added to your time. Headphones are notpermitted for use on the computer. If you are caught usingthe computer for any other reason than schoolwork morethan two times over the course of the academic year, you willno longer be allowed to use the computer during study hall.

12. Assume you have to complete all of your study hall hoursevery week, even on short academic weeks. The AcademicAdvisor will inform you and the coaching staff otherwise ifthere is a reduction of hours during holiday weeks.

13. In-season athletes may complete study hall hours whiletraveling or away for competition if an arrangement hasbeen made between the Head Coach and AcademicAdvisor, prior to departure. It is the student athlete’sresponsibility to request this option. If a coach does notprovide documentation (provided by Academic Advisor),the student athlete will not earn credit.

14. The following activities may be counted toward your man-dated study hall hours each week, so long as you providedocumentation (Paw Passes are available in my office andonline via www.sienasaints.com under Siena AcademicSupport Services).

• Meeting with coach for academic purposes (maximum ½ hour per week)

• Writing Center session• Scheduled meeting with professor or office hour visit• Tutor session coordinated through Saints SupportingSaints or the Foy Tutorial Service

• Group tutor session coordinated by the respective academic department

• Mandated lecture/film/workshop• Attendance at a Student Support Service session sponsored by Academic Affairs

• Away competition – Coach supervision (maximum 2 hours per trip)

• Hammer Time (*only Greg Dashnaw, aka Hammer, can signoff on Paw Pass)

If the Paw Pass is not completed in full, is forged or is not submittedto the Athletic Academic Advisor prior to the end of the week youare requesting credit study hall hours, you will not earn credit. No exceptions.

Consequences for those who do not complete their required hours of study hall each week:(FYI - Consequences carry over from the fall to spring semester.)

1st Time: Action taken by coach (documented to the academicadvisor and sport administrator, copy put in student file).

2nd Time: Action taken by coach, documented to the abovesources, plus athlete owes 3 additional study hall hours thefollowing week. (If the respective hours plus 3 additionalhours are not completed in the following week, the studentwill be at his/her third offense.)

3rd Time: Athlete is suspended from the next regular-seasoncompetition.

4th Time: Athlete is suspended from all team activities for onecalendar week during his/her regular season. Regular seasonis defined as starting six days prior to the first official contest(scrimmage excluded).

5th Time or More: Athlete is suspended indefinitely from allteam functions.

Student athletes required to attend study hall must sign a copy of the contract at the beginning of the semester.

TUTOR PROGRAMSaints Supporting Saints, a tutorial service exclusively for studentathletes is set up so that Saints receive immediate attention intheir attempt to gain control of their academic success. Thisprogram, begun in the fall of 2004, has proven to be a veryeffective resource for our student athletes. The Athletic Depart -ment takes pride in supporting and promoting our own Saintswho excel in certain subjects by inviting them to utilize theirstrengths and help fellow Saints achieve their academic goals.

Tutor request and application forms are available online andare in the Athletic Academic Advisor’s office where they mustalso be submitted. Tutors are paid at both individual and grouprates. There is also a tutorial service coordinated through theSiena College Writing Center, located in Foy Hall, which is avail-able to all students who may obtain a tutor at no cost.

LAPTOP SIGN OUTFour laptops are available for student athletes to sign out forroad trips for intercollegiate athletics. Students must fill out therequired paperwork available in the Athletic Academic Advisor’soffice before signing out the equipment and must return thecomputers no later than 24 hours upon their return to campus.The student must return the computer in the presence of theAthletic Academic Advisor so s/he can check to see that allequipment is in the same condition as when it was borrowed.By signing out the laptop, students take full responsibility ofthe condition of the laptop and are responsible for fundingany necessary repairs.

ACADEMIC ADVISORIn cooperation with the coaches, the Student Athlete AcademicSupport Program regularly monitors the progress of studentathletes. Progress reports are sent to the faculty twice eachsemester, with additional correspondence for at-risk studentathletes. Information regarding grades, attendance, andprogress are shared with both the student athlete and thecoaches. In the event a problem is discovered, an individualconference is scheduled with the athlete to develop strategiesto alleviate the problem.

STUDENT ATHLETE ENGAGEMENTWorking with various campus services, Student AthleteEngagement actively promotes and develops academicenrichment opportunities for Siena’s student athletes, includinginternships, undergraduate research, independent study,study abroad, and original programming. Student AthleteEngagement disseminates student athlete-specific professionaldevelopment and post-graduate opportunities. Student AthleteEngagement also initiates program nominations and managesprocedures to enhance student athlete success. The AthleticDepart ment encourages resume writing and networking thatallow student athletes to take advantage of the skills theyacquire in the classroom and in the course of competition.

THE WRITING CENTERThe staff of the Writing Center offers free, one-on-one assistancewith any piece of writing to all students, faculty, and staff atSiena. The Center can help generate ideas, organize an argument,clarify a purpose, or provide an objective response to a draft.Writing Center staff members talk to all writers about anypiece of writing in progress.

COUNSELING CENTERStudent athletes encounter a variety of personal, social andacademic concerns. For those matters that cannot be adequatelyaddressed by a coach or athletics administrator, the studentathlete will be referred to Siena’s Counseling Center.

Counseling is conducted on a one-on-one basis by psycholo-gists and professional counselors. Group programs dealingwith study techniques or personal development are alsooffered. All sessions, either group or individual, are held in strictconfidence. Services are provided in personal counseling andpsychotherapy, career development, educational counseling,alcohol and substance abuse and consultation.

NEWSLETTERThe Athletic Department publishes a news letter for its studentathletes two times a year. This newsletter is designed to keepstudents abreast of changes in NCAA guidelines, along with

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information important to them during that particular semester.Outstanding student accomplishments are also recognized inthis publication.

STUDENT ATHLETE ADVISORY COUNCILThe Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a represen-tative body comprising two members from each team chosenby coaches or administrators. The purpose of SAAC is toencourage communication between student athletes and theAthletic Department by providing a forum for student athletesto discuss issues of concern regarding departmental policiesand procedures as well as MAAC and NCAA regulations (bothcurrent and proposed). SAAC also participates in communityservice and leadership projects and promotes partnershipswith other student groups on campus.

STUDENT ATHLETE MENTORSThe Student Athlete Mentors (SAM) committee comprises onementor per team chosen by coaches or administrators. SAMpromotes student athlete wellness and provides peer mentoringto all student athletes. Mentors encourage health and safetythrough a variety of workshops, speakers, and events through-out the year and are trained as peer educators through theBacchus Network.

S.A.IN.T.S. CUP PROGRAMWhat is S.A.IN.T.S.?

Supporting Athletes IN Their Success

S.A.IN.T.S. is the student services program designed to givestudent athletes experience in the five main components ofthe NCAA program. These areas include academic excellence,career development, personal development, community service,and athletic excellence.

What can I do?Each person can help earn credit for their team by participatingin program offerings. There are a number of different ways for ateam to stand out including: academic performance, communityservice events, supporting other teams in the department, andattending speakers and workshops throughout the year.

How can I learn more?A bulletin board near the swimming pool will be updatedthroughout the year with all of the various S.A.IN.T.S. events.Highlights will include teams and individuals that have goneabove and beyond for Siena and the greater community.Periodic emails will also be sent to student athletes aboutupcoming events.

Key Terms

Certified Learning DisabledStudent athletes with a certified learning disability will bereviewed on a case-by-case basis in regard to meeting thelisted criteria. In any regard, student athletes must meet NCAArequirements necessary for satisfactory academic progress.

Incomplete GradesUnfinished course work from prior semesters (I grades) do notcount in the calculation of academic classification. Studentsare given one month after the close of the semester to makeup the work, otherwise the I grade is converted to an F.

Repeating a CourseA student may repeat a course in which a grade of less than C- is earned. In this case, a student must indicate at the time ofregistration that the course is one which is being repeated. Bothgrades will appear on the student’s transcript, but the highergrade will be used in computing the cumulative grade pointaverage (GPA). Credit for the course will be given only once.

Drop and AddWithdrawal from a course requires the permission of the divisiondean. If a student withdraws from a course during the first twoweeks of classes, the course will not be reflected on the transcript.

After this, permission for withdrawal may be granted up untilthe date set in the Academic Calendar with the W grade assignedby the Registrar. After this date, up until two weeks before thelast day of classes, the Dean may permit withdrawal witheither the grade WP (Withdrawal Passing) or WF (WithdrawalFailing, not computed in the GPA) based upon the student’sacademic status in the course at the time of withdrawal.Withdrawal is not allowed during the last two weeks of classes.

A copy of all drop slips should be handed in to the AcademicAdvisor within two days of the official drop.

Pass/Fail DescriptionThe purpose of the pass/fail option is to encourage studentsto take courses in which they may have an interest, butbecause of grade considerations might be reluctant to do so.

Any full-time student may elect to take one course eachsemester to a maximum of eight courses on the pass/fail option.The student may not apply any courses in the major field, anyinternships or any courses used to fulfill core requirementsunder this option.

In order to receive a passing grade, P, the student must earn atleast a C- grade in the course. Otherwise, the failing grade, Z,will be assigned, and no credit will be received. A pass/fail gradedoes not affect a student’s quality point index. The original

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letter grade will not be revealed to the student or transmittedto another college.

The student must complete the appropriate form in the officeof the registrar by the published deadline and may not make achange after the deadline.

Academic ProbationA student’s academic record will be reviewed, not only on thebasis of grades for the current semester, but also on the basisof the entire record to date. The College reserves the right toassign a poor scholar to academic probation when he or she isbelow the minimum standards and may prohibit the athletefrom participating in intercollegiate athletics.

Grade Point IndexThis is the scholastic average for all courses completed. It iscomputed by taking the sum of quality points x credit hoursdivided by the number of credit hours attempted.

Full-Time StudentA matriculated full-time student is registered for at least 12credits during a regular semester. Student athletes engaging

in intercollegiate competition must be registered as full-timematriculated students. Pass/Fail courses count toward the 12credits for determination of full-time status; however, there areadditional guidelines in determining athletic eligibility.

MajorAn extensive program of study in a designated academic area. Once the major is chosen and recorded, it can only bechanged by following formal procedures for change. Consultwith the department chair and dean of the unit to which youare seeking admission. You should secure necessary formsfrom the Registrar’s office. A major must be declared by thebeginning of the fifth semester in order to remain eligible forathletic competition.

Quality HoursThe credit hours for courses receiving letter grades. Mostcourses will count in calculating quality hours.

Quality PointsRefers to the numerical value assigned to letter grades earnedin a course. For example, a grade of A in a three-credit courseearns 12 quality points (three hours x four points).

Academic Tips

Work Smarter1. Always study the most important subject first.

2. Make friends with several students in each of your classes.This will ensure that, when you are absent because of awaygames, you’ll have notes to borrow and friends to tell youwhat went on in class.

3. Get a high grade on the first exam by studying right fromthe first day of class. This high grade will help carry youthrough the balance of the semester when practicing andplaying consume a lot of your time.

4. Be a miser with daytime minutes. Don’t leave much for theevening. Go to bed early and get up early. An hour’s work inthe morning is the best way to start the day.

5. Take control of your life by making yourself do things whenthey are supposed to be done.

How to Improve Study SkillsAttend class regularly.• Sit as close to the instructor as possible so you can hearhim/her and see the blackboard closely

• Draw a two-inch margin to write key words and special notesto yourself

• Take notes in the area to the right of the margin and onlywrite on one side of the page

• Date and number each page

• Take down major points and skip lines between each major point

• Review your notes briefly before each class and as soon aspossible after each class

• Write down the teacher’s questions (they could be on a test)

• When you read the textbook:� read the introduction (you will know what to come isimportant)

� read the conclusion (you will know what was important)� read the questions at the end of the chapter� Be aggressive in your reading� Sit alertly� Pay particular attention to all charts, tables, graphs, etc. thatare included in the selection. They would not be included ifthey were not important

� Determine the meanings of all words which you do not know� Sit in the front of the classroom

For more academic tips, visit our website at SienaSaints.collegesports.com, click on “Student Services.”

NCAA Rules Summary

The NCAA has developed rules and regulations for all inter-collegiate athletic teams and athletes. The intent of these regulations is to ensure that college athletics remains as amateur competition and that student athletes do not sacrificeeducation for athletics. We have summarized the regulationswhich you should keep in mind at all times.

PRACTICE AND PLAYING SEASONThe length of playing seasons, when practices may begin andend for the season, when the first contest can be played andhow many hours and days per week student athletes may participate in athletic activities are all areas governed byNCAA and institutional rules.

The length of playing seasons are sport-specific. What activitiesand the number of hours that these activities can be conductedare dependent upon whether a sport is considered in-seasonor out-of-season.

When a sport is in-season, practice, competition, or other athletically-related activities (i.e., team meetings, watchinggame tapes, required workouts, etc.) may not exceed 20 hoursper week. It is also required that student athletes have one fullday off from athletically-related activities within a seven-dayperiod. Activities may not exceed four hours in one day whenclasses are in session. Coaches are required by NCAA rules to document hours during which required activities are conducted.

When a sport is out-of-season, the maximum number of hoursduring which student athletes may be required to work out iseight hours per week. In most sports, two hours (within theeight permitted) may be skill-related instruction per week.

It is also required that student athletes have two full days offfrom athletically-related activities within a seven-day period.

Please note that student athletes may not miss class to participate in workouts or other types of practice activities.

During the SummerStudent athletes may not be required to participate in weight-training and conditioning activities held under the supervisionof coaches or other departmental staff members during thesummer. Student athletes may voluntarily participate in strengthand conditioning activities conducted only by the department’sstrength and conditioning coach. Summer practices cannot beorganized or supervised by staff members. In individual sportsonly (tennis, cross country, golf, swimming and diving), a coachmay participate in individual workout sessions with studentathletes from the coach’s team if the request is initiated by thestudent athletes.

PARTICIPATION IN OUTSIDE COMPETITIONA student athlete in any sport who partici pates as a member ofany outside team in any noncollegiate, amateur competition

during the academic year becomes ineligible for intercollegiatecompetition in that sport for the remainder of the year and forthe next academic year.

Student athletes may compete on an outside team during anyofficial vacation period provided such competition is during aperiod outside of Siena’s declared playing season in that sport.The number of currently enrolled student athletes from anyone school participating on the same outside team is limitedby sport as follows:Swimming (5)*Baseball (4)Lacrosse (5)Cross Country (2)*Soccer (5)Field Hockey (5)Softball (4)Tennis (2)*Golf (2)*Volleyball (2)Basketball (2 in summer only)#

* In individual sports, there are no limits on the number of student athletes from the same school who may participateon the same outside team during the summer

# Basketball players may compete only in NCAA-sanctionedleagues or events (Permission to participate in leagues orevents must be granted in writing by the Head Coach,Compliance Officer, and Athletic Director.)

• Always check with the Compliance Office BEFORE participat-ing on any outside team.

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NCAA Rules Regarding Extra Benefits

An extra benefit is considered to be anything provided to astudent athlete which is not afforded to the general student bodyof the College. It should be assumed that the following benefitswould not be permissible to provide to student athletes:

• special discounts, payment arrangements or credit on pur-chases or services (ie: airline tickets, clothing, dry cleaning);

• arrangement for employment for family member or friends;

• free or reduced cost of professional services;

• use of telephone without charge for long-distance call;

• use of a departmental copy machine or fax machine;

• free or reduced rates for services from a business owned by adepartment staff member or booster (ie: movie tickets, dinneror other entertainment);

• cash or loan for money;

• guarantee of bond or bail;

• use of an automobile;

• loan or arrangements for a loan by departmental staff member by signing or cosigning for a loan;

• use of personal properties (ie: stereo, boat, apartment, summer home);

• birthday, Christmas or other holiday gifts;

Accepting impermissible benefits is a serious NCAA violation.Regardless of the circumstances or the motivation, you will beheld accountable for any such violations which may jeopardizeyour eligibility and/or institutional financial aid.

If you are unsure of what may constitute an extra benefit,please consult with your coach and/or the Associate AthleticDirector/Compliance.

INVOLVEMENT WITH BOOSTERSA “representative of athletics interest,” commonly referred to asan athletic booster, is a supporter of Siena’s athletic programs.A booster may be a member of one of the support groupsaffiliated with the College through Saints Alive!, and/or is orhas been involved in promoting Siena Athletics in any way.

Boosters are not permitted to do anything for prospective orenrolled student athletes without receiving authorization fromthe Athletic Department Administration. Certain types ofinvolvement may jeopardize the eligibility of the student athletes involved. It is a violation of NCAA rules for boosters tobe involved in the recruitment of prospects (i.e., making anytype of contact with prospective student athletes on or off-campus, via phone or mail).

It is permissible for a booster to invite a student athlete tohis/her home for a home-cooked meal if it is a special occasion(i.e., birthday, Thanksgiving). However, student athletes maynot be transported by the booster. Boosters may also invite ateam for dinner or to meet with a group of alumni in a citywhere the team is competing. Boosters may not pay for mealsat restaurants.

Boosters are permitted to employ currently enrolled studentathletes during the summer and/or official vacation periodsduring the academic year. All arrangements for such employ-ment must be made through the Athletic Department and allNCAA rules regarding employment of student athletes mustbe adhered to.

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COMPLIMENTARY ADMISSIONSAccording to NCAA regulations, each student athlete isallowed a maximum of four complimentary admissions perevent in his/her designated sport. All recipients of a studentathlete’s complimentary tickets will be admitted via a pass listheld at the ticket window on game day. Hard tickets are notissued to student athletes or their recipients. The appropriateteams are provided with a ticket sign-up sheet in advance ofeach scheduled contest for which admission is charged.

Student athletes may not receive payment for complimentaryadmissions nor exchange them for any item of value.

In the event of post-season competition, the Athletic Depart -ment reserves the right to determine complimentary ticketdistribution within the guidelines established by the institution,conference and the NCAA.

INVOLVEMENT IN PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIESStudent athletes may not be involved in any type of promo-tional activity or contest held in conjunction with a college’sintercollegiate competition in which a prize may be won.Participation would jeopardize the individual’s eligibility forintercollegiate competition unless:

• the prize won is through a random drawing in which allmembers of the general public or the student body are eligible to participate, and

• in the case of a Division I student athlete, the eligibility shallapply only in the sport in which the promotional contest oractivity occurs. For example, if a student athlete takes part ina free-throw shooting contest at halftime of a men’s orwomen’s basketball game, that student athlete would losehis/her eligibility in the sport of basketball.

If a student athlete’s appearance on television or radio is relatedin any way to athletic ability or achievement, the student athleteis not allowed to accept any payment for the appearance.Student athletes may not make any endorsement of any commercial product or service. The student athlete mayreceive only legitimate and normal expenses directly relatedto such an appearance provided it occurs within a 30-mileradius of the campus.

A student athlete’s name or picture may not be used by anathletic equipment or apparel company to publicize the factthat the college’s team uses its products.

If a student athlete’s name or picture appears on commercialitems (i.e., T-shirt, posters, playing cards, etc.) sold by an indi-vidual or agency without the student athlete’s knowledge orpermission, the student athlete (or the institution acting onbehalf of the student athlete) is required to take steps to stopsuch an activity in order to retain his/her eligibility for inter-collegiate athletics.

All promotional activities involving student athletes must becleared by the Compliance Office.

Athletic Department Policies

TEAM TRAVELTravel arrangements are made in accordance with College andathletic department guidelines. Normally, athletic teams travelby vans or chartered buses. Airline transportation is utilized forlong-distance travel or when participating in national events.

Prior to leaving for competition away from Siena, student athletes should reconfirm with their instructors that they willbe absent from class. It is important that student athletescommunicate with professors well in advance. It is the studentathlete’s responsibility to make up missed coursework.

While traveling with a team, the Athletic Department paysonly for transportation, room, and meals in compliance withNCAA rules. Room service, laundry (except for team uniforms),telephone calls, entertainment, etc. must be paid for by thestudent athlete.

All student athletes must travel to and from athletic competitionwith their team. Student athletes are not permitted to drivethemselves or ride with non-departmental staff members to

away contests. Exceptions may be made after contests are com-pleted if the student athlete is to travel with a parent or guardian.

At no time should unauthorized individuals drive College-ownedor leased vehicles.

EQUIPMENT/UNIFORM ISSUANCE AND RETURNStudent athletes are responsible for all equipment and uniformsissued to them as representatives of intercollegiate teams.

All practice and game uniforms supplied by the College are tobe worn only during official team practice and competition.Student athletes should wear articles of clothing with identify-ing college marks (ie: jackets, sweatshirts, T-shirts, hats) withthe thought in mind that they are representing Siena Collegeand their particular sport.

All College property must be returned at the completion ofthe season in good condition. Items damaged or not returnedwill be charged at replacement cost to the student athlete’sstudent account in the Business Affairs office.

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HOUSINGStudent athletes receiving a full athletic scholarship arerequired to live on-campus in either the dormitories or intownhouses. The townhouse apartments are generallyreserved for juniors and seniors. Returning resident studentsselect rooms each spring for the next academic year using acampus-wide lottery and priority point system. For furtherinformation on the priority point housing system, please referto the Siena Life handbook.

MEAL PLANSStudent athletes receiving a full athletic scholarship are pro-vided with a full meal plan. Full grant recipients residing in theresidence halls and townhouses receive a standard meal planand may eat meals at Serra Hall or the Sub Shop.

Students with meal plans must present their ID card as theyenter Serra Hall. ID cards and meal plans are nontransferable.Anyone other than the individual authorized by the Collegefound to be using an ID card/meal ticket will be sanctioned. Indi -viduals who allow their card to be used may also be sanctioned.

ATHLETIC TICKET POLICYMen’s Basketball: Regular-season game tickets are covered inyour college recreation fee. Tickets can be picked up at theAthletic Ticket Office located in the Marcelle Athletic Complex.

Guidelines: For individual game tickets, you are limited to oneticket per college ID. One student is allowed to present up tofive Siena ID cards for individual game purchases.

Transportation: Shuttle buses will be available for all gamesplayed at the Times Union Center. Buses leave from in front of Siena Hall one hour before tipoff and return immediatelyfollowing the game.

Women’s Basketball: Students are not required to purchasetickets to the women’s games held at the Alumni RecreationCenter. For all games played in the ARC, Siena students areadmitted free by showing their Siena ID at the door.

The ATHLETIC TICKET OFFICE is located in the lobby area ofthe Marcelle Athletic Complex.

FULL GRANT STUDENT ATHLETE TEXTBOOKPURCHASING AND RETURN POLICYAt the time of purchasing AND returning books from theSarazen Student Union Book store, student athletes on a fullathletic scholarship must identify themselves as a full grantstudent athlete. They are responsible for seeing the AthleticAcademic Advisor prior to purchasing and returning theirbooks. For each fall, spring and summer (if applicable) term,the Academic Advisor will provide each student athlete witha form that identifies them as a full grant student athlete.The student athlete is responsible for picking up the form

from the Academic Advisor’s office and submitting to the SSUBookstore cashier at the time of purchasing and returningtheir books.

FULL GRANT STUDENT ATHLETES SIGN A FORM, PROVIDEDBY THE ACADEMIC ADVISOR AFFIRMING THEY WILL COMPLYWITH THE FOLLOWING PROCEDURES:

Purchasing Procedure:

• I may only purchase books required for the course I am currently enrolled in.

• I must return required books for courses I dropped prior tothe “last day to drop” date passes.

• I will arrive to the bookstore with my course schedule and syllabi,if available, which lists the books I am required to purchase.

• I understand the Sarazen Union Bookstore will be forwardingthe Athletic Academic Advisor a copy of the receipt(s) for all ofthe books I purchase at the end of the second week of school,in addition to a list of required books for each course to ensurethe Athletic Department is funding only the required textbooks for each of my classes.

• Outside of required books, the only other accessory theAthletic Department will fund is a calculator required for aclass. Calculators must then be returned to the AthleticAcademic Advisor at the conclusion of the semester so thatshe may lend these calculators to other student athletes. If Iintend on keeping it for future use at the conclusion of thecourse, I must purchase the calculator on my own.

• I understand it is most convenient for the Sarazen UnionBookstore staff and the Athletic Department Administrationif I purchase all of my books in one visit.

Return Procedure:

• I am responsible for returning all books and submitting abuyback receipt to the Athletic Academic Advisor no later than24 hours after the last final exam is scheduled on campus.This receipt will be matched with the bookstore copy of thebuyback receipt to ensure compliance.

• In order to keep any text books, I must submit a typed letteraddressed to the Athletic Academic Advisor listing the title ofthe book(s) I would like to keep and citing the reason why.Administra tion will determine whether or not my reason islegitimate.

• I understand it is most convenient for the Sarazen UnionBookstore staff and the Athletic Department Administrationif I return all of my books in one visit.

If full grant student athletes do not comply with these rules, theAthletic Department reserves the right to bill them personallyfor the cost of their books and does not guarantee coveringthe cost of their books for subsequent semesters while atSiena College.

DEPARTMENT POLICY ON TRANSFER REQUESTSSiena College will not release student athletes to any institutionthat has membership in or association with the Metro AtlanticAthletic Conference. Releases to non-conference schools willbe issued on a school-by-school basis after the student athletehas completed the department’s transfer request process.

Student athletes requesting a release should contact thedepartment’s Compliance Officer. Once the necessary formsare completed, the request will be reviewed by the ComplianceOfficer and the appropriate Head Coach in consultation withthe Athletic Director.

The student athlete requesting release may appeal the decisionto an appeals committee which consists of college representa-tives not from the Athletics Department and conforms to theNCAA guidelines.

HOSTING RECRUITSSiena College expects all students, student athletes and theircampus visitors to respect the rights of others, obey all local, stateand federal laws, and abide by campus policies and regulations.

• Student athlete hosts will not use alcohol or illegal drugsduring an official visit or encourage prospective student athletes to use alcohol or drugs.

• Student athlete hosts are required to register prospects astheir guests as per College policy.

• Appropriate conduct at all times is required of student athletesin accordance with College, Conference and NCAA standards.

• It is expected that student athletes and their guests willrespect all College personnel.

• Inappropriate behavior (especially those involving alcohol,drugs or sex) in the recruiting process and during recruitingvisits will not be tolerated.

• Any violation of this code of conduct, College policy, AthleticDepartment policy or any law that occurs during the officialvisit by anyone involved (student athlete, prospect, and/orteammates) must be reported to the Head Coach prior to theprospect’s departure from campus.

Violations of this policy, other departmental policies or Collegepolicy will be dealt with through the department and/orCollege’s judiciary system. Possible sanctions, depending uponthe nature and severity of the violation can range from awarning to dismissal from the College.

Violations of NCAA regulations will be handled through theCollege and Confer ence policy and procedures for reportingNCAA violations. Student athletes responsible for violating NCAArules my jeopardize their eligibility for intercollegiate athletics.

STUDENT ATHLETE EXIT INTERVIEWSInterviews are conducted by the athletic administration withstudent athletes who are either graduating, transferring, orleaving Siena College for other reasons. The purpose of theirinterview is to assess the student athlete’s overall experience atSiena College, relative to his/her participation in intercollegiateathletics. Through the interviewing process, the administrationcan evaluate areas such as academic support services, genderequity, integration of the athlete into campus life, and otheraspects of athletic programming. In seeking the input of thestudent athlete, the department can learn where deficienciesmay exist and where improvements need to be made in orderto provide the best possible experience for the Siena studentathlete. Student athletes are requested to complete an onlinesurvey. Those wishing to have a face-to-face interview with anathletic department administrator are accommodated. A randomselection of student athletes are also invited to a face-to-faceinterview as well.

MARCELLE ATHLETIC COMPLEX POLICIESAll students are allowed to use recreational and athletic facilitiesand equipment located in Marcelle Athletic Complex uponpayment of tuition and fees. Students are permitted to bringguests into the facility at a charge of $10/day per guest.

In order to gain access to the MAC, a valid Siena College IDmust be presented at the front desk upon entering the facility.ID cards will be held until you leave the building.

The Marcelle Athletic Complex is a tobacco-free area. Use oftobacco (i.e., cigars, cigarettes, chew and snuff) is prohibitedin the building.

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FINANCIAL AIDFinancial aid at Siena College is generally awarded on the basisof need and scholastic achievement. In order to be consideredfor federal financial assistance, all students must file the FreeApplication for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). To be consideredfor grants and scholarships from Siena College, students mustfile the College financial aid application as well.

ATHLETIC GRANT-IN-AIDSThe awarding of athletic grants is based on the recommendationof the respective head coach and the Athletic Director, withfinal approval by the Assistant Vice President for Financial Aid.The student athlete recommended for an athletic award mustbe accepted to the College and have filed with the NCAAEligibility Center before a National Letter of Intent and a financialaid agreement may be sent. All student athletes, regardless ofthe amount of athletic aid awarded must file the FAFSA, and forTAP if a resident of New York State.

According to NCAA regulations, a full athletic grant may notexceed the cost of tuition, fees, room, board and books. How ever,a student athlete qualifying for a PELL Grant may receive thisadditional aid beyond the full grant.

Partial scholarship student athletes may supplement their athletic award with other types of institutionally or externallyadministered financial aid should they qualify. It is recommendedthat student athletes apply for all available sources of aid.

RENEWALS AND NONRENEWALSOnce an athletic grant is awarded, Siena College is committedto fulfilling its financial responsibilities until the student athlete’seligibility is exhausted, regardless of athletic performance.However, athletic grants are not automatically “four-yearscholarships.” They must be renewed annually. Notices ofrenewals or nonrenewals must be made on or before July 1for the next academic year by the Financial Aid Office.

An athletic grant may be reduced or cancelled immediately ifthe student athlete:

• voluntarily drops off a team;

• engages in serious misconduct as determined by theCollege’s regular disciplinary authority;

• renders him/herself ineligible for intercollegiate competi-tion; or

• fraudulently misrepresents any information on an applica-tion, letter of intent or financial aid agreement.

Gradation or cancellation of athletic aid is not permitted on thebasis of athletic ability, performance or contribution to the team,

an injury that prevents the student athlete from participating, orfor any other athletic reason during the award period.

An opportunity for a hearing before the Financial AidCommittee is required under NCAA rules for all student athleteswhose athletic aid has been reduced, cancelled, or not renewed.

Termination, Reduction or NonRenewalProcess:A decision to reduce, cancel or not renew a grant-in-aid maybe appealed within 14 calendar days of the date of the writtennotice from the Assistant Vice President for Financial Aidregarding the change in aid status. The student shall send aletter appealing the decision to the Assistant Vice Presidentfor Financial Aid who will convene the Athletic ScholarshipAppeal Committee. The Athletic Scholarship Appeal Committeeshall be comprised of the Faculty Athletics Representa tive, theAssistant Vice President for Finance and Administration andthe Assistant Vice President for Financial Aid, who will chairthe committee.

The letter from the student requesting an appeal should includea detailed statement in response to the cancellation, reductionor nonrenewal of aid and any supporting documentation.

The Athletic Department will be notified and given an oppor-tunity to provide a detailed statement citing reasons for therecommendation to change the grant-in-aid status as well asany supporting documentation.

The Athletic Scholarship Appeal Committee will convene toreview all submitted materials and may, at its discretion, seekadditional clarification and/or information. The Com mittee mayalso, at its discretion, invite the student and/or a representativefrom the Athletic Department to present information in personbefore the committee. The Athletic Department shall have theright to respond to any new issues raised by the appellant.

In considering any appeals, the Committee deliberations willtake into consideration that the College is under no contractualobligation to renew athletic grants-in-aid from year to year;however, it is the College’s hope to continue providing thistype of financial aid until a student athlete’s eligibility isexhausted, except where there is reason not to do so.

The Committee will render its finding on whether there wascause to terminate, reduce or not renew grant-in-aid prior tothe exhaustion of the student athlete’s eligibility based on thestandard of more likely than not. The Committee will forwardits findings to the appellant and the Athletic Department.

If the Committee finds it more likely than not there was causefor the termination, reduction or nonrenewal of grant-in-aid,the decision of the Athletic Department should be affirmed.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

If in the judgment of the Committee, it was more likely thannot that there was not cause for action, the Committee maymandate a renewal of the grant-in-aid for such a period oftime as it deems appropriate under the circumstances.

The decision of the Committee is final.

Student athletes unable to participate due to injury or illnesswill have the opportunity to retain all or part of their athleticaid if they remain with the program in some capacity.

All student athletes wishing to voluntarily withdraw from asport must sign a release form with the Associate AthleticDirector/Compliance.

SUMMER ATHLETIC AIDSiena College may provide summer athletic aid to those studentathletes receiving a full athletic grant in men’s or women’sbasketball during the regular academic year. The issuance ofsummer aid is not automatic. Only summer courses taken atSiena may be covered for full grant recipients. Student athletesreceiving such aid will be allowed to stay in the dormitories onlyduring the time they are taking classes. They will be chargedfor any additional days at the College’s current rate. Issuanceof aid for summer classes must be approved by the AssistantVice President for Financial Aid and is approved primarily tokeep students on track for graduation within four years.

FIFTH-YEAR ATHLETIC AIDThe receipt of athletic aid for a fifth year will be given consider-ation on a case-by-case basis upon request of the Head Coach.Final approval must be made by the Assistant Vice Presidentfor Financial Aid.

REQUEST TO STUDY ABROAD (effective 2009-10)All requests by student athletes to study abroad must be submitted to the Associate Athletic Director/Complianceusing the Student Athlete Request to Study Abroad form.

In order to be considered for retention of an athletic scholarshipwhen studying abroad for a semester, a student athlete mustmeet all of the following criteria:

1. The study-abroad experience must be a demonstrated integral component of the student’s major field of study. All credits must be preapproved through the appropriateschool office.

Note:Minors and certificate programs are not requirements ofdegree programs, but rather are considered optional.

2. A student athlete must meet all applicable progress towarddegree and eligibility requirements as per NCAA regulations.

3.The semester abroad must be taken during the non-traditionalsport season of the student’s junior or senior year – unlessdictated by the academic program (for example: AlbanyMed and Social Work).

If a student athlete’s request is denied, he/she has the right toappeal this decision. A committee composed of an athleticadmin istrator, Dean of the student’s school and the Director ofInternational Programs will review the appeal. The student willbe required to provide a transcript, CAPP report and othersupporting documentation to be considered for a review.

NCAA STUDENT ATHLETE OPPORTUNITY FUND APPLICATION PROCESSThe NCAA has allocated funds to supplement opportunitiesfor student athletes at Division I member institutions. NCAASpecial Opportunity Funds are not institutional funds. TheMetro Atlantic Athletic Conference, as per NCAA regulations, isresponsible for distribution and administration of the funds toits member institutions each year that funds are available. Ithas been determined by the MAAC Board of Directors that thefunds will be used for summer financial aid.

At Siena College, a student athlete can apply for summertuition aid through the NCAA Special Opportunity Fund, and ifselected based on the criteria below, may be awarded the costof tuition for up to two courses. Room, board and fees may beprovided as per MAAC policy.

In order to be considered for summer tuition aid, the followingconditions must be met:

1. Summer aid can be used only for courses taken at SienaCollege’s official summer school session. Correspondencecourses, courses taken at other institutions, study abroad orindependent study courses are not covered.

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2. A student athlete must have been enrolled full-time at SienaCollege for the fall and spring semesters during the previousacademic year.

3. Summer aid will only be given if a student athlete isenrolled in course(s) that are required to meet the student’sdegree requirements.

4. Summer aid will only be awarded while a student is enrolledin a class that meets the above criteria and relevant NCAAregulations.

5. A student athlete must be recommended by his/her coachand academic advisor to be considered for summer aid.

PROCEDURES:1. Student athlete can pick up an application from the AthleticDepartment Academic Advisor.

2. Student athlete must complete form, secure required signatures and provide a written statement as detailed onapplication to the Athletic Department Academic Advisorby the deadline.

3. Academic Advisor reviews and verifies information.

4. Director of Athletics consults with Academic Advisor andHead Coach to consider applicant’s request.

5. If approved, the Director of Athletics or designee signs andforwards application and supporting materials to the assistantVice President for Financial Aid. If denied, the Director ofAthletics notifies applicant.

6. Assistant VP for Financial Aid or designee reviews recom-mendation and if approved, issues an award letter to theapplicant. If denied, the Assistant VP for Financial Aid notifiesthe applicant.

SELECTION CRITERIA: Consideration for selection to receiveaid may be based on any one or more of the criteria listedbelow: (not necessarily in this order)

1. Student athlete needs credits from course(s) to maintainprogress toward degree and/or restore eligibility to participatein NCAA intercollegiate athletics.

2. Student athlete has documented financial need throughSiena’s Office of Financial Aid. The FAFSA based on the mostrecent tax year will be used to determine need and must befiled by April 1st.

3. Consideration may be given to a student athlete’s year inschool and expected graduation date.

4. Student athlete needs to improve his/her GPA to maintaineligibility or restore eligibility to participate in NCAA inter-collegiate athletics.

5. Student athlete has submitted all required paperwork(application and written statement) accurately and in full nolater than APRIL 1ST.

NCAA SPECIAL ASSISTANCE FUNDThe NCAA has established a fund to benefit student athleteswho receive PELL Grants and athletic aid recipients with unmetneed. The fund is administered through the MAAC Office.Qualified student athletes in all varsity intercollegiate sports atSiena may apply by completing an application with the AssociateAthletic Director/Compliance.

Permissible uses for special assistance funds include:

• medical expenses (except those covered by another insurance program, either personal or institutional);

• hearing aids; vision therapy (contact lens, eyeglasses—ifnot covered by another insurance program);

• off-campus psychological counseling or therapy;

• travel expenses for student athlete or parents related tofamily emergencies;

• purchase of expendable academic course supplies (notebooks, pens, computer paper) and rental of nonex-pendable supplies (computer equipment, cameras) thatare required of all students in a course; and

• articles of clothing and shoes up to $500.

Those student athletes verified as eligible through the FinancialAid Office will be notified that they may qualify for aid throughthe NCAA Special Assistance Fund. After an application is madewith the Associate Athletic Director/Compliance, the applicationis forwarded to the MAAC Office. The student athlete mustpick up the check in person at the office of the AssociateAthletic Director/Compliance. Valid receipts must be turned into account for the amount of the check.

VACATION EMPLOYMENTAll student athletes may be employed during official vacationperiods as defined by the Academic Affairs Office.

EMPLOYMENT GUIDELINESAccording to NCAA rules, the following applies to all types ofstudent athlete employment:

• useful work must be performed,

• the rate of pay must be the regular rate for such duties,

• hours paid must be equal to actual hours worked,

• payment in advance of hours worked is not permitted,and transportation to the job site may be provided if it isavailable to all employees.

• Effective 8/1/02, student athletes may be employed on afee-for-lesson basis in any sport as long as the aboveguidelines are met.

• Student athletes are responsible for adhering to employ-ment rules and regulations and are to report any irregular-ities in compensation or benefits to the Athletic Directoror Compliance Office.

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Unfortunately, injuries are part of inter collegiate athletics.Therefore, the sports medicine staff is on hand to assist injuredstudent athletes. Immediate care can and will reduce the amountof time required to return the student athlete to competition.

An important thing to remember is that not all student athletesare the same. Some will recover more quickly than others.Attendance at treatment and therapy sessions is important torecovery. If a student athlete cannot make a scheduled therapytime because of class or work, s/he must bring that to thetrainer’s attention and other arrangements will be made.

Each athlete is treated with the staff’s best efforts, so pleasetake advantage. If there is something we cannot do or provide,we can direct you to that service. Physicians provide gamecoverage and are on-call. Our physicians are extremely dedi-cated to the well-being of Siena College student athletes.

POLICIES AND PROCEDURES OF TRAINING ROOMThe Siena College training room is under the supervision ofHead Athletic Trainer Greg Dashnaw. The trainer has the author-ity, with approval of the Director of Athletics, to set policy,establish hours, monitor conduct and make decisions concern-ing the overall operation of the training room.

Training Room HoursEvaluation and Treatments

9 a.m. - Noon

Taping and Treatments12:30 p.m. - 3:45 p.m.

Post-Practice Treatments6 p.m. - Reasonable Time As Determined by Head Trainer

Important Phone NumbersSiena College Security . . . . . . . . . . . . 783-2376Director of Athletics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 783-2450Training Room. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 783-2544

EMERGENCY MEDICAL TREATMENTThe following procedures should be used in emergency medical situations:

1. DO NOT MOVE THE ATHLETE

2. Send someone for the trainer. Stabilize the injured athlete. If a trainer cannot be reached, summon SienaSecurity by calling 783-2376. Security will call for anambulance, so be ready to supply security with:

a. exact location

b. nature of injury

Telephones are located in the training room, the front desk ofthe Marcelle Athletic Complex and in the IntercollegiateAthletics Office.

3. Direct all life-threatening injuries to Albany MemorialHospital. Notify the emergency room at Albany Memorial:

471-3111

TRAINING ROOM DAILY GUIDELINES1. Training room hours run from 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Mondaythru Friday when school is in session. Weekend hours varyaccording to season, travel and game schedules.

2. The training room is a co-ed facility. There fore, you areexpected to dress appropriately. Proper use of language isexpected and appreciated.

3. Any type of tobacco product in the training room is prohibited by Siena College and the NCAA.

4. The training room is not an equipment room. Please do notbring your equipment or duffel bags in with you. Do notwear cleats or spikes in the training room.

5. An injury log is maintained on a daily basis, as well as atreatment log. Please report all injuries to the training stafffor proper care and record-keeping.

6. If you need some type of care or assistance, please ask usfor help. Do not attempt to do things on your own.

Sports Medicine

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7. Treatments for injury care and prophylactic taping are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis. In-season athleteswill be given priority on gamedays.

8. Training room equipment shall not be taken from the training room without permission from the trainers.

9. The telephone in the training room is for staff use only.

10. At certain times, the training room can become crowded.Should this occur, an athlete could be asked to leave theroom until an available slot opens up. The athlete who isasked to leave the room is expected to show cooperation,since an overly-crowded room can only hinder the stafffrom working as expeditiously as possible.

11. An athlete who has any special needs or concerns shouldsee the Head Athletic Trainer or the Director of SportsMedicine. Our goal is to meet everyone’s needs.

12. OSHA health standards and guidelines are followed by the training room staff. These rules are for your protection,as well as ours. Please report all open wounds, scratches,abrasions, turf burns, etc. to a member of the training roomstaff for proper care.

13. A trainer will be present at all home events. Coverage ofaway events and practices will be provided as staffing allows.

14. Our goal is to return a healthy, functional athlete to theplaying field. We are not here to force athletes into compe-tition, nor are we making an attempt to detract from anathlete’s participation time. The sports medicine staff willmake decisions about treatment, taping and training roomadministration. These decisions are final.

Intercollegiate Athletics Insurance Policies and ProceduresSiena College provides supplemental athletic accident andmedical insurance for all injuries sustained during supervisedpractice and contests.

Injuries sustained out-of-season, at unsuper vised/voluntarysessions, in intramural or in non-intercollegiate athletic situationsare not covered. Illness and other health-related problems arenot included.

The College Health Service offers student insurance whichcovers such instances for a nominal fee.

The Intercollegiate Athletic Department strongly recommendsthat the parent(s) or guardian(s) maintain coverage for thestudent athlete under their current policy or purchase theinsurance available through Health Service. Insurance infor-mation MUST be updated with the Athletic Office annually.

The Siena College policy is in excess of the family insuranceand requires the family policy to serve as the primary coverage.Unlike automobile insurance, claims made against the familypolicy will not increase the premium.

Siena College Student Athlete Insurance Protocol• Student athlete gets injured.

• Athletic trainer and/or physician decides if the student athleteneeds to seek further medical attention (ER, X-Rays, MRI, etc.).

• The student athlete is to present his/her PRIMARY insuranceat the initial visit, scan, or follow-up visits related to injury.

• The athletic trainer will fill out a claim form to send to NAGA,Siena Athletics’ secondary insurance for athletic injuries.

• The student athlete and his/her parents or guardians areresponsible for sending any explanation of benefits and balancedue from any office visit, emergency room visit, labs, imaging,and any other treatment or service the student athlete under-goes that is issued by the parent/guardians’ insurance providerto the Siena College Training Room Staff. Siena will then submitto Siena’s secondary insurance provider, NAGA, for payment.

• NAGA will either cover the amount due or will send an explanation of benefits to Siena College stating why theamount was not covered.

~ The amount not covered by NAGA will be paid by Siena,provided the reason for the treatment was related to thestudent’s athletic commitment and that all paperwork wassubmitted in a timely fashion.

• The parents/guardians of the student athlete SHOULD NOTdirectly pay for any overages that their primary insurer does notcover. Any bills not paid by the parents/guardians’ insuranceprovider along with the explanation of benefits must be submitted to the Siena Athletics Training Staff in a timelymanner, so that it can be submitted to NAGA for payment.Not providing this information to Siena in a timely mannercould impact Siena’s ability to submit the claim to NAGA.

~ Siena may not be responsible for medical payments beyondwhat the student athletes’ primary insurance covers IF themedical bills are not presented to the Training Staff in atimely manner.

• Siena will cover any co-pays if the injury is the result of thestudent athletes’ athletic commitment.

All student athletes must annually complete insurance information through the department’s online form system. If this information is not on file in the inter collegiate athleticoffice, the student athlete will not be permitted to practice or compete.

NCAA Catastrophic Injury Insurance ProgramThe Catastrophic Injury Insurance Program sponsored by theNCAA is an insurance program that covers the student athletewho is catastrophically injured while participating in a coveredinter collegiate athletic activity. The policy has a $75,000deductible and provides coverage in excess of any other valid and collectible insurance.

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HIPAA STATEMENT

Since a student athlete’s health and medical information is protected by federal privacy regulations (HIPAA), the Sports MedicineOffice asks that student athletes voluntarily sign a release authorizing the sports medicine staff to disclose certain healthinformation to authorized personnel such as coaches, other College personnel, parents/guardians and health care personnel.The student athlete has the right to refuse to sign this authorization. A copy of the release authorization follows:

Release of Protected Health Information Authorization for Siena College Student Athletes

I give my permission for Siena College, its sports medicine staff, health care personnel and other employees to disclose certainhealth information in accordance with this Authorization for Release of Information Form. The Protected Health Information is anyinformation that pertains to any injury or illness, which has or may have an impact on my ability to participate in any intercollegiateathletic program (including training, strength and conditioning, travel) in which I have enrolled for this academic year.

Siena College may disclose the Protected Health Information to the NCAA, the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference, media outletscovering Siena College Intercollegiate Athletics, my parents/guardians, and Siena College employees and agents. This authorizationshall remain in force and effective until 380 days from the date of my signature below. I understand that I have the right to revokethis Authorization, in writing, at any time by delivering written notification to the athletic director at Siena College. It is understoodthat a revocation of the Authorization is not effective until the athletic director acknowledges receipt of my notification in writing,and that such revocation is not effective to the extent that anyone, including Siena College, has acted in reliance on this Authorizationto disclose Protected Health Information prior to an effective revocation of this Authorization. I understand that information usedor disclosed pursuant to this Authorization may be subject to redisclosure by the recipient, and hereby consent to such disclosure.

I understand that my Protected Health Information is protected by federal regulations under the Family Educational Rights andPrivacy Act of 1974 (FERPA) and may not be disclosed without my authorization and that I have signed this Authorization freelyand voluntarily. Siena College shall not condition my treatment or eligibility for treatment on whether I provide this Authorizationfor the requested use or disclosure, and I understand that I have the right to refuse to sign this authorization.

Questions regarding HIPAA regulations may be directed to the Head Athletic Trainer in the Sports Medicine Office.

Use of Banned Substances/NCAA Drug TestingThe NCAA has established a list of banned substances. The useof such substances by student athletes may jeopardize eligibilityfor intercollegiate athletics participation.

Student athletes should not assume that the list is limited to“street” or illegal drugs. Some of the banned substances canbe found in prescription and over-the-counter medicationssuch as cold remedies. Therefore, before taking any medication,student athletes are advised to consult with members of thesports medicine staff.

Strict penalties have been established for first and subsequentviolations of the NCAA banned substance rule. In addition, student athletes who refuse to participate in mandatory drugtesting, or who attempt to cause an incorrect result, will alsoreceive a penalty.

Any student athlete may be subject to NCAA drug testing during the year, including the summer. In all sports, studentathletes are randomly tested prior to, or immediately follow-ing an NCAA Championship.

Facts About Banned Drugs and SupplementsIt is the responsibility of the student athlete to know aboutNCAA banned drugs and/or supplements. It is important to be

aware of the fact that many nutritional supplements sold overthe counter may contain NCAA banned substances.

The NCAA categorizes drug classes into the following categories:

Prohibited (may not be used)

Restricted (may be used under special circumstancesdefined by the NCAA)

Allowed (may be used, assuming the use is legal, appropriate or medically justified).

Student athletes may contact the Resource Exchange Center(REC) directly with any questions concerning the NCAAbanned drugs or supplements or contact the Athletic Traineror Associate Athletic Director/Compliance. Information about ingredients in medications and nutritional/dietary supplements can also be obtained by contacting the ResourceExchange Center, REC Toll Free: 877/202-0769 or on the web www.drugfreesport.com/rec (password is ncaa1, ncaa2or ncaa3)

Remember you are solely responsible for what you consume,so play it safe for your health, safety and eligibility.

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2013-14 NCAA Banned DrugsIt is your responsibility to check with the appropriate or designated athletics staff before using any substance

The NCAA bans the following classes of drugs:

a. Stimulants

b. Anabolic Agents

c. Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only)

d. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents

e. Street Drugs

f. Peptide Hormones and Analogues

g. Anti-estrogens

h. Beta-2 Agonists

Note: Any substance chemically related to these classes isalso banned.

The institution and the student athlete shall be held account-able for all drugs within the banned drug class regardless ofwhether they have been specifically identified.

Drugs and Procedures Subject to Restrictions:

a. Blood Doping

b. Local Anesthetics (under some conditions)

c. Manipulation of Urine Samples

d. Beta-2 Agonists permitted only by prescription andinhalation

e. Caffeine if concentrations in urine exceed 15 micrograms/ml

NCAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning:

Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product,review the product with the appropriate or designated athleticsdepartment staff!

• Dietary supplements are not well regulated and maycause a positive drug test result.

• Student athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibilityusing dietary supplements.

• Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banneddrugs not listed on the label.

• Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredientis taken at your own risk.

Note to Student Athletes: There is no complete list of bannedsubstances. Do not rely on this list to rule out any supplementingredient.

Check with your athletics department staff prior to using a supplement.

Some Examples of NCAA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class

Stimulants: amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine;ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine;methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine(bitter orange); methylhexaneamine, “bath salts”(mephedrone) etc. exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned.

Anabolic Agents (sometimes listed as a chemical formula, suchas 3,6,17-androstenetrione): Androstenedione; boldenone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto);epi-trenbolone; etiocholanolone; methasterone; methandienone; nandrolone; norandrostenedione;stanozolol; stenbolone; testosterone; trenbolone; etc.

Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only): alcohol; atenolol; metoprolol; nadolol; pindolol; propranolol;timolol; etc.

Diuretics (water pills) and Other Masking Agents: bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide;probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene;trichlormethiazide; etc.

Street Drugs: heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); syntheticcannabinoids (e.g., spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073)

Peptide Hormones and Analogues: growth hormone(hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin(hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc.

Anti-Estrogens: anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; 3, 17-dioxo-etiochol-1,4, 6-triene (ATD), etc.

Beta-2 Agonists: bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; etc.

Additional examples of banned drugs can be found atwww.ncaa.org/drugtesting.

Any substance that is chemically related to the class, even if itis not listed as an example, is also banned!

Information about ingredients in medications and nutritional/dietary supplements can be obtained by contacting theResource Exchange Center, REC, 877-202-0769 orwww.drugfreesport.com/rec password ncaa1, ncaa2 or ncaa3.

It is your responsibility to check with the appropriate or designated athletics staff before using any substance.

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NCAA Drug-Testing Consent FormEach academic year, a student athlete shall sign a form givingconsent to be tested for the use of any banned drugs. Failureto complete and sign the consent form prior to practice orcompetition shall result in the student athlete’s ineligibility forparticipation in all intercollegiate athletics. Any student athletemay be subject to NCAA drug testing.

Siena College Drug-Testing and Substance-Abuse Awareness Program Policy

1. IntroductionThe following policy statement on student athlete drug-testingand substance-abuse awareness has been adopted and shallbe administered by the Siena College Athletic Department.Siena College reserves the right to make changes to this Policyas needed, and this Policy should not be construed to create acontract between the student athlete and Siena College. Pleasenote this Policy represents the Siena College Department ofAthletics’ Drug-Testing and Substance-Abuse AwarenessProgram, which is separate and distinct from the NCAA drug-testing program (including all sanction phases). Informationregarding the NCAA drug-testing program is available atwww.ncaa.org. This Policy, which relates only to a student athlete’s participation in intercollegiate athletics at SienaCollege, is also separate from the Siena College Student Codeof Con duct which governs the student athlete’s conduct generally as a student member of the Siena College community.Therefore, the sanctions resulting from enforcement of thisPolicy do not interfere with or impact the authority of theCollege to discipline a student athlete under the Siena CollegeStudent Code of Conduct.

Siena College is concerned with the health, safety and welfareof the student athletes who participate in its programs andrepresent the College in competitive athletics. Substance abuseis one of the most important issues facing athletics and societytoday. The use of illegal drugs, misuse of legal drugs and dietarysupplements, use of performance-enhancing substances, useof alcohol and inappropriate use of tobacco are inconsistentwith the standards expected of student athletes at SienaCollege. Substance use and abuse in sport can pose risks to astudent athlete’s health/safety and negatively affect his/heracademic and athletic performance. Substance use and abusein sport may also compromise the integrity of athletic competi-tion and the ideals of Siena College.

For the purposes of this Policy, “student athlete” shall meanany student at Siena College who participates in any AthleticsDepartment-sponsored varsity sporting event and/or practice.

2. PurposeThe Athletic Department believes that random drug testingand testing based on reasonable suspicion are appropriate toensure the health, safety and welfare of our student athletes,to promote fair competition in intercollegiate athletics, to affirm

compliance with applicable rules and regulations on drug andalcohol abuse, to identify student athletes who are improperlyusing drugs or alcohol and to assist them before they harmthemselves or others. Furthermore, the Athletic Departmentrecognizes its responsibility to provide educational programmingthat will support a positive decision-making process.

The intent of the following elements of the Siena CollegeDepartment of Athletics’ Drug-Testing and Substance-AbuseAware ness Program Policy is to prevent substance use andabuse by student athletes through education, testing, andprofessional guidance.

• Education – providing student athletes and athletic staff withaccurate information about the problems associated withsubstance use in sport, promoting health and safety in sport;

• Testing – analyzing biological specimens to detect prohibitedsubstances student athletes may introduce to their bodiesand associated sanctions resulting from use detailed in thisPolicy; and

• Professional Referral – facilitating appropriate treatment andrehabilitation of student athletes.

3. Alcohol, Tobacco and Other Drug EducationParticipants who are educated about substance use in sportare more likely to make informed and intelligent decisionsabout usage. Siena College will conduct a drug and alcoholeducation program for student athletes at least twice a year.These educational programs will be designed to review athleticdepartment, institutional, conference and national governingbody policies related to alcohol, tobacco and other drugs.Appropriate educational materials will be made available toparticipants including this Policy and a list of banned substances.All student athletes and athletics’ staff members are requiredto attend. Make-up sessions are available for participants whomust miss a scheduled educational session for an approvedreason. In addition to educating student athletes and athletics’staff about the various policies, a review of the institutionaldrug-testing program will be conducted. Dietary supplementsand their inherent risks will be discussed. Time will be allowedfor questions from participants. In addition, special educationalprograms may be arranged to provide participants the oppor-tunity to learn more about the dangers of specific substances.

4. Consent to ParticipateAs a condition of participation in intercollegiate athletics atSiena College, each student athlete will be required to sign aconsent form agreeing to undergo drug and alcohol testingand authorizing release of test results in accordance with thispolicy (See Appendix A). By signing this consent form, the student athlete understands it is the right of every sport teamto administer specific team policies that include additional ormore severe sanctions than that of this department-wide policy.Failure to consent to or to comply with the requirements of thispolicy may result in suspension from participation or termina-tion of eligibility to participate in intercollegiate athletics at

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Siena College. Each student athlete, annually, will be given acopy of the Siena College Department of Athletics’ Drug-Test ingand Substance-Abuse Awareness Program Policy and will berequired to participate in an informative session describingalcohol, tobacco and other drug education and testing policies.Additionally, student athletes will be given an opportunity toask any questions regarding the information contained in thepolicy, the testing program, or other related issues prior tosigning the drug-testing consent form.

5. Alcohol Policy The alcohol policy for student athletes who are of legal drinkingage will be applied on a team-by-team, year-by-year basis. It isthe responsibility of every member of the college communityto be aware of the risks associated with alcohol use and abuse.Consistent with the College community, the Department ofAthletics views the use of alcohol to be incompatible with thegoal of athletic excellence. Student athletes are required toconduct themselves in accordance with institutional policies,and federal, state and local laws. This extends to the recruitmentof prospective Siena College student athletes. Prospective student athletes visiting campus and socializing with currentstudents are not permitted to participate in any activities thatwill permit the use of alcohol. It should be understood thatpossession or consumption of alcoholic beverages by individualsunder the age of 21 is a violation of state liquor laws. Like wise,it is illegal for anyone to supply alcoholic beverages to personsunder the age of 21.

The Athletic Department may suspend any student athlete upona charge, conviction or plea of guilty to any of the following:

• Driving under the influence (DUI/DWI) or other motor vehicleviolations involving alcohol or drugs;

• Public intoxication;

• Drunk and disorderly;

• Other violations of local, state, or federal law involving alcoholor drugs, including possession;

• Other violations of local, state, or federal law involving alcoholor drugs and acts of violence;

• Violations of the Siena College Student Code of Conductinvolving alcohol or drugs; or

• Underage drinking.

6. Tobacco PolicyThe use of tobacco products by all game personnel (e.g. coaches,student athletes, athletic trainers, managers and game officials)is prohibited in all sports during practice and competition. Astudent athlete who violates this tobacco policy will be sanc-tioned for a “first offense” as outlined in the penalty section ofthis policy. The Director of Athletics or his/her designee willsanction other game personnel who violate this tobacco policyon a case-by-case basis.

7. Dietary SupplementsSiena College Department of Athletics’ personnel will not distribute or encourage the use of any dietary supplements orergogenic aids. Many dietary supplements or ergogenic aidscontain banned substances. Oftentimes the labeling of dietarysupplements is not accurate and is misleading. Terms such as“healthy” or “all natural” do not mean dietary supplements donot contain a banned substance or are safe to take. Usingdietary supplements may cause positive drug tests. Studentathletes who are currently taking dietary supplements orintend to take any are required to review the product with theHead Athletic Trainer. Student athletes are solely responsiblefor any substance that they ingest. All student athletes areencouraged to use the Drug Free Sport Resource ExchangeCenter (REC) to obtain current and accurate information ondietary supplements or ergogenic aids. All inquiries to the RECare confidential. The Resource Exchange Center may beaccessed at www.drugfreesport.com/REC/. The password isncaa1, ncaa2, or ncaa3.

By signing the Siena College Drug/Alcohol Education &Testing Program Consent Form, the student athlete:

1. Acknowledges that he/she understands that they are to disclose all dietary supplements used to the head athletic trainer;

2.Acknowledges the aforementioned policies and statements,and fully accepts the detrimental and possibly permanentdefects caused by the use of dietary supplements;

3. Fully accepts that they have been made aware of theSiena College and the National Collegiate AthleticAssociation (NCAA) policies with regard to the use ofdietary supplements;

4. Accepts any and all liability if they have in the past used,continue to use, and/or use at anytime in the future,dietary supplements in any form; and releases SienaCollege, its agents, and all personnel of any and allresponsibility and liability related to such use.

8. Prohibited Drugs/SubstancesThe drug and/or alcohol screening process may include analysisof, but is not limited to, the NCAA list of banned-drug classes(See Appendix B). For an ongoing updated listing of the banned-drug classes view the NCAA’s website at www.ncaa.org.Prohibited substances that Siena College may screen for include,without limitation, alcohol, marijuana, PCP, opiates, MDMA(Ecstasy), amphetamines/ methamphetamines, cocaine, mask-ing agents/diuretics, and anabolic steroids. Siena Collegerequires that all student athletes keep the athletic training staffand/or team physician aware of any prescribed drugs anddietary supplements that he or she may be taking. Siena Collegereserves the right to test for substances not contained on theNCAA banned-drug list and may test at cut off levels that differfrom the NCAA program.

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9. Specimen AnalysisThe drug-screening process may include, but is not limited to,the following biological specimen collection methods:

• Urine Testing. The collection process and protocol can befound in Appendix C.

10. Selected Types of Drug Testing • Unannounced Random TestingAll student athletes who have signed the institutional drug-testing consent form and are listed on the institutional squadlist are subject to unannounced random testing. The Directorof Athletics or his/her designee will select student athletesfrom the official institutional squad lists by using a computer-ized random number program.

• Pre-season ScreeningStudent athletes are subject to pre-season drug testing andmay be notified of such by the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee at any time prior to their first competition.

• Reasonable Suspicion ScreeningA student athlete may be subject to testing at any time whenthe Director of Athletics or his/her designee determines thereis individualized reasonable suspicion to believe the participantis using a prohibited drug. Such reasonable suspicion may bebased on objective information as determined by the Directorof Athletics or by an Associate/Assistant Athletic Director, HeadCoach, Assistant Coach, Head Athletic Trainer, or AssistantAthletic Trainer and deemed reliable by the Director of Athleticsor his/her designee. Reasonable suspicion may include, withoutlimitation, 1) observed possession or use of substances appear-ing to be prohibited drugs, 2) arrest or conviction for a criminaloffense related to the possession or transfer of prohibited drugsor substances, or 3) observed abnormal appearance, conductor behavior reasonably interpretable as being caused by theuse of prohibited drugs or substances. Among the indicatorswhich may be used in evaluating a student athlete’s abnormalappearance, conduct or perfor mance are: class attendance,significant GPA changes, athletic practice attendance, increasedinjury rate or illness, physical appearance changes, academic/athletic motivational level, emotional condition, mood changes,and legal involvement (See Appendix D). If suspected, theDirector of Athletics or his/her designee will notify the studentathlete and the student athlete must stay with a member oftheir coaching staff, the athletics administration staff, or thesports medicine staff, until an adequate specimen is produced.Note: The possession and/or use of illegal substances may bedetermined by means other than urinalysis. When an individualis found to be in possession and/or using such substances,he/she will be subject to the same procedures that would befollowed in the case of a positive urinalysis.

• Postseason/Championship ScreeningAny participant or team likely to advance to post-seasonchampionship competition may be subject to additional test-ing. Testing may be required of all team members or individualstudent athletes at any time within thirty (30) days prior tothe post-season competition. If a student athlete tests positive,

he/she will not be allowed to compete at the post-seasonevent and will be subject to the sanctions herein.

• Re-entry TestingA student athlete who has had his/her eligibility to participatein intercollegiate sports suspended as a result of a drug oralcohol violation will be required to undergo re-entry drugand/or alcohol testing prior to regaining eligibility. The Directorof Athletics or his/her designee shall arrange for re-entry test-ing after the counselor or specialist involved in the studentathlete’s case indicates that re-entry into the intercollegiatesports program is appropriate.

• Follow-up TestingA student athlete who has returned to participation in inter-collegiate sports following a positive drug test under thispolicy may be subject to follow-up testing. Testing will beunannounced and will be required at a frequency determinedby the Athletic Director or his/her designee in consultation withthe counselor or specialist involved in the student athlete’s case.

11. Notification and Reporting for CollectionsThe student athlete will be notified of and scheduled for testingby Siena College. Notifi cations of testing shall consist of a face-to-face meeting with the student athlete, or a phone conversa-tion with the student athlete. The Director of Athletics or his/her designee will notify the student athlete of the date andtime to report to the testing station and will have the studentathlete read and sign the Student Athlete Notifica tion Form(See Appendix E).

The Director of Athletics or his/her designee will be in thetesting station to certify the identity of the student athletesselected. Student athletes shall provide picture identificationwhen entering the drug-testing station. The Director of Athleticsor his/her designee must remain in the collection station untilall student athletes complete the collection process.

ALL COLLECTIONS AND/OR TESTING UNDER THIS POLICYSHALL BE OBSERVED COLLECTIONS.

12. Laboratory Analysis/Reporting ResultsUrine samples will be collected and sent to an independentSAMHSA and/or World Anti-Doping Agency approved laboratoryfor analysis. Siena College hereby certifies that any laboratoryit engages for the testing of performance enhancing drugs/anabolic agents will abide by the World Anti-Doping Agencycode of ethics as it relates to the testing of samples. Furthermore,Siena College hereby certifies that no sample will be sent to alaboratory for the sole purpose of monitoring an athlete forthe detection of performance enhancing substances in orderto circumvent a positive drug test. Each sample will be testedin accordance with this policy to determine if banned drugs orsubstances are present and the appropriate sanctions willapply for positive results.

If the laboratory reports a specimen as substituted, manipulatedor adulterated, which under the circumstances could only havebeen done by the student athlete, the student athlete will be

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deemed to have refused to submit to testing and treated as ifthe test were positive for a banned substance.

All student athlete information and records associated withthe Siena College drug-testing program will be confidentialand will be released only to those individuals with a legitimateneed to know.

13. SanctionsRefusal to sign a consent form prohibits a student athlete fromparticipating in any intercollegiate sport at Siena College. Anystudent athlete who tests positive for a banned substance orwho refuses to submit to a required drug test, and/or who violates the terms of the Voluntary Disclosure CounselingProgram as described below shall be subject to the sanctionsbelow. Notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, ateam physician, in his/her sole discretion, reserves the right towithhold a student athlete from practice and/or competitionif such practice and/or competition would pose a threat to thehealth and safety of the student athlete or his/her competitors.However, any decision to restrict a student athlete from practiceand/or competition for health and safety concerns must bebased on credible information. Only the team physician mayrelease a student athlete to resume competition and/or practice.All violations of this policy are cumulative.

If a student athlete has been charged and found responsible forpossession of drugs by the College’s office of Student Affairs orby law enforcement that will count toward an offense in theathletic department policy.

• First OffenseThe Head Athletic Trainer will schedule a confidential meetingwith the student athlete, the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee and the appropriate head coach to review the posi-tive drug test results. The team physician may also be presentif deemed necessary by the Director of Athletics of his/herdesignee. The Director of Athletics or his/her designee willnotify the student athlete’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) bytelephone and in writing. The student athlete will be immedi-ately suspended from participation in any intercollegiate sportat Siena College for 10% of the competitive season, but not toexceed three (3) competitions not including scrimmages andexhibitions. Competition will wrap around to the subsequentseason if necessary. The student athlete will be required toattend all practices and competitions unless excused by theappropriate head coach. At the student athlete’s sole expense,the student athlete will be required to attend drug counselingassessment session(s) as determined by the Director of Athleticsor his/her designee. The student athlete will initially be referredfor an on-campus counseling interview. The counselor will askthe student athlete to discuss the nature and extent of his/herinvolvement with prohibited drugs and/or alcohol. The coun-selor shall determine the appropriate form(s) of interventionand rehabilitation needed by the student athlete, based onthe circumstances of the case. Failing to comply with thecounselor’s directions for treatment will be classified as a

second offense. The student athlete will be required toundergo re-entry testing and test negative prior to regainingeligibility. The student athlete will also be subject to follow-uptesting. Testing will be unannounced and will be required at afrequency determined by the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee. All costs associated with any counseling sessionshall be the sole responsibility of the student athlete.

• Second OffenseThe Head Athletic Trainer will schedule a confidential meetingwith the student athlete, the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee and the appropriate head coach to review the posi-tive drug test results. The team physician may also be presentif deemed necessary by the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee. The Director of Athletics or his/her designee willnotify the student athlete’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) bytelephone and in writing. The student athlete will be immedi-ately suspended from participation in any intercollegiatesport at Siena College for 50% of the competitive season.Competition will wrap around to the subsequent season ifnecessary. Student athlete will be required to attend all prac-tices and competitions unless excused by the appropriatehead coach. At the student athlete’s sole expense, the studentathlete will be required to attend drug/alcohol counselingassessment session(s) as determined by the Director ofAthletics or his/her designee. The counselor will ask the studentathlete to discuss the nature and extent of his/her involvementwith prohibited drugs and/or alcohol. The counselor shalldetermine the appropriate form(s) of intervention and rehabil-itation needed by the student athlete, based on the circum-stances of the case. Fail ing to comply with the counselor’sdirections for treatment will be classified as a third offense. Thestudent athlete will be required to undergo re-entry testingand test negative prior to regaining eligibility. The studentathlete will also be subject to follow-up testing. Testing will beunannounced and will be required at a frequency determinedby the Director of Athletics or his/her designee. All costsassociated with any counseling session shall be the soleresponsibility of the student athlete.

• Third OffenseThe Head Athletic Trainer will schedule a confidential meetingwith the student athlete, the Director of Athletics or his/herdesignee and the appropriate head coach to review the posi-tive drug test results. The student athlete will be permanentlysuspended from participating in any sport at Siena College.The Director of Athletics or his/her designee will notify thestudent athlete’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) by telephoneand in writing of such decision.

A recommendation will be made that the student athleteenroll in an appropriate treatment program. The Departmentof Athletics will be willing to assist the student athlete withenrolling in such a treatment program but will not assumeany financial responsibility for the student athlete’s treat-ment program.

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14. Missing A Counseling SessionIt is the responsibility of the student athlete who makes anappointment with a counselor to keep that appointment. Ifthe student athlete is not able to keep the appointment he/sheis expected to cancel the appointment by telephone, preferably24 hours in advance but at least by 8:30 a.m. on the day of theappointment. Prior to the appointment, the student athletewill read and sign an informed consent for evaluation andtreatment, which includes an agreement to follow theappointment policies.

Failure to keep or cancel an appointment as stated above mayresult in suspension from practice and/or competition asdetermined by the Director of Athletics or his/her designee.

15. Voluntary Disclosure Counseling Program• A student athlete who has engaged in prohibited drug oralcohol use is encouraged to seek assistance from theAthletic Department by voluntarily disclosing his/her useprior to an announced drug test.

• If the student athlete seeks assistance prior to being identifiedas having violated this policy or being notified that he/shemust undergo screening, the impermissible use will not bedeemed an offense for purposes of determining sanctionsunder this policy; however, the student athlete will be ineligibleto participate in intercollegiate sports pending an evaluation.The student athlete who has made a voluntary disclosure willbe required to take a drug test immediately to establish abaseline for follow-up testing. A student athlete will not bepermitted to enter the Voluntary Disclosure CounselingProgram thirty (30) days or less prior to an NCAA orConference postseason competition.

• The student athlete will be required to undergo an evaluationby a Siena College counselor. The counselor shall determinethe appropriate form(s) of intervention and rehabilitationneeded by the student athlete, based on the circumstancesof the case. The counselor will provide a summary of his/herfindings and recommendations to the Athletic Director.

• A student athlete will be permitted to remain in the Volun taryDisclosure Counseling Pro gram for a reasonable period of time,not to exceed thirty (30) days, as determined by the treatmentplan. However, the student athlete will not be permitted toreturn to participation in intercollegiate sports until thecounselor has interviewed the student athlete following theconclusion of the recommended treatment (or stage of treat-ment, as applicable) and has determined that re-entry intointercollegiate sports is appropriate. If the counselor deems itnecessary, the student athlete will be required to undergodrug and/or alcohol testing as part of the re-entry evaluation.

• Failing to complete the treatment recommended by thecounselor, or having a positive test for any banned substancethat indicates new use after entering the Voluntary Dis closureCounseling Program will be deemed the next subsequentoffense under this policy.

• If the student athlete regains his/her eligibility to participatein intercollegiate sports, he/she may be required to undergounannounced follow-up tests at the discretion of the AthleticDirector in consultation with the counselor.

16. Appeal Hearing Student athletes who test positive for a banned substance bythe laboratory retained by the College may, within 72 hoursfollowing receipt of notice of the laboratory finding, contest thefinding. Upon the student athlete’s request for additional testingof the sample, the Director of Athletics will formally requestthe laboratory retained by the College to perform testing onspecimen B. The student athlete will remain eligible whilewaiting for the results of specimen B. Specimen B findings willbe final, subject to the results of any appeal. If specimen Bresults are negative, the drug test will be considered negative.

Student athletes who test positive or who have been determinedto be in possession and/or use of illegal substances by meansother than urinalysis in accordance with Section 10 above willbe entitled to a hearing prior to the imposition of any sanction.Requests for such a hearing must be made in writing to theDirector of Athletics or his/her designee within 48 hours ofnotification of a positive test result. If the 48 hours would end on a weekend, the request must be made by noon on thenext business day. The student athlete must confirm receiptof the request.

The student athlete may have an advisor, or any representativeother than an attorney, if the student so desires. However, thestudent athlete must present his/her own case. The hearingshould take place no more than 72 hours after the writtenrequest is received. The Hearing Panel will consist of individualsinternal and external to the Athletics Program (e.g., TeamPhysician, Dean of Student Affairs, Academic Dean, and FacultyAthletics Repre sentative). Either the student athlete or theother parties involved may request an extension of time to theDirector of Athletics, who will consider whether to grant theextension upon a showing of good cause. These proceedingsshall include an opportunity for the student athlete to presentevidence, as well as to review the results of the drug test. Theproceedings shall be confidential. The Hearing Panel will makea recommendation to the Director of Athletics regarding thesanction whose decision shall be final.

17. Medical ExceptionsThe NCAA and Siena College recognize that some bannedsubstances are used for legitimate medical purposes. Accord -ingly, the NCAA and Siena College allow exceptions to be madefor those participants with a documented medical historydemonstrating the need for regular use of such a drug. Excep -tions may be granted for substances included in the followingclasses of banned drugs: stimulants, beta blockers, diureticsand peptide hormones. Information regarding exceptions procedures can be found at www.ncaa.org/health-safety.

18. ConfidentialityEvery effort will be made to maintain confidentiality within theDrug-Testing and Substance-Abuse Awareness Program, whichhas been designed for the protection of all our participants aswell as others associated with the athletics program. Any infor-mation concerning a student athlete’s alleged or confirmeduse of banned substance solicited or received pursuant toimplementation of this Policy, shall be restricted to institutionalpersonnel and to parents or guardians as provided herein,except as required by law. The occasion could arise when SienaCollege is required, or is asked, to cooperate with law enforce-ment agencies in legal action. Under appropriate circumstances,these requests will be honored.

Additional InformationIf you have any questions regarding this program, please contact:

Joyce Eggleston Associate Director of Athletics/Senior Woman Administrator518-783-2450 • jeggleston@siena.edu

Tobacco BanUnder NCAA regulations, all tobacco use is prohibited duringpractice and competition for coaches, game officials and players.If a player is chewing tobacco, that player shall be disqualifiedfor the remainder of that practice or competition.

Athletic CommunicationsThe Siena College Athletic Communications Office is the publicity and media relations arm of the College’s intercollegiate athleticsprogram. The office is located in Room 115 of the Marcelle Athletic Complex.

Assistant Athletic Director for Communications, Jason Rich, can be reached at ext. 2411 or via e-mail at jrich@siena.edu.

PublicityThe Athletic Communications Office acts as the gatekeeperfor the athletic department’s media relations. The departmentcoordinates all media requests for interviews, photographsand social appearances.

In addition, the office makes every attempt to contact themedia in the immediate locale of each of its student athletesin an attempt to keep each player’s hometown well informedof all athletic happenings at Siena. The office is responsible forthe compilation and distribution of all statistics and recordsfor each of Siena’s 18 varsity sports.

The goals of the Athletic Communications Office are to effectivelycommunicate to the news media, and other interested groups,information about Siena’s athletic program. The office producesmedia guides, game-day programs, schedule cards and newsreleases as part of its daily activities and also maintains theofficial department website, www.SienaSaints.com. It is alsoresponsible for responding to news media inquiries as well asrequests for information made by professional scouts. Theother principal duty of the office is to serve as the College’sliaison to various athletic governing bodies such as the NCAA,ECAC, MAAC and NEC.

The Athletic Communications Office also keeps a personalinformation file on every student athlete at Siena College. Thefile is updated at the beginning of each season through theuse of a questionnaire.

Each student athlete will be asked to fill out the player biographyform for the Assistant Athletic Director for Communications.This form, which includes your past experience and achieve-ments in athletics, as well as personal information, such as yourintended major course of study at Siena, will be used extensively

by the Athletic Communications Office. Such uses includereleases for your hometown papers and media to keep themposted on your progress, as well as for use in media guides,game programs and other printed materials.

Your cooperation in filling out the forms completely is greatlyappreciated and results in improved recognition for all ourathletic programs. Remember, it is the Athletic CommunicationsDepartment which nominates student athletes for nearlyevery academic and athletic award.

This questionnaire also includes a grade point average releaseon the reverse side. The student athlete is not required to signthe release, but if they don’t sign it, s/he cannot be nominatedfor conference All-Academic or regional or national honors.

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All requests for interviews or photos will be handled solely bythe Athletic Communica tions Office. If a member of the mediacontacts a student athlete at his/her dorm or place of residencewithout permission from a member of the Athletic Communi -cations Office, refer that media member to the Athletic Commu -ni cations Department before answering any questions.

Media Guideline and Interview TipsThe following media guidelines should help you in dealing withthe news media, a process that is important to you, both educa-tionally and professionally, and to your team and its perceptionby the public, and to Siena College.

• Reporters, both print and electronic, are interested in reportingthe games and personalities as facts, and as they interpret thosefacts. The media, both print and electronic, is not necessarilythere to make you look good, nor are they there to make youlook bad. They have a job to do and it is important that youunderstand and cooperate whenever possible.

• Whether you realize it or not, you have a responsibility toSiena College, your coaches and teammates, as well as toyourself, to cooperate with the media. You are public figuresand role models by virtue of your participation in theCollege’s athletic program.

• Dealing with the news media can be a learning experience bywhich you develop communication skills that are not only help-ful in your intercollegiate career, but also to your professionaland business careers.

• You should never agree to an interview unless the interviewhas been arranged by the Athletic Communications Office.Your home telephone number will be not be given to themedia. This allows you to avoid contact with unauthorizedpersons who may attempt to gain and use information forgambling or other questionable purposes.

• If you have concerns about thereporter, his or her questions, or thetone of the interview, please see astaff person in the AthleticCommunications Office.

• Remember that the public’s accept-ance of you, your team, and theCollege is developed by the impres-sions made during the interviewprocess, the resulting stories andyour decorum.

• Be positive when talking about yourteammates, coaches and team. Praiseyour teammates. Avoid negatives.

• Be human. Let reporters see and learn of other things aboutyou besides your role as an athlete. Make sure the AthleticCommunica tions Office knows of those things, such as uniquesummer jobs, organi zations, awards, special class researchprojects, academic honors, hobbies, etc.

• Expect to be in a “fish bowl.” High-profile sports and theirparticipants are public figures and celebrities. Expect to losesome of your privacy.

• Assume you are “on the record.” When reporters are present,don’t say anything you would not want to see in print or onthe air. Don’t forget that microphones are extremely sensitiveand cameras have zoom lenses. If you can’t see them, assumeyou are being recorded.

• Treat a telephone interview as you would an in-person inter-view. Just because it may be more conversational, don’t do orsay things you wouldn’t do in a face-to-face interview.

• Be on time for scheduled interviews. If you can’t, call aheadand let the Assistant Athletic Director for Communicationsknow.

• Do not respond to a question that you do not wish to answer. Aproper response might be, “I’d rather not discuss that subject.”

• Don’t play referee. Avoid blaming officials. Let someone elsesay that call was wrong.

• If a story is written that is inaccurate, see the AthleticCommunications Office and state the facts.

Note: Student athletes may not comment about the expecta-tion that a particular recruit will sign with the College or how the recruit’s abilities will benefit the team. Under NCAArules, comments about recruits may not be made until asigned National Letter of Intent has been received by theAthletic Director.

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Appendix: Sample Absence Letter

Sample Letter Notifying Instructor of Class Absence for Intercollegiate Athletic Participation

Dear Professor:

Due to my commitment to the Siena Women’s Softball program, I wanted to let you know, in advance, of potential scheduleconflicts that may occur. Although the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference works to schedule games that will have a minimumamount of interference with class time, complete avoidance of absences is not possible. Highlighted below are dates and timesfor both home and away competition that will conflict with attendance in your course:

Day of Time of SA ReportCompetition Date Competition Time Opponent Location

WED. 3/29/2006 2:00PM 12:30PM ALBANY SIENA

THUR. 4/13/2006 2:00PM 12:30PM HOLY CROSS SIENA

THUR. 4/20/2006 4:00PM 2:30PM BUCKNELL SIENA

TUES. 5/2/2006 2:00PM 12:30PM SACRED HEART SIENA

WED. 5/3/2006 3:30PM 2:00PM COLGATE SIENA

Day of Departure Departure Date of Time of Return Est. ReturnDeparture Date Time Competition Competition Date Time Location

Thu 2/23/2006 4:45PM 2/24-2/26/06 TBA 2/27/2006 3:00PM Tampa, FL

Thu 3/9/2006 1:00PM 3/10-3/16/06 TBA 3/17/2006 12:00PM AL/NC/KY

Thu 3/23/2006 6:00AM 3/24-3/26/06 TBA 3/27/2006 10:00AM Macon, GA

Fri 3/31/2006 4:00pm 4/1/2006 1:00pm 4/1/2006 10:00PM Buffalo, NY

Tue 4/4/2006 10:00AM 4/4/2006 2:00PM 4/4/2006 10:00PM Burlington, VT

Tue 4/25/2006 11:00AM 4/25/2006 3:00PM 4/25/2006 10:00PM Hamden, CT

Fri 5/5/2006 6:00PM 5/6/2006 1:00PM 5/7/2006 9:00PM Fairfield, CT

I understand that it is my responsibility to make up any work that is missed and to come to you with any questions or concerns I may have, including scheduling conflicts involving tests and/or quizzes. Please do not hesitate contacting my Athletic AcademicAdvisor, Gail Picillo at 783-2993 with any questions or concerns. She is also available as a resource to proctor any missed exams/quizzes on your behalf. Further, I can assure you, that with the resources I am encouraged to take advantage of, I will not at anypoint in the semester compromise my education for athletics.

Student Athlete’s Printed Name

Student Athlete’s Signature

515 Loudon Road • Loudonville, NY 12211-1462

Gail Picillo - Athletic Academic Advisor - (518) 783-2993 - gpicillo@siena.edu - www.SienaSaints.com

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Men’s Basketball• Six MAAC championships and six NCAA Tournament appearances• Three NCAA Tournament victories (1989 vs. Stanford, 2008 vs.Vanderbilt and 2009 vs. Ohio State)• Six Postseason NIT appearances, including 1994 semifinals atMadison Square Garden• Edwin Ubiles became the first former Saint to play in an NBA game,appearing for the Washington Wizards during the 2011-12 season• Kenny Hasbrouck ’09 signed with the Miami Heat and is currentlyone of seven former student athletes playing basketball overseasprofessionally• Tay Fisher ’08 plays for the Harlem Globetrotters• O.D. Anosike ’13 led the nation in rebounding in 2011-12 and2012-13 and Ronald Moore ’10 led the country in assists in 2010

Men’s Lacrosse• Finished the 2011 season ranked No. 20nationally in both major polls• Won MAAC Championship in 2009 and2011, earning an NCAA Tournament bideach year• Won four consecutive MAAC regular-seasonchampionships and five in the past seven seasons. Over the past seven years, the Saintshave won 76 games – tied for the eighth mostin the nation• Brent Herbst ’10 became first Siena lacrosseplayer to be drafted by MLL• Bryan Neufeld ’12 was a two-time All-American Honorable Mention and cappedhis career with 156 goals – the most of anyDivision I player from the Class of 2012• Tom Morr ’12 was one of just 10 finalistsnationally for the prestigious Lowe’s SeniorCLASS Award

Women’s Basketball• 2001 MAAC Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance• Seven regular-season MAAC championships• Three WNIT appearances

Volleyball• Eight MAAC championships, including four of the last eight• Five NCAA Tournament appearances• Taylor Akana ’14 was named MAACOffensive Player of the Year as a sophomore

Baseball• Four MAAC championships, reached titlegame in 2008, 2011 and 2013• 1999 NCAA Tournament appearance• 37 players have signed professional contracts• John Lannan ’06 pitches for thePhiladelphia Phillies• Dan Paolini was drafted in the 10th Roundof the 2011 MLB Draft by the SeattleMariners after setting the MAAC all-timehome run record (54) in just three seasons and earning All-American honors as a sophomore and junior• Mike Fish was drafted in the 32nd Round of the 2013 MLB Draftby the Los Angeles Angels. Fish was named MAAC Player of theYear in 2013 and a Third Team ABCA All-American

Men’s Golf• Two MAAC championships and NCAA Tournament appearances• Don DeNyse III ’11 won the MAAC individual championship in2011 and advanced to the NCAA Tournament

Siena AthleticsSince Siena’s founding in 1937, athletics have played an important role in the development of its students and community.

In 1976, Siena’s athletics program was elevated to NCAA Division I status. With that move, the College committed itself to upgradingits program and making all teams competitive. After stops in the ECAC Metro and North Atlantic Conference, Siena moved to theMetro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) in 1989, where it has made its mark.

The ProgramSiena has won 36 MAAC Championships since joining the MAAC. In 2012-13, Siena boasted six Senior CLASS Award candidates, thirdmost in the nation behind Notre Dame and Florida State. Take a look at some of the accomplishments…

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Women’s Golf• 12 consecutive MAAC Tournament championships from 2001-2012and advanced to the NCAA Tournament for the first time in 2012• Honored by NCAA for posting multiyear Academic Progress Rates(APR) in the top-10 percent of all teams each of the past three years

Women’s Lacrosse• Five MAAC Tournament appearances, including each of the lastfour years• Won 2005 regular-season MAAC Co-Championship

Softball• Won first MAAC regular-season title in 2013 behind MAAC Coachof the Year Bill Lajeunesse • Junior Shannon Jones ’13 was named the MAAC Co-Player of theYear in 2012 and broke many of the program’s offensive records• Jessika-Jo Sandrini ’14 became the first player in school history, in2012 and 2013, to be named to two All-MAAC teams; she was aFirst Team selection as a hitter and a Second Team honoree forher pitching accolades

Swimming and Diving• Program earned scholar All-American status in 2013• Swam to a third-place finish at the MAAC Championships in 2010,its second best in program history• Posted six straight seasons with a .500 or better record• Brittany Povalko ’11 was an academic All-District selection in2011 after winning two MAAC titles and breaking the individualrecord in the 100 and 200 fly• Katie Carew ’12 was the MAAC’s national representative on theNCAA Student Athlete Advisory Committee. She was the league’sfemale nominee for the 2011 NCAA Sportsmanship award

Men’s Soccer• The team’s 3.38 GPA in 2012 was the 12th highest in the nation• Finished second in the MAAC in 2008 and 2010, equaling its bestleague finish ever• In 2012 defeated nationally ranked opponents Ohio State and Iona and also earned a win over Syracuse

Women’s Soccer• Captured its first MAAC Championship in 2010 and made its firstNCAA Women’s College Cup appearance• Started the 2010 season 12-0-0, ranking No. 25 nationally in theSoccer America poll and standing as the last undefeated, untiedteam in Division I• Finished as the 10th Most Improved Team in the country in 2008• Since the start of the 2007 season, the Saints have posted ahighly impressive 36-9-5 (.770)• Held a 15-game home unbeaten streak from 2009-11 and a 20-game non-league home win streak from 2007-12 (18-0-2)• Earned NSCAA Team Academic Award in 2012

Cross Country• Men’s and women’s programs earned USTFCCA All-Academic status in 2011• Both programs were honored by NCAA for posting multiyearAcademic ProgressRates (APR) in thetop-10 percent multi-ple times (men: 2010,2011 and 2012;women: 2010, 2011,2012 and 2013)

Men’s Tennis• Honored by NCAAfor posting multiyearAcademic ProgressRates (APR) in thetop-10 percent of all teams the past four years

Women’s Tennis• 2006 MAAC Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance• Honored by NCAA for posting multiyear Academic ProgressRates (APR) in the top-10 percent of all teams the past four years

Field Hockey• Program joins the new MAAC FieldHockey League in 2013

Water Polo• Won the 2011 Saints Cup for commu-nity service, campus activism and academic performance• Honored by NCAA for posting multiyear Academic Progress Rates(APR) in the top-10 percent of allteams in 2013

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4.0 CLUB4.0 CLUB Siena’s 4.0 club is for student athletes who recorded a perfect 4.0 grade-point averagein either the fall of 2012 or the spring of 2013. 4.0 club members are honored at aluncheon hosted by Siena President Fr. Kevin Mullen ’75, O.F.M., Ph.D. each spring.

DANIEL ALDERSTADMen’s Soccer, Management

MEGAN CAHILL*Women’s Golf, English

RYAN EGANMen’s Cross Country,Actuarial Science

BRITTANY FILIPWomen’s Tennis,Psychology

MANDY FERROSoftball, History

LIA GIZZARELLI*Women’s Cross Country,Biology

JOSEPH HOLMMen’s Tennis, Finance

CHRIS KEARNEYBaseball, Management

ADAM MYERSMen’s Soccer,Accounting

JANNIS OPALKAMen’s Soccer,Management

REBECCA ROBINSONWater Polo, English Education

MATAR RAHAMIM*Women’s Soccer,Accounting

STEPHANIE VIGGIANO*Softball, Accounting

VALERIE ZEFFIROSwimming and Diving,Biology

*Achieved a 4.0 both terms