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Walkersville High School

Handbook for Student Athletes and their Parents

2016-17

Tracey Franklin Michael Mummert Greg Keller Principal Athletic Director Assistant Principal

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Student - Athlete Contract

The purpose of this handbook is to provide a clear framework for our athletic programs.

Athletics can provide physical, emotional and educational challenges to the student-athlete. The

manner in which these challenges are met will determine the failure or the success of your effort.

The ultimate outcome will reflect not only on Walkersville High School as a whole but on you as a

person.

Participation in athletic programs is a privilege, not a right. To earn that privilege, athletes

must conduct themselves, on and off the field, as positive role models who exemplify good character.

As a student-athlete at Walkersville High School, you will be set apart from others in the eyes of the

staff, the student body and the community. You will earn the right to wear a Walkersville High

School uniform and to represent your school through actions, words and deeds. You will be closely

watched throughout our school community. The standards of character you will have to meet will

be higher than those met by the average student. You must take the responsibility to meet and

maintain these standards whether you are in or out of uniform.

Carefully read this handbook and discuss its contents with your parents/guardians.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

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Philosophy of Interscholastic Athletics

at Walkersville High School

This statement very briefly explains our attitude towards Walkersville High School

athletics. Interscholastic sports are a tool which can be used to teach and practice good citizenship

and to provide physical, emotional and educational challenges to the student-athlete. To this end,

we believe winning and losing is important only when considered in the context of how we play the

game and how we represent ourselves and our school under the pressure of competition. Therefore,

we believe the following:

--- Interscholastic athletics are an integral part of the education program

at Walkersville High School. Participation on sports teams will

promote desirable attitudes toward the importance of team work and

team unity, will promote social growth and maturation of all

individuals involved and will prepare participants for the

responsibilities of adult life.

--- Every student should have an opportunity to become involved in the

athletic program; if not as an athlete, then in other capacities such as

manager or statistician.

--- The coaches and participants should strive at all levels to develop

and display the attitudes of good sportsmanship, good citizenship and

loyalty to team and school.

--- The health and well-being of the participants are more important than

the outcome of any athletic contest.

At WHS we want to be recognized as exemplifying the principles and practices of winning

athletic programs with outstanding educational value. Our goals include teaching student-athletes

goal setting, teamwork, dedication, practice and determination, sacrifice, adherence to rules, and

leadership through their sports participation. We want our student athletes to have positive

experiences, and use the playing field to teach life-long lessons.

Our athletics programs produce student-athletes who exemplify good sportsmanship,

integrity, respect for others, commitment and dedication to goals, and the ability to work as a valued

member of a team. Athletics provide young people a positive opportunity to get involved and be

part of a team, to build self-esteem and character, and to learn that their futures are bright. Our

athletics program helps students to develop values and ethical standards.

Student athletes at WHS are challenged to identify, examine, and construct meaningful

values for a life of learning and responsible citizenship. Our programs set and communicate high

expectations for learning. Student athletes are given clear expectations regarding a wide range of

experiences and competencies, including academic performance, individual and community

responsibility, and commitment to team goals. Our programs help student-athletes reflect upon

successes and failures and seek to encourage integrity and fairness, respect for others and dedication

to goals.

General Conduct

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In order to set the example, not be the example, student/athletes should demonstrate good

behavior and attitudes at all times, in school and in the community. Since you are representing the

school by being on an athletic team, you are in the public eye. What you do casts a reflection on the

school and the coaching staff. Part of your eligibility is riding on your conduct. You, as an athlete,

cannot do some of the things other students do and stay on a team. To be part of a team, you must

learn to act like an athlete. Older members of the squad are to set examples and be leaders for the

rest of the team.

Any behavior that discredits any Walkersville team, its coaching staff, administration, or

school will result in disciplinary action to be proportional to the behavioral problem. The coaching

and administrative staff reserves the right to determine the severity of punishment, which could

range from reprimand to dismissal from the team.

Being a member of a Walkersville High School athletic team means that the WHS athletic

team must take precedence over all other outside activities. WHS team members must make the

commitment to attend all games, practices, bus rides, and required team activities. If you cannot

make this commitment, you should not try out for a WHS team. You may need to make a choice

between being a member of a WHS athletic team and another outside activity. Make this decision

before you try out for a WHS team. Walkersville High School Athletes are required to ride to all

events on a bus provided and must stay until the conclusion of the event. If you cannot dedicate

yourself to all team requirements, you should not try out for a WHS team. Each participant is

considered a member of the team until the team on which he/she is a member has completed the

season. A season is considered completed when the final team event has been completed. This

includes all post-season play and events beyond the regular season.

Sportsmanship and Citizenship

Sportsmanship is about self-discipline and being in control of your responses, and no athlete

is successful without those two attributes. All Walkersville High School athletes will be expected to

display conduct and sportsmanship above reproach whenever they represent Walkersville High

School in their practices, their contests or in any other related athletic activities. Some specific

violations of this statement would include fighting, thievery, excessive use of improper language,

misuse of school facilities and equipment, unsportsmanlike conduct, insubordination, and lying.

Student-athletes are considered representatives of Walkersville High School any time during

the sports season whether in the school, on the athletic field or in the community. The student-

athlete is a role model at all times and in all places during the sport season and must consider his/her

actions carefully.

Interscholastic Athletic Fee

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All Frederick County athletes must pay a nonrefundable fee for each team on which he or

she is a member. These fees must be paid one week after earning a position on the team. Fees

collected will contribute to the county athletic program to underwrite transportation, coaches

salaries, and officials’ fees.

Academic Eligibility

A Student to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities must have the

minimum of a 2.00 grade point average with no “F” grades. Grades used to

determine eligibility will be recorded on report cards and interim reports. Grades

used to determine ineligibility will be nine week term grades only.

Eligibility/ineligibility for fall extracurricular activities is determined by the fourth

term grades from the previous year.

The student may practice during the ineligible period, but may not accompany the

team, stand on the sideline, sit on the bench, participate in any competition

(including scrimmages) or be excused from class for the activity concerned.

Ineligible athletes are considered spectators at all home and away events. Fall sports

eligibility will be determined by grades posted during the final marking period in

June. Athletic fees will not be refunded to ineligible athletes or athletes that quit the

team.

** Eligibility may be used as a team selection criteria.

We strongly encourage student athletes/parents/guardians to monitor grades.

Grades can be accessed using Pinnacle On-line Grading system:

https://grades.fcps.org

Requirements for Participation

Prior to a student’s participating in any tryout, practice or contest with a team, he/she must

supply the coach with the following items. No one will be allowed to participate without this

information on file.

1. FCPS and MPSSAA Required Paperwork To Participate In Interscholastic Athletic packet

2. WHS handbook for Student Athletes and their Parents.

3. Coaches’ individual contracts

4. Football Insurance - The Board of Education offers an insurance-policy option which students

participating in football may purchase. Students must show proof of similar or superior

coverage and/or purchase the football insurance through the Board of Education. There is no

guarantee that all medical bills and expenses will be borne by the football insurance. There are

exclusions and limitations that are delineated in the football insurance brochure that every

football candidate should receive from his respective coach. If an injury occurs, parents and/or

guardians of athletes should anticipate the distinct possibility of incurring medical expenses that

will not be covered by insurance. The football insurance options available through the school

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system, if selected, will cover students participating in football only. Insurance for school time

and other sports must be purchased separately.

5. Interscholastic athletic fee - FCPS requires each student pay a nonrefundable fee for each team

in which he or she is a member.

In addition, the M.P.S.S.A.A., which governs interscholastic athletics in the state of

Maryland for the State Board of Education, imposes the following restrictions on students

participating in athletics:

1. Students shall be officially registered, as required by Maryland school laws and

attending a member MPSSAA school. They may represent only the school in which

they are registered and at which it is anticipated they will complete their graduation

requirements.

2. Students who are 19 years old or older as of August 31 are ineligible to participate in the

interscholastic athletics for the school year ahead.

3. Students may participate in interscholastic athletic contests a maximum of four seasons

in any one sport in grades 9,10,11 and 12.

4. Students legally transferred to another school may participate in that school’s program.

“Legally transferred” means a change of residence or a transfer from one school to

another by action approved by the local superintendent of schools.

5. Students shall maintain amateur status. Any student who has not used or is not using his

athletic skill as a player for financial gain, or who has not competed under an assumed

name as a player, shall be considered an amateur. Employment as an instructor,

counselor, or official may not be considered a violation. Students may not apply for

reinstatement until at least 60 days after the date of the violation. A student who has

ceased to be an amateur may not represent his/her school in interscholastic athletics.

6. Graduates of high school are not eligible to practice with or participate on interscholastic

sports teams. However, they may participate in the remaining athletic contest of

that semester. Students are considered graduates when they have completed the work

required for graduation and are declared graduated by the local board of education.

7. Middle, intermediate or junior high school students are not eligible to compete or

practice with high school teams.

Insurance

Students participating in the interscholastic athletic programs are required to be covered by

some form of medical insurance. This requirement may be satisfied as follows:

1. Participation in an employer-provided medical insurance plan which shows dependent

coverage and is verified in the form of a group enrollment card issued by the insurance

company evidencing family coverage.

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2. Participation in an individual medical insurance policy which provides dependent

coverage and verified by an enrollment card issued by the insurance company evidencing

family coverage.

3. Participation in the 24-hour school insurance program offered by the Board of Education

with the exception of football, (see #4 below).

4. Purchase the special football insurance plan made known to the parents by the Frederick

County Public Schools (football players only)

5. Any form of medical treatment required as the result of the student’s participation in

athletics is the responsibility of the parent or guardian.

6. Costs involving injuries or treatment resulting from athletics are the responsibility of the

parents or guardians.

7. An athlete receiving professional medical treatment cannot resume practice or play until

the doctor gives written permission.

Team Transportation

1. All teams should be transported to and from a contest on a vehicle provided by FCPS unless

prior permission has been given.

2. High School athletes must make a commitment to the team and know that the team takes

precedence over all other activities except for family, religion, and education. This commitment

includes transportation to and from all events.

3. All players are to ride with the team unless written permission from the parent is submitted and

approved 24 hours in advance by the coach, the athletic director, and the administrator in charge

of athletics. This will be limited to special situations only. Employment is not an exception to

this rule.

4. If authorized by the principal and with written parental permission, students may travel in

privately-owned vehicles driven by Frederick County Board of Education employees or parents.

Approval is required each time a student travels by a privately owned vehicle.

5. If authorized by the principal and with written permission, students may drive themselves in a

privately-owned vehicle. Approval is required each time a student travels by a privately owned

vehicle.

6. Principals shall neither authorize nor permit students to travel to activities in vehicles driven by

other students.

7. Students may not travel with other students.

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8. With coaches permission and proper sign out procedure, student athletes may be excused from

riding the bus home from scheduled events.

9. Parents/Guardians/Athletes are responsible for transportation to and from practices and contests.

Athletes must be picked up within 15 minutes following the conclusion of practices and contests.

If this is a problem, team membership may be revoked.

10. Golf, Cross Country, Basketball and sometimes other sports practice off campus, therefore,

students must provide their own transportation to these practice facilities.

Attendance

Each athlete is required to attend school and classes regularly. On the day of an event (game

or practice) an athlete must attend for the entire day; in the case of extenuating circumstances, the

school administration may waive this rule. Students who are absent or arrive and are admitted to

school after 9:00 a.m. or leave school before school is dismissed are ineligible to compete or practice

that day unless they returned with a doctors note or have received approval from the principal.

Morning work/study and FCC students must attend afternoon classes until time of dismissal or are

ineligible to participate. Those students who have a doctor’s appointment must have written

permission from the doctor to practice or compete. Those students who feel ill in the morning and

arrive in school after 9:00 a.m. will not be granted permission to play or practice.

Drug, Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Paraphernalia Policy

Alcohol, drugs and tobacco use/abuse are extremely serious offenses. Not only is the quality

of life for the student-athlete in jeopardy, but the quality of life of innocent by-standers may be in

jeopardy as well. Team members depend of each other to be mentally and physically prepared to

give their best effort every day. This cannot happen if the student-athlete is using alcohol, drugs (not

prescribed by a physician) or tobacco.

FCPS Reg. No. 400-8.

This policy is included in the FCPS athletic packet.

Student Conduct

Students holding leadership positions or representing the school through athletics who

commit an offense classified as a serious, unlawful act in the community or a serous suspendable

offense may be removed from the team. Arrest, conviction, or legal judgment is not required. Any

player ejected from a contest will be suspended for the next contest. Ejection from a contest for any

reason will be considered a violation of proper sportsmanship. Any athlete who is removed from a

game or contest by an official will be suspended for the next game. Repeated offenses will result in

dismissal from the team for a season. The WHS coaching staff holds each athlete to a

high standard and expects all team members to conduct themselves in a

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legal and responsible way. Behavior that is deemed disruptive or detrimental to the team/school can bring consequences ranging from diminished playing time to dismissal from the team. Coaches reserve the right to discipline athletes for actions detrimental to the team/athletic program/school.

Classwork/Make-up Responsibility

As a student-athlete, you have a responsibility to both yourself and your teammates to

complete all classroom assignments successfully. In the event you miss all or part of a class, it is

your responsibility to contact your teacher and make up any work. Failure to do so may jeopardize

academic eligibility. Squad Membership

The coach of each sport is responsible for the determination of squad membership. Once an

athlete becomes a member of a squad, he/she becomes ineligible to participate in another sport

during that season. Once a student begins to practice in a sport and voluntarily “quits” the team,

he/she is automatically ineligible to participate in any other sport during that season unless he/she is

released by the previous coach and the Athletic Director. There will be no refund of athletic fee.

Seniors are not eligible for junior varsity competition in any sport. Juniors and seniors are eligible

for “B” level competition in cross country, wrestling, track, swimming, and tennis. Playing time is a

coaches decision and non negotiable. Our administration will not entertain calls or letters

concerning playing time. A poor attitude will affect playing time. Student athletes may not miss a

practice or athletic contest without prior coach approval.

My Space/FaceBook/Internet Sites

Please make sure you talk to your sons(s) and daughter(s) about all Internet Sites.

Information posted ( in the form of pictures or words) pertaining to alcohol, drugs, or anything else

not suitable for a representative of Walkersville High School can result in a student-athlete being

removed from a team. We strongly encourage parents/guardians to talk with their children about

internet and social media usage.

Equipment Responsibility

All uniforms and equipment are given to student-athletes strictly on a loan basis for the

duration of the sports season. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to maintain and return all

equipment and uniforms issued to him/her in the same condition in which it was received. Any

damage to or loss of equipment/uniforms/gear will be considered the direct financial responsibility

of the student-athlete responsible for its care. Student-athletes are responsible for returning the same

items that were issued. Parents, guardians, and athletes will be financially responsible for any

equipment or uniforms which are lost, stolen, or misplaced during the time the student/athlete is

responsible for them. The price of replacing these items will be the actual cost to the school for

purchasing new replacement items. Until any charges for lost or damaged equipment have been

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paid, the student-athlete will not receive a report card, be eligible to participate on any other high

school athletic team, or receive any end of season rewards. The students will launder practice gear

and personal effects following the instructions on the label or given by the coach. Uniforms are to be

worn only for actual contests or on special occasions designated by the coach. Use of uniforms at

any other time will be considered a violation of proper care and maintenance of equipment.

Unfortunately we do have cases where uniforms, cell phones, I-pods, and valuables have

been stolen from our locker rooms. Therefore, student-athletes should make sure they lock

everything in their lockers or not bring these items to school.

Parking

Parking on the road beside the gym or on the grass is illegal. This road is a fire lane and

must be accessible by emergency equipment. Athletes are to be picked up after practice in the front

parking lot or the gym parking lot. Athletes may not move their vehicles from the front parking lot

to the gym parking lot until after 2:45 pm.

Inclement Weather Procedures

Frederick County Board of Education policy states that in the event schools are closed due to

inclement weather conditions, all after-school activities are automatically canceled. These after-

school activities include practices, contests, or other events.

Late and/or Missing Practice

Your teammates depend on you each and every day of the season. When you are late to

practice or miss practice entirely without proper reason, you are failing to meet one of the most basic

responsibilities you have to your team. You should notify your coach prior to any practice you must

miss and give the coach a full explanation of the necessity for your absence. Each coach will decide

on the consequences for all unexcused lates to practices and absences.

Outside Team Membership

Outside participation shall not conflict with the practice or contest schedule of a

Walkersville High School athletic team including district, regional and state championship play.

The coach and principal must authorize in writing in advance an absence from a school scheduled

practice, competition, or team required event. Failure to comply with this rule will result in

dismissal from the team. WHS athletic teams take precedence over all outside athletic participation.

Referrals From Class/ Suspension

Referrals and suspensions are related issues in which the student-athlete is seen by all as a

role model. Both will be considered violations of proper citizenship. A wide difference can exist in

the nature of referrals; the handling of this area will be left to the discretion of the coach. During the

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term of any school suspension, the student-athlete will be ineligible to compete or practice with the

team. This includes accompanying the team to away contests and being on the sidelines/bench for

home contests.

Seasons

Fall Season August -November

Winter Season November - March

Spring Season March – June

General Rules

1. Students are not allowed to stay after school for evening contests or practices unless

under the supervision of a coach.

2. All athletes must leave the commons area and school building at 2:30 unless

they are under the direct supervision of a contracted coach.

3. All athletes are required to purchase locks for their athletic lockers and keep

their equipment and personal items locked up at all times to prevent theft.

3. Students are not allowed to wear spikes inside the school building.

4. Athletes are expected to help in keeping the facilities clean.

5. On game days, all team members must be neatly dressed ( as described by coaches)

during the school day and while traveling to a contest.

6. The weight room is off limits unless under the direct supervision of a coach/teacher.

7. Athletes are not excused from physical education classes on the day of games.

8. More specific rules may be given by the coach/supervisor of each particular event.

Hazing

At WHS we have zero tolerance for any type of hazing activity. Our school promotes,

practices, and enforces an anti-hazing policy. Any hazing activity should be reported immediately.

Awards Program

The minimum criteria for awarding a school athletic letter or other similar award must

include the following: (1) the participant must complete the season in good standing; (2) the

participant must fulfill all team related obligations including practices and games; (3) must be

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academically eligible to compete; (4) must attend all playoff/postseason competitions; (5) the coach

may establish more specific requirements with the approval of the athletic director and principal.

The following basic guidelines have been established to govern awarding letters to students

who participate in varsity athletics at Walkersville High:

Any student who fulfills the necessary requirements in any one sport will be presented a

varsity “W”. Each additional sport in which the student is a letter winner will earn an emblem to

insert on the letter.

General Guidelines

1. To receive a varsity letter, individuals must compete at the varsity level.

2. Any senior who has shown supreme effort, has been a member for two consecutive

years and has not received a letter in any sport, is eligible for a letter at the discretion

of the coach.

3. A manager may receive a letter after serving two (2) years. The ninth grade is the

first year that may be counted toward this requirement.

4. Ninth grade students are eligible for a letter providing they participate on the varsity

team and meet the requirements for that sport.

5. Specific guidelines for each sport will vary according to the sport. More specific

requirements will be spelled out by the coach of that particular sport.

What your letter means: The foremost prize that every athlete desires to win is his or her monogram, better known today as a “Letter”.

The young athletes who bear this stamp of achievement on their chests have earned the respect and praise of their peers and

community.

Anything you possess is valued by what it costs, and this is the reason most people treasure their school

Letter so highly. To earn a Letter you must first earn the right to wear it, which means you have paid for your Letter with time,

effort, sweat and sacrifice.

A Letter represents long hard days of practice and the grueling contests. It represents loyalty and the

unselfish faithfulness of each athlete while in pursuit of a definite goal. It recalls cherished memories of experiences with coaches

that worked, drilled and planned daily to develop the athletic ability you possess. Coaches who taught you the power of

teamwork.

It represents each individual game, specific opponents, and the strategic moments of every contest you took

part in. In reminds you of the trips you made, the jokes that were cracked, scenes in the locker room, all the sore muscles, and the

sounds of the crowd. All this and more is represented in your Letter.

Last and far from least, your Letter is the stamp of approval or seal of recognition from your alma mater

signifying your athletic achievement. Your Letter represents the purposes and the ideals for which your school stands. You are

the proud possessor of something that every student and every follower of athletics envies and admires. The Letter is yours to

wear whenever and wherever you choose. When wearing your Letter always conduct yourself in a manner reflecting the ideals

and spirit of your school. Your Letter should be a perpetual spring of inspiration and a constant stream of pleasant memories.

Wear your Letter proudly……..It represents: Honor, dedication, determination, hard work, loyalty, tradition, high ideals, athletic ability, achieved goals, praise,

approval, commitment, cherished memories, recognition, and teamwork.

Did you know? *The awarding of Monograms originated in the mid 1880’s.

*The first chenille letter was presented to an athlete by Coach Amos Alonzo

Stagg.

Hall of Fame

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Walkersville High School initiated a Hall of Fame in the year 1983-84. In this way the

school has honored the outstanding athlete or team each year. To qualify for this honor, the athlete

or team must meet the following requirements:

1. Win an individual State Championship or be named

1st team All State

or

2. Earn two of these honors in a sports season:

1st Team All League

1st Team All Area

Activity Probation

At the discretion of the Principal, a student-athlete may be placed on probation,

suspended, or removed from the team when the student-athlete is involved in a breech of the general

policy section of the student-athlete handbook. If a second breech of general policy occurs within

one (1) calendar year of being placed on activity probation or suspension, the student-athlete is

removed from participation in Walkersville High School’s athletic program for a length of time to

be determined by the Principal.

Parental Questions and Concerns

Student athletes and parents should make every attempt to first contact the head coach of

their son/daughter’s sport in order to resolve any concerns that may arise during the course of the

season. Please refrain from expressing your concerns at practices, events or games. This usually is

not a good time or place to express concerns. Utilize a 24 hour rule meaning no conversation should

take place until 24 hours have passed after an incident or situation that may have caused concern.

This usually leads to a more construction conversation. The first discussion should be between the

player and the coach. This meeting can serve as a tremendous learning situation. The next

communication must be between the parent/guardian and the coach. Parents/guardians must make

an appointment with the coach to discuss concerns. Team selection and playing time are a coaches

decision and non negotiable. The WHS administration will not entertain calls or letters concerning

team selection, playing time, other athletes, or team strategy.

Admission To Sporting Events

All athletes are encouraged to support the other teams that represent Walkersville High

School. Rules and policies regarding admission to these contests are as follows:

a. Members of the team are admitted free to home contests when their team is

participating.

b. Season tickets are available at 75% of the single admission price. Tickets

are available from the athletic office.

No one will be admitted to contests without the purchase of a ticket or showing his/her

discount card to the ticket sellers at the game.

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Season Tickets

Season tickets are available at 75% of the adult single admission cost. You may purchase

the adult season tickets from the Walkersville High School office one week prior to the first home

game. Season tickets may also be purchased at the first home game. No season tickets will be

sold after the first home game.

Family Season Pass- A family can obtain a season pass for the parents, brothers

and sisters, and any family members of the athlete living in the household. The purchasers

will need to provide the name of the family members when purchasing the family pass.

Your paid or complimentary admission (including all passes) to all events entitles you to one

entrance. If you exit an event for any reason, you must pay to reenter.

All WHS Schedules can be found at

www.frederickcountycmc.org

The Student Athlete

Interscholastic athletics support the academic mission of the school and therefore serve as an integral

part of a good educational program. Athletic programs provide valuable lessons on many practical

situations such as teamwork, sportsmanship, winning, losing, and dedication to task. Through participation

in WHS sports programs, students also learn self-discipline, build self-confidence, and develop qualities

which will enable them to become responsible adults and productive citizens.

The student athlete shall:

Understand that membership and participation on an interscholastic athletic team is a privilege

and not a right.

Abide by all rules, policies, and procedures as set forth by the school, county, and state.

Set high standards of accomplishment by demonstrating exemplary attitude, positive work

habits, and a level of fitness commensurate with the activity.

Be cognizant of the fact that as a member of an athletic team, everything you do is a reflection

of your family, school, and community.

Be respectful and accountable for personal and school property whether at home or away.

Demonstrate a sense of school loyalty and pride by maintaining expected academic standards

and by participating in or supporting other school functions.

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NCAA Eligibility All athletes who are planning to participate in NCAA Division I or II athletics as a freshman must

complete the NCAA Clearinghouse application and be certified before participation. It is advised

that the application be completed before the senior year. The applications are available online at

ncaaclearinghouse.com.

S.A.T. Test Dates All students are strongly urged to take the SAT and ACT tests before the end of the 10

th grade year.

See your guidance counselor for details on test dates and how to register. You must register a month

in advance of each test.

Boosters Club Every year, the WHS Booster Club spends a great deal of time, effort and money in support of the

athletic programs at Walkersville High School. They need your support. Your sons and daughters

deserve your support. Please consider joining this organization and volunteering some time at

activities to support our student athletes and programs at WHS. Contact any boosters member or

Mike Mummert if you are interested in joining or helping this group.

Final Thoughts The foundation of a successful program is commitment. It takes s HUGE commitment in order to

be successful in high school athletics! The success that you and the team experience, is directly

related to the effort in which each individual athlete puts forth. Interscholastic events are an

extension of the classroom, and that all lessons are best learned when the proper respect is accorded

to all. Please, let your good sportsmanship show during the contests.

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Walkersville High School

Mike Mummert, Athletic Director

Dear Athlete:

The privilege you have won to be part of the interscholastic team at our school is a true extension of

your work in the classroom. We hope you will benefit as much from your athletic experience as you

do from your academic endeavors.

A challenge we face annually is striving for sportsmanship. As a high school athlete, the positive

values learned on the playing fields now will last a lifetime. Therein is the educational value of high

school athletics. If we ever lose focus on that fact, then these activities are not worth sponsoring.

We are engaged in a statewide campaign to improve sportsmanship. The program is designed to

reinforce the need for high levels of sportsmanship, ethics, and integrity in competition, and your

help as an athlete representing our school is strongly needed to make a difference in our community.

As an athlete, you are constantly in the public eye. You are a leader of today. Many people look to

your display on the field as a source of community pride. Many young people in our school and

community look to you as a role model they would like to emulate. That is why good

sportsmanship is so important. The example you provide sets the standard of behavior by everyone

associated with our program.

Please take time to review the following responsibilities and guidelines, stating the example we

expect our student-athletes to display as leaders in the school. We hope these guidelines will become

part of your goals in preparing for the upcoming season.

Respect your opponents as fellow athletes and worthy competitors; like you, they have worked hard

to represent their school.

Respect your teammates. Everyone makes a contribution to the team in his or her own way. Respect

everyone’s effort.

Respect your coaches for their efforts in molding the team that represents WHS.

Respect officials for their efforts in keeping the game within a set of boundaries. Recognize that a

neutral observer of an event will not always agree with your perceptions.

Respect yourself. What you do is a reflection on you, your school and your family.

Never Forget To Respect the Game!

We hope the upcoming season is a rewarding one for you!

Sportsmanship Guidelines for Athletes:

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1. Accept seriously the responsibility and privilege of representing the school and community.

2. Treat opponents with the respect that is due them as guests and fellow humans.

3. Shake hands with opponents and wish them good luck before the contest.

4. Exercise self-control at all times, accepting decisions and abiding by them.

5. Respect the judgment of the officials and their interpretations of the rules.

6. Only the captain should communicate with the officials regarding clarification of a ruling.

7. Accept both victory and defeat with pride and compassion, never being boastful or bitter.

8. Congratulate the opponents in a sincere manner following either victory or defeat.

9. Cooperate with the coach and fellow athletes in trying to promote sportsmanship.

10. Welcome the opportunity to discuss the rules and strategies of the contest with parents and

friends so they can better understand and appreciate the finer points of the game.

Walkersville High School

Mike Mummert, Athletic Director Dear Parent:

Our school has joined a statewide campaign to promote sportsmanship at our events. It is important

to the educational nature of these events to stress the type of exemplary behavior that should be

exhibited by all coaches, players and spectators at our events.

The values learned in athletic competition are ones that last for a lifetime. The positive actions by a

coach, athlete or spectator at an event can influence how our school is perceived in our own

community and the community of those schools we meet on the field of play.

That is why we have joined the state campaign. We want to raise our level of expectation in our

own community, so we can continue to take pride in our athletic teams.

We are asking for your support in this effort by emphasizing to your son or daughter what is

expected of them as a competitor or spectator at an athletic event. After all, such events are an

extension of the school day, and we should expect the same type of respectful behavior exhibited in

the athletic arena as we do in the classroom.

We ask that you regularly discuss sportsmanship, ethics and integrity in all areas of life, with your

children at the earliest possible age. With all the attention in this world given to poor behavior, it is

essential that good sportsmanship be applauded at all times.

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It is also important to be good role model, so we ask that you set a good example when in the stands

at an event. It is only through these efforts that we can clearly communicate what is acceptable

behavior.

Please also consider the thoughts that our children are bombarded with daily - that winning is

considered everything. Help them to realize that winning as a goal itself is failure oriented, because

at least half of the participants won’t achieve it. Success is oriented in the development of a skill,

and should make a person feel good about themselves - win or lose.

We urge you to take a few minutes to review the responsibilities and guidelines for sportsmanship

we expect our spectators to follow at athletic events. We hope that your positive example will help

set the tone for those around you so we may all enjoy the games our athletic teams are involved in.

We look forward to serving you in the year ahead, and appreciate your continued support.

Sportsmanship Guidelines for Spectators

1. Know and demonstrate the fundamentals of sportsmanship.

2. Respect, cooperate and respond enthusiastically to our cheerleaders.

3. Censure fellow spectators who display negative behavior.

4. Respect the property of the school and the authority of school officials.

5. Show respect for an injured athlete when he/she is removed from the contest.

6. Do not applaud errors by opponents or penalties inflicted upon them.

7. Do not heckle, jeer or distract members of the opposing team.

8. Never criticize the athletes or coaches for the loss of a contest.

9. Respect the judgment and strategy of the coach. Refrain from being a second guesser.

10. Avoid profane language and obnoxious behavior which are contrary to sportsmanship.

11. Applaud at the end of the contest for performances of all participants.

12. Parents/Guardians/Spectators are not permitted on the fields, courts, mats, tracks, etc. during

practices or contests without the coaches permission.

WHS Parents/Guradians – Get Involved

Join the Athletic Boosters

Volunteer to Help

Be a Team Parent

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Honor the Game

Our athletes have a right to a sports experience free of inappropriate adult behavior.

Know Your Role

Be a positive and encouraging supporter.

Cheer for good plays on both teams.

You’re not the coach. Don’t shout out instructions.

You’re not the official. Don’t offer your opinion on the officiating.

It’s your job to help your child keep everything in perspective. That means keeping everything in

perspective for yourself, too. Model the virtues you wish to see in your children, practice good

sportsmanship and remain adults in trying situations. Cheer for WHS not against our opponents.

Meet victory or defeat with grace.

Know Your Child’s Goals

Ask your son or daughter, “Why are you playing?” and “What are your goals?”.

If your goals are different from theirs, DROP YOURS AND ADOPT THEIRS!

Know The Facts

Nearly 7 million boys and girls play high school sports.

Only 126,000 NCAA student-athletes receive either a partial or full athletic scholarship

If you compare total funds available for academic scholarships vs. athletics scholarships, you’ll find

much more money is available for academics.

If paying for college is your goal, you might want to focus on your child’s classroom average

instead of his/her points per game average.

Know the Big Picture

Help your child bounce back from disappointments in sports. It’s good preparation for life.

Remember to emphasize values like teamwork, discipline, and responsibility.

WINNING COMES AND GOES, BUT VALUES REMAIN.

See sports as one of many enriching activities your child participates in – not the focus of his/her

life.

Before the Game

Release your child to the game. Remember it’s his/her experience, not yours.

Make a commitment to honor the game and be a good sport, no matter what the outcome, no matter

what the officials do, and no matter what anyone else does.

During the Game

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Don’t give advice to your child or other players during the game.

When it comes to officiating, silence is golden. Be respectful of the referee’s decisions

If you are a parent, try to be a “team” fan, not a “my kid” fan.

Be a good role mode, both through your own actions and by censuring those around you

whose behavior is unbecoming.

Model the type of behavior you’d like you child to have. Be calm, confident, and positive.

After the Game

Tell your child, “I love watching you play.”

Thank the officials for doing a difficult job and the coaches for their efforts.

Give your child the space he/she needs to recover from the game.

Refrain from questioning the coaches actions. That can undermine the coaches authority.

How to Honor the Game

Set a good example by modeling the behavior you’d like to see.

Show respect for all people involved in the game, including the officials, coaches, players,

opponents, and opposing fans.

Avoid making negative comments about your child’s coach, particularly in front of your child.

People will not remember the final score, but they will remember the person in Section Three who

embarrassed himself.

Encourage other parents to Honor the Game. If someone is yelling at the officials, make it your

job to remind them to Honor the Game.

Parents

Respect the fact that all athletes are someone’s son or daughter.

Respect coaches and their decisions. Remember their job performance is on display at every game.

Very few professions are so openly observed and publicly critiques. Second guessing their work

does not provide a positive atmosphere for the player, coach and parents.

Respect a time and place to air concerns with their coach. After a game or practice in not the best

time. An appointment is necessary. Playing time, other athletes, and strategies are a coaches

decision.

Respect your son or daughter by realistically assessing their skills. Don’t relive your experiences

through them.

Respect the educational component of school athletics. Remind your son or daughter that there is

many times more money available for academic aid to college then there is for athletic aid.

Fans

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Respect all athletes because they are representative of their school. They are not the enemy but

fellow competitors in athletic games designed to mold character.

Respect all opponents along with their symbols, traditions and heritage. That includes student-

athletes, coaches, cheerleaders, mascots, bands, signage, logos, etc. They are supporting their team

as you are supporting your team.

Respect all fans as they are merely encouraging their teams as you are encouraging your team.

Respect your country, its flag and anthem. Recognize our blessings as a nation allow us the ability to

compete in today’s contest.

Respect officials and the role they need to play. The game needs them in order to be contested.

Remember calls go both ways and we should respect their honest assessment of the rules.

As much as parents/guardians desire to become involved in their childrens athletic experience, they

must give them the space to have the experience on their own. Sports illustrated for Kids surveyed

readers, and the young athletes offered frank, even blunt, advice to parents, paraphrased below:

“Please don’t coach. Don’t tell me how to do this or that in the car to the game. Don’t yell

instructions at me from the sidelines. Encouragement is fine, but not instruction. It’s distracting. And

it makes me look inadequate.”

“Please don’t try to get me psyched up for the game by talking about winning – let’s get ‘em

tonight! Bring home a winner! I can’t control if we will win or lose. Instead offer encouragement I

can control – Do your best! Play hard!”

“After a loss I will bring up the game on my own if I want to. But you can be helpful. Please don’t

let me beat myself up, and don’t blame a loss on a teammate, the coach or a referee.”

Never Forget To Respect The Game