Code of Conduct/Health/Supplements
2-29-12
Q: We have a player that did not dress because of grades last nighty in our 1st tournament game. Does he remain ineligible for the remainder of the WIAA BB tournament. At mid term our code states they become eligible as soon as they correct the grade. At the end of the quarter or semester we follow the 1 week or 15 day scenario. Can't find this in the book and want to make sure we follow procedure - I believe they are ineligible for the remainder of the tournament. Please confirm.
A: There are three types of rules: NFHS & Season Regulations, Academic, and Code of Conduct. 1) If an athlete is ineligible for behavior (p. 39, Article VII, Section 3), the athlete is out of the entire tournament (p. 39, VII-3-D). 2) If an athlete is ineligible because of an ejection, it is the result of an NFHS rule and Season Regulation and he/she may return to the tournament once the ejection penalty is served. 3) If an athlete is academically ineligible and your code of conduct allows return, the athlete may return on the 16th scheduled school day if two or more F's (p. 36, V-2-A-1) or when your code of conduct allows if less than two F's.
Keep in mind that athletes who are ineligible during the WIAA tournament (for any reason) may not appear in uniform, participate in warm-ups, and may not participate in the awards ceremony at the WIAA tournament (p. 39, VII-3-E). In this question and situation, the athlete may return when they become academically eligible. Always apply your code as written.
12-15-11
Q.: We have some athletes that made some poor decisions resulting in having been suspended for code of conduct violations. We received a request from a parent of one of the athletes requesting that one of the dates which is parent's night is skipped and the suspension is applied to the following game instead. This is not something we have any interest in doing and we will deny the request regardless of this inquiry.
I am writing though to see if there is specific WIAA wording or regulations in one of the handbooks that prevents schools from picking and choosing which contests a student athlete will be suspended from. If we were to have that backing along with our current reasoning, I feel the parents might accept the decision and see that it really was out of our hands.
A.: Students who have violated the code of conduct are ineligible as soon as the school becomes aware of the violation. They are in eligible until they have served the required penalty completely. Therefore, the number of contests to be missed by the penalty must be served consecutively. Should a contest be cancelled due to weather or some other reason, it does not count since the opportunity was not available to your athletes and may be made up on a different day later in the season. If a contest is not completed (rain suspension in baseball), it does not count since it was not completed as well.
Schools may not pick and choose which games they will apply them. I'm sure you can imagine how that would be used to manipulate wins and losses. I would also direct your attention to Article I of the Rules of Eligibility (p. 31) and strongly encourage you to review Section 5 for use of an ineligible athlete. Simply stated, all contests in which an ineligible athlete appears shall be forfeit – in this case, until the suspension has been served. Related narrative and interpretation of the rule can be found in Article II-I of Rules At A Glance.
4-24-10
Q.: If an athlete has a code of conduct violation [drinking], is this athlete eligible for any post season all conference awards?
A.: Your message references Code of Conduct procedures and conference selection procedures. The mem- ber schools of the WIAA require a code of conduct with minimums. However, many schools have a code of conduct which is more stringent than the minimums required. Conferences and coaches determine the selection process for conference awards. The WIAA member schools do not determine those procedures at the state level, but rather at the conference level. Therefore, your best resource is your local athletic director as our office is not familiar with the code of conduct which you refer or the conference selection process.
3-15-10
Q.: A student breaks our athletics code and self refers. Code says he misses five basketball games. The season is ending and we are into WIAA tournament playoffs prior to five games being played. If he is suspended early in the tournament games, can he rejoin the team after his suspension is served and we are still alive in the tournament?
A.: If a student is ineligible at the beginning of the WIAA tournament for code of conduct violations, that student is ineligible for the rest of the tournament (p. 39, Art. VII, Sect. 2, para D). If a student is ineligi- ble for academic reasons, that student may return after becoming academically eligible.
Q.: Does the WIAA condone a basketball team (after a victory) from joining their parents and some admin. peo- ple at a local bar from celebrating a victory even if only the adults drink?
A.: Our member schools do not have a rule against this type of activity; however, your initial reaction is understandable. Appearances can pose problems in the community and our office would urge caution. I suggest talking it over with your principal/administration and see where your school wishes to line up. Students and parents can be vulnerable if they even act silly and just "pretend" to be consuming alcohol, etc. They will be in the public eye. They may also feel pressured by friends to provide or participate.
Q.: I believe that I read in a recent WIAA newsletter that the WIAA is considering making athletes with tattoo's cover them in some way. Is my memory correct? Is anything being considered regarding this?
A.: The playing rules of sports are determined by the National Federation of High School Associations (NFHS). While the WIAA office and our member schools are involved in the process of the review and determination of rules in the sports recognized by our member schools, the WIAA does not determine by itself the rules of sports. I am unaware of tattoos being illegal in all sports, but some sports may require tattoos to be covered. In order to answer your questions, I would need the sport in question since some sports may have rules against tattoos.
2-5-10
Q.: How does the WIAA view non-alcoholic beer in connection with athletic eligibility? Apparently, legal for minors to purchase in WI even though contains some alcohol. Please advise.
A.: The determination for this area is made by the school administration. We get involved once the school has made a decision on what is allowed and there is a violation. Other similar situations may be wine at mass or a toast at a wedding. The nonalcoholic beverage would be a local decision. My suggestion would be to see what other schools in your conference are doing.
1-15-10
Q.: Can a student that is 18-years old sign off on the alternate year card?
A.: Our membership rules state that the student must have parental permission, therefore, a parent must sign the physical and/or alternate year card.
12-18-09
Q.: I have a student that wants to bartend. She is 18 years old. Can she play basketball and be a bartender accord- ing to the WIAA rules?
A.: We do not restrict employment of students with the exception of self-employment for skills camps. Provided the student refrains from breaking any code of conduct regulations of the WIAA and your school, there would not be a problem. However, your school and athletic director may have concerns about the image this occupation may project.
Q.: I have read the available section/information on concussions. Is there something in the School Center that says that three concussions ends an athletes participation permanently? What is the WIAA policy on recurrent concussions?
A.: There is no WIAA policy on recurrent concussions. Management of recurrent concussions is best left to a physician specialist that has significant experience with concussion treatment. That specialist can help the athlete and family with the difficult decision process on the risks and benefits of returning to play after (multiple) concussions. One of the difficulties regarding concussion management is that every injury is unique and can affect athletes differently. So the question of "how many concussions are too many?" is very difficult to answer without learning more about each concussion: How did it occur, what were the symptoms, how long did they last, when did they occur, etc. We all know that multiple concussions are not a good sign and continued play may be unsafe for a particular athlete, but that decision is best made with a physician.
Q.: Just a quick question on body painting, spectators at events, is it "legal"?
A.: During the regular season, there is not a WIAA rule. However, during the WIAA tournament series, body paint other than on the face is not allowed (Sportsmanship guide, page 8).
10-23-09
Q.: Last week the television cameras were on the student section at a volleyball game and they did not have shirts on and had painted their chests. Is this okay to do? Are there any songs that are prohibited for the pep band, like "Tequila?"
A.: During the regular season, the rules about shirts and paint are up to the member schools and their respective conferences. During the WIAA tournament series, the fans are allowed to remove their shirts, but body paint is not allowed except on the face. All audible music used before, during, and following a contest must be reviewed and have school administration approval. Lyrics may not be lewd, offensive or profane and must be appropriate for an educational setting. Both rules can be found in Sportsmanship Reference guide (pp. 8 & 9).
9-18-09
Q.: My son had his physical taken during his normal annual exam (Jan. 08). I filled out his alternate year card for 2009. He plays football and basketball. I was informed that he needs to have another physical before bas- ketball season starts. Is this true? Our insurance will only allow him to have one exam per year. He will have his physical during his normal annual exam.
A.: Our rules state that a student-athlete must have a current physical with April 1 the earliest date. Article VII – Health and Behavior/Compliance, Section 1 – Physical Examination, A. A student may not practice for or participate in interscholastic athletics until the school has written evidence on file in its office attesting to (a) parental permission each school year including an acknowledgment of receiving the school athletic code and WIAA Rules of Eligibility, and (b) current physical fitness to participate in sports as determined by a licensed physician or Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) no less than every other school year with April 1 the earliest date of examination. School policy determines when an athlete may return to competition following an injury, except where Rule Book or WIAA tournament policies apply. Physical examination taken April 1 and thereafter is valid for the following two school years; phys- ical examination taken before April 1 is valid only for remainder of that school year and following school year. A physical administered in 1/08 is good for the 2007-08 school year with an alternate year card for the 2008-09 school year. A new physical will be needed for the 2009-10 school year.
Q.: My daughter is going into 9th grade this year. She had a physical 08/13/08. Her AD at the high school insists that she needs a new physical because she is a freshman and that is the WIAA rule. The rules documentation just says every two years with no exceptions for high school freshman. Is she misinterpreting the rule? A.: In the WIAA rules of eligibility, the WIAA rules state: A student may not practice for or participate in interscholastic athletics until the school has written evidence on file in its office attesting to (a) parental permission each school year including an acknowledgment of receiving the school athletic code and WIAA Rules of Eligibility, and (b) current physical fitness to participate in sports as determined by a licensed physician or Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) no less than every other school year with April 1 the earliest date of examination. School policy determines when an athlete may return to competition following an injury, except where rule book or WIAA tournament policies apply. (ROE, Art VII, Section 1, Para. A) The clarification is: Physical examination taken April 1 and thereafter is valid for the follow- ing two school years; physical examination taken before April 1 is valid only for remainder of that school year and following school year. Member schools, however, may have a stricter policy or guideline which their local board of education may have instituted. This may be the case with your local school.
8-21-09
Q.: What is your feeling on having physicals done by D.C.'s, when using the same guidelines as requested of MD's. Some families do not have PCP's that are MD's or nurse practitioners that work under an MD's license, but do have DC's that are their families PCP.
A.: Our members have determined that they will only allow students who have been cleared by an MD or APNP to be allowed to practice and compete. It is their provision, their policy. Chiropractors have not been approved by our members for providing participation clearance.
7-10-09
Q.: Does the student-athlete and parent only have to fill out the HS Athletic Eligibility Information Bulletin one time during their athletic era at our school, or do they have to fill out this form for each year of participation in athletics?
A.: Text in Rules of Eligibility, Art. VII, provides that parents must sign each year. (Keep in mind it is most typical that there will be changes - at least editorially - to text of Rules of Eligibility each year.)
Q.: This spring while updating our Student Handbook and Co-Curricular Code, I found that our school's policy on the co-curricular appeals process is in conflict with the WIAA rules. We are a very small school and have very few Co-Curricular Code violations. We've had only two appeals in the past five years. Our Co-Curricular Code states: "During the entire co-curricular appeals process, the student is entitled to all the rights of a co-curricular participant in good standing." The 2008-09 WIAA Handbook p. 39 (Article VII, Section 2C) states: "Note: The school must provide an opportunity for the student to be heard prior to any penalty being enforced. If a student appeals a suspension, according to the school's appeal procedure, the student is ineligible during the appeal process." Our athletic director has told me that he always speaks to the athlete about participation during the appeals process. He informs them that if they appeal and the suspension is upheld, then our team has to forfeit any competition that the student-athlete has participated in. He discusses possible team consequences with them. In his (many years of) experience, he said that students do not want to put their teams at risk. Can you give me examples from other schools or a suggested way of bringing our Co-Curricular Code into compliance with the WIAA rules? We would like to preserve the students' good standing during an appeal, but we do not want to put our athletic teams at risk or violate WIAA rules. We do understand that the point is to avoid having students appeal simply to "beat the system" and participate in a big game.
A.: First, about the only way your code can be written in compliance - is to identify that if a student appeals a code of conduct suspension – that they are ineligible during that process. Keep in mind that the reason for the appeal is due to the fact that you have already determined that you believe the student vio- lated your code. Thus the status of ineligibility is to protect the interests of the rest of the team/students who have followed your rules. You owe as much to them as to the accused. Second, your AD is correct in that if a student who has violated your code is allowed to play – with a status of ineligibility, which you have already determined by your pronouncement – then that contest would be seen as a forfeit. Your cur- rent text is playing roulette with the other students; should a student appeal, choose to play and still be found to have violated your code. Lastly, friendly advice since you are in a review process – be sure your appeal process text clearly identifies the scope and authority of an appeal group, as well as where the appeals end. Does the appeal board have the authority to exonerate, to increase or decrease a suspension? Or, is their role only for procedural review – that your stated process was adhered to? Whatever the authority of the appeal panel – it should be clearly articulated in your text if it is not. Does your appeal end within your building, with the supt., or with the school board? Hope some of these thoughts might be helpful.
5-26-09
Q.: I'm preparing for next year's fall season and was wondering if all incoming freshman require a physical to participate or if a physical at the beginning of their 8th grade year will work. What is the cut off date in which a new physical is required for the 2009-2010 athletic season?
A.: You may reference p. 3 of the Athlete Eligibility Information Bulletin – or – p. 39 Sr. High Handbook; ROE ART. VII, Sect. 1A. There is not a "flat requirement" (at least not WIAA) that entering 9th graders must all have a new physical. If a student had a PPE (pre participation exam) after April 1st of 7th grade – that exam would be acceptable by WIAA standards for 8th and 9th grade (9th grade would require the alternate year card).
4-10-09
Q.: What is the rule regarding a coach threatening a player with physical harm. Or calling out that player's par- ents in front of everyone?
A.: A coach has no status in the WIAA. The coach is an employee of the school district. Such threats should be reported to the school's administration - immediately.
2-13-09
Q.: I am a parent. I am looking for clarification on WIAA policy. What is the intent of the policy as it pertains to the use of alcohol at family celebrations. For example having a glass of champagne to celebrate a wedding, New Year's, etc. Also, what is the expectation of the student if they are with family where alcohol is being served? For example, going out to have a fish fry, attending a wedding or family get together.
A.: Our member's code does not exempt alcohol consumption at weddings and/or New Year's Eve, if accompanied by parents or not. There is no problem for a student to eat a meal in a restaurant where alco- hol might be being legally served to others of legal age.
12-12-08
Q.: There is a situation at our school while during the skinfold/hydration wrestling tests, someone was caught cheating (not sure what he did). Somehow it was determined then that everyone who took the test must have cheated (although there was no evidence of this) and so all tests were thrown out, but the rest of the team would be allowed to stay and take the hydration test and skinfold measurements. Those who had not yet taken the test did stay and take it. Those who had already gone through the hydration test, left as they did not think they would be able to go again for awhile. Some of the team then went to a local hospital and had the test retaken two days later by a certified technician/trainer. Now the AD at our school wants the whole team to retake the test again at school. Most parents and the coaches think this is ridiculous. The whole team is being punished for one kid's mistake. Are there rules on this type of situation?
A.: Our membership's Bylaws provide that school administration is 100 percent responsible for the eligi- bility and compliance of their school's teams and programs. Since this is a health and safety related rule, if school administration determines that the best way to assure the safety and well-being of their students and to restore credibility and integrity to the program's reputation is to require a complete re-testing, it is completely within their authority to do so.
Q.: I have a transfer student that moved here from Michigan this year. He had a physical last year in Michigan on May 6, 2008. The physical is on the Michigan High School Athletic Association card. Does this physical card work for this student for this year, or does he need to get another physical in Wisconsin on the WIAA card.
A.: There is not a requirement that a physical must be on the WIAA form - only that the student have a valid/current physical that has been signed by an MD and/or APNP (double check that on your student's form) You may allow the Mich. physical so long as it is appropriately signed. Since it was taken after Apr. 1, it will be good for the 08-09 and 09-10, school years.
Q.: A student came in and has been working at a nice restaurant for the past five years. The owner asked if he would bartend when he turns 18. He asked if it was OK as he turns 18 in the middle of the swim season. I told him that I would get back to him. We do not have anything in our code specific to that and I was wondering what the WIAA would say about that subject. Philosophically I am leaning towards saying no due to our presence at a party clause and asking him to wait until his athletic career is over.
A.: Your initial reaction is understandable - and it may be where you end up on this when all the dust set- tles. I suggest talking it over with your principal/administration and see where your school wishes to line up. It's great the student or parents are coming to you to ask. As far as what we see, this is not altogether uncommon. Kids working in their family's restaurant, bartending at the country club, selling beer at the grocery as a checkout, e.g. So long as the student is acting within the law, the WIAA does not equate employment and the legal selling or serving of alcohol by a student as part of their employment, to be an automatic violation of the members rule. We recognize the legal vs. illegal dimensions within different sce- narios. Friendly advice if you decide to allow, meet with student and parent and remind them of how vul- nerable they will be if they even act silly and just "pretend" to be consuming alcohol, etc. They will be in the public eye. They may also feel pressured by friends to provide.
9-19-08
Q.: Can we accept physicals for freshmen (establish an alternate year) if the student received a physical before April 1 of their 8th grade year. We are running into insurance companies that are only allowing one physical every two years.
A.: Yes. Please See Senior High Handbook, p. 39, Article VII, 1A- boxed text. A physical taken in 8th grade would be acceptable for 8th and 9th with use of the alternate year card this year. There is not a WIAA requirement all students must have a new physical upon entering 9th grade.
8-15-08
Q.: I am holding our school's code meeting tonight and it dawned on me that we may have a little issue with our code. Academically speaking, one F means a student-athlete is ineligible for 10 percent of the contests in their sport, as well as proof of passing at the end of their suspension. The WIAA states 21 consecutive days for a fall sport (spring grades) or 15 days any other time during the year. It also states "member schools may adopt aca- demic policies...which are more stringent...school requirements prevail (over the WIAA)...", but it appears our school's policy is not more stringent, in fact, less. So, my question is this, do we need to alter some language in our code or are we ok?
A.: When schools have a no-F policy – which is what you have, in effect, then following your policy of 10 percent is OK. It's when a student receives –MORE- than one F that you must adhere to minimum WIAA requirements. So long as you at least do that when a student receives more then a single F, you will be fine. When a school independently, makes the student academically ineligible, then the school can also estab- lish the terms for return to play. If/when the student gets more then one F, then the WIAA 21 calendar days (fall) and 15 school days – during the school year – may not be lessened.
7-18-08
Q.: Is there a mandatory requirement for all athletes and parents to attend a meeting explaining a schools ath- letic code?
A.: There are requirements both in the Bylaws and Rules of Eligibility that members are responsible to educate students, coaches, parents and others in the rules and operations of the Association and your own school rules. There are requirements that you get signed confirmation from parents for approval to com- pete, approval for emergency treatment, acknowledgement of school and WIAA rules... And that you verify student eligibility prior to competition. There is not a requirement that you host a meeting to accom- plish these administrative procedures. While it certainly is grown common and I think popular as an effi- cient means to make certain that students and parents are receiving your message – the reality is - the method to accomplish those requirements identified above, is not defined for you.
5-22-08
Q.: My question concerns the addition to Article VII - Health and Behavior/Compliance. In the receiving by par- ents of the WIAA Rules of Eligibility, does that mean they have to be given a paper copy of the rules or can we inform them where they can be found on the WIAA website. I informed my administration of that change today and they questioned the paper usage of it. We have approximately 700+ athletes out for sports, plus there are nine pages of rules listed in the WIAA Handbook. When you start adding that up that is a lot of paper being used. Maybe you have heard what other schools will be doing to fulfill this requirement, if so please pass that on to us.
A.: The actual text of the new rule requires you to have on file written acknowledgement (parent signa- ture) that the parents received your school code and the WIAA's rules of eligibility – how you chose to pro- vide them that information is up to you. We will provide a form – it's use is not mandatory, but that the parents receive WIAA ROE and you keep their signature is now required.
5-1-08
Q.: I am a concerned parent from a member high school. There is a girl on the girls track team that was arrest- ed for hosting an underage drinking party, she was also drunk. This happened on Feb. 23. As of today April 4, she is still on the track team. I thought there was a code and this definitely breaks it. Why is she still allowed to be on the team?
A.: If you are sincerely and genuinely concerned – you would schedule a meeting with your school's administration and share with them any first hand information you have. It is a requirement of member- ship that a school have a participation code and that school administration shall apply that code as writ- ten, when they determine the code has been violated. Our experience is that most member school admin- istrators are not reluctant to apply their codes despite the bluster of those who would obstruct. If you can make a contribution, stand up and do it. Your school's administration will appreciate any quality infor- mation you can provide them.
4-11-08
Q.: I am a nurse practitioner and requesting clarification of the WIAA rules regarding athletic physicals. Under 1. Medical Examinations a. general requirements, it states that the card must be signed by a physician or advanced practice nurse practitioner [prescriber]. Two paragraphs later it states that these exams can be done by physician assistants or nurse practitioner but this can be done only if verified by a physician. Physician assistants practice under the license of their supervising physician. Nurse practitioners are licensed to practice independ- ently. Are we able to do these exams and sign these cards without verification or do they need to be stamped or co-signed? Please provide clarification on the rules for N.P.'s and P.A.'s as we have both in our clinic and will be starting these physicals very soon.
A.: That's correct, our member's current requirement states that exams can be done by physician assis- tants or nurse practitioner but must be verified by a physician. Our members have authorized only (and specifically) MD's and APNP's to independently perform and sign pre-participation exams. As it is writ- ten -- N.P.'s and P.A.'s might perform all or part of the physical examination but the card must be signed or stamped by the MD or the clinic he/she works for. Lastly, we have no text that identifies a nurse prac- titioner or advance practice nurse practitioner. Our text specifically identifies APNP as advanced practice nurse prescriber. These two nursing credentials are different and are not one in the same.
Q.: Our code is an activities code and covers all activities including sports. If a student got a "Conduct unbe- coming a student/athlete" code violation, according to WIAA, he/she would have to sit out one WIAA contest. Is that correct? If we apply our code and the next contest would be a forensics contest, that student would be required to sit out the forensics contest. Would he/she still be required to sit out one WIAA contest?
A.: Yes to both questions. The rules of eligibility specifically identify, a minimum of one/the next game, meet, event. The WIAA does not sponsor forensics. Our membership text does not address anything other the WIAA sponsored interscholastic athletic programming.
2-8-08
Q.: We have a student athlete who suffered a broken nose in a basketball game about a month ago. He is two weeks removed from surgery to repair it. The doctor will not see him until two weeks from today, it is that time when he will be evaluated and either released to participate or still have restrictions. Here is the question: The parents want the student to play now and are willing to sign something saying that he is released. We are not going to honor that and we are requiring the doctor's release. Once a student-athlete is under the care of a doc- tor no form or release is valid except from a physician, correct?
A.: WIAA text/provisions indicate - it is up to school administration to determine when an athlete may return. As described, we understand and are supportive of the position your administration looks to be taking on this matter. When you consider - the MD's clearance on the "green card" might be a year old. Following significant injury - that sort of "approval" may be viewed as invalid, outdated; as it was based on assessment of "a different student"!! (in a manner of speaking.) When there is a significant change in student's health status - it is not unreasonable for AD to seek info/approval/assurance from MD which is more current and "post event connected." At times the sort of decision you're making will not be popular with parent. We consider it wise to require current medical professional's opinion and clearance follow- ing injury or illness which has required a student to be "seen." It may also be advisable to consult with your district's legal counsel on issues of this kind.
Q.: Foreign exchange student physical – If they had a physical before they came to the U.S., do they need to get another one in the U.S before they can participate in a school sport? Is this a WIAA decision or something each school would decide?
A.: The FE students must have a U.S. physical. Our member's rule regarding a pre-participation exam requires that; it be 'cur- rent/recent' - i.e., within the dates/timelines outlined in the Rules of Eligibility (Sr. High Handbook, p. 39) and; The 'physical form' - must be signed by an MD and/or APNP (only). Our members have voted to accept only those credentials as indicated - to provide examinations acceptable to this membership. Many
times the 'physical' an exchange student has had just prior to travel is completely acceptable within those WIAA standards. The final determination and whether-or-not to accept a non-US form will rest within the authority of the school and/or district. A member certainly could request a physical from a local MD.... if that was more in their comfort zone and/or district policy or preference. Lastly/additionally, we have developed an informed-consent form for biological parents of exchange students (p. 3 of the online foreign student form) that many of our members are now requiring prior to approving participation in their districts. Use of the form is not a WIAA requirement, but a tool we provide our members should they find it helpful.
12-21-07
Q.: I have a question about eligibility and the use of medications. It is my understanding that if it is a prescribed medication that is being used for a medical condition, there should be no problem with eligibility. My son will be seeing a specialist and may be going on growth hormone. He is concerned that he would become ineligible to play sports. I would like to assure him that there would be no problem.
A.: You are correct. When medicines and treatments are prescribed by an MD and the medicines are used by the individual they are prescribed to - and used, as they have been prescribed - they will not be con- sidered a violation of the WIAA's steroid/supplements prohibition.
10-27-07
Q.: I have a student who has approached me about the possibility of working for relatives in a bar/restaurant. He is currently 18. He would be in a position where from time to time he would be working behind the bar. I don't like the situation, but was wondering if there is anything written that could be used to apply to this situation.
A.: 'No' – Have addressed this numbers of times in Q/A. WIAA rules would not prevent student from being employed in this manner. It is key for the student and parents - to have it explained straight-up and plain – how vulnerable they are to the perception of drinking, providing, simply by being around it. You might also explain it to 'uncle' too...that not only the team but 'nephew, too' could get dinged if all involved aren't clear, thoughtful and careful. It's not the setting for goofiness but WIAA rules would not prohibit legal employment.
9-21-07
Q.: Is the product/line out there called Advocare a supplement we should be aware of? I was asked about Advocare and went to some websites for information. However, is this a line of products that should be on the WIAA's banned or questionable list?
A.: In my opinion - yes/absolutely. Have not heard or read recently about the product - at one time it was my understanding that they sold one product line to NCAA - that was creatine-free, in order to allow col- lege strength coaches to 'endorse/promote'...and to conform to NCAA rules – And that the high school product line they market - did in fact, contain creatine. Our restricted list is not able to ever be 100 per- cent all-inclusive, the market changes literally every night and day. As a result that's why we provide some examples of what is/are supplements which are fundamentally categorized as 'restricted' by our member's policy. Look at the list – if the product/supplement contains creatine, more caffeine then a normal can of soda and/or any of the other types of supplements as identified out in the policy tri-fold consider it restrict- ed. If you're not certain send me a list of the ingredients and the claims. With the marketing of this stuff
ever-changing and always trying to grip the athlete and especially adolescent athlete market - is exactly why we try to always indicate - READ THE LABEL. In some parts of the state coaches were actually tar- geted for recruitment as sellers (their spouses) and a pyramid gig, much like Amway was born. We advise caution.
Q.: I have a runner who will be taking a drug for a nasal problem, it is "Veramyst" (fluticasone furoate- which is a man-made corticosteroid). Will this be a problem with the WIAA?
A.: If this is a prescription medication - and if it is used by the student it is prescribed to – in accordance with the prescribed use/dosage, there will be no eligibility concerns registered here. Our medical advisory members concurred: "Absolutely no contraindications to participation for this young man. He has a pre- scription for this medication to treat his allergies. Also, the nasal steroids are not performance enhancing like an anabolic steroid. I applaud the coach's knowledge of the athletes (and their medical conditions) on the team."
Q.: Here in western Wisconsin we are on the border of Minnesota and Wisconsin. So when athletes bring in their physicals, some go to a physician in Minnesota. My question is: Is it ok to accept a Minnesota High School League physical form or are we to require that the green Wisconsin physical form be filled out? First year phys- ical in Minnesota gives an in depth exam with both the doctor's signature and the parents. The subsequent year only a follow up form was given with no signatures. Please let me know what we are to accept.
A.: YES* (SO LONG AS THE FORM IS SIGNED BY A MD AND/OR APNP and the date coincides with WIAA requirements. WIAA members have not approved any other medical professionals to perform school sport physicals in WI, e.g., chiropractors have not been authorized by our members. The form is provided as courtesy to members. You may accept any recognizable form that indicates a physical exam has been provided. You could accept another form..from military physical..from foreign country as will accompany most exchange students, e.g. But still must have MD or APNP's signature/credential. Would recommend using/providing a WIAA alternate year card though, parents still must sign.
Q.: I was recently asked a question if a school nurse can administer the skinfold test for wrestling. Our school has a full time nurse presently, would she be able to perform the skinfold test instead of us having to pay an out- side person to perform the test? If not, what would she have to do to become certified in this area?
A.: No. Only skinfold measurers trained by the WIAA are authorized to do wrestling minimum weight measurements. With all involved, there's more to it then just pinching...that is a key part of our training. We identify/select and train new measurers every other year. We will be seeking new measurers next spring (2008) for next fall's class. You or your candidate can get back in touch next spring and we'll be glad to get an application out.
Q.: If our school policy is stronger/stricter than WIAA (we have a no F policy) and if someone is deemed inel- igible, then are we as a school bound to implement the WIAA penalties of the 21 days starting on the first day a game/match can be played?
A.: When it is 'your' academic policy that has made the student ineligible, it could/should be your policy that identifies when eligibility is restored. Understand that with a No-F policy, you could return the ath- lete in less then the WIAA's prescribed timelines and periods. BUT DO KEEP IN MIND that you must have in effect, a two tier policy, because if/when a student gets more then one F, the WIAA suspension (or your own, if it is more strict) must then be applied.
Q.: Is there a distinction between a varsity and non-varsity athlete as to when someone is serving the 1/3 games penalty? Or doesn't it matter. Just wondering because for example what if a senior athlete plays JV tennis would she be following the varsity schedule for game dates when indeed there might be one or only two JV games dur- ing that stretch of the probation.
A.: If a student is purely a JV player, apply the JV schedule. Some folks get into trouble when they try to apply both JV and varsity schedules to creatively get student returned, sooner. Recommend apply the schedule that student actually plays at.
8-20-07
Q.: Is there a requirement for annual meetings to review the code of conduct for students? We are revising our athletic code to incorporate co-curricular activities and one of our committee members asked if we were required to meet with students to review the code annually or if it is something that we could do once during their high school career and just have them sign a new one each year.
A.: The Bylaws and Rules of Eligibility of the association make it clear that school administration are responsible to educate, coaches, students, parents and others in the rules/requirements of the association. There is not a specific directive on how you must do it. That's left up to you, the individual member school to decide. Some members do it once annually, at the start of the school year, others conduct fall, winter and spring sport season meetings every year. Some only have orientation for 9th graders and new trans- fers and 'sign the pledge' from then on. It will be for you to determine what will work best for you and your school.
7-13-07
Q.: In late May a student athlete's name was given to me as a possible violator of our code of conduct. I began the investigation, but could not determine the outcome prior to our team competing in sectional play. I, there- fore, deemed the athlete ineligible and did not allow participation. An appeal process and continued investiga- tion has taken place and it has been determined that according to our code a violation did not take place. As a result, I am reinstating the athlete's eligibility based on the WIAA and our code of conduct and appeal process which is built into the code. In other words, the athlete will be reinstated based on the fact that no violation took place and as a result will be in uniform at the State Tournament. Obviously this has been a pain filled experience for the family and they have been very cooperative although saddened by the experience. Our coaches and play- ers have been supportive and cooperative in this whole experience as well. I guess, more than a question I am asking for support in this process and the results.
A.: If upon conclusion of your investigation you have determined there has been no violation – student could be restored and allowed to return to competition without peril.
5-25-07
Q.: We have a situation pertaining to a golf meet. There were two student athletes that were busted after the golf meet for smoking cigars during the actual golf meet. They were suspended for the proper amount of meets by their educational institution after the infraction. Our question is, do or should the scores count from the meet in which they committed the infraction?
A.: One might argue that with the tobacco in their possession and/or certainly, as soon as the students 'lit- up' they were no longer eligible to participate – and when an ineligible player takes part, Rules of Eligibility, Article I, Section 5A-2 (Handbook, p. 31) provides that all points etc. are eliminated.
Q.: After a presentation Jane Foos made on the WIAA Steroid/Supplement policy at our school recently, there were a couple questions on the supplement 5-Hour Energy. The question came from a cross country/track/base- ball athlete and the cross country coach. One of the runners asked if 5-Hour Energy was "ok" to take. He said after drinking the 2 oz bottle he felt some energy boost. He did not know the ingredients other than it was "high in B vitamins" and didn't have any sugar. Do you have any more information about this product?
A.: Jane Foos has provided the following information: I remember responding that the product likely con- tained caffeine and as the main "energizer." That has turned out to be the case. The bottle provides 15 calories of "energy" mainly from amino acid derivatives. This will fuel about 50 meters of running so the actual "energy" contribution is miniscule. However, a 2 oz. serving of this product has as much caffeine as an 8-oz. cup of coffee. There are several concerns with using this product: 1) 5-Hour Energy is classi- fied as a Discouraged Supplement by WIAA policy because it's a "caffeine enhanced beverage." Its use by the athlete should not be allowed in conjunction with a school practice/game/meet. 2) As I mentioned in the program on "energy drinks" the caffeine will give a short term boost but is followed by the caffeine crash. The risk of course is that the athlete will take "another dose" to keep going. A caffeine overdose can cause jitters, anxiousness, elevated heart rate, difficulty concentrating. 3) Caffeine is a diuretic and with hot baseball games/track meets dehydration will decrease performance. 4) The product contains a high dose of Niacin which could cause "niacin flushing." 5) Caffeine is a stimulant that may interact with other medications athletes may be prescribed. As an alternative, for "increased energy and endurance" I would recommend this athlete increase/improve what he eats/drinks for lunch, have a bottle of his favorite sport drink before practice/competition, and take fluids on a scheduled basis during practice/games/meets.
5-4-07
Q.: With underage drinking and tobacco use in the news almost daily, and three-game suspensions the usual penalty, I would like to see the WIAA set a precedence, and deliver a full-year suspension from all sports! I think this would deter our students from using these substances. I have heard of students getting picked up in their off season, so they sign up for another sport so their penalty does not have to be served during their regular sport.
A.: The idea you propose is doable in two possible ways. First, the entire membership could pass and adopt such a sanction – only with a majority vote of the over 500 member schools – who are the WIAA. Secondly, your own school could adopt such a policy – with direction from your own school board. Those of us who work in this office – the WIAA Executive Staff have no unilateral authority to pass or require any provi- sion without the procedural review and approval by our member schools.
Q.: I am a family physician, and am affiliated with the University of Wisconsin. A question has come up in our practice, now that we have moved from paper charts to electronic records. In previous years, we have used the form form the WIAA (and originally from the AAFP) for recording sports physical exams, and then used the top "tear-off" piece for sending back to school with the athlete. Since our electronic system does not have a good means for keeping the physical exam record from the larger section of the sports PE form (which has spaces for medical history information from the parent and the athlete, and space for documenting the exam), we are won- dering: Does WIAA require that the sports PE physical exam form be used and completed, or is the only require- ment that athletes have the "cleared to participate" form (the tear-off smaller section) completed?
A.: To be clear; the Association requires that a student have an (preparticipation) exam - at least on an alternating year basis. That the exam – must be performed/signed and indicate the student is 'cleared to participate' - by an MD or APNP (only). Member schools are required to have evidence of the exam, the doctor's clearance - and parental permission to participate - on file, in written form. There is no require- ment beyond the bold text – or that a member must use the 'green card.' We provide it, keep it current/rel- evant, as a service to our members (and their health care providers.) But, there is no requirement of the
green card being the only acceptable form/instrument. Each year there are many foreign exchange stu- dents who have had pre-travel physicals in countries all over the world and - so long as the athletic direc- tor can identify that the form indicates the student is cleared to participate and it's been signed by an MD and is within the time/date requirements, the student can be allowed to participate given that form. Some students are cleared using a military physical exam record, etc.
4-13-07
Q.: I have been doing the entering of our students forms required to participate in a sport. I had some parents challenge me about the alternate year card, so I thought I should have you clarify it with me so I have it right. If a student has a physical after April 1, I know it's valid for the following two school years. The way I took it, if a student had a physical in a previous school year (say they had one 4/2/06), then in the following school year they need an alternate year card. So they would need an alternate year card for the 2006/2007 school year and for the 2007/2008 school year. Is this right? If not, what would they need for the 2006/2007 school year? If they participate in a spring sport which goes from March - May, wouldn't they need to have at least an alternate year card on file with us to say their health hasn't changed? – or does the WIAA rules state the physical card is good from 4/2/06 through the end of the school year 2007. Then for the 2007/2008 school year they would need an alternate year card?
A.: School years should not be mixed up with calendar years, nor as meaning, 'from date of exam,' etc. It is a 'face value' statement – 'good for the next two (complete) school years.' In this situation, the original green card is good for 06/07 and the alternate year card required for the second, i.e., 07/08. Presumably, student may likely either have a previous physical or alternate year card that carried them to /through the spring of 06, or you would use the 4/2 green card to do spring of 06 and the rest of the 06/07 school year.
3-30-07
Q.: I am a sophomore in high school. I am an athlete and work out during the off-season. Me and my fellow weightlifters at my local gym have many debates on banned substances. We all want to check before we would ever take a supplement, but we can not find a banned substance list for WIAA. If you could please give me a link or a list of , and most notably, substances such as creatine, magnesium stearate, and L-Leucine-ketoiso- caproic acid calcium. Furthermore, if their is a list of products such as leukic and creakic, stuff found at GNC stores, that is banned, please give a link of that or a list of some of their most notably banned products.
A.: First, go to our home page (wiaawi.org) In the left hand margin see the 'HEALTH' icon. In that menu you will find both the current banned substance information and a dozen articles and links to good infor- mation in the areas of your interest. Second, we have also provided your school with a considerable amount of information on the WIAA's Banned and Restricted substance list. Your school should have wal- let cards, a tri-fold with more detailed information - as well as an outstanding power point/DVD that, given your interest I'd suggest you ask to borrow or copy from your AD.
Q.: Our school nurse has been contacted by a local chiropractor that insists that she is a licensed physician and should be allowed to do the WIAA sports physical. I was under the impression that it was not acceptable for a chiropractor to sign the physical card. The Handbook specifically says licensed physician or APNP and that to me does not include a chiropractor. Could you please clear this up for us.
A.: You are correct. Our members have determined that for sport physicals to be acceptable they must be signed by an MD and/or APNP. No other provider has been approved by the member schools.
1-19-07
Q.: I have two questions: 1) Can physician assistants do sports physicians? 2) Can physician assistants fill out the skins sheets for wrestlers?
A.: 1) YES - but ... A PA may do all or part of the pre-participation exam as directed by an MD. MD's sig- nature or stamp must be affixed. A PA can not 'sign-off' independent of a MD. 2) I am not completely cer- tain what exactly, you mean when you say 'fill out the skin sheets' - so as a result will respond - NO. MD/DO – specific/only.
12-22-06
Q.: I'm confused as to the eligible date for physicals. My child had a complete physical on March 18, 2005. When would she be required to have another complete full physical?
A.: Given the date indicated, this physical exam would be accepted for participation in 04-05 school year and 05-06 school year. Student would require new physical prior to being allowed to practice in 06-07 school year. The date requirements are printed right on the top of the 'green card.' This text is identical to the text in the Member's Senior High Handbook provided to our schools in print and is available on- line (under Publications icon, p. 39).
Q.: I have looked in your 2006-07 Senior High School Handbook and could not find any information regarding addressing a coach's responsibility for turning in student/athletes involved in an athletic code violation. Do you address this issue in any of your publications or do you suggest we address this in our own coaches and faculty handbooks?
A.: We have no such language or guidelines. Should you actually need such language? Technically, we have no such authority to create them – The coach is your employee - and subject to your contract/bargaining agreement and - I presume would reasonably be expected to uphold your board policies, school codes and the spirit of their intent. Wouldn't a failure to do so arguably be insubordinate? We have responsibility and authority over the 'membership of schools' and indeed, we do have a Bylaw (Art VII, Section 1) which does require one member to report another member who is in non-compliance. Thus the failure to report a violation places two schools in non-compliance.
Q.: I am a student at a member school and I'm writing an article about the list of banned and discouraged things for athletes. My question is why ginseng is on the "discouraged" list?
A.: I've included a response to your specific question here: "Ginseng has a stimulating effect that can increase blood pressure and cause low blood sugar in some people." This comes from the diet/nutrition professional that advises our Sport Medical Advisory. Another M.D. from our committee added that Ginseng should also be avoided in asthmatics, people with recurrent headaches, pregnant women, and anyone with any mental health disorders (depression, etc). Also if you look at and consider the text of the tri-fold, we have provided a 'broad' rationale for the reasons certain items were placed on a restricted list - marking them as not an acceptable component to/for a school program.
12-6-06
Q.: 1) Our school will be competing in wrestling as a JV team, no varsity. Do the athletes still need skinfold tests? 2) Can a coach in anyway dictate appearance (beards, long hair, etc.) of his/her athletes?
A.: 1) Yes. 2) Typically, yes - though would recommend that 'team rules/requirements' be approved by dis- trict admin. - if not your school board. These should be in writing and provided to students/parents early on. Might also run them past legal counsel. In addition, NF wrestling rules have specific grooming rules/requirements.
Q.: We have a foreign exchange student, whom we have approved to play basketball. Does the physical form that he had to do his foreign exchange program from his country count here or does he need a new physical in this country?
A.: If the dates of the physical are 'current,' and you can see the form was signed by a U.S. M.D.
10-25-06
Q.: Can you explain to me how it works when an athlete is caught or accused of a drinking offense? Who deals out the suspensions? How long is it to be? Are these rules in writing? Where can they be found?
A.: As a requirement for membership in this Association a school must have a school board approved, extra-curricular Participation Code. The member is required to follow and apply their code - when they feel/believe it has been broken - and it must be applied as written. Most typically the AD and/or building principal enforce the school's code. A student must be provided an opportunity to be heard prior to a sus- pension being applied. (This is also the area where at emotional times many become confused with 'right vs. privilege' and some will wrongly insert the standards of - 'innocent until proven guilty'... 'beyond a reasonable doubt' and other perspectives associated with law, "rights" and civil liberty which do not apply in participation code application as they do when one is facing the potential of the legal denial of civil rights and incarceration.) The minimum penalties associated with specific violations is outlined in our Senior High Handbook, (on our website under Publications icon). Individual school codes can be and often times are more strict. The best place to begin in knowing the terms and conditions of suspension is to read and know one's own school's code. Be advised: There is also a rule of the membership which states if a student misses one or more tournament competitions as a result of code violation the student is ineligible for the remainder of the tournament series in that sport. You may also review a narrative on the subject in the Rules At A Glance, see Art. II- I.
10-6-06
Q.: We are revising our athletic code and during our discussions came a question regarding athletic eligibility. Here is the scenario – an athlete has a code violation and must miss three games. The athlete plays on JV and spot time on varsity. Can a school count games in both varsity and JV? For example, if an athlete misses the first two varsity games and a JV contest he/she has fulfilled their suspension?
A.: This will end up being largely your determination. The WIAA requires that a student miss one contest for a code violation. It is however, fairly typical for our members to be more strict than the minimums. If you look at the "ejected athlete Q/A" on our web site...you will see some examples to guide the think- ing/decision. Certainly, you would not "count" a contest the athlete would not ordinarily/regularly be expected to appear in – to satisfy a suspension. If the student is a "regular" and would be "expected" to play and contribute in a contest, then it would seem reasonable to "count" the game. Otherwise, no.
Q.: Regarding high school football games. Is there a rule that states an ambulance needs to be physically pres- ent on stand by at all varsity, junior varsity and freshman football games in case of injuries?
A.: No. (would be impossible for many schools and communities... due to local resources and/or budget). You may review prescribed medical coverage for all WIAA sports in the Season Regulations publications. For football, it is found on p. 12 of the Fall Season Regulations.
Q.: Does the WIAA have a written policy outlining guidelines for lightening during outdoor activities. All I have been able to find regarding football is the NFHS page in the meeting folder, Rule 3-1-3,4,5; Case Book 3-1- 5A,B; and Simplified 3-1-5, pg 52. I have found nothing specific to lightening in the Officials Manual. I give game management lightning information if threatening weather is possible. The back page is Rule, Case, and Illustrated examples, cut and pasted. This gives game management an idea of what type of assistance we expect from them and documentation for it. From my experience, including 30+ years of reading rule & case books and various handouts and attending clinics, it seems to me the people involved in suspending/terminating a game are the referee, both coaches, and HOME game management. The question has come up, "Does the visiting team athletic director have a say in these matters?" Any information/opinion you have in this regard will be greatly appreciated.
A.: WIAA lightning provisions are outlined in the Sport Medical Policy and Procedure manual – p. 49. This publication is also on-line. In addition, virtually every year since I've been on board, have provided information in FB rules pre-season meeting materials – as outlined on p. 25 of this year's booklet. Related, though not lightning specific – is Policy for Authority of Contest Manager – contained on p. 46 of WIAA Senior High Handbook. I like the fact that you are giving the AD/game manager "something." Have a plan. Talk about it - anticipate. Timely communication. It's the only way to get things done. Does the vis- iting team AD have a voice? – As you know the rules provide authority to the contest manager before the contest begins and - once begun, the rules say you have control. There is no reference made to authority of visiting team AD. One could create countless "hypotheticals" that would end up with "too many cooks in the kitchen," certainly. But if you come here for "practical" advice as well as reaffirming what you already know - you won't find it "spelled out" this way in any NF or WIAA literature, but my response would be - At least unofficially and from a practical perspective - "Yes of course." If present, her/his con- cerns should not be dismissed, ought to be recognized and added into the decision making process. Contest officials would not be expected to seek them out however.
Q.: Can a licensed chiropractor conduct physicals on student-athletes for students to begin participation? I see according to Article VIII Section 1 and what it states, but I was told by a parent that it was allowed before in the district?
A.: In a word - no. Our members have identified that only MD and APNP's can do sport physicals for our membership. This rule has not changed in the past 6-8 years and that was only to allow/include APNPs. If a chiropractor's physical was accepted in the past – it was not in compliance with the provisions of membership.
9-15-06
Q.: We are in the process of writing language to our athletic code regarding the use of performance enhancing substances and the issue of creatine came up. Even though it is not mentioned on the banned list by the NCAA, are we correct in saying it should be banned per the WIAA policy?
A.: Two perspectives: First, you would not be the first member school to place creatine on their own school's code. I am familiar with another school that has creatine identified as a not acceptable supple- ment by their code and is treated like any other prohibited substance. Second, the WIAA's Medical Advisory PES Sub Committee identified creatine as a "discouraged" substance. Meaning, much like the NCAA, the WIAA has not banned the substance per/se, but it may not be a part of a school's program. Not provided by/endorsed or sold by school staff, not in the dug outs, not in the cafeteria, not allowed on the team bench or around the school based program and athletes. Schools may not allow it to be a part of the school's team/program.
Q.: I was asked by the mother of one of our swimmers if it is OK if her daughter is taking methylin (ratilin) and clonidine per a doctor's prescription. I believe one or both substances are on the current NCAA banned substance list.
A.: Those medications prescribed by an MD - and used by the individual they have been prescribed to – and used as prescribed, should NOT be viewed as violating the controlled substance/supplement provi- sions of your code.
Q.: We have a question concerning the timeline for implementation of a potential athletic code violation. The example is: A student is playing hockey in the winter season when they are given a citation for a potential ath- letic code violation. Parents, coaches and a school administrator are aware of the ticket and the nature of the violation as the administrator was in court when the ticket was paid and met with the parents regarding the incident. Not until the last meet of the spring track season is the student written up for an athletic code violation and told they must sit out that meet for a violation in November. Is there a timeline for executing an athletic code viola- tion when administration is aware of this during the season it occurred?
A.: On our website – under the publications icon you will find the Senior High Handbook among the menu items. Provisions relating to Code of Conduct will be found in Article VII (p. 39). Answers to your ques- tion are found in Section 2 of that Article. Section 2C-1 specifically indicates in part: "In-season violations of the school code will result in immediate suspension of the student." Not knowing any additional details or perspectives of this concern other then what has been thus far shared, I would also direct your atten- tion to Article I of the Rules of Eligibility (p. 31) and strongly encourage you to review Section 5. Simply stated, all contests in which an ineligible athlete appears shall be forfeit – in this case, until the suspension has been served. Related narrative and interpretation of the rule can be found in Article II-I of Rules At A Glance.
Q.: Is the physical that a foreign exchange student receives in the U.S. acceptable when it comes to participa- tion in sports, or does that student need a physical from an area physician?
A.: Provided the dates are "recent" , i.e., within guidelines as outlined (HB p. 39, ROE, Art. VII, Sect. 1) AND the physical is signed by MD (or APNP). You may allow student to participate with physical they received to satisfy exchange program requirements. Generally, the physical will be recent/current and generally they will be performed by MD's. Always double check, anyway.
Q.: If an athlete had a physical in the 8th grade in August, does that meet the requirements for eligibility for his freshman year in high school? He would then need physicals before his sophomore and senior years.
A.: In a word - "yes"! Both on the "Green Card" (physical exam form) and the Senior High Handbook (on our website under publications) provide that: "A physical exam taken April 1 and thereafter is valid for the following two school years; physical examinations taken before April 1 is valid only for remainder of that school year and the following school year." Thus, an exam in Aug. '05 is good for '05-'06 and '06- '07 school year (alternate year card req. in '06-'07).
Q.: Would it be OK for a Native American to use tobacco in a ceremonial context?
A.: Within the setting of the religious ceremony - I am inclined to agree, same as some faiths incorporate alcohol in their services. Advise getting something in writing that you might know specific context and set- ting more clearly. Also advise student and elders respect "school code" and your efforts to enforce, that it might be understandable that it is not acceptable for student to be "in possession" of tobacco and etc. out- side of specific time/place of it's ceremonial use - certainly, not on/around school campus and school events.
7-7-06
Q.: Situation: A student has participated in football for the past two seasons and will be a junior during the upcoming school year. The student's physical has elapsed and he has not yet, nor will he have a valid physical on file prior to the "summer contact," but will have a valid physical on file prior to going out for football in the fall. Is this student eligible for summer contact? If so, where is the liability for the school in case of injury since the summer contact session is being run by the coach on school property?
A.: WIAA rules require a valid physical on file before the start of the official school interscholastic season. Rules are silent on needing/requiring "physical" for summer program participation. I would say it's up to school...local determination. Might be a little difficult to address liability. Certainly, would be influenced by if the event is seen as "school sponsored" or, is privately run by coach or boosters or other nonschool entity..and the voluntary nature of the participation. The WIAA does not require students to have their physicals on file before undertaking any other summer activities, including strength/speed summer school offerings. Just must have physical on file before being allowed to practice or play in the official school sea- son of a sport. However, if the school wished to make that a prerequisite and/or for participation in phys. ed. they certainly could, and/or for the 6th grade cheerleader workshop/fund raiser and half-time per- formance, they certainly could make it a requirement. Also, keep in mind that for years WIAA Bylaws have allowed schools to sponsor programming for grade level and middle level students. Did those schools require pre-participation exams for that student population? If so, then certainly it would seem reason- able to be a part of school programming requirements for students in gr. 9-12.
Q.: What is the WIAA position on physical examinations being conducted by chiropractors?
A.: See Handbook, p. 39. Article VII, Sect. 1-A. Our members have authorized only licensed physicians and Advanced Practice Nurse Prescribers (APNP) to perform/approve pre-participation exams for WIAA interscholastic athletic practice and competition. Our members have not authorized that a "physical" per- formed by a chiropractor may be accepted for WIAA sports.
5-25-06
Q.: We have a student who violated our code of conduct policies (use of alcohol). He admitted to the infraction and has been issued a suspension in the next sport that he participates in (a percentage of the season as outlined in our athletic code). It turns out to be a three-game suspension, and I am expecting him to participate in sum- mer baseball - the problem is that the third and fourth game of their season will be on the same day in a tourna- ment - his question is: Is he eligible for the second game on that day, as it represents the fourth contest of their season?
A.: Unless your code would direct something other, WIAA would say "yes, no problem." In sports where each game is "counted" as one of the season maximums, a student could be allowed to return with eligi- bility restored in the second game of a double header, e.g. In those sports where there are still multiple exposure dates, e.g., volleyball and wrestling - where "one" of the season maximums happens to be a multi-event but still is only counted "one" of the season max exposures .... now the student must miss the entire day.
Q.: Our athletic code does not cover fighting directly. It covers conduct unbecoming of an athlete. We have had some athletes in the past get involved in fights over that past 10 years and all have been handled via a school suspension where warranted, but none have resulted in an athletic code violation. Obviously, the athlete would miss anything on the days he/she was suspended. My question is do athletic codes need to cover something like fighting specifically or is "conduct unbecoming of an athlete" acceptable and then the schools can handle each situation as they feel they need to?
A.: For those schools that believe fighting in/around school, or on a playing field is not acceptable, it is my impression that most simply interpret and apply their "conduct unbecoming" provisions. To suggest that "fighting" and/or each specific "deed or act" somehow needs to be itemized on an all-inclusive list is absurd. In the highest of expectations we hold for our student athletes, where/when/how could one seek to justify, argue or rationalize that "fighting" is somehow, acceptable and "becoming" behavior? Why would a school not want to leverage the privilege of sport participation in efforts to diminish and extin- guish such behavior? Bottom line, it is your responsibility to interpret your code. So long as it is done in a consistent manner it is not unreasonable to view fighting as conduct unbecoming. Most of us would.
Q.: We are currently adding performance-enhancing substance (PES) language to our athletic code. Will the WIAA be sending us some kind of list to define the exact PES substances that we are talking about so that we can include that information in our athletic code also? Our school board wants that specific information includ- ed in the code.
A.: The WIAA Medical Advisory Committee recommended adopting the NCAA banned substance list. I anticipate Board of Control approval (end of June) but will know better after Sports Advisory, June 12. If approved, we will move caffeine from NCAA banned* status to a "WIAA discouraged" category (since you likely won't drug test to determine caffeine in excess amounts). Same with creatine and a small num- ber of other substances. In the weeks ahead and over the summer we will also be creating some addition- al information/materials for you to use, which I think will be better then just giving AD's the NCAA banned list, but that tool is not built yet. You could just add/incorporate the text that was added at the Annual Meeting and then provide the "specifics" of the banned substances at the start of classes in the fall.
5-5-06
Q.: I was informed by a business owner that one of our athletes was involved with a police task force that sends underage people into businesses to buy alcohol. He was directed to enter a bar and try to buy beer. If he is successful, then the business is issued a ticket. I feel that this practice puts us in a difficult situation because our pol- icy states that a student is suspended from co-curricular activities if they use or possess alcohol. I will contact the police to see if they can stop the use of co-curricular participants. I wanted to get your take on this situation.
A.: The WIAA would not view this activity - working voluntarily in cooperation with, and under the direct supervision of law enforcement - in the same light as illegal possession and/or consumption. We would not view this as a violation of the participation code. In fact, might be described and "counted" in some dis- tricts as civil/community service. Second, you've gotten a story "second hand" from a business owner. I strongly suggest you have the police verify. Otherwise, you may have a clever alibi being offered.
3-29-06
Q.: I am a parent of an athlete. Last June my son attended a free sports physical in June that was put on by a group of providers. They completed a thorough exam and an MD signed a form; however, it is not on the yel- low WIAA card. I am being told that this will not be accepted for this spring track season, and that I must get a new card signed again. Is this true or can I attach the original signed form to the schools green card and at the physician signature line write in 'see attached'?
A.: You may find the WIAA's requirement for a pre-participation exam in the Rules At A Glance docu- ment. See: II-J. The WIAA prints and distributes the green physical exam form to our members as a service. The requirements we prescribe are that the current physical be signed by an MD or APNP...Dates be current/valid and that it be on file before a student is allowed to practice. There is not a WIAA require- ment that the physical must be on our form. Many students will use a military physical, foreign exchange students will use the form provided them in their home country. Some clinics use their own form for their own filing convenience. There may be some other valid reason your school has chosen not to acknowledge the physical taken last June - but it need not have anything to do with the paper it's recorded on - at least from the WIAA's perspective.
Q.: 1) What are the guidelines that a school has to follow when developing their athletic code? 2) Can a school have an athlete with three violations still be eligible to play sports? 3) Can they change their athletic code to make this athlete eligible?
A.: 1. Rules of Eligibility Code requirements are found in the Senior High Handbook (Under Publications icon) Art. VII Health and Behavior. 2. It could be possible. By a third code violation - in most schools a third confirmed violation is usually a fairly severe consequence – entire season or a three strikes and out provision – but not at all schools. 3. School Boards do have authority for addressing all school policy via procedural review. Athletic codes are school board approved - or adopted. When administration or others arbitrarily alter what is written - don't apply their rules as they are written - that's typically when teams forfeit games and/or are removed from tournament eligibility.
12-16-05
Q.: We have a student who turned 18 and is no longer living at home. Does this student need a parent signature on the WIAA athletic cards to participate?
A.: Yes. Access to sport remains a privilege..and "whether an adult or not"...style provisions apply.
Q.: Are school-sponsored "club teams" (such as our soccer team) under the jurisdiction of our athletic code? The team receives very little from the school other than a field to play on.
A.: WIAA membership requires code and signature for interscholastic competition in WIAA sponsored sports. Though it may not be required for e.g., a lacrosse team (non-WIAA program) or a club soccer team most schools require/apply participation codes to any clubs and activities sponsored by the school. Also, many student athletes participate in clubs outside their sport season. Those youngsters are still bound by the sport code.
Q.: We have an athlete who is currently under doctor's care and taking a prescription medication. I understand that this is classified as a "narcotic" and would more than likely show a positive on a drug test if taken. Under current guidelines, I believe this athlete would be able to participate in basketball without peril. Is that a correct understanding?
A.: Yes, prescription medications are not viewed as any sort of violation by the WIAA - when used by the student the meds have been prescribed to - in accordance with the directions and prescription of the doc- tor. Caution: With some prescription meds, especially asthma related inhalers, students might be inclined to "share" - as unwise and inappropriate as it might be. If/when a prescription medication is used by any- one other then the student whose name is on the prescription, then you have a "code" issue (at the least).
11-11-05
Q.: Where I can find information on athletes who wear medical ID bracelets? Are they allowed to wear them during competition?
A.: You can check the National Federation Playing Rules books for the sport specific requirements with respect to medical alert information. They are allowed in most sports, but may require some taping, etc. Also see the WIAA Sport Medical Policy/Procedure manual, either in your school or on-line. Page 24 has a matrix of allowable auxiliary equipment. Medic alert medals/bracelets are not considered jewelry.
10-21-05
Q.: I am the principal of a combined middle/high school. Students in grades 6-12 are in one building. We recent- ly had two students violate the athletic code by being at an alcohol party with an older sibling. We are enforcing our code for the two middle school students. The siblings had graduated from high school last year. Should these students start "fresh" their freshman year of high school? In a larger district, this would most likely be the case. What is you opinion on this matter?
A.: This is your call. The WIAA does not have a "requirement" that middle level code violations be car- ried over/forward on into high school. One of the fundamental reasons the WIAA does not have the carry over requirement is for the simple fact that in some of our larger districts students may be coming to the high school from several middle schools. In that setting and given the diverse and variable athletics admin- istration and record keeping at the middle level, the chance for using an ineligible player, now in high school is greatly enhanced. It's for this reason - primarily - that there is not a carry over rule. In districts where record-keeping is solid and communication less likely to break down, it may be appropriate for an un-served code of conduct violation to be served. Otherwise, you will eventually encounter a situation where due to the sport seasons of involvement of individual students, there will be students involved in the same violation setting, some who are "in season" others who may not be until their "next season" in 9th grade, thus some will be penalized while others will appear to "get off." This impression makes the code appear arbitrary to parents and students. If you wish to give a fresh start from the "counting/recording" aspect, again - up to you. In other words, once all middle level codes are resolved the student goes back to "first" violation status. Some feel this is contrary to their communities/districts expectations - since the code is the same at the middle level as at the HS, and once the students are made aware, they are expect- ed to observe the code throughout their school competition careers.
Q.: I have a question regarding an athletic code violation. If a student is suspended for half of a season and the last regular season game of the season fulfills his/her half season requirement, is that student eligible for the tournament series?
A.: Yes. Just can not miss one/any - of the tournament series contests for a code of conduct suspension.
10-7-05
Q.: A youngster on one of our teams informed the coach of a medical situation. The student is HIV positive. The coach found out earlier today, and the athlete is not participating in practice tonight. What are your thoughts. What is your best advice? What would be our best practice?
A.: If I am reading between the lines, correctly. Your student has practiced, others have possibly been exposed. Best advice: Gather as much clear/complete information now....re-trace prior days of practice, wounds, etc., do as much reconstructing as may be possible. Use the student, coaches, managers, parents. Focus - in advance. If things get busy/emotional later on, have as much "good" info as you can piece together now. Get accurate information for all communication later on. Your district may wish to consid- er constructing a thoughtful/helpful informational statement anticipating the questions that may arise. You will want to consult with medical experts, and possibly DPI may prove a helpful resource. Identify ONE source to speak for the district. Perhaps our medical advisory team will have a source for help, too. If this student has been in contact and participating to this point of the season - best advice will come from our sport medical advisory team and will be forwarded ASAP. You may anticipate that those students who were in contact – they and their parents may need to be informed/tested. Did the student participate in a scrimmage? First game? vs. who? Whatever the final direction you choose to go, it is advisable to discuss your district's plan with your legal counsel.
Q.: My concern is in regards to Doctors of Chiropractic being allowed to perform school (high school and mid- dle school) physicals. There are a few chiropractors that may be performing the physicals on behalf of a previ- ous principal that had stated "chiropractors can perform them and they will be accepted by the school" and this has been over three years since our previous principal left. I have been on your website and viewed the Medical Policy Manual as well as the Senior and Junior High Handbooks in regards to the physicals and they all refer to the statement," Current physical fitness to participate in sport as determined by a licensed physician or Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) no less than every other school year....". Which in simple english states noth- ing about chiropractors. I believe that the governing body, i.e.: WIAA has the final statement and I would like to make sure that none of our athletes are being put at risk for eligibility.
A.: First, the WIAA's rule has not changed. ONLY MD's and/or APNP's have been thus far, authorized by our member schools to provide WIAA school sport pre participation exams. This is not a local control issue. It is a provision of membership. Noncompliance with the requirement would place a member in a vulnerable position both in respect to their liability, should a student, be injured, but also with respect to their membership in the Association. For your more complete understanding, allow me to go one step fur- ther in explaining. If an area middle school/jr. high (or any other school) is not a WIAA member, techni- cally WIAA rules do not apply. A nonmember school and/or district might choose to allow what ever form of screening they wish. They might not require anything at all - except what's necessary to allow a child to attend school.
9-15-05
Q.: I don't know whom to address this issue but I am interested to hear if this is happening at the state level or just in our school. In the last year we have had four students get serious aggressive staph infections. Two wrestlers got it during the season after away tournaments, one football player got it after he sprained his knee, and another wrestler picked it up at a college wrestling camp. I have seen numerous articles in national publica- tions about the rising cases around the country. Are there some things we can do as coaches state wide and in our school to help protect our students or recognize an infection?
A.: Glad to see you're reading some materials. The WIAA has put numbers of articles/alerts in the Bulletin and on the school center site as this topic has surfaced across the country. The WIAA's Sport Medical Advisory discussed this topic as recently as this past June. To my knowledge it has not become widespread in WI but it has been seen here. Those things which a coach and school can do - that can make a differ- ence begin with cleanliness...uniforms, facilities and bodies. Shower promptly after practices/games. Use soap. Be certain practice and game apparel (including elbow/knee pads/sleeves, etc.) are laundered. Wash/sanitize duffel bags. Carry apparel inside plastic bags in duffels. Keep the locker room environment clean and dry. I must imagine that most of the products your maintenance staff uses are appropriate to combat staph and other related concerns. Be observant/create awareness and educate your athletes, coaches and parents. Properly treat all scrapes, including "minor" ones. No scratch is too small to ignore. Anything which persists, get to a medical professional promptly. The CA-MRSA (staph) that you are like- ly reading about is aggressive. I have not heard of any "magic cures or silver bullets" for this strain. The preventative measures of clean bodies and clean environment and prompt cleaning of all scrapes/wounds - is probably the same "best practice" information you will get just about everywhere you research. If I receive any additional tips or updates you can rest assured we will make every effort to get the information out to the membership, ASAP.
8-22-05
Q.: We are conducting sports physicals and a pediatrician would like to use a form other than the WIAA green card. If unclear, ,I could also get a copy and let you review it.
A.: It is the pre-participation exam (by an MD/DO or APNP) which is required. We print the forms as a service and convenience for our members and many clinics. If the school wishes to make their own form for recording, or accept a different form from a local MD or clinic, that is the school's prerogative. The fundamental requirement is that proof of a current exam is on file...and parents provide written authori- zation that their child may participate.
Q.: My son is 16 and is interested in using creatine as a supplement. I do not think this is a good idea and am looking for guidance on how to discourage the use of creatine. I know some states have issued statements against the use of supplements for team athletes and was wondering if Wisconsin has thought about this.
A.: The discussion and debate on the topics of supplements, performance enhancement, steroids, drug testing - and many other related subjects is a regular occurrence in this office. We believe the vast major- ity of school aged athletes would be far better served with time/money and attention being paid to great nutrition and hard work. With creatine being a "legal" food supplement, we find that to place it on the same list as alcohol/tobacco and other legally - controlled substances - to be a difficult "stretch" of our authority. A stretch which may be unenforceable for our members. You can find our "Position Statement" in our Medical Policies and Procedures manual - on our website/ Left Margin - HEALTH, p.25 (we sup- port and have adopted the National Federations position).
4-14-05
Q.: Does the WIAA consider junior high as a separate code than high school? In other words, if an athlete would have an athletic code violation in junior high and sit the appropriate suspension, does that carry over into high school, or does the athlete have a clean slate? That would mean any violation in high school would be considered as the athlete's first.
A.: This is an area that school's have control of the decision. The WIAA does not require codes carry over from middle school to senior high. I have heard sound arguments for carrying them over. There are some sound arguments for the "clean slate" to begin 9th grade. It's your call.
Q.: I am asking your advice about a request from a parent to waive physical examination, hearing, vision, and/or screening. I have a written waiver request from the parent of a student who plans to participate in sports this sea- son. What should my response be?
A.: For Reference See: WIAA Senior High Handbook, p.39, Article VII Section 1 A. "A student may not practice for or participate in interscholastic athletics until the school has written evidence on file in its office attesting to (a) parental permission each school year and (b) current physical fitness to participate in sports as determined by a licensed physician or Advanced Practice Nurse Prescriber (APNP) no less than every other school year ...." There is no waiver or exception to the requirement for a physical exam.
3-25-05
Q.: Are managers of teams required to have a current physical on file?
A.: Not by WIAA rules. Only students who will be competing interscholastically...are required. If as a school policy you wished the added "insurance" nothing would prevent that.
10-26-04
Q.: I have a question regarding concussions. Someone in a different conference told me that there is a WIAA rule that states if you have a certain number of concussions in a football season, you can no longer play. Could you please let me know if this is a WIAA rule?
A.: I don't want to read too much into your question, but I must be candid. What might lie at the "root" of your question causes me great concern. The WIAA does not have a specific rule on number of concus- sions before a student may not continue participation. That determination needs to be made between the family, the school and the student's doctor. The help of an experienced MD is essential if you're looking at multiple concussions. Please work closely with your physician. I understand the pressures and emotions which can be a part of this decision-making process. Do not allow emotions to weigh out over good judge- ment. No game is worth never walking again, no hindsight can bring a youngster back to life.
Q.: My son has been suspended from sports for one school year. He has an under age drinking citation and broke the school code of conduct by a nonlawful act, as a matter of fact, the only reason the school dismissed him was a parent called into school, otherwise nothing would have happened. Since it was his second offense he was then suspended from all co-curricular events for this school year. What I would like to know is 1. Do you dictate any rule for the above or is it strictly a school rule, and 2. If he were to transfer to another school district next year would these offenses go with him and stand up at a different school?
A.: The WIAA requires a school have a code of conduct. It is most typical/common to see the sanctions increase when multiple or more serious violations take place. The school's suspension will follow your son to any school - for the same length of time as he would be ineligible at his present school.
10-8-04
Q.: Does the WIAA have any rules concerning an accusation made against a student and at what point that student should become ineligible? For example: someone accuses a student of drinking at a family gathering. It was ok for the student to be there, but not to drink. Is it ok for the student to participate in athletics until the circumstances are being investigated and substantiated or should the student be immediately suspended from athletics while investigation is ongoing?
A.: A school must have a code of conduct as a provision of its membership in this Association. The mem- ber is required to apply their code, as it's written, when they believe it has been violated. Obviously, they should not suspend a student if they are uncertain. But when they reach a stage in their investigation that brings them to the point of believing the code was broken, then they should apply the provisions of their code. WIAA rules would not prevent a student from practicing while an investigation is underway. A coach may have second thoughts about playing a student if there's the distraction and/or potential for forfeitures, etc. (Most schools will attempt to expedite this investigation and determination to the extent they are able to legitimately do so...in order that these sorts of uncertainties may be prevented as much as possible). Don't confuse the school code with a standard of innocence and guilt that would be neces- sary and appropriate in a court of law. We're not talking about State or Federal law here, or about depriving anyone of personal freedoms or civil rights as afforded by law. We're talking about the priv- ilege of sport eligibility and being held out of a game...if it comes to be determined that the code was violated.
Q.: I was wondering if the WIAA has a ruling on the eligibility of a high school senior who has been criminally charged with a sexual offense? Are they still allowed to continue playing high school sports while the case is being tried, or pending? Are they still allowed to play high school sports if they are convicted?
A.: A member school is required to apply their participation code, when they believe the code's been vio- lated. This should be done independent of the courts since the privilege of sport participation (or its restriction) is not the same as considering whether someone should be denied civil liberties. We are not addressing civil rights with school participation codes. Some school codes will have a more substantial penalty for addressing more serious violations. Many schools codes have not been updated to account for the more serious sorts of "legal" offenses and schools may find themselves embarrassed when a stu- dent, who has a very serious civil offense is allowed to return to competition with only a one or two game suspension.
Q.: A student was planning on participating in football but was suspended from the first nine weeks because of grades. He had a code violation for alcohol this past summer. He is going out for basketball. Does he have to sit a game in basketball for his alcohol violation?
A.: Many schools and ADs would say "yes" to this, by virtue of the fact that the students status was one of not being "eligible" to serve the suspension. The WIAA has left that determination to the schools. Has the student attended every single football practice and games could be a factor in helping you decide. You might consider a formal report from the football coach on whether the student may be considered to have served the suspension, etc.
9-16-04
Q.: My son is a high school sophomore, and is diabetic. In July, he was put on a insulin pump. Is he able to wear this while playing in WIAA sports?
A.: An insulin pump would be allowed to be worn during competition in all WIAA sports (legal - non required equipment). I need to caution you that some sports will require some additional padding. You might encounter a sport official who may have reservations in allowing it due to either being improperly covered/padded, or due to the official's inexperience and certainty. Be patient. Educate. You and your AD can do some things to help assure an opportunity might be as successful as it can be by reviewing the matrix on p. 24 of the WIAA's Sport Medical Policy/Procedures manual...and even duplicating the infor- mation for your child's coach to carry to contests. You might also have your son's MD jot a brief note indi- cating the "authorized" use/need for the pump to be worn. If these steps are taken, I will anticipate your son would have few, if any, minor setbacks.
Q.: Do poms and cheerleading need physicals like the rest of the athletes and secondly, do the coaches need to be ASEP certified or a teacher?
A.: WIAA is not an activity association. We do not sponsor or regulate cheer and pom. Schools will regu- late these activities as they see fit. It is most understandable and defendable to require all the same ele- ments for participation as you do for other similar/comparable activities. At many schools the cheer/pom are very active and competitive, their training and performance comparable in some ways to gymnasts, subsequently most schools will require preparticipation exams and all other requirements same as for all other athletes.
Q.: A question has arisen about WIAA sports physicals – we abide by the dates set forth on the card, i.e. exam- ination taken after April 1 is good for the following two years and examination taken before April 1 is good for the remainder of that school year. A nurse at a surrounding community clinic called and said that "other" school districts go by the date of the physical. For example, if a student has a physical on Feb. 1 (which is before April 1), his physical would be good for the remainder of that school year and then the next year he would be required to get a parent permission card signed and so on. What this nurse is saying is that a physical should be good from the date it is given for two years from THAT date.
A.: As you have described your "understanding and application" of this WIAA Rule of Eligibility it appears to me you have the correct understanding. As I understood your description, it appears you are in compliance with the Handbook text found on p. 39, Article VII Section 1A. Note the statement con- tained in the "box" below Section 1A. Please share this information with the nurse and if possible with those schools who are mis-informed and in non compliance.
Q.: If a student who hasn't participated in sports since his freshman year, and has had an underage drinking violation, decides to go out for a sport his senior year, is he ineligible per the rules of the schools athletic code?
A.: There would be no WIAA rule which would prevent the student from "going out" for a sport in the scenario you describe. The school would need to determine if the suspension for drinking needed to be served by a review of their schools code.
8-23-04
Q.: Like many schools, some of our coaches have created additional consequences for behavior violations that are more strict than our code. This right is communicated in writing in our code. Sports that do, must also have those additional consequences in writing to parents. You were quoted in the paper here saying, "If expecta- tions....are not fairly, uniformly and or consistently applied, that's not right." Are you suggesting that we should not be creating additional consequences because that means they are not uniform?
A.: No, not at all. The difficulties which arose at another school, at least from our perspective, were not singularly or simply due to the coach having their own "team rules." (Though it may be a fair question: Why should/must the expectations in one program be higher then in any other? Are high standards/expec- tations not universally desirable?) As you know, policy which is more restrictive then the membership's minimum are permissible. If you/your Board of Ed, wish to provide coaches with a certain amount of autonomy, that is "do-able". Two succinct points: 1. Be certain the policy and authority for coaches to cre- ate their own team rules is documented, universally communicated/understood/approved and supported at all administrative levels, by the Board of Ed, all appropriate parent groups and by the community at large. 2. If a head coach adopts added "team rules", then those rules must be consistently/uniformly and equitably applied w/in the team....from the "All-Conference, senior/captain on down to the 4th teamer. The quotes you mention were offered from that perspective, i.e. the coach administering the team code consistently/uniformly within the team level.
7-2-04
Q.: We are in the process of revising our Activity Policy. In reviewing a number of policies from other schools, I noticed that some of them had a statement within their policy that warned students and their parents of the risks inherent in participation in athletic competition. Some also had a sheet which the parents/students signed, indi- cating that they understood those risks and accepted them as a part of competing. We have discussed including such a statement(s) in our new policy and my school board has asked me to find out if the WIAA has their own statement of this type or what exactly your position is on such a statement. I have looked over the website and the Handbook and have not found any such statement. Do you have something on this order or do you have any guidelines that we should use in determining whether or not we should include such a statement and if so, what that statement should consist of?
A.: The trend in recent years is to have some sort of cautionary statement which might be included in order to participate in school sports among the items parents sign, in efforts to create a level of awareness, an informed consent. Some have encouraged the cautionary statement to be sport specific; that the risks inherent in track/field will be different then those in gymnastics, vs. football or hockey, e.g. Some districts are satisfied to have a single general statement. The WIAA does not have a statement that it recommends. It is quite often developed with the assistance of a districts own legal counsel, or might be taken or pat- terned after one developed by another school. While the WIAA does not have an "official position" on this topic, it seems to be a reasonable idea to inform students and parents of potential risks involved in sport participation.
Q.: During the five days of coaching contact does the health insurance from the regular season apply? If it does, how do we get 8th graders that will be 9th graders in the fall, included on that insurance?
A.: First, the WIAA has no health insurance requirement for participation in WIAA programs. The stu- dent is covered by whatever the family has/or doesn't have, in the way of health/accident protection. Some member schools own participation policies may require the student/family carry some protection in order to participate in school programs. Most schools will at the least have information on an economical policy for students whose families do not have adequate health care coverage. For non-school/summer pro- grams it would be up to the event sponsor whether to require the participant to have health insurance cov- erage and how much, etc., as a condition for access to the opportunity.
Q.: We are currently dealing with a situation where a student may be suspended from competition during the WIAA tournament. If they were to be suspended for conduct unbecoming a team member, and miss a WIAA tournament game would they be eligible for the remainder of the tournament?
A.: If a student misses a tournament series game as a result of a code of conduct violation as explained on p. 39 of the Handbook (See section 2, letter B). The student is not eligible for the remainder of the tournament series.
Q.: My softball coach informed me that he was told during a softball game the starting pitcher for our opponent is pregnant. Apparently our coach also addressed the opposing coach if he was aware of the fact, the coach said yes. My coach is not questioning this school and their policy but wondering what the conference felt on matters like this. Obviously the safety and well being of the mother and child is at hand. I am not sure if the conference wants to get involved in situations like this or should it be left up to the school and their athletic dept. Again my coach is not looking for a decision effecting the outcome of the game, we won. He is just concerned if a young woman should be playing high school sports while carrying a child.
A.: This is not all that uncommon. The 'WIAA' does not have a rule that prohibits a pregnant student from participating. Friendly advice is...It would be ill-advised to deny the student participation due only to the fact that she is pregnant. This has been affirmed as "discriminatory" on multiple occasions. It may be reasonable to ask for the written approval of the MD. The young woman has certainly had a change of health status since her "physical"/participation exam was likely placed on file with the school. It is not unreasonable for the school to request such medical clearance/reassurance, or a more current physical exam to be on file in order to play and to allow the school to protect themselves. The opinion on weather the prospective mother should or shouldn't play and any potential health concerns for a fetus are not with- in the authority of this coach to make or influence.
4-30-04
Q.: I have reason to believe that an athlete at our high school is using ephedra and possibly steroids. The athlete has improved dramatically in sprint times and has made comments about taking whatever the parent instructs, including drugs "that aren't illegal to use, just illegal to buy." There is history of steroid use in the family. Is there anything we can do to trigger an investigation of some kind? Is there any advice you can give us on this matter? I know it is very difficult to prove this, and that these are serious allegations. I don't want to start anything that will have adverse effects on my family, I just want to make sure that what is going on is legal and fair for all stu- dents involved throughout the WIAA. If the athlete is taking illegal supplements, athletes from all over the state will be affected.
A.: Both ephedra and "steroids" are controlled substances and as such, are subject to the school applying its code of conduct should an athlete be found in possession or using either, in violation of that code. Certainly "fairness" and "competitive equity" are an understandable "part" of this concern. Candidly, the far more distressing concerns are the potential health risks associated with both ephedra and steroid use. Bluntly, they are of a far greater concern to me then any race or medal. The BEST way for you to address this is to bring your proof of this concern to the attention of your school's administration. When I say "proof," keep in mind that you are correct in that this is a REAL serious issue of concern, that your "proof" ought to ideally, be "bullet-proof." However, even if it isn't, if you are convinced that a child's life might be on the line...then you contact the school administrator and ask of an opportunity to visit "confi- dentially"... and begin by acknowledging that you don't have concrete evidence to back up your concern, only circumstantial, and that you realize the school may have a difficult time acting upon circumstantial evidence and/or speculation...but that it is important enough that your conscience requires that you make them aware of your concern. As a former AD, I had any number of these types of meetings...while I may not have been able to take immediate action on a concern, the information will always allow a school administrator to "look with informed eyes," and that's a big PLUS! I direct you towards your school since your school's administration is obligated to maintain "institutional control" over their coaches, athletes and programs as a provision of their membership in this Association. If your AD brushes off this concern, you must bring it to your principal and/or school nurse. If you are correct, this has the potential of life and death consequences. If you have concrete evidence to support your concern there will be no way the school can ignore it. It is understandable and acceptable that you might choose to address this with another school official, other then AD or Principal, if there's one who you feel particularly confident, would respect your confidentiality on the matter, etc. and yet "act" on your evidence. But as I said, this is serious and can not be ignored.