12-16-10
Out of Season Clarification
The membership rules do not permit reduced team competitions during the school season (3-on-3 basket- ball or soccer, etc.). However, during the school year out-of-season, the reduced format would be permissible with 3-on-3 basketball or soccer leagues or tournaments. The assembly of students resembling a school team practicing or competing does still apply during the school year out-of-season.
4-24-10
Q.: Can I put my JV boys basketball team in a spring basketball league right now without getting into trouble? No coaches would be coaching them. It would be one of the kids dads. It's a seven week league playing on Sunday nights. It would start on March 28 and go though May 9.
A.: You've pointed out that coaches may not have contact out-of-season with the exception of the five unre- stricted days in the summertime. Athletes may voluntarily participate in a league out-of-season during the school year. But keep in mind the member schools of our Association have the following rule: It is the phi- losophy of this Association that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resem- ble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season. No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from the same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The way you advanced your question, the answer is no that a team could not be in a league unless diversified. "An acceptable non school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – non school activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a school's team practicing or competing out-of-season." Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/non-school team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season.
Q.: I am going to run a summer basketball camp and am currently the JV boys basketball coach at our high school. I will be running the camp at the high school and need to know if students entering the 9th grade can attend the camp. I will be doing all of the instruction.
A.: Schools are allowed to provide/create summertime clinic/instructional opportunities for students that have just completed 8th grade or below. Varsity and JV coaches can have coaching contact with students who have just completed 8th grade or any preceding grade up until these 8th graders actually start their 9th grade year.
Q.: We are planning a basic basketball skills development physical education class to be offered during summer school. I just want to confirm with you whether schools are allowed to do this or not.
A.: My reference is to the WIAA Handbook and the membership Bylaws (page 26). The Bylaw (Art II, Sect 2, Par A, #1) states: A school may not assemble athletes or prospective athletes in physical education classes, or some other manner, for purposes of teaching fundamentals, techniques, plays, etc., except dur- ing the designated school season of a sport, and during the approved summertime contact period noted below in B – Exceptions. The exceptions are the five summer contact days and six days of clinic for 8th grade and below. Therefore, it appears that the class suggested by your middle school physical education teacher would not be appropriate.
Q.: I have a question regarding the rule about use of school equipment - out-of-season - nonschool use/sum- mertime (Art. III, Section 1, A.) I have a parent who contacted me that her son is attending a baseball clinic at a business that works with kids on things like hitting, pitching, catching, etc. He is a catcher. She wants to know if he can use school catchers equipment - for safety reasons. Based on what I am reading in the rule - we can only issue the safety equipment in the summer. We can allow the use of implements such as bats, balls, etc., but not safety equipment like batting helmets and catchers gear. I am struggling to see the logic in this rule. We can allow them to use some of the equipment, but not the stuff to keep them safe and healthy. How are schools respecting this rules as it comes to open gyms? I know our softball coach uses helmets from the summer pro- gram team for their open gyms during the winter. We don't have a summer baseball program to go to - as we play WIAA summer baseball. Please advise on this.
A.: You are correct in the rule. Protective equipment and uniforms may only be issued during the actual sport season and the summer. To the best of my knowledge, our member schools respect the rule, and I have answered many inquiries about the rule. The mom may wish to check with a local American Legion team for equipment if you do not have a summer program with baseball.
Q.: I have a question regarding FFA basketball games. I had a request today from my FFA president to schedule an FFA basketball game (high school students) between our FFA chapter and the neighboring high school FFA chapter. Is this type of thing allowed?
A.: I would caution your school about holding an interscholastic event outside of the basketball season (Bylaws, p. 26, Art II, Sect 2, Par A). The best advice since this is an interscholastic event is to limit par- ticipation to only those individuals who have used their eligibility up (seniors) in basketball. Since both teams have completed their school season, this event constitutes a second season of the sport (p35 Art V, Sect 1, Par A, #3c) and participation would eliminate another year of basketball for (freshmen-juniors). Athletes are limited to four different seasons in their career (p. 35, Art V, Sect 1, Par A, #3b).
Q.: The high school basketball club is sponsoring a girls all-star game on Sunday. One of our volunteer coach- es has been asked to announce the game. In looking at the language found in the rules at a glance it says schools can have no involvement with these games in the school year. Therefore, my thought is that our volunteer coach could not do this. Am I correct or could he announce the game?
A.: You are correct. Administrators, athletic directors, coaches (paid or unpaid) shall not become involved directly or indirectly with the coaching, management, direction, and/or promotion of any kind of all-star game during the school year (Handbook, p. 28, Bylaws, Art IV, Sect 1, Par A).
3-15-10
Q.: I am a first year head boys basketball coach. Our booster program wants to sponsor a team tournament as a fundraiser the last weekend in March. I am hearing that there are restrictions on how many players from a school's varsity team can be on a team. For this tournament, anyone would be able to put together a team and play. There would not be restrictions based on school or team status. We do not want to violate any rules so please advise us on the regulations.
A.: Your best resource is your athletic director. There are restrictions, and they can be found on page 37 of the membership's WIAA Handbook in article VI, Section 2, Paragraph A: It is the philosophy of this Association that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school sea- son of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season. No pre-season or post-season team should be made up exclusively of students from the same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The rule applies outside the sport season during the school year and not during the summer. Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/non-school team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season.
2-5-10
Q.: I had a few questions regarding a high school athlete's participation in track & field Collegiate "Open" Meets: I plan to coach in the spring in this sport but am currently under contract as a teacher and basketball coach for the school. There are a few track meets at universities this year that are "open," meaning, whenever some- body signs up for the meet, they pay a small fee and they can run, so long as they are a certain age. The age is usually at 18 years old. At our school, there are a few seniors that might greatly benefit from getting an experi- ence to compete early in the season and have colleges notice their talent. I plan on going to at least one of these meets. I am wondering what the rules are in regards to a student/athlete participating in one of these meets (even if not "representing" our school), what the rules would be concerning travel (if I am going to the meets, may (an) athlete(s) travel with me), and – if this is allowed – is there a limit on how many miles away a track meet may be or other stipulations regarding travel or competition?
A.: An athlete may participate in meets outside of the season, but must report to the school team when the school practice/contest season begins. Coaches and schools may not have contact with athletes and pro- vide transportation of athletes outside of the season during the school year. In season, this type of oppor- tunity would be acceptable only if the school coach attends and the meet is counted toward the maximum allowed meets on their schedule.
Q.: We are in the process of organizing a summer AAU basketball team. We need clarification on something. It is our understanding from reading RE, Article VI, Section II that there are no restrictions as to the number of stu- dents from one school district being on a team, as long as there is no practice or competition during the actual school year and there is no coach/school involvement with this team.
A.: You have the basic details correct. Students may assemble in any manner during the summertime (from the last day of school until the first day of school). Coaches may only have five days of contact between the last day of school and July 31.
Q.: I'm not sure how to interpret summer baseball rules and just wanted verification. Our high school team com- petes in summer baseball but several of the guys would like to compete in a spring league; the team would be made up of players that play at different levels (varsity, JV, freshmen) and would not be coached by any of the high school coaches – is this permitted? Can I have a tournament team after the season that is compiled from players at the same high school?
A.: The summer season begins on May 14, 2010. During the school year, the membership rules limit stu- dents when they resemble a school team practicing or competing. No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from the same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The rule applies outside the sport season during the school year and not during the summer. During the summer (after the last day of school and before the first day of school), baseball has unlimited "non-school" con- tact. Therefore, baseball players could assemble in any manner and their coach could coach them provid- ed the team is based as a non-school team without any school involvement in transportation, costs, etc. "An acceptable non-school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and non school activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season."
12-18-09
Q.: Just double checking on something: A school can issue protective equipment in the off-season to a student who intends to go to a camp – Article III in the Handbook says that a school can do this in the summertime butwhat about if the clinic is during the school year – for example, a baseball catcher wants to go to a clinic/camp in December – he requests the use of the catching equipment from the school – can the school allow the student to use this protective equipment for this clinic, as it is out-of-season?
A.: Our rules indicate that member schools with school board of education approval may issue protective equipment during the summertime and sport season only. The student might check with your local recre- ation department to see if they would allow students to check out their equipment for a camp, or they may check with the camp host to see if participants may use or rent their equipment.
10-23-09
Q.: Our local YMCA Director has arranged for the UW-Platteville men's basketball team to come to put on a free one hour clinic for any boys & girls basketball players in our community. My question is, can middle school/high school age basketball players participate in this? The date is Tuesday, Nov. 3 and they are going to use the HS gyms.
A.: So long as it is an acceptable non-school opportunity with UW Platteville and available to any/all inter- ested students, not restricted based on school or team affiliation, is voluntary and does not resemble a schools team practicing and/or competing out-of-season. If school is still in-session, coach contact restric- tions must be observed. Use caution with the camp fees - A "free camp" opportunity would be acceptable so long as it is advertised as a "free camp" and so long as it is a free camp to all kids who come from all over your region (not just free for your students). Coaches from your school should be cautious if they plan to attend and observe that they do not appear to violate any coaching contact rules. Note it has to be open to anyone from anywhere and voluntary.
Q.: I run our local fastpitch organization and am looking for clarification on players that will be on their respec- tive high school teams in the spring. What restrictions are there for players to work out/train with our club team in the winter and can they also practice with us during the high school season and/or participate in a spring week- end tourney? We have no direct contact with the high school coaching staff.
A.: We have several rules which govern the athletes participation depending upon the time of the year. During the school year and out-of-season: The rule: "an acceptable non-school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – non-school activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season." (ROE, page 37, VI-2-A.) No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The question to ask yourself is – does this feel like compliance or circumvention? You can recognize that having my nine returning players from the same school and adding one guy, somebody's cousin from another school – does not address the desires or discussions we have heard from our members. I would advise organizers, especially in pre-season leagues to see that teams are as diverse as as they can possibly be. The best practice advice we've provided in the past – stands; i.e. Non-school teams should be as diverse as you can possibly make them. You are aware of the 'hard numbers' the board has already advanced one time. They were quite narrow. By the same token, the attitude of the "token wrestler" seems to no longer be acceptable. I can tell you there has also been dis- cussion of not more then 50 per cent of the roster and 50 per cent of participants on the floor/field at any- time should be from same school. So that may be a guide. Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/non school team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions created by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible. During the school year and in-season: A student becomes ineligible in a sport for the remainder of the season for competing in non- school game, meet, or contest in the same sport during the season of practice and competition established by the school. (ROE, page 37, VI-1-A). During the summer: Teams may assemble provided the experience is voluntary and not based on school affiliation. Q.: Has anything been finalized on the legality of pre-season basketball tourneys (prior to Nov 16)? I know I heard about 10 different stories from 10 different coaches last fall. I have received some invites and don't want to do anything until I find out we are not breaking any rules. A.: The question is not whether the tournament is legal or not, but rather than whether the teams which are playing in the tournament are comprised of players properly. The nonschool participation out-of-sea- son rule states: "It is the philosophy of this Association that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during any actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season" (ROE, p. 37, Art VI, Sect 2, Par A). Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/non school team is diverse and is not able to be iden- tified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions created by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
9-18-09
Q.: Our PTO group is having the Harlem Wizards basketball team here for a fund raiser in September. They asked if members of the 2009-10 high school team could play against the Wizards. What is the response?
A.: Keep in mind that the out-of-season assembly rule states, no activity in which they are engaged dur- ing the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season. (ROE, page 37m VI-2-A) "An acceptable non-school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" – and – non-school activities in which students are engaged "may not resem- ble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season." Best friendly advice, best practice - an alumni team or a staff team.
Q.: Can athletes who are out-of-season (basketball) use their activity account (overseen by the coach) for a team building activity (ropes course) as long as they are voluntarily assembling? The school will not be providing any type of transportation to this event.
A.: The easiest answer is to hold the activity during the sport season. However, if the school wants to offer this opportunity to any and all students as a voluntary activity, then it would be acceptable. It cannot, however, be offered by the school (coach) for only the basketball team out-of-season.
8-21-09
Q.: A college coach called me and wanted to know if high schools in Wisconsin will be able to participate as a team in fall basketball leagues this year of 2009-10.
A.: Schools may only assemble as a school team during the WIAA designated sport season. Schools may conduct sport competition and practice only during the defined respective sport season as specified in Season Regulations and during Board of Control approved unrestricted contact days in the summer (up to five days in all WIAA sports), between the end of school and July 31. This means schools and school organizations, such as the letter winners club, the senior class, etc., cannot be involved in running any competition or practice in WIAA recognized sports outside the defined school season for that sport and those five days in the summer identified as unrestricted contact days. WIAA Bylaws prohibit member schools from competing against school teams that are post secondary schools and/or academies and schools that are not members of their respective state associations. Please reference the Rules At A Glance and the Bylaws on p. 26-27 of the Senior High Handbook regarding competition and practice restrictions.
Q.: My daughter participates on the varsity team of her H.S. basketball program. This week a parent from a 6th grade girls basketball team asked her if she was interested in working on ball handling skills with their daugh- ter. Is this illegal? Will this get our daughter in trouble with the WIAA? We are waiting for your answer before we decide. This would be strictly voluntary only, but we would like clarification if this is against WIAA rules. Practice would be approx. two times a week for an hour to an hour and a half.
A.: Your daughter can work with the sixth grader on her basketball skills. As long as she is doing this on her own, she can do so when ever. If the skills are being taught under the guidance of her high school coach and she is a clinician, then WIAA rules take effect with some limitations.
Q.: Our volleyball team and coach want to know if it is okay for them to ride on a float in a parade together dur- ing the local community's festival. They want to make sure that they are not violating any rules. It would take place the day before the season began. There would be no coaching done or practice. It would be just riding the float in the parade.
A.: You may have your team and coaches together (organizational meeting) provided there is no practice, competition, instruction, drilling, etc., going on.
4-10-09
Q.: I have a question for you about an all-star game for conference basketball players (all seniors of course). The date is scheduled for April 19 - so it is for sure "out-of-season." My question is this: We have five teams that we pick players from for each team (five team north; five team south). We would like the coach from the best team (according to the season ending standings) from the north and the coach from the best team from the south coach these seniors boys for the all-star game. Is there any problem with this? They are all seniors - out-of-season, is there anything wrong with this? Or should the coaches switch teams so they don't coach any of their players?
A.: Bylaws, Article IV (All Star Prohibition) states, "A school, including its administrators (district admin- istrator and principal), athletic director, and coaches, shall not become involved directly or indirectly with the coaching, management, direction, and/or promotion of any kind of all-star game or similar contest involving students with remaining WIAA high school eligibility in any sport, if such all-star games or similar contests are held during the established school year." I don't believe that either of the scenarios you might have hoped for may be do-able. Sorry. Some of these sorts of events are bringing back some retired/area "coaching legends" to serve in these events.
3-27-09
Q.: Can you please give me your interpretation of this proposal? A teacher in charge of our student government would like to have a combination of our girls' and boys' basketball team members play a game vs. the faculty? He would arrange it so that we have a mix of our girls' team members on the floor with boys' team members. He'd like to have this game on March 27. Do you see any potential for violations? Is there something we can do to change it to ensure that we are in compliance?
A.: To Begin: See HB, Bylaws, Art. II, Section 1 and 2. There are a couple ways you can get this done within the mem- ber's rules. 1) If you hold it on the date first identified, then you could run it but participation must be limited to sen- iors only. They will have used up their school sport eligibility and would not "burn" one of their four allowed school sponsored sport seasons. If held on March 27, do not allow underclassmen, students with past status in the program and remaining eligibility to participate. It would in effect - be another season of school sponsored basketball. 2) If you ran the event by or before March 14 then any boy/girl regardless of grade could participate. Schools are able to conduct intramural basketball during the designated school sport season - and at that date both the boys and girls seasons are still in progress. 3) If run on the 27th, but sponsored by a non-school entity, then it could include all students. Then you must keep in mind that "an acceptable non-school program is one not limited/restricted to students based on school and/or team status (ROE Art.VI, Sect. 2C-1).
Q.: There is another all-star basketball game starting in Duluth that wants our players to play. I know my senior basketball play- ers can play in it and still be eligible for spring sports. Here are three questions I have: 1) Can they only play in one all-star game per sport? Now we will have two in Duluth. 2) Can these players keep jersey they get for game for free? 3) I believe myself or my coaches cannot have any involvement in these all-star games. Is that correct? They want my coaches to coach the Wisconsin team. They are setting it up as a border battle, MN vs. WI.
A.: 1) No. There is not a number limiting post-season events of this kind – for seniors who have exhausted their basket- ball eligibility. 2) No – not if they are intending to do a spring sport – would be amateur status violation. If not doing a spring sport – ok. Could also purchase the jersey if they wanted it. 3) You are correct. See Handbook, Bylaws, p. 28; Art. IV.
Q.: What are the restrictions for coaches having out-of-season meetings with just parents? How about with just students? How about students and parents together? A.: The rules governing out-of-season organizational meetings has relaxed considerably. Used to be just one preseason meeting was allowed. Now, if you review any of the sport season regulations, you will see in the first article, #1 - coach- es can have as many organizational meetings as school administration wishes to approve. Coaches could meet with ath- letes, parents, alone/together - as you wish to allow. Obviously, organizational/informational meetings are about summer opportunities, team rules, fundraisers, open gyms and the like. They are not about film study and fundamental skill instruction and/or offensive and defensive package insertion.
Q.: My son is a freshman at a member high school. He would like to get a tournament team together for a couple of basketball tournaments in March and April after the season is over. My question is, how many players does WIAA allow on a tournament team from one school district? I would like to have four boys from our school and four boys from the neighboring district. Would we be able to have that many?
A.: The members present text for teams assembling during the school year, but outside of the season provides that no assembly may resemble in any way, a schools team practicing or competing outside of the season. Our recommendation to members has been to see that the non-school teams should be as diverse as possible - to avoid allegations of non-com- pliance. The configuration you have described would be seen as acceptable provided the eight boys actually attend both different high schools.
Q.: Does a high school student invalidate themselves for swimming, cross country or track if they compete in a triathlon dur- ing the summer? I was told that since girls swimming is in the fall, there is a rule about them competing in a swimming event within 90 days of the swimming season (not being allowed). I would like to be able to advise these kids properly so they do not loose there eligibility, but if this is the case, maybe this should be looked at as a possible exemption since the sports are quite different, and I would think you would want to encourage their participation.
A.: There is no 90-day rule. In the summertime, there would be no WIAA rules preventing a student from participating in a triathlon. In the time between a school's spring sports season is over (for track athletes) and before the fall sport seasons begin (swim, cross country), WIAA rules would not prohibit participation in these non-school events.
Q.: We are looking at running a pitching clinic for local kids (I'm the HS coach). We'd like to invite kids currently in grades five thru eight. It would be organized by the HS baseball staff. What parameters do we have regarding running this on a weekend or two in February or March? Can we include our JV/varsity kids as staff?
A.: Essentially what the rules provide is that a "school" may not sponsor camps/clinics except in the summer time. During the school year ideas like yours must be sponsored by the boosters, or police or Recreation Dept., e.g. (non-school entities). Kids can assist the sponsors. Coaches can assist the sponsors - but if the clinic is outside of the actual school season - coaches and players may not assist at the same times. (Thus, some folks wait to run this sort of camp until the early days of the actual season - when you can have contact with players in an instructional setting.) Bottom line: You can get this done - but maybe not in the straight line manner your initial thoughts may have been formed in.
2-13-09
Q.: Baseball parent is looking to organize a once a week training session for baseball players at our school. He has an organization who would be renting gym space here and then would be the group responsible for con- ducting baseball training sessions. Our head coach is not helping with this organization.
A.: Certainly non-school groups/organizations might secure use of school facilities in accordance with dis- trict policies. See II-C of the Rules At A Glance. Related: II-A. Keep in mind that an acceptable non school program may not be limited to students based on school and or team status. Best practice would be to see
that this didn't end up just students from your school – practicing out-of-season.
1-16-09
12-12-08
Q.: At our conference AD's meeting on Wednesday we had a lengthy discussion about the "out-of-season" hand- book language, specifically "that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season." What we couldn't get our arms around was the defi- nition of a "school team." Would a school be in compliance of this rule under each of the following situations: 1) a team has at least one member on it from a different high school, 2) a team has at least one member on it that is an incoming freshmen and this individual has not been out for the school sponsored sport yet (example - a freshmen plays on a fall league softball team and wasn't on the high school team the previous school year)?
A.: No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The way the questions you advanced are framed – I am inclined to say that neither conform with the spirit and intent of the rule as we have heard the members discussion in this office. The question to ask yourself is – does this feel like compliance or circumvention? You can recognize that having my nine returning players from the same school and adding one guy, somebody's cousin from another school – does not address the desires or discussions we have heard from our members. I would advise organizers, especially in pre-season leagues to see that teams are as diverse as as they can possibly be. The best practice advice we've provided in the past stands; i.e. Non-school teams should be as diverse as you can possibly make them. You are aware of the "hard numbers" the Board has already advanced one time. They were quite narrow. By the same token, the attitude of the "token wrestler" seems to no longer be acceptable. I can tell you there has also been discussion of not more then 50 percent of the ros- ter and 50 percent of participants on the floor/field at anytime should be from same school. So that may be a guide. If the members wish to allow year around assembly of their school teams then they should be prepared to voice those sentiments in the Area Meetings. It has not been what we have heard. While the "hard numbers" limits given earlier this spring for defining non-school teams have been placed in mora- torium and are not in effect in this school year. Thus the status quo prevails; i.e. The former rule: "an acceptable non-school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" – and – non-school activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season." Given the current text then, our members must still acknowledge that the status quo does not diminish the very real threats to them, their teams and tournament opportu- nities. But, they have been advised. Best friendly advice, best practice we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/non-school team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions cre- ated by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
Q.: I received a request from a player on the baseball team to borrow the catcher's equipment to use while attend- ing a catching clinic at Ripon College over the holidays. Does the WIAA have a rule covering this?
A.: During the school year protective equipment may not be issued except during the actual school season itself.
Q.: At our conference AD's meeting on Wednesday we had a lengthy discussion about the "out-of-season" Handbook language, specifically "that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season." What we couldn't get our arms around was the definition of a "school team." Would a school be in compliance of this rule under each of the following situa- tions: 1) a team has at least one member on it from a different high school, 2) a team has at least one member on it that is an incoming freshmen and this individual has not been out for the school sponsored sport yet (exam- ple - a freshmen plays on a fall league softball team and wasn't on the high school team the previous school year)?
A.: No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The way the questions you advanced are framed – I am inclined to say that neither conform with the spirit and intent of the rule as we have heard the members discussion in this office. The question to ask yourself is – does this feel like compliance or circumvention? You can recognize that having my nine returning players from the same school and adding one guy, somebody's cousin from another school – does not address the desires or discussions we have heard from our members. I would advise organizers, especially in pre-season leagues to see that teams are as diverse as as they can possibly be. The best practice advice we've provided in the past – stands; i.e. Non-school teams should be as diverse as you can possibly make them. You are aware of the "hard numbers" the board has already advanced one time.. They were quite narrow. By the same token, the attitude of the "token wrestler" seems to no longer be acceptable. I can tell you there has also been discussion of not more then 50 percent of the ros- ter and 50 percent of participants on the floor/field at anytime should be from same school. So that may be a guide. If the members wish to allow year around assembly of their school teams then they should be prepared to voice those sentiments in the area meetings. It has not been what we have heard. While the "hard numbers" limits given earlier this spring for defining non school teams have been placed in mora- torium and are not in effect in this school year. Thus the status quo prevails; i.e. The former rule: "an acceptable non school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – nonschool activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season." Given the current text then, our members must still acknowledge that the status quo does not diminish the very real threats to them, their teams and tournament opportu- nities. But, they have been advised. Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/nonschool team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions cre- ated by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
10-24-08
Q.: We have a female soccer player (spring sport) that is being recruited to play collegiate soccer. The coach of the collegiate team would like to bring our player in to scrimmage against some of the players currently on the college team (this fall). Is this permissible for our high school player? Can our girl's soccer coach also take part in the scrimmage?
A.: As described, this would not violate WIAA rules. Must caution you, to have the family get it in writ- ing from college AD that doing so would not compromise the student's NCAA eligibility. My understand- ing is that only those schools who are allowed to give "partial" scholarships are able to work out a high school athlete while on their official visit. DI and DIII programs are not able to work out a recruit.
Q.: At our conference AD's meeting on Wednesday we had a lengthy discussion about the "out-of- season" Handbook language, specifically "that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out-of-season." What we couldn't get our arms around was the definition of a "school team." Would a school be in compliance of this rule under each of the following situations: 1) a team has at least one member on it from a different high school, 2) a team has at least one member on it that is an incoming freshmen and this individual has not been out for the school sponsored sport yet (exam- ple - a freshmen plays on a fall league softball team and wasn't on the high school team the previous school year)?
A.: No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The way the questions you advanced are framed – I am inclined to say that neither conform with the spirit and intent of the rule as we have heard the members discussion in this office. The question to ask yourself is – does this feel like compliance or circumvention? You can recognize that having my nine returning players from the same school and adding one guy, somebody's cousin from another school – does not address the desires or discussions we have heard from our members. I would advise organizers, especially in pre-season leagues to see that teams are as diverse as as they can possibly be. The best practice advice we've provided in the past – stands; i.e. Nonschool teams should be as diverse as you can possibly make them. You are aware of the "hard numbers" the Board has already advanced one time. They were quite narrow. By the same token, the attitude of the "token wrestler" seems to no longer be acceptable. I can tell you there has also been discussion of not more then 50 percent of the ros- ter and 50 percent of participants on the floor/field at anytime should be from same school. So that may be a guide. If the members wish to allow year around assembly of their school teams then they should be prepared to voice those sentiments in the Area Meetings. It has not been what we have heard. While the 'hard numbers' limits given earlier this spring for defining nonschool teams have been placed in morato- rium and are not in effect in this school year. Thus the status quo prevails; i.e. The former rule: "an accept- able nonschool program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – nonschool activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team prac- ticing or competing out-of-season." Given the current text then, our members must still acknowledge that the status quo does not diminish the very real threats to them, their teams and tournament opportunities if their teams are assembling to practice or play during the school year but outside the season. Best friend- ly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be cer- tain the club/nonschool team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions created by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
Q.: We are in the process of purchasing new baseball uniforms. Do we need to spend money on new uniforms for the coaches, or is there such a thing as a "waiver" to be able to wear an "old" uniform of the same color.
A.: The National Federation baseball rules require coaches to be in team apparel if they wish to be able to coach from the base paths. There is some precedence for providing emergency and short term relief, emer- gency waivers, when a school's administration has made us aware of unusual circumstances, e.g. high numbers in turn outs, unusual number of "big kids" and a shortage of large uniforms, or some such thing. If when a school is purchasing new baseball team apparel they should plan to equip their entire team and program in accordance with the rules.
Q.: Can our girls basketball players "coach" at our youth clinic out-of-season? This rule "changed" or was "tweaked" last year, but I can't remember if they changed it back again. For whatever reason I think they did? We start our clinics Saturday and I want to make sure before asking the non-fall sport athletes to help?
A.: Caution. You can achieve desired outcomes within the rules, but be sure your coaches understand the rules. First, schools may not sponsor camps/clinics except in the summer. Nonschool groups may rent/reserve school facilities in accordance with school board policies. I presume this is an opportunity being run by the "back court club" or the youth basketball group in town. If they wish to solicit help from students and/or employ them, they could do so. If this event takes place outside of the high school season, your players and coaches may not be present at the same time. School coaches may use their players as clinicians - only in the summer, prior to July 31. See Rules At A Glance, IIA and C.
Q.: I would like to know whether it is ok to have the players who would probably be on our high school varsi- ty team play 7-8 games together this fall against teams from other schools before the basketball season starts.
A.: Simple answer is, no. During the school year, the assembly of students in a manner that resembles the school's team practicing/competing outside the season is prohibited.
9-19-08
Q.: I am working on a potential project for the future and before it gets off the ground I would like to know if, through the WIAA, it is possible. For the 2009-10 basketball season our district is going to institute a three person crew for all boy's and girl's basketball games. As a result, there is a great deal of desire to ensure that all con- tracted officials in the area are certified and trained to work in such a capacity. The recreation department is inter- ested in hosting an officials clinic that has two main parts. One part is classroom instruction for officials. Second, is the practical experience with on the court with live play. It is our desire to offer this officials training in June of 2009. It is also our desire to bring in local high school basketball teams to participate with the on-court expe- rience for the officials. We would need to charge those teams a nominal fee to cover our gym rental fees as well as class room rentals. Would we be in compliance managing such an event?
A.: This could be accomplished in compliance with association provisions. The cleanest/easiest way for "school teams" to assemble in June is if those participating schools use a day of their unrestricted summer contact. However, outside of the unrestricted days the rules also provide that kids can voluntarily assem- ble in the summer – in any configuration they wish – without school and coach involvement.
Q.: At our conference AD's meeting on Wednesday, we had a lengthy discussion about the "out-of-season" Handbook language, specifically "that while athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged during the school year should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out of season." What we couldn't get our arms around was the definition of a "school team." Would a school be in compliance of this rule under each of the following situa- tions: 1) a team has at least one member on it from a different high school, 2) a team has at least one member on it that is an incoming freshmen and this individual has not been out for the school sponsored sport yet (exam- ple - a freshmen plays on a fall league softball team and wasn't on the high school team the previous school year)?
A.: No pre-season team should be made up exclusively of students from same school. Merely grade level diversification is not acceptable. The way the questions you advanced are framed – I am inclined to say that neither conform with the spirit and intent of the rule as we have heard the members discussion in this office. The question to ask yourself is – does this feel like compliance or circumvention? You can recognize that having my 9 returning players from the same school and adding one guy, somebody's cousin from another school – does not address the desires or discussions we have heard from our members. I would advise organizers, especially in pre-season leagues to see that teams are as diverse as as they can possibly be. The best practice advice we've provided in the past – stands; i.e. Non-school teams should be as diverse as you can possibly make them. You are aware of the "hard numbers" the board has already advanced one time. They were quite narrow. By the same token, the attitude of the "token wrestler" seems to no longer be acceptable. I can tell you there has also been discussion of not more then 50 percent of the ros- ter and 50 percent of participants on the floor/field at anytime should be from same school. So that may be a guide. If the members wish to allow year around assembly of their school teams, then they should be prepared to voice those sentiments in the Area Meetings. It has not been what we have heard. While the "hard numbers" limits given earlier this spring for defining nonschool teams have been placed in mora- torium and are not in effect in this school year. Thus the status quo prevails; i.e. The former rule: "an acceptable nonschool program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – nonschool activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team
practicing or competing out-of-season." Given the current text then, our members must still acknowledge that the status quo does not diminish the very real threats to them, their teams and tournament opportu- nities. But, they have been advised. Best friendly advice, best practice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club/nonschool team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the season. The distractions cre- ated by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to strive to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
Q.: I recently contacted the WIAA about a proposed 2008 tri-state (MN-WI-IA) all star volleyball game for high school senior girls after their season is over. Would a senior girl be allowed to play in this event on Nov. 22-23, 2008 and still be eligible for her winter and spring sports. I'm also considering a 2009 tri-state (MN-WI-IA) all- star boys and girls basketball game tentatively scheduled for April 4-5, 2009. Are Wisconsin senior boys and girls eligible to play in this event and not lose eligibility for their spring sport?
A.: Yes to both questions.
8-15-08
Q.: It has come to my attention that the varsity football coach at an area high school has handed out equipment in the second week of July. Per your Website, this is non-compliant. I might be wrong but kids should not get "left overs" when they try out on time for football season. Could you please confirm?
A.: If your school board has given approval - schools may issue uniforms and protective equipment in the summertime. Many member schools are taking advantage of this rule to provide economical/affordable skill camp opportunities to local kids. Pads issued during the summer unrestricted contact days must be collected and returned to storage, since they can not be issued for the actual school season until Monday, Aug. 11 (2008).
Q.: I've noticed a number of people organizing pre-season basketball tournaments again. Can you again clarify the rules pertaining to out-of-season competition? What as an organizer people should be aware of?
A.: Page 4 of the Athlete Eligibility Information Bulletin outlines our members rules for club and/or other non-school teams during the school year. To protect the eligibility of students and interests of our mem- ber schools we would encourage you to see that teams are made up of students from more then just one school and work with area athletic directors at member schools.
Q.: I'm inquiring about members of a co-op WIAA girls hockey team, playing fall hockey (pre-season) with a league in Minnesota during the months of August-September. I understand there is a WIAA rule of not more than three or more players playing organized games. I was also told that it is not being enforced at this time. Could you please advise me of whether or not this is allowed or not?
A.: The "hard numbers" limits given earlier this spring for defining non-school teams have been placed in moratorium. They will not be in effect in the next school year. Status quo prevails; i.e. The former rule: "an acceptable non-school program is one which is not limited to students based on school and/or team status" - and – non-school activities in which students are engaged "may not resemble in any way a schools team practicing or competing out-of-season." In saying the most recent interpretation will not take effect, our members must still acknowledge that the status quo does not diminish the very real threats to them, their teams and tournament opportunities. But, they have been advised. Best friendly advice, best prac- tice - we can offer to make sure the school's team is not placed in peril – is to be certain the club team is diverse and is not able to be identified as just the school's team assembling and competing outside the sea- son. The distractions created by the allegations of violation we receive at tournament time would seem to me to be reason enough to make the school's team as bullet proof as possible.
Q.: Our girls play in a summer league for basketball. Our district has rental agreements in place for facilities and they want to use the gym free of charge. I am thinking that they have to pay the rental fee like anyone else. Our coach claims that we are the only school that charges for the rent to our own girls. What is the ruling? Can we let them use the gym for free. Our coaches are not involved with this. It is run by parents. I was thinking that the only way we could not charge rent is if the coach used her contact days for this league. I may be wrong but then, other schools are not charging rent.
A.: As a non-school assembly - the parent and group of girls must secure use of your facility the same as any other private citizen - consistent with your board's usage policies. It may be possible that other dis- tricts have other policies which regulate facilities usage - by local groups, student groups, for profit groups and so on. Thus, the rental by/for local folks working with kids might see nominal or free use, as opposed to a group that wants to use your facility for a for-profit craft sale, or the Parks and Rec Department's programs, e.g. It is not uncommon for board policy with respect to facilities usage to have two or three dif- ferent rental schedules. See Bylaws II, Sect. 3 and 4, p. 26 (important). Also IIC-3 of Rules At A Glance is relevant, even though you're not talking about a camp or clinic in this case. If your community is not sat- isfied with current policies regarding usage, your board has authority to change its policies.
7-18-08
Q.: We have a group of kids from our school in a summer basketball league. I made sure it was advertised and available to ALL boys. The question is - can they use a school van for transport to the league games? There are a few kids who aren't able to drive yet. The person "coaching them" is a former coach who is no longer a part of the program/on the coaching staff. Also with gas at $4 per gallon it is more economical to take five or six kids in one vehicle. I know the restrictions on our coaches would prohibit because they are using their contact days in a different way. How is it with someone who is not part of the program?
A.: No. "Schools" may not be involved in students non-school pursuits. Bylaws allow schools to transport during the actual season and during unrestricted contact days. See HB, p. 26 Art. II, Sect. 2 and 3.
Q.: I was told by another coach that his AD indicated that it is illegal for teams to be involved in seven-on-seven tournaments or leagues. Is this true? Many universities and high schools run seven on seven passing tournaments or leagues during the summer months. We have previously participated in some of them and do not want to be involved in any illegal action.
A.: The simple answer would be "no." At least in the summertime, passing leagues generally are not seen as a problem, unless they are funded improperly, participation is mandatory... or coaches are improperly involved. While there are some ways in which problems could arise – ordinarily very few actually arise and kids can most often take part in passing leagues without peril.
Q.: Our basketball program would like to host a four-to-six team boys basketball tournament at our high school this summer for high school-aged boys. Teams would not be coached by their high school coaches, and kids from other schools could play on teams other than their own home cities if they choose to. My question is: Our coach would like to also invite an AAU sponsored team to participate in the tournament as well. I don't believe that this would be any type of infraction, but thought I would check with you first to verify.
A.: This could be accomplished within the rules - in a couple of ways. However, it is important to clearly recognize the differences inherent to both. First, (perhaps) best and easiest way would be to count the event as your contact days - that way the school could be involved, use of facilities, liability etc., stream- lined. Or - if non-contact days - then the event must be sponsored/provided by a non-school entity - who would be 100 percent responsible for securing use of facility, liability, organization, promotion, etc. An AAU team entering the tournament is a non-issue.
5-22-08
Q.: Have you come up with the "Rules of Eligibility" that we should give our parents that they will "sign-off" on for next year? We are preparing our materials for the fall and they are on hold until I get that information. My other question is will the rules of eligibility include information on roster limits for club teams during the school year? This limit is not in affect during the summertime – correct? Does this rule only cover school teams – for example – fall ball, spring leagues. How are we suppose to track what club teams our students are on? For exam- ple – there are a bunch of different club volleyball programs in the Milwaukee area – how am I suppose to make sure that there are not more than three of our athletes on one team? We have nothing to do with these teams ,and I am not sure I can dictate who can make what team.
A.: We have just recently put finishing touches on a sign-off form and have emailed the document to all schools, as well as placed it on our website. School year club team roster limits are included in this docu- ment. We are also adding the nonschool competition roster limits to our handbook for next year, which addresses nonschool participation during the school year. a. During the unrestricted summer contact days, coaching contact is permitted and assembly may resemble the school team. b. Outside of the five unre- stricted days, students can voluntarily assemble without school and coach involvement. During the school year, no assembly can resemble the schools team practicing and/or competing outside the season...the numbers came as a response to requests for something more clear than the "token wrestler." School administration is responsible to educate coaches athletes, parents and others. We advise you to begin with your coaches and proceed to athletes and parents at every/through every available channel.
Q.: I have a quick question for you pertaining to football. With our five contact days during the summer, if I opt to have our kids wear football helmets (for protection), and they currently are all certified and reconditioned by the way, when the kids hand them back in, do I have to get them certified again? What are my options? What does WIAA recommend?
A.: You essentially have two choices on how to handle this: Get helmets reconditioned again following their issue and use (you might choose to have the users pay for the second). When the helmets comeback, put a wire/twist name tag (or tape) on the face mask with the player's name and see the same student is re-issued the same helmet in the fall that he used in the summer. That keeps it within the locus of control of the stu- dent. Of course, always good/wise to ask the student when he returns the helmet if he experienced any problems and to perform thorough inspection of the helmet and a full re-fit – even though its the same stu- dent and same helmet, in the fall.
Q.: I have a couple of questions regarding football: 1. They now get five days and can be non-consecutive dur- ing the summer (done by 7/31) correct? 2. My coaches have heard rumblings of team camps where teams go and scrimmage at a university with full gear. I told them I find this hard to believe, but I just want some clarification. If there are indeed "team camps" out there can a team go to it, fully suit up, and actually scrimmage live? I know there are position camps where kids get equipment from their schools and go to the camp, but team camps and scrimmaging I found hard to believe.
A.: You are correct on the change in summer contact days in football. With respect to team camps, poten- tially – yes. Your school board has to authorize issue of pads. Opportunity must be part of unrestricted contact days. Lastly, keep in mind just because you "can do" does not mean you should. At least not with- out what you must decide to be proper acclimation.
5-1-08
Q.: We have had our school trainer that is contracted throughout the school year provide summer agility and con- ditioning classes for our student-athletes. He does this through a healthcare facility and is a certified strength and conditioning coach. My question is this; the cost is becoming very expensive for the student-athletes that want to participate in this summer program and it has in fact deterred some from taking it (the cost). If this is open to all students enrolled at the high school, is it possible to have a club or the school pay for a portion of this cost to lower the overall cost that the student-athlete would have to pay? There would still be a fee for the participants, but it would not be as much as it would be if they had to pay all of it themselves.
A.: If a group or benefactor wished to underwrite a camp and provide it free or reduced – to everyone interested, they could do that. Key is in uniformity – if it's going to be 25 bucks for the third teamer, it's got to be 25 bucks for the all-state player. And that each player or their family cover 100 percent of the costs associated in order to attend the camp.
Q.: My volleyball coach has asked me a few questions about summer league play and starting a non-school club. I want to check with you to make sure my understanding is correct. First, is there any way a school can sponsor a summer league or tournament for high school aged students? My understanding is that something like this has to be sponsored by a non-school group and they in turn can reserve district facilities. I'm not 100 percent sure if the recent summer contact days would allow anything like this. Also, am I correct to assume if a non-school group wanted to have funds held in a "school account" would this group then be considered a "school sponsored group"?
A.: Yes to your first question. A school can do what ever it wishes (almost) on the five unrestricted days in the summer – sponsor five tournaments, e.g., or five days/nights of league play, five days of camps and competition . . . Outside of those unrestricted days, NO. See Bylaws II, Art. II., p. 26. Regarding your sec- ond question, no, but the funds are "school money" and subsequently may not be used to fund non-school opportunities. This ties into who may be allowed to pay for "what" – and when.
3-28-08
Q.: For the summer contact days in football, are coaches allowed to issue and practice in pads, helmet, etc?
A.: Yes – so long as it has been approved/authorized by school board (Handbook, p. 28 Art. III). If you have not done this before, I recommend thoughtful discussion on the collection of equipment if issued: How to address re-issue. To recondition or not to recondition. Proper fitting. Acclimation.
Q.: The basketball coaches in our conference are proposing a senior-based all-star game between divisions that they would like to play within two weeks after the basketball season. Is there any eligibility concerns for spring sports participation if these boys and girls play in this basketball game if this game is played at the desired time- line or do they need to wait until after the completion of the school year before they play this game?
A.: The Rules of Eligibility (Senior High Handbook) Art. VI, Sect. 3B-4, p. 38-39, allow seniors to partic- ipate in post-season, all-star events without jeopardizing the next seasons' eligibility. Caution: Advise coaches, AD's to read carefully Bylaws Art. IV Sr. High Handbook, p. 28. These events can be organized by clubs and others, but member schools, their staff and employees should have awareness of this Bylaw..which limits involvement of AD's and coaches.
Q.: I have a former volleyball player that is a junior in college and would like to hold a volleyball clinic at our high school on Sundays after spring break. She would like to open it to all interested middle and high school stu- dents. None of our high school coaches would be involved with the clinic. Looking at the Handbook, I do not see where this would be illegal to do, but I wanted to check with you first. She has filled out the necessary paper- work with the school, but I have put this on hold until I hear from you.
A.: Good call. Non-school persons and/or groups can use our member's facilities for private purposes. See II-A, II-C,3 of the Rules At A Glance. Also, text in Sr. High Handbook pgs. 37-38, Art. VI, Sect. 2A, 2C and 1. As a private business venture – this woman is a non school provider – just like a YMCA, e.g. Must advise the advertising for this opportunity can not be limited to just students in your school (best prac- tice).
Q.: I want to be sure I interpret Article VI, Section C-5 correctly. Does the note at the end provide for the school to cover the cost (or at least part of the cost) of a team camp, provided it is during the five contact days allowed during the summer? Does it have to be the school, or can it be an organization or individual covering the cost?
A.: To begin, – see the text of II-F in the Rules At A Glance. It is also important to note that 'a school' can provide camp/training/clinic opportunities – for all interested students during the actual school season AND during the unrestricted contact days in the summer. What the boosters or others could do is to 'GIFT' the school (if your school board allows earmarked gifts of this kind) the school could then cover costs for any/all students interested in attending a team camp. The school would typically make an announcement to notify all interested 'girls' who might want to have access to a camp opportunity. All other camp/clinic/specialized training and instruction students wish to pursue must be covered 100 per- cent by student and family.
Q.: I am running a small indoor soccer clinic for kids the next two weekends and was planning on having some of my high school kids help. My AD questioned whether or not it was "legal" as far as WIAA contact standards and I admit, I didn't consider it. While the high school kids will technically be working with me, it's more that we'll be in the same gym while they are playing with the kids. Is this a problem according to the WIAA for the girls who will be beginning the H.S. season within the next few weeks? I certainly hope not as this is a win-win fun way to get younger kids involved in soccer.
A.: You have a wise AD and I'm glad you're working with her. There are several potential concerns held within your simple idea. There are several ways you could achieve your hoped for outcomes - within the rules the member schools have established. There are several ways you can step on a land mine and blow up.
First, schools may not sponsor camps or clinics during the school year. Non-school groups are able to use school facilities in accordance with school policy. So a non-school sponsor needs to be identified. You may use HS students as clinicians, in the summertime. During the school year you are not allowed coaching con- tact except during the actual school season.
Q.: Two former high school coaches and one assistant coach at a suburban school were going to work with our kids on fundamentals of the Wing-T over a couple of Saturdays between basketball and track. Of course, no pres- ent coaches (or former coaches) would be involved. This would be completely voluntary for the kids and open to all interested students. My question is, would it be legal to let the coaches use the high school gym or would they have to find a neutral site.
A.: An acceptable non-school opportunity may not be limited/restricted based on school or team status (Sr. High Handbook, p. 38, Art. VI, Sect. 2C-1). The sponsor of this Wing-T camp will need to advertise more widely then just your school. School facilities can be rented/reserved by non-school providers in accor- dance with school district policy. (See IIA and C of attached) It is not uncommon for districts to require hold harmless agreements and proof of liability protection when activities of this nature are held. If you were to organize this opportunity - in the summer - and used it as part of your five unrestricted contact days, then the school could be involved and the camp could be limited if you wished, to just your students.
2-8-08
Q.: We have a baseball player that has been invited to work out at MATC before the baseball season starts. Is this a rule violation?
A.: A student practicing at MATC in the manner described would not violate WIAA provisions, unless the opportunity is one provided as perk/benefit because of athletic ability, potential, performance...(amateur status). So long as "my son" and any other interested student can go work out at MATC too, then there is no peril of any kind.
1-18-08
Q.: Can a person (coach or volunteer) have a meeting with a track team (participants) out-of-season to let them know of some indoor meets that they could participate in?
A.: I would not be so casual in allowing 'just anyone' to assemble the school's team - typically that's a head coaches duty. But bottom line is that if you refer to p.47 Spring Season Regs. Or first page of any winter sport regs...item # 1 addresses pre-season organizational meetings - Answer is "YES." And school admin- istration can approve as many as you wish - or think needed and reasonable. Must advise you review and be 'crystal' with coach about instruction.
Q.: I have a question about eligibility of WIAA volleyball team players playing in a school sponsored intramu- ral VB tournament. My daughter wants to play in this tournament and was told that since she is a member of the VB team for the school she could not as it was a violation of WIAA rules. I don't want this to jeopardize her status so I'm asking.
A.: It would appear you have been correctly informed. WIAA Bylaws prohibit members from sponsoring sport training and/or competition outside the actual/approved school season. Thus, if volleyball conclud- ed this past Nov. and a member is now running/sponsoring VB competition out side the season - it should not include students who have a past status and remaining eligibility in the sport (or it would be construed and counted as one of a students maximum of 4 seasons of school sponsored volleyball competition). There are times and occasion when a member may have some specific and more/less legitimate purpose to have out-of-season, school sponsored sport event of this kind. If/when such takes place as "self contained with- in the school" - there is not typically WIAA sanction involved. BUT...It may not turn into/result in one member sponsoring year-round basketball/volleyball/ soccer, etc.
12-21-07
Q.: My son is a junior in HS and has been invited to participate in the US Army National Combine Jan. 3-6, 2008. There is a registration fee that covers cleats, apparel, lunch, bus transportation and a ticket to the US Army All-American Bowl. Would his participation affect his eligibility for participation in his HS sports?
A.: Combines have generally presented no problems - from either amateur status perspective, all-star competition, or from non-school competition perspective. On the surface I am not able to see an obvious WIAA eligibility concern - but I have not seen/reviewed any text/literature on this opportunity.
Q.: A local sports club offers the following leagues: 7v7 18 and under indoor passing league; 8v8 18U, 16U and 14U indoor softball leagues; 6v6 18U, 16U and 14U indoor baseball leagues; 9v9 U18, U16 and U14 indoor soc- cer. All of these have very different rules than the WIAA version of football, softball, baseball and soccer that are played at the high school level not to mention are all played indoors. Would you interpret that these four sports are different enough from the ones played at the high school level, therefore, would not be looked at by WIAA as a violation to the rules of teams gathering during the school year to play in these indoor activities?
A.: I would respond by requesting assistance from the club/business to be certain any student groups from my high school were not placed on a singular team. Would try to educate the local business of the Association's rules as well as the real risks and ask they help me look out for the school and kids interests by protecting them. It's not that hard to do if I really want to. When an AD comes asking for - "best prac- tice / best advice" - our response must always be shaped and influenced by what we experience when com- plaints/assertions come in here at tournament time. That advice will always be to make the schools programs and interests bulletproof. At this time and unless/until the members would vote to change the cur- rent rules we would suggest you advise students, coaches, parents that club teams contain kids from out- side your/one single school and at least – certainly, include kids who are not part of the school's sport pro- gram. Though the text is not framed for application to this specific question – If you look at text of Art. III-D non-school participation – when applied to concerns for in-season violation of school loyalty provi- sions, modified and/or gimmick competition is viewed no differently then traditional competition...in the times and context of this rule's application.
12-06-07
Q.: For a pre-season tournament, is it acceptable to co-op with another school? Some of our girls have friends in neighboring schools and we would like to know if they would be allowed to join us.
A.: We have recommended and endorsed this idea previously. I believe that it is as near, bulletproof as you can get. When kids/friends from more then one school get together, e.g., to make up team #1 made up from students at school A and B - or more, to make team AB1 then play AB2. We support that model and can defend the member's who use it.
9-21-07
Q.: Our boys golf team members are interested in having "Captain's Practices" this fall. I told my coach I am checking with you but that it would most likely be okay as long as: 1. Neither our varsity or JV coach provided any instruction to them - that this is to be a voluntary activity (attendance isn't taken, etc.). 2. The kids cannot receive any perks, such as free play at the course because they are members of the team (students who have their own membership/family membership, etc., at the course would have those rights to use, but others would have to pay greens fees). Please advise.
A.: Current rules and interpretations - would prohibit this. Rules of Eligibility Art. VI, Section 2 - Out-of- Season, p. 38/ C-2. Indicates there are no restrictions against student's voluntarily assembling - in the sum- mer time. This is the specific text that allows for "Captains" practices. From there then, go back and read Section 2, Preamble A ('may not resemble school's team practicing/competing'). Also then read over Bylaw Art. II, Section 1 and 2. This text and interpretation may be coming to the membership in April for some revisions. Bottom line, I must advise great caution and diversity of athletes when assembling during the school year, outside of the season.
Q.: My volleyball coach would like to put together a league team for the park and rec. winter league. The team would consist of himself, a few adults and two or three high school players. The coach says that other coaches from other schools say they have done this. I am not so sure it is legal.
A.: First, I must request that you please identify those schools and coaches – who have done this, to me. Second, if the players have any remaining high school eligibility such coaching contact would be viewed as a violation.
7-13-07
Q.: Our school is offering sport classes as a part of summer school, and the question is could the coaches teach fundamental in these classes?
A.: First – it is important for you to begin by reviewing the Association's Bylaws in the Senior High Handbook; see: p. 26, Article II, Section 1 and 2. These provisions along with the Rules of Eligibility Art.VI, Section 2 is the basis for the following response. A member school can provide summer school sport instruction to students who have just completed 8th grade and/or below. You can do this 'all summer' and your JV and varsity coaches can teach the class. (Rules At A Glance, Art. I and II-A and C). HOWEVER – it has only been in the past 2-3 years that member's are now allowed to provide/sponsor sport instruc- tion opportunities to H.S. students in the summer (for grades 10, 11, 12). There are some key elements you must be aware of in order to be in compliance. In most sports, the maximum number of days you can spon- sor high school level programming is up to max of five days AND those days must fall between the end of school and conclude no later then July 31.
5-25-07
Q.: One of our coaches would like to put a newsletter out to the athletes who participated in the sport this past school year. He wants to split up the team in four groups with a captain leading each group. This is done to pro- mote leadership and some team competition. My concern is if he gives points for certain things throughout the summer. We offer speed and agility twice a week to all athletes on Monday and Wednesday nights. Can they get points for attending? Can they be given points if they help out at a youth camp? In the rules it says "It would be a violation of WIAA rules to mandate attendance at open gyms or provide incentives for athletes to attend open gyms" – would these points be considered incentives? At the start of the season they will total up all points from the summer and establish the winning group. I said I would check with you but I don't think this is going to work. The coach said he read about the practice in a coaching magazine.
A.: I have heard about the point idea...and in some instances the thought was to connect, equipment issue to it – who got new/preferred equipment. I'm with you, I don't like 'points.' If not viewed as incentive – what are they for? The rules of eligibility allow students to VOLUNTARILY assemble in the summer, without school or coach involvement. The Rules At A Glance (Art. I) further indicates, "or having basi- cally anything to do with athletes' non school pursuits..." (with respect to coaching/coaching contact). Points, taking attendance, e.g., are almost always going to cause a problem for the coach if/when a com- plaint is lodged.
3-30-07
Q.: A question for you that I did not know the answer to and could not locate in WIAA literature. Can the foot- ball coach compile a quarterly newsletter for the team? It would contain no instruction, no plays, no audibles, etc. Only schedules, reminders, fund raiser information, important meeting dates, school tips, etc.
A.: On the surface and as described, I see no obvious red flags or peril in this.
Q.: I just heard that there is a rule change allowing coaches to participate with their athletes in out- of-season "open gyms". I understand no "coaching" contact is still the rule but specifically as it relates to tennis, can I play with one of my players out-of- season? This has never come up before, but I would like a clarification before it does.
A.: In order to be thorough and clear, there are several possible responses to the question as posed: In the summer, yes! Tennis coaches are still permitted to have coach contact in the summertime in non-school settings above and beyond the five unrestricted contact days. During the school year – outside the school season – in a local tournament, or other non-school event, e.g., outside of a school sponsored Open Gym environment – NO! In school sponsored Open Gyms, coaches are now able to recreate along with students. Given that determination as made by the Board of Control and only from that perspective, the response to the question could be - 'yes.' The new interpretation does not alter or affect any other interpretation
relating to coaching contact – it only addresses Open Gyms.
Q.: I coach a high school team and was recently asked to coach a local club team. The only player that plays for both teams is my sister. I know that coaching my own children would be safe and was wondering if that carries for family in general or only children.
A.: Thanks for checking. As your note indicates you know - "Parents" are always able to coach their chil- dren. This exception to coaching contact has needed to be very 'literal' and does not/has not extended to siblings, relatives or others.
Q.: I just have a general question. As the head boys' freshmen basketball coach, can I coach the incoming fresh- men boys in summer league? I was told I can do it until July 31. Is this true?
A.: In a word - NO. See article I of the Rules At A Glance and more on our home page under Regulations Icon. See Eligibility Q/A.
Q.: I am a privately paid pitching coach. Girls come to my residence (basement) for pitching help. This year, for the first time, I have several high school pitchers. I am aware of WIAA rules regarding coaches coaching out-of- season not being permitted to coach in season, and vice-versa. Do I fall under that criterion? Must I withdraw my help during season? Coaching pitching is my only income. If I am unable to work with these girls, my income will be seriously affected.
A.: WIAA rules would not prevent students continuing private skill instruction during the school season. Some schools and/or their coaches might not be supportive - but that would be the coach's prerogative. See III-D of Rules At A Glance.
Q.: I am a JV volleyball coach and run a youth camp (incoming grades 4-9) the second week of August for our parks and recreation program. My daughter is going to be a sophomore on the H.S. varsity volleyball team. My question is: Can she still work the camp with me even though contact dates end July 31? What if our freshman coach works the camp?
A.: 1. YES - you are always able to have contact with your own child...and athletes are able to be 'em- ployed'...just not self-employed in sport skill related business. See Art. I of the Rules At A Glance. 2. If frosh coach takes part - they are not able to have contact with incoming-9th graders - except as part of the five unrestricted program contact days your head coach will identify for the volleyball program. Technically, this coach could still work with lower grade students (Art. I). If that's your path, come up with a time schedule or facility arrangement that protects the frosh coach from assertion of out-of-season coaching contact. Having the coach on one side of the net with a 7th grade group - but the 9th grade hope- fuls on the other side of the net - will not render the coach or school - 'bullet proof.'
Q.: Our boys' basketball team would like to do a team camp in North Carolina. Question 1: What are the restric- tions for using school vehicles during summer contact time? In the 06-07 Handbook it states this contact period is "without restriction." I assume we are allowed to use school vans if it is during our five contact days? (If the school allows, of course.) Question 2: Would simply riding home with the players in a van constitute a contact day providing no instruction is going on? I ask this because it's a 4-day camp, and at least three days will be needed for transport there and back and there's only five contact days. Question 3: I assume riding or driving back is OK, otherwise wouldn't it be violating the Handbook to, for example, drive your team back on Sunday morning after the state tournament--season has expired, therefore, we shouldn't be transporting athletes.
A.: 1) Yes. 2) Yes. In the summer unrestricted contact period, travel to/from an event/opportunity must be counted/included within the five days. There are no extra travel days allotted. 3) This is not an accurate interpretation or assumption. The rationale conveyed for looking upon the school season and associating the school year-season and summer contact would be ill advised. There are numbers of elements and inter- pretations which will be the same – however not all. The summer provision is new...it stands alone as an addition the Membership has chosen to allow. The summer contact opportunity has it's own qualities and
characteristics.
2-9-07
Q.: We are getting new uniforms and I'd like to have a patch of our school mascot sewn on the left sleeve. It would look similar to the one in the picture of the defensive player on the WIAA – Baseball page on the web- site. Is this acceptable?
A.: We do not have particular problem with this - in light of the patch being the school mascot/emblem or logo. Our preference is that it will conform with National Federation specifications for other patches, 1-4- 4 (4 sq. in.). If the size presents a problem, let me know.
Q.: Is it OK for me to meet with some of our seniors periodically who will probably be on the team this spring to talk with them about being good role models and develop their leadership abilities? I'd also like to give them some reading material about good leadership skills. Is this acceptable?
A.: Yes. Teachers/coaches have always been allowed to meet with students individually. To provide or make available, leadership materials, to students individually or in large group, pre-season organization- al meetings does not cause alarm.
Q.: Our football coach would like to start their annual "passing league" in May, while school is still in session, instead of in June, once school gets out. Two questions--can a league that is loosely "school sponsored" be during the school year? Second--can football equipment (helmets) be issued for use during the school year, but in the off season?
A.: Schools may not sponsor opportunities of this kind, except during the season and within the approved summer contact 'window'. As this question is framed the response must be - "No." An opportunity - espe- cially when brought here in the form of a concern for violation - will be determined to be either school sponsored – or not. There really is no gray. Something which will be described (by an upset parent, or a rival coach) as "school sponsored" – in my opinion is an ill-advised undertaking. It is also appropriate to keep in mind that the membership's approval for a summer contact opportunity – was virtually a 50/50 opinion all the way through the deliberation phase. Since this past fall we have been hearing expressions of concern for what was specifically approved as a "voluntary opportunity," now becoming a compulsory part of making a team. It remains a topic – not universally embraced. Pushing the envelope, or applying "loose" interpretations might lead to unexpected/undesired backlash. Use of helmets during the school year but outside the school season is not an option.
Q.: Earlier this year we had a phone conversation concerning our desire to offer a speed and agility program for students at our school during the school year. I have a couple of coaches that would like to start this next week. In looking over my notes, I had written down a couple of things that I just wanted to bounce off you before we start this program. I have down don't use sport specific implements. My question is this, would we be OK with using dummies as something students stepped over in agility drills? Also, in my notes it says no stopwatches. This doesn't seem to make sense to me. Can students use watches to keep their times in each drill?
A.: We do not have enormous concerns about students monitoring their own progress in open gyms – including their use of a stop watch. Will continue to say "no" and advise against introduction of imple- ments – like football blocking dummies into a generalized, speed, conditioning, agility environment. There are alternatives available. Review Bylaws – Art. II, Section 2A-1&2. It is the interpretation of this section, combined with existing Open Gym text (Rules At A Glance, II-D) that provide the synthesis for how and why a "general conditioning" opportunity is made available.
Q.: I want to confirm that I'm understanding a Bylaw correctly. Article III covers school equipment and my understanding is that school equipment can only be given to an athlete for training during the summertime. I recently had a student/athlete ask for a bat to use in a training session during February. My interpretation from this would be "no" because it is during school time. Am I correct?
A.: Thanks for reading the Handbook. Bottom line: Bats/balls, kicking T's, shot put, discus and the like, can be issued at school's discretion, anytime. These items are considered "implements." This Bylaw had always prohibited issuing apparel (things which are worn) and protective equipment – except during the season and in the summer (provided your school board approved summer issue).
Q.: Our student council is holding a fund raiser basketball and 3-point tournament here at school for prom - if our varsity players participate in it, does it jeopardize their eligibility? I believe it does.
A.: Yes – Student Council is "school sponsored." if the 'school sponsors basketball' in May...be sure that students with a past status in basketball and remaining eligibility - DO NOT PARTICIPATE. A student can only have 4 seasons of school sponsored basketball competition...you don't want to 'burn one' for a season of this kind.
1-19-07
Q.: I had a question in regards to a winter camp we will be hosting at our high school in January. I was won- dering if I had my players assist in the baseball camp if that would be a WIAA violation. Our players work all of our summer baseball camps and I was hoping to utilize them as instructors for our upcoming winter camp for grades 1-8. Please let me know the ruling on this as soon as possible.
A.: First, you can achieve the 'end result' of this within the rules, but – a school is not able to sponsor camps/clinics, except in the summer. If a non-school entity, i.e., the local YMCA, booster club, optimists, firemen, etc., wished to sponsor this sort of opportunity, they could. You and your coaches could assist them, coach the little ones, help develop the clinic model and so on. Using your players as clinicians – would be possible if this non-school sponsored camp was offered during your school baseball season (obvi- ously, you can have coaching contact during the season) and players can serve as clinicians in the summer time.
12-6-06
Q.: There is a running club at our high school (basically kids who like to run) that gets together during the sum- mer and winter months (when CC and track is not in-season). Can any of our coaches run with them? I am guess- ing this would be considered out-of-season contact – just want to clarify for my coaches.
A.: You are correct. Article I of the Rules At A Glance addresses coaching contact. "Open Gyms" are also clearly described.
10-26-06
Q.: A parent came to me and asked if her son can wrestle and workout with a college student at his school prior to the start of the wrestling season. The school's coach thought this would be in violation of WIAA policy. Is this true? I thought the school may object because of liability, since this is not a school sanctioned program. Can this be under the jurisdiction of the wrestling club?
A.: Best advice: I think this parent ought to speak with their school's AD. They may want to schedule a visit with your school's AD to go over this topic. Their AD should always be their first contact for those questions/concerns regarding school sport participation. In addition to that perspective, there are times that you and I get involved and unwittingly participate in an end run on or serve to undermine the authority of a member school. Or, are quoted out of context and inaccurately. If this person wishes to meet with her school administration they can make a conference call here and that way...all the questions and answers are connected at the same time/place. No one's surprised, no one's confused.
10-6-06
Q.: My girls basketball coach is running a clinic for other coaches and is wondering if it is okay to use some boy basketball players for demonstration purposes. Is this legal?
A.: This could be done within the context of existing coach contact rules. Since the "school may not assem- ble the team outside the season" (Bylaws). The way to do this is to make a general announcement along the lines of "any boys willing to volunteer/assist Coach ABC in a basketball clinic for coaches should stop in coaches office after school today"... OR... "Coach Smith needs some boys to volunteer to help out with demonstrations in a basketball coaches clinic...any boys available to lend a hand see coach." Be certain coach fills out appropriate district facility forms, since this is a private clinic (schools may not sponsor clin- ics except in the summer).
Q.: Our wrestling coach was wondering if it was possible to have a wrestling clinic shortly before the season begins. I thought there might be something illegal about hosting a clinic. The clinician is from an outside source and our coaches would not be doing any of the coaching or clinicing. The clinic would be available for all schools in our area and would be available for any wrestlers from third grade through high school. Could you tell me if there is a problem with this or is this going to okay?
A.: This sort of thing could be done by a nonschool provider – it would not need to be a problem. See II- A and II-C-3 of the Rules At A Glance.
9-15-06
7-7-06
Q.: According to WIAA rules, can a coach tell athletes of his/her team they need to get so many lifts in (days of lifting) during the summer before they can suit up for a contest?
A.: This feels to be one of those "Q's" - you already know the answer is going to be "ABSOLUTELY NOT"! But coach wouldn't believe you unless they saw it from here. Please See Article I-2 of the Rules At A Glance (then point out Article IV of the same document.)
Q.: Can a high school cross country runner compete in summer races, for example, Cinder Days 5K Run? I believe yes, as long as they pay the registration and there is no coaching going on by the fall season CC coach. Along with that, can the high school runner receive a prize, t-shirt, money, medal, etc., if they were to win or place in that summer race?
A.: WIAA rules do not prevent an athlete from participating in this sort of opportunity during the sum- mer. Running coaches are allowed coaching contact in the summer...like baseball and softball coaches, etc. Contact may not resemble a schools team practicing/competing outside the season, except if a part of the five unrestricted days Also, keep in mind - technically an athlete can be reimbursed actual and necessary costs connected to competition - including entry fees. An athlete may not accept cash or merchandise for their achievement in athletics. The other awards you've identified would be acceptable, with the addition of ribbons and trophies.
Q.: We had an unusual gift offer. Our local dentist wants to personally fit all our football players with mouth guards and donate all of them to the school at no cost. Can we do this?
A.: Yes, not a problem, so long as any/every student who wishes to go out for football has access to the same opportunity (9-12).
Q.: Some of the schools in our area are scheduling summer league games to be hosted at a variety of sites. Can we schedule any game after July 31? No coaches are coaching so it is not a "contact" day. Please clarify this rule for me.
A.: "Schools" must conclude any school sponsored summer opportunities by no later then July 31. Also coach contact as part of the unrestricted contact days must conclude on July 31 as well. School facilities might be used by non school organizations after July 31...in accordance with local school board policy. Coaching restrictions apply...may not resemble the school's team and etc. Basically same requirements as for any other "acceptable" non-school program. Must be voluntary, open to any who are interested, etc. See: Article I and Article II, A & C of Rules At A Glance.
5-25-06
Q.: We are trying to promote our summer school program, and I am offering some softball courses for elemen- tary and middle school kids. What role can older (high school) athletes play in that? Can they help out? Can they take a class? I realize that I have very little coaching restriction for softball during the summer, I was just won- dering how that relates to classes.
A.: No problem with offering these courses - In the summer (from the end of school, up to the start of school in the fall) Ref. Sr. High Handbook p.26 Article II, Sect. 2B-2 and p.37-38 Art. VI, Section 2C-3e. You can use/involve your HS students to assist you, as clinicians for up to a max of six days of contact in this capacity per/student. Or, they may take a class, but only for a max. of five days. This is the extent approved for "Schools" to sponsor instruction, etc., for students in 9-12. Coaching restrictions are at com- pletely opposite ends of spectrum and you should not confuse or blur the two. On one hand you are addressing "school programming" and the other comes under nonschool.
Q.: Is it true that we as a school can issue football equipment to our players for padded football camps? If so, can we issue football equipment to our player for our schools padded football camp? I tried to find the answer on your website without luck. The WFCA website states that we can with more infor- mation to come.
A.: If your school board gives their formal approval, you can issue them (either free or rented, as you may wish).
Q.: Talking with some AD's at the Annual Meeting, the conversation came up concerning alumni coming back and practicing with high school teams during different times of the respective season and if they counted as a scrimmage. A couple examples were in wrestling and basketball. A former wrestler coming back and wrestling with someone of the present team or several basketball players from previous years coming back and practicing with the present team. Does the WIAA consider this to be a scrimmage when that happens?
A.: As you have described one variety of a common scenario, the simplest answer is "no." Best related text/descriptions are found in Rules At A Glance. II-E (key terms are/or reference "interscholastic" [school] teams). And, Bylaws, Art. II Section 5-E-note (p. 27).
5-5-06
Q.: I have a few students who are talking about putting a team together for a summer co-ed high-pitch softball league. This league does give out cash prizes at the end of the year. If they participate will they be in violation Article III? I was not sure because of the type of sport.
A.: Simple answer would be: If the students accepted, received or directed to another - any sort of cash or merchandise awards - for their performance or achievement in this summer softball league, it would be an amateur status violation (Rules of Eligibility, Article IV - Senior High Handbook) - and career ending. However, be clear, this does not mean that the students can not put a team together, participate/compete and have fun. But make it clear on their entry form, make it clear to the league organizers, these are HS, amateur athletes, competing for "fun" and may not/will not accept any sort of prize other then those sym- bolic awards as identified. Also, caution your players to stay as far away from anything which would be able to be "alleged" later on. That experience can be distressing and distracting, the day before the region- al tournament. In this setting most common allegations we hear next fall are that: Parents or "college friends" accepted $$ - and "kids" received it under the table later on; Rather then cash, team got "free food"; In around summer leagues, alcohol is sometimes present/available; Playing under an assumed name.
Q.: Our district offers numerous summer school offerings (including various sports/activities) and one of them is a volleyball fundamentals for students currently in grades 3-8. They are done in two different three week sec- tions. Are current 8th graders (next years 9th graders) allowed to participate in this summer school activity? One of the sessions is taught by one of the Phys. Ed. teachers and the other session is taught by our girls VB coach. Does this make a difference?
A.: Current 8th graders would be allowed to participate in this course. If one of the course instructors is the 9th grade vb coach, then the coaching contact restrictions would be applicable. JV and varsity coach- es are allowed contact until students begin 9th grade.
Q.: My son is interested in playing high school football next year. During the summer, he would like to attend camp where helmets and pads are being worn. I understand that this may not always be allowed. Can my son wear a helmet and pads in camp and still be eligible to play high school football in the fall?
A.: Fundamental answer to your question is yes. Attending a "padded camp" in and of itself would not adversely affect your son's eligibility. The larger question is about who is issuing the pads - the camp or your own school? If "your school" is inclined to issue, then that requires official school board approval.
Q.: Are athletes prohibited from being instructors for school sponsored summer schools courses? Examples – Swim Instructors; Athletic Camp Leaders (directors).
A.: Not sure I have enough information to be real accurate or detailed here. An athlete can be employed. It is not uncommon that a school district might sponsor swim lesson through their community ed program and swimmers sometimes make great life guards and beginning instructors. Not a problem with that at all - provided the employment opportunity is posted and available to all interested applicants. Not certain of the specifics you might have in mind, though.
4-21-06
Q.: I am a concerned parent whose child would like to go on and play football in college. This is a very excit- ing thing for him, being contacted by other organizations regarding his football skills and stats. In April & May, he has been invited to the midwest high school combine and another combine (sorry, not sure what it was called), could you tell me if attending these combines will affect his playing high school football eligibility next fall? Just recently he was contacted by NCSA, could you tell me if any ongoing contact with this organization will affect his playing eligibility? What can you tell me about these "combines" or NCSA? Please identify what rules and regulations apply if my son has any further contact?
A.: Attending a combine, would not automatically/not typically, in and of itself present a youngster with any eligibility problems. Unless, for some unusual reason a student had their "fees" to attend waived, while everyone else had to pay, or they received a cash or merchandise sort of award for their attendance or performance in the testing. Or, if a student did a commercial, advertised or endorsed the business. I would need to know a little about NCSA, I will imagine it stands for national college scouting - something or another. Would need to know who the person is that has contacted your son from this group, what they are charging, and what they claim to do.
Q.: Our student council is in the planning stages of fun activities for our student body in conjunction with an Arbor Day that will be held later in this school year. One of the activities that they would like to do is a three- on-three "mini-ball" tournament. Portable hoops would be brought into our parking lot, set at an 8 ft. height, and let the games begin! Would an event like this fall under a "school sponsored" activity (basketball) held outside of the season, and thus be a violation of season regulations? Can this type of activity be held without any peril to our student body? In the summer - as part of the five unrestricted days and/or during the membership approved basketball season this would not be a problem. The activity, as currently planned, would be open to any student(s) who wish to participate.
A.: YES. Can't be seen any other way - as designed, student council is "school sponsored". If the only dif- ference between mini ball and basketball is that the net is set at eight feet, or a smaller ball is used, I'd say it's still basketball – school sponsored – and students who have a past status in your school's program and still have remaining eligibility should not be involved in this added season of school sponsored basketball outside the season. In the summer - as part of the five unrestricted days and/or during the membership- approved basketball season, this would not be a problem.
Q.: Girls who play on our HS team are also involved in a league during the summer with other HS teams from our area. I have been informed that beginning this year our youth softball organization wants to pay the entry fee for this league and for any tournaments our girls are in. After reading page 38 (Section 2C-5) in the Handbook, I am not clear as to the legality of this. Previously the fees have always been covered by the girls or their parents. Please let me know if this is permissible.
A.: This can be done within the rules if school administration wishes to allow. The SB organization just needs to reconcile this within the amateur status provisions, i.e., an athlete may not "benefit" because of their ability/potential as an athlete - and/or - in a manner not available to other interested students. So long as the opportunity - getting league fees/entry fees is made known and available to any/all girls inter- ested in "summer league." (Not just available/limited to a select few individuals, which is viewed as spe- cial benefit.) Then, an athlete can be reimbursed actual and necessary costs associated with competition – this may include league/tournament entry fees.
3-29-06
Q.: The head volleyball coach would like to run a summer league with area schools competing in conjunction with the five contact dates allowed. Teams would be charged to enter the league to cover cost of officials and gym use. Can the coach run this through the school account and be covered by the schools insurance?
A.: Simply put - yes. If the district wishes to sponsor five days of this sort of summer opportunity, they now can. The max is up to those five dates...and must be made known to/available to your own school's students same as all other school sponsored opportunities. Unrestricted contact days must be identified between the end of school and July 31.
Q.: My coach thought that he read somewhere that a change was approved to allow school teams to run summer three on three tournaments etc. Is this correct?
A.: Simply put - yes. The changes (Bylaws and Rules of Eligibility) approved at the 2005 Annual Meeting - effectively, allow you to do this - within the five day window of approved/unrestricted contact days in the summer. (Amateur status and other requirements, e.g., for access to "school sponsored" programming, remain in effect.)
Q.: I am a track and cross country coach. I would like to hold an Alumni Run for former and current athletes, as well as parents during the summer. This Alumni Run would mimic an actual cross country meet complete with starting lines, flags and timing; minus the officials. This event would be held at a local park where previous meets have been held. Scores are only done between a team of current athletes and a team of alumni and parents for bragging rights. Again, this event would be voluntary to all current athletes. a) Would I be breaking any rules by doing this? b) Can athletes from other teams participate? c) Would it be okay to have current athletes compete as a group from their respective school, or is it too much like a scrimmage?
A.: a) As you are describing this event I see it as a school team practicing/competing out-of-season. A prob- lem - Unless scheduled as one of your five unrestricted days - from the end of school to July 31. b) Yes, if as one of the five unrestricted days. c) If a part of the five unrestricted days, yes.
2-10-06
Q.: I am writing in regards to the leadership seminar that is being sponsored by the WIAA and WFCA. We would like our team to attend and would like to sponsor this with our football activity account, which is a stu- dent activity account. Is this a violation of the WIAA policies? Thank you in advance for your information.
A.: You can do this. This is a program about "leadership/sportsmanship." The WIAA does not view this seminar as a sport specific or skill of the sport - type camp/clinic or training/instruction. If school administration wishes to approve school funds for such use, they may. Some prerequisites may be allowed. Some consideration is recommended, that access to the opportunity is provided in a manner consistent with other similar/approved and school funded opportunities and how the eligible student set may be identified.
12-16-05
Q.: A number of our girls that play soccer want to run a 4-5th grade girls indoor soccer clinic in January and want to use our school gyms. If this is not alright they would try and use a neighboring YMCA. Are either of these situations legal?
A.: Best time for this sort of thing is early in-season. Otherwise, the students are the private business/provider (school's may not do this except in the summertime). The students would be responsi- ble for rent, insurance, etc. Best would be for "soccer boosters or local rec. dept to sponsor and to do it when kids and coaches can be involved - once the season is underway.
8-22-05
Q.: I coach varsity baseball. Recently one of my assistant coaches asked me why we can't organize a fall baseball league for area local high school athletes in northern Wisconsin and neighboring Minnesota during the fall, like the University of Minnesota and probably many other schools do? My immediate reaction to this was that it probably conflicts with several WIAA regulations and wouldn't be possible. Considering the following descrip- tion, is this the case? It would be something that would be open to any high school kid that we could reach through local newspapers (northern WI and MN). The high school facilities would not be used, as a city field would be available. Coaches, other than those on our own staff would supervise the games. Games would be played on Sat. and/or Sun. during the last week of August and the month of September. Players would provide their own equipment. A registration fee would be collected to pay for new game baseballs, umpires, misc. field maintenance, and insurance. And ideally we would have some money left over to serve as a fundraiser for our high school program. What is you interpretation of this type of "Fall League"?
A.: WIAA rules only regulate what member schools can do. We do not control what private clubs, city rec. programs, YMCA's, etc., choose to do. That's a way of saying, a fall baseball opportunity certainly might be offered within a community or region. We have no control of that. A school may not be involved, finan- cially or in any other way. See Bylaws - Article II (Handbook p. 26) Sections 1-5. Also important to have a clear understanding of "acceptable" nonschool programs and teams. This is clearly articulated in the Senior High Handbook, too. See Rules of Eligibility - Article VI, Section 2 A - B, C, etc. This is important information, which would shape an acceptable opportunity or one which would lead to problems for the school's team.
Q.: I'm looking at taking a group of boys somewhere next April (2006) during their spring break and prior to the start of the spring baseball season in May. Activities would be baseball practice and games. I'm a parent of one of the boys and all the "coaches" involved would be parents. The school would have no involvement: no equip- ment, no uniforms, no financing, no communications, no coaches, etc. From what I understand and have read on the WIAA website, it would seem that this would be an acceptable activity. Is there someone that can confirm that "Spring Training Baseball" without the school's involvement is acceptable?
A.: I would strongly recommend caution and consultation with your school's athletic director - for two pri- mary reasons. First, the Associations Rules of Eligibility, Article VI – Nonschool Participation, Section 2 - Out-of-Season, reads as follows: " It is the philosophy of this Association that while student athletes should not be unreasonably restricted, except during the actual school season of a sport, no activity in which they are engaged should resemble in any way a school team practicing or competing out of season." What I hear you describing to me sounds like an effort to assemble the schools ball team in advance of the sum- mer baseball season and begin practice and play - before the season officially begins and hope to call it something else. I am not able to tell you that's acceptable. Second, you may want to schedule a visit with your school's AD to go over this topic. Your AD should always be your first contact for those questions/con- cerns regarding a student's school sport participation. If a member's AD has questions, we are ready to respond – they know how to reach us and in accordance with participation in this membership, a school's administration is responsible for the compliance of its school's programs, as well as the programs eligibil- ity for involvement in the WIAA's tournament series.
4-14-05
Q.: I read an article recently in a widely distributed periodical that I want to bring to your attention. The article focused on lettering of athletes by a coach in another state who used both in and out-of-season criteria in deter- mining of who receives an athletic letter. I was approached by one coach already with a question on the article. Knowing how many coaches receive this magazine, I thought it would be best to share this with you. My inter- pretation is this is not allowable in our regulations as the incentives and activities in this program are limited to students based on their team and school affiliation.
A.: You are 100 percent correct in your understanding. Requiring nonschool participation as a component of meeting school program "letter" requirements is inappropriate/not in compliance with present WIAA interpretations. The specific and best text on this interpretation can be found in the WIAA Rules at a Glance, Article I. Deconstruct: In part, one of the qualities we look for in "acceptable (nonschool) pro- grams" is that participation is "voluntary." By incorporating incentives/punishments like playing time, letter awards, or "extra conditioning," etc., that fundamental quality (voluntary) is no longer met. Nonschool participation becomes mandatory. That becomes a compliance issue in WI at this point in time.
Q.: We will be running our normal summer school classes and offerings. This coming summer we would like to include a couple of different classes including a couple of sports specific classes. These two classes go directly towards the sports of baseball and basketball. Of course our summer school is open to all district students and also includes some non-district students. So we have a wide variety of students attending our summer school courses. I did read the references, specifically Article II Sections 1-5 of the High School Bylaws, and also Article I Section 5 of the Rules of Eligibility. Basically what it comes down to is what is and is not allowed in these summer courses. The baseball course is planned to be taught by our current head baseball coach and will include rules, fundamentals and specifics of the game of baseball. The basketball course is planned to be taught by our current head boys basketball coach and will include rules, fundamentals and specifics of the game of basketball. Again these courses or classes are open to all district students and even some non-district students. There is of course, the high possibility that in these two classes, there may be some current high school athletes. This is the area that I need your interpretation on. If this is or could be an infraction of the Bylaws I will restructure the classes accordingly. Also these classes may also include students from grades 3-12 some that are current HS athletes, some that may become HS athletes and some that are not HS athletes.
A.: Right now, as Bylaws presently exist, if you wish to continue as a member in good standing with the WIAA you cannot do what you propose. Bylaws Article II, Section 2-A-1,2,3 (Handbook p. 26). "A school may not assemble athletes or prospective athletes in physical education classes, or some other manner for purposes of teaching....except during the designated school season of a sport." A little further down, this same area clearly allows that schools may provide this sort of opportunity (camp/clinic/summer school) for students who have just completed 8th grade or below. This is not by any means a new rule. If your head coaches are veteran, they must/or certainly should be aware of this rule. Secondly, WIAA Rules of Eligibility allow a student only one season of "school sponsored sport" each school year (not more then four seasons in all, grades 9-12). This summer-school-sponsored sport season would count as one of those four allowable seasons. (Handbook p. 34-35, Article V, Section 1-A-3c. Should you decide to proceed and offer these courses anyway, you would really want to discourage any athletes with past status in the respec- tive sport programs and remaining eligibility from enrolling. Lastly, this interpretation reflects the status quo. I also mentioned the Mar. 25 WIAA Bulletin and some of the proposed constitutional changes, which if approved, would allow for what you are proposing - up to a max of five days in the summer from the end of school to July 31.
12-13-04
Q.: As you are well aware, captain's practices are a fairly common entity. The issue I need clarification for is regarding whether or not the "said" captains can have a written workout/practice plan to follow or implement. Not a plan authored by a coach, but by the kids (captains) only?
A.: There is plenty of misunderstanding about "captains practices." First, there is no restriction against "voluntary assembling" in the summer time without school/coach involvement....(Handbook p. 38, #2). Otherwise the applicable text is found on Handbook 37-2A "resembling a school team practicing out-of- season." "Open Gyms" are acceptable.
Q.: We want to have a clinic here on Friday, Nov. 12 and Saturday, Nov. 13. The clinic is run by a former All- American from Wisconsin, and currently a director of a wrestling organization. Admission is free. Anyone is able to attend, K-12. Other parameters are: He will not coach with us at all this year; I will only be opening up the door, and closing down the place; I made announcements in the school, and put it in the local paper; Our high school athletes would be the athletes, not the instructors or the coaches. Obviously it is strictly voluntary to attend. Question is are we following the guidelines acceptable for our (Grades9-12) high school athletes?Youth, I believe are fine.
A.: This sort of opportunity can be provided within the rules. Since it is scheduled to take place during the school year - but outside of the season, it must be sponsored by a nonschool interest...perhaps your mat club...or the Kiwanis, etc. Be sure the sponsor has gone through district procedures for securing use of your facility.
Q.: I have had several notes and emails regarding "Club Volleyball" starting in our community. Our volleyball coach has handed out information, and she asked me if "The Club" can use the school on Sundays for practice. She is trying to get two teams (different age groups) set up, she has two community people who are going to coach the teams (but she will have to open up the building). I have a lot of questions, some of which will be addressed by our School Board policy. The biggest question I have for you (or your office) is, "Does there seem to be anything regarding eligibility of athletes or our volleyball program that I need to be concerned about?" Is this looked at as us (the school) sponsoring this program? She has filled out building usage forms requested hav- ing "volleyball open gyms" on Wednesday nights from November through June. The obvious problem I see is that it seems to be encouraging specialization in our school when we can't afford to have our few athletes spe- cializing. Is there a problem with this?
A.: This opportunity may not be school sponsored in any way. The potential sanctions against a member school found in noncompliance can be substantial. If an individual, acting privately or a nonschool organ- ization like the Elks can secure use of your school facilities, then club volleyball might also secure use of your facilities. Keep in mind your policy for use of facilities might include hold harmless agreements and some sort of insurance be held by an event organizer/sponsor. The district is not/may not sponsor volley- ball - except during the school season. A couple of things to keep in mind. 1. A nonschool group may use school facilities in accordance with school district policy. 2. Open Gym is a school sponsored activity....must be open to " any student interested," there is no organizing or instruction by a coach or anyone else allowed in open gyms. 3. An "acceptable opportunity" (whether school sponsored or private- ly sponsored) is one which is not based on school or team status. The Rules At A Glance address much of this in Article I and II.
12-1-04
Q.: Can a coach from a winter season sport require an athlete to be at tryouts for their sport while the athlete is still in season and participating in a fall sport that overlaps the start of that winter sport and hold it against the athlete for not being at the tryouts? My interpretation is that until the fall sports coach signs the athlete off, releas- es, or the athlete quits the athlete is still a participant in the fall sport that they are in and may not report or have any contact with the winter sports coach until released or the season ends.
A.: The simple answer to your question is "NO." Second, if a winter sport coach is conducting tryouts now, it should probably be brought to the attention of school administration before more serious problems arise from this violation.
Q.: Our activities dept. is seeking to hold a 3-on-3 tourney outside of basketball season (late October or early November) – four people per team open to all students on the campus by signing up in the SAD office, students create teams, done on a weekend (Friday night, Saturday). Is this anything that violates out-of-season rules for basketball? Are coaches allowed to be present without instruction, such as would be the case with an open gym?
A.: Can't do! Please see Handbook - Bylaws, Article II - Section 1, 2 and 5. Bylaws are the "terms" for joining this association. As you've described it, this is school sponsored basketball outside the season. If the director waits a couple weeks (once the basketball season begins) he can do this - no problem.
10-8-04
Q.: We have a booster club that puts together a program with pictures, etc., for our winter sports home games. Can they take the picture for the teams before the season starts? Can they take a picture with a few kids before the season starts for the front cover? I am wondering about jerseys and giving jerseys for pictures before the start of the season.
A.: All of this can be accomplished within present interpretations. (The past couple years teams have been allowed more then one pre season organizational meeting; use of school equipment for photos has never been a problem.) I suggest the preapproval of all related elements with school administration, as opposed to just the winter coach and/or boosters beginning to schedule things while students may still be involved in full season activities.
5-21-04
Q.: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) is hosting a breakfast at the PGA Golf Tournament in Sheboygan on August 10, and they would like to invite area golf coaches and players to be their guests at the breakfast. They also have about 600 free passes to the practice rounds on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday that they would like to give away. My question is whether our golf team members risk their eligibility by attending the breakfast or by receiving the free passes to the practice rounds. It sounds like a great opportunity for them, but I do not want to jeopardize their status.
A.: We have determined that this is an acceptable opportunity, provided your school administration wish- es to approve, based on Bylaw Article XI, Section 2B - Group Entertainment provision (Handbook p. 29). In addition I just hung up the phone following a conversation with a member of the organizing commit- tee. This is essentially the same response I offered him. He also indicated that the opportunity was not lim- ited to "just school golfers", but in reality no interested student would be turned away.
Q.: In girls soccer or any high school soccer team, is it illegal for the team to practice on their own? I mean if the team gets together and call a practice that is not mandatory and they work on their skills (what they want to do) with a parent.
A.: In the Rules of Eligibility (WIAA Handbook, p. 38, # 2) the text indicates: "There are no restrictions relative to voluntary assembling (without school/coach involvement) of students during the summer (when school is not in session)."
Q.: My football coach has asked me if our school could be used as a site to host a football summer league. I'm assuming that the school can't sponsor this type of thing. However, my understanding is that a rec department or youth organization could as long as they reserve our facility like any other group in the community. My ques- tion is this, our rec department is run/under the school district. Can our rec department sponsor this type of thing?
A.: Community ed models, i.e., under the direction/control of the "school" district, Board of Ed, etc., have been seen as "school sponsoring"...and to this point have been interpreted as being in non compliance. The present interpretation needs to be "No, not for senior high level sport programming." The "school" can only assemble athletes/provide instruction/competition, etc., during the school season." Bylaw references. Certainly, school facilities can be used by nonschool sponsors...in accordance with district policy for their use. Your community ed. programming CAN provide sport opportunities in the summertime, for students who've just completed 8th grade on down without a problem.
5-21-04
Q.: My DECA Chapter, An Association of Marketing Students, is currently working on organizing a three-on- three basketball tournament. We proposed the idea to our athletic director and he had some concerns that he wanted us to contact you about. We would have student-athletes participating from both our varsity and junior varsity squads. We were hoping to have an entry fee for each team of contestants. With that money we were going to purchase gift certificates to area businesses to give out as prizes to the top three teams. Can student-athletes receive these prizes or does it break any WIAA rules or scholarship requirements?
A.: There are a number of concerns inherent in your preliminary plan. First, DECA is a school spon- sored/directed activity in your school, I presume. As such this competition must be looked upon as "school sponsored" basketball competition outside the designated school season. As this is not in compliance with the provisions of your school's membership...the best you can do is NOT allow any members of your school's basketball teams who have remaining eligibility to compete in this fund raiser. It would be regarded as another season of school sponsored sport competition. A student athlete may only have one season of school sponsored basketball per school year, a total of four in their HS years. Secondly, a student ath- lete may only receive a symbolic award for achievement/performance as an athlete...i.e., medal, ribbon, trophy, etc. Review the Association's Bylaws on p. 26 of the Senior High Handbook. Article II, Section 1 and 2, in particular. Also see Article X - Awards on p. 29. Then you might wish to review Amateur Status provisions in the Rules of Eligibility on p. 34 (Article IV). Lastly, under Article V, Section 1A - 3c address- es the "single season/per school year" provision I mentioned.
Q.: I have had a parent request that he be able to coach a high school boy's basketball team in some tournaments after the completion of the regular and WIAA tournament series. Am I correct in saying that it is permissible as long as it is not a school sponsored activity, no school coaches are involved, and that the team must be open to anyone in the school, not just those that participated in basketball the prior season? If that is correct please reply as such. If I am incorrect please advise as to the correct interpretation.
A.: Looks like you have hit most of the key points on this. Do be clear and distinct, it might be a high school grade or age group, it is not/may not be "the high school team." Semantics, I know. See the WIAA Handbook, p. 37 Section 2. The preamble in 2A is pretty clear.
4-30-04
Q.: Is there any problem with our school offering a summer school course teaching basketball?
A.: Please be extremely careful in this school sponsored summer school/sport programming. It could result in numbers of athletes losing a season of eligibility. Please begin by reviewing the Association's BYLAWS (contained in the Senior High Handbook). These are the provisions a member agrees to, upon "joining the club." In particular, carefully read p. 26/Article II, Sections 1 & 2. Then please look at WIAA Rules at a Glance, Article II Sections A, especially, then C and D, may have some application. (Go to our website (www.wiaawi.org), pull down on the "Regulations Tab" and click on "WIAA Rules Overview" for the Rules at a Glance.) When "schools" are sponsoring instruction/practice or competition outside the desig- nated school season, the best friendly advice I can offer is DO NOT allow any student athlete with status in that sport program, who still has remaining eligibility, participate in another season of school-spon- sored sport. A student is allowed only one season of school sport per school year and a total of four in their school career. A school sponsored summer school class (or one night, student council/prom-lockdown vol- leyball) would be one season worth of eligibility (please see Handbook p.34/35, Article V, Section 1A - 3, especially). You could offer wrestling as part of your summer school programming, your wrestling coach could be paid to teach the course and all your school's wrestlers who take the course would lose a year of eligibility (whether your coach taught it or not). Your school may not sponsor wrestling except during the wrestling season (or basketball or volleyball or softball, etc. – any/all WIAA recognized sports).