PHILOSOPHY OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ACTIVITIES

Interscholastic athletics in the Cooperstown Central School District is a component of the health and physical education program and therefore is an integral part of the district's total educational program. Athletics should be a broadening experience created through striving for physical and mental excellence. This value-building experience should be offered to as many students as possible. A well-coordinated program is vitally important to the morale of the school and our community.

Everyone involved in the delivery of athletics possesses a unique opportunity to teach positive life skills and values. Therefore, this educational experience demands highly qualified coaches. Desire, dedication, and self-discipline need to be developed in order to ensure the commitment and personal sacrifice required by athletes. Making such a commitment helps to nurture integrity, pride, loyalty, and overall character. The final outcome is a better citizenry carrying these values throughout their life.

It is the nature of athletic competition to strive for victory. However, the number of victories is only one criterion when determining a season's success. Guiding the team to attain maximum potential is the ultimate goal. To this end, the coaching staff must teach student/athletes to prepare their minds and bodies in order to reach maximum potential, and then to be modest in victory and steadfast in defeat.

MODIFIED PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

This program is available to all students in the seventh, eighth, and ninth grades (sport specific). Sport activities offered are determined by the existence of leagues, student interest, and the relationship to the high school program. At this level, the focus is on learning athletic skills and game rules, fundamentals of team play, socio-emotional growth, physiologically appropriate demands on the adolescent body, and healthy competition.

At the modified level, the number of teams and size of the squad in any sport will be determined by the availability of: 1) financial resources 2) qualified coaches 3) suitable indoor or outdoor facilities 4) a safe environment.  In order for the desired development of the adolescent athlete and team to occur, practice sessions are vital. The New York State Public High School Athletic Association publishes regulations by which practice sessions are governed. Opportunities for meaningful contest participation for each team member will exist over the course of a season.

JUNIOR VARSITY PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

The junior varsity level is intended for those who display the potential of continued development into productive varsity level performers.

At this level, athletes are expected to have visibly committed themselves to the program, team and continued self development. To this end, increased emphasis is placed on physical conditioning, refinement of fundamental skills, elements and strategies of team play and socio-emotional development. Junior varsity programs work toward achieving a balance between continued team and player development and striving for victory. The outcome of the contest becomes a consideration at this level.

The realization that practice sessions are important is a premise that is vital to a successful junior varsity team and player. For all team members, meaningful contest participation will exist over the course of a season; however, a specified amount of playing time is never guaranteed. Participants at this level are preparing themselves for the six-day-a-week commitment that is expected at the varsity level. Contest and practice sessions are sometimes scheduled during school vacation periods. With the goal of becoming a varsity athlete clearly in sight, a high level of dedication and commitment is expected at the junior varsity level.

VARSITY PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY

Varsity competition is the culmination of each sport's program. Normally, seniors and juniors make up the majority of the roster. Occasionally, sophomores and infrequently freshmen may be included on the team providing that evidence of advanced levels of physical development, athletic skill and appropriate socio-emotional development is demonstrated. It is possible but rare for a middle school level student to be included on a varsity roster (see NYSPHSAA Selection/Classification Program).

Squad size at the varsity level is limited. The number of participants on any given team is a function of those needed to conduct an effective and meaningful practice and to play the contest. It is vital that each team member have a role and be informed of its importance. The number of roster positions is relative to the students' acceptance of their individual roles in pursuit of the team's goals. While contest participation over the course of a season is desirable, a specified amount of playing time at the varsity level is never guaranteed.

A sound attitude and advanced level of skill are prerequisites for a position on a varsity team, as is the realization that a varsity sport requires a six-day-a-week commitment. This commitment is often extended into vacation periods for all sport seasons.  The dedication and commitment needed to conduct a successful varsity program should be taken seriously.

The varsity coach is the leader of that sport's program and determines the system of instruction and strategy for that program. The communication among the modified, junior varsity and varsity programs is the responsibility of the varsity coach. Preparing to win, striving for victory in each contest and working to reach the group's and individual's maximum potential are worthy goals of a varsity level team.

Physical Education Requirement

Athletics is an outgrowth of the Physical Education Program. The wide range of activities in physical education gives the students an excellent background in physical fitness, lifetime sports and team sports. Because of the importance of physical education, all athletes will be required to participate in physical education throughout the year.

Athletes who are illegally absent from physical education classes will not be permitted to attend practices or games on the day of the absence. The NYSPHSAA regulations state that a student must be enrolled in physical education to participate in athletics.

Responsibilities of a Cooperstown Athlete

Being a member of a Cooperstown athletic team is a privilege and honor. To many athletes, it is the fulfillment of an early ambition. The attainment of this goal carries with it certain traditions and responsibilities that must be attained. A great athletic tradition has been developed by the hard work of many people over the years. As a member of an athletic squad at Cooperstown, you have inherited a great tradition. Your actions will reflect not only on those who you are associated with now, but those who have contributed so much to our school in the past.

In today's society you will be asked to make sacrifices that will benefit yourself, your team and your school. In the long run you and your family will be proud of the sacrifices and dedication that you have put forth to be a member of our athletic teams. If you have taken this opportunity to make yourself a better individual, it will be truly a gratifying educational experience. The highs and lows of athletic competition are achieved through hard work, dedication and discipline and are rewarded with the development of fond memories and personal achievements.

Responsibilities to Others:

You have a responsibility to your parents to always do the best you can. When participating in athletics, we sometimes feel that we have failed if we have not won. By trying the best that you can and following all rules set up by your squad, you can feel justifiably proud of yourself no matter what the win-loss record dictates.

Younger students look up to you and it is your responsibility to set a good example for them. They will copy a lot of things that you do just to be a member of your group. They need attention and guidance, so always take a few minutes to encourage them in whatever way possible.

Responsibilities to Your School:

Another responsibility you assume as a squad member is to your school. Cooperstown cannot maintain its position as an outstanding school unless you do your best in whatever activity you wish to engage. By participating in athletics to the maximum of your ability, you are contributing to the reputation of the school.

Responsibilities to Yourself:

The most important of these responsibilities is to broaden yourself and develop strength of character. You owe it to yourself to get the greatest possible good from your high school experience. Your studies, your participation in other school activities, as well as athletics, prepare you for your life as an adult.

Academics

The Athletic Department recognizes that the primary responsibility of student/athletes is educational. Therefore, the Athletic Department supports the concept that student/athletes should work to their potential in the classroom and be committed to achieving maximum academic success. While scholastic achievement is determined on an individual basis, the Administration and the Athletic Department reserve the right to determine one's eligibility to participate in athletic events.

All student athletes must realize that their main purpose for attending school is to receive an education. A good athlete usually becomes a good student.  If you are lazy in class, you will be lazy in the practice arena and never reach your full potential. As an athlete, you must plan your schedule so that you give sufficient time and energy to ensure acceptable grades.

Athletic Code of Conduct--Cooperstown Central School

At the beginning of each sports season (Fall, Winter and Spring), each athlete and their parents or guardians will be required to sign an Athletic Code of Conduct. This Code of Conduct outlines the rules and regulations that each athlete must abide by while participating on a Cooperstown sports team. The code addresses students' behavior in the school, community and athletic arena; sportsmanship; academics; use of athletic equipment; and training and conditioning requirements.

The Athletic Code of Conduct commits the athlete to many responsibilities and this code must be signed and turned in to the coaching staff prior to the first contest. If the Athletic Code of Conduct is not turned in on time, the athlete will not be allowed to participate.

We need the help of parents and guardians to make the athletic Code of conduct successful and by signing this form we hope you are making the commitment to enforce it with your daughter/son. click here

Attendance Policy

Participation in an activity or sport is but one part of a student's educational program. It is a school policy that students will be present in school (by 8:25 AM) in order to participate in a practice or game. It is also understood that habitual tardiness to school could lead to suspension or dismissal from an athletic team. All athletes should be in school the day following athletic contests, if it is a school day.

Athletes suspended in school or out-of-school for any disciplinary infraction will not be allowed to practice or participate in any contest until reinstated back in school.

Code of Ethics -- NYSPHSAA, Inc.

It is the duty of all concerned with school athletics:

1. To emphasize the proper ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct and fair play.

2. To eliminate all possibilities which tend to destroy the best values of the game.

3. To stress the values derived from playing the game fairly.

4. To show cordial courtesy to visiting teams and officials.

5. To establish a happy relationship between visitors and hosts.

6. To respect the integrity and judgment of the sports officials.

7. To achieve a thorough understanding and acceptance of the rules of the game and the standards of eligibility.

8. To encourage leadership, use of initiative and good judgment by players on the team.

9. To recognize that the purpose of athletics is to promote the physical, mental, moral, social and

emotional well-being of individual players.

10. To remember that an athletic contest is only a game--not a matter of life or death for player, coach,school, fan or community.

Changing Sports

Students may change from one sport to another provided that they have received permission from the coaches involved and the athletic director. If he/she has been cut from one team, it is legitimate to tryout for another.

Conflicts With Other School Activities

An individual student who attempts to participate in too many activities will undoubtedly be in a position of conflicting obligations. The Athletic Department recognizes that each student should have the opportunity for a broad range of experiences in school activities and, to this end, will attempt to schedule events in a manner so as to minimize conflict. The athletes and parents/guardians must realize that many times schedules cannot be changed because of league or section regulations or facility usage.

Students have a responsibility to do everything they can to avoid continuous conflicts. This would include being cautious about belonging to too many activities where conflicts are bound to happen. It also means notifying the coaches involved immediately when a conflict arises, not the day of the conflict.

FAMILY VACATIONS

When parents and student/athletes choose to take their family vacations during sport seasons, it must be understood that the time missed by the student/athlete can affect team chemistry and personal conditioning. Student/athletes who miss practices or competition for any reason may have their positions or playing time adjusted. Coaches shall make every effort to inform parents and student/athletes of the season's schedule as far in advance as possible.

Games & Practice Sessions

Team members must be present and on time for all scheduled practice sessions and games. Any athlete who is present in school but absent or late to the athletic activity without permission from the coach will be subject to appropriate disciplinary action. That action ranges from a warning to suspension to dismissal from the squad. Remember once you have been placed on a team roster, you are making a commitment to that team for the full season.

Exceptions are limited to:

1. Sickness

2. Emergency appointments (doctor, dentist, court appearance, college visitation)

3. Funerals

4. Religious obligations

5. Special examinations, tests or overlapping seasons

It is the responsibility of the athlete to inform the coach in advance (if possible) prior to missing a practice or game. It should be noted that the Athletic Department realizes that unusual situations arise when the athlete must miss practice.

Our Goal: The experience of participation in athletic contests and activities should reflect the total educational goals of our district.

Our Specific Objectives:

1. To educate the student body in the appreciation of sports and activities and the best way to enjoy them from the point of view of good sportsmanship.

2. To serve as a focal point for the morale, spirit and loyalty of students by providing a common meeting ground and enthusiasm which is shared by all.

3. To allow for the development of physical growth, mental alertness and emotional stability for all those who participate in athletics.

4. To provide the opportunity for a student to learn to handle winning and losing and to make decisions that affect themselves and members of their team.

5. To learn and develop through hard work and dedication a feeling of self-confidence and self-esteem in all participants.

 INJURIES

Any athlete who is seen by a doctor must be released (signed statement) by the doctor that treated your child in order to resume participation with their team. If you have to go to an emergency room for care, please obtain the release (written) before leaving the hospital because many times the attending physician may not be there the next time you visit. This release must be filed with our school nurse. It is the athlete's responsibility to get the release to the school nurse; do not leave this responsibility to some other person (coach, teacher, friend, etc.).

Issuing of School Uniforms & Equipment

It is the responsibility of the athlete to return to the coach all clothing and equipment issued during the season. Failure to do this will result in the athlete paying for the missing articles. Athletes not paying for the missing articles will not be allowed to participate in the next sport season. Athletic equipment becomes more costly each year. It is the responsibility of the student/athlete to return to the coach all clothing and equipment issued. No one should have any equipment home after the season without school permission.

Interscholastic Athletic Activities

The following modified, junior varsity and varsity sports teams make up the interscholastic athletic program in the Cooperstown School District:

Fall:

Varsity Cheerleading

Varsity & Modified Cross Country (Boys' and Girls')

Varsity, JV & Modified Field Hockey

Varsity & Modified "A" Football

Varsity, JV & Modified Boys' Soccer

Varsity, JV & Modified Girls' Soccer

Varsity Girls' Swimming & Diving 

Winter:

Varsity, JV & Modified Boys' Basketball

Varsity, JV & Modified Girls' Basketball

Varsity Bowling (Boys' & Girls')

Varsity & JV Cheerleading

Varsity Boys' Swimming & Diving

Varsity, JV & Modified Girls' Volleyball

Varsity & Modified Wrestling

Spring:

Varsity & Modified Baseball

Varsity Boys' Golf

Varsity, JV & Modified Softball

Varsity Boys' Tennis

Varsity & Modified Track (Boys' & Girls')

NUTRITION

In order to approach peak performance in athletics, student/athletes, parents and coaches need accurate information on how to properly fuel and nourish the body. The following dietary guidelines will be emphasized by the athletic department on an ongoing bas

* Eat more complex carbohydrates.

* Eat moderate amounts of protein.

* Eat less high fat foods.

* Always stay well hydrated, especially in hot weather.

* Maintain a healthy body composition and avoid quick weight loss.

* Replace carbohydrates used for energy during training and competition.

* Eat an appropriate pre-practice/pre-competition meal.

* Don't be tempted by nutritional supplements or other supposed "performance enhancers".

NYSPHSAA Transfer Rule

This rule was established by the NYSPHSAA to control athletic recruitment and athletic shopping.

A. A student who transfers, with a corresponding change in residence of his/her parents (or other persons with whom the student has resided for at least six months) shall become eligible after starting regular attendance in the second school. A residence change must involve a move from one school district to another. Furthermore, when a student moves from one public school district to another public school district, for athletic eligibility, the student must enroll in the public school district of his/her parent's residency.

B. A student who transfers without a corresponding change in residence of his/her parents (or other persons with whom the student has resided for at least six months) is ineligible to participate in any interscholastic athletic contest in a particular sport for a period of one year if the student participated in that sport at the JV or Varsity level during the one year period immediately preceding his/her transfer.

Exemptions To B:

1. The student reaches the age of majority and establishes residency in a district.

2. If a private or parochial school ceases to operate, a student may transfer to another private or parochial school of his/her choice. Otherwise, a student must enroll in the public school district of his/her parents' residency.

3. A student who is a ward of the court or state and is placed in a district by court order. Guardianship does not fulfill this requirement.

4. A student from divorced or separated parents who moves into a new district with one of the aforementioned parents. Such a transfer is allowed once every six months.

NOTE: It is provided, however, that each school shall have the opportunity to petition the section involved to approve a transfer without penalty based on an undue hardship for the student.

Risk Factor in Sports

Participation in sports involves a certain degree of risk of injury and/or death. Before going out for a team, we want you to be aware of the risk so you will be better able to reduce your chances of injury. Pre-season conditioning, learning the skills/techniques, knowledge of the rules, and safety factors will help you have a healthy season. Physical injury or death can occur in any type of activity, be it a "contact" or a "non-contact" sport. Further, many injuries are truly accidental in nature and by volunteering to participate in a school-sponsored athletic activity, a student and his/her parents/guardian assume the risks for injuries to occur.

It is extremely important to report any injury an athlete suffers immediately to his/her coach. Medical expenses resulting from any injury must first be submitted to your own insurance carrier. Any remaining balance can be submitted to the school's accident insurance carrier by processing a claim form that can be obtained from the school nurse.

STUDENT ACCIDENT INSURANCE

The District provides student accident insurance for all student athletes which provides excess coverage above and beyond your own health insurance, paying any excess claims at reasonable and customary rates. For additional information, please contact the nurse's office in the school.

NOTE: The school's accident insurance provides only excess coverage according to a schedule of benefits at reasonable and customary rates.

SCHOOL-SANCTIONED PROGRAMS/TRIPS

There are numerous educational opportunities for students in our school system. The athletic department supports school-sanctioned programs and trips but also realizes that student/athletes who choose to participate in a school exchange may miss substantial amounts of practice time. This affects personal conditioning and team chemistry. As stated in the Family Vacations section, student/athletes who miss practice or competitions for any reason may have their position or playing time adjusted. Coaches, parents and student/athletes have a responsibility to each other to plan and should communicate far in advance of each sport season when considering participation in school-sanctioned programs/trips.

SPORTS PHYSICAL  - BECOMING MEDICALLY CERTIFIED OR RECERTIFIED

Student/Athletes must be medical cleared BEFORE beginning practice each season. The following information summarizes requirements for medical certification.

Physical exams, whether completed by your family physician or the school physician, are considered current for 12 continuous months. Student/Athletes are required to obtain a completely new physical if the previous physical date expires before or during the upcoming sport season.

A student who participates in interscholastic athletic competition must receive an adequate health examination and interval health history update when required and may not practice or participate without the approval of the school medical officer. In order to participate in Interscholastic Sports, a student must present a medical history form, completed and signed by the parent or guardian at the time of the physical examination.

A parent has the option of having the physical examination completed at his own expense by the family physician. In this case, the examination must be reviewed by the school physician at the time the athletic examinations are scheduled. The school physician's decision is final.

Please complete the permission form outlining the rules and regulations governing all participants.

The Athletic Program Emergency Medical Authorization must be returned to your school nurse as soon as practically possible after being completed.

Student Eligibility

1. Age and Grade: According to the Commissioner of Education's regulations, a pupil shall be eligible for senior high school athletic competition in a sport during each of four consecutive seasons of such sport commencing with the pupil's entry into the ninth grade and prior to graduation. A pupil shall be eligible for interschool competition in grades 7,8,9,10,11 and 12 until his/her 19th birthday. A pupil who attains the age of 19 years on or after July 1 may continue to participate during that school year in all sports.

2. Amateur: A student who represents a school in an interscholastic sport shall be an amateur in that sport. An amateur is one who engages in athletic competition solely for the pleasure of the activity and for the benefits derived from participation. An athlete forfeits amateur status in a sport by:

a. Competing for money or other compensation (travel, meals, lodging acceptable)

b. Receiving an award or prize of monetary value which has not been approved by NYSPHSAA, (Only awards/prizes less than $50 value will be approved.)

c. Capitalizing on athletic fame by receiving money and gifts of monetary value (scholarships to higher institutions are exempted).

d. Signing a professional playing contract in that sport.

3. Assumed Name: Participating under an assumed name in any athletic contest shall make the student/athlete ineligible in that sport for one year from the date of violation.

4. Bona Fide Students: A contestant must be a bona fide student of the high school represented and must be taking at least four subjects including physical education.

5. College: A student is no longer eligible to represent the school in that sport in that season if the student participates in practice or competition with or against any college athletic squad.

6. All-Star Contests: The only all-star contests that an athlete may participate in are exceptional senior athlete contests that are approved by the NYSPHSAA.

a. Only seniors who have completed their eligibility in that sport may compete in these contests..

b. A contestant may participate in no more than one approved exceptional athlete contest in the same sport during the school year.

7. Athletic Teams: Student athletes at Cooperstown are allowed to participate on only one athletic team per sports season.

TOBACCO

According to the American College of Sports Medicine, cigarette smoking is a major coronary risk factor. Also, current research shows a dramatic increase in oral cancer for individuals who chew tobacco. Nicotine, the major drug in tobacco, is a widely known stimulant that is highly addictive.

For obvious health, safety and conditioning reasons, the athletic department expects our student/athletes to abstain from all use of tobacco products. The use of tobacco in any form will not help our teams and student/athletes reach their goals of excellence.

Transportation

All team members will be transported to away contests by school authorized vehicles only. The only exception to this policy would be a written request from the parent or guardian to transport their child. The athletic director or his designate must approve the request in advance. It is understood that the athlete must be transported by his/her parent or guardian only - not other family members, friends, etc.

WELLNESS AND SAFETY

THE COACH

All Cooperstown coaches are New York State certified with current certification in first aid and CPR. Each coach is responsible for guiding their student/athletes through practices, scrimmages and games appropriate to their age and level of play. These activities are conducted so that the physical welfare, health, and safety of the participants is protected and fostered. The coach teaches physical skills, moral values and proper ideals of sportsmanship, ethical conduct and fair play in accordance with the Cooperstown Athletic Philosophy.

BENEFITS OF CONDITIONING

The obvious benefit of superbly conditioned athletes is the potential for the team or individual to compete at the highest possible level. A well-conditioned team is usually a successful team. However, the real benefits of conditioning are long term. Simply, we want our student/athletes to be exercisers for life. The health benefits derived from a regular exercise program are well documented. Developing lifelong habits to improve or maintain cardiovascular endurance, muscular strength and endurance and flexibility is an important goal for anyone involved in our athletic program. With this philosophy, one can understand why practice sessions are considered as important if not more important than contests.

SPORTSMANSHIP/FAIR PLAY

Visiting team members, students and adult spectators are guests to be accorded all the courtesy and consideration that a friendly well-mannered and well-intentioned host would normally give. The visitors, in turn, are to act as invited guests, using the home school's facilities with care and respecting the rules and customs of the home school.

Officials are the proper authorities to make decisions regarding rules and their interpretation; these decisions should be accepted.

Spectators, student/athletes and coaches must recognize that their conduct plays an important role in establishing the reputation of their school and that their positive actions can relate directly to the success of their teams.

Remember that an athletic contest is only a game--not a matter of life and death for player, coach, school, fans or community.

Failure to adhere to Conduct and Expectations for Athletes, Students and Spectators could result in appropriate disciplinary action.

ATTEND THE SIGN-UP MEETING

A few weeks before each sport season, a sign-up meeting will be conducted. At this time, the coach of each sport will distribute important information that must be completed prior to the first practice session. The following documents will be distributed to all potential athletes prior to each season:

1) Athletic Code of Conduct (See Form A)

2) Sports Participation Form (See Form B)

TURN IN ALL PAPER WORK!

Sport Specific Rules

There are different requirements for certain sports depending on their nature and rules. Some are outdoors, some indoors; some are team oriented, others individual and some are both. The number of participants range widely on the different teams. Specific requirements for a sport may also exist, such as weight classes or use of special equipment.

Therefore, coaches may have specific rules for a sport in addition to the general requirements of the NYSPHSAA, Section III, and school rules. For instance, these rules may deal with such things as practice sessions, actual contests, training, and transportation. These rules should be clear to all team members and their parents. In addition, any disciplinary actions for infractions should be known beforehand.

Any athlete or parent who has questions or difficulties with the sport specific rules, of course, should communicate with the coach involved. It is hoped that in this manner athletes, parents and coaches will cooperate and work toward the continued success of our athletic program.

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