Texas A&M University-Texarkana

Student-Athlete Handbook

2018-2019

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Table of Contents

Student-Athlete Handbook

Texas A&M University-Texarkana Office of Athletics TAMUT Vision 3 TAMUT Mission 3 Athletics Vision Statement 3 Athletics Mission Statement 3 Expectations of Student-Athletes 4 Athletics Governing Associations 4 NAIA Champions of Character Initiative 4 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee 5 TAMUT Policies and Procedures 5

Office of Athletics Policies and Procedures Code of Ethics for Student-Athletes 5 Student-Athlete Responsibility 5 NAIA Rules and Regulations 6 NAIA Academic Requirements 6 Enrollment and Attendance Rules 6 Study Hours 7 Athletics Grant-In Aid 7 Release Forms 8 Class Attendance 9 Director of Athletics Honor Roll 9 Substance Abuse Policy for Student-Athletes 9 Drug Testing 10 Dress Code 11 Social Networking 12 Sportsmanship 12 Sports Medicine Program 14 Physical Examination 16 Training Room 18 Agents 18 Athletic Awards 18 Athletic Transportation 18 Practice-Related Activities 19 Financial Aid 19 Promotional Activities and Commercial Advertisements 19 Career Development 20 Hazing 20 Student-Athlete Signature Form 22

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TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-TEXARKANA OFFICE OF ATHLETICS

Athletic competition is viewed by Texas A&M University-Texarkana (TAMUT) as an integral

part of your educational experience. It is important that our athletics program operates within the

perspective of the university’s overall educational program and fits into its aims, goals, and

objectives. Although it takes an enormous commitment of time and energy to be a successful

student-athlete, the combination of athletics and academic work can be a tremendous experience

in a young person’s life.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana is committed to the goals of the National Association of

Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) and the “Champions of Character” program. TAMUT student-

athletes are expected to represent the university as ambassadors and leaders, both on campus and

within the community.

This handbook is intended to provide student-athletes with information about Eagle

Intercollegiate Athletic policies and practices, academic resources, and the university and

community. Student-athletes are expected to become familiar with the contents of the handbook

and use the resources identified.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana Vision

TAMUT, established in 1971, is where learning will take place continuously in and beyond the

confines of the traditional classroom. Its cornerstones will be innovative use of educational

technology and a commitment to an integrated educational experience that develops the whole

person. It will be a dynamic learning community where faculty engagement in teaching and

mentoring students will be the hallmark. It will be a driving force for change in student success.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana Mission

As a member of The Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M University-Texarkana is a

comprehensive regional university that provides students with academically challenging,

engaging, and rewarding educational experiences through quality teaching, scholarship, student

support services, co-curricular programming, research, and service. Through the personal

attention of our faculty and staff, students are afforded the opportunity to acquire the knowledge,

abilities, and skills to become leaders in their chosen profession and to prepare for the

opportunities of serving in a global environment.

Athletics Vision Statement

The Department of Athletics strives to build quality athletic programs, maintain a talented and

driven coaching staff, recruit student athletes who display strong character, leadership qualities, a

commitment to academics, and who have a strong desire to seek a balance between academic and

athletic requirements. The Department of Athletics seeks to be a source of pride and

representation of Texas A&M University-Texarkana, as well as the surrounding community. In

doing so, the Department of Athletics strives to successfully compete in the NAIA.

Athletics Mission Statement

The Athletic Department at Texas A&M University-Texarkana is committed to providing a

competitive, culturally diverse, and gender-equitable program that operates within the rules and

regulations of the NAIA. The department strives to recruit academically sound student-athletes

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whose desire and motivation is to graduate and develop a personal ethic that values service to

others and personal achievement through participation in leadership opportunities.

The Athletic department insists that its student-athletes, coaches, staff and administration

conduct themselves in a manner that exemplifies the NAIA Champions of Character “five core

values: respect, responsibility, integrity, servant leadership, and sportsmanship.”

Expectations of Student-Athletes

The decision to participate in intercollegiate athletics at TAMUT brings with it special academic

obligations and responsibilities in addition to those required of other college students. The

student-athlete is subject to adhere to all academic eligibility rules of the NAIA and TAMUT.

The student-athlete is, first and foremost, a student and is expected to strive for and obtain an

academic degree in four years at TAMUT. The Office of Athletics’ main interest is the general

welfare and academic achievement of every student-athlete. The student-athlete is required to

communicate on a regular basis with academic advisors and instructors regarding academic

concerns and progress, and classes missed due to athletic participation. Student-athletes are

responsible for making positive choices and decisions regarding their personal and academic life.

The student-athlete is not only representing the community and the university but ultimately

themselves. The Office of Athletics encourages each student-athlete to act as a responsible adult

in their pursuit of becoming a successful TAMUT graduate.

Athletics Governing Associations

National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA)

In the NAIA, a dedication to leadership development is balanced with sports accomplishment.

There is an expectation of ethical behavior, sportsmanship, and fairness in competition. The

NAIA provides access to athletic scholarship and leadership development.

NAIA National Office:

Mailing address and location: 1200 Grand Blvd. Kansas City, MO 64106

Phone: 816-595-8000

Intercollegiate Teams at Texas A&M University-Texarkana

Men’s Sports: Tennis, Baseball, Soccer

Women’s Sports: Soccer, Tennis, Softball

NAIA Champions of Character Initiative

Since its inception in 1937, the NAIA has been a trailblazer in issues related to career

development through sport as it relates to society. Such is the case again with the creation of the

Champions of Character Initiative. In recent years, our society has gotten away from the true

meaning of competition.

Thus, the NAIA felt it appropriate to re-establish this meaning at the present time with its

member institutions, coaches and players serving as examples, advocates and most importantly,

“Champions of Character.”

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Student-athletes, coaches and administrators will be expected to model this initiative by:

• Respecting opponents, officials, teammates, coaches and the game itself

• Taking responsibility for their own actions in all areas of their lives

• Having the integrity to stand by their word

• Providing servant leadership where they serve others, while striving to be both a personal

and team leader

• Being an example of sportsmanship by holding themselves to the highest standards of fair

play

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee

The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a forum for student-athletes to have input

on various issues involving athletic policies and practices, concerns of their teammates, and

issues raised during the year by the director of athletics. Within TAMUT, a student-athlete is

selected from each of the sports to represent their teammates at scheduled meetings throughout

each school year. This enables the student-athletes of TAMUT to have an active voice within the

NAIA and TAMUT legislative and administrative processes.

Texas A&M University-Texarkana Policies and Procedures

Student-athletes are subject to the same academic, financial, and non-academic rules and

regulations as the student body. Student-athletes are encouraged to refer to the 2017-2018

TAMUT Student Handbook for specific rights, policies, and procedures.

OFFICE OF ATHLETICS POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

Code of Ethics for Student-Athletes

The purpose of intercollegiate athletics is to provide an opportunity for student-athletes to

develop their potential as a skilled athlete in an educational setting. Student-athletes will be

looked upon as role models, particularly by young children, and it is important that personal

conduct be above reproach at all times. Public exposure in the competitive arena and the media

make student-athletes one of the most visible groups in the community. Student-athletes are

often highlighted, placing one in a public position, which requires exemplary behavior. TAMUT

student-athletes are responsible for their own behavior. They are expected to obey the laws,

rules, and regulations of local law enforcement and if violated, to be prepared for the penalties

that may be imposed. Behavior has an impact on the reputation of the athletics department and

the attitude the community may take toward the athletics program. Conduct will be closely

scrutinized in the classroom, in competition, and while traveling.

Student-Athlete Responsibility

Student-athletes are subject to additional NAIA, TAMUT, the Office of Athletics, and team

policies during their tenure at TAMUT. Student-athletes are responsible to acquaint themselves

with the rules and regulations of each unit and when concerns or questions arise, take the

initiative and get answers. TAMUT and the Office of Athletics will have orientation sessions to

familiarize student-athletes with major policies and procedures during the fall of each academic

year.

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NAIA Rules and Regulations

Each year, prior to participation in intercollegiate competition, a team meeting will be held, and

athletes will receive a copy of the "Summary of NAIA Regulations." Student-athletes will be

required to do the following:

• Submit information relating to eligibility.

• Give written consent to disclose education records to an authorized representative.

• Give written permission to be tested for drugs.

Failure to complete and sign the statement annually will result in ineligibility for participation in

all intercollegiate competition.

NAIA Academic Requirements

If a student-athlete does not meet NAIA requirements, he or she will not be eligible to participate

in intercollegiate athletics. Therefore, these requirements are critical to your continued athletic

participation. If you have questions, please ask your coach or contact the office of the Director of

Athletics.

Enrollment, Attendance, and Progress Rules

All student-athletes must meet minimum academic, athletic and conduct standards in order to be

eligible to participate on any intercollegiate team at TAMUT. The following is a checklist which

will help insure your eligibility to participate in intercollegiate sports. If you have any questions,

please see the office of the Director of Athletics.

Incoming Freshmen

An entering freshman student must be a graduate of an accredited high school or be

accepted as a regular student in good standing as defined by the enrolling institution.

An entering freshman student must meet two of the three entry level requirements:

1. A minimum score of 18 on the ACT or 860 on the SAT.

2. An overall high school grade point average of 2.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale.

3. Graduate in the upper half of the student’s high school graduating class.

Transfer Students

If you are a transfer student from another college, see the office of the Director of

Athletics with all previous college transcripts.

Enrollment

In order to participate in intercollegiate competition, you must be enrolled in a

minimum of 12 credit hours during your season. Do not drop or withdraw from classes

without the Athletics Academic Coordinator.

Terms of Attendance

Student athletes must use their athletic eligibility (four seasons of competition per sport)

within the first ten semesters of full time enrollment. Enrollment in 12 hours or more is

considered a full time semester for NAIA eligibility rules. If you withdraw from a course

and it shows up on the transcript as a “W,” that will count as “0” hours earned for that

course during the term.

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Summer Attendance

Summer school attendance does not count towards your ten full time semesters of

enrollment, but can be used to satisfy eligibility requirements. A maximum of 12 summer

hours can be added to the previous full-time semester hours in order to satisfy the 24-

hour rule.

Progress Rules

Incoming freshman must pass nine hours in order to compete during the 2nd semester of

the freshman year. To be eligible for a second season of competition, 24 credit hours

must have been accumulated during the previous two-full time semesters, for a third

season of competition the student athlete needs to have accumulated 48 credit hours, and

72 credit hours to compete in a 4th season of competition with 48 hours going towards a

major.

GPA Rule

Upon entering a third season through your final season of competition, you must have at

least a 2.0 institutional GPA in order to be eligible to compete.

Repeat Classes

A repeated course which has been previously passed and counted toward the 9 hour, 12

hour, or 24 hour rule may not be used again to satisfy any of the progress rules for future

eligibility purposes. (If you pass a class with a “D” and retake the course, it will count as

hours earned for the 24-hour rule one time. If you retake a class which was previously

failed with an “F” and pass the course, then those hours will satisfy the 24-hour rule.

Freshman/Transfer Required Academic Meetings

All freshman and transfer students must meet with an Athletics staff member every two

weeks throughout the academic year. The meetings will consist of organizational and

time management strategies along with an academic review and course assessments.

Study Hours

Each Student Athlete is required to fulfill study hour requirements based on institutional

GPA and/or term GPA depending on academic assessment risk. The following are

requirements for study hours:

• NEW Student Athletes: 5 hours per week

• RETURNING Student Athletes: Below 2.3 GPA: 5 hours per week

• RETURNING Student Athletes: 2.3-2.25 institutional GPA: 3 hours per week

• RETURNING Student Athletes: 2.3-2.75 institutional GPA: 2 hours per week

Coaches may request additional study hours for their team, however this should

be discussed prior to the first day of the semester to determine the best course of

action for the individual student –athlete and their success plan. Coaches will

receive weekly study hour completion reports. Questions regarding the report

should be directed to the athletic academic advisor.

Financial Aid/ Athletics Grant-In-Aid

Financial aid is available for all citizens and or eligible non-citizens who apply. By filing the

Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), you have taken the first step towards

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receiving financial aid. Types of financial aid include: Pell Grants, State University Grants

(SUG), Supplemental Education Opportunity Grants (SEOG), Stafford Loans, Parent PLUS

Loans, Perkins Loans, Federal Work Study, and academic, athletic, and need based

scholarships.

The FAFSA is available online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. By taking 30-45 minutes to complete

your application, you significantly enhance your opportunities to fund your college education.

Athletics grant-in-aid awards are recommended by each coach, approved by the Director of

Athletics and issued by the Financial Aid office. The award will be categorized as the Athletic

Grant in Aid (athletic scholarships).

If you received an athletic scholarship, you understand that your aid will not be increased,

reduced, or cancelled during the period of its award on the basis of your athletic ability,

performance, or contribution to your team’s success; because of an injury or illness that

prevents you from participating in athletics; or for any other athletic reason. However, should

an injury or illness prevent you from participating in athletics, you will be expected to assist

the athletic department in other operational activities (i.e., coaching and /or support staff

duties).

You are aware that the amount of this aid may be immediately reduced or cancelled during

the term of award if you:

• Become ineligible for intercollegiate competition (for example, by carrying less that

12 credit hours).

• Give false information on your application, letter of intent, medical history report or

financial aid agreement.

• Engage in serious misconduct that brings disciplinary action from this institution.

• Voluntarily withdraw from the sport at any time for personal reasons.

Student-athletes who have a balance on their accounts must be prepared to pay prior to

registration. Pre-registration fees are to be paid on a date announced by the Business Office.

Please note that students will be dropped from all classes if fees are not paid on time.

Release Forms

All release forms must come from the Director of Athletics after a one-on-one meeting has taken

place between the coach and student-athlete. These forms will be sent from institution to

institution via email correspondence for documentation purposes.

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Class Attendance

Student-athletes should take into consideration practice and game schedules when scheduling

classes. Student-athletes are required to attend all classes unless an absence is due to athletic

competition or travel. Student-athletes are not permitted to miss class for practices or any other

practice-related activities. Punctuality, respectfulness, and preparedness are all mandatory for

TAMUT student-athletes when attending classes. Please note: student-athletes are expected to

communicate with their professors to know what policies each individual instructor follows for

dealing with student absences, as well as reminding them of the day/s they are to miss class

throughout the semester. Additionally, it is the student-athletes’ responsibility to make

arrangements ahead of time, and to make up missed tests, assignments, etc.

Team Rules

Student-athletes have a responsibility to adhere to team rules as provided by the head coach and

the Office of Athletics. These rules are important and can affect the status of a student-athlete,

i.e., suspension or dismissal from team. All decisions directly related to team performance, i.e.,

playing time, position, traveling squad, training, curfew, appearance, and conduct are the

responsibility of the head coach.

Director of Athletics Honor Roll

The Director of Athletics’ Honor Roll consists of student-athletes who have a semester GPA of

3.1 or higher. These student-athletes will be recognized for their academic performance each

semester.

Substance Abuse Policy for Student-Athletes

The use of controlled substances (narcotics, marijuana, stimulants, etc.), and the abuse of alcohol

by student-athletes, will adversely affect their academic performance, athletic achievements and

personal well-being. Student-athletes who abuse controlled substances put themselves, their

teammates, and the program at risk.

For these reasons, TAMUT Athletics does not tolerate substance abuse, the use of any substance

banned by the NAIA, underage drinking, or the inappropriate use of alcohol. Participation in

intercollegiate athletics at TAMUT is optional; however, student-athletes who refuse to consent

to drug screening under this policy, or refuse to participate in substance abuse prevention

educational programs, will not be eligible to participate in intercollegiate athletics at TAMUT.

The Office of Athletics is committed to enhancing the life of every student-athlete who comes to

our campus and chooses to participate in our athletic program. TAMUT Athletics believes that a

strong substance abuse prevention education and a drug-screening program are essential in the

protection of student-athletes from the harmful effects of drug and alcohol abuse.

Alcohol

Alcoholism is a progressive disorder that often leads to serious physical and

psychological illnesses, as well as unacceptable social behavior. Any student-athlete who

chooses to consume alcohol will be held accountable for any alcohol-related incident in

which he/she is involved, whether there are legal implications or not. If a student-athlete

is involved in an alcohol-related incident with legal implications under campus, state, or

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Federal laws, he or she will be subjected to the same or similar sanctions as those for a

positive drug test. If a student-athlete is involved in an obvious alcohol-related incident

which is without legal implications, the Head Coach, Director of Athletics, and Head

Athletic Trainer will determine if the circumstances warrant counseling intervention

and/or any additional sanctions.

Tobacco

NAIA legislation prohibits the use of tobacco products by all athletes, coaches, athletic

trainers, managers, and officials, in all sports during practice and competition.

Drug Testing

Drug testing will be conducted on a selective and random basis, usually with unannounced tests.

Student-athletes may be subjected to testing during the entrance physical screening, or at any

time throughout the academic year. Testing may include team testing, pre-season testing, or post-

season/championship testing. A student-athlete who refuses to participate in a drug screening,

or fails to report for a scheduled screening within the allotted time, will be considered

medically ineligible. Procedures and sanctions will be consistent with those of a positive test.

Sanctions for Positive Test Results

Any attempt to manipulate the results, (i.e bringing in a foreign sample) will result

in an automatic disqualification from any and all TAMUT Athletic programs for

ONE full calendar year. This includes the forfeiture of any athletic aid and/or work

study positions.

In the event that a true sample tests positive at the laboratory, the lab will notify the

Athletic Trainer. That notification will include the name of the person with the positive

test, as well as the substance category that was violated. That person will in turn notify

the Director of Athletics with the same information. At that time the following sanctions

will be applied:

First Offense

The student-athlete will be notified of a positive test in a meeting with the

Director of Athletics and the respective Head Coach. The student-athlete will be

considered medically ineligible, and will not be permitted to participate in

practices or competition for a period of time set by the Director of Athletics. The

period of ineligibility begins on the day of the official notification and lasts for a

minimum period of 21 calendar days, after which the student-athlete must be re-

tested with negative results. The Director of Athletics will consider

recommendations of the respective coach, the recommendation of the Head

Athletic Trainer and any other relevant circumstances. After due consideration,

the Director of Athletics has the options to discontinue scholarship assistance,

extend the period of ineligibility up to a period of one year, to require

participation in an approved treatment or counseling program, undergo mandatory

health assessments, or any combination thereof. In addition, once a student-athlete

tests positive for a banned substance, random selection will no longer apply, and

the student-athlete can expect to be selected for participation in drug screening

more frequently than other student-athletes. Before the student-athlete can regain

eligibility the student-athlete must be retested with negative findings.

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During the period of suspension the athlete may practice at the coach’s

discretion but may not represent the university in ANY competition and may

NOT travel with the team.

Second Offense

A student-athlete who tests positive for a second time during his or her eligibility

will be immediately and permanently expelled from intercollegiate athletics at

TAMUT. This includes loss of all athletic-related financial aid. TAMUT will NOT

grant a release for the student-athlete to transfer to another four year institution.

The unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensation, possession or use of a controlled

substance is prohibited on the premises of TAMUT. If a student‐athlete is arrested in

connection with a drug‐related crime, he/she will be immediately suspended from all

athletic activity. Reinstatement will be at the discretion of the Director of Athletics.

Appeals Process

If a student feels the results of the tests are in error, they may request the split part of the

sample be retested at the same laboratory that performed the original test at their expense. If

the student-athlete feels the sanctions are unduly harsh or unfair due to unusual

circumstances, they may appeal in writing, to the Director of Athletics. The Director of

Athletics will appoint an appeals committee and the student will present his/her case to the

committee. The committee will notify the student in writing of their decision within one week

of the appeal. The student-athlete will remain ineligible during the appeal process.

Screening and Testing Procedures

The following procedures have been established to provide a safe and secure program for

screening TAMUT student-athletes for substance abuse.

• Drug screening will be coordinated by the TAMUT athletic office and the athletic

trainer, which will ensure specimen collection procedures are strictly followed.

• Notification of a pending drug screening will be made to an athlete's coach, who will

notify their respective student-athletes that they have been selected. The student-

athletes must report to the testing site at the assigned time. Once notified, failure for

any reason to report to the testing site and within the timeframe will automatically

be considered the same as a positive test and will be treated as such.

• Student-athletes will be required to present a picture I.D. at the time of the

screening.

• Urine specimens will be taken under direct observation in order to prevent specimen

tampering and/or substitution. Any attempt to adulterate or manipulate the urine

specimen will constitute a positive test and expulsion from TAMUT Athletics will

result which will include the loss of athletic aid.

• The specimen will be divided at the lab with a portion reserved for re-testing if the

initial testing of the specimen is either positive or suspect, or if the student- athlete

sees the need to appeal the findings.

• At the time of drug screening, the student-athlete will have an opportunity to

disclose the names and/or types of any medically-prescribed or over-the-counter

substances they might have been taking that may affect the results of the screening.

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• The student-athletes must remain at the collection site until excused by the

lab personnel.

• If the laboratory determines that any banned substances are present in the

sample, the Director of Athletics will be confidentially notified through the

Director of Sports Medicine of the identity of the athlete with the positive

test.

• The Director of Athletics will arrange a meeting with the student-athlete and

the respective head coach. No other person will be notified unless the

Director of Athletics deems such a notification is necessary to protect the

student-athlete's health and interests.

Dress Code

TAMUT Intercollegiate Athletics places emphasis on cleanliness, neatness, appropriate

attire, respectable appearance, and appropriate personal hygiene. As personal appearance is

a direct reflection on you and TAMUT, take an interest in how you appear, especially when

traveling with your team. The head coach will let you know their expectations of

appropriate dress. You should always exercise good judgment concerning the

appropriateness of your attire. You are a highly visible representative of TAMUT and thus

are responsible for using good judgment in your personal appearance.

Social Networking

TAMUT does not seek to monitor the IT uses of its students and employees, including the

content of social networking sites (i.e. Facebook). As a matter of policy, TAMUT does not

actively monitor the content of social networking sites. However, content found on the

Internet (Facebook/Instagram, blogs, etc.) that violates university policy, including the

Student Handbook, will be subject to disciplinary action.

Student-athletes should not post pictures on Facebook, or elsewhere, showing alcohol or

drug involvement, nor have items on any page which reflects negatively on their team, the

coach, the Office of Athletics or the university. Student-athletes doing so could face

suspension, dismissal, and the loss of athletic scholarship.

Sportsmanship

TAMUT is committed to ensuring that fans, spectators, staff, and student-athletes behave in

a sportsmanlike manner, especially at intercollegiate athletic contests. Unsportsmanlike

conduct shall subject the individual to disciplinary action, which can include removal from

the playing facility or area. Additionally it is our goal to ensure (a) both teams in a contest

be allowed to prepare and to compete in a safe environment, (b) the contest be conducted in

a manner which discourages spectators or other unofficial persons from disrupting or

interfering with the event; and (c) visiting spectators be permitted to support their team as a

group, free from interference and intimidation from home fans.

TAMUT Intercollegiate Athletics personnel reserve the right to remove any person from an

athletic contest if there is reasonable suspicion the person is a threat to the health and safety

of other spectators, student-athletes, personnel, coaches, officials, or themselves. Examples

of unsportsmanlike conduct subject to disciplinary action include but are not limited to:

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• Striking or attempting to strike or otherwise physically abuse an official, opposing coach,

staff, administrator, spectator, student, or student-athlete.

• Intentionally, or with careless disregard for one’s conduct, inciting participants or

spectators to violent or abusive action.

• Using obscene gestures or profane or unduly provocative language or action, whether or

not directed toward an official, staff, administrator, student, coach, or spectator.

• Publicly and unduly criticizing a game official, game personnel, another college or

university, a student-athlete, or personnel from another college or university.

Red River Athletic Conference Sportsmanship Policy

Read the Champions of Character pledge before every game/match/contest for all sports.

Include the Champions of Character pledge in the game program when possible.

The RRAC shall abide by the NAIA Handbook, Article VI, section B, item 7. It shall be the

responsibility of each institution to ensure that all individuals employed by, or directly associated

with the athletic program of that institution conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike manner when

representing their institution, especially at intercollegiate athletic contests.

Disciplinary action shall be assessed to individuals exhibiting unsportsmanlike conduct. The

institution with which the offending individual is associated may also be subject to disciplinary

action if it is found that the institution's policies, action, or failure to act substantially contributed to

the individual's misconduct. All unsportsmanlike conduct will be directed to the President of the

University.

Violation: Any individual; who physically or verbally abuses an official, coach, player or

spectator. The penalty for such a violation shall be ejection or removal from the athletic

event. Additional violations may be suspension or being banned from attending contests, as the

conference commissioner deems appropriate with the approval of the Council of Presidents.

Public Reprimand: The individual's name and/or school name may appear on the RRAC

website under Public Reprimand or Ejections (?)

Acts of Unsportsmanlike Conduct and Individual Penalties Acts of unsportsmanlike conduct shall

include, but not be limited to:

1. Any person who commits a violation or who intentionally incites participants or spectators

to violent or abusive action shall be subject to suspension or banning from the

facility. Additional suspensions may be assessed by the conference commissioner with the

approval of the Council of Presidents

2. Any person, who uses obscene gestures or profane or unduly provocative language or

action toward officials, opponents, or spectators, shall be subject to ejection for the first

offense, and subject to possible suspension for any additional contests as deemed

appropriate by the conference commissioner with the approval of the Council of Presidents.

3. Any person who engages in the recruitment of enrolled or non-enrolled student-athletes

shall follow the policies as outlined in Article II, Section D of the NAIA

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Handbook. Violation of any part of the recruitment policy shall cause an immediate

investigation by the National Conduct and Ethics Committee for appropriate action.

4. The use of any music or language that is deemed inappropriate for student-athletes and

spectators at athletic events will be directed to the president of that university.

5. It is a violation for any coach to play an ineligible player; this should be reported

immediately to the conference eligibility chair for processing as outlined in the NAIA

Handbook.

6. A violation by an institution or by institution personnel who are not participants in a contest

shall be subject to a public reprimand and other action as deemed appropriate by the

commissioner and approved by the Presidents.

It is the responsibility of the offending institution to provide written notification to its

commissioner of any incidents of misconduct during a contest, including ejections, suspension or

banning from a contest, within five days of the incident. Any coach or student-athlete ejected on

one or more occasions while representing an NAIA member institution in competition shall be

subject automatically to the following penalties:

1. Suspension for the next athletic event after the coach or student-athlete is ejected for the

first time (in one sport) in a single season. A coach or student-athlete ejected for fighting as

reported by the game official shall be automatically suspended for one additional contest.

2. Suspension for the next two athletic events if a coach or student-athlete accumulates two

ejections (in one sport) in a single season. This includes post-season play and may carry

over to the following year depending on when the ejection occurs. A coach or student-

athlete ejected for fighting, as reported by the game official, shall be automatically

suspended for one additional contest.

3. Ineligibility for the remainder of all regular-season and post-season participation if a coach

or student-athlete accumulates three ejections (in one sport) in a single season. Should the

third ejection occur in either of the last two contests of the year, the coach or returning

student-athlete will be suspended for the first two contests of the following year.

Inappropriate acts by Administrators, Coaches or Players shall be handled by the Commissioner

using the following guidelines, until the matter is resolved.

An informal phone call from the commissioner shall be made to the coach and administrator

requesting correction or attention to the matter.

A formal letter from the commissioner to the coach, administrator and/or athlete, detailing

examples and requesting correction or attention to the matter. This letter will be copied to the

offending party's supervisor and the president of the offending part's institution.

There is no appeal for an ejection. Suspensions may be appealed. This appeal may be sent to the

commissioner's office for review. The appeal will follow the bylaws and the constitution process.

Sports Medicine Program

The sports medicine staff works in a cooperative effort with health care providers and student-

athletes to provide quality health care throughout the academic year. The athletic training staff

will provide student athletes with the basic health care needs and direct them to the appropriate

team physician when referral is necessary.

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Office of Athletics Responsibility

The NAIA rules state that the Office of Athletics is responsible for medical services

administered to student-athletes who are injured in a practice or game that was under the

TAMUT coaches' supervision.

The word "injury" applies only to those ailments that are caused by the participation in a

supervised practice or a game. Ailments such as bronchitis, tonsillitis, or influenza are

some examples of medical problems for which the Office of Athletics cannot be

monetarily responsible. Participation in sports will not cause conditions such as these,

and according to NAIA rules, we cannot be responsible for costs associated with their

remediation.

We are permitted to administer medical aid during the student-athlete's competitive

season and out-of-season practice, but only for those ailments that are sports related and

occur in a supervised practice or during designated contests.

Health Insurance

All student-athletes are required to have primary insurance before being permitted to

participate on any athletic team.

Medical Bills

The following is an account of normal procedures to be followed in the event that

medical bills are incurred as a result of athletic participation:

• If the athletic trainer decides that medical referral is indicated due to an athletic

injury, an appointment will be made for the student-athlete with the appropriate

physician or health care provider. The student-athlete will take a referral sheet

from the athletic trainer authorizing treatment, as well as the athlete's personal

insurance information., the physician's office staff will use that information to

file bills directly with the student’s/parent’s insurance company.

• If the athletic trainer decides that medical referral is indicated due to a non-

athletic injury or illness, an appointment will be made for the student-athlete with

the appropriate physician or healthcare provider at the student’s request and will

not be covered by athletic insurance.

• After the insurance company reviews the charges (usually 4-6 weeks), they will

send to the policyholder an "Explanation of Benefits" (E.O.B.), which details

specific amounts that are covered and for which they have issued payments.

• When the E.O.B. is received by the policyholder, a copy should be taken to the

Athletics Business Manager as soon as possible. The athletic department will then

file claims related to athletic participation with TAMUT athletics insurance,

which will normally cover all of the "excess.”

Other important points to remember

Athletic injury bills are not paid automatically, and cooperation on everyone's part is

necessary in order to minimize confusion and ensure all bills are paid in a timely manner.

If any bills have not been paid within two months of the injury, the student or parent

should check with their insurance company to make sure all necessary documents have

been submitted, and that payment is being considered. Bills submitted to TAMUT

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insurance more than 52 weeks after the date of injury, will not be considered for

payment, and will become the full responsibility of the athlete and/or parents.

TAMUT insurance covers only athletic injuries received while participating on behalf of

TAMUT. Any injury or illness outside of supervised athletic participation (e.g., colds,

gynecological problems, injury from intramurals, etc.) will be the responsibility of the

individual student-athlete. Proof of personal insurance is mandatory and lack of personal

insurance will preclude participation.

Only charges for medical services that have been pre-approved by the head athletic

trainer will be submitted for payment by the Office of Athletics.

Physical Examination

All athletes must have an approved physical examination rendered by a licensed doctor prior to

any athletic participation at TAMUT. The orthopedic portion of the examination must be

rendered by a Medical Doctor or a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine. All potential athletes will be

provided an opportunity for a complete physical examination, performed by the medical staff at a

nominal charge; however, this must be completed at the assigned date and time. Otherwise a

charge for the examination will be incurred which will be the responsibility of the student-

athlete. Should the pre-participation examination reveal a need for medical history, tests, x-rays,

treatments, or therapy etc., in order to clear an athlete for participation, TAMUT cannot be

responsible for any charges incurred.

If for any reason there should be any question regarding physical qualifications for competition,

the team physician will be charged with making the final decision as to when, or if a prospective

student-athlete is physically suitable for participation.

Training Room

The purpose of the training room and its staff is to provide for the prevention, care, treatment,

and rehabilitation of athletically-related injuries for all student-athletes. All training room rules

and procedures are formulated to serve athletes in the best possible manner, while allowing them

to receive the best care available. Outlined here are general guidelines to be followed in the event

injuries occur. Specific procedures regarding training room usage will be posted in the training

room. Training room usage is a privilege that can be revoked if all procedures are not followed.

For that reason, we encourage you to ask questions so that you are clear on the important role

that the training staff has in your athletic career at the university.

Injury Reporting Procedures

If a student-athlete receives any injury (dental injuries included) as a result of

participation in a supervised practice or contest, it should be reported immediately to the

athletics training staff so a thorough evaluation can be made. Some injuries may be

unnoticed until after training room hours. If that happens, you should report the injury to

the training staff as early as possible the following day. Early intervention into the injury

process can yield an early return, while the opposite can also be true. Medical bills

incurred for athletic injuries which have not been reported in a timely manner will

become the responsibility of the student-athlete.

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The training staff maintains and documents reports regarding illnesses, injuries,

evaluations and progress notes for each student-athlete. The training staff makes

decisions regarding activity restrictions and communicates those restrictions to coaches

and players daily.

Emergency Treatment

In the event of sudden or unexpected illness or injury, call the training room. If no

answer, call your coach. If no answer and your condition is severe, report to

HEALTHCARE EXPRESS on Richmond Road.

NOTE: TAMUT athletics insurance covers athletic injuries ONLY!!

Injury

The athletic training staff, in conjunction with the team physician, is responsible for

judgments regarding the amount and type of participation in which an athlete may

engage. All medical referrals and other treatments must be coordinated and approved

in advance by the athletic training staff (HEALTHCARE EXPRESS) and athletic

administration. Only the athletic training staff is authorized to arrange the necessary

appointments with consulting physicians. Any injury that is not reported to the athletic

training staff at HEALTHCARE EXPRESS and is seen at another medical facility will

be the financial responsibility of the student athlete. Even though an athlete may be

injured, practice sessions must be attended unless released by both the head coach and

head trainer.

Treatment & Rehabilitation Programs

All treatment and rehabilitation activities will be supervised by the athletic training staff

and team physician. In order for an athlete to return from an injury as quickly and safely

as possible, it is necessary that they receive treatment as directed by the athletic training

staff. The training staff will provide regular information to the coaching staff regarding

the progress of student-athletes, as well as compliance with treatment and rehabilitation

regimens. Coaches and trainers generally view missed appointments, tardiness, or non-

compliance with treatment regimens in an unfavorable manner. Coaches will be notified

each time that an athlete is late or absent from treatment or rehabilitation sessions.

Medical Second-Opinion Policy (Medical Referral Policy)

The sports medicine staff realizes the importance of an athlete feeling comfortable when

dealing with a health care specialist. If the student-athlete, spouse, or parent feels that a

second opinion is in order, or if an insurance company dictates that a second opinion be

sought, the head athletic trainer will arrange an appointment with a second physician as

soon as possible.

Bills incurred for examination by the second physician will be dealt with in the same

manner as charges from the team physician. Should the student-athlete or family

members prefer to seek medical care from other specialists, TAMUT will not be

compelled to:

• Assume financial responsibility for any charges incurred;

• Render any follow-up medical care;

• Allow the student-athlete to participate until the following conditions have been

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met:

1. TAMUT has received a detailed written report from the attending

health care provider that releases the student-athlete to participate.

2. Student-athlete has passed a pre-participation physical examination by

the team physician and athletics training staff; and

3. Student-athlete has demonstrated full skills and other physical

capabilities necessary for full participation in the particular sport as

approved by the athletics training staff.

Agents

Should a student-athlete and or parents be contacted by an agent, instruct the agent to contact the

Office of Athletics. Under no circumstances can a student-athlete enter into an agreement with

an agent (either orally or in writing) to represent them in future sport negotiations. If the student-

athlete does enter into an agreement with an agent while they still have eligibility left, the

student-athlete will be declared ineligible for all NAIA sports (not just the sport for which an

agreement was arranged).

Athletic Awards

Awards received during the academic year shall be in accordance with the NAIA Bylaws and

their subsequent types of awards. Problems arise when student-athletes accept awards when they

either compete on their own or outside of the school's academic year. For example, when a

student competes in an event while not enrolled as a regular student during the academic year,

the award shall conform to the regulations of the recognized amateur organization(s) associated

with the event.

During the academic year, if a student-athlete competes in an individual event (not a team event,

which is expressly prohibited) and thus counts the event as a part of the allotted matches or

contests, the student-athlete cannot accept any gift certificates and/or merchandise items that

During the academic year, if a student-athlete competes in an individual event (not a team event,

which is expressly prohibited) and thus counts the event as a part of the allotted matches or

contests, the student-athlete cannot accept any gift certificates and/or merchandise items that

cannot be properly personalized. The only thing a student-athlete may receive during the

academic year is a trophy.

Note: At no time can a student-athlete receive any of the following:

• Cash or equivalent.

• Country club or sports club membership.

• Transfer of the non-permissible awards, i.e. cannot turn the certificate over to a

friend, parent, etc.

Athletic Transportation

Each student-athlete is required to travel with their teammates to and from all activities. Prior

written permission must be obtained from the head coach for any exceptions to this policy. This

process is necessary because of legal and liability issues designed to protect the student-athlete

and TAMUT.

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The transportation mode for TAMUT athletic teams is either charter bus or van. It is prohibited

for a student-athlete to drive any vehicles that transport team members.

Practice Related Activities

Practice is:

An activity organized and/or directed by an identified member of the coaching staff of that sport

in which appropriate equipment is used or instruction and/or evaluation of the athlete takes place.

An alumni contest is considered to be an “in-house” event and shall be treated the same as an

internal practice.

Practice is not:

A conditioning and weight-training activity that does not utilize equipment associated with a

sport. A college activities class involving the teaching of sports skills that is open to all students

will not be considered practice.

Financial Aid

Athletic Scholarships

All student-athletes who received institutional athletics aid during the previous academic year

will receive a letter from the Financial Aid Office stating the status of their scholarship, i.e.,

renewal, non-renewal, or revision to the original grant-in-aid. Upon receipt of this acceptance

letter, the student-athlete must sign and return it to the Financial Aid Office.

Renewal of Financial Aid

TAMUT shall promptly notify in writing each student-athlete who received an award the

previous academic year and who has eligibility remaining in the sport in which financial aid was

awarded the previous academic year whether the grant has been renewed, reduced, or not

renewed for the ensuing academic year. Notification of financial aid renewals, reductions, and

non-renewals must come from the financial aid office and not from the office of athletics.

The process of applying for financial aid may seem complicated, but the Financial Aid staff will

work with each student to help complete the process. All financial aid programs are under one of

these four categories: grants, loans, scholarships and work-study availability. You are expected to

submit all required applications and support documents prior to the published financial aid

application deadline for the chosen enrollment term. Failure to do so may result in incurring your

own educational expenses until your financial aid can be processed.

Financial Aid from Outside Sources

Any type of outside grant or scholarship received MUST be:

• Reported to the respective head coach. Failure to do so could jeopardize the team's eligibility as

well as the student-athlete's eligibility.

• Reported to the Director of Financial Aid at TAMUT.

NOTE: A student-athlete may receive financial aid from anyone upon whom the student-athlete

is naturally or legally dependent, i.e., parents and legal guardians.

Loans and Pell Grants

Several loans and grants could be available. Check with the Financial Aid Office for more

information.

NOTE: Due to early deadlines of loans and grants, it is recommended to apply as early as

possible.

Promotional Activities, Commercial Advertisements

Student-athletes are prohibited from participating in promotional activities and commercial

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advertisements. Under NO circumstances can a student-athlete promote the sale of a commercial

product. Any questions regarding these activities should be directed to the Director of Athletics.

Career Development

Our Mission is to Educate, Prepare, and Assist Students, and Alumni for Career Success!

Career Development is available to you as a student and alumni. We offer career related programs

and services to assist you throughout your college career and beyond! Please call 903-334-6707 to

schedule an appointment!

Undecided on a major? We offer Career Counseling to help you determine career and education

goals as well as personal development needs by using TypeFocus. Web-based assessment: (Work

Interest – Skills – Values – Personality)

Career Development offers a variety of events, open to all students & alumni, throughout the

year!

Career / Internship Fairs • Resume • Interviewing • AceTalk Workshop Series • Etiquette Dinners •

Networking Events

Visit www.hireaneagle.com to learn about:

Jobs: Full and part-time opportunities on and off campus

Internships: Paid or nonpaid informal or formal internships to provide practical experience for

beginners in an occupation or profession

Eagle Job Shadowing: One day job shadowing professionals in your desired career field

Career/Internship Fairs: Meet employers and recruiters

Hazing

Hazing is a criminal violation under Texas Education Code 51 Chapter 37 Section 37.152. The

Texas Legislature enacted the anti-hazing law in 1987. A person can be found guilty of

criminal conduct for hazing, encouraging hazing, permitting hazing, or having knowledge of

the planning of hazing incidents and failing to report in writing his/her knowledge to the

Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs.

Hazing on the part of students, faculty or staff is strictly forbidden, whether on or off

campus. Texas A&M University-Texarkana students are expected to be partners in fulfilling

the mission of the University by creating and maintaining standards within student groups,

teams and organizations that are conducive to personal growth and development. The

University will take disciplinary action against individuals and/or groups who are involved in

hazing activities. Such disciplinary action may be taken independently of state or local

criminal actions.

Definition

State law defines hazing as “any intentional, knowing or reckless act, occurring on or off the

campus of an educational institution, by one person alone or acting with others, directed against

a student, that endangers the mental or physical health or safety of a student for the purpose of

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pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, or maintaining membership in

an organization whose members are or include students at an educational institution. The term

includes but is not limited to:

1. Any type of physical brutality such as whipping, beating, striking, branding, electronic

shocking, placing of a harmful substance on the body, or similar activity;

2. Any type of physical activity such as sleep deprivation, exposure to the elements,

confinement in a small space, calisthenics, or other activity that subjects the student to an

3. unreasonable risk of harm or that adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of

the student;

4. Any activity involving consumption of a food, liquid, alcoholic beverage, liquor, drug, or

other substance which subjects the student to an unreasonable risk or harm or which

adversely affects the mental or physical health or safety of the student;

5. Any activity that intimidates or threatens the student with ostracism that subjects the student

to extreme mental stress, shame, humiliation, or that adversely affects the mental health or

dignity of the student or discourages the student from entering or remaining registered in an

educational institution, or that may reasonably be expected to cause a student to leave the

organization or the institution rather than submit to acts described in this subsection; and

6. Any activity that causes or requires the student to perform a duty or task which involves a

violation of the Penal Code or Code of Student Conduct.

Personal Hazing Offense

A person commits a hazing offense if the person:

• Engages in hazing

• Solicits, encourages, directs, aids, or attempts to aid another in engaging in hazing

• Intentionally, knowingly or recklessly permits hazing to occur

• Has firsthand knowledge of the planning of a specific hazing incident involving a student in

an educational institution, or has firsthand knowledge that a specific hazing incident has

occurred, and knowingly fails to report said knowledge in writing to the Asst. Vice President of

Student Affairs office, Assistant Director of Student Life or University Police Department for

appropriate disciplinary action.

•

University Disciplinary Rules

The law does not restrict the right of A&M-Texarkana to enforce its own rules against hazing,

and the University will take disciplinary action for conduct that constitutes hazing regardless of

any criminal charges filed under the state hazing laws.

• Hazing with or without the consent of the student is prohibited by A&M-Texarkana. Both

the individual(s) inflicting the hazing and the person submitting to the hazing are subject to

disciplinary action.

• The fact that an individual consented to or acquiesced in a hazing activity is not a defense to

prosecution of an offense under the hazing law, and neither will it be under the University’s

disciplinary process.

• Initiations or activities by organizations may not include any feature which is dangerous,

harmful or degrading to the student.

• A violation of this prohibition renders both the organization and participating individuals

subject to discipline.

Disciplinary Actions

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The disciplinary actions assigned/determined in a particular case will vary depending on the

nature of the conduct involved. Possible actions range from a verbal warning to expulsion from

the university.

Immunity from Prosecution Available

In an effort to encourage reporting of hazing incidents, the court may grant immunity from civil

or criminal prosecution to any person reporting a specific hazing incident involving a student in

an educational institution to the Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs or other appropriate

official at A&M-Texarkana. A person reporting in bad faith or with malice is not protected by

this section.

Disciplined Organizations

In accordance with requirements of the Texas Education Code, Section 51.936(c), the following

organization(s) have been disciplined for hazing and/or convicted for hazing as of the last three

years when the sanction was complete.

There have been no organizations disciplined for hazing in the last three years.

To report an act of hazing, please contact the Office of Student Life at (903) 223-3116 or the

Assistant Vice President of Student Affairs at (903) 223-3062.

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Student-Athlete Acknowledgment of Responsibilities and Policies

I, the undersigned TAMUT Student-Athlete, have read and made myself familiar with all of

the information contained in this 2014-2015 Student-Athlete Handbook. Any questions I had

were brought to the attention of my coach and addressed accordingly. By signing this form, I

understand and agree to abide by the rules and regulations set forth by this handbook.

SIGNATURE DATE