Athletic Policies

 

 

 

Holy Cross

School

 

Interscholastic Athletic Policy

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Holy Cross Church

Mission Statement

 

We, the community of Holy Cross Catholic Church, are called through baptism to be a gospel-based community.  We gather as a Eucharistic people to celebrate God’s presence among us; to proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord; to work for peace and justice; and to live as a welcoming people reaching out through educational, service and social ministries.

 

 

 

Holy Cross School

Mission Statement

 

Holy Cross School is a Catholic educational community committed to academic excellence, deepening of Christian values, and fostering of service to society.  Supported by Holy Cross Parish, dedicated parents, and devoted faculty, the school actively participates in the Catholic mission of evangelization.  The school provides a quality education to ensure that the students become lifelong learners.  Students grow spiritually through faith, witness, and prayer by being called to live out the Gospel message.  Emphasis is placed on social responsibility and exemplary citizenship.  Holy Cross School develops and nurtures the whole person:  mind, body, and spirit.

 

 

 

Interscholastic Athletic Program

Mission Statement

 

The Holy Cross Interscholastic Athletic Program provides both instructional and competitive extra-curricular sports experiences for all Holy Cross students in grades 5 through 8 in basketball, football, volleyball, and cheerleading.  All students who desire to participate in a sport will be placed on the roster.  Holy Cross has a “no-cut” policy as long as participants practice with the team regularly and vigorously and positively contribute to the team.   All participants will learn the fundamentals and strategies of each sport and be given the opportunity to develop those skills in practice and games.

 

Goals of the Interscholastic Athletic Program:

  • give students the experience of being part of a team;
  • develop school spirit and team spirit;
  • increase self-confidence and self-esteem;
  • promote higher academic performance;
  • help students develop / maintain good health through physical fitness;
  • provide enjoyable recreation activity;
  • encourage values of self-discipline, self-confidence, fair play, and cooperation;
  • teach the proper attitude toward winning, losing, and competing with dignity.

 

 

Holy Cross Code of Ethics

 

 

 The Holy Cross Interscholastic Athletic Program exists as an integral part of the Holy Cross Parish, a faith-centered community. As such, the program consciously does its part to fulfill the educational mission of the Church, “to teach and proclaim the Gospel in a challenging and supportive climate”.  Meetings, practice sessions, gatherings and games will therefore be guided by the following behavior guidelines:

 

  • Participants will be taught and demonstrate good sportsmanship and teamwork, they will use their talents and recognize the efforts and contributions of others. Members of the various teams and support staff are expected to be self-disciplined and able to follow instructions.  Participants are to:
    • Play by the rules in letter and spirit,
    • Maintain positive attitudes and try one’s best,
    • Conduct oneself with honesty, integrity, and with personal responsibility,
    • Respect the rights and dignity of others,
    • Bring honor to one’s self, one’s team, and one’s school.

 

  • Coaches, instructors, and the Holy Cross Boosters will show mutual respect and dedication and will abide by the Interscholastic Athletic Policy and decisions of the Pastor, Principal, and Holy Cross School Board.

  

  • Parents, relatives, guests, and visitors will use only positive expressions of enthusiastic support and active participation. They will use established channels to voice suggestions for improvement.

 

  • This code of ethics is to be is to be displayed in the Holy Cross gymnasium and communicated to coaches, participants, and parents, relatives, and guests periodically.

At any and all sporting events, parents, coaches, athletes, and fans from Holy Cross are to remember that they are all representatives of Holy Cross Parish and must properly conduct themselves according to the Christian ideals we proclaim as a Gospel based community.  Any who cannot conduct themselves in this manner will be excluded from extra-curricular sports events at Holy Cross.

 

 

Holy Cross Interscholastic Athletic Policy

Table of Contents

 

 

InterscholasticAthletic Program                                                                      

            Program Definition and Objectives                                                                                5

           

Responsibilities and Expectations

            Principal                                                                                                                     6

            Athletic Director                                                                                                         7         

            Coaches                                                                                                                      9

            Parents / Guardians                                                                                                    12

            Student-athletes                                                                                                         14

            Boosters                                                                                                                     17

            Practice / Game Schedules / Participation

                        Football                                                                                                         18

                        Volleyball                                                                                                      19

Basketball                                                                                                          20

                        Cheerleading                                                                                                  21

            Awards, Banners, Recruiting, Team Name, Council Management                            21

            Grievance Procedure and Appropriate Escalation                                                       22

                                                           

                       

Holy Cross School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origin in its admission or hiring policies, educational programs, loan or scholarship programs, athletics or any other school-administered program.

 

 

No liquor may be issued at parish-sponsored sports events where children are present. There will be no smoking or alcoholic consumption at any sporting events where school children are present.

 

 

This policy conforms to policies, procedures, and rules established by the Catholic Archdiocese of Chicago and / or the Office of Catholic Schools.

 

 

Federal Law prohibits sex discrimination in private schools’ education programs or activities.  The Archdiocese of Chicago, following the teachings of the Roman Catholic Church, encourages equal treatment of the sexes.  Consequently, all Archdiocesan schools, through their athletic programs, must provide equal opportunity for both sexes.  Accordingly, Holy Cross provides comparable interscholastic athletic programs for both sexes.


 

HOLY CROSS SCHOOL

INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETIC PROGRAM

 

 

School-sponsored athletic programs are an extension of the school and its curriculum and are subject to the authority of the pastor by virtue of his office, the principal, and any pertinent policies of the local school board per Archdiocesan Policy.  This policy and handbook are compiled and governed by the Holy Cross School Board and will be reviewed periodically.

 

Coaches, students, and parents are required to read and abide by this policy.  To participate in athletics at Holy Cross, you will acknowledge (via signed forms) that you have read, understood, and agree to be governed by this policy.  Acceptance and acknowledgment (via signed forms) will be required for participation in each sport.  Behavior contrary to this policy will be cause for exclusion from participation in the Holy Cross Interscholastic Athletic Program.

 

The Program

 

If possible, the Program shall consist of at least the following:

                                                  i.      Basketball:       grades 5-6-7-8                               boys/girls

                                                ii.      Football:          grades 5-6 (Junior Varsity);  7-8 (Varsity)      boys

                                              iii.      Volleyball:      grades 5-6-7-8                              girls

                                               iv.      Cheerleading:    grades 5-6 (Junior Varsity);  7-8 (Varsity)      girls

 

Objectives of interscholastic sports at Holy Cross

 

         The objectives of the sports programs at Holy Cross are:

 

·        to further players’ understanding of offensive and defensive strategies

·        to instill / continue development of fundamental skills

·        to instill the concepts of team play, of an individual’s responsibilities as a team member and of good sportsmanship.

·        to introduce the realities of team sports competition, while assuring adequate playing time for all participants.

·        to provide a challenging and rewarding experience for the players, parents and coaches.

 

Interscholastic sports at Holy Cross School are made possible by a collaborative effort by a number of dedicated people – the administration, parent volunteers, professional coaches, and the Boosters.  This handbook outlines the responsibilities and expectations for those groups and for the student-athletes who participate in the many sports opportunities available at Holy Cross School.

 

Please note:  While this handbook defines the policy, procedures, and expectations of our interscholastic athletic program as adopted by the Holy Cross School Board, circumstances may require changes or variations to ensure our children’s best interests are maintained.


 

Principal – Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

The principal oversees a comprehensive program of physical education for all students and an interscholastic program that is in union with the Mission and purpose of Catholic education.

 

In regards to the interscholastic program, the principal will:

 

1.      Employ a qualified athletic director.

 

2.      Ensure the athletic director has a specific role description.

 

3.      Supervise the athletic director’s activities and ensure delegated responsibilities are carried out in an appropriate manner.

 

4.      Establish and communicate the mission of the interscholastic athletic program.

 

5.      Determine local eligibility requirements for the student athletes and ensure these are fairly and uniformly enforced.

 

6.      Oversee parent, student, and coach compliance with all legal and safety aspects of the program are in compliance: i.e. verification of athlete’s age, parental permission / waivers in writing, insurance coverage, yearly physicals or other verification of fitness, and emergency information.

 

7.      Oversee verification of applications, letters of reference, the 7703 Forms of the coaches and volunteers.  A criminal background check is required for adults who will be in contact with student athletes.

 

8.      Ensure all adults in the program, especially the coaching staff, are Christian role models, are qualified to instruct and work with student athletes, and are supportive of the mission of the interscholastic athletic program.

 

9.      Establish communication and accountability mechanisms among all participants of the program.

 

 

 

 

Athletic Director – Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

The Athletic Director, under the guidance of the Holy Cross Principal, is primarily responsible for organizing and managing the Interscholastic Athletic Program.

 

1.       Supervise the athletic programs following the Athletic Policy established by the School Board in accordance with the policy of the Office of Catholic Schools (Archdiocese of Chicago).

 

2.      Ensure that coaches implement the Athletic Policy as they execute their coaching duties. Mentor new coaches and provide in-service training as necessary.

 

3.      Working with the school faculty as a liaison in reporting to coaches those students who are ineligible to participate due to academic reasons.

 

4.      Responsible for selecting, supervising and dismissing of all coaching personnel, with the assistance of the Principal.

 

5.      Representative of Holy Cross to Council II3A athletic director’s meetings.

 

6.      Assist the school’s administration in promoting a program of good conduct and sportsmanship on the part of all athletes, coaches, and parents.

 

7.      Arrange all dates for interscholastic games and shall contact with the officials for all home games except where done by the league(s).

 

8.      Work with the coaches to assure proper playing facilities.

 

9.      Responsible for working with the Booster Club in the formulation and administration of the financial budget, coordination of equipment needs, and compensation of hired coaches.

 

10.   Monitor inventory of all athletic equipment and will work with the coaches for proper maintenance and return of the equipment.

 

11.    Maintain first aid equipment and ensure access and availability.

 

12.   Oversee all athletic events including award night activities.

 

13.   Manage the number of and compilation of teams.  In the event that there are a sufficient number of players such that two or more squads of substantially equal talent can be formed, and the game schedule divided such that each squad plays in a substantially equal number of games (both conference and non-conference), and there are a sufficient number of available coaches, then multiple squads will be formed.  Generally, both squads would practice together and each squad should have an equal number of conference and non-conference games.

 

14.   Approve and sign all team rosters.

 

15.   Work with parents and coaches on gym security and crowd control.

 

16.   Report monthly on Athletic Activities to the Principal.

 

17.   Periodically arrange parent and/or coaches meetings as required.

 

18.   Conduct evaluations of coaches at the end of each season, provide feedback to the coaches, and share results of review process with the Pastor and Holy Cross School Principal.  At the end of each season, the Athletic Director will make a determination of whether coaches will be engaged the following year.  Coaches who have been negligent or deficient in carrying out their duties will not be retained and will not be involved in any other aspects of the athletic program.


 

Coaches – Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

The Holy Cross School Board appreciates the endeavors of those individuals who comprise our coaching staff. The following standards have been developed to make the Holy Cross athletic program as meaningful as possible from the viewpoint of students, coaches, teachers, and parents alike.

 

Experience in coaching a youth sports team and knowledge of the rules, regulations, strategies and other aspects of the sport, along with enthusiasm, love and concern for youngsters and a desire and commitment to pursue the objectives of the programs will all be weighed in the selection of coaches.

 

For the 5th through 7th grade basketball and volleyball squads, coaches will be adults, preferably parents of participating children.  Previous experience in coaching a youth sports team and knowledge of the rules; regulations, strategy, and other aspects of the game are desirable, but not required.         

 

For the junior varsity football program and for all other “varsity” squads, paid, experienced coaches will be sought and utilized to provide the students with the best possible sports experience.

 

Coaches will be held to high expectations and standards as detailed below.

 

Appointment / Compensation of Coaches

 

a.      The Athletic Director and the Holy Cross School Principal must approve all coaches.

b.      The Athletic Director and the Holy Cross School Principal may remove coaches failing to comply with the Program guidelines.

c.      The Athletic Director will seek volunteers to coach the 5th through 7th Grade teams.

d.      Holy Cross employs professional coaches for Varsity Football, Junior Varsity Football, 8th Grade Volleyball, and 8th Grade Basketball teams.  From time to time, depending on funding availability, professional coaches will be employed for other teams.  Paid coaches will receive compensation from the Parish.

 

Eligibility

 

a.      All coaches must be at least 18 years of age.

b.      Head coaches should be at least 21 years of age.

c.      All coaches must read, understand and agree to abide by the Athletic Policy of Holy Cross.

d.      All coaches must complete and sign an Archdiocesan coaching application and criminal background check form (7703).  Completed forms will be submitted to the Athletic Director.  Results will only be made available to the Principal and the Pastor.  Any discussion regarding the outcome of these background checks will only be conducted by, and between, the Principal and Pastor.

 

e.      Every coach must complete Archdiocesan Virtus training to qualify as a volunteer.

f.        Coaches are encouraged to complete a formal clinic or in-service in their particular sport. Coaches must be familiar with the Illinois Abused and Neglected Child Reporting Act and should clearly understand their legal responsibilities.

g.      The ability to responsibly supervise and instruct the students in her or his care.

h.      Continual concern for the safety and well-being of the children.

i.        An understanding of the basics and rules of the sport to be coached and the techniques for teaching the fundamentals of the sport – use of tactics and strategies that are appropriate for the age and skill level of their team.

j.        The ability to develop the potential, confidence, and skills of each athlete.

k.      The ability to separate winning from the important goals and values of the Holy Cross Interscholastic Athletic Program.

l.        Coaches who have been negligent or deficient in carrying out their duties will not be retained and will not be involved in any other aspects of the athletic program.

 

Requirements

 

1.       Before the season commences, a meeting must be held with students desiring to play with at least one parent attending.  At this meeting the coach will outline the specific program for the relevant sport and grade level.

 

2.      Coaches must communicate the schedule of practices and games and alterations to the schedule in a timely manner via written communications – paper or emails.  Coaches cannot assume participants and their parents will receive oral messages.

 

3.      Head coaches must have a first aid kit available at all practices and games. The Holy Cross Permission Slips also are to be on hand, with accurate and up-to-date health information for each athlete, at all practices and games in the event of emergency treatment.  However, coaches never administer medication(s).

4.      In case of an apparent serious injury, the coaches should immediately call for paramedics.  In addition, the coaches should notify the parents or emergency contacts as quickly as possible; using the phone numbers listed on the permission slips. When paramedics arrive, the coach is to give them the permission slip (which has a section authorizing emergency medical treatment) and provide answers to any questions they may have concerning the circumstances of the injury. The coach must complete a Holy Cross School accident report and submit copies to Athletic Director and Principal.

 

5.      Coaches are to keep written records of accidents and injuries and notify parents of the injured participant on a timely basis.  Accidents and injuries are also to be communicated to the Athletic Director on a timely basis.

 

6.      Transportation to and from practices and games is a parent’s responsibility. Coaches should be aware of the fact that if they provide transportation to a player, they could be held personally liable in the event of an accident. Coaches are not covered under any school liability insurance policy, and must sign volunteer forms or other forms required by the Archdiocese of Chicago.

 

 

7.      Coaches should attend all practices and games.  In their absence, coaches must ensure there is responsible substitute adult supervision.  Coaches are responsible for all participants’ conduct and behavior at practices and games.

 

8.      Coaches must strive to be fair and unprejudiced in their relationships with the student athletes and their parents.  They must strive to faithfully and fairly adhere to the guidelines for ‘playing time’ for each student athlete.

  9.       Coaches are to give each athlete an appropriate opportunity to participate.  Coaches must remember that meaningful participation is an important element of the success and vitality of Holy Cross sports programs over the years. Accordingly, it is understood that coaches will seek to provide meaningful playing time for all student-athletes.

 

10.   Coaches must not tolerate any player’s words or actions that de-value another player, name-calling, taunting, etc.  Likewise, any action that is physically dangerous - deliberately trying to injure another player – is absolutely not allowed.

 

11.    Coaches are to show respect for game officials and opponents – publicly shaking hands with the officials and the opposing coach before and after a game demonstrates this respect.   Coaches   are to refrain from public protests that may lead to similar behavior from spectators.

 

12.   Coaches must plan for proper physical conditioning of the student athletes.  Practices are to begin with stretching and warm-up exercises and end with cool downs.

 

13.   Coaches must ensure the student athletes wear all proper safety equipment at all practices and contests.

 

14.   Coaches are to maintaining attendance records, rosters, scorebooks, etc., and reporting of game scores to the Holy Cross Athletic Director.

 

15.   Coaches are to recruit “team parents” to assist with gym supervision during home games, scoreboard operations during home games, team parties, etc.

 

16.   Coaches are responsible for the safety and welfare of the team.  Coaches must know the Emergency Plan and periodically rehearse it with the team.  Coaches must wait, after practice, until all students are collected by their parents or guardian.

 

17.   Coaches are to discipline inappropriate student behavior or disrespect; however, coaches must never resort to physical or verbal abuse or profanity.  Coaches are to know and be aware of the difference between punitive touching (physical discipline) and corrective touching (correcting an athlete’s hold on a ball, etc.).  Punitive touching is prohibited.  Coaches are to also to be aware and careful that touching is never interpreted in a sexual manner.  Coaches are to use common sense and fairness in resolving problems and conflicts.

 

18.   Coaches must keep objective, factual, written records of problems concerning an athlete’s attitude and / or behavior.  These records will be critical if disciplinary actions lead to suspension or expulsion of an athlete from the interscholastic program.


 

Parents/Guardians - Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

Parents and guardians play an important role in the success of the student athlete and also in the success of the team.

 

Parents and guardians must understand that enrolling a child in a sports program is a commitment that the child play according to all rules, attend practices, and arrive in a timely manner at all locations that the team is scheduled to play.  Full participation in all aspects of the program, e.g. driving student athletes to “away games” or tournaments that are a distance from the school, tournament participation during the holidays, etc. is expected.

 

  1. Parents agree to arrange to have participants complete medical exams and required paperwork and submit that information on a timely basis.

 

  1. Parents agree to support and encourage their child’s efforts. Attending games and cheering the team on as a show of support, however parents are always reminded to act in a responsible manner and show good Christian sportsmanship.

 

Poor sportsmanship by parents may result in ejection from a facility and may result in temporary or permanent ineligibility of their child to participate in Holy Cross sports.

 

  1. Parents agree to make no attempt to instruct or direct the play of an athlete or of the team or an opposing team. They should not criticize the playing efforts of any athlete or of the team.

 

  1. Parents agree to be a model for putting losses in perspective and moving on. Questioning, criticizing or berating the coach, the referees, or any other officials is inappropriate behavior.

 

  1. Parents must realize that they can and may be required to leave a practice, game, or tournament if they are not able to maintain a standard of acceptable behavior.

 

  1. Parents agree to contribute their time and service in support of the team and interscholastic athletic program.  Parents may be asked to assist as scorekeepers, timekeepers, monitors of crowd control or to serve as an assistant coach or to help with set-up and cleanup.

 

  1. Parents agree to provide transportation for their children to and from games and practices in a timely manner.

 

  1. Parents cannot allow younger siblings to attend practice(s) or games with the student athlete when the parent will not be there; there is insufficient supervision to do this.

 

 

 

  1. One or two parents may be asked to serve as team liaisons and assist with phone calls and other tasks.  Where multiple tasks are regularly required, a schedule rotating the tasks among parents should be created and communicated to ensure all tasks are completed and rotated in an equitable manner.

 

  1. Parents agree to assist the student in maintaining their athletic uniforms.

 

  1. Parents may be required to bring their school fees and tuition account current as a pre-requisite of student participation in the athletic program.

 

  1. Parents agree to communicate, at appropriate times, with the teachers of the student to ensure that academic and behavior eligibility requirements or standards are being met.

 

  1. Parents agree to communicate with the coach or athletic director on matters of concern at appropriate times; not immediately before, during or after a game.

 

  1. Parents agree to initially communicate directly with their child’s coach in order to resolve issues.  If an issue cannot be resolved with the coach, then it can be elevated to the athletic director.  See grievance procedure.

 

 


 

Student-Athletes - Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

Eligibility

 

All students at Holy Cross are eligible to participate in each interscholastic sport at their grade level. There are no limits on the size of rosters for teams. If 16 or more players are present in 5th grade basketball, and 18 or more players are present for 6th, 7th and 8th grade basketball, then two teams may be formed subject to these rules.  Number of teams and compilation will be determined by the Athletic Director based on resources available – coaches, equipment, facilities, etc.

 

         Holy Cross has a “no-cut” policy as long as participants practice with the team          regularly and vigorously and positively contribute to the team.

 

Eligibility primarily depends on participants maintaining “good” academic standing in all their studies.

Participation Fees

 

There shall be a fee for participation on Holy Cross teams.  The fee level is set by the Athletic Director in conjunction with the Holy Cross Boosters, taking into account such items as conference fees, referees fees, average annual equipment expenditures, fund raising expectations, etc.  The fee will be announced at the start of the sign-up period for that sport.  Financially challenged families should contact the Principal if participation fees are beyond their current means.  The Principal and the Booster Club will ensure provisions are made for such situations.

 

Requirements

 

  1. Participants agree to conduct themselves properly at all times because they are official representatives of Holy Cross School.  Students who participate in interscholastic athletics have chosen to represent Holy Cross in a highly visible manner.  They must act in a manner that reflects favorably upon the school and on themselves.  This expectation is not limited to the field or court, but must be evident at school, in the community, at other schools, and before/after all games.

 

  1. Participants agree to maintain satisfactory academic standing by completing homework and submitting it on time, and by achieving at least the minimum academic standard for participation. Failure to maintain the minimum academic standard for participation in the Holy Cross Athletic Program as prescribed by the school will result first in a warning letter delivered to the participant’s parent/guardian for signature and return. If academic performance remains deficient, the participant will be suspended from the team until the minimum passing grade is attained.

 

 

The Holy Cross Principal may, as a disciplinary measure, temporarily or permanently suspend a student from participation in a sports program. Likewise, if the student is not a disciplinary problem but it appears to the principal that athletic participation is interfering with the student’s scholastic achievement, the principal may suspend the student from the activity.

 

  1. Participants agree to complete medical exams and paperwork and submit that information on a timely basis.  Every student must deliver a completed copy of the permission slip, signed by at least one parent or guardian, prior to the first practice. This permission slip informs parents that Holy Cross School does not provide automatic medical or health insurance.

 

  1. Participants agree to display good sportsmanship at all times. Sportsmanlike behavior is important in the development of each participant. Therefore, any unsportsmanlike behavior by a participant, such as loss of temper towards a coach, referee, opposing player, or spectator, or use of inappropriate or profane language or gestures, deliberately rough or unfair play or conduct contrary to the best interest of the team warrants removal from a game or practice.

 

  1. Participants agree to attend each practice session and game, to be on-time for each practice and game, and to remain for the full time of each practice and game, unless excused by the coach after advance notice to the coach.

 

Absences due to illness, family vacation, etc. are to be expected, but should be limited.  Excessive absence will reduce playing time of the participant.  If a child is involved in a non-school organized activity outside of Holy Cross, practice/match conflicts are sure to arise. It is certain that missed practices or games will impair the development of the player; and it is probable that team development will be negatively affected as well.

Thus, players are strongly encouraged to make a commitment to place their Holy Cross team in front of other organized activities.

 

  1. Participants agree to show respect for coaches and cooperate with them fully.  Respect must also be given to members of their own team, their opponents, and to officials of the sport.  The athlete also must respect the spectators and fans.

 

  1. Participants agree to accept custody of uniform and equipment items supplied by the school, to provide proper care and cleaning as needed, and to return the items as required in good condition.

 

  1. Participants agree to attend practices and games in proper uniform, with proper equipment, and in good physical condition.

 

9.     Players who miss practices or matches, or who consistently goof around during practices will forfeit some or all of their playing time for the match following the infraction.  To the extent possible, coaches shall inform the player and parents of impending problems and of the consequences. Players suffering the consequences of this type of infraction are nonetheless expected to attend the game and to sit with the team.

 

 

  1.   Participants agree to conscientiously support the team by learning the rules and skills      of the game, by following the instruction of coaches, by encouraging and not criticizing   teammates, and by focusing on the team’s success first before their own.

 

  1.   Participants agree to accept and practice the philosophy, and policy of the Holy Cross     Athletic Program, which emphasizes participation and skill development over winning.

 

  1.   Participants will not be allowed to practice or play in game on any day that                     he/she is not in class.

 

  1.   Participants agree that he/she may not be eligible for a game if they receive a detention.   The game suspension will be served on the next game.

 

  1.   Violation of any of the responsibilities may result in disciplinary action.              

 

  1.   Participants are to be given written notification and the opportunity to be heard, with    their parents, if there is the possibility of suspension or dismissal from a team or the        athletic program.

 

  1.   Participants who are suspended or dismissed from a team or the interscholastic athletic   program may not attend practices or contests.

 

Holy Cross Boosters – Responsibilities and Expectations

 

 

1.  Provide funding of Holy Cross School’s athletic programs – physical education and interscholastic.

 

2.  Purchase / maintain uniforms and equipment and coordinate the management and use of those uniforms and equipment.

 

3.  Aid the Holy Cross Athletic Director in determining fees to be charged participants of each sport.

 

4.  Aid the Holy Cross Athletic Director in determining compensation of paid outside coaches.

 

5.  Where possible, provide building maintenance funds.

 

6.   Organize and host the Fall and Spring Sports Recognition nights.

 

7.   Provide Banners for the Holy Cross gym for championship Varsity Football and 8th Grade Basketball and Volleyball teams.

 

8.    Provide championship special recognition awards, such as a specially printed Holy Cross jacket or sweatshirt, to all members of any 8th Grade, or varsity Holy Cross team that wins its conference championship, regular season and/or conference play-offs.

 

 


 

INTERSCHOLASTIC PROGRAM REGULATIONS

 

1. Practice/Game Schedules / Participation

 

 

Junior Varsity Football (5th and 6th Grade)

 

Practices begin in mid-August and are held daily, Monday through Friday.

 

League games are played per the conference schedule. The number of league games depends upon the number of conference schools participating with junior varsity teams.

 

Coaches may schedule additional scrimmages during the season with non-conference teams on which the players are of the same ages as the Holy Cross team; but the total of league games, non-conference games and scrimmages may not exceed eight.

 

         Junior Varsity Football is considered to be strictly a developmental program. The          emphasis is on putting forth best effort; winning or losing is incidental.

 

6th graders will get substantial playing time in each game. Fifth graders may get to play in games, but the coaching staff will determine playing time based on readiness for game situations.  The safety of the student-athlete will be the primary and governing factor.

 

 

 

Varsity Football (7th and 8th Grade)

 

Practices begin in mid-August and are held daily, Monday through Friday.

 

League games are played either on Friday evenings or on Saturdays. The number of league games depends upon the number of conference schools participating with varsity teams and upon the divisional make-up. The maximum number of games is nine plus play-offs. 

 

The conference title game is normally played on the first Sunday in November and marks the end of the season.

 

Varsity Football institutes the objective of prevailing over opponents and the realities of team sports competition — coaches will determine playing time.

 

Players and parents should therefore expect that not all players will play in each game, and that total playing time may vary significantly from player to player.

 

 

 

 


 

         5th & 6th Grade Girls Volleyball

 

Practices begin in September and are limited to four per week.

 

A schedule of 8-12 matches (excluding tournaments) shall be sought, with not more than three during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined matches/ practices shall not exceed five during any one week, excluding tournaments. No matches, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond the first Sunday in November.

 

Fifth and Sixth Grade Volleyball is considered to be strictly a developmental program. The emphasis is on putting forth best effort; winning or losing is incidental.  Every player on the team will play substantially equal time in each match, including tournaments, except in the case of disciplinary action.  Significant playing time differentials must be avoided.

 

 

 

7th Grade Girls Volleyball

 

Practices begin in late August and are limited to five per week.

 

A schedule of 12‑18 matches, excluding tournaments, shall be sought, with not more than three during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined matches/practices shall not exceed six during any one week, excluding tournaments. No matches, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond the first Sunday in November.

 

Seventh Grade Volleyball introduces the concept of prevailing over opponents while still providing adequate playing time for all players.  Each player shall play at least the equivalent of one full game except in the case of disciplinary action.

 

 

 

8th Grade Girls Varsity Volleyball

 

Practices begin in late August and are limited to five per week.

 

A schedule of 14‑20 matches, excluding tournaments, shall be sought, with not more than three during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined matches/practices shall not exceed six during any one week, excluding tournaments. No matches, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond the first Sunday in November.

 

Varsity Volleyball institutes the objective of prevailing over opponents and the realities of team sports competition — coaches will determine playing time.

 

Players and parents should therefore expect that not all players will play in each game, and that total playing time may vary significantly from player to player.

 


 

5th & 6th Grade Basketball (Boys and Girls)

 

Practices begin in early November and are limited to five per week.

 

A schedule of 14-18 games, excluding play-offs and tournaments, shall be sought, with not more than three during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined games/practices shall not exceed six during any one week, excluding tournaments. No games, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond March 15th.

 

Fifth and Sixth Grade Basketball is considered to be strictly a developmental program. The emphasis is on putting forth best effort; winning or losing is incidental.  Every player on the team will play substantially equal time in each game, including tournaments, except in the case of disciplinary action.  Significant playing time differentials must be avoided.

 

 

 

7th Grade Basketball (Boys and Girls)

 

Practices begin in early November and are limited to five per week.

 

A schedule of 14-20 games, excluding tournaments, shall be sought, with not more than four during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined games/practices shall not exceed six during any one week, excluding tournaments. No games, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond March 15th.

 

Coaches are required to play each player for at least the equivalent of one full quarter in each game, except in the case of disciplinary action.

 

 

 

8th Grade Varsity Basketball (Boys and Girls)

 

Practices begin in early November and are limited to five per week.

 

Games are scheduled by the Conference(s) to which Holy Cross belongs and shall be supplemented, if necessary, by the scheduling of non-conference games.  A schedule of 16-22 games, excluding play-offs and tournaments, shall be sought, with not more than four during any one week, excluding tournaments. Combined games/practices shall not exceed six during any one week, excluding tournaments. No games, including tournaments, shall be scheduled beyond March 15th.

 

Varsity Basketball institutes the objective of prevailing over opponents and the realities of team sports competition — coaches will determine playing time.

 

         Players and parents should therefore expect that not all players will play in each          game, and that total playing time may vary significantly from player to player.

        


 

       Cheerleading

 

         The JV Squad will be composed of 5th and 6th grade girls.  The Varsity Squad will                be  composed of 7th and 8th grade girls.  The squads cheer at the respective football team games.  There are no individual awards.

2.  Awards

Conference Champions - All members of any 8th Grade, or varsity Holy Cross team that wins its conference championship, regular season and/or conference play-offs, shall receive a special recognition award from the Boosters (i.e. Holy Cross Jacket).

 

         For varsity sports, coaches may award up to three trophies to individual players, choosing from the following categories:

 

Ø      Most Valuable Player

Ø      Most Improved Player

Ø      Coach’s Award

Ø      Best Offensive Player

Ø      Best Defensive Player

 

Trophies will be given to recipients at the Sports Recognition event following the season.  All participants will receive a team photo.

3.  Banners

Varsity Football, 8th Grade Volleyball and 8th Grade Basketball teams that win their conference (regular season and/or conference play-offs) shall be recognized on banners displayed in the Holy Cross gym.

 

4.  Recruiting

         According to Archdiocese policy, elementary schools may not recruit promising                student athletes to their schools with the promise of tuition, special considerations, or any other incentives.  The athletic director and the principal will review participation of transfer students, especially those enrolling after the opening day of school.

5.  Holy Cross Team Name

Holy Cross interscholastic athletic teams and cheerleading squad will be known as the “Chargers”.

6.  Council Management of the Interscholastic Athletic Program

The Council may develop and communicate athletic program guidelines and procedures for all of the schools within a Council.  This uniformity of expectations and procedures ensures that all aspects of the athletic programs within the Council are governed and managed fairly and in a consistent manner.

 

The Athletic Director is Holy Cross’s representative to Council II3A of the Chicago Archdiocese.  Council guidelines and procedures will be considered, acted upon, and communicated with the Holy Cross community as necessary.

 

7. Grievance Procedure

 

If a parent has a complaint or problem concerning a coach or other matter relating to a sports team, then that parent must first contact the coach of that team to resolve the issue.  Contact with the coach must be conducted in private and never in front of the team.

 

Parent communications must be handled at appropriate times – never immediately before, during, or after a game. 

 

If the parent remains dissatisfied after discussing with the coach, then the parent should contact the Holy Cross Athletic Director.  If the parent is still not satisfied, then that parent should contact the Holy Cross School Principal.  If the situation has still not been resolved in a satisfactory manner, the parent should then contact the Pastor of Holy Cross.

 

 

 

Grievance Procedure – Appropriate Escalation

 

            Grievances must be processed in a respectful manner by all parties according to the Holy Cross Code of Ethics.

 

            First Step:            Contact Coach of Team

Contact should be made, at the least, the day after an incident occurs to ensure emotions are in check.

 

If a satisfactory resolution cannot be arranged, then:

 

Second Step:            Contact Holy Cross Athletic Director

 

If a satisfactory resolution cannot be arranged, then:

 

Third Step:            Contact Holy Cross Principal

 

If a satisfactory resolution cannot be arranged, then:

 

Fourth Step:            Contact Holy Cross Pastor

 
Holy Cross School Deerfield, IL 60015 847-945-0135
Last Modified: Friday, Dec. 04, 2009