BLACKBURN COLLEGE ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT HANDBOOK

 

 

Created by the Office of the Athletic Director

in Cooperation with the Athletics Committee

 

 

Table of Contents

Heading                                                                                                                                               Page Number

Introduction                                                                                                                                                      3

Athletic Philosophy Statement                                                                                                                       3-4

Staff Directory                                                                                                                                                  4

Sports Offered                                                                                                                                                  4

Athletic Eligibility Requirements                                                                                                                     5

Substance Use/Abuse Policy                                                                                                                         6-8

Athletic Expectations Re: Offenses of Conduct Code & Work Violations                                                   9-10

Outline for Student-Athlete Disciplinary Meeting Notes                                                                               11

Game Day Management                                                                                                                                    12

Sportsmanship and Game Day Behavior Policy                                                                                           12-14

Athletic Contest Scheduling                                                                                                                          15-16

Policy for Athletic Practices and Contests During Double Instruction Period                                               16

Policy for Mid-Year New & Transfer Student Athletes                                                                                    16

Athlete Health and Safety                                                                                                                              16-22

Weather Safety/Emergencies                                                                                                                       22-25

Team Travel & Transportation                                                                                                                       25-27

Fundraising                                                                                                                                                     27-30

Budgeting/Purchasing/ Equipment                                                                                                               30-31

Sports Information                                                                                                                                            32

Athletics Committee                                                                                                                                          32

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee                                                                                                               32

Coaching Evaluations & Time Reports                                                                                                           32-33

Gender Equity                                                                                                                                                     33

Cut Policy                                                                                                                                                            33

EADA Disclosure                                                                                                                                                33

Athletic Awards and Recognition                                                                                                                  33-34

St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference                                                                                              34-35

 

INTRODUCTION

 

The intent of this handbook is to provide student-athletes, coaches, spectators, and friends of Blackburn College with an overview of the direction, policies, resources and procedures of the Athletic Department.  This handbook is considered to be a companion to the College Catalog, the Student Handbook & the Faculty & Staff Handbook.  Formal college policy contained in those publications is guiding; department policy contained in this handbook is supplemental.

 

This handbook is an evolving document.  If there are questions or suggestions for additions, please contact the Director of Athletics and Recreation.

 

Blackburn College is an NCAA Division III college and a member of the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC).

 

Blackburn College Athletics Philosophy Statement

 

Blackburn College Athletics places highest priority on the overall quality of the student-athlete experience in academic, work and athletic endeavors. The College seeks to establish and maintain an environment in which a student-athlete’s co-curricular activities enhance the student’s educational experiences. Blackburn College Athletics fosters the opportunity for individual character and leadership development, respect for individuals and promotes lifelong learning. Blackburn also seeks to establish an atmosphere where cultural diversity and gender equity are highly valued among our student-athletes and athletics staff. In addition the Blackburn Athletics Department seeks to work cooperatively with all other areas of the campus community to establish open lines of communication and strong working relationships for the benefit of the student-athlete, and all students.

 

To achieve this end, Blackburn College:

 
  • Encourages the development of sportsmanship and positive societal attitudes in all constituents, including student-athletes, coaches and administrative personnel and spectators;
  • Encourages participation by maximizing the number and variety of athletics opportunities for their students;
  • Assures that the actions of the coaches and administrators exhibit fairness, openness and honesty in working with student-athletes;
  • Assures that athletic participants are held to the same standards and policy as other members of the student body;
  • Assures that athletic programs are consistent with the institution’s educational mission by following the same policies for budgeting, staffing and controlling programs as other departments of the institution;
  • Provides equitable athletics opportunities for males and females and give equal emphasis to men’s and women’s sports;
  • Supports ethnic, racial, and gender diversity;
  • Gives primary emphasis to regional in-season competition and conference championships;
  • Supports student-athletes in their efforts to reach high levels of athletics performance, which may include opportunities for participation in national championships, by providing all teams with adequate facilities, competent coaching and appropriate competitive opportunities;
  • Places special importance on the impact of athletics on the participants rather than the spectators and places greater emphasis on internal constituents (students, alumni, faculty & staff ) than on the entertainment of the general public; and
  • Awards no athletically related financial aid to any student.             Adopted by the Athletics Committee on 3/22/10

 

STAFF DIRECTORY

 

Administrative Staff

Dr. Gregory J. Meyer                         President                                                                     Ext.    5504 

Dr. Karla McCain                               Provost                                                                                 5801

Deana Rogers                                  Business Manager                                                                  5513

Ms. Lauren Dodge                            VP for Institutional Advancement                                            5509
 
Al Sturgeon                                     VP & Dean of Student Life                                                      5562
 

Athletics Staff           

Mr. Mike Neal                                  Interim Director of Athletics & Recreation                                       5572                                  

Dr. Karl Luth                                    Faculty Athletic Representative                                                 5813

Mr. Austin Kirby                                Men’s Basketball Coach / Asst. Athletic Director                          5695

                                                       Women’s Basketball Coach                                                       5613

Mr. Mike Neal                                    Men’s Baseball Coach                                                             5699

Mr. Josh Oswald                                 Men’s Soccer Coach                                                               5698

Mr. Reed Rusten                                Cross Country Coach / Asst. Men's Basketball                           5730

Ms. Marlee Kirby                                Volleyball Coach                                                                   5711

Mr. John Mansholt                              Women's Soccer Coach                                                          5530

Ms. Abby Maurer                                Athletic Trainer                                                                     5610

Mr. Mike Neal                                    Sports Information Director                                                    5699

Ms. Leslie Messina                              Softball Coach                                                                          

Mr. Aaron Jeffers                                Men’s Golf Coach                                                                     5572

Mr. Alex Hamerlinck                            Assistant Men's Soccer Coach

Mr. Reed Rusten                                 Assistant Men's Basketball Coach / Asst. Athletic Director

Mr. Lowell Schwartz                            Assistant Baseball Coach 

Ms. Lucy Magnussen                           Assistant Volleyball Coach

Dr. Brett Wolters                                  Team Physician                                                                   5610

 

Other Selected Campus Staff

Dr. Steven Lambert                           Director of Admissions                                             5559

Ms. Gena Ober                                   Physical Plant Services Coordinator                           5503

Mr. Kyle Lowden                                Director of Marketing & Public Relations                    5781                      

Mr. Tod Dowdy                                   Director of Campus Safety                                       5550

Mr. Sam Harding                                Director of Motor Pool                                              5617

Ms. Dianna Ruyle                                Registrar                                                                5772

 

 

SPORTS OFFERED

 

Men: Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer                                

Women: Basketball, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball

Athletic Eligibility Requirements

 

To be academically eligible for athletics at Blackburn College, the student-athlete must meet the following requirements:

(A)    Full-time student requirement—must be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours.

At the close of the semester (deemed by the Office of the Registrar upon publication of the academic standing results) student-athletes must be enrolled in the upcoming semester in order to be eligible; student-athletes will remain ineligible until they enroll.

*The only exception to this requirement is for student-athletes in their final semester of the baccalaureate program and the institution certifies that they are carrying the necessary courses to complete degree requirements.

(B) Cumulative Grade Point Averagemust meet or exceed the following averages:

                                      First Semester                        Second Semester

First Year                     1.6                               1.8

Second Year                1.9                               2.0

Third Year                   2.0                               2.0

Fourth Year                 2.0                               2.0

 

Blackburn rounds off GPAs to the nearest tenth. Academic eligibility will be determined when the Office of the Registrar deems the semester officially over and has published the academic standing results for probation and suspension. Student-athletes who at the close of a semester are placed on academic probation or suspended from the college are automatically ineligible in accordance with policies laid out in the Student Handbook.

Changes in a student-athlete’s eligibility will be effective immediately following the published academic standing results. The student-athlete will not be allowed to practice or compete if deemed ineligible and must leave campus within 24 hours of notice (for holiday break). In turn, athletes who are now eligible may return to play immediately.

(C) Satisfactory Progress toward B.A. Degree at Blackburn College.

The following schedule is used to determine satisfactory progress at Blackburn College (summer school credits may be used to reach these requirements):

24 hours earned by the end of the second semester

48 hours earned by the end of the fourth semester

72 hours earned by the end of the sixth semester

96 hours earned by the end of the eighth semester

 

(D) Eligibility for Transfer Student-Athletes:

Transfer students are expected to meet the standards for both suspension and probation according to the total number of full-time college semesters attempted at all post-secondary institutions, regardless of class standing.

ATHLETIC SUBSTANCE USE/ABUSE POLICY

Statement of Purpose

It is a privilege to compete on an intercollegiate team at Blackburn College. With this privilege comes high expectations and standards on campus as well as within the community. The Blackburn College Athletic Department forbids the illegal or irresponsible use of alcohol and other drugs. The misuse of alcohol and other drugs is detrimental to academic and athletic performance and to have damaging effects on the physical and mental health of its student-athletes.   

The following policies and procedures are intended to promote responsible decision-making and general awareness within the Blackburn Athletic Department Staff, student-workers, and student-athletes[1].  This document was created to emphasize the standards to which all of our student-athletes are held accountable. The following objectives are consistent with the Athletic Philosophy Statement: 

1)      Each semester the Blackburn College Athletic Director will inform student-athletes of policies of Blackburn College, NCAA, and the State of Illinois concerning alcohol & other drug use/abuse. 

2)      Encourage only use of alcohol in moderation by those student-athletes of legal age and discourage alcohol abuse, underage drinking and illegal drug use by Blackburn student-athletes. 

3)      Collaborate with Student Life/Residence Life to identify student-athletes who may have substance use/abuse problems and assist in proper treatment.

4)      Create a positive and healthy atmosphere for Blackburn student-athletes.

 

Blackburn’s Athletic Expectations Regarding Alcohol Use

If any of the following situations are violated while representing Blackburn as a student-athlete, the student-athlete will be subject to specified penalties.  Examples of situations when the policy is in effect include but are not limited to:

Alcohol use during:

  • All practices on or off campus
  • Team meetings, SAAC meetings, team events, hosting recruits on campus
  • Home and away competition including regular season, conference play-offs, and post-season
  • Awards banquets, team banquets, team meals
  • Blackburn College events

 

  1. 1.      No alcoholic beverages will be permitted on Blackburn property (consistent with campus policy) nor at any Athletic Department sponsored practice or competition.

 

  1. 2.      No student-athlete, while involved in any Blackburn Athletic Department sponsored away activity shall use alcohol (including practices and away training or competition trips regardless of whether funded by the operating budget or through fundraised dollars). Away trips are defined as the period of time starting with departure from campus to time of return to campus, when released by the head coach.

 

  1. 3.      No student-athlete while hosting a student recruit will be permitted to purchase, consume, possess, distribute, sell or be under the influence of alcohol. Student-athletes serving as hosts for prospective student-athletes are not to take the prospect into any environment where alcohol is distributed in an uncontrolled manner (i.e. parties, bars, residence halls). Consumption or possession of an alcoholic beverage in the presence of a prospective student-athlete during a campus visit is prohibited & subject to disciplinary action.

 

Penalties

Student-athletes who fail to abide by the above regulations and expectations shall be subject to disciplinary action up to and including termination of athletic eligibility. This system was implemented for the prevention of unsafe or illegal behavior and/or any behavior that may hinder a team from accomplishing its goals or tarnish the image of the College. These guidelines were also created to promote consistent baselines in the sanctions and rulings for all student-athletes. It is within the rights of the coach to set higher standards of conduct for their student-athletes than outlined in the handbook.

Student-athletes who violate the above rules and regulations regarding alcohol could be subject to any of the following sanctions prescribed below; however penalties are not limited to this list. Offenses will accumulate throughout the course of an individual season. The most severe sanctions on the list (#4 or #5) could be implemented for student-athletes who have repeated offenses involving alcohol.  In those situations a student-athlete's intercollegiate eligibility at Blackburn could be affected.

 

In addition to Student Life process or sanctions, the student-athlete will receive the following penalties which will increase in severity dependent upon the number of offenses & individual circumstances:

  1. Have a conference with Head Coach and Athletic Director.
  2. Be required to schedule a meeting with Counseling Services. An alcohol assessment may be required. Student-athlete will be required to follow-through with any actions deemed necessary.
  3. Be suspended for 10% of the total season contests effective immediately, which may include post season contest dates, and can carry over to the next season. Contests will be defined as regular or post season contests (not scrimmages or exhibition contests). . Depending upon the circumstances, attendance and participation at practice during the suspension period may not be allowed.
  4. Be suspended from all athletic participation for one calendar year from date of the offense. The student will be prohibited from attending any athletically related team activities (as defined by the NCAA) during the suspension period.
  5. Student-athlete will be suspended from all further intercollegiate athletic participation at Blackburn.

 

Appeal Process

Blackburn Athletics reports to the Vice President & Dean of Student Life. Should a student wish to exercise their right to appeal these penalties (at any level) as defined and outlined above, the student has the right to appeal such actions to the VP & Dean of Student Life. If an appeal is submitted, penalties will be put on hold until the appeal is heard and decided.

 

 

Blackburn’s Athletic Expectations Regarding Drug Use

Blackburn College and the NCAA take a strong stand on the use of illegal or banned drugs by student-athletes.  The NCAA bans drugs by class, along with any substance chemically related to those classes. The banned drug classes are:

  1. Stimulants—ie. amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine; methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine (bitter orange); methylhexaneamine, “bath salts” (mephedrone) etc. Exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned.
  2. Anabolic Agents--(sometimes listed as a chemical formula, such as 3,6,17-androstenetrione): boldenone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto); nandrolone; stanozolol; testosterone; methasterone; androstenedione; norandrostenedione; methandienone; etiocholanolone; trenbolone; etc
  3. Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only) alcohol; atenolol; metoprolol; nadolol; pindolol; propranolol; timolol; etc.
  4. Diuretics and Other Masking Agents-- bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene; trichlormethiazide; etc.
  5. Street Drugs-- heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); synthetic cannabinoids (eg. spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073)
  6. Peptide Hormones and Analogues-- growth hormone(hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc.
  7. Anti-estrogens-- anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; 3,17-dioxo-etiochol-1,4,6-triene(ATD), etc.
  8. Beta-2 Agonists-- bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; etc.
 

Note to Student-Athletes: There is no complete list of banned substances.
Do not rely on this list to rule out any supplement ingredient.  Check with your athletics department staff (i.e. Head Athletic Trainer or Director of Athletics) prior to using a supplement or a prescription medication.

 

Any student-athlete suspected of illegal drug use will have a conference with the Head Coach and the Athletic Director.  The student will be provided with the evidence and the reasons that he/she is suspected of illegal drug use.  The student may be required to submit to and pay for formal drug testing to demonstrate there are no substances in his/her system.  If the drug test is positive for illegal or banned substances, the penalties will be:

 

In addition to Student Life processes or sanctions, the student-athlete will:

  • Lose a full year of eligibility for the first offense (25 percent of their total eligibility) and will be withheld from competition for a full season.
  • After a second positive test for illegal or banned substances, will lose another year of eligibility and another year withheld from competition.
 

Appeal Process

 

Blackburn Athletics reports to the Vice President & Dean of Student Life. Should a student wish to exercise their right to appeal these penalties (at any level) as defined and outlined above, the student has the right to appeal such actions to the VP & Dean of Student Life. If an appeal is submitted, penalties will be put on hold until the appeal is heard and decided.

 

 

 

Blackburn’s Athletic Expectations Regarding Social Offenses of Student Conduct Code & WORK VIOLATIONS

 

Student Life Warnings & Social Probation

 

  1. Student-athlete’s 1st written warning from Student Life will result in a meeting with the Head Coach.
  2. Student-athlete’s 2nd written warning from Student Life will result in a meeting with the Head Coach and the Athletic Director, and parental notification.
  3. Athletic sanctions in addition to Student Life requirements after a 3rd incident will result in a sanctioned event deemed necessary and appropriate by the Head Coach and Athletic Director. Student-athletes will have 7 days from the date of notification (via mail, email and text) to complete the required project (community service, talk to team, etc). Each situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, after the review the student-athletes may be sanctioned no less than 5 hours and up to 10 hours.
  4. Student-athletes who are placed on social probation will be subjected to a suspension of contests to be determined by the Athletic Director and Head Coach, competitive season and/or post season in the student-athletes’ respective sport. (not to include exhibitions, alumni games, or scrimmages)
    1. Suspensions will occur immediately. Failure to complete the requirements of the suspension in the time provided will result in additional game suspensions until all requirements are met.
    2. Two-sport student athletes will serve their suspension immediately in the sport in which they are currently participating.  If suspension cannot be completed then the suspension will carry over to the next season of competition. (i.e. a men’s soccer & baseball player, will serve suspension at end of soccer season and carry over to beginning of spring baseball)
    3. Student-athletes, who are put on probation during their off-season, will be granted the opportunity to meet all requirements to be cleared of probationary status.  Once completed, the student athlete will not be awarded a suspension for their next semester of competition.  If requirements are not met, however, suspensions will be handed down by the Athletic Director and Head Coach. (i.e. women’s soccer player on probation during spring semester could be cleared to play in the following fall semester)
    4. In circumstances of continued behavior, the Athletic Director and Head Coach will confer to determine additional sanctions which could result in termination of roster spot.
 
 

Work Probation

 

  1. Student-athlete’s 2nd written warning from the Work Program will result in a meeting with the Head Coach.
  2. Student-athlete’s 3rd written warning from the Work Program will result in a meeting with the Head Coach and the Athletic Director, and parental notification.
  3. Student-athlete 4th written warning from the Work Program will result in a sanctioned event deemed necessary and appropriate by the Head Coach and Athletic Director. Student-athletes will have 7 days from the date of notification (via mail, email and text) to complete the required project (community service, talk to team, etc). Each situation will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis, after the review the student-athletes may be sanctioned no less than 5 hours and up to 10 hours.
  4. Student-athletes who are placed on work probation will be subjected to a suspension of contests to be determined by the Athletic Director and Head Coach, competitive season and/or post season in the student-athletes’ respective sport. (not to include exhibitions, alumni games, or scrimmages)
  5.  
    1. Suspensions will occur immediately. Failure to complete the requirements of the suspension in the time provided will result in additional game suspensions until all requirements are met.
    2. Two-sport student athletes will serve their suspension immediately in the sport in which they are currently participating.  If suspension cannot be completed then the suspension will carry over to the next season of competition. (i.e. a men’s soccer & baseball player, will serve suspension at end of soccer season and carry over to beginning of spring baseball)
    3. Student-athletes, who are put on probation during their off-season, will be granted the opportunity to meet all requirements to be cleared of probationary status.  Once completed, the student athlete will not be awarded a suspension for their next semester of competition.  If requirements are not met, however, suspensions will be handed down by the Athletic Director and Head Coach. (i.e. women’s soccer player on probation during spring semester could be cleared to play in the following fall semester)
    4. In circumstances of continued behavior, the Athletic Director and Head Coach will confer to determine additional sanctions which could result in termination of roster spot.
 
 

Athletic Appeal: A student wishing to appeal a disciplinary decision does so by filing a written request for an appeal within 96 hours (excluding weekend days) of receipt of a letter from athletics. The appeal should be filed with the Director of Athletics who will convene the appeal board for review. The written request must state the specific grounds on which the appeal is based. Grounds for appeal are:

*Improper procedure

*New evidence

*Excessively harsh sanction

 

In making the determination about an appeal, the Board may uphold the original decision with no changes; uphold the original decision with revision to sanctions; or overturn the original decision. The decision of the Appeals Board is final. Students have no further appeal rights; unless the Vice President for Student Affairs determines that a review of the case is necessary and appropriate.

 

Appeal Board: Comprised of a representative group of individuals from the Athletic Department.

-Director of Athletics

-Two athletic staff members*

-Two members of SAAC, preferably the President and Vice-President

*Coach of the student-athlete in question is automatically exempt from serving on the Appeal Board for the particular case

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 

 

 

Blackburn College

Student-Athlete Disciplinary Meeting Notes

 
 

Student-Athlete name: ________________________  Date: ____________________________

Sport: ____________________________   Time: _____________________________________

Subject of the meeting: ______________________________ ___ work or social (please circle one)

Action that resulted in a Student-athlete/Coach meeting:

 
 
 
 

Action items coming out of this meeting:

 
 
 
 
 

Student-athlete and Coach reviewed the Athletic Handbook regarding warnings and write-ups: Y__ N__

Student was made aware of the next step in the disciplinary policy should the behavior continue:

Y__ N__

This information should be submitted to the Director of Athletics Office no later than 24 hours following the originally scheduled meeting.

 

Coach’s Name: _________________________________   Date: _______________________

 
 

 

 

GAME DAY MANAGEMENT

 

Blackburn College is one of 7 work colleges in the country.  The Athletic Work Department is comprised of student workers who prepare facilities for game day, collect game statistics, help the certified Athletic Trainers prepare athletes for competition, help maintain the athletics website and provide administrative help to coaches. 

 

Each home athletic contest will have a full time member of the Athletics staff serve as “Game Day Administrator.”   That person will have the responsibility of:

  • Meeting and greeting the opposing team and coaches
  • Meeting and greeting the officials for the competition
  • Ensuring that facilities are set up and equipment is in working order
  • Ensuring that after the competition all facilities/equipment is broken down/stored/cleaned
  • Ensuring that the game operation, completed almost exclusively by student workers, and athlete and spectator sportsmanship make the experience enjoyable for all.
 

SPORTSMANSHIP AND GAME DAY BEHAVIOR POLICY

 

Blackburn College supports positive behavior and good sportsmanship at all athletic contests. Conduct in and out of the athletic arena is a direct reflection on the college community. Athletics is an arena where Blackburn College is represented in a very public light, during contests participants and spectators are reminded to behave responsibly. This includes, but is not limited to treating opponents, officials and spectators with respect, always using appropriate and respectful language, cheering in a positive manner, and abiding by rules and regulations of the event. Through sportsmanship and ethical play, the opportunity exists to exhibit and teach the “six pillars of character” as described in the St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SLIAC) manual. Student-athletes and spectators should behave in a manner that is a credit to our students, programs, and institution. Those not adhering to this policy will be removed from that event and may be banned from future contests. 

 

Principles of Sportsmanship (from SLIAC Sportsmanship Code)

The essential elements of character-building and ethics in sports are embodied in the concept of sportsmanship and six core principles: honesty, respect, responsibility, fairness, unselfishness and civility. The highest standard for sports is achieved when competition reflects these “six pillars of character.”

 

The standards for the conduct of administrators, coaches, faculty, staff, spectators and student-athletes immediately preceding, during and following athletics events are:

1)      exhibiting respect and courtesy towards all participants including the coaches, student-athletes and officials;

2)      exercising restraint in their actions, both physical and verbal, toward other participants;

3)      commenting about other institutions, coaches and student-athletes only in a positive manner;

4)      refraining from making public comments critical of officials or the quality of their work.

 

“Coaches have great influence and must set the tone for responsible behavior for both their teams and fans. This includes disciplining student-athletes who have demonstrated disrespect for their opponents. This discipline measure educates that individual and his or her teammates about the importance of sportsmanship over participation and winning. Such education is needed to counteract the constant messages received by our young people from many professional athletes and others who demonstrate a lack of respect for opponents. This Conference and its coaches are committed to teach appropriate messages about sportsmanship.

 

SLIAC coaches must take every opportunity when addressing the media, booster groups or other public forums to reinforce sportsmanship, stress that the participants are young people who deserve to be treated in accordance with this Code. These same standards of sportsmanship must be applied by coaches in the recruiting process with adherence to the highest standards of honesty and integrity in all dealings with prospective student-athletes. Specifically, coaches shall advocate the positive advantages and attributes of their university and its intercollegiate athletic program and shall avoid making any derogatory statements concerning another member institution’s athletic program, facilities or educational opportunities.

 

Respect for the game in which the student-athlete participates also demands respect for the opponent. Student-athletes at SLIAC institutions are expected to treat opponents with respect. There will be no tolerance for taunting and baiting of opponents. SLIAC student-athletes must understand that they are often the most visible representatives of their institutions and their behavior is observed and emulated. SLIAC student-athletes must honor the responsibilities that accompany the privilege of representing our schools by behaving with dignity and class on and off the field.”

 

 

Code of Conduct for Spectators

1)      Spectators are an important part of the games and are encouraged to conform to accepted standards of good sportsmanship.

2)      Spectators should at all times respect officials, visiting coaches, players and cheerleaders as guests in the community and extend all courtesies to them.

3)      Enthusiastic cheering for one’s own team is encouraged.

4)      Throwing of debris, confetti or other objects from the stands is prohibited.

5)      Spectators should encourage each other to observe courteous behavior. Improper behavior should be reported to college authorities.

6)      Spectators will respect and obey all college officials and supervisors at athletic contests.

 

PROFANITY, RACIAL, ETHNIC OR SEXIST COMMENTS OR OTHER INTIMIDATING ACTIONS OR COMMENTS DIRECTED AT OFFICALS, STUDENT-ATHLETES, COACHES, TEAM REPRESENTATIVES, OR OTHER SPECTATORS WILL NOT BE TOLERATED AND ARE GROUNDS FOR REMOVAL FROM THE SITE OF COMPETITION.

 

Infractions and Penalties

 

For Student-Athletes involved in competition:

  • Ejection from a game, match or contest
  • Red card
  • Accumulation of four yellow cards (in the dissent, persistence, language and non-tactical unsporting behavior categories)
  • Accumulation of two technical fouls (non-administrative)
 

Any of the infractions listed above result in the following:

 

  1. 1.      One game/match suspension for the next contest.
  2. 2.      Student-athlete will have a conference with the head coach and athletic director.
  3. 3.      Student-athlete may be subject to sanctions by the SLIAC conference.
 

If the game is a “home” game, the student-athlete will not dress for competition and will support the team from the bench. If the game is an “away” game, the head coach will determine if the student-athlete is ineligible to travel. If permission to travel is allowed, the student-athlete will not dress for competition and will support the team from the bench.

 

In addition to previously mentioned college and SLIAC sanctions, student-athletes who continue to violate the rules and regulations regarding sportsmanship could be subject to any of the additional sanctions described below. Penalties are not limited to this list. If unsportsmanlike behavior persists, penalties may include:

 

  1. 1.      Student-athlete will be required to schedule a meeting with the Counseling Services and follow-through with any actions/activities resulting from that meeting.
  2. 2.      Student-athlete will be suspended for 10% of the total season contests effective immediately, which may include post season contest dates, and can carry over to the next season. If the student-athlete is a multi-sport participant, the suspension will continue into the next sport. For example, if a soccer/basketball student-athlete must sit out one contest due to an incident which occurred in the final soccer match, he/she will sit out the first basketball game (not a scrimmage or exhibition game). A student-athlete may not sign up for a sport in which they have not previously participated, in order to fulfill their suspension. Contests will be defined by the NCAA for each individual sport. Attendance and participation at practice during the suspension period will be required.
  3. 3.      Student-athlete will be suspended from all athletic participation for one calendar year from date of the offense. The student will be prohibited from attending any athletically related team activities (as defined by the NCAA) during the suspension period.
  4. 4.      Student-athlete will be suspended from all further intercollegiate athletic participation at Blackburn.
 

For Spectators at Home Athletic Contests:

 

A game day administrator and members of the Campus Safety and Security staff are present for each home athletic contest.  If a game day administrator or CSS staff member deems a fan’s behavior to be unsportsmanlike:

  1. The fan will be approached and warned about his/her behavior and asked to calm down/quiet down/etc. *
  2. If the same fan must be approached a second time during that contest, the fan will be escorted out of the athletic contest venue.
  3. If a fan must be removed from a second game, that fan will not be allowed to attend any of the contests for that sport for the remainder of the season.
  4. Repeated and continued unsportsmanlike conduct (being asked to leave 2 or more games or contests in a given year) from spectators may result in that fan being banned from attending any Blackburn athletic event.
 

*some situations may call for a fan to be immediately ejected from an athletic contest.  Examples of behavior leading to immediate ejection would include (but not be limited to):  physical aggression, verbal aggression (racial or sexual slurs), throwing items onto the area of active competition, possession of alcoholic beverages, etc.

 

Appeal Process

Blackburn Athletics reports to the Vice President & Dean of Student Life. Should a student or spectator wish to exercise their right to appeal these penalties (at any level) as defined and outlined above, the student has the right to appeal such actions to the VP & Dean of Student Life.

 

 

 

ATHLETIC CONTEST SCHEDULING

 

Coaches complete the scheduling for each season of competition.  Coaches must submit their proposed competition schedule to the Athletic Director.  The Athletic Director then presents those schedules to the membership of the Athletics Committee for final approval.  Proposed schedules must be formatted according to the template provided below and submitted to the Athletics Committee by the following deadlines:

  • No later than May 10 for the next fall competition schedule for men’s & women’s basketball, cross country, men’s & women’s soccer, and volleyball (*tennis & golf—see next section)
  • No later than October 1 for the next spring competition schedule for baseball, golf, softball, and tennis.
 

Split schedules:

  • The Golf team will typically have contests in both the fall & the spring seasons (split seasons).  Scheduling for these split season contests must be submitted to Athletics Committee according to the regular schedule listed in the section above* 
  • In the case of split schedules, no more than four (4) days of missed class time will be allowed during the fall season schedule.
 

Non-Traditional Season Schedules:

  • Limited competition is allowed in the non-traditional seasons with absolutely no missed classes.
  • Coaches must submit non-traditional season practice & contest schedules to the Athletics Committee by September 1 for fall schedules and by February 1 for spring schedules.
 

Other scheduling guidelines:

  • The number of scheduled contests in any season cannot exceed the limits set by the NCAA for each sport.
  • The Athletics Committee will evaluate all proposed schedule changes prior to their publication.
  • Any contest that must be re-scheduled cannot be finalized without the approval of the Athletic Director and/or the Athletics Committee.
  • After the Athletics Committee approves a contest schedule, no additional contests may be added without the approval of the entire Athletics Committee.
 

Scheduling Template (sample fill highlighted in gray):

 

2013-2014 BLACKBURN COLLEGE ____XXXXX SPORT ____ SCHEDULE

   

Day

Date

Opponent

Location

Game Time

Depart Time

Leave Class

Notes

Fri

11/15

Wheaton College Tnmt

Wheaton, IL

7:30 PM

1:30 PM

1:20 PM

 

Tues

11/19

Illinois College

Blackburn College

7:00 PM

     

Wed

12/4

Fontbonne University

St. Louis, MO

8:00 PM

4:30 PM

4:20 PM

SLIAC

Sat

12/7

Greenville College

Greenville, IL

3:00 PM

11:45 AM

 

SLIAC

Sat

12/14

Iowa Wesleyan College

Blackburn College

3:00 PM

   

SLIAC

               
         
                 
                 

Student-athletes may not leave class for home or away contests until the time designated on the template schedule provided above.

Departure times for Monday – Friday contests should not be 5 minutes prior to the end of a class session.  (ie. if classes end at 1:20, student athletes should not be asked to depart from class at 1:15—they need to wait until 1:20)

POLICY FOR ATHLETIC PRACTICES AND CONTESTS DURING DOUBLE INSTRUCTION PERIODS (aka FINAL EXAM PERIOD)

 

  • No regular season contests will be scheduled during double instruction periods
    • A special exception could be allowed, only with permission of the Athletic Committee, during the spring semester and only for conference make-up games within 1.5 hours of travel time from the College. Student-athletes are responsible for making arrangements with professors in advance of departure
  • The SLIAC defers to the institution in regard to rescheduling games and scheduling around make-up games
  • If double instruction periods are 4 consecutive days:
    • 2-1 hour practices (to be held on separate days) are allowed during the time between Monday (the day before double instruction sessions start) and the final double instruction period
    • Students are not allowed to miss class for practice
  • If double instruction periods are split by a weekend:
    • Coaches are limited to 2 practice times for no more than 2 hours each and only on days when no double instruction periods are scheduled.
  • Any Sunday practice should be concluded no later than 3:00 p.m.
 

POLICY FOR MID-YEAR NEW/TRANSFER STUDENT ATHLETES

 

In order to allow campus offices to complete their needed business in a timely fashion, the following will be required of student athletes arriving in January:

 
  • In order to move to campus and practice with the team on or around January 1:
 

Three (3) days prior to campus offices closing in December for the semester break, Blackburn must be in receipt of a transfer release statement from the institution the student athlete is transferring from AND the new student must:

  • Be accepted for admission
  • Have paid a tuition deposit (or have received a waiver of the tuition deposit from the Financial Aid office)
  • Be registered for the spring semester

By the last day of business in December, the coach would receive notification of the new student athlete’s transfer eligibility and his/her housing information.

 
  • All other new/transfer student-athletes enrolling in the spring semester must wait to arrive on campus & practice with the team until the regular “move in” day for all students.

 

ATHLETE HEALTH AND SAFETY

 

The Blackburn College Athletic Department employs licensed certified athletic trainers that are highly motivated health care professionals who provide quality medical services and assist in health, safety and productivity of student-athletes. Athletic trainers have a wide scope to their skill-set, providing value to the collegiate athletic setting through skills including:

  • Injury prevention and reduction
  • Moving student-athletes through appointment, evaluation and treatment process
  • Triage and taking patient histories
  • Performing evaluations and special tests
  • Rehabilitation and general patient education
  • Organizing notes and radiographic studies
  • Presenting final case reviews to physicians
  • Casting, splinting and brace fitting
  • Developing, explaining and demonstrating therapeutic and in-home exercise programs
  • Administration and documentation of medical documentation
  • Serving as an advocate for the best interest of the student-athlete

The Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team includes not only licensed certified athletic trainers, but board certified physicians and a student work staff. In doing so, a student-athlete centered team approach is taken with each individual case.

In addition to the Sports Medicine Team, all coaches are required to be certified in First Aid, CPR, and AED use.

Staff Documentation

Any standing orders, licensing or certification questions for the Blackburn College athletic trainers can be directed to the Blackburn College Director of Athletics and Recreation. Copies of current and active licensure and certification for athletic trainers are on file with the Director of Athletics and Recreation.

Service Population

  1. Blackburn College student-athletes: who are defined as those who are currently listed on the roster of a Blackburn College intercollegiate athletic team
  2. Student-athletes from other  institutions on the Blackburn College campus competing against a Blackburn College intercollegiate athletic team or participating in an NCAA sanctioned events held on the Blackburn College campus
  3. May provide triage and emergency treatment to other campus community members or visitors

Athletic Injury Care

  1. The Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team will perform any and all duties that are directly and/or indirectly related to the functions of a comprehensive athletic injury care program.
  2. The Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team is involved in the evaluation and treatment of possible injuries incurred by student-athletes and general medical conditions related to athletic participation. Student-athletes may receive supervision and guidance from several members of the Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team, directed by Blackburn’s Head Athletic Trainer.
  3. The Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team shall provide the injured athlete with immediate and temporary care, and when necessary, refer students for more advanced care. Thereafter, the Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team will administer any follow-up care necessary for the return of the student-athlete to full activity.
  4. As an integral part of the student-athlete centered, team approach to medical care of the athlete, the Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team assists in the prevention, correction or alleviation of pain, disability and deformity caused by injury.
  5. The Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team plans, organizes and administers tests, measurements and therapeutic modalities based upon a student-athlete centered approach.

Coordinated Care

Prior to each season of competition it is required that the Blackburn College coaching staff and the Blackburn College student-athletes will communicate with the Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team regarding standards, expectations, schedules, competitions and any other special requests or requirements.

Documentation

**UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE WILL ANY BLACKBURN COLLEGE STUDENT-ATHLETE BE ALLOWED TO PARTICIPATE IN PRACTICE OR COMPETITION UNTIL THE REQUIRED FORMS ARE COMPLETED PROPERLY AND ON FILE WITH THE BLACKBURN COLLEGE SPORTS MEDICINE TEAM.

Insurance

Primary insurance coverage is required by the NCAA.  Blackburn College carries a secondary insurance policy on all intercollegiate athletes. The Blackburn College policy calls for first filing all claims for an athletic injury against the policy of the parent/guardian and/or the individual athlete. After those resources have been exhausted, the College policy will be utilized in an attempt to complete payment of the remainder of the bills related to this injury. The athletic insurance policy only provides coverage secondary to the students/parents policy.

Medical History

Before the start of each team's formal practice sessions, each intercollegiate athlete competing for a Blackburn College athletic team will fill out a medical history form for the Blackburn College Sports Medicine Team. The purpose of this medical history form is to screen athletes before participation in a particular sport. At this time any limiting factors will be investigated. This paperwork is to help identify any special trait or problem that might lead to a medical condition during participation (example: diabetes, allergies, medications, etc.).

 

This information also provides emergency medical information and emergency contact numbers for each athlete. Athletes should go to the Sports Medicine website (http://www.blackburnbeavers.com/information/Athletic_Training/index) to find documentation that will need to be completed prior to their season. Once the forms are completed, it becomes a part of the athlete's permanent file in the athletic training office.

 

Each year the athlete will be required to update his/her information. All information remains on file for five years past the year of departure or graduation from Blackburn it is then destroyed. An athlete will not be allowed to participate in intercollegiate practices or competition until this updated, accurate information is on file with the Blackburn College Sports Medicine team.

 

 

Sickle Cell Trait Testing

 

What is Sickle Cell Trait?

Sickle cell trait is not a disease. Sickle cell trait is the inheritance of one gene for sickle hemoglobin and one for normal hemoglobin. Sickle cell trait will not turn into the disease. Sickle cell trait is a life-long condition that will not change over time.

  • During intense exercise, red blood cells containing the sickle hemoglobin can change shape from round to quarter-moon, or “sickle.”
  • Sickled red cells may accumulate in the bloodstream during intense exercise, blocking normal blood flow to the tissues and muscles.
  • During intense exercise, athletes with sickle cell trait have experienced significant physical distress, collapsed and even died.
  • Heat, dehydration, altitude and asthma can increase the risk for and worsen complications associated with sickle cell trait, even when exercise is not intense.
  • Athletes with sickle cell trait will not be excluded from participation when proper precautions are put into place.
 

The NCAA is requires colleges to conduct testing for this trait.  Beginning with the 2013-14 academic year, all student-athletes must provide either evidence of testing for this trait or a waiver of the required testing. If the waiver option is exercised please understand that there will be a required educational piece as mandated by the NCAA. The educational piece will be administered through the athletic training staff. Similar to all other paperwork, student-athletes will not be able to practice or compete until this information is submitted to and reviewed by the Blackburn College Sports Medicine team.

 

Concussion Policy

The management of sports-related concussion is an ever evolving process.  Recently there has been a significant amount of research into sports-related concussions in athletes.  This policy has been developed to outline procedures to be followed in the event a student-athlete at Blackburn College sustains a TBI (traumatic brain injury), otherwise known as a concussion. This policy also outlines procedures to be followed as it pertains to return to play issues following a concussion.

 

Blackburn College Athletic Training department continually seeks to provide a safe return to activity for all student-athletes following injury, particularly after a concussion.  These procedures have been developed in order to effectively and consistently manage these injuries, to aid in insuring that concussed athletes are identified, treated and referred appropriately, receiving appropriate follow-up medical care, academic assistance, and have made a full recovery prior to returning to activity.

 

Concussion Information

A concussion is a complex patho-physiologic process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces secondary to direct or indirect forces to the head.  A concussion is caused by a blow or jolt to the head that disrupts the function of the brain.  Concussions results in a wide range of physical, cognitive, emotional and/or sleep related symptoms.  Symptoms include but not limited to: headache, nausea, sensitivity to light/noise, fatigue, drowsiness, irritability, and feeling “slowed down” and or “foggy”.  The duration of symptoms is highly variable and may last from several minutes to days, weeks, months or even longer in some cases.

 

Second Impact Syndrome

Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) occurs when an athlete, who has already sustained a head injury, sustains a second head injury prior to complete resolution of symptoms.  This often occurs because a person has returned to participation too soon.  Most people do not realize that it may take days and weeks for concussion symptoms to resolve.  SIS will most likely affect young athlete (Jr/Sr high school); however, any athlete who returns to play too soon is a possible candidate. SIS is a very serious condition that has been linked to permanent brain damage and/or even death.

 

Management Plan for Suspected Concussion

A student-athlete with a suspected concussion will be evaluated by a Certified Athletic Trainer at the time of the injury.  Determination of return to play will be made by the Certified Athletic Trainer and/or Team Physician.

 

Coaches must report to the Certified Athletic Trainer on site if any athlete is showing signs or symptoms of a concussion so that the student-athlete can be evaluated.

 

Any student-athlete that has presented a positive concussion evaluation will be removed immediately from participation for the rest of the day or practice or contest. 

 

The physician (if on site) or certified athletic trainer will decide, based on present symptoms, if the student-athlete needs immediate referral for further medical attention.  If no immediate referral is necessary, the student-athlete will be sent home with care instruction to be given and followed by a responsible adult.  The athlete will follow-up with the medical staff in the athletic training room.

 

Emergency Action Plan

The following plan is to be implemented in the event of a serious injury incurred by a Blackburn College athlete.  This plan is to be implemented whether or a certified athletic trainer is present or not.  Please be familiar with the following general and specific plans.

 
  1. The first person to arrive should secure the scene and administer first aid.
  2. The first responder should keep the injured athlete quiet and as still as possible until help arrives; this could be a certified athletic trainer, EMS, or physician. The first responder should be alert to the possibility of the injured athlete going into shock.
    1. Shock (Taber’s Cyclopedic Medical Dictionary) a clinical syndrome marked by inadequate perfusion and oxygenation of cells, tissues, and organs, usually as a result of marginal or markedly lowered blood pressure.
      1.                                                               i.      Signs of shock include tachycardia, tachypnea, hypotension, and coll, clammy, or cyanotic skin.
  3. The highest ranking medical personnel are to take charge (ideally in this order: certified athletic trainer, senior student athletic trainers, and then coaches)
  4. Initial assessment is completed by and necessary duties are then delegated by the highest ranking medical personnel.
    1. If no medical personnel is there or available then evaluate the injured athlete to the best of your ability.  If you are not sure of the seriousness of the injury, stabilize the injured athlete and call 911.
    2. Send athletic training student worker or coach to phone 911.
    3. Have other coaches or game managers keep others away from scene.
  5. Stabilize the athlete and monitor ABC’s (airway, breathing and circulation)
  6. Individual assigned with calling 911 for help should follow the following procedures
    1. Dial 911 for an ambulance (on campus phone call 7-911)
    2. While on the phone with dispatcher
      1.                                                   i.      Give your name slowly and clearly
      2.                                                 ii.      Give the exact nature of the problem
      3.                                               iii.      Give the exact location (it is extremely important to have accurate directions to the location of the injured athlete and how to gain access to the field or building.  This will save in response time
      4.                                               iv.      Present any medical care that is presently being given (describe what has been done to help the victim)
      5.                                                 v.      Give the location where the EMS personnel will be met
      6.                                               vi.      Ask if/or what additional information may be needed
      7.                                             vii.      Answer all questions completely, directly and accurately
      8.                                           viii.      Be the last person to hang up.  Wait for the 911 dispatcher to hang up before you do.
      9. Report back to the person in charge
  7. Designate someone to meet the ambulance in the parking lot area and to direct the EMT’s to the injured person
  8. Once the ambulance and paramedics arrive on scene, the EMT’s assume responsibility for the injured athlete.  The role of the athletic trainer becomes one of assisting the EMT’s

The Unconscious Athlete

  1. Immediately note the position of the athlete’s body and determine the level of consciousness and unresponsiveness.

10.  The athlete’s airway, breathing and circulation should be established immediately and continuously monitored; look for signs of labored/normal breathing and signs or normal coloration or discoloration of the skin. Continue to check the status of the athlete on a regular basis until a medical professional arrives.

11.  Designate an individual to call EMS, 911 (7-911 from a campus phone) be sure to include the following.

  1. Give your name slowly and clearly
  2. Give the exact nature of the problem (type of suspected injury)
  3. Describe the present condition of the athlete
  4. Describe the current care that is being administered
  5. Give your exact location and the exact location of the emergency, giving specific directions if needed
  6. Give location of where the EMS personnel will be met
  7. Ask if there is any additional information needed
  8. Be the last person to hang up, make sure the dispatcher hangs up first

12.  Remember that an injury to the neck and spine is always possible with an unconscious athlete

13.  Athlete is supine (on their back) and not breathing, establish airway, breathing and circulation immediately

14.  Athlete is supine (on their back) and breathing, monitor ABC’s and do nothing until athlete regains consciousness or EMS arrives

15.  Athlete is prone (laying face down) and not breathing, log roll the athlete carefully to supine position and establish ABC’s immediately

16.  Athlete is prone  (laying face down) and breathing,  monitor ABC’s, do nothing till athlete regains consciousness, and wait for EMS to arrive

17.  Monitor and maintain life support for the unconscious athlete until EMS arrives

18.  Once the athlete has been stabilized secondary survey of injuries begins; to determine if any other injuries are present (i.e. breaks, obvious deformity of a limb, bleeding, etc)

 

How to Get to ………………

Dawes Gymnasium/Athletic Training Room

-          EMS enters off College Avenue into the main campus drive and follows around to the building.  On the south side of the building, EMS will be met at the ground level doors

Soccer Game Field

-          EMS enters north stadium drive from University Street, and is met at the gate entrance to the drive.

Soccer Practice Field

-          EMS enters north stadium drive from University Street, and is met at the gate entrance to the drive.

Baseball/Softball fields

-          EMS enters north stadium drive from University Street and follows drive straight toward fields and is met at the south end of the track to proceed to baseball/softball fields

 

Transportation of student-athlete

-          Transportation for injured student-athletes needing to go to the emergency room can occur through car transportation.  The driver of the vehicle assumes responsibility for the safety of the athlete.  If there is a risk of further injury occurring to the student-athlete through car transportation then call 911.

-          Personal cars may only be used in a situation of a non-life threatening injury or stable injury.  Any injury deemed unstable or life-threatening must be transported by ambulance.

-          All unstable or life-threatening injuries should be taken to Carlinville Area Hospital

-          Remember while waiting on the ambulance

  • Stabilize the athlete
  • Continue to monitor their ABC’s (airway, breathing, and circulation)
  • Assign someone to meet the ambulance
  • Maintain control of the scene

Weather Safety/Emergencies

General Policy

In the case of inclement weather (i.e.Thunderstorms/Lightning, Hail, Hurricane, Tornado), it will be the discretion of the Certified Athletic Trainer, and if the trainer is not present, the on-site Coach to determine if the practice/game fields should be evacuated. Exceptions will be made for golf and cross country, where the head coach will have to suspend activity in the absence of an Athletic Training staff member.

Lightning

Lightning is very dangerous. The athletic training staff has developed a lightning policy to minimize the risk of injury from lightning strike to Blackburn College athletes, coaches, support staff and fans. To monitor lightning the Athletic Training Staff will utilize both the Flash-Bang method (Described further in point #3 below) and a Lightning Detector. Athletic teams that practice and compete outdoors are at risk when the weather is inclement. The following NCAA guidelines must be observed if it appears that lightning is possible for the area:

  1. If inclement weather is forecasted for the area or sighted in the area, a certified athletic trainer will get a weather update via the National Weather Service in St. Louis, Missouri by telephone or internet. The phone number is 636-441-8467 then dial 0 for an operator. Internet sites are as follows:

http://www.crh.noaa.gov/lsx/
http://www.accuweather.com/
http://www.lightningsafety.com/

  1. Lighting detectors will be situated on the outside fields during the possibility of inclement weather. If lighting is detected and the severe weather signal is illuminated, with two subsequent readings within 30 seconds on the detector at 3-8 mile range regardless of the presence of visible lightning, all athletes and personnel must evacuate the fields and/ tennis courts and seek shelter. The nearest safe shelter is the DCC or Dawes/Gymnasium for soccer and tennis, and VAC for baseball and softball.
  2. If the lightning detector is not present, use the countdown or "Flash Bang" method. To use the Flash Bang method, count the seconds from the time lightning/flash is sighted to when the clap/bang of thunder is heard, divide this number by 5 and it equals how far away (in miles) the lightning is occurring. This calculation allows for a reasonably accurate estimate of how far away the lightening occurred. For example, 20 second count = 4 miles). As a minimum, the NCAA and the National Severe Storms laboratory (NSSL), strongly recommend that all individuals have left the athletic site and reach a safe location by the flash-to-bang count of 30 seconds (6 miles). However, lightning can strike as far as 10 miles and it does not have to rain for lightning to strike. Calculation – if the calculation results in an estimate that lightening has occurred within the 8 mile or 40 second rage, the field will be evacuated.  
  3. If lightning is in the immediate area, the certified athletic trainer will notify the head coach as to the status of the inclement weather and of the need to take shelter. Teams may return to the field once the lightning detector has detected no activity in the 3-8 mile range or 30 minutes from last sight of lightning.
  4. If no safe structure is within a reasonable distance, then other safe areas include: enclosed buildings, fully enclosed metal vehicles with windows up (no convertibles or golf carts Unsafe shelter areas: water, open fields, dugouts, golf carts, metal objects (bleachers, fences, etc.), individual tall trees, light poles. AVOID BEING THE HIGHEST OBJECT IN AN OPEN FIELD. ***Athletes/coaches etc. should not stand in groups or near a single tree. There should be 15 feet between individuals when outdoors.

Note: sports with metal equipment. Golfers should drop their clubs and remove shoes, baseball/softball drop bats and remove shoes, tennis drop rackets.

If unable to reach safe shelter, assume a crouched position on the ground with only the balls of the feet touching the ground, wrap your arms around your knees and lower your head. Minimize contact with the ground, because lightning current often enters the victim through the ground rather than by a direct overhead strike. Do not lie flat. If safe shelter is only a short distance away, it has been suggested to run for shelter, rather than stay in the middle of the field.

  1. If a person feels that his/her hair standing on end, they should immediately crouch as described in item # 5. If someone is struck by lightning, activate the Emergency Action Plan. A person struck by lightning does not carry an electrical charge; immediately initiate the EAP and begin the primary survey. If possible, move the victim to a safe location.
  2. Avoid using the telephone except in emergency situations. People have been struck by lightning while using a land-line phone. A cellular phone or a portable phone is a safe alternative to land-line phones, if the person and the antenna are located within a safe structure, and if all other precautions are followed.

Event Procedures

Prior to Competition: A member of the Athletic Training staff will greet the officials, explain that we have means to monitor lightning, and offer to notify the officials during the game if there is imminent danger from the lightning.

Announcement of Suspension of Activity: Once it is determined that there is danger of a lightning strike, the Athletic Training staff member will notify the head coach and official and subsequently summon athletes (via horn or whistle) from the playing field or court. The Game Day Manager will notify spectators and student staff of game suspension and where to take shelter.

Evacuation of the playing field: Immediately following the announcement of suspension of activity all athletes, coaches, officials and support personnel are to evacuate to an enclosed grounded structure (DCC/Gymnasium/Locker rooms).

Evacuation of the stands: During competition once the official signals to suspend activity, a member of the Sports Information staff will announce via the PA system “May I have your attention. We have been notified of approaching inclement weather. Activity will cease until we have determined it is safe and the risk of lightning is diminished. We advise you to seek appropriate shelter at the following areas: DCC Lobby/Dawes Gymnasium. Though protection from lightning is not guaranteed, you may seek shelter in an automobile. Thank you for your cooperation.”  Blackburn Security and game day management will help direct spectators to the nearest safe shelter.

Resumption of Activity: Activity may resume once a member of the Athletic Training staff gives permission. Thirty (30) minutes AFTER the last lightning strike or activity using the Flash-Bang-Method and Two consecutive readings of the lightning detector at the 20-40 miles away range and no activity in the 3-8 mile range.

Lightning Detection Procedures for Non-Supervised Activities:

Ex. Athletes using facilities in the off season or outside of regular practice hours. No method of lightning detection can detect every strike nor is prevention from lighting a guarantee. However, individuals are encouraged to follow the Flash-Bang-Method to monitor the approximation of lightning.

 Tornados

The athletic trainer shall monitor the National Weather Service during times of potentially severe weather.  Weather announcements for Carlinville and central Macoupin County are available by enrolling in the City of Carlinville’s Nixel notification system. 

When a tornado warning is issued, the city emergency siren will also sound.  Should a warning be issued and/or the warning siren sound, practice or play should be suspended immediately.  During practices, the athletic trainer or coach will immediately notify the team members to seek safe shelter inside a structure

Follow College Emergency Response Plan (Located on the back of doors in all buildings). Go to an inner wall and away from glass or windows.  Go to the lowest level available to include a basement.  Take cover under a table or desk if possible.

Heat Index/High Humidity

During summer and early fall and late spring, high temperatures and high humidity are present. It is important to be aware of the dangers of this situation to prevent heat exhaustion and/illness. (See Heat Index below). Daily measurements via thermometer are taken before each practice during periods of extreme heat and humidity.

  1. If temperatures range from 80 degrees to 90 degrees, fatigue is possible with prolonged exposure.
  2. Between 90 and 105 degrees, sunstroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion are possible.
  3. When heat index climbs to 105 to 130 degrees sunstroke, heat cramps, and heat exhaustion are likely and heat stroke is possible with prolonged exposure.
  4. At 130 degrees or higher sunstroke or heatstroke are highly likely with continued exposure to sun.
  5. If heat index reaches 105 and 130 extreme caution must be taken and practice(s) may be postponed to a cooler part of day (6-10 am, or 4-7 PM).

TEAM TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

 

It is the intent of the athletic department to provide safe and efficient travel for students, staff & coaches. While on the road, the traveling party will be representing Blackburn College & should set an example of punctuality, neat dress, proper vocabulary and manners.

 

Whenever possible, Blackburn athletic teams will utilize Blackburn Motor Pool to meet their transportation needs.  The Blackburn fleet consists of a 46 passenger bus, 24 passenger bus (both buses require one of the college’s bus drivers to drive the bus), three vans capable of transporting no more than 10 passengers, 2 minivans capable of transporting 6 passengers, and a compact car capable of transporting 4 passengers.

 

The current charges for Motor Pool Vehicles are:

Buses                           $1.10 per mile

Large vans                        .55 per mile

Mini-vans                         .35 per mile

 

It is the responsibility of the coaching staff to notify Motor Pool of their transportation needs as early as possible.  The Motor Pool Department Vehicle Request Form shall be completed for each reservation requested (forms are available in the Physical Plant /Motor Pool Office or on the S drive under Motor Pool--public).  The Request Form can be submitted directly to the Motor Pool office in paper or electronic form.  The request shall include the following information:

 

Total number of people travelling

  • Destination
  • Date and time of departure and return
  • Type and number of vehicles requested
  • Any special details such as addresses of events, hotels, and a schedule of events throughout the trip
 

Should there be a conflict due to more than one request for Motor Pool services for the same date (ie.  Men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, and cross country all travelling on the same date), it will be the responsibility of the coaches to inform Motor Pool what team will have first priority.  Generally, the largest team will receive the largest vehicle.  Motor Pool vehicles will be awarded on a first come, first served basis.

 

Should Motor Pool be unable to supply the needed vehicles, athletics may request one of the alternate forms of transportation:

  • Private motor coach
  • Vehicles up to 15 passenger vans – through Enterprise Car Rental in Litchfield, IL
  • Macoupin County Public Transportation –  (generally limited to trips of 100 miles one way)   
 
 

While travelling and utilizing either of the Motor Pool buses, the bus driver shall be provided meals for the duration of the trip.  Should the travel require an overnight stay, the bus driver shall also be provided a room for each night away.  While travelling, the driver will be responsible to the team’s head coach.

 

Should the vehicle have mechanical issues, the driver shall call the Director of Physical Plant (217-204-8575).  If the Director in unavailable, call the Physical Plant Professional on Call:  (217-556-1211) to report the problem.  Should the vehicle be involved in an accident, the driver should immediately call the local police or 911 to report the accident.  The Director of Physical Plant and the Athletic Director shall also be notified.

 

Prior to departing Blackburn College for travel, it is the head coach’s responsibility to complete a Travel Roster sheet (forms are available in the Physical Plant/Motor Pool Office).  The sheet shall have the name of each person travelling in the vehicle, and list the organization/team name, date, destination, person responsible, driver, and vehicle number.  The Travel Roster must be left with Jack Bettis, Supervisor of Motor Pool prior to departure.  The roster may be placed in the mailbox outside Physical Plant if it is after normal business hours.

 

Anyone driving a Motor Pool vehicle must be an approved driver.  The process for becoming an approved driver involves passing a drivers’ license check and on-line training and testing.  Applicants may also be required to complete a hands-on driving course. The approval process begins by submitting appropriate paperwork and copy of drivers’ license to Melissa Jones, Ludlum 215.

 

Student athletes cannot drive Motor Pool vehicles to or from athletic contests.  Rare exceptions may only be made through the Athletic Director’s office.  To ensure the safety of Blackburn’s student-athletes and staff, Blackburn Athletics will take buses with professional drivers as frequently as possible. When coaches/students (all of whom must be on the approved college drivers listing maintained in the Motor Pool office) are driving Blackburn Motor Pool vehicles, they must ensure the mileage sheet is completed and returned to Motor Pool by the next business day.  Keys shall be turned in with the mileage slip.  Prior to returning the vehicle, the driver shall check the interior to ensure all personal property has been removed, as well as all trash has been properly disposed of.  If the vehicle has not been cleaned out, a fine will be assessed to the department billed for the mileage.  The driver shall also complete a walk around of the vehicle prior to each time driving.  The driver should look for any damage, tire inflation, or lights that may not be working.

 

When travelling for extended lengths of time, drivers are strongly encouraged to stop and take a break every three hours.  The driver will abide by the rules set forth in the Vehicle Fleet Management Plan.  These rules include obeying all traffic laws, not using a phone or other personal communication device while driving, and ensuring everyone is wearing a seatbelt at all times the vehicle is in motion.  At no time will anyone drive a Blackburn vehicle after consuming alcohol or under the influence of illegal drugs, or when being impaired by the use of prescription medication.

 

Use of Personal Vehicles for Travel

 

Blackburn coaching staff will ride with the team to and from athletic events.  Coaching staff will remain with the team for the duration of the trip.  Any exception must receive prior approval of the Athletic Director.   Should coaching staff receive approval to use either a separate Blackburn vehicle or rental vehicle for travel, or be paid mileage for use of their personal vehicle, the same rules noted above apply regarding driving under the influence or after consuming alcohol. 

 

The use of personal vehicles being used by student-athletes is not allowed for travel to and from athletic events.  The only exception may be when a player is travelling to an area where it may be closer to his/her home, and they are going home for time off following the athletic event.  This exception must be approved in advance by the head coach and Athletic Director.  The student/athlete must submit “A Permission to Travel To/From College Sponsored event In a Private Vehicle” form and receive prior approval in writing (forms are available in the Motor Pool Office or on the Shared “S” drive).

 

FUNDRAISING

 
  1. General Guidelines for Athletic Department and program fundraising
    1. Each sport will have a minimum expectation of participating in at least 2 annual fundraising projects (coaches can choose to do more).  One of the projects that can be counted in the minimum expectation is the Homecoming Beaver Backer Golf Outing.  
    2. 10% of total revenues for any individual sport fundraiser will be placed in a department-wide/general athletics fundraising account (the Beaver Backer’s fund). Monies in this account will be distributed on an annual basis (after a three year period to build the fund) for items and projects that haven’t been funded through operational budgets, are emergency needs, or are used for department-wide staff professional development.  Final approval for a withdrawal from this restricted account must come from a joint decision of the Athletic Director and the VPSA.  Decisions will be based on an equitable support of all sports.
      1.                                                               i.      Athletic staff members may submit a proposal for a withdrawal from the Beaver Backer’s fund.  Proposals go to the Athletic Director for consideration.
      2.                                                             ii.      And/or: Each year the Athletic Director will confer with coaching staff and the VPSA to establish a priority list of what could or should be purchased from the Beaver Backer’s fund for that year.
      3. Each coach will be expected to develop his/her program’s annual fundraising plan.  The plan will be shared with the Athletic Director during the spring/early summer prior to the beginning of the fiscal year’s budget. The outline should include start dates for particular sales or mailing dates. Note:  No fundraiser should be planned where the College or student-athletes are expected to pay for products; any items sold should be paid for by the purchaser in advance. Operational budgets should never be used to cover fundraising costs.
      4. Department wide fundraisers, such as the Homecoming Beaver Backer Golf Outing, will split the revenues with the Beaver Backer’s fund.  Initially, as the fund begins to build, the split will be 30% of the revenue going to the temporarily restricted account for fundraising, 70% will be utilized for budget relief in the Athletic Director’s budget. It is expected that all staff members will participate in the departmental fundraising.
      5. The Process
        1. How to account for incoming funds
          1.                                                               i.      90% of funds must be deposited into each sport’s fundraising account—labeled as 120-4028-XXXX-9900.  4028 is the revenue general ledger number and XXXX is the sport’s departmental account number.
          2.                                                             ii.      10% of funds must be deposited into Beaver Backer’s fund:  account # 120-4028-XXXX-9900 (the Athletic Director must be aware of and track these deposits).
          3.                                                           iii.      In concert with item I.c. above, each coach must have a plan discussed with the Athletic Director regarding the fundraising strategy and intent for the revenue.
          4.                                                           iv.      Any fundraised dollars that aren’t used in the current fiscal year will necessitate a written summary from the coach outlining how the funds will be used in the future.  This summary must be shared with the Athletic Director, VPSA, & the VPAF.
          5. Determine how fundraising revenue will be spent
            1. Fundraised funds will be in what is called a temporarily restricted account and will carry over from one budget year to the next.
            2. If operating budgets are over-expended the sport’s temporarily restricted account for fundraising will be accessed to meet the over-expenditure.
            3. If an operating budget is over-expended in one fiscal year budget but there are insufficient fundraised monies to cover the over-expenditure; the following year an amount equal to the previous year’s over-expenditure will be held in the sport’s temporarily restricted account for fundraising to cover in case of the same situation.
            4. No funds will be withdrawn or transferred from any fundraising account without the approval of the VPSA.
            5. Any money received should be taken to Mary McMurray for tax documentation and deposit in the Business Office.
            6. Saving funds for major trips/projects
              1.                                                               i.      Establish fundraising plan to cover the cost of the project in question. The plan should outline all of the revenue generating projects; solicitation letters, sale of products, donor gifts, guarantees, etc.
              2.                                                             ii.      For each fundraising strategy a fundraising form must be filled out and approved by the VPAF. The fundraising forms submitted must align with the fundraising plan established. Additionally, the plan should outline any expenses that might be attributed to the fundraising effort (i.e. if it is a cookout, what will the costs of food, advertising, drinks, and paper products be?).

*Any solicitation letter must be submitted with the fundraising form to ensure the VPAF and VPIA can edit for grammar and content. Please provide a list of individuals, vendors, or local businesses the letter is intended for.  That list will need approval as well.

  1.                                                           iii.      Included in the documentation for fundraising should be the appropriate general ledger account numbers. This must be established through the Business Office in advance of executing the fundraising plan
  2.                                                           iv.      It must be clear where the funds will go. If staff members are uncertain about where funds should be placed, ask the Athletic Director for assistance.
  3. Communicating with Advancement regarding fundraising – Any fundraising plan needs to be approved through the Advancement Office to determine a plan of action for gift receipts and/if solicitations are being made to local businesses and/or alumni.
    1. Gifts to the program that should receive a tax receipt letter from Blackburn:
      1.                                                               i.      Solicitation of funds from family, friends, businesses, or alumni where no goods or services were exchanged
      2.                                                             ii.      Any exchange of goods where the sale price exceeds the actual cost of the product. Donors should receive a gift receipt for the difference in sale price versus the actual cost to the program
      3.                                                           iii.      In-kind Gifts - In-kind goods and services are typically goods and services that the organization would have to otherwise buy if not donated. The value of the donated supplies or services may be recorded as the amount that the organization would have to pay for similar items.
        1. In-kind Gifts should be acknowledged through the Advancement Office to ensure the donor receives appropriate tax documentation
        2. When possible, donors should be thanked for their generosity through a personal note from the coach with team signatures
        3. Setting up a fundraiser---after being discussed and approved by the Athletic Director
          1. Documents that require institutional approval (fundraising forms, etc) should be submitted NO LATER than one month prior to the event or start date of the sale of items.
            1.                                                               i.      Approval of the fundraising document is required by the Business Office/VPAF and the VPIA. Fundraising documents should be emailed to the VPAF and the VPIA jointly. Each entity will need to approve the fundraising plan. If approval is not received two weeks prior to the start of the fundraiser or event, contact the Athletic Director for help in determining the status of the approval.
            2.                                                             ii.      Confirmation of the approval will be emailed from the VPs to the individual in charge of the event/sale prior to the start. The quicker the fundraising forms can be submitted, the sooner approval can be relayed
            3.                                                           iii.      Fundraising must have approval BEFORE it is started
            4.                                                           iv.      Solicitation of funds from alumni or Friends of Blackburn must be approved through Advancement prior to “the ask.” Collaboration with the Development Office must happen in order to ensure the needs of the College are met.
            5. Events that require the use of College facilities may require coordination with other offices.  Coaches should contact the Director of Auxiliary Services to secure a date and coordinate event details.
            6. Budgets     
              1. Operating budgets provided by the College will be kept separate from fundraising accounts (operating budgets begin with the first 3 numbers as 100; temporarily restricted or fundraised budgets begin with the first 3 numbers as 120)
              2. Should a program overspend the allotted operating budget the overage will be deducted from the fundraising account (see II. b. 2. above)
              3. Any extended trip must be funded through fundraised monies with the exception of meals for the team on the trip.  Those meals may be calculated into and funded by the operating budget.
              4. The Athletic Director and the VPSA, in consultation with the VPAF, reserve the right to amend the fundraising policies & practices of the department to more actively facilitate equity of raised and spent funds across all programs in keeping with the guidelines set forth by Title IX. 
 

Glossary of Terms:

 

Operating Budget:  the annual budget provided by the College to each department intended to cover expenses associated with operating that department for the fiscal year.  Operating budgets run on the cycle of the fiscal year---they begin on July 1 and end on June 30. 

Temporarily restricted account:  these are fundraising accounts.  The balance is provided by fundraised revenue.  These accounts are allowed to carry over balances from one fiscal year to the next but there must be a written plan for what the carried over fund is intended to finance.

VPAF: Vice President for Administration & Finance

VPIA: Vice President for Institutional Advancement

VPSA: Vice President & Dean of Student Affairs

 

BUDGETING/PURCHASING/EQUIPMENT

 

Budgeting

Each fall all members of the athletics staff develop budget requests for the following academic year.  The preparation of the budget includes the completion of the “Blackburn Sport’s Budget Calculator” which details the basic funding needs for each sports team.

 

The “Athletic Department Budgeting Guidelines” shown below reviews general rules used by coaches in developing budget requests.

 

The following should be used to guide purchases and expenses within the department:

 
  1. Meals—Maximum meal costs per individual:
  • Breakfast - $6.00
  • Pre-Game/Lunch - $8.00
  • Post-Game/Dinner –$ 11.00
  • Total for 1 day per person - $25.00
  1. Shoes—placed in B section of operating expenses budget request (form E)
  • Price will vary according to sport:  $75 - $100 +/-
  1. Dues – amount specific to association membership—placed in A section of form E
  2. Conventions—National Coaches Convention Attendance—placed in B section of form E
  • $750 maximum dependent on lodging, site, etc
  1. Coaches Apparel—placed in B section of form E--$100 maximum per program
  2. Lodging – Three to a room maximum without prior approval @ $94.00 (including tax)  per night
  3. Uniforms—New uniforms sets may only be ordered after 3 years minimum
  • The bid process should be followed                                                                                 

 

 

Purchasing

  • Purchase Requisitions can be completed on-line in order to get Purchase Orders (and a P.O. #) for an approved “charged” purchase of items
  • Check Requests are completed to allow individuals to be written a check for services (ie. officials)
    • There is a two week advance time required for both check requests and P.O.s
  • When invoices are received for purchased items the invoice should be signed, the P.O. number should be listed under the signature, and they should be delivered to the campus business office
  • Purchases can be made at the local Wal-Mart store with a purchase order, a Wal-Mart card & a tax exempt card (both of which can be checked out of the business office).  After the purchase, return both cards, and the receipt---with the signature and account # on it to the Business Office.
  • Each coach is issued a credit card for the main purpose of use on road trips.  Credit card purchases for general supplies or equipment should be avoided unless a vendor is willing to allow for our tax exempt status
    • Prior to departing on any extended trip or trip out-of-state the coach should contact personnel in the campus accounts payable office to facilitate communication with the credit card company to alert the company to out-of-state travel and large credit card charges.
    • ALL credit card charges must be reconciled with a receipt.
  • Each sport has its own budget and its own copy code for making copies on the Dawes copier.  Coaches should safe guard their budget numbers and copy codes to avoid misuse.
  • Use of personal money for college purchases is discouraged and should only occur when absolutely necessary.  The amount of the purchase can only be reimbursed with a formal receipt.
  • Copies should be made of all expense reports and receipts prior to submitting these reports to the campus Business Office

 

Extended trips

Some athletic teams take extended trips---defined as “Trips for competition that fall outside of 350 miles from campus or are greater than two (2) nights in duration.” These trips may take place over fall, winter or spring break.  Coaches must plan these trips well in advance---especially for budgeting purposes.  Meals for these trips will be paid from the college budgeting process but transportation and hotel accommodations must be covered from either fundraised monies or paid for by individual student-athletes.

 

Equipment

Each year student-athletes receive department issued equipment which is to be used during the sport season. Students are required to complete a check list of equipment issued to them. The list will be kept on file by the coach and the student-athlete will be accountable for any item issued by the team.

Students will be responsible to return issued equipment at the conclusion of the sport season.

Students who do not return all issued equipment will have a “hold” placed on their academic records until the equipment is returned or the replacement cost is provided to the College.

 

Uniform Replacement Policy/Schedule:

New uniforms sets are scheduled for replacement after 3 years minimum.  Due to the monetary amount of full team replacement uniforms, the bid process should be followed.

 

Baseball+

Men’s Basketball

Women’s Basketball

Cross Country *

Golf

Home

Away

Home

Away

Home

Away

shorts

jerseys

Home and Away

2004-05

2011-12

2006-07¹

2008-09²

2012-13²

2007-08

2013-14

2008-09

2014-15

2009-10

2012-13

 

2009-10

2014-15

2010-11

2011-12

1 team polo purchased annually for each SA

 
 

Men’s Soccer

Women’s Soccer <

Softball

Tennis ^

Volleyball #

Home

Away

Home

Away

Home

Away

Tops

Skorts

Home

Away

2008-09

2013-14

2008-09

2013-14

2008-09

2013-14

2008-09

2013-14

2009-10

2012-13

2009-10

2012-13

2011-12

2009-10

2012-13

2013-14

2010-11

2013-14

 

+= Baseball-- ¹pants only; ²jerseys only; annually will replace 2-6 pair of damaged pants

*= Cross Country--warm up tops and bottoms purchased in 2012-13

^= Tennis--jacket/pant sweats purchased in 2010-11

<= Women’s Soccer—jerseys purchased in 13-14; 1 pair shorts/SA purchased in 2014-15

#= Volleyball--bottoms/spandex 1 pair purchased annually for each SA; home jerseys purchased in 12-13

            were not aligned with NCAA by-laws

 

SPORTS INFORMATION

 

The Sports Information Office collects and reports game statistics, maintains the athletics website, and manages public relations and media for the Athletics Department. 

 

Either at the beginning of the academic semester or one month prior to the first game of the season each coach must provide the Sports Information Director with pre-season rosters (and again at mid-season) & the competition schedule for their sport.  This information will be posted on the athletics website and shared with the Provost’s Office for the “official class absence” list and to the Registrar for creating rosters for grading purposes.

 

ATHLETICS COMMITTEE

 

This campus committee is comprised of the Athletic Director, the Vice President for Student Life, 2 faculty members (one male and one female; one of whom is the NCAA Faculty Athletic Representative—the FAR), the Senior Woman Administrator in Athletics, and 2 student-athletes.  The committee determines the policies governing intercollegiate athletics and makes recommendations to the Faculty Assembly; advises the Athletic Director on intercollegiate athletic schedules and related matters.

 

STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COMMITTEE

 

The student-athlete advisory committee (SAAC) is comprised of one student-athlete from each of the 11 intercollegiate teams that Blackburn College sponsors. The group meets with its advisor as needed but usually twice a month. SAAC serves as a local student-athlete voice in addressing issues of student-athlete welfare at Blackburn College through promotion of communication between athletic administration, student-athletes, and the college community. SAAC works to promote a positive student-athlete image on campus, create a vehicle for student-athlete representation, organize community service efforts, serve as a conduit for communication among teams, and build a sense of community within all athletic programs. The group is involved not only on campus but also at the conference level and at the national level.

 

COACHING EVALUATIONS & TIME REPORTS

 

At the conclusion of each season, student-athletes are expected to complete a brief evaluation.

This evaluation covers each student’s impression on his or her season, the team’s success, the

coaching staff and the department. This evaluation is an opportunity to offer feedback by highlighting what student-athletes appreciate and what they would like to see improved. The evaluation of coaches is an important indication of the effectiveness of work with students.

 

Each coach will also receive an annual performance evaluation—written by the Athletic Director and discussed with each coach in a private meeting.

 

Each month the Business Office requires all employees of the college to submit a monthly report of sick and vacation days taken.  These forms are available in the Business Office and must be signed by the coach and the Athletic Director.

 

GENDER EQUITY

 

Each year the Athletics Department conducts a review of expenditures in compliance with NCAA and Federal requirements. This annual report is on file in the Athletic Department and can be viewed by request.

 

CUT POLICY

 

As an NCAA Division III member, Blackburn College encourages athletic participation by all students. However, Blackburn is a competitive collegiate athletic program and reserves the right to determine squad size based on the level, knowledge, experience of students who wish to participate, and student athlete behavior, attitude, academic & campus work performance, as well as space and budget factors.

 

EADA DISCLOSURE

 

The Equity in Athletics Disclosure Act is available for all current and prospective student

athletes to view. A paper copy of the report is available by request, in writing, at the Athletic Department. It can also be found on-line at: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KhBKu74LdiSp5yoZ7wjzV6Omwp9PI4xshFzHjGbkAXo/edit

 

ATHLETIC AWARDS AND RECOGNITION

 

Players are recognized for their years of participation as well as for team and coach selected individual awards. 

 

Each Spring there is a campus-wide Honors Banquet when the following athletic awards are given: All awards are determined by vote of the coaches.

 

The Drew Thurston Memorial Award:  Presented to the junior male student who has exemplified outstanding qualities of citizenship and scholarship, and who has earned an athletic letter award.

 

The Marion Carlson Athletic Award: Presented to the junior female student who has exemplified outstanding qualities of citizenship, scholarship, sportsmanship and athletic ability.

 

The B-Man and B-Woman Awards: Presented to the senior male and female student-athletes that best exemplify the meaning of a Blackburn College Student-Athlete.  Items considered for candidacy include contribution to the athletic department at Blackburn, all-conference performance, academic performance, all around campus citizenship.

 

Athletic Academic Achievement Awards for Each Sport.  Presented to the student athletes in each sport with at least sophomore standing who have earned at least a minimum of a 3.0 cumulative grade point average.

 

The All Conference Sportsmanship Awards

 

Chi Alpha Sigma: Student-athletes may also be recognized by an invitation to join Chi Alpha Sigma—the National College Athlete Honor Society which recognizes college student-athletes who earn a varsity letter in at least one sport while maintaining a 3.4 or higher cumulative GPA throughout their junior and senior years

 

 

St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

 

CONFERENCE OFFICE

Dick Kaiser Commissioner

St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference

15620 Manchester Road, Suite 22

Ellisville, MO 63011

Phone - (314) 301-8900

Cell – (217) 851-4814

Fax - (314) 677-1989

 

MEMBERS

 

BLACKBURN COLLEGE (217) 854-5694

700 College Ave; Rob Steinkuehler, AD

Carlinville, IL 62626

 

EUREKA COLLEGE (309) 467-6370

300 E College Ave; Bryan Moore, AD

Eureka, IL 61530

 

FONTBONNE COLLEGE (314) 889-1444

6800 Wydown Blvd; Maria Eftink, AD

St. Louis, MO 63105

 

GREENVILLE COLLEGE (618) 664-6620

315 E. College Ave; Tom Ackerman, AD

Greenville, IL 62246

 

PRINCIPIA COLLEGE (618) 374-5030

1 Maybeck Place; Ann Pierson, AD

Elsah, IL 62028

 

SPALDING UNIVERSITY (502) 585-9911

824 South 4th; Roger Burkman, AD

Louisville, KY 40203

 

WEBSTER UNIVERSITY (314) 968-6984

470 E. Lockwood; Scott Kilgallon, AD

St. Louis, MO 63119

 

WESTMINSTER COLLEGE (573) 592-5301

501 Westminster Ave; Matt Mitchell, AD

Fulton, MO 65251

 
 
 

 

 

 


[1] The term student-athlete in this document refers to all of the following entities:  student-athlete, student athletic trainer, student statisticians, student team managers, student coaches, and any other students associated with a team in a support capacity.