Download Letter from the Director of Athletics

Letter from the Director of Athletics
Dear American International College Student-Athlete:
Welcome to all entering freshman, transfers, and returning student-athletes. I am
personally looking forward to meeting and watching you compete as an American
International College Yellow Jacket.
American International College strives for excellence and balance in both academic and
athletic programs. Your dual role as a student and an athlete requires that you become
well versed in academic as well as athletic policies and procedures. This handbook,
therefore, is an on-going effort to communicate with each other as we work together
toward that common goal of excellence in the classroom and on the playing field.
The Department of Athletics is committed to your academic and athletic success.
Successes in recent years, both in the classroom and in competition, validate the support
you can expect in balancing your academic, athletic, and personal lives. We are here to
encourage you, but ultimately you are responsible for your own eligibility and success.
Be assured we are concerned in seeing you succeed and stand prepared to support you so
that your experience is both enjoyable and rewarding. As an American International
College student-athlete you are considered to be a responsible adult who will reflect
consideration and concern for all members of the campus community in all your actions
and attitudes. It is through athletics that you have the privilege and opportunity to
provide a way for the individual to engage the world. In learning how to win, in learning
how to lose, in learning how to prepare for competition, the college athlete develops
body, mind, and spirit.
This Student-Athlete Handbook is designed to aid you in accomplishing your goals. It
enumerates and explains College and Athletic Department policy. Possession of the
Handbook is only a first step. It is imperative for every student-athlete to read the
Handbook.
On behalf of the entire Athletic Department staff, I state our commitment to you to strive
to provide the finest athletic and academic experience possible. Warmest best wishes for
a successful academic year!
Sincerely,
Richard F. Bedard
Director of Athletics
August 2007
Table of Contents
LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS
1
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE MISSION STATEMENT
Department Philosophy
5
6
ACADEMIC CALANDER
7
I. YOU AS A STUDENT-ATHLETE
8
Amateurism
Amateur Status
Prohibited Forms of Pay
Code of ethics
Principle of Ethical Conduct
Orientation
Compliance is Everyone’s Responsibility!
ACADEMIC POLICIES
Freshman
NCAA Requirements
American International College Requirements
Department of Athletics Requirements
Dropping A Class
Academic Progress Reports
Student Standing
Academic Probation
Transfer Student
DAILY AND WEEKLY HOUR LIMITATIONS
PLAYING SEASON
WEEKLY HOUR LIMILTATIONS- OUTSIDE OF PLAYING SEASON
COUNTABLE ATHLETICALLY RELATED ACTIVITIES
Sports with a Safety Exception:
MISSED CLASSES
Notification of Team Travel
8
9
9
11
11
11
11
12
12
12
12
13
13
13
14
14
14
15
15
15
16
16
17
18
II. Financial Aid
19
Athletics Related Financial Aid
19
Procedures For The Withdrawal or Reduction of Athletically-Related Financial Aid 19
Financial Aid Appeals Committee
20
Non-Athletics Related Financial Aid
21
III. TEAM DISMISSAL
Eligibility and Illness, Injury or Other Incapacity
Redshirting
Procedures for Removing an Athlete from a Team during the Academic Year
22
22
22
24
IV. EXIT SURVEYS
24
V. INCOMPLETE GRADES AND REPEATING A COURSE
24
VI. TIME MANAGEMENT
Twelve ways to get the most out of now:
25
25
2
VII. ADVISORY COUNCILS
1. Faculty Athletics Council
2. The Student- Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)
26
26
26
VIII. ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Student- Athlete Behavior
Gambling
Complimentary Admissions
Hazing
Student-Athlete Agreement Concerning Hazing
27
27
27
28
29
30
ALCOHOL AND DRUG POLICY
Alcohol
Illegal Drugs
Results of Irresponsible Drinking
Conclusion
Tobacco Policy
Extra Benefits
31
31
31
32
32
33
33
IX. SUPPORT SERVICES FOR THE STUDENT-ATHLETE
Study Halls
Academic Monitoring
Blake Learning Center
AIC Student-Athlete Drug Testing Program
Counseling Center
NCAA Champs – Life Skills Program
34
34
34
34
34
35
35
X. ACADEMIC ADVISING
Key NCAA Academic Rules
Transfer Policies
Study Hall
Book Policy
35
35
35
36
37
XI. ACADEMIC CERTIFICATION
38
XII. FOSTERING INDIVIDUAL DEVELOPMENT
38
XIII. FUTURE CAREER PLANS
Choosing a Major or Career
Resume Writing
Interview Skills
On-Campus Recruitment for Seniors
Interview Pitfalls
Involvement with Boosters
Extra Benefits
38
38
38
38
38
38
38
39
XIV. ATHLETIC TRAINING DEPARTMENT
General Athletic Training Room Hours
Coverage Policy
Athletic Training Room Staff
ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM RULES
Tobacco Ban
Drug Testing
NCAA-BANNED DRUGS
Drug- Testing Consent Form
40
40
40
41
42
44
45
46
48
3
PURPOSES OF THE DRUG-TESTING PROGRAM
Protocol for Drug-Testing
Procedure for Positive Test Results
Individual Counseling, Rehabilitation and Discipline
48
48
48
48
XV.STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING PROGRAM
The Athletic Complex
Rules and Conditions Governing the Use of Facilities
50
50
50
XVI. MEDIA RELATIONS AND COMMICATIONS
Student-Athlete Responsibilities
51
51
XVII. ATHLETIC EQUIPMENT POLICY
Distribution of Equipment/ Fitting Procedures:
Equipment Room Rules:
52
52
52
XVIII.TEAM TRAVEL, CONDUCT AND APPEARANCE
Team Travel
Unsportsmanlike Behavior
XIX. NEW NCAA LEGISLATION
52
53
53
54
4
American International College Mission
Statement
American International College is a small, private, coeducational, nonsectarian, urban
college devoted to teaching. The mission of the school is to transform lives by providing
accessible, personalized, quality undergraduate and graduate programs. In our culturally
diverse learning environment, which emphasizes student engagement in community, cultural
and civic concerns, each student will have the opportunity to prepare for a successful
educational and professional career in a global society.
5
Department Philosophy
The broad mission of the Department of Athletics is to provide an opportunity for students to enrich
their college experience through a comprehensive, challenging and professionally managed
intercollegiate athletics program. Through associated athletic events, student-athletes are encouraged to
achieve levels of excellence in competition and individual development. Additionally, the Department
of Athletics is dedicated to enhancing the College’s reputation for integrity, diversity, and excellence, as
demonstrated by the performance of student-athletes, coaches and all department staff members both on
and off the field.
The Department of Athletics adheres, in principle and in fact, to the rules and regulations of the
Northeast-10 Conference (NE-10), the Atlantic Hockey League, and its affiliate competing leagues in
which the College competes and the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
American International College promotes excellence in athletics and academics. High standards in both
athletics and academic programs ensure that students will be given the best possible foundation for their
future lives and careers. Academic achievement is the primary measure of a successful student-athlete,
and integrity is the hallmark of a successful program.
The existence of the intercollegiate athletics program provides College students, faculty, alumni and
friends an opportunity to share in the life of the collegiate community. Because of the positive
recognition involved, American International College support on regional, state and national levels is
enhanced.
Non-Discrimination
AIC does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, religion, national/ethnic origin, or physical
challenge in the administration of its education policies, admission policies, athletic programs, or
administered programs. Any behavior or action that discriminates based on any of the above
characteristics is unacceptable and subject to disciplinary action. If you feel that you have been
discriminated against you should contact AIC’s Director of Human Resources.
6
ACADEMIC CALENDAR
Fall Semester
Residence Halls open to all new
Students
New student orientation (NSO)
Residence halls open to all students
Classes begin at 8:00 a.m.
Add/Drop period
Columbus Day (College Closed)
Last Day to drop classes without
academic penalty
Registration period for Spring 08
Thanksgiving Recess
Classes resume at 8:00 a.m.
Last day of classes
Final Examinations
Fall 2007
Winter Intercession
Winter Weekend Classes begin
Winter Intercession '07-'08
Jan 2
Spring Semester
Classes begin at 8:00 a.m.
Add/Drop period
Continuing Education and Graduate
classes meet
Presidents’ Day, no classes
Mid semester; Last day to Drop a
class without academic penalty
Spring Break
Classes resume at 8:00 a.m.
Last Winter Weekend Class/ Final
Exam
Registration Period for Fall 2008
Holiday – Easter Recess
Spring Weekend Classes Begin
Classes Resume at 8:00 a.m.
Last Day of Classes; Final Exams
Commencement
Last Spring Weekend classes/ Final
Exam
Spring 2008
Wed., Jan. 16
Jan. 18- 25
Sun., Sept. 2
Mon., Sept. 3
Tues., Sept. 4
Wed., Sept. 5
Sept. 5- 14
Mon., Oct. 8
Wed., Oct. 24
Nov. 12- 21
Nov. 22- 25
Mon., Nov. 26
Fri., Dec. 14
Dec. 17- 21
Wed., Jan. 16
Mon., Feb. 18
Wed., March 5
March 10- 14
Mon., March 17
March 29 - 30
March 31- April 11
March 21- 24
April 12- 13
Tues., March 25
May 2; May 5- 9
Sun., May 18
June 28- 29
7
I. You as a Student-Athlete
There are special responsibilities and requirements
that accompany the privilege of being a
student-athlete
and
representing
American
International College. Other students need not
worry about the athletic eligibility requirement,
media relations, team travel rules, complimentary
admissions, drug testing, etc., thus, you have a
special interest and responsibility that does not apply
to other students. This section of the Handbook has
been developed to address these types of privileges
and responsibilities.
Your success as a student-athlete at American
International College must be measured in terms of
your academic performance. Intellectual growth
and academic progress is the primary purpose
for being here. Representing the College in its
athletics program is a privilege earned by your
successful academic efforts, as well as your athletic
ability. Therefore, we believe our program’s success
must be measured by our ability to support you both
as a student and as an athlete.
Although you may be in the public view much
more than the average student because of your
athletic participation, you must realize that this
status confers no special privileges. You are
expected to participate as a regular member of the
student body, subject to the same regulations, and
afforded the same privileges as all other students. In
fact, many of the sections of this Handbook will
emphasize how your increased visibility requires
that you assume even more personal responsibility
for your conduct.
As
an
American
International
College
student-athlete you are afforded a unique
opportunity to grow mentally, physically, and
socially in an atmosphere of excellence. An
extremely important part of that unique opportunity
is the commitment and understanding that American
International College athletes are, first and foremost,
students. As such, each student-athlete has the
responsibility to fulfill clear expectations. These
include:
 Understanding that earning a degree is the
primary goal of the student;
 Meeting all academic responsibilities, including
regular class attendance and the completion of
all assignments in a timely manner;
 Complying with the rules and regulations of the
NCAA, the NE-10, the ECAC, the AHA and
the College, understanding that it is each
student's responsibility to be fully aware of the
rules and regulations;
 Meeting regularly with faculty advisors;
 Striving to be involved as a full-fledged
member of the College community and
making a strong effort to derive as much as
possible from the educational experience;
 Understanding the support resources that are
available for academic advising, assuming the
responsibility to seek help when it is needed;
 Understanding that the assumption of personal
responsibility is at the heart of the educational
experience;
all
student-athletes
should
constantly be aware that they represent the
College, the Athletic Department and their
team; upper-class student-athletes should
consciously strive to serve as exemplary role
models for new student-athletes;
 Making a complete commitment to academic
integrity.
Amateurism
An amateur student-athlete is one who engages in
a particular sport for the educational, physical,
mental and social benefits derived there from and
for whom participation in that sport is an
avocation. Only an amateur student-athlete is
eligible for intercollegiate athletics participation in
a particular sport.
Furthermore, an individual's NCAA amateurism
status may be lost as a result of activities prior to
enrollment in College. If NCAA rules specify that
an "individual" may or may not participate in
certain activities, this term refers to a person prior
to and subsequent to enrollment in a member
institution. If NCAA rules specify a "studentathlete," the legislation applies only to that
person's activities subsequent to enrollment.
Please note that as of spring 2007, any
prospective student-athlete entering an NCAA
Division I or II institution for the first time
8
must be certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse
through the Amateurism certification process.
This includes all entering freshman and any
transfers from junior colleges, NAIA schools,
Division III schools, etc.
Amateur Status
An individual loses amateur status and
thus shall not be eligible for
intercollegiate competition in a particular
sport if the individual:
1.
Uses his or her athletics skill
(directly or indirectly) for pay in any
form in that sport (other than fee-forlesson compensation);
2.
Accepts a promise of pay even if
such pay is to be received following
completion of intercollegiate
athletics participation;
3.
Signs a contract or commitment of
any kind to play professional
athletics, regardless of its legal
enforceability or any consideration
received;
4.
Receives, directly or indirectly, a
salary, reimbursement of expenses or
any other form of financial assistance
from a professional sports
organization based upon athletics
skill or participation, except as
permitted by NCAA rules and
regulations;
5.
Competes on any professional
athletics team and knows (or had
reason to know) that the team is a
professional athletics team (per
12.02.4), even if no pay or
remuneration for expenses was
received;
6.
Enters into a professional draft subsequent to
initial full-time enrollment; or
7.
Enters into an agreement with an agent.
Prohibited Forms of Pay
"Pay" as used above includes, but is not limited to,
the following:
Salary, Gratuity or Compensation. Any direct or
indirect salary, gratuity or comparable
compensation.
Division or Split of Surplus. Any division or split
of surplus (bonuses, game receipts, etc.).
Educational Expenses. Educational expenses not
permitted by the governing legislation of this
Association (see Bylaw 15 regarding permissible
financial aid to enrolled student-athletes).
Educational Expenses From Outside Sports
Team or Organization. Educational expenses
provided to an individual by an agent, professional
sports team, or booster that are based in any degree
upon the recipient's athletics ability, even if the
funds are given to the institution to administer to
the recipient.
Expenses, Awards and Benefits. Excessive or
improper expenses, awards and benefits (see
Bylaw 16 regarding permissible awards, benefits
and expenses to enrolled student-athletes).
Cash or Equivalent Award. Cash, or the
equivalent thereof (e.g., trust fund), as an award
for participation in competition at any time, even if
such an award is permitted under the rules
governing an amateur, noncollegiate event in
which the individual is participating. An award or
a cash prize that an individual could not receive
under NCAA legislation may not be forwarded in
the individual's name to a different individual or
agency.
Expenses/Awards Prohibited by Rules
Governing Event. Expenses incurred or awards
received by an individual that are prohibited by the
rules governing an amateur, noncollegiate event in
which the individual participates.
Expenses from Outside Team or
Organization. Expenses received from an
outside amateur sports team or organization in
excess of actual and necessary travel, room and
board expenses, and apparel and equipment (for
individual and team use only from teams or
organizations not affiliated with member
institutions, including local sports clubs as set
forth in 13.11.2.4) for competition and practice
held in preparation for such competition.
Practice must be conducted in a continuous time
period preceding the competition except for
practice sessions conducted by a national team,
which occasionally may be interrupted for
specific periods of time preceding the
competition.
Unspecified or Unitemized Expenses.
Payment to individual team members or
individual competitors for unspecified or
unitemized expenses beyond actual and
necessary travel, room and board expenses for
practice and competition.
9
Expenses from Sponsor Other than
Parents/Legal Guardians or Nonprofessional
Sponsor of Event. Actual and necessary expenses
or any other form of compensation to participate in
athletics competition (while not representing an
educational institution) from a sponsor other than
an individual upon whom the athlete is naturally or
legally dependent or the nonprofessional
organization that is sponsoring the competition.
that involves the use of overall athletics skill (e.g.,
"superstars" competition) constitutes a violation of
the Association's amateur-status regulations;
therefore, an individual participating for pay in
such competition is ineligible for intercollegiate
competition in all sports.
Expenses for Parents/Legal Guardians of
Participants in Athletics Competition. Expenses
received by the parents or legal guardians of a
participant in athletics competition from a
nonprofessional organization sponsoring the
competition in excess of actual and necessary
travel, room and board expenses or any
entertainment expenses, provided such expenses
are made available to the parents or legal
guardians of all participants in the competition.
Effective August 1, 2007, student-athletes are
permitted to try out with a professional team at
anytime outside the student-athlete’s playing and
practice season and to receive actual and necessary
expenses from a professional sports organization,
provided the tryout does not exceed 48 hours. In
the sport of basketball, student-athletes entering
their final year of eligibility are permitted to enter
and be drafted during the basketball season by an
international organization without forfeiting their
eligibility in basketball.
Payment Based on Performance (subsequent to
initial full-time enrollment). Any payment,
conditioned on the individual's or team's place
finish or performance or given on an incentive
basis, or receipt of expenses in excess of the same
reasonable amount for permissible expenses given
to all individuals or team members involved in the
competition.
Preferential Treatment, Benefits or Services.
Preferential treatment, benefits or services because
of the individual's athletics reputation or skill or
pay-back potential as a professional athlete, unless
such treatment, benefits or services are specifically
permitted under NCAA legislation.
Prize for Participation in Institution's
Promotional Activity. Receipt of a prize for
participation (involving the use of athletics ability)
in a member institution's promotional activity that
is inconsistent with the provisions of 12.5 or
official interpretations approved by the
Management Council.
Tryouts
PROFESSIONAL DRAFT
Effective August 1, 2007, enrolled student-athletes
in any sport are permitted to enter a pro league’s
draft an unlimited number of times during their
collegiate career and be drafted by any team in the
league without jeopardizing their eligibility as long
as they do not hire an agent and they do not sign
an agreement with any pro team.
NEGOTIATIONS
You or your parents are permitted to enter into
negotiations with a professional sports
organization without jeopardizing your NCAA
amateur status. You or your parents are not
permitted to retain an agent, lawyer or financial
advisor to negotiate on your behalf. You must
speak with the Compliance Office prior to any
arranged visit with an agent or representative
associated with a professional sports agency.
Use of Overall Athletics Skill-Effect on
Eligibility. Participation for pay in competition
10
Code of Ethics
Principle of Ethical Conduct
Student-athletes, coaches and administrators of the
Department of Intercollegiate Athletics at American
International College, shall conduct themselves with
honesty and good sportsmanship. Their behavior
shall reflect the high standards of honor and dignity
that characterize participation in competitive sports
in the collegiate setting.
3. Staff members will refrain from negative
recruiting (i.e., sending newspaper articles
which demean another institution, verbal
degradation, or any other action which
results in lowering the regard of another
institution).
4. Public remarks regarding American
International College policy or other
athletic matters, including officiating,
which denigrate the College, individuals or
other institutions will not be tolerated and
are subject to disciplinary action.
Standards of Ethical Conduct
Student-athletes, coaches, staff members and
administrators are expected to represent American
International College in an honorable manner at all
times. Standards of ethical conduct are established
and enforced by the NCAA, the Northeast-10
Conference, the Atlantic Hockey Association,
Eastern College Athletic Conference and American
International College. All student-athletes, coaches,
staff and administrators are expected to comply with
the general conduct and ethics guidelines specified
below:
1.
American International College’s
responsibility is to exercise control of its
athletic program and to keep it within the
bounds of the educational process. The
College’s responsibility is to promote the
general public's understanding of this point
of view and its appreciation of the
educational values that are derived from a
properly balanced program of
intercollegiate sports.
2. American International College’s
responsibility is to ensure that all
individuals employed by or directly
associated with this athletic program
conduct themselves in a sportsmanlike
manner. Documented unsportsmanlike
conduct (including, but not limited to
fighting, verbal abuse or other negative
behavior) by Department staff members,
coaches, administrators and studentathletes will not be tolerated and is subject
to disciplinary action.
Orientation
Before the first competition of the fall season, the
Department of Athletics conducts an eligibility
squad meeting for each team. During this meeting,
the Department’s Compliance Officer explains
policies and procedures, as well as NCAA
regulations. At this meeting as well, the
Department’s substance abuse policy is reviewed.
Compliance is Everyone's
Responsibility!
Principle of Institutional Responsibility
The institution's responsibility for the conduct of
its intercollegiate athletics program includes
responsibility for the actions of its staff members
and for the actions of any other individual or
organization engaged in activities promoting the
athletics interests of the institution.
See AIC Compliance Manual for Additional
Details!!
Ask Before You Act!
(413) 205-3539
11
Academic Policies
Student-athletes must meet the requirements of the NCAA and
the American International College Department of Athletics, as
well as all admissions and satisfactory progress requirements of
American International College in order to be eligible for
participation.
5.
You must declare a major by the beginning of your
fifth semester of collegiate enrollment. The major
must be a four-year program, which leads to a bachelor’s
degree. A student-athlete cannot declare a major that
leads to an associate degree.
Freshman – NCAA Clearinghouse
6.
No more than twelve (12) hours of remedial credit
will be counted towards eligibility. These hours must
be completed during your first year of collegiate
enrollment.
7.
Student-athletes must complete 25 percent of their
requirements by the beginning of their third year, 50
percent of their degree requirements by the beginning of
their fourth year and 75 percent of their degree
requirements by the beginning of their fifth year.
8.
Student-athletes must maintain at least a grade point
average as specified by the NCAA and the institution.
9.
You will be declared ineligible if you miss class to
attend practice.
1.
All student-athletes are required to apply to the NCAA
Clearinghouse prior to arriving on campus at AIC.
No student-athletes will be allowed to practice until
they have registered with the clearinghouse.
2.
No student-athletes will be allowed to compete until
they have been certified as a “qualifier” by the NCAA
clearinghouse.
3.
Effective spring 07, all student-athletes must have their
amateurism certified by the NCAA Clearinghouse. No
student-athletes will be allowed to compete until their
amateurism has been certified by the clearinghouse.
4.
If a recruited or non-recruited student-athlete reports
for athletics participation before the high school corecurriculum grade point average and test score have
been certified, the student-athlete may practice, but not
compete, for a maximum of 45 days, provided the
student-athlete is enrolled full-time or has been
accepted for enrollment as a regular full-time student.
NCAA Requirements
1.
2.
3.
4.
You must be enrolled full-time each semester to be
eligible for practice, competition, and athletic aid. You
will be declared ineligible if you drop below twelve (12)
degree credits at any point throughout the semester.
You must pass a minimum of twenty-four (24)
hours of degree credit each academic year (fall, spring,
and summer). You must earn eighteen (18) hours during
the fall and spring semester. Only six (6) satisfactory
progress hours may be earned during the winter/summer
session of each academic year.
You must pass six (6) credit-hours during the previous
term of full-time enrollment.
Repeated courses do not count as part of your
12/24-hour requirement. The courses you repeat will be
counted for eligibility only once if you earn a grade a “D”
or higher. A grade of “F” is not counted for eligibility and
may be repeated.
10. Any student-athlete planning on attending summer
school at another institution in order to meet the
satisfactory progress requirements must have prior
approval from American International College. Your
regular academic advisor and the department chair must
approve the course to be taken and the College Registrar
will evaluate the hours.
American International College Requirements
1.
You must be enrolled in a minimum of twelve (12)
degree credits each semester.
2.
A student-athlete must be in good academic standing
and meet the normal progression policies of American
International College to be eligible to participate. The
student-athlete is considered in good academic
standing if he/she is eligible to be enrolled as a fulltime student during the regular academic year.
3.
Any student whose cumulative GPA falls below the
following levels will be subject to dismissal:
Attempted Credits Cumulative GPA
1- 30
31- 60
61-71
72 +
credits
credits
credits
credits
1.81
1.93
1.97
2.00
12
4.
Any student who remains on Academic Probation for
two (2) consecutive semesters during his /her
academic career will also be subject to dismissal.
Academic Policies continued.
Students are personally responsible for completing all
requirements established for their degree by the College. It is
the student’s responsibility to be informed of these
requirements. A student’s advisor, not the Athletic Academic
Advisor, will assume these responsibilities and may not
substitute, waive or exempt the student from any established
requirement or academic standard.
All student-athletes are responsible for knowing the
policies set forth, as well as the policies in the College’s
Student Handbook.
Department of Athletics Requirements
All student-athletes are expected to abide by the policies of the
American International College Department of Athletics as
follows:
1.
Abide by the team rules set forth by your head coach.
2.
Attend class regularly. Course failure caused by
excessive, unexcused absences, missed assignments or
exams will result in disciplinary action by the head
coach.
3.
Attend Study Halls as required by your head coach.
4.
Meet with either your advisor or the compliance
officer for approval before dropping a course.
Remember, you must be enrolled in a minimum of
twelve (12) degree credits to be classified as a fulltime student and remain eligible to compete in
intercollegiate athletics.
Dropping a Class
Once a student-athlete has been advised and registered for
classes, adjustments to the schedule should not be made
without the consultation of the head coach and academic
advisor. Care must be taken to assure that adjustments do
not result in loss of countable hours required for immediate
and future eligibility. Student-athletes desiring to drop a
class should follow the following procedure:
1. The S-A meets with the coach, at which time the coach
will explain the consequences of dropping the class and then
will send the S-A to see the Compliance Office.
2. Coaches contact the instructor about the S-A’s class
performance and status if necessary.
3. The S-A will begin the drop procedure by getting the
advisor’s and instructor’s signatures on the Drop Form.
4. The S-A will bring the form to their Head Coach for
athletics approval. The Registrar’s office will not accept or
process an S-A’s drop form without this approval. Athletics
approval will not be given without the coach being
previously aware of the situation.
5. The S-A takes the form to the Registrar’s Office.
5.
Meet with and obtain approval from your regular
academic advisor before declaring and /or changing a
major.
Be aware that the timing of the declaring and/or changing of a
major could make a difference in your eligibility or ineligibility
for intercollegiate athletics. Please contact your academic
advisor any time you are considering changing your major. This
is the only way we can monitor the changes to ensure that
official records for a given semester reflect your intentions
accurately.
Academic Progress Reports
The Athletic Department Coaches will monitor the
progress of the student-athletes throughout the semester.
Progress is formally evaluated at least once during the
semester, with additional correspondence being handled on
an as needed basis. These additional reports will ask for
feedback in regard to test and quiz scores, preparation of
assignments, attendance, class attitude and preparation.
Returned reports are shared with the student-athletes and
his/her coach.
At this point, determination will be made in terms of the
academic approach needed for the remainder of the semester.
Actions could include: assignment of tutors, assignment of
study halls, weekly reports from the faculty or a combination of
the above.
Periodic reports will be made to your coaches throughout each
semester on classes you are enrolled in that do or do not count
toward your declared major and toward satisfactory progress. If
you have any questions or concerns, you should contact the
athletic academic advisor immediately so that we may ensure
your records are complete and correct.
13
Academic Policies, continued
from the Academic Dean in a timely manner at the conclusion
of each semester.
Student Standing
Satisfactory academic progress is determined by two criteria:
Good academic standing and normal progress.
Normal Progress (Recommended)
Good Academic Standing
Students who meet the standards listed below are considered to
be in Good Academic Standing.
Credits Attempted
0-30
31-60
61-71
72+
Minimum GPA
1.81
1.93
1.97
2.00
Academic Probation
1.
All students, except for first semester freshman, whose
GPA falls below 2.0 will be placed on Academic
Probation. Any freshman with a first semester GPA
of 1.00 or lower will not be eligible to practice or
compete in the Spring semester.
2.
If a returning student’s cumulative GPA is 2.2 or above
and their semester GPA is lower than a 1.8 but not lower
than 1.5, the student will be administered an Academic
Warning rather than being placed on Academic
Probation. However, two (2) consecutive semesters of
less than a 1.8, regardless of the cumulative GPA, will
automatically result in Academic Probation.
3.
A student who receives two or more F’s or WF’s in any
given semester will be placed on Academic Probation.
4.
Any full-time student, (i.e., enrolled for 12 or more
credits) who fails to complete 12 credits in a semester
will be reviewed and may be placed on Academic
Probation, if appropriate.
Number of
Full Time
Semesters
Completed
2
4
6
8

Student
Status
Credits
Completed
Freshman
Sophomore
Junior
Senior
At least 24
At least 48
At least 72
At least 96
Student-athletes that do not meet the progress
towards degree requirements specified above will
render themselves ineligible for intercollegiate
practice and competition; however, such studentathletes may take part in other countable athletic
related activities (i.e. weight lifting & conditioning)
as determined by their coach.
Transfer Student
Normal Progress (Recommended)
Year of
Residency
1st
2nd
3rd
4th
Credits
Completed
24
48
72
96
Any student who is placed on Academic Probation or dismissed
from the College is immediately ineligible to participate in
intercollegiate athletics.
A student on Academic Probation may choose to enroll in
courses during the College’s Winter Session or Summer School.
Grades from the winter sessions can be applied to the fall
semester GPA, while grades from the Summer Session(s) can
be applied to the spring semester GPA. This will include grades
earned from all additional course work, not just repeats of failed
classes. The students GPA will be affected only if the additional
course work is completed at American International College;
transfer credit does not affect GPA unless the student-athlete
obtains written authorization from his/her advisor/dean. Letters
in regards to academic deficient student-athletes are generated
14
Daily and Weekly Hour Limitations –
Playing Season
A student-athlete's participation in countable athletically related activities shall be limited to a maximum of four hours per
day and 20 hours per week.
4
Hours/Day
20
0
Hours/Week
1
Day Off Per
Week
Golf Practice Round Exception. A practice round of golf may exceed the four-hours-per-day limitation, but the
weekly limit of 20 hours shall remain in effect. A practice round played on the day prior to the start of a collegiate
golf tournament at the tournament site shall count as three hours, regardless of the actual duration of the round.
Competition Day. All competition and any associated athletically related activities on the day of competition shall
count as three hours regardless of the actual duration of these activities.
Practice may not be conducted at any time (including vacation periods) following competition, except between
contest rounds or events during multi-day or multi-event competition (e.g., double-headers in softball or baseball,
rounds of golf in a multi-day tournament).
Preseason Practice. Daily and weekly hour limitations do not apply to countable athletically related activities
occurring during preseason practice prior to the first day of classes or the first scheduled contest, whichever is
earlier.
Vacation Periods and Between Terms. Daily and weekly hour limitations do not apply to countable athletically
related activities occurring during an institution's official vacation period.
Weekly Hour Limitations - Outside of Playing Season
Only a student-athlete's participation in the countable athletically related
activities specified in (c), (d) and (e) on page 16 shall be permitted.
Participation in such activities shall be limited to a maximum eight hours per
week, of which not more than two hours per week may be spent on individual
skill workouts set forth in (e) below. A student-athlete may not participate in
any countable athletically related activities outside the playing season during
any institutional vacation period (e.g., summer, academic year). All studentathletes should receive a minimum of TWO days in which no countable
athletically-related activities occur.
Skill Instruction. Participation by student-athletes in individual skillrelated instruction [including the activities set forth in 17.02.1.1-(f)] in
sports other than football is permitted outside the declared playing season,
provided not more than four student-athletes from the same team are
involved in skill-related instruction with their coach(es) at any one time in
any facility.
8
Hours/Week
2
Days Off/Week
2
Hours/Day
Conditioning Activities. Conditioning drills per 17.1.6.2 that may simulate game activities are permissible,
provided no offensive or defensive alignments are set up and no equipment related to the sport is used.
15
Countable Athletically Related Activities
The following are considered countable athletically related activities and must be counted in the weekly or daily time
limitations:
A.
Practice, which is defined as any meeting, activity or instruction involving sports-related information and
having an athletics purpose, held for one or more student-athletes at the direction of, or supervised by, any member
or members of an institution's coaching staff. Practice is considered to have occurred if one or more coaches and one
or more student-athletes engage in any of the following activities:
B.
1.
Field, floor or on-court activity;
2.
Setting up offensive or defensive alignment;
3.
Chalk talk;
4.
Lecture on or discussion of strategy related to the sport;
5.
Activities using equipment related to the sport;
6.
Discussions or review of game films, motion pictures or videotapes related to the sport, except for
the observation of an officiating clinic related to playing rules that is conducted by video
conference and does not require student-athletes to miss any class time to observe the clinic; or
7.
Activities conducted under the guise of physical education class work (e.g., any class composed of
or including primarily members of an intercollegiate team on a required attendance basis or where
the class utilizes equipment for the sport);
Competition;
C.
Required weight-training and conditioning activities held at the direction of or Supervised by an
institutional staff member;
D.
Participation in a physical-fitness class conducted by a member of the athletics staff;
E.
In Division I and II sports other than football, participation outside the institution's declared playing season
in individual skill-related instructional activities with a member of the coaching staff (see 17.1.6.2.1);
F.
In individual sports, participation outside the institution's declared playing season in individual skillrelated instructional activities with a member of the coaching staff. The exception is for individual workout
sessions during the summer that occur at the request of the student-athlete;
G.
Required participation in camps, clinics or workshops;
H.
Individual workouts required or supervised by a member of the coaching staff except for those sports
subject to the safety exception. A coach may design a voluntary general individual workout program for a studentathlete (as opposed to a specific workout program for specific days) but cannot conduct the individual's workout;
Sports with a Safety Exception:
Coach’s presence is permitted during voluntary individual workouts; however, the coach cannot conduct
the individual’s workout:
1.
Track & Field (field events only)
2.
Wrestling-when the student-athlete is engaged in wrestling.
Definition of “Voluntary”
16

No requirement to report back to coach

Solely at student-athlete’s discretion

Attendance and participation are not recorded

No penalties involved

No recognition involved
I.
On-court or on-field activities called by any member or members of a team and confined primarily to members of
that team that are considered as requisite for participation in that sport (e.g., captain's practices);
J.
Visiting the competition site in the sport of golf.
K. Use of an institution's athletics facilities when such activities are supervised by or held at the direction of any
member of an institution's coaching staff. Facilities may be reserved for such use during the academic year. It is not
permissible to reserve facilities during the summer, except in Division I and II, to participate in permissible
individual workouts in individual sports at the request of the student-athlete(s);
Involvement of an institution's strength and conditioning staff with enrolled student-athletes in required conditioning
programs. Strength and conditioning personnel may monitor voluntary individual workouts for safety purposes but cannot
report back to the coaching staff on the individuals that participated in the voluntary workouts or any details regarding the
workouts.
Missed Classes
You might occasionally miss classes to participate in athletic events. Faculty members, according to institutional policy, will
excuse student-athletes who miss class for contests subject to the following conditions:
1.
The student-athlete notifies the professor within the first two class meetings of the dates and times of classes that will be
missed due to game obligations. (Should the student-athlete be required to participate in post-season competition, the
professor will be notified of the post-season schedule as soon as the schedule is issued.) Notification must be accomplished by
completing the Notification of Team Travel Form (pg 18) contained within the Student-Athlete Handbook. By signing the
Notification of Team Travel Form, the professor agrees to excuse students for classes missed, without penalty. The professor
maintains full discretion with respect to signing the form. Any student-athlete who fails to complete this notification process is
subject to the attendance policy of the professor.
2.
The student-athlete completes all academic requirements designed and scheduled by the instructor for missed classes,
examinations, research papers, group projects and graded exercises.
3.
In general, faculty members are understanding provided student-athletes inform them in the manner outlined in the above
policy.
4.
The Athletics Department will presume that each instructor requires documentation of your team travel. Such documentation
can be obtained through the athletic department administrative assistant (X3939) if necessary.
17
Notification of Team Travel Form
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL COLLEGE
ATHLETICS DEPARTMENT
(Semester)
Dear Professor ____________:
The class attendance policy requires all student-athletes to attend class regularly. Studentathletes should not miss class, leave early or arrive late because of practice. Academic
schedules are planned to minimize the class time lost due to participation in competition
during the season but unfortunately some conflicts are unavoidable. This policy requires
student-athletes to complete all academic requirements for these missed classes.
The Athletics Department recognizes it is your prerogative to excuse student-athletes
without penalty from classes missed for competition. We encourage you to discuss your
policy with them.
The following student-athletes participating in ____(sport)____ are enrolled in your course:
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
_____________________________________
The following list states the game dates and departure times that will result in class
absences in your course this semester:
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
______________________________
The above schedule is subject to change due to weather conditions. The postponement of
games will be made by 11:00 AM. Student-athletes are required to attend class if the
competition is postponed. The coach will send or e-mail supplementary documentation
regarding these postponements and rain dates.
Questions? Please contact: Coach __________________________________
or Assistant Athletic Director Matt Johnson
(x3539)
or Faculty Athletics Rep. Jill McCarthy Payne (x3409)
Thank you for supporting the academic success of our student-athletes!
18
II. Financial Aid
American International College subscribes to a philosophy
that financial aid is for students whose family resources are
insufficient to meet college expenses. Therefore, American
International College may award need-based aid up to the
amount of demonstrated financial need as determined through
the College Scholarship Service need analysis procedures,
institutional philosophy and allocated resources of athletic
need-based funds. American International College's financial
aid policy is to only award eight semesters of need-based
financial aid as processed by the Financial Aid Office.
American International College provides a comprehensive
financial aid program based on demonstrated need. The
College will make every effort to meet the financial need of
anyone who has been offered admission during the normal
admission process, and who has filed a financial aid
application as required by the Financial Aid Office.
Athletics Related Financial Aid
A financial award given to a student-athlete based upon
athletic ability or sports performance is considered an athletic
scholarship.
According to the NCAA regulations, athletic scholarships are
limited to educational expenses including tuition & fees,
room & board, required course-related books, and required
course-related supplies. An athletic scholarship is awarded
for a maximum period of one academic year.
Select varsity sports are provided athletic scholarships within
the guidelines of the NCAA, and the College Athletics
Department. Athletic scholarships are recommended by the
head coach with the approval of the Director of Athletics.
Once approved, the financial aid award is then processed and
communicated to the student-athlete by the Financial Aid
Office.
In compliance with the NCAA, the Financial Aid Office must
notify a student-athlete on the renewal of his or her award on
or before July 1, preceding the academic year. If an athletic
scholarship is not recommended for renewal, the Financial
Aid Office will notify that student-athlete of an opportunity
for a hearing to appeal this decision. Please see Page 20 for
information regarding the Appeals Committee.
If a student-athlete has a question about the terms of his or
her athletic scholarship, please contact your head coach or the
Director of Athletics.
Conditions That May Cause an Athletic
Scholarship to be Reduced or Cancelled During
the Academic Year:
1) Student-athlete renders him/herself ineligible for
intercollegiate competition by:

Failing to make satisfactory academic progress;

Using illegal drugs;

Failing to pay College financial obligations; or

Violating written team rules as defined by the head
coach
2) Misrepresenting any information on the admissions
application, financial aid agreement, Letter of Intent, or
NCAA Student-Athlete Statement.
3) Engaging in serious misconduct warranting substantial
disciplinary penalty.
4) Voluntarily withdrawing from the team prior to, during,
or after the sport season in which the athletic scholarship
was awarded.
Conditions that cannot reduce or cancel an
Athletic Scholarship during the Academic Year:
1) Illness, injury or pregnancy that prevents participation,
whether or not that student athlete obtains a Hardship
Waiver.
2) Athletic ability, performance, or contribution to a team’s
success.
Procedures For The Withdrawal Or Reduction
Of Athletically-Related Financial Aid
The Assistant Director of Athletics for NCAA Compliance
meets with each team at the beginning of the academic year.
At this meeting, all student-athletes are given a copy of the
Student-Athlete Handbook, which includes sections on
student-athlete rights and responsibilities. It is the
responsibility of the student-athlete to read the Handbook and
make themselves aware of these rights and responsibilities.
The following briefly summarizes the procedures to be
followed when a student-athlete who receives an athletic
scholarship quits a team:
1.
19
The student-athlete is required to submit his/her
decision to withdraw from a team in writing to the
coach and/or Athletic Director. The coach will
forward any correspondence to the Athletic Director
and the Assistant Director of Athletics for NCAA
Compliance.
Communication Prior To The Hearing:
The Athletic Director will schedule a meeting with
the student, which will include the Assistant
Director of Athletics for Compliance. The meeting’s
purpose is to conduct an exit interview to ascertain
the following:
 Reasons for the student-athlete’s decision.
 Inform the student of any NCAA
regulations impacting future athletic
eligibility.
 Inform the student-athlete of the
consequences of the decision on his/her
athletically related financial aid.

3.
Following the meeting, the student will receive
formal notice from the Financial Aid Office that the
aid has been discontinued, which includes, in the
case of full scholarship basketball student-athletes;
the return of course related books.

4.
In the event the student-athlete chooses not to attend
the meeting with the Athletic Director and Assistant
Athletic Director for Compliance, the StudentAthlete Handbook will serve as his/her resource
with respect to the NCAA rules and regulations.
2.


When a student-athlete who receives an athletic
scholarship has his or her award reduced/cancelled
during the period of the award or not renewed for the
following academic year, the student-athlete has the
opportunity to appeal this decision through the financial
aid appeals committee. See below
Financial Aid Appeals Committee
In compliance with NCAA Bylaw 15.3.2.4, this committee
will hear appeals brought forth by current and/or former
student-athletes regarding athletic awards.
The charge of this committee includes:



Providing the student-athlete with an opportunity to
appeal.
Rendering a final decision regarding the appeal and
communicating its decision in writing to all
approved parties.
Informing the key executive college officials of any
actions by this committee
Membership:



20
Director of Financial Aid
Faculty Athletics Council
The Director of Financial Aid presides over the
hearing and votes only in the event it is necessary to
break the tie.
The Athletic Director will inform the Dean of
Students of any disciplinary or academic problems
with a student-athlete, which ultimately had the
potential of affecting the student-athlete’s aid.
The student-athlete must submit written notification
of appeal to the Director of Financial Aid within 11
days from the date of delivery of the grant-in-aid
removal letter. When such an appeal request is filed,
the Athletic Director will be informed. The Director
of Financial Aid will then contact the members of
the ad hoc Financial Aid Appeals Committee to
arrange a hearing within 30 calendar days of
receiving the request.
Further, the student-athlete must be given a copy of
the institution’s established policies and procedures
for conducting the required hearing, including the
deadline by which the student-athlete must request
the appeal
A summary of each party’s argument and a list of
witnesses, if appropriate, will be submitted to the
Director of Financial Aid at least 72 hours prior to
the hearing. These materials will be circulated to
the appealing student-athlete, the Athletic Director,
and committee members prior to the hearing.
Hearing Procedures:






The appealing student-athlete and the Athletic
Director are responsible for arranging that the
witnesses included in respective lists are available at
the hearing. Witnesses will remain outside the
meeting room until called by the committee.
The Assistant Athletic Director for NCAA
compliance will be available to the committee to
provide advice concerning NCAA issues.
The Athletic Director (or designee) may address the
committee to present information brought forth by
the Department, but that individual has no vote.
Students are permitted to bring an advisor to the
hearing. However, advisors are not authorized or
allowed to participate in the hearing. No attorneys
will be allowed.
The student-athlete and the Athletic Director (or
designee) must present all pertinent information at
the time of the hearing. Lack of preparation will not
be cause for another hearing at a later date.
A final written decision will be communicated to the
student-athlete and the Athletics Director within two
weeks of the close of the hearing. Actions the
committee are authorized to take include:
1. Uphold the decision of the Athletic Department.
2. Overturn the decision and reinstate funding.
3. Modify the sanctions as deemed appropriate by
the appeals committee.
Non-Athletics Related Financial Aid
All student-athletes are encouraged to apply for non-athletic
aid, including the Federal Pell Scholarship, as well as other
financial assistance. Student-athletes are encouraged to check
with the Office of Student Financial Assistance regarding the
Pell Grant application process. If a student-athlete is awarded
athletics related financial aid, the amount of other forms of
financial aid that they may receive is limited.
The Office of Student Financial Assistance is responsible
for monitoring financial aid records and will make the
necessary adjustments to assure compliance with NCAA
individual financial aid limitations. Receiving excessive
aid can result in the student-athlete being declared
ineligible for competition.
Application Process
To be considered for financial aid, American International
College requires all applicants to file the Financial Aid
Profile with the College Scholarship Service (CSS). The
Profile can be obtained by completing a registration form
available in the high school guidance office as early as midSeptember of a prospective student-athlete's senior year.
Students are required to file the Free Application for
Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for federal
and state funded assistance. FAFSA forms must be
updated/renewed on an annual basis by no later than
May 15th. Failure to update/renew FAFSA forms in a
timely manner may result in inaccurate financial aid
renewal forms. The Profile should be filed in accordance
with the guidelines provided by the Office of Student
Financial Assistance. The Profile/FAFSA for a specific
year will ask for information from the prior year tax
returns, which will later be verified. All matriculates are
required to provide tax returns as soon as possible after
April 15 of each year. For many sports, contacts with
coaches take place before the Profile/FAFSA are processed.
Where it may be necessary to establish financial aid
eligibility prior to the processing of a Profile, American
International College will use a photocopy of the Profile
submitted by a family to a sport coach.
Determining Need
Having identified the costs of attending a college, the next
step is to determine the amount a family can contribute
from their income and assets. The application provides the
means by which the Office of Student Financial Assistance
can calculate that contribution. By subtracting the family's
contribution from the cost of attendance, the remainder is
financial aid eligibility based on need. It's within the
parameters of that financial aid eligibility that a financial
aid award is made.
21
Many of American International College students win
private scholarships from a variety of sources. It is each
recipient's responsibility to directly notify the Office of
Student Financial Assistance so that the necessary
adjustments can be made to the College award. Students
may not receive funds in excess of their need if there are
any federal or institutional funds in the award package. In
some cases, "over awarding" may jeopardize the studentathlete's NCAA eligibility. Adjustments in previously
awarded aid will generally reward the student for receipt of
an outside funded gift aid based on the student's merit.
Any and all scholarships received from an outside source
(i.e YMCA, Kiwanis Club, etc.) must be reported to the
financial aid office and the coach in a timely manner.
III. Team Dismissal
You will automatically become ineligible for participation
in athletics under the following conditions:
1) You fail to meet the American International
College or NCAA requirements for admissions.
2) You fail to remain enrolled in at least twelve
(12) degree credits during any regular semester.
3) You are suspended from school.
4) You fail to meet satisfactory progress
requirements in any one academic school year.
5) In addition, at the discretion of the head coach and/or
Director of Athletics you may be dismissed from the
team for the following conditions:
a)
b)
c)
d)
e)
You are placed on academic probation.
You fail to make satisfactory progress (See
Academic Progress, page 14)
Excessive class absenteeism. Class attendance
is mandatory. Chronic absenteeism can result
in dismissal from the team.
Violations of training, team or other
department rules.
Possession, sale, or use of illegal drugs.
You are responsible for knowing and complying with
the NCAA rules and regulations as well as the
academic policies set forth by American International
College. This is not the responsibility of your head
coach or advisors. Anytime you are not sure of a rule
or you have a question regarding a rule, please
contact the Assistant Director of Athletics at
(413) 205-3539.
Eligibility and Illness, Injury or Other
Incapacity
As described below, a student-athlete’s illness, injury or
other incapacity can, in certain circumstances, affect his
or her eligibility under NCAA regulations. However, an
injury, illness, or incapacity does not affect their athletic
scholarship, team membership, or academic enrollment;
and, student-athletes are not retaliated against if they are
injured, ill, or otherwise incapacitated. AIC follows the
NCAA’s regulations relating to intercollegiate
competition eligibility, and follows a policy of nondiscrimination. Students are encouraged to consult
American International College’s NCAA Compliance
Officer for more information on eligibility.
22
Under NCAA regulations, a student-athlete is not
permitted to engage in more than four seasons of
intercollegiate competition in any one sport. A studentathlete must complete his/her seasons of participation
within the first 10 semesters of full-time enrollment in a
collegiate institution. NCAA regulations provide that
female student-athletes who become pregnant during
their collegiate career may be granted additional time in
which to engage in seasons of intercollegiate
competition. Any competition, regardless of time,
during a season in an intercollegiate sport counts as a
season of competition in that sport.
It is the right of every student to maintain the
confidentiality of their protected medical information,
which includes information regarding student-athlete
injuries and illnesses. Student-athletes are given the
option of signing a Student Athlete
Authorization/Consent for Disclosure, which is required
for AIC to release protected health information to the
public. If this form is not signed, AIC will not disclose
protected medical information. Student-athletes may
revoke a Student Athlete Authorization/Consent for
Disclosure that they previously signed at any time by
giving notice to AIC’s Director of Athletics.
Below are some facts that student-athletes should know
about being injured or incapacitated:
“Red Shirting”
Q. The term “red shirt” is not used in the NCAA
compliance manual. Where did this term originate
and why is it used?
A. The term “red shirt” actually originated on the
football field. In the past, at the beginning of each
season, coaches would decide which student-athletes
would be permitted to compete during the season, using
a year of eligibility, and which ones would only be
permitted to practice. The ones who did not compete
during the season preserved a year of eligibility. These
student-athletes wore red jerseys at practice so the
coaches could easily identify which student-athletes
were not going to compete that year.
Student-athletes who have become incapacitated during
a season of athletic competition in which they have
competed have the option of pursuing an NCAA
Hardship Waiver in order to preserve that season of
eligibility. When a Hardship Waiver is granted, the
student-athlete is given an additional year of
competition eligibility. Receiving a Hardship Waiver is
commonly known as a “medical red-shirt year”, or “red
shirting”. However, a “red-shirt” season can also refer
to a season where the student-athlete does not compete
in any intercollegiate competition because of incapacity
occurring outside of a season of competition, or does
not compete for reasons unrelated to incapacity.
Please see the AIC Compliance Officer if you plan
on “red-shirting”
Out of Season Incapacity
If an injury, illness or other cause (including a female
athlete’s pregnancy), causes you to become physically
incapacitated outside a season of competition, you
should let your coach know as soon as possible so he or
she can plan accordingly. When a student-athlete
becomes incapacitated prior to a season of competition,
pursuant to NCAA rules, that student athlete will not be
charged with a season of competition provided that they
do not engage in any competition that season.
Incapacitated players are encouraged to remain
members of their teams during the season that they are
incapacitated. Incapacitated players are entitled to retain
their scholarship, remain members of their team, and
remain at school, and will not be retaliated against
because of their incapacity.
In Season Incapacity:
Hardship Waivers
Q. What is the definition of a hardship waiver?
What are the conditions that must occur in order to
request a hardship waiver?
A. “Hardship” is defined by NCAA regulations as “an
incapacity resulting from an injury or illness,” provided
that certain criteria set forth by NCAA regulations are
met. Such incapacity may include a female athlete’s
pregnancy. A student-athlete will not be charged with
the loss of that season of competition eligibility by the
conference or the Academics / Eligibility / Compliance
Office if all the following criteria are met:
1. The incapacitating injury or illness occurs in one of
the four seasons of intercollegiate competition at any
two-year or four-year collegiate institution or occurs
subsequent to the first day of classes in the studentathlete’s senior year of high school;
2. The injury or illness results in an incapacity to
compete for the remainder of that playing season; and
23
3. The injury/illness occurs when the student-athlete has
not participated in more than two contests or dates of
competition (whichever is applicable to that sport), or
20% (whichever number is greater) of the institution's
scheduled contests or dates of competition in his or her
sport. Only scheduled competition (excluding
exhibition contests and scrimmages) against outside
participants during the playing season that concludes
with the NCAA championship, or, if so designated,
during the official NCAA championship playing season
in that sport (e.g., spring baseball, fall soccer), is
countable in calculating the number of contests or dates
of competition in which the student-athlete has
participated and the number of scheduled contests or
dates of competition during that season in the sport.
Q. Who do I talk to about seeking an NCAA
Hardship Waiver?
A. All hardship waivers are processed through the AIC
Athletics Compliance Office. You should meet
personally with the Athletics Compliance Officer to
discuss the process. As long as a student-athlete meets
the criteria outlined above, and makes the AIC Athletics
Compliance Office aware of that fact, a waiver request
will be submitted to the Northeast-10 Conference
Office.
Q. Can student-athletes who have received a
Hardship Waiver remain in school and on their
team and retain their scholarship?
A. The fact that a student-athlete has obtained a
Hardship Waiver does not affect their athletic
scholarship, academic enrollment at American
International College or their membership on a team.
Q. Will I be retaliated against if I receive a
Hardship Waiver?
A. American International College does not retaliate
against student-athletes for that student-athlete’s
applying for or receiving a Hardship Waiver. Studentathletes are not retaliated against regarding their athletic
scholarship, team participation or academic enrollment.
Procedures for Removing an Athlete
from a Team during the Academic Year
Prior to removing a student-athlete from an AIC Varsity
Team, the following occurs:
1. Student-athlete is notified that he/she is exhibiting
behavior that does not conform to the team,
American International College, Conference or
NCAA rules and regulations.
2. Documentation of the student-athlete’s lack of
compliance with team regulations and
responsibilities is presented.
If the student-athlete chooses not to conform, the coach
will then discuss the situation with the Athletic
Director. The coach may dismiss the student-athlete
from the team, with the approval of the Athletic
Director, in consultation with the coach.
The Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance will be
informed of the decision to remove the student-athlete
from the team. Should conditions warrant the
discontinuation of the student-athlete’s grant-in-aid,
both the Director of Financial Aid and the Dean of
Students will be informed of the decision. If the grantin-aid is removed, a letter will be issued from the
Director of Financial Aid to the student-athlete via
certified mail regarding the grant termination and
his/her right to an appeal.
V. Incomplete Grades and
Repeating a Course
A grade of "I" in any course means your work in that
class is incomplete due to circumstances beyond your
control, as determined by the instructor, and that
completion of the work could lead to a passing grade.
Any grade of "I" must be removed by completing the
course work no later than six weeks after the
beginning of the following semester. If at the end of
this six-week period, the "I" grade has not been
changed, the grade will automatically be changed to
an "F". The instructor may grant a one-year
extension. Failure to complete work by the end of
this period will result in the automatic conversion of
the “I” to and “F.”
When a failed course is repeated, only the more
recent of the two grades will be counted in the
computation of the quality point average (QPA). The
original grade will, however, be kept on the transcript
marked as "repeat." This policy is limited to the first
two "Fs" received during undergraduate study. This
process is not automatic. Students who have repeated
a course and wish to make an adjustment to their
transcript must submit the "Repeated Course Form"
to the Office of the Registrar. If you would like to
repeat a course in which a grade of “D” or better was
achieved, please see the Athletic Academic Advisor
before registering for this class! This will affect your
eligibility!
IV. Exit Surveys
All student-athletes completing their athletic eligibility
and/or graduating are requested to complete an exit
survey. Exit surveys are conducted by the Athletic
Director and are confidential. Upon completing your
eligibility, please report to the Athletic Office before
leaving school to complete the survey process. In
addition, all student-athletes who quit athletic teams or
decide to transfer from American International College
will be asked to fill out an exit survey with the AIC
Compliance Office.
24
To withdraw from a course, you must have the
prior approval of the Head Coach and your
Advisor!!
VI. Time Management
Proper management of your time is important. Time
management gives you a chance to spend your most valuable
resources the way you want.
Twelve ways to get the most out of now:
1.
Be aware of your best time of day. Most people
learn best in daylight hours. If this is true for you,
schedule study time for your most difficult subjects
during the day.
2.
Study difficult or boring subjects first. If your
chemistry problems put you to sleep get to them first
while you are fresh. Save the subjects you enjoy for
later.
3.
Avoid scheduling marathon study sessions. When
possible, study in shorter sessions. Two three-hour
sessions are far more productive than one nine hour
session. Be sure to take a planned fifteen-minute
break every hour.
4.
Use waiting time. A two-hour bus ride to a game,
an hour between classes, twenty minutes waiting for
the dentist --waiting time adds up. You can carry 3
x 5 cards with equations, formulas, or definitions
and then pull them out anywhere to study. You'll be
absolutely amazed what you can memorize in
twenty minutes.
5.
Use a regular study area and do not study in bed.
We all know what will happen. Your body knows
where you are. Learning requires energy. Getting
too comfortable will lead to sleep. Designate an
area that you will use consistently for study. It may
be at the library, in an empty room, or at the desk in
your room. When you arrive at this place, your
body will automatically sense that it is time to study.
Also, don't watch television, listen to music, or eat
when you study. These are all distractions that take
away from concentration.
6.
Pay attention to your attention. When you have a
break in concentration say, "STOP" to yourself and
continue to focus on your studying. If the thoughts
won't leave your mind, try writing them down.
7.
Avoid noise distractions. The majority of research
indicates that silence is the best form of music for
study.
8.
Stay off the telephone. The telephone is the perfect
interrupter. You do not have to be a telephone
victim. Be assertive and tell the caller, "I am
studying."
25
9.
Set goals. If you have a project to do and it is hard
to get motivated, break down the assignment into
small parts. For example, if you have a twenty-page
paper to write, begin by writing the first page only
as your goal for the day. The satisfaction of getting
one thing done often spurs you on to get one more
thing done. Be sure you set realistic goals. Do not
set yourself up for failure by planning to do more
than you are able to accomplish.
10. If you were an employer, would you pay yourself for
what you are doing now? If you were employed as a
student, would you be earning your wages? In other
words, a mediocre job will cost you in the long run.
11. Keep a daily "To -Do" list. Make a daily list of
things you need to accomplish for that day. Then
prioritize the item by marking the most important
item as "a", continue marking the next important
item with "B" etc. If possible, complete the list the
night before you use it. Use your list to keep
yourself on track. Don't be tempted to skip to the
next item. As you complete tasks, cross them off the
list. This will show you that you are making
progress.
12. Stay organized.
VII. Advisory Councils
Two advisory councils are available to the
Athletics Director in making major decisions
affecting the administration of the athletic program.
1. Faculty Athletics Council
The Faculty Athletics Council advises the Athletics Director
on all major decisions affecting the administration of his/her
department. The Faculty Athletics Council is composed of
faculty appointed by the College.
2.
Represent respective teams and special student
support groups.
3.
Commission studies on matters of concern in
intercollegiate athletics.
4.
Develop service programs to benefit the College and
its surrounding communities.
5.
Each Coach will select 2-3 of their athletes to serve
as Student-Athlete Advisory Committee members.
All SAAC members must meet the eligibility
standards set forth by the NCAA and American
International College.
6.
Elected officials shall consist of a president,
vice-president and secretary.
7.
Prospective elected officers must meet the following
criteria:
The FAC is required to meet twice each semester and at
additional times as may appear necessary.
The Chair of the Faculty Athletics Council is the Faculty
Athletics Representative (FAR) whose primary
responsibilities are to evaluate and ensure academic integrity
of the intercollegiate athletics program, to facilitate
institutional control of the athletics program, and to enhance
the student-athlete experience.
The FAR addresses issues of academic integrity, compliance,
student-athlete experience and communication between the
institution and the athletics program. Currently, the FAR at
American International College is Professor Jill Payne, of the
Criminal Justice Department. Student-athletes are welcome to
contact Professor Payne at X3409 if they have concerns in
any of these areas. The FAR reports directly to the President.
2. The Student-Athlete Advisory
Committee (SAAC)
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee acts as a liaison
between the student-athletes, student support personnel, and
the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics. As mandated by
the NCAA (Bylaw 6.1.4), the SAAC is composed of selected
student-athletes representing each sport and is convened on a
regular basis. The purpose of the Committee is to provide
feedback to the Director of Athletics on issues pertinent to
student-athletes, to offer perspective into the planning process
of the Athletic Department in order that these are
communicated to other student-athletes and teams.
The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee has the
following responsibilities:
1.
26
Broaden the involvement of student-athletes, student
support personnel, and the Department of Athletics.

Be a representative of a varsity team in good
standing with the College and the head coach.

Have a genuine concern and interest in the
activities and the advancement of American
International College intercollegiate athletics.

Attend Student-Athlete Council meetings
regularly.

Have the ability to organize and coordinate
Student-Athlete Council activities.
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VIII. Athletic Department Policies and Procedures
Student-Athlete Behavior
The purpose of intercollegiate athletics is to provide an
opportunity for you to develop your potential as an athlete in an
educational setting. American International College has, by
Division II standards, a high visibility program. Your public
exposures in competition and with the media place you among
the most visible groups in the College community. What you
do and the way in which you do it are often highlighted, placing
you in a public position, which requires exemplary behavior.
You will be looked upon as a role model, particularly by young
people, and it's important that your personal conduct be above
reproach at all times.
Remember, as an American International College student, you
are totally responsible for your own behavior. You are expected
to obey the laws, rules and regulations of the College and the
community at large; and if you violate their laws, be prepared
for the penalties that may be imposed.
Your behavior has a definite impact on the reputation of the
Athletics Department and on the attitude that the College
community has toward you and your fellow student-athletes.
Your conduct will be closely scrutinized as you sit in the
classroom, as you compete on the grounds, as you travel, and as
you compete off-campus.
In a nutshell, you will be expected to conduct yourself with
integrity, sportsmanship, honesty, pride, and humility.
Conduct, Rules, Sources
The Athletic Department requires coaches, trainers, and staff to
conduct themselves in a way that creates a positive image of the
people, values, and traditions associated with the College and
the NCAA. As a student-athlete, you are expected to uphold
the same standards of conduct that have been adopted by the
Department of Athletics and the College.
All American International College students are subject to the
College’s Code of Conduct. The principles of the Code apply
to behavior of students while on College premises or while
involved in an Off-campus College activity. Because of the
visibility of student-athletes, you will be expected to extend
these codes of behavior into all public behaviors. The
Department of Athletics will review violations and apply
sanctions as deemed appropriate.
27
In addition, each student-athlete is subject to all the rules
and regulations that are required for individual
participation on a specific team. While these rules may
be particular to each team, they are presented to the
student-athlete by the coaching staff with the full support
of the athletics administration.
Once registered at the College, you are expected to
conform to all federal, state and local laws, as well as
College regulations. As a student-athlete, you are in no
way exempt from penalty if you violate these laws.
Moreover, students penalized for violating public laws
are not exempt from further prosecution by College
authorities if their actions also violate College rules.
Gambling
We sincerely hope that you, as a student-athlete, will
never be approached in an attempt to involve you in a
gambling situation. However, in the past, student-athletes
have become involved in compromising gambling
situations. The results of this type of involvement can be
both severe and tragic, not only for the individual, but for
the entire College athletics program.
Gambling is one of the major sources of revenue for
organized crime. Be aware that the gambling industry is
constantly seeking sources of information to set the
betting line or odds.
The College and the Athletic Department are committed
to combating all forms of gambling. You should keep in
mind that your participation in gambling interests, even
the most minor fashion, would jeopardize your athletic
career.
Policies and Procedures, Continued
Take note of the following gambling guidelines:

You are not eligible to compete if you knowingly
provide information concerning intercollegiate
competition to individuals involved in organized
gambling activities; solicit a bet on any intercollegiate
team; accept a bet on any team representing the
institution; solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate
competition for any item (cash, shirt, dinner);
participate in any gambling activity that involves
intercollegiate athletics to a bookmaker, a parlay card
or any other method employed by organized gambling.
(NCAA Bylaw 10.3.) There is new legislation that has
been enacted by the NCAA that includes all Internet
gambling as well. If you are caught by the College
participating in gambling activities via the Internet,
you will lose your eligibility for at least one year,
possibly more.

You are not eligible to compete if you have shown
dishonesty in evading or violating NCAA regulations.

Don’t accept any “free” rides from strangers, such as
meals, presents, etc. You are required by the Athletic
Department and the NCAA to report any individual
who offers gifts, money or favors in exchange for
supplying information or for attempting to alter the
outcome of any contest.

Be aware of the legalities of gambling at an
institutional and state level. Understand the
consequences at the College level may be expulsion
and that the College will also assist with the
enforcement of federal, state, and local anti-bribery
laws.
Complimentary Admissions
An institution may provide up to four complimentary
admissions per home and away contest to a studentathlete in the sport in which the individual participates
(practices or competes).
Division II Regulations:
1.
Admissions shall be provided through a pass list for
individuals designated by the student-athlete.
2.
The student-athlete's eligibility shall be affected by
involvement in receipt of more than the permissible
four complimentary admissions or the sale or
exchange of a complimentary admission for any
item of value.
3.
A fellow student is any student with an appropriate
student identification card from AIC or from any
other four-year collegiate institution. A student-ID
must be presented at the gate in order to receive a
ticket.
4.
All individuals utilizing a complimentary admission
will be required to present valid identification at the
gate.
5.
Individuals designated by the student-athlete to
receive complimentary admissions are not permitted
to receive any type of payment for these admissions
or to exchange or assign them for any item of value.
6.
American International College may not provide a
special arrangement to sell a student-athlete ticket(s)
to an athletics event. Tickets shall be available for
purchase by student-athletes according to the same
purchasing procedures used for other students.

Do not sell your complimentary admissions to anyone.
7.

You must compete with honesty and sportsmanship
at all times so that you represent the honor and
dignity of fair play. (NCAA Bylaw 10.01.1.)
A student-athlete may not purchase tickets for an
athletics contest from the institution and then sell
the tickets at a price greater than their face value.
8.
American International College or any
representative of its athletics interests may not
purchase or otherwise obtain tickets to a
professional sports contest and make these tickets
available to student-athletes enrolled in a NCAA
member institution. It is permissible for American
International College to provide tickets for team
entertainment at an away-from-home contest.
28
Hazing
In recent years hazing has received national attention from
the news media. A number of the news stories cite instances
in which the requirements associated with hazing have placed
pressure on individuals to participate in activities that
compromise their inherent dignity, if not subject them to
circumstances that break the law. Because of its inherent
potential risks and consequences, hazing (see definition
below) by any athletic team is forbidden by American
International College Athletic Department policy.
Hazing, as defined by the Alfred Report (Alfred University)
is: “Any activity expected of someone joining a group that
humiliates, degrades, abuses or endangers, regardless of the
person’s willingness to participate. This does not include
activities such as rookies carrying the balls, team parties with
community games, or going out with your teammates, unless
an atmosphere of humiliation, degradation, abuse or danger
arises.”
Using this definition, 80% of a recent NCAA student-athlete
poll reported being subjected to one or more typical hazing
behaviors as part of their team initiations. Hazing activity
ranges from potentially harmless and humorous, to highly
humiliating, criminal, dangerous and even fatal. There is a
direct correlation between hazing and alcohol consumption
and other substance abuse on college campuses. One of the
greatest difficulties in coming to terms with the definition and
identification of hazing is that it is difficult to know how
another individual will interpret or experience any given
event or activity. Therefore, what is degrading to one might
appear meaningless to another: What feels supportive to some
may be experienced as dangerous by others. Because of the
wide range of possible outcomes and consequences, many of
which are potentially harmful, hazing is not allowed on the
American International College campus. Inasmuch as hazing
is forbidden by College policy, student-athletes are bound by
the same institutional, as well as Athletics policy. We
acknowledge hazing has gained acceptance among a number
of student-athletes because it is believed to:
(a) Accomplish team building,
(b) Instill needed humility in new team members,
(c) Establish a necessary team hierarchy for team decision
making, and
(d) Allow individuals free choice regarding their
participation.
29
While these arguments appear they are necessary for
team bonding it is the goal of the College to integrate
alternative initiation rituals and team building activities.
With careful support and guidance from coaches and
administrators, student-athletes will be expected to
participate in dialogue to refine and interpret the
dangers of hazing, as well as educating one another
regarding the complex subtleties of its affects. In
addition, student-athletes will be expected to assist in
the crafting and implementing policies and regulations
to both prevent and respond to hazing. While the
College has established a zero tolerance towards
hazing, the students must be involved in translating and
building upon this framework.
Each student-athlete will sign a contract at the
beginning of each season that indicates their
understanding of the meaning of and rules against
hazing, their commitment from participating in hazing,
and their willingness to bring information regarding
occurrences of hazing to the attention of the appropriate
responsible adult.
In conclusion, we stress the importance of each team
member to be held accountable for adherence to this
policy. In the end it will be up to each individual team
to determine ways in which they will be successful. By
signing this contract and making you aware of the
negative consequences of hazing, we hope that you will
opt for success.
Research data taken from Alfred Report as presented by
the Presidents Committee on the Prevention of Hazing
in Intercollegiate Sports at the University of Vermont,
February 21, 2000.
American International College - Department of Athletics
Student-Athlete Agreement Concerning Hazing
Name _______________________ Team _________________ Phone #: _______________
The Department of Athletics at American International College supports only those activities which are constructive, educational,
inspirational, and that contribute to the intellectual and personal development of students. AIC Athletics unequivocally opposes any
situation created intentionally to produce mental or physical discomfort, embarrassment, harassment, or ridicule.
AIC interprets hazing as any act whether physical, mental, emotional, or psychological, which subjects another person, voluntarily
or involuntarily, to anything that may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate, harass, or intimidate him/her, or compels another
member to participate in any activity which is against college policy or state/federal law.
Actions and activities that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:















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Any type of initiation or other activity where there is an expectation of individuals joining a particular team to participate in
behavior designed to humiliate, degrade, or abuse them regardless of the person's willingness to participate.
Forcing, requiring, or pressuring an individual to consume alcohol or any other substance.
Forcing, requiring, or pressuring an individual to shave any part of their body, including the hair on their head.
Any requirement or pressure put on an individual to participate in any activity which is illegal, perverse, publicly indecent,
contrary to his/her genuine morals and/or beliefs, e.g. public profanity, indecent or lewd conduct, or sexual gestures in public.
Any activity or action that creates a risk to the health, safety, or property of the College or any member of its community.
Forcing or requiring calisthenics, such as push-ups, sit-ups, and runs.
Assigning or endorsing "pranks", such as stealing or harassment of another organization.
Awakening or disturbing individuals during normal sleeping hours.
Expecting or pressuring individuals to participate in an activity in which the full membership is not willing to participate.
Physical abuse of any kind.
Forcing, encouraging, or pressuring someone to wear in public apparel which is conspicuous and not within the norm of what is
considered to be in good taste.
Engaging in public stunts and buffoonery.
Nudity at any time, or forced reading of pornographic material.
Paddling, beating, or otherwise permitting a member to hit other members.
Having substances such as eggs, mud, paint, honey, etc., thrown at, poured on, or otherwise applied to the body of a member.
Morally degrading/humiliating games or other activity that makes a member the object of amusement, ridicule, or intimidation.
Subjecting a member to cruel and unusual psychological conditions.
I have been given an opportunity to read this policy and understand the following:
(initial) _____
The policy and regulations of the Athletics Dept. pertaining to hazing
(initial) _____
I agree and promise not to participate in any activity deemed to be hazing. I have read the examples of hazing as
described in the American International College Hazing Policy (above).
(initial) _____
I understand that if I am in violation of this policy I will be subject to discipline that may include, but is not
limited to, departmental or College probation, suspension from the team and/or the College; expulsion from the
team and/or College. In addition, I am aware that the team may be subject to group discipline that can include, but
is not limited to, team probation, cancellation of individual contests, and/or cancellation of the entire season.
My signature below indicates that I have read and retained a copy of AIC Athletics Policy on Hazing.
Signature of Team Member ______________________________ Date _____________________
30
Alcohol and Drug Policy
The Athletics Department at American International College, its
coaching personnel, physicians, athletics trainers, and
administrators strongly believe that the use of alcohol and
illegal drugs (excluding those drugs prescribed by a physician to
treat a specific medical condition) can be detrimental to the
physical and mental well being of its student-athletes, no matter
when such use should occur during the year. Additionally, use
of alcohol and other drugs can seriously interfere with the
performance of individuals as students and as athletes and can
be injurious to student-athletes and their teammates, particularly
when participating in athletic competition or practice.
Various forms of alcohol and drugs have worked their way into
practically every segment of society, and athletics apparently is
not immune to this phenomenon. New risk studies have
indicated that the problem is not limited to any particular group,
but rather touches all segments of society. Furthermore,
because athletes are so often in the public eye, alcohol/drugrelated activity on their part is cause for adverse attention. Also,
on college or university campuses, athletes are often perceived
as role models and therefore, accept the responsibility to be as
physically and mentally healthy as they can be.
The Athletic Department and coaches fully support the
College's efforts and response to violations for the institution's
regulations governing the use of alcohol and illegal drug use as
published in the Student-Athlete Handbook. The Athletics
Department, therefore, feels in addition to penalties imposed by
the College, that such violations will also be addressed in the
athletic arena.
In light of this, the Athletics Department has implemented a
drug and alcohol policy, which includes punitive measures,
select NCAA drug testing and counseling efforts to assist and
benefit the men and women athletes at American International
College. A counseling/educational component will be strongly
encouraged for any athlete involved in alcohol or drug use. The
Athletics Department reserves the right to notify parents of
these actions. Please read Section XIV, specifically pages 46
and 47, for a listing of NCAA banned substances and drug
testing protocols.
The purpose of the American International College
Intercollegiate Athletics Alcohol and Drug Policy is to inform
and educate the student-athlete. This policy is based on the
Athletic Department's belief that alcohol and drug use are
detrimental to the student and are a violation of team rules.
Special goals of this policy are:
 To educate American International College athletes
concerning the associated problems of alcohol and drug
use.
 To discourage drug or alcohol use by American
International College student-athletes.
 To identify and offer treatment to those athletes who are
exhibiting signs of alcohol and chemical dependency.
 To provide reasonable safeguards that every athlete is
medically competent to participate in athletic competitions.
 To encourage discussion about any questions the athletes
may have, either specifically or generally, about use of
alcohol or drugs.
The following drug or alcohol use is considered a violation of
institutional policy:
Alcohol
*
Underage consumption or possession of alcohol.
*
Association with a gathering involving underage
consumption or possession of alcohol even on the part
of someone 21 or older.
Alcohol and drug violations, including becoming ill,
public drunkenness, disorderly misconduct, property
destruction, and intimidation or other infringements on
the rights of others.
The provision of alcoholic beverages to those who are
not of age (including visiting recruits) or the
unauthorized dispersion of alcohol.
*
*
Illegal Drugs
*
*
*
*
31
Being in the presence of marijuana or marijuana
smoke to a point suggesting possible involvement with
marijuana use.
The use or possession of marijuana or paraphernalia
for marijuana use.
The use or possession of cocaine, LSD, heroin and
other drugs considered both illegal and dangerous.
Certain prescription drugs possessed or used without a
prescription such as amphetamines (including Ritalin),
barbiturates, steroids, anti-depressants, designer drugs,
and certain classes of "muscle-relaxants" are included
in this category.
The sale of any illegal drugs.
Alcohol and Drug Policy, Continued
Violations of this policy will have the following consequences,
both in and out of season. Please note that a positive drug test
results in a different set of sanctions – please see “Drug
Testing” located in the Athletic Training section.
First Offense. A meeting will take place between the studentathlete, the coach, and the Athletic Director to discuss the
incident. Any further consequence will be discussed at that
meeting. Student-athlete is encouraged to attend on-campus
counseling. After a period of two to four weeks, a drug test will
be administered. No other action will be required if the test is
negative. If the test is positive, the sanctions listed under the
“Drug Testing Policy” located in the Athletic Training section
will be enacted.
Second Offense. The Student-Athlete will face indefinite
suspension from participation in American International
College Athletics. The Student-Athlete will be referred to the
Counseling Department that will act as a referral source to an
outside agency for full evaluation. The recommendations of
that agency will be followed if the student-athlete returns to the
team. The student-athlete will incur any payment to this outside
agency.
Third Offense. The Student-Athlete will face permanent
suspension from participation in American International
College Athletics.
Results of Irresponsible Drinking
The following conditions could result from irresponsible
drinking:
 Academic failure - resulting from partying instead of
studying, sleeping in, cutting classes, attending classes
high or hung over;
 Accidents - at least half, sometimes more, automobile,
motorcycle and boating accident fatalities involve
alcohol. 70% of drowning victims and 50% of burn
victims were using alcohol at the time of their
accidents, and many hurt or killed in falls were
impaired by alcohol use;
 Suicide - since alcohol is a depressant, drinking may
make a person feel worse. Twenty-five percent (25%)
of suicides involve alcohol.
 Fights - alcohol lowers a person’s inhibitions, allowing
the person to behave with less restraint than when
sober. This means he/she can be more easily frustrated
or angered, reacting violently to situations, which
normally might be ignored. The user is also more likely
to become verbally abusive, thereby inviting a violent
reaction;
32

Vandalism - breaking windows, tearing down exit
signs, pulling fire alarms, throwing food, stuffing
toilets, etc. are almost always alcohol related.
 Unsafe sex - use of adequate protection is likely to
be forgotten when one’s judgment is clouded by
excess alcohol.
 Legal problems - unruly behavior may result in
mandated change of room assignment, being
removed from residence hall, suspension from the
College because of offenses engaged in while
drunk, involvement with police, etc.;
 Developments of addiction - 10% of college
students are addicted to alcohol and other
substances.
Date rape is a serious offense warranting education and
awareness. Acquaintance rape or date rape has become a
topic of conversation on college campuses nationwide. You
may be unaware that the term “rape” includes types of
behavior other than brutalizing of a person or sexual
intercourse at knifepoint. Sexual intercourse against an
individual’s will is also rape.
As a man, be careful, especially if you’ve been drinking,
that you do not misread signals. Trouble has often occurred
when a woman has remained alone with several men after a
drinking party. While some may feel that this shows poor
judgment on the woman’s part, it certainly does not justify
rape.
As a woman, be conscious of the signals you send. Don’t
place yourself in situations that can be misunderstood or
get out of hand. Good judgment can often save you from
an embarrassing or painful situation.
Conclusion
It is believed and hoped that implementation of this
intercollegiate alcohol and drug and education policy will
serve to benefit all connected with intercollegiate athletics
at the College. Further, we believe that participation in
this program will make the men and women who
participate in athletics at the College and who represent
the College in various areas of athletic competition better
students, better athletes, and better able to make
individual, informed, and intelligent decisions with
reference to alcohol and drug usage, both now and in the
future.
Tobacco Policy
American International College does not condone the use of
tobacco. Tobacco use often results in a physical dependency in
the form of nicotine addiction. The negative effects of tobacco
use are well documented in the high instance of oral, lung, and
other forms of cancer. Even casual users may become addicted.
Smokeless tobacco is included in this policy.
The use of tobacco is prohibited in connection with any
intercollegiate team function. A team function is defined as any
activity, which is held as a team whether it be meetings,
practices, games, or informal workouts on and off the grounds
of the College.
Effective August 1994, NCAA legislation prohibits use of
tobacco products, a ban that has applied to NCAA
championship events since 1991. "One of the responsibilities of
membership is to comply with the rules," says Steven A.
Mallonee, NCAA Director of Legislative Services. "If you
know a student-athlete is using tobacco during a practice or
game, the institution is obligated to apply the rule (just like any
other bylaw in the NCAA Manual)."
Benefits, Gifts and Services
It should be assumed that the following benefits would not be
permissible to provide student-athletes:
Special discounts, payment arrangements or credit on
purchases or services (i.e.: airline tickets, clothing, and
dry cleaning);
free or reduced cost of professional services
use of telephone without charge for long distance
call
use of a departmental copy machine or fax machine
free or reduced rates for services from a business
owned by a departmental staff member or booster
(i.e.: movie tickets, dinner, or other entertainment);
cash or loan for money;
"If one school allows (its student-athletes or coaches to use)
tobacco and another school reports that to the Enforcement
Department, and it can be proven that tobacco was used, the
(potential) penalty will likely be more severe, just as with other
violations (where rules are normally violated and not selfreported)."
guarantee of bond or bail;
Extra Benefits
use of personal properties (i.e.: stereo, boat,
apartment, summer home);
An extra benefit is any special arrangement by an
institutional employee or a representative of the institution's
athletics interests to provide a student-athlete or the studentathlete's relative or friend a benefit not expressly authorized
by NCAA legislation. Receipt of a benefit by student-athletes
or their relatives or friends is not a violation of NCAA
legislation if it is demonstrated that the same benefit is
generally available to the institution's students or their
relatives or friends or to a particular segment of the student
body (e.g., foreign students, minority students) determined on
a basis unrelated to athletics ability. [16.02.3]
33
use of an automobile;
loan or arrangements for a loan by departmental
staff member by signing or cosigning for a loan;
birthday, Christmas, or other holiday gifts.
IX. Support Services for the Student-Athlete
Study Halls
See page 36
Academic Monitoring
The coaches regularly monitor the progress of student-athletes.
All athletes submit a copy of their academic schedule to their
coach at the beginning of each semester. Progress reports are
received at least once during each semester, with additional
correspondence for “at risk” students. Information received is
shared with both the student-athlete and the coaches. In the
event a problem is discovered, an individual conference is
scheduled with the athlete to develop strategies in order to
rectify the situation.
Blake Learning Center
The Blake Learning Center (BLC) is a valuable
resource for all students at American International
College. The BLC provides countless services for both
the mainstream student as well as students with special
needs. The staff at the Learning Center offers, one-onone assistance and is available to assist both students
and faculty alike. The Learning Center can help
generate ideas, organize an argument, clarify a purpose
or provide an objective response to a draft prior to the
submission of a work.
AIC Student-Athlete Drug Testing
Program
The Athletic Department Staff, including Athletic
Trainers, Coaches, and Administrators are responsible
for recognition of drug abuse among student-athletes
and the need for drug counseling. It has been shown
that unannounced, random drug testing helps to direct
counseling services to those student-athletes that need
them the most. As such, drug-testing simply becomes
an extension of the counseling function of the Athletic
Department. The Athletic Department drug-testing
program has the following objectives:
1. To direct student-athletes in need to drug counseling
services.
2. To deter student-athletes from using drugs.
3. To maintain the integrity of the Athletic program by
identifying the chronic user.
The purpose of drug-testing at American International
College is educational, not punitive. The Office of
Health Services in conjunction with the Department of
Athletics coordinates all steps of the drug testing
procedure. The goal is to direct the student-athlete
towards receiving the proper drug counseling, offered
free-of-charge at the AIC Counseling Department.
34
Counseling Center
Student-athletes share a variety of personal, social and
academic concerns. The staff of the Counseling Center is
available for consultation in response to these concerns. If the
staff feels that a situation requires more than consultation, the
student-athlete may be referred to psychologists or
professional counselor. Group programs dealing with
personal development, wellness, as well as various other
support groups are available. All sessions, either group or
individual, are held in strict confidence. Services are provided
in personal counseling and psychotherapy, career
development, educational counseling, alcohol and substance
abuse consultation
Key NCAA Academic Rules
1. NCAA rules require you to be enrolled in at least 12
degree credits in order to practice & compete. Never drop
below 12 degree credits without consulting your academic
advisor and the Athletics Department Compliance Officer.
Dropping below 12 degree credits will render you
ineligible from athletic participation (practice and games)
immediately.
2. NCAA rules require you to earn an average of at least
12 credit hours for each semester in residence. College rules
require you to earn at least 48 credit hours by the beginning
of your third year.
NCAA CHAMPS
Life-skills Program
3. NCAA rules require you declare your major by the
beginning of your third year (fifth semester).
The CHAMPS/ Life-skills Program is a comprehensive
program that provides educational experience and services in
order to develop a well-balanced lifestyle for the studentathlete. The total development of the student-athlete is fostered
in the following areas;
4. Not more than 25% of the credit hours required for
NCAA eligibility may be earned in a summer session. For
example, if you need 48 credit hours in order to be eligible,
then not more than 12 (48 X .25) of those hours can be earned
during the summer.
Academics
Athletics
Career Development
Personal Development
Community Involvement
In addition to these rules you must pass a minimum of
six (6) semester hours the previous full-time term of
enrollment in order to satisfy the NCAA progress toward
degree requirements (Bylaw 14.4.3.1.(a)).
Transfers
Programs are offered throughout the school year to enhance
and support the total student-athlete experience at American
International College, and prepare the student-athlete for the
challenges of life beyond college. Topics may include, time
management, nutrition, stress management, alcohol choices,
media relations and career development.
X. Academic Advising
All student-athletes at American International College are
expected to confer regularly with their faculty advisors.
Academic advising can provide valuable information with a
variety of concerns including:








35
College procedures
Educational and career goal clarification
Academic planning
Eligibility and satisfactory progress requirements,
and declarations of majors
Skills development and learning support
Time management
Referrals to College resources
General strategies for succeeding at the College
Transfers to AIC
The NCAA requires extensive documentation on a transfer
student who wishes to compete in athletics at a new school
(referred to as the certifying institution) prior to certification of
eligibility. All student-athletes who have attended any two or
four-year school, even those who did not participate in athletics
at the former institution, are considered transfers.
Two-Year School
Any student-athlete who has attended a two-year school will be
required to fill out a transfer history form and set up a meeting
with the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance prior to
practice or competition.
Four-Year School
An athletics staff member or other representative of the
institution’s athletics interest shall not make contact with the
student-athlete of an NCAA or NAIA four-year collegiate
institution, directly or indirectly, without obtaining written
permission from the first institution’s athletic director.
Transfers from AIC
Any American International College student that wishes to
transfer to another institution must be released by AIC before he
or she can talk to another coach. NCAA Bylaw 14.5.1
requires a student who transfers from any collegiate
institution to complete one full academic year of residence
at the certifying institution before being eligible to compete.
AIC will consider waivers of this requirement, but will NOT
waive the one-year residence requirement for studentathletes that wish to transfer within conference. Denials for
release will include written notification of the institution’s
appeals process. Any student-athlete that wishes to transfer
must be in good standing with the AIC Business Office (no
outstanding bills). Further, the student-athlete must notify his or
her coach prior to being released.
Hearing Procedures:


Athletics Appeals Committee (transfers)

In compliance with NCAA Bylaw 14.5.5.3.10-(d) this
committee will hear appeals brought forth by current and/or
former student-athletes regarding transfers.

The charge of this committee includes:
 Providing the student-athlete an opportunity to appeal
 Rendering a final decision regarding the appeal and
communicating its decision in writing to all approved
parties
 Informing the key executive college officials of any
actions by this committee
The membership of the committee must be from outside of the
Athletics Department and includes:






Faculty Athletics Council Chair
Director of Financial Aid
One Member of SAAC
Two faculty members
Two college administrators
The Chair of the Faculty Athletics Council presides
over the hearing and votes only in the events it is
necessary to break a tie
Communication Prior to the Hearing:



36
The student-athlete must submit written notification of
appeal to the Faculty Athletics Council Chair within
11 days from the date of delivery of the decision.
When such an appeal request is filed, the Athletic
Director will be informed. The Faculty Athletics
Chair will then contact the members of the ad hoc
Athletic Appeals Committee to arrange a hearing
within 30 calendar days of receiving the request.
Further, the student-athlete must be given a copy of
the institution’s established policies and procedures
for conducting the required hearing, including the
deadline by which the student-athlete must request
the appeal
A summary of each party’s argument and a list of
witnesses, if appropriate, will be submitted to the
Faculty Athletics Chair at least 72 hours prior to the
hearing. These materials will be circulated to the
appealing student-athlete, the Athletic Director, and
committee members prior to the hearing.


The appealing student-athlete and the Athletic Director
are responsible for arranging that the witnesses
included in the respective lists are available at the
hearing. Witnesses will remain outside the meeting
room until called by the committee.
The Assistant Athletic Director for NCAA
compliance will be available to the committee to
provide advice concerning NCAA issues.
The Athletic Director (or designee) may address the
committee to present information brought forth by
the Department, but that individual has no vote.
Students are permitted to bring an advisor to the
hearing. However, advisors are not authorized or
allowed to participate in the hearing. No attorneys
will be allowed.
The student-athlete and the Athletic Director (or
designee) must present all pertinent information at
the time of the hearing. Lack of preparation will not
be cause for another hearing at a later date.
A final written decision will be communicated to the
student-athlete and the Athletics Director within two
weeks of the close of the hearing. Actions the
committee are authorized to take include:
1. Uphold the decision of the Athletic
Department.
2. Overturn the decision and waive the oneyear residence requirement upon transfer.
3. Modify the sanctions as deemed
appropriate by the appeals committee.
Study Hall
Student-athletes are responsible for following the directive of
their head coach as to what standards or expectations are to be
followed regarding a formal study hall program. Each head
coach determines mandatory attendance for individual studentathletes. Student-athletes will be recommended for study hall
based on the following criteria:




Student-athletes on academic probation
All first-year students
All continuing and four-year college transfer
students with a semester and/or cumulative GPA
of 2.00 and below.
Transfer students with a cumulative GPA of 2.00
or below.
Study Hall Procedures
1. You are responsible for reporting to your coach (or the
coach’s designee) to sign-in when you arrive and to
sign-out when you depart. Periodic checks will be made
to verify your attendance.
2. You are expected to maintain an atmosphere of study at
all times. Should you be unable to do so, you will be
asked to leave. A meeting will be arranged with your
head coach before you are allowed to return. Chronic
absences from study hall are subject to review by the
Director of Athletics who will determine, if necessary,
whether you will continue intercollegiate athletic
participation.
3. You are expected to cooperate with the coach/designee in
charge of the study hall. Any problems in this area will
be reported to the Director of Athletics.
4. Be prepared with books and materials needed to study
and complete assignments. Plan ahead!
5. Walk-mans, radios, food, drink, newspapers, magazines,
recreational books, talking, sleeping and profanity are not
allowed in the study hall.
6. If you are working with a tutor, be prepared with specific
issues and problems when you arrive. Bring all materials
and books used in the class.
7. You are expected to keep all scheduled tutorial
appointments. Should there be an emergency and you
must cancel, call the tutor immediately.
8. The amount of time spent in study hall will be recorded
on a weekly basis.
9. Attendance at labs or other tutorials and/or study sessions
in place of required study hall assignments must have the
prior approval of your coach. Library time alone will not
satisfy study hall hours unless there is a coach/designee
present.
Book Policy
Books are typically provided to full-scholarship studentathletes.
Procedure for Obtaining Books:
1.
2.
3.
4.
A student-athlete can only receive books in a course in
which he/she is actually enrolled, and can only obtain
books in person.
A student-athlete may only receive books that are on the
syllabus. Course-related materials such as art supplies
and tapes are not permitted.
If a book is not available, the student-athlete will receive
a special form to be filled out to procure the book.
A student-athlete who drops a course and adds a different
course will not be allowed to obtain books for the new
course until books for the dropped course are returned.
Procedure for Returning Books:
1.
2.
3.
37
Student-athletes return books directly to the
Compliance Office.
The student-athlete will automatically be billed for any
book not returned.
NCAA rules prohibit student-athletes from selling
books.
XI. Academic Certification
The Department of Athletics maintains all records relating to
satisfactory progress towards a degree for each student-athlete.
Forms verifying satisfactory progress toward a degree are filed
as required by the NCAA and are held for audit at any time.
Official transcripts are held in the Registrar's Office. The
Registrar certifies the continuing eligibility of student-athletes.
XII. Fostering Individual Development
The primary focus of the Department of Athletics is the
personal development of student-athletes as they pursue their
educational and athletic endeavors at American International
College. The Department of Athletics cooperates fully in
assisting the student-athletes in becoming fully integrated
into the College and to enhance the quality of their lives as
students. The Department of Athletics promotes personal
growth by providing education in the area of decisionmaking, social values, health, career planning and goal
setting. Other professional support service offices of the
College work cooperatively with the Department of Athletics
in promoting these goals. The integral part of what the
Department of Athletics is expected to achieve is to assist
students in every reasonable way to maximize their
interpersonal communication skills and to develop their
leadership potential. Students are encouraged to use this
period of their life to develop self-discipline, values and
ethics, which will foster a productive life after leaving the
College.
XIII. Future Career Plans
The Office of Career Development offers student-athletes
assistance in choosing a major or career path as well as
preparing and planning to secure your first position after
graduation. This area of the Handbook is intended to provide
you with information on the programs and services available
to you.
showcases your academic and athletic activities as well as
any work experience you may have had.
Interviewing Skills
Workshops and individual assistance are available to help
you develop your interviewing skills and be prepared for the
sometimes-difficult questions you will be asked. Career
counselors can also work with you on how to discuss your
athletic involvement in an interview to showcase the skills
and traits you have developed as a result. These include
leadership skills, ability to work as part of a team, work ethic,
perseverance and others.
Internships, including paid internships and
internships for academic credit
Career Development staff can work with you to locate
opportunities for the summer or during the academic year that
fit with your schedule and will help you to gain experience
related to your major. Relevant experience is one of the top
criteria used by employers when hiring students after
graduation. Paid opportunities exist, and you may also be
able to earn academic credit for your internship, which can
take the place of a class.
On-campus recruitment for seniors
It is important to remember that recruiting for positions after
graduation begins early in the fall of your senior year. You
should be involved in on-campus interviewing activities
during the fall if you will be seeking a job after graduation.
Interview Pitfalls
As the saying goes - you never get a second chance to make a
first impression. Here are some of the reasons job seekers fail
to receive a job offer:

Inability to express themselves clearly

Uncertainty about future goals and career plans

Poor personal appearance

Lack of interest in job and organization (failing to ask
questions)
Choosing a Major or Career
Some students are undecided about which major to choose,
and aren’t sure how to figure it out. Others may know what
they want to major in, but don’t know what type of career it
can lead to. Still others have always wanted a specific career,
but now discover that they don’t have the aptitude to pursue
that direction. The Office of Career Development can help
you to identify information about yourself and information
about different careers so you can choose the major and
career path that you are naturally suited for.
Resume Writing
A well-designed and written resume is the first step to
landing the summer job, internship or full-time job after
graduation that you’re hoping for. Workshops and individual
assistance are available to develop a resume that best
38

Too interested in salary and vacation schedule

Lack of courtesy, maturity or tact

Indecisive and uninformed about the organization

Sloppy application form or resume

Lack of confidence or overly confident

Evasiveness
Involvement With Boosters
A “representative of athletics interest”, commonly
referred to as an athletic booster, is a supporter of
American International College’s athletic programs.
Boosters are not permitted to do anything for prospective
or enrolled student-athletes without first receiving
authorization from the Athletics Department
Administration. Certain types of involvement may
jeopardize the eligibility of the student-athletes involved.
It is permissible to invite a student-athlete to his/her
home for a home-cooked meal if it is a special occasion
(i.e., birthday, Thanksgiving). However, the booster may
not transport student-athletes. Boosters may also invite a
team for dinner or to meet with a group of alumni in a
city where the team is competing. Boosters are permitted
to employ enrolled student-athletes during the summer
and/or official vacation periods during the academic
year. All arrangements for such employment must be
made through the Compliance Office.
Extra Benefits
An extra benefit is any special arrangement by an
institutional employee or a representative of the institution's
athletics interests to provide a student-athlete or the studentathlete's relative or friend a benefit not expressly authorized
by NCAA legislation. Receipt of a benefit by student-athletes
or their relatives or friends is not a violation of NCAA
legislation if it is demonstrated that the same benefit is
generally available to the institution's students or their
relatives or friends or to a particular segment of the student
body (e.g., foreign students, minority students) determined on
a basis unrelated to athletics ability. [16.02.3]
Benefits, Gifts and Services
A student-athlete may not receive a special discount, payment
arrangement or credit on a purchase (e.g., airline tickets,
clothing) or a service (e.g., laundry, dry cleaning) from an
institutional employee or a representative of its athletics
interests.
A student-athlete may not accept athletics equipment,
supplies or clothing (e.g., tennis racquets, golf clubs, balls,
shirts) from a manufacturer or commercial enterprise.
A student-athlete may not accept “rides” from any coach,
assistant coach, trainer, or other employee of American
International College. The only exception is to and from
practice and competition.
39
XIV. Athletic Training Department
The Athletic Training Department works in a cooperative
effort with the College’s Student Health Services Office in
providing medical attention for students during the school
year. The Athletic Training Department assists with the
medical needs of the student-athletes during their
competitive season off-season, and non-traditional seasons.
Certified Athletic Trainers will provide student-athletes with
athletic injury related health care needs and direct them to
the Heath Services Office and/or a College Team Physician
when necessary.
b) Rehabilitation sessions will be daily from 10:30am
to 1:30pm, except during school vacations/holidays.
c) Athletes will be required to sign up for
appointments on a clipboard near the door to the
athletic training room. These appointments will be
made at 15-minute intervals and 30-minute intervals
will be blocked for new injury evaluations.
d) Blocks will be posted in the athletic training room
weekly with the name of the AT scheduled for those
hours. These schedules are made monthly, but allow
for staff scheduling changes.
e) Split coverage and cross coverage will now take
place at times. Most in-season sports will see no
difference in coverage personnel. There will be
times during non-traditional seasons, treatment
times, rehabilitation and in-season practices when a
different AT may cover a practice or competition.
Coaches and athletes will still have the same AT as
a Head Athletic Trainer for that team as well as for
travel responsibilities.
f) When there are two AT’s present without need,
there will no longer be double AT coverage. Our
staff will communicate double coverage times and
adjust staffing. This will help the staff to spend their
time caring for our athletes.
NCAA rules state that the Department of Athletics is
responsible for medical services administered to studentathletes who are injured in a College sanctioned athletic
practice or game. The term “athletic injury” applies only to
those ailments that are caused by the participation in a
supervised practice or game. The Athletic Department cannot
be held responsible for injuries that take place during
intramural participation, non-College sanctioned practices, or
recreational activity. The Athletic Department cannot be held
responsible for medical care of non-athletic related illness
and/or surgery (i.e. appendectomy or tonsillectomy).
Participation in athletics does not directly cause these
conditions; therefore, the NCAA regulations state that the
College cannot be held responsible for their remediation.
It should be understood by the athlete that intercollegiate
athletics produce a high risk for injury. The athlete is
responsible to take all measures necessary to prevent and
minimize the risk of such injuries.
2)
A sign-in log will be available at the front door of
the athletic training room. Each athlete is required
to sign-in for each visit/treatment session.
b) Student-athletes will still be required to sign the
traditional sign-in log that is located at the front
door of the athletic training room.
c) Written communication will improve due to more
structure. Coaches will be able to access their signin roster sheet from our staff and be able to check
on their athlete’s treatments, time dedicated to
rehabilitation and compliance. Team Athletic
Trainers will be able to track any treatments done in
their absence and check on progress of athletes
quickly and efficiently.
General Athletic Training Room Hours
Monday- Friday
 10:30 am- scheduled games and practices
(No later than 9:00 p.m.)
Saturday
 2 hours prior to any scheduled games or practice
Sunday
 Only open for scheduled games or practices
Athletic Training Room hours will vary during College
breaks. These changes will be posted on the door to the
Athletic Training Room. Holiday and Weekend hours are by
appointment and team coverage only; walk-in evaluation,
treatment and rehabilitation requests will not be
accommodated.

Coverage Policy

a)
40
We will set strict limits with treatment times and we
will stick to them. Walk-ins will not be allowed
unless it is an acute injury.
Communication
a)
Benefits for Athletes


In-season student-athletes will get better care without
interruption.
In-season student-athletes will no longer have long
waits while walk-ins are being cared for
Walk-in student-athletes will get better care and
attention
Walk-in student-athletes will no longer have long
waits for care because they will have appointments
and one-on-one attention




Better communication between staff members will
lead to better quality of care
Better communication for coaches regarding studentathletes’ compliance
Cross coverage of teams creates increase in quality
of care
Staff AT’s will still make their own schedules in
regards to pre and post-surgical rehabilitations, team
treatment sessions and pre and post-practice
treatment and rehabilitation sessions.
Athletic Training Room Staff
Leanne Gallagher – Head Athletic Trainer (Interim)
Jason Laferriere – Assistant Athletic Trainer
TBD- Assistant Athletic Trainer
Phone Number (413) 205-3541
Health Insurance
Every American International College student is required to
carry primary health insurance. If the student is not covered
by primary health insurance, the student is required to obtain
American International College student health insurance
through the Health Services Office. American International
College student health insurance does not cover injuries
sustained during intercollegiate athletic participation. The
College offers a secondary insurance policy to intercollegiate
athletes. This athletic accident insurance will cover any acute
injury that occurs during a College sanctioned athletic
practice/game. All claims must be submitted to the athlete’s
primary insurance first. Any claims not submitted to the
primary first will be denied by the secondary. This athletic
insurance is secondary to the student athlete’s personal
insurance (FORM A). In the event that the student athlete
has no primary insurance, the athletic insurance will become
the primary insurance. There is $100 deductible for each
injury claim (subject to be higher if provider is out of
insurance network). Please be aware that the student-athlete
is responsible for any balances incurred for medical care.
The college purchases the secondary athletic accident
insurance as a courtesy to the student-athletes. The NCAA
does not require 100% coverage for all medical bills. Our
secondary athletic accident insurance policy will cover
injuries sustained during intercollegiate athletic participation
at American International College. It will not cover any
other injuries (i.e. intramurals, recreational, etc).
Cardiovascular/respiratory conditions are considered preexistent, therefore, they will not be covered under our
secondary athletic accident insurance policy.
41
Insurance Claim Procedure
1. File claim form with the athletic trainer. If emergency, go
to ER and make sure the athletic trainer is aware of the injury
so that he/she can file the claim form for you. File an injury
claim with your primary insurance company first. Claims
must be filed within 30 days after the injury or our insurance
company will deny the claim.
2. Turn any initial medical bills into your primary insurance
company. If any amount is denied, request a EOB
(explanation of benefits) letter from your primary insurance
company. Give the EOB to the head athletic trainer so that
he/she can send the EOB to the secondary insurance
company.
3. Be sure to give all outstanding bills to the head athletic
trainer, or the bills cannot be processed in an efficient
manner. Address to send all bills:
AIC Head Athletic Trainer
1000 State Street – Box 4B
Springfield, MA 01109
Having Secondary Athletic Accident Insurance is no
guarantee of coverage. Please be aware that our insurance
carrier has the ability to deny coverage for certain injuries or
conditions that they deem pre-existing or congenital in
nature. Overuse injuries (i.e. stress fractures, tendonitis,
and/or bursitis) may not be covered. A Certified Athletic
Trainer will make every effort to make the athlete aware of a
situation in which a physician evaluation may not be
covered.
If the student-athletes primary insurance requires a referral, it
is his/her responsibility to contact the primary care physician
for proper referral. The athlete should contact his/her
parent/guardian for referral information. The secondary
athletic insurance policy will refuse coverage if the primary
insurance referral regulations are not followed.
It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to make his/her
parents/guardians aware of any injuries that have occurred. It
is also his/her responsibility to communicate with the
Athletic Training staff regarding his/her own condition, or
changes in the condition. The athlete is responsible for
communication regarding his/her injury, as well as for being
compliant with treatment and rehabilitation sessions.
NCAA Catastrophic Injury Insurance Policy
The Catastrophic Injury Insurance Program sponsored by the
NCAA is a supplemental insurance program that covers the
student-athlete who is catastrophically injured while
participating in a covered intercollegiate athletic activity. The
policy has a $75,000 deductible and provides coverage in
excess of any other valid and collectible insurance.
Medical Forms
All forms should be completed fully and legibly. Missing or
incomplete forms will delay the participation of the student
athlete in their chosen sport. Also, be aware that any
student-athlete without completed medical forms will not be
covered by our insurance policy.
FORM A - INSURANCE FORM
Must be completed by all athletes. This allows the Athletic
Training Department access to critical primary insurance
information to expedite the process of medical care when
necessary.
FORM B - PHYSICAL FORM
Must be completed by physician for all freshmen and juniors,
transfer students, new athletes and athletes who have not
been on a team for one year or more must have a physical
filled out and signed by a physician during their first and
third year of participation. This form allows the Athletic
Training Department access to a medical evaluation
performed by a physician. No athlete will be able to
participate without clearance from a physician. This form
should be brought to the athlete’s personal physician prior to
the athletic physical examination, and then returned to the
Athletic Training Department.
FORM C - HEALTH HISTORY FORM
Must be completed by all athletes. This allows the Athletic
Training Department access to yearly updates on
injuries/illnesses and conditions that the student-athlete may
have sustained.
FORM D - RELEASE/ASSUMPTION OF RISK
PERMISSION FOR MEDICAL TREATMENT FORM
The release must be signed by all student-athletes and
parents (if the athlete is under 18). Parent must sign
verification after reviewing letter. Acceptance of Risk form
must be signed by all athletes and parents (if under the age of
18). The Release form allows that Athletic Training
Department and Team Physicians access to the studentathletes medical files being kept by physicians or allied
health care facilities he/she was previously treated by. The
Assumption of Risk form is simply a reminder to the studentathlete that intercollegiate athletics are high risk activities
and that injuries can and do happen. This is not a waiver.
American International College Department of Athletics
fully accepts all responsibility to care for and provide
secondary athletic accident insurance for all intercollegiate
athletic injuries.
FORM E - SUPPLEMENTAL ATHLETE
QUESTIONNAIRE
This form is required of female and male athletes. This
questionnaire is confidential and read by Certified Athletic
Trainers only. All forms showing athletes “at risk” of
disordered eating patterns, and/or menstrual insufficiency
will be reviewed by a college counselor. All student athletes
42
believed to be moderate to high risk will be contacted by a
member of the Athletic Training Staff or the Counseling
Center and will be asked to participate in a meeting to
discuss eating patterns. A large part of the purpose this form
is to combat the “Female Athlete Triad”, a combination and
relationship of Eating Disorders, Amenorrhea (lack of
menstruation, and Osteoporosis (bone density loss). This
condition is common in young female athletes and can lead
to a number of debilitating conditions. This is a screening
process offered in conjunction with American International
College’s Eating Disorder Prevention Team. This form is
also intended to aid male intercollegiate athletes in issues
related to nutrition, ergogenic aids, weight loss and weight
gain, as well as disordered eating patterns.
If forms are not returned and fully completed, the Athletic
Training Department reserves the right to remove any
athlete from participation until the medical information is
complete.
Athletic Training Room
The Athletic Training Room is located at the rear of the
Butova Gymnasium. Certified Athletic Trainers work under
the direction of Team Physicians and provide for the
prevention, recognition, assessment, treatment, and
rehabilitation of athletic injuries for all student-athletes.
Athletic Training Room Rules and Regulations are
formulated to serve all athletes in the best possible manner
and to allow the student-athlete to receive the best care
possible. We encourage you to communicate and ask
questions so that you are clear on the important role that the
athletic training staff has in your athletic career at American
International College. Please follow the rules and regulations
set by the staff.
ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM RULES
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No food, candy, beverages, or gum allowed.
No smokeless tobacco allowed.
No profanity.
No shoes on the tables.
No cleats.
Bags and equipment should be left in the hallway or
locker room.
No horseplay.
No loitering.
Please show respect for your athletic trainers.
No taping without treatment and/or rehabilitation.
Take designated tape ends only.
You are released from treatment when told by an AT.
Please arrive on time for appointments.
Please be showered and dry.
ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM
PROCEDURES
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Immediately report all injuries sustained during
intercollegiate activity. A thorough evaluation of the
injury should be done as soon as possible. Except in the
event of emergency, injury evaluations and
rehabilitation programs will be conducted in accordance
with the posted schedule provided by the Athletic
Training Department.
All injured student-athletes should report and sign-in for
all treatment and rehabilitation sessions. The studentathlete is responsible for compliance with treatment
plan. Failure to sign in will be recorded as an absence
from the required treatment.
Throughout the season, the Athletic Training Staff
maintains
medical
records
including
injury
report/assessment and progress notes. This information
is documented and communicated to the coaches by the
staff. Activity restriction and recommendations for
return to full activity are emphasized. At no time should
the athlete release himself/herself from treatment or to
return to full activity. The Certified Athletic Trainer
provides these decisions.
Head Coaches will be informed of injuries and the
condition of the athlete when they should be made
aware. The Head Coach will also be made aware of noncompliance with treatment or rehabilitation sessions, as
well as inappropriate behavior.
Athletes will be taped or wrapped when deemed
necessary by the Athletic Training Staff. If they are not
compliant with treatment/rehabilitation sessions, they
may
risk
not
being
taped/wrapped.
The
treatment/rehabilitation will help to restore the athlete to
full activity, the taping/wrapping is only prophylactic in
nature, and may cause weaknesses to continue.
Injured athletes are required to be at all practices
and competitions unless released by the Head Coach.
All equipment/braces borrowed by the studentathletes must be returned by the end of the sports
season, or the student-athlete will be billed for the
item.
Emergency Treatment
When the Athletic Training Room is closed and a studentathlete is in need of medical treatment, page or call the Head
Athletic Trainer or the teams assigned Certified Athletic
Trainer. If you are unable to reach a Certified Athletic
Trainer, report to the Athletic Training Room as soon as it is
open. If the injury is severe or life threatening, contact
Security at (413) 205-3333 and request assistance and an
ambulance. The student-athlete should then be transported
directly to the Hospital. Please leave a message in the
Athletic Training Room as soon as possible reporting the
accident/injury and the athlete’s condition. The Athletic
Training Room phone is (413) 205-3341.
43
Hospitalization or Surgery
In the event of an emergency hospitalization or surgery, a
Certified Athletic Trainer or Emergency Department
Physician will contact the student-athlete’s parents and
apprise them of the situation. In the event of elective
orthopedic surgery, the Athletic Training Staff and Team
Physicians are available to speak with parents at any time.
Medical Referral Policy
All medical referrals must be made in conjunction with the
Head Athletic Trainer.
All referrals to physicians outside of the college’s Team
Physician’s office need to be coordinated and approved in
advance by the Head Athletic Trainer. Without prior
approval for referral to a physician not related to American
International College, the secondary athletic accident
insurance will not cover the costs of any treatment.
The college will cover any costs resulting from a second
opinion. College affiliated orthopedic physicians are
available, and visits can be scheduled through the athletic
training room. Second opinion visits to physicians outside of
the college’s network are covered if approved in advance by
the Head Athletic Trainer. Referrals to physicians, other
than our elected team physicians, will be made by our team
physicians when deemed necessary. These evaluations will
be covered by the secondary athletic accident insurance
policy. We understand the importance of an athlete feeling
comfortable when being cared for by a health care specialist.
If the student-athlete and/or his/her parents/guardians prefer
to seek other medical care of their choice, these guidelines
must be followed:
1) No expenses for medical care will be paid by the
secondary insurance policy unless previously approved by
the Head Athletic Trainer.
2) The student-athlete should provide the Head
Athletic Trainer with an estimate of costs of surgical
procedures. This ensured the Athletic Training Department
that the medical care is not exorbitant. This information
should be accompanied by a letter of request that should
explain why the student-athlete prefers to be treated by a
physician not affiliated with American International
College.
3) In emergency situations, the cost may be approved
at the discretion of Head Athletic Trainer.
4) Only expenses occurring as a result of athletic
injury/illness will be paid by the college’s secondary
insurance policy.
5) The Certified Athletic Trainers will not allow the
student-athlete to return to participation unless the
following conditions have been met:
6) The Head Athletic Trainer has received a detailed
written report from the attending health care provider.
7) The student-athlete has passed a pre-participation
examination.
8) The student-athlete has demonstrated full skills and
other physical capabilities necessary for full participation
in that particular sport as approved by the Athletic
Training Staff.
Illnesses
Illnesses should be reported to the Health Services Office
immediately. In many situations the sooner the treatment is
rendered, the more quickly the illness is resolved. Please
report illnesses treated by Health Services to the Certified
Athletic Trainer responsible for your team, and to the Head
Coach.
Injury Prevention Measures
There are several things that the student-athlete can do to prevent
needless injuries from happening:
1)
Remove all dentures, jewelry (tongue rings) during
practices and games.
2)
Wash all cuts and scrapes thoroughly with soap
and water. Keep them covered during future
practices and games.
3)
Use ice and elevation for minor aches and pains.
4)
Do not use heating pad or sun lamp for minor
aches and pains.
5)
Do not use any medication or preparations for
decreasing symptoms associated with injury/illness
unless prescribed by a physician or suggested by a
Certified Athletic Trainer.
6)
Remove all foreign substances from your mouth
during practices/games.
7)
Do not take prescription medication that has been
prescribed to other individuals.
8)
Do not take any medication prior to participation.
This medication tends to mask the symptoms of a
worsening injury, and may make an acute injury
worsen quickly.
9)
Do not take supplements unless approved by the
Athletic Training Staff. Legal drugs are often
banned by the NCAA.
10)
Do not alter any equipment fitted for participation
by the Athletic Training Staff. If equipment is ill
fitting it can lead to severe injury. If your
equipment does not fit properly, alert a Certified
Athletic Trainer immediately. Permanently altering
athletic equipment releases the equipment
company from liability if you are injured. Do not
alter equipment!
11)
Emergency Medical Treatment – do not move the
athlete. Gain access to a Certified Athletic Trainer
or Public Safety Officer. Call (413) 205-3333 for
access to an ambulance.
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Tobacco Ban
Under NCAA regulations, all tobacco use is prohibited
during practice and competition for coaches, game officials
and players. If a player is caught chewing tobacco, that
player shall be disqualified for the remainder of that practice
or competition.
Use of Banned Substances
Drug Testing
Student-athletes should not assume that the list of banned
substances is limited to “street” or illegal drugs. Some of the
banned substances can be found in prescription or over-thecounter medications such as cold remedies. Therefore, before
taking any medication, student-athletes are advised to consult
with members of the sports medicine staff.
Strict penalties have been established for the first and
subsequent violations of the NCAA banned substance rule.
In addition, student-athletes who refuse to participate in
mandatory drug testing, or who attempt to cause an incorrect
result, will also receive a penalty.
The NCAA conducts drug testing for all intercollegiate
sports on an annual basis. Student-athletes are tested
randomly during the academic year. The athletic department
(including the coaches) reserves the right to randomly test
any student-athlete throughout the year.
NCAA Banned Drugs
On the following page is the current listing of banned
substances. Please ask your athletic trainer about any
questions you might have regarding banned substances.
45
Insert List of Banned Substances here:
46
List of NCAA Banned Substances cont…
47
Drug-Testing Consent Forms
Each academic year, a student-athlete shall sign two forms
(NCAA & AIC) giving consent to be tested for the use of
any banned substances. Failure to complete and sign these
consent forms prior to practice or competition shall result in
the student-athlete’s ineligibility for participation in all
intercollegiate athletics. The statement reads as follows:
STATEMENT OF INFORMED CONSENT
“I certify that I have read the statement of American
International College’s Drug Testing and Education
Program, fully understand the Program, and agree freely,
voluntarily and knowingly, to participate in the Program
during my entire intercollegiate athletic career at American
International College. Specifically, I agree to submit a urine
sample for drug testing when I am requested to do so. I agree
to abide by the sanctions imposed, and to cooperate in the
drug education, counseling and rehabilitation programs
required. I authorize the notification of my parent(s), legal
guardian or spouse, of any positive test results. I further
authorize the confidential release of test results to other
individuals, including college officials, as provided in the
Drug Testing and Education Program. In consideration of
participating in this program, I release American
International College and it’s employees from any and all
liability and waive any and all claims against the college and
it’s employees arising out of the program, unless such claim
is based on negligent or wrongful conduct of the college.”
the designated testing site at the specified time will result in
a positive drug test.
Procedure for Positive Test Results
A test is considered positive if any of the banned
substances (listed on pgs 46 & 47) are present in the sample.
The lab will notify the Director of Athletics of a positive test
result. The Athletic Director will notify the SA that he/she
must meet to discuss the results of the test. The SA will be
provided with an opportunity to explain the results, to
present evidence of the inaccuracy of the results, and to
request and review specific information concerning the tests
performed on his/her urine sample (i.e., dates of tests, name
of laboratory performing tests and tests used). The Director
of Athletics may decide, based on the explanation provided
by the SA, or the evidence, to order a second test of the SA’s
urine sample by gas chromatography or by gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry.
Individual Counseling, Rehabilitation
and Discipline
First Positive Drug Test:
i. The Director of Athletics will notify the studentathlete. The SA will be urged to contact his/her
parent(s), legal guardian, or spouse. A SA who
receives a first positive drug test during the
academic year will be required to complete an
individual education and counseling program
developed by the Alcohol and Other Drug
Counselor at SHU. The student-athlete will be
responsible for scheduling these appointments.
Any unexcused absence from a scheduled
counseling session will automatically result in a
20 percent suspension from the team’s regular
season contests.
ii. The SA will be retested two to four weeks after
the initial test. If the SA’s test results are again
positive, but the quantity has decreased, the SA
will be retested at the end of an additional twoweek period. If the test results are again positive,
the SA will be considered as a second positive.
PURPOSES OF THE
DRUG-TESTING PROGRAM
The purposes of this program are:
1. To educate SA’s about the risks inherent in the use
and/or abuse of drugs, particularly with regard to
participation in intercollegiate athletics.
2. To discourage the use and/or abuse of drugs by
SA’s.
3. To identify drug users and/or abusers so that
counseling and rehabilitation assistance may be
provided directly to the SA.
4. To restrict SA’s from participation if they are
unable to make positive choices concerning their
continued use and/or abuse of drugs. This will
protect the integrity of AIC’s intercollegiate
athletics program as well as protect the SA and
other participants from injury.
iii. THE SA’s REFUSAL TO TAKE THE
ACTIONS REQUIRED ABOVE WILL BE
TREATED AS A SECOND POSITIVE TEST.
Second Positive Test:
PROTOCOL FOR DRUG TESTING
Student-athletes will be notified by their coach if they have
been selected for drug-testing. Once the student-athlete has
been selected, he or she will be directed to report to a
designated testing site at a specific time. Failure to report to
48
i.
The Director of Athletics will notify the studentathlete and head coach. The student athlete is
responsible for notifying their parent(s) or
guardian. There will be a meeting between the
student-athlete, athletics director, and head
athletic trainer.
ii.
iii.
iv.
v.
There will be a minimum 20% suspension of
team’s regular season contests. All fractions will
be rounded UP.
Drug counseling will continue. Missed counseling
sessions (unexcused) will result in a one-year
suspension from all athletic participation.
The SA who is treated as a second positive will
be retested as the end of the counseling and
rehabilitation program or at the end of the
suspension period, whichever occurs first. If the
test results are again positive, the SA will be
treated as a third positive.
THE SA’S REFUSAL TO TAKE THE
ACTIONS REQUIRED ABOVE WILL BE
TREATED AS A THIRD POSITIVE.
Third Positive Test:
i.
ii.
49
A SA who receives a third positive drug test
during the academic year will be considered as
having a serious problem which requires that the
SA be barred from participation in intercollegiate
athletics for a minimum of one calendar year. The
SA’s scholarship will be discontinued at the end
of the current term and may not be renewed in
subsequent years even if the SA returns to
participate in intercollegiate athletics. Any
reinstatement to participation in intercollegiate
athletics will be made only after certification
from a physician or licensed mental health
professional. Certification must document proof
that the SA has satisfactorily completed a drug
counseling and/or rehabilitation program.
The Director of Athletics will notify the SA’s
head coach of the third positive drug test results.
iii.
In addition, the SA will be required to participate
in a conference call among the SA, the SA’s
parent/guardian, or spouse and the Drug Program
Administrator.
Prior to being barred from participation in
intercollegiate athletics and the discontinuance of
financial aid, the SA will be give an opportunity
to meet with the Athletic Director to be heard on
the matter of imposition of the sanction upon
him/her. After the meeting, the Athletic Director
may determine, based upon extraordinary
circumstances directly related to the SA’s positive
test results, that the third positive sanction should
not be imposed and that the SA should be treated
as a second positive. If the Athletic Director
should so determine, the Athletic Director must
inform the college President of that determination
and of the reasons for that determination. That
decision must then be approved by the college
President prior to notifying the SA. Within five
(5) days after the meeting, the Athletic Director
will provide the SA with written notice indicating
whether the sanction for a third positive drug test
will be imposed.
Athletes Who Fail To Show Up For A
Scheduled Drug Test:
A Missed Drug Test = A Positive Drug Test!
XV. Strength and Conditioning Program
The Butova/ Metcalf Gymnasium
Intercollegiate athletes participating in strength and
conditioning programs will be sharing Butova/Metcalf
Gymnasium with other students, faculty and staff. The purpose
of these facilities is to provide all College personnel (students,
student-athletes, faculty and staff) with an opportunity for
strength training. The athletes need to keep in mind that these
facilities will be shared by the entire College community and
will be available for everyone to use in a supervised, scheduled,
structured format within the new facility.
Weight Training
The fitness center at American International College provides
student-athletes with an opportunity for pre-season, in-season,
and off-season strength training. The facility is located in the
basement of the Butova Gymnasium.

Rules and Conditions Governing the Use
of Facilities
The following general rules and conditions govern the use
of the facilities throughout the Butova/Metcalf
Gymnasium. Specific rules concerning particular activities
will be posted separately.
1. All users, including student-athletes, must have a
current American International College ID card; ID
cards cannot be loaned to anybody. If the ID is
misused or not presented properly upon request,
privileges may be suspended.
2.
Individuals using the facilities participate in programs
at their own risk. Persons with medical problems
should consult a doctor before engaging in strenuous
activity.
3.
The College is not responsible for the loss or theft of
valuables. Those using the facility are advised to
leave valuables at home when possible. Valuables
should never be left unattended; i.e., secure valuables
in lockers while showering. Report suspicious
behavior to the Center staff on duty.
4.
Pets are not allowed in the facility.
5.
No one under eighteen years of age (except registered
American International College students) is allowed
in the Center unless otherwise accompanied by a
parent.
6.
No one under the influence of drugs or alcohol is
allowed in the Center. Consumption or possession of
alcoholic beverages inside the facility is prohibited.
7.
Proper athletic attire is required at all times. Shirts
are required at all times. No black-soled shoes are
allowed in the exercise areas in the Center.
8.
The Center users must change clothes in the locker
rooms and not in the lobby area, rest rooms or any of
the other activity areas.
9.
Do not kick or hit balls off the walls in any part of the
building.
Strength and Conditioning Programs
Year-round strength and conditioning programs for each sport
are devised by mutual consultation of the strength and
conditioning coach with the head coach. Instruction on safe and
proper lifting techniques on the use of all equipment is given to
all athletes at the beginning of each year. Athletes are expected
to adhere to the appropriate program designed specifically for
him or her. Should there be a problem or concern regarding
your strength and conditioning program, please feel free to
discuss it with the head strength & conditioning coach and/or
your head coach.
Rules and Regulations
Because of the nature of the Weight Training Center, a code of
behavior has been developed to ensure that all participants will
be able to make maximum use of the new facilities.
Participants will be made aware of the rules for the use of those
facilities. As equipment and/or procedures change, rules will be
updated accordingly. Rules are posted on the entrance doors.
The most significant ones are:
Personal Habits
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It's a pleasure to work out in a clean facility. Upon entering
the building, please check your shoes for mud and dirt.
Proper workout clothes should include a T-shirt,
shorts, sweats, socks, and clean tied shoes. Street
clothes, hats, and cleated shoes are not permitted.
Clear and sufficient space is crucial when working
out. Do not bring extra clothing, bags, books, or
equipment of any type into the facility.
A sound system is provided; therefore, headphones
or "walkman" will not be permitted in the facility.
Slippery and wet equipment is hazardous to you and
your fellow student-athletes. Please keep your body
reasonably dry during your workout sessions.
10. The Department staff and the student monitors are
responsible for the activities in the facility. Users should
obey all instructions.
11. If equipment malfunctions, do not attempt to fix it. Call a
monitor or a staff member for assistance.
12. The Athletic Department reserves the right to close the
facility for any reason.
13. Help keep the Health and Recreation Center clean. Be
sure to discard all papers, ball cans, gum and other debris
in trash receptacles.
14. Materials may be posted on appropriate bulletin boards in
the facility with the permission of administrative staff
only.
15. The Department has the right to suspend or revoke any or
all privileges as a result of misconduct or abuse.
16. Safety precautions must be adhered to at all times. If you
work out during open hours without the supervision of a
coach, bring at least one other person with you as a
workout partner.
17. Return plates and bars to the proper area. Do not leave
plates or bars on the machine or on the floor. Take
precaution when unloading weight.
18. A spotter is required for any standing exercise involving
heavy weight.
XVI. Media Relations and Communication
The purpose of the American International College Athletics
Communications Office is to serve as a liaison between the
institution's student-athletes and teams, and the media. It is
through these means that achievements by student-athletes on
and off the field are reported to an athlete's hometown media,
the local media outlets, and national media. Athletic results
are the most common form of "free" publicity that the
institution has at its access. The College is proud of its
student-athletes and constantly strives to make sure that their
academic and athletic achievements receive proper media
recognition.
Student-Athlete Responsibilities
Student-athletes have a responsibility to the institution, the
coaching staff, and their teammates to cooperate with media
representatives whenever possible. Cooperation with the
media builds a solid foundation for good relationships and
ensures positive coverage by newspapers, radio and
television stations, of American International College
Athletics. Student-athletes should act in a professional
manner when speaking with the media, always striving to
display confidence and a positive attitude on the athlete's
part as well as courtesy to the individual media
representative.
Interviews
Interviews conducted between the media and American
International College student-athletes can be a rewarding
experience for both parties. As a student-athlete's career
progresses, solid relationships can form between the
student-athlete and the media representative that can be
beneficial to both the student-athlete and the athletic
program. Aside from interviews held after contests, the
Sports Information Office should arrange interviews
conducted outside the playing arena. If it's a long distance
telephone interview, the Sports Information Office will
acquire a telephone number at which the student-athlete can
contact the media representative, collect, at a predetermined time that's agreeable to both parties and does not
conflict with the student's class schedule. The Sports
Information Office does not give out home telephone
numbers of student-athletes to the media.
Do's and Don'ts
Listed below are a few simple rules to follow in an
interview situation:
 Be prompt and available for all interviews.
 If you don't understand a question, ask for
clarification before you attempt an answer. Avoid
any "off-the-record" comments: They don't always
remain "off-the-record".
 If you're not familiar with a particular area or topic,
just say you "are not familiar with the topic to give
a reasonable answer".
 Never speak unfavorably of any teammate,
opposing player or team, American International
College coach or American International College
administrator or the College.
 At all times, you must remember: "Don't say it if
you don't want to see it in print". Maintaining a
positive image is the most important part of an
interview.
51
Media Relations and Communications, cont.
Conclusion
All student-athletes must remember, an interview
conducted with poise and courtesy will enhance the
image of the individual, his or her team, as well as the
Department of Athletics and the College. Any
student-athlete who wishes to discuss any topic of
concern regarding publicity or dealing with the media
is welcome to contact the Sports Information Office at
(413) 205-3572.
The American International College Athletic Equipment
Room, assists with the equipment needs of student
athletes and recreational athletes on a daily basis. The
Equipment Room, located on the bottom floor of the
Butova/Metcalf Gymnasium, stores and maintains
equipment and uniforms for each American
International College Athletic Team as well as
Intramurals. Normal hours of operation will be Monday
through Friday from 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM seasonally,
however, if you need to access the Equipment Room at
other times you must set an appointment with the
Equipment Manager. In order to do this, you can call
(413) 205-3562.
XVII. Athletic Equipment Policy
The American International College Athletic Equipment
Room considers proper athletic equipment to be an
integral part of the well being of our student athletes.
Such a commitment to excellence in athletics implies
that the student athletes at American International
College will be outfitted in only the best and safest
athletic equipment, which gives our athletes the
opportunity to compete at the highest-level competition
in intercollegiate athletics.
Truth and integrity are perhaps the most important part
of our mission. The American International College
Athletic Equipment Room believes that the
administrators, coaches, and the student athlete, in
coalition with all members of the College community,
must share a total commitment abiding to the rules and
regulations of the NCAA, Athletic Equipment
Managers Association (AEMA), the NE-10 Conference,
and the institution of which we represent. Truth and
integrity are important in our mission, because we are
fiscally responsible and accountable for all athletic
equipment purchases by American International
College, and the proper and safe fitting of our studentathletes.
Distribution of Equipment/Fitting Procedures:
The Equipment Manager, a team manager, or the head
coach of a particular team must distribute all
equipment. All fitting must be checked and approved
by the Equipment Manager.
Equipment Room Rules:
-
No food or beverages are allowed in the Equipment
Room unless approved by the Equipment
Coordinator.
-
Respect must be shown towards Equipment Staff
as well as Student Managers.
-
No student athletes are permitted in the Equipment
Room except to be fitted.
-
Practice Laundry/ Game Laundry must be turned
in at the Equipment Room Window at designated
times.
-
No equipment or uniforms can be cut or
altered unless approved by the Equipment
Manager
General:
XVIII. Team Travel, Conduct and Appearance
Student-athletes are expected to know and observe the
rules and customs of their sport, both in practice and
competition. They should maintain cordial relations with
opponents, officials, spectators, and members of the
media. Also, student-athletes should wear only those
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articles of equipment issued by the College or approved
by their coach.
Team Travel
Unsportsmanlike Behavior
Sports teams should remember that they are representing
American International College whenever their team is on
the road for competition. All trips officially begin when
the team leaves campus and ends upon the team's return
to campus. Alcohol or other drug use is strictly forbidden
at any time.
Every student-athlete is expected to demonstrate
appropriate behavior according to the conference
code for sportsmanlike conduct. The following are
considered violations of this code:
Any arrest for unlawful conduct
1.
2.
Dress Code: There is no specific departmental code
for student-athletes on trips, but all student-athletes
should be made aware that they are representatives
of American International College and should
present a professional image in every way.
However, individual coaches often have specific
dress codes for their teams when traveling away
from campus.
Lodging: Charges for hotel rooms and tax are the
direct responsibility of the College. Incidental
expenses such as telephone, room service and pay
movies are to be paid by the individual studentathlete using them. Coaches will prohibit telephone
calls and pay movies from being charged to hotel
rooms.
3.
Remaining at Site: Student-athletes who wish to
remain at any away site of competition or to
another destination other than that scheduled for the
team must request approval from the head coach
and must have a written statement of approval from
their parent or guardian before leaving campus for
the competition, and may only be released to their
parents
4.
Property Damage and Theft: All student-athletes
during both home and away games will be
responsible for their behavior in regard to
property damage and theft. In addition, violators
will be subject to the College's disciplinary code.
When individuals cannot be identified for such
actions, the entire team will be held accountable.
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Physical and/or verbal abuse of officials,
coaches, opponents, or spectators;
Throwing or kicking of objects;
Taunting
Use of obscene or otherwise inappropriate
language or gestures;
Participating in any action that violates
the generally recognized ethical
standards of intercollegiate athletics, the
College, or the community
XIX. NEW NCAA LEGISLATION

NCAA Transgender Policy

Transgender Policy - Currently, the NCAA
allows transgender student-athletes to
compete, but does not keep statistics on the
number of transgender student-athletes who
are involved in NCAA competition. The
membership services staff recommends that
institutions use the gender classification of
the student-athletes, along with state
identification documents such as driver’s
licenses and voter registration.

Examples of activities not considered to be uses
of male practice players include, but are not
limited to, the following:
Male Practice Players

Definition of a Male Practice Player
A male practice player is defined as any male
engaged in activities with a women's varsity or
junior varsity athletics squad (including a male
student-athlete, manager or student-coach) held at
the direction of or supervised by a member of an
institution's coaching staff. Participation by a male
practice player includes a designated role for the
male during the female team's practice. The male
practice player's involvement is distinct from the
athletics participation of male student-athletes in
joint practice sessions with female student-athletes.





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Any activity or instruction involving sportsrelated information and having an athletics
purpose;
Field, floor or on-court activity (e.g.,
serving as a hitting partner, practicing
drills, serving as a "rabbit" and being the
scout team);
Setting up offensive or defensive
alignments;
Activities using equipment related to the
sport;
Required weight-training and conditioning
activities held at the direction of or
supervised by an institutional staff member;
Male and female cross country or
swimming student-athletes engaging in a
joint workout session and completing the
same workout; and
Male and female student-athletes practicing
simultaneously at the same site.
Eligibility of Male Practice Players


Examples of possible uses of male practice players
include, but are not limited to, the following:

Outside the declared playing season, skillrelated instruction activities;
On-court or on-field activities called by any
member or members of a team and
confined primarily to members of that team
that are considered as a requisite for
participation in that sport; and
Use of an institution's athletics facilities
when such activities are supervised by or
held at the direction of any member of an
institution's coaching staff.

Male practice players must be certified by the
institution’s compliance coordinator prior to
practicing with an intercollegiate team.
Male practice players must meet the same
academic standards as intercollegiate athletes
(i.e. freshman must be certified through the
NCAA Clearinghouse and returning students
must be in good academic standing and meeting
progress towards degree. Further, all male
practice players must be enrolled in a minimum
of 12 degree credits in order to practice with an
intercollegiate team.
Male practice players must be included on the
institution’s squad list
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