Athletic Handbook...

**The OFFICIAL Athletic Handbook may be picked up in the Athletic Office.  The Athletic Office handbook will always be accurate in case of of discrepancies.  Please use the website version for general information.

 ATHLETIC HANDBOOK FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES

ATHLETIC STATEMENT
This athletic booklet is designed to inform athletes and their parents or guardians of the rules, regulations and information that helped develop the rich tradition of competition at Lafayette Jefferson High School.

Participation in high school athletics is a privilege which carries with it varying degrees of honor, responsibility and sacrifice.  Since athletic competition on high school teams is a privilege and not a right, those who choose to participate will be expected to follow the Code of Conduct established by the administration and other specific coaches’ rules for their sport.  Athletes represent their school and student body.  Athletes are to conduct themselves in a manner that is acceptable to their family, Lafayette Jefferson High School and the community.

ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY
The goal of the Lafayette Jefferson Athletic Department is to provide the best opportunities for student-athletes to excel in teamwork, sportsmanship, self-discipline and moral character.  The purpose is to provide each participant with experiences that will be positive, memorable and that help the athlete develop the capacity for commitment to a cause, acceptance of responsibility and loyalty towards any chosen endeavor.

ATHLETE DEFINED
The Lafayette Jefferson athlete is defined as and includes all young men and women who represent a team that engages in interscholastic competition and further includes bat maids, mat maids, swim maids, cheerleaders, lifters, student managers, trainers and statisticians.

ATHLETIC PROGRAM PROFILE
Lafayette Jefferson High School supports twenty (21) sports offers 56 different teams to over 750 students in grades 9-12.  Student-athletes are coached by 72 men and women and participate in over 600 contests per year.  Lafayette Jefferson was a member of the North Central Conference from the1931-32 school year to the 2002-2003 school year.  Starting with the 2003-2004 school year Lafyette Jefferson became a member of the Hoosier Crossroads Conference (HCC).  Other members of the HCC are Avon, Brownsburg, Fishers, Hamilton Southeastern, Harrison, McCutcheon, Noblesville, Westfield, and Zionsville.  A Conference All Sports Champion plaque is awarded to the girls’ and the boys’ team that has accumulated the most points at the end of the year.

ELIGIBILITY

RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS
To participate in athletics at Lafayette Jefferson High School, a student must be properly enrolled and meet Lafayette School Corporation and Indiana High School Athletic Association participation requirements.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY AT LAFAYETTE JEFFERSON
Student-athletes must be passing five credits each nine weeks grading period (semester-ending grades take precedence) in order to continue to participate as a team member.  Coaches and sponsors can check progress of students by talking with teachers, issuing periodic grade checks and checking grade cards at the end of grading periods.  It is the policy of the athletic department to work closely with the academic progress of each participant.  Students with failing grades will attend practices and/or study table during periods of ineligibility (at coaches’ discretion).

PHYSICAL EXAMINATIONS
Every student-athlete is required by Lafayette Jefferson High School and the IHSAA to have a physical examination completed and on file with the athletic office before practicing in any sport.  Physical exams are the responsibility of the athlete and his/her parents.  The physical exam must be completed and dated after May 1st to be accepted for the following school year.

WHAT MUST BE DONE BEFORE YOUR FIRST PRACTICE
Before participating in a practice for any team, an athlete and his/her parent/guardian must have all forms required by Lafayette Jefferson High School and the Indiana High School Athletic Association completed, signed and on file in the Athletic Office:
                * physical examination form
                * one time participation fee
                * code of conduct form
                * emergency medical release form
                * if a transfer student--forms beginning the athletic transfer process
Transfer students new to Lafayette Jefferson can not compete in interscholastic contests until an athletic transfer is complete.

Codes of Conduct
Athletic Expectations; Code of Conduct

STATEMENT
The following Lafayette Jefferson athletic rules are in accordance with the Indiana High School Athletic Association constitution.

The conduct of participants in athletics at Lafayette Jefferson, in or out of school, year-round, shall be such as:  1) not to reflect discredit upon our school, and 2) not to create a disruptive influence on the discipline, good order, moral or educational environment in our school.  Any such violation of these principles shall be subject to disciplinary measures.

ENFORCEMENT of the Code of Conduct
The Athletic Director or his/her designee shall enforce all rules and regulations as described in the Code of Conduct (hereafter the Code) for athletes.  All rules regarding behavior and/or training as outlined in IHSAA regulations apply.  The Code will be reinforced by the coach of each sport during the year.  Parents/Guardians and athletes are required to sign the acknowledgment, consent, injury awareness and disclosure document stating that they understand the Code and the athlete is subject to disciplinary measure should he/she violate the Code.

Any alleged violation of the Code shall be reported first to the coach or his/her designee and then is to be followed by an investigation by any or all of the following people... athletic director, principal or his/her designee.  If a violation of the Code has been determined to have occurred, a meeting will take place between the Athletic Director or his/her designee and the athlete in question.

The Code is in force twelve (12) months a year, grades nine through twelve (9-12).

EXPECTED STANDARDS of CONDUCT for ATHLETES
Ø  The good of the team is first and foremost.  While individual needs are important, teamwork is an expectation.
Ø  No player(s) will ever employ illegal tactics to gain an undeserved advantage.  All players will devote themselves to being a true sportsman.
Ø  All athletes will care for all equipment as though it were their own personal property.  If equipment is destroyed through normal wear and tear during practice, the school will replace the item(s).  If equipment is lost or stolen the athlete(s), will fulfill his/her responsibility by paying for replacement of item(s).
Ø  All athletes will obey the specific training and practice rules of their team as given to them by the coaching staff.
Ø  Athletes should not engage in negative activities.  Drinking alcohol, taking controlled  drug substances, using tobacco products, using profanity and being disobedient are harmful to athletes and their team.  Maximum effort and performance cannot be attained by participation in these activities.
Ø  Athletes and support students of the team must pass five credits each grading period to be eligible to participate in athletics.  Team members should plan their time so that they devote energy to their studies to insure passing grades that represent their true abilities.
Ø  Athletes should be a positive influence in all they attempt to do.  They are to work for the betterment of Lafayette Jefferson and set a good example by doing what is right and good.
Ø  Officials deserve courteous respect.  The purpose of officials is to insure both teams a fair contest; they are not responsible for losing games or contests.
Ø  Athletes should appreciate the fact that coaches, teachers and school officials have the best interest of all athletes in mind as they purchase equipment, schedule contests and conduct the athletic program.

1. All Lafayette Jefferson athletes must comply with the standards of our athletic Code of Conduct and school rules or be subject to disciplinary action or dismissal from a team as determined by the rules, coaching staff, athletic director, and/or principal of Lafayette Jefferson High School.
2. Violations from middle school shall not be carried over to high school, but all high school violations shall be considered cumulative.

RULES of the CODE of CONDUCT
The guidelines set forth below are intended to clarify the consequences for specific behaviors. The guidelines are not intended to serve as a complete list. In the event a student engages in conduct not covered by the guidelines set forth below the student’s status will be reviewed by the school administration with input from the activity sponsor. The school administration shall determine the appropriate disciplinary measures to be taken on a case by case basis.

Rule 1.  Athletes (hereafter student staff, student athletic trainers, managers, and cheerleaders are included in the term ‘athletes’) shall not partake in any degree or be in possession of illegal drugs, alcoholic beverages and/or tobacco.

First Violation: 
1.   The use of illegal drugs, tobacco and/or alcohol is not in accordance with this Code of Conduct and will result in an automatic suspension of participation in athletic events and from the athletic squad or team in which the student is participating or the next sport they participate in for 30% of the contests for such team or squad.

2.   Practice for an athlete, who is under suspension, is at the discretion of the coach.

3.   The student must undergo formal Drug/Alcohol Assessment which may be provided by the school.  If it is determined that the student needs assistance in this area, the student will follow the appropriate recommendation of either intervention or education.  The parent/guardian will be responsible for all costs associated with services of the recommended program.  Further, the student will submit proof of enrollment in, regular participation in, and eventual completion of the recommended program.  For one year the student will submit to drug testing during any season they are participating in.  The athletic director or his/her designee will determine the number of times and scheduling of the drug testing.  The parent/guardian will be responsible for all costs associated with the drug testing.

Rule 2.  Reasonable proof of a misdemeanor, acts of delinquency and felonies*

1. Cases involving the above situations shall result in such incidents going before a Review Committee made up of the Athletic Director and three head coaches or assistant ADs.   The exact length of suspension shall be at the discretion of the Review Committee.

(*It is acknowledged that the formal use of the terms ”misdemeanor” and “felony” is largely inapplicable to the students at Jefferson High School due to their ages.  Notwithstanding the same, these terms are used in describing certain behaviors and should be understood not to be limited by the legal age or juvenile status of an offending student.)

Rule 3.  Bullying/Intimidation/"Hazing"(Addition) or any type of "initiation rite" will be considered a violation of the General Conduct rules and will be dealt with as a serious matter.  Coaches, the Athletic Director, and the administration will determine if an incident is considered hazing.  If so determined, these officials will consider it a serious disciplinary infraction of both the Athletic and Student Handbooks.

1.   Violation will result in an automatic suspension of participation in athletic events and from the athletic squad or team in which the student is participating or the next sport they participate in for 30% of the contests for such team or squad.
2.   Practice for an athlete, who is under suspension, is at the discretion of the coach.

Rule 4.  Students participating in athletics serve as representatives of Jefferson High School and the Lafayette community. Students are expected to act as role models to other students.  A student-athlete may be suspended from participation in events if such student-athlete exhibits personal behavior while in or outside the school that in the judgment of the coach reflects very poor judgment and is not consistent with the conduct expected of a Jefferson High School student-athlete.  For example,

1. Attendance at social events (parties, dances, etc.) is up to the athlete and his/her parent/guardian(s).  However, athletes are expected to leave social events immediately where there is illegal use of chemical substances and/or alcohol.  All athletes must understand that failure to leave such events could result in a violation of the Code of Conduct.

First Violation: 

1. Any athlete exhibiting personal behavior or poor judgment that is not exemplary will result in suspension of participation in athletic events and from the athletic squad or team in which the student is participating or the next sport they participate in for up to 50% of the contests for such team or squad.

Rule 5.  Any student who is in violation of school rules resulting in truancy, suspension, classroom disruption or other punishable acts will be disciplined by the already-established school rules.

Student-athletes who are suspended from school will receive a mandatory one contest suspension.  What the Administration believes to be habitual behavior will be dealt with on an individual basis by the Review Committee. The student may further be dealt with within the structure of each coach’s rules for their sport or the Code of Conduct.  If a student is suspended out-of-school or in school for any reason, he/she will be ineligible for all contests and practices during the term of their suspension. Any student that has had a first violation of the Code of Conduct is placed on probation for up to one (1) calendar year.

Rule 6.  The sponsor of each sport or group may set specific team rules that are not addressed in this document.  These rules and the penalties for breaking them will be given to the students in writing by the coach at the first meeting or practice of that season.  These written regulations must be approved and on file with the Administrator in charge of that group.   Violations of the “Rules of the Code of Conduct” would be within the purview of the Code of Conduct and would be addressed by the school administration or their designee.

PROBATION
Any student that has had a first violation of the Code of Conduct is placed on probation for up to one (1) calendar year.
Second Violation of the Code of Conduct:

1. Any student that commits a second violation of the Code of Conduct while on probation may be suspended from all activities for up to one (1) calendar year from the date of the second occurrence.

 Third Violation of the Code of Conduct:

1. Any student who commits a third violation of the Code of Conduct shall be excluded from any further participation in all activities for the remainder of his/her high school career. 

SELF-REPORT CLAUSE
It is the intent of Lafayette Jefferson to assist students with developing responsibility for their actions and to encourage honesty.  Therefore, except for a student who commits a felony, any student who voluntarily self reports a violation of the Code of Conduct within 48 hours of the infraction will be granted leniency. If the violation occurs over Thanksgiving, winter break, spring break, summer break, or other extended breaks the student still has 48 hours in which to reach a coach, the Athletic Director or school administrator.   Personal contact with one of these officials is strongly encouraged but email or voice mail will constitute initiation of the self-reporting process.   If a parent or student has acted “above and beyond” in self-reporting an incident, the time limit on self-reporting may be waived through the appeals process. The student who self-reports will serve a reduced penalty for the infraction. Self reporting will have the effect of reducing the penalty imposed by half, but as a minimum a student must miss at least one game/match. This self-report clause may only be used one time to automatically reduce a proposed penalty.

COMPASSION CLAUSE

1. Any student serving a one year suspension may restore his/her athletic eligibility by completing the Community Service Program established and monitored by the Athletic Director or his/her designee. 
2. Any student who receives a career suspension may restore his/her eligibility by appearing before the Appeals Board.

 
ATHLETIC SEASON DEFINED
The athletic season is defined as commencing with the first practice and ending with the elimination of the team and/or individual from the state tournament series.  Penalties for violations take effect immediately upon verification of any violation and will include games in succession, i.e. season schedule, tournaments and state series, in order of competition.

CARRY-OVER SUSPENSION
If a violation of the Code occurs in the last part of a sport and the violator cannot fulfill the terms of his/her violation in that sport the suspension does carry-over until the suspension is fulfilled.  This includes the athlete’s next sport or the same sport next year, i.e., if the suspension is for two football games with only one remaining, the athlete must also miss the first contest in the next sport the athlete participates in until the suspension has been served.  An athlete that completes a suspension in a sport will be required to complete the season in good standing or will have to serve the full suspension again in the next sport.

COMPLETING A SUSPENSION
When serving a temporary suspension, the athlete is expected to be present at ALL athletic contests and practices involving his/her team or squad.  The athlete is a member of the team and is expected to fulfill this responsibility.  If the athlete does not attend the contest, credit will not be given toward fulfilling the requirements of the suspension.  The coach’s discretion can excuse the athlete.  If a student is a dual sport athlete (two sports at the same time), he/she must serve the suspension in both sports.

The Athletic Director or his/her designee has the responsibility for monitoring and enforcing all athletic policies.
All discipline related to sports’ participants shall reflect the understanding of procedures and practices included in the policy for Students’ Rights and Responsibilities.  Procedures of disciplinary action are listed in the document—Appendix I DUE PROCESS FOR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES.

ATHLETIC CODE PARAMETERS AND PROTOCOL (All Additions)

• Suspensions are to begin immediately subsequent to the offense.
• In order for a suspension to be considered complete, an athlete must serve his/her entire suspension in their current sport.  If not, it then carries over to his/her next athletic season that they have participated in before. i.e., an athlete is a football player and has a first time violation and loses 50% of the football season or 5 games.  There are only 2 games left in the football season.  The remaining percentage would be served in the next sport in which he/she has already participated.  When determining the number of contests for a suspension, the number is always rounded up.  i.e., an athlete has a violation and loses 50% of the season.  There are 9 contests in their sport.  That equates to a 4.5 game suspension.  The athlete would have to sit out 5 contests.
• If an athlete is suspended from school, he/she will automatically be suspended from all practice and game participation for the period of the school suspension.
• Jamboree or scrimmages will not be considered a contest for suspension purposes.
• The decision to allow a suspended athlete (from an athletic code violation) to participate in a jamboree or scrimmage will be left up to each individual coach. 
• If an athlete participates in two sports during the same season (i.e. cheerleading and volleyball), the penalty will be assessed in each sport.  For example, a 50% penalty for such an athlete would suspend the athlete from 25% of the volleyball season as well as 25% of the cheerleading season.
• An athlete will not be able to serve his/her suspension in a sport they have never participated in or established themselves in prior to the suspension.  i.e. the athlete has participated in golf in the fall, basketball in the winter, and nothing in the spring. (Exceptions may be made to 9th graders who have not yet had the opportunity to establish themselves in a particular sport.)   During the basketball season the athlete violates the code for the second career offense.  The athlete receives a 50% suspension from contests.  There were 20 contests scheduled which includes the sectional.  There were five contests remaining including one sectional contest which we lost.  The athlete therefore has missed 5 of the 20 basketball contests or 25%.  The athlete still has 25% of a penalty remaining which will be served when golf season arrives in the fall because he/she participated in fall golf and not in a spring sport the previous year.
• All suspensions will be based on contests at which level the athlete participates.  i.e. freshman, jv, or varsity.
• If a code or apparent code violation occurs, and the individual refuses to cooperate with the investigation by school authorities, he/she may be suspended from the sport until cooperation is obtained or until the investigation is complete, at which time further penalties may be imposed.
• A season is defined as the total number of regularly scheduled contests. (This would be the number of contests listed on a team’s schedule.) This does not include IHSAA tournament contests.
• A coach may make team specific rules that are more restrictive than this code.  Such rules must be approved by the athletic director prior to implementation and on file in the athletic office.  Once approved these rules must be provided to team members and parents in writing. 
• A student may not participate (except practice if allowed by the code) during the appeals process.  He/She has already been judged to have violated the code and therefore the penalty begins immediately upon his/her hearing with the Athletic Director.
• Because we adhere strongly to the policy that a student athlete is a representative of his school and community, all athletes are responsible to hold themselves to this code    and to high standards of behavior 365 days per year for the four years of high school.  This code comes into effect when a student officially graduates from the 8th grade. The policy has no jurisdiction over non-athletes or over athletes who renounce their eligibility to compete.
• Violations from middle school shall not be carried over to high school, but all high school violations shall be considered   cumulative.

• PRACTICES: REGULAR, VACATION * SCHOOL CLOSING
  All team members are expected to attend all practices.  Practice schedules during school vacations are set by the coach and only the coach can excuse an athlete from practice.  Practice during a school closing time (snow, cold, etc.) are sometimes held and attendance at these practices are considered voluntary.

  School Attendance
  Shall attend school a minimum of the last two periods of a school day in order to practice or compete in athletic contests.  Individual circumstances which may prove to be the exception shall be handled by the athletic director.

   

  COACH / PARENT / STUDENT COMMUNICATION

  A vital part of Lafayette Jefferson High School educational program is the interscholastic athletic program.  The purpose of such a program is to develop desirable attitudes and habits towards sports in particular and life in general; to promote good citizenship and sportsmanship; to promote unity and cooperation among athletes, coaches, parents, and administrators, and to better prepare young people for post-school competition in society.  This purpose is not to develop college or professional players, or to prepare gifted athletes for Olympic competition.

  PARENT / COACH RELATIONSHIPS
  Both parenting and coaching are extremely rewarding but sometimes difficult vocations.  By establishing an understanding of each other’s positions, we are better able to accept the actions of the other and provide greater benefit to children.  As parents, when your children become involved in our program, you have a right to understand what expectations are placed on your child.  This begins with clear communication from the coach of your child’s program.

  COMMUNICATION YOU SHOULD EXPECT FROM YOUR CHILD’S COACH

  • Philosophy of the coach.
  • Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all the players on the squad (i.e. what is your child’s role on the team).
  • Locations and times of all practices and contests (realizing that flexibility is necessary).
  • Team requirements, i.e., fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning, level of skill required.
  • Procedure should your child be injured during the participation.

   

  COMMUNICATION COACHES EXPECT FROM PARENTS

  • Concerns expressed directly to the coach.
  • Notification of any schedule conflict well in advance.
  • Specific concerns in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations.
  • As we grow, schedule conflicts will become increasingly evident, and choices between activities will have to be made by the student and family with clear communication to the coaches.

  APPROPRIATE CONCERNS TO DISCUSS WITH COACHES

  • The treatment of your child, mentally and physically.
  • Ways to help your child improve.
  • Concerns about your child’s behavior

  It is very difficult to accept your child’s not playing as much as you hope.  Coaches are professional.  They make judgment decisions based on what they believe to be best for all students involved and are not out to harm any child.  As you have seen from the list above, certain things can be discussed with your child’s coach.  Other things must be left to the discretion of the coach.

  ISSUES NOT APPROPRIATE TO DISCUSS WITH COACHES

  • Playing time.
  • Team strategy.
  • Play calling.
  • Other student athletes.

  PROCEDURES FOR RESOLVING CONCERNS

  • As your children become involved in the programs at Lafayette Jeff, they will experience some of the most rewarding moments of their lives.  It is important to understand that there also may be times when things do not go the way you or your child wishes.

  The first step in resolving issues with a coach is to see if your student athlete can resolve the issue.  Often a discussion with a coach resolves miscommunication or other issues.  Remember, part of the process of education and growing up is conflict resolution.  Student athletes should be the first step in the process.  If this step fails or it is simply a matter that needs adult/parent attention, then parents should move on to step 2.

  • Sometimes a situation will require a conference between the coach and the parent.  These conferences are encouraged if there is a problem.  It is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position.  When conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed to help promote a resolution of the issue of concern.

   

  Call to make an appointment with the coach (772-4700).

  If the coach cannot be reached, the Athletic Director will assist you in making the appointment.

  Do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice.  These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach.  Meetings of this nature do not promote resolution.

  
  

  WHAT CAN A PARENT DO IF THE MEETING WITH
  THE COACH DID NOT PROVIDE A SATISFACTORY RESOLUTION?
       
  In the event of the above occurring, the parent can call the Athletic Director to make an appointment to discuss
  the situation.  At this meeting, the appropriate next step can be determined.

  CONCLUSION
  Since research indicates that students who participate in athletics receive higher grades and have a greater chance for success in adulthood, we consider athletics an important part of the total educational process.  Many of the character traits required to be a successful participant are exactly those that will promote a successful life after high school.  With all that has been said in this section, the school takes the stance that good communication begins at home between parent and child.  It is most definitely a two-way street.  We hope the information provided here makes both your child’s and your experience with the Jefferson Athletic Program an enjoyable one.

   

  PARENT (FAN) DECORUM

  Rule 3, Article 3-6, page 17 IHSAA By-Laws:
  “A member school’s responsibility includes the responsibility of instituting full and complete team and crowd control measures at all contests…assuring that the participants, staff and boosters of the member school conduct themselves at all times in a proper and sportsmanlike manner, assuring full compliance…of the member school of all Association rules…”

  At a time when society is experiencing increased incidents of physical confrontations and unmanaged anger, often associated with youth sports, Jefferson High School wishes to state a philosophical stance of keeping our athletes, coaches, and fans safe; insisting on proper behavior, and promoting our positive reputation as regards to sportsmanship.

  We recognize that the majority of our parents and fans set a behavioral example of the highest standard.  However, the few who do not, force us to address these issues.

  In as much as our coaches have certain standards of expected behavior (Coaches Handbook), our student athletes are governed by the Student-Athlete Behavioral Code, and regular students are subject to school rules at athletic events; it becomes incumbent upon us to set standards for the behavior of our adult fans and parents.

  Jefferson High School will not condone or permit inappropriate parental behavior directed toward Jefferson staff or players, the opposing school and all its representatives, or the game officials.  Such behavior by parents can cause the school to suffer severe sanctions from the IHSAA and is embarrassing to the school and community.  Inappropriate behavior is embarrassing to the school and reflects poorly on our values as a community.

  Jefferson High School supports the IHSAA rules and emphasis on good sportsmanship.  We embrace this fully by definition and in spirit of intent.  Proper human courtesies, kindness and decorum must apply to all relationships and situations, and sports are no exception.  High school sports exist to build character, allow students to express themselves through physical exertion, and as entertainment.  There is no place for poor behavior toward anyone.

  Parents need to understand certain facets of the structure of high school athletics and the relationships involved.

  • There is no inherent right to participate.  Coaches will only retain those players whose skills and attitudes meet the needs of the program, as defined by the coach.
  • Likewise, the coach alone is responsible for deciding who plays and how much.
  • By allowing one’s child or children to play sports, the parent is, in effect, turning the child over to that coach for that time period.  The coach, as is naturally assumed, will instruct the child and keep the child safe within normally accepted standards.
  • Coaches are professional and, until proven otherwise, it is assumed that they are operating within the best interests of all student athletes in their charge.
  • It is inappropriate for a parent to confront a coach after a practice or event.  Parents should wait until the next day and schedule a meeting with the coach.  This will help avoid conflict at a potentially emotional time.
  • Making derogatory comments about the officials, coaches, players of either team or other parents and fans at an athletic event is never acceptable.
  • Swearing in public at athletic events is never acceptable.
  • Coming to an athletic event intoxicated is not acceptable.
  • Being offensive in any fashion is not acceptable.

   

  Parents who violate any of the above standards of decorum risk sanctions by the school corporation including, but not limited to, the following:

  • A warning, verbal or written.               
  • Removal from the contest or premises.
  • Banishment from attendance at athletic contests for a short period of time or even permanently.
  • The severing of further contact with team personnel.
  • Civil or legal action could result.

  In conclusion, we commend those parents who have always exhibited exemplary behavior and who, by such, have served as positive role models for our student-athletes.  We encourage our parents to volunteer, to become involved with the teams, and to be supportive of the attempts of the entire community to educate our youth.  By working together, we will establish Jefferson High School and athletics as a “class” act.

  We sincerely want to strive to make sportsmanship at Jeff an expectation…

  Where we let players play, Coaches coach,

  Officials officiate and let fans be positive.

   

   

  Awards/Scholarships

  Any athlete, who earns a letter in three sports for two consecutive years and defends the letter his/her senior year, will be presented with an All-Sports Ring.

  Top 50 Awards are given by the Jeff Booster Club to the male and female athletes who rank in the Top 50 students in the senior class.

  Golden Broncho Award recipients are selected by the Board of Directors of the Golden Broncho Club and is given to the outstanding male and female athletes in the senior class.  To qualify for this award the athlete must participate in at least two sports during his or her senior year and rank in the upper 1/2 of the class.

  The Frank Snyder Award is given each year to the top student-athlete in the senior class.  Mr. Snyder, who was one of the organizers of the Booster Club, was a long-time member. 

  The Marion L. Crawley Scholarship was established in memory of one of Jefferson High School’s all-time great coaches.  Mr. Crawley coached two state championship basketball teams and was a member of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame.  The winner of this scholarship must have been either a football or basketball player, ranked in the upper 1/2 of the class, and attend a college or university in Indiana.

  The Norman Willey Scholarship was established by the family of Norm Willey to recognize an outstanding senior wrestler.  Mr. Willey coached many state championship wrestlers during his tenure at Jefferson High School.  He is a member of the Indiana Wrestling Hall of Fame.  This scholarship will be given to a senior wrestler, who furthers his education at an accredited school of higher learning.

  The Granny Scholarship was established by the family of Abbie Clippinger (the mother of Gail Gripe, our volleyball coach), who was an avid sports fan at Jefferson High School.  A scholarship will be given to a senior boy and girl, who have participated in boys’ or girls volleyball, boys’ or girls basketball, or girls tennis and who will attend a college or university in Indiana.

  The Bill Long Scholarship was established by his wife, Susan, in memory of Bill, who was an avid golfer.  This scholarship will be given each year to a senior boy and girl, who have demonstrated dedication and love of the sport.

  The Booster Club awards 20 scholarships each year to athletes who graduated the previous year and continue their education at an accredited school of higher learning.

  The Joe Heath Mental Attitude Scholarship has been established to honor Mr. Heath and recognize individuals who display positive character, honesty, integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship.  This scholarship will be given to a senior, who furthers his/her education at an accredited school of higher learning. 

  The Phil Hurt Cross Country Scholarship was established by the athletes Mr. Hurt had over more than forty years of coaching at Lafayette Jefferson.  Mr. Hurt is a member of the Indiana Coaches Hall of Fame for Track and Cross Country.  Mr. Hurt was best known for his dedication to the student athlete, his positive role model, and his work ethic.  This scholarship will be given to a boy and girl cross country senior each year for his/her educational needs.

  The Marian Howell “Heart of the Broncho” Scholarship was established to honor Mrs. Howell in recognizing an individual who demonstrates genuine dedication, spirit, and pride in being a Broncho.  Mrs. Howell was the first athletic secretary for Jefferson High School, a position she held for 25 years.  She loved Jefferson High School and was an avid Broncho sports fan.  This scholarship will be given to a senior boy or girl who furthers his or her education at an accredited school of higher learning.

  Individuals, who received a full ride at a college or university, are not eligible to receive the scholarships.

  IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER

  Awards Banquets

  Girls’ Golf                               Wednesday                  October 14, 2009           Press Box
  Boys’ Tennis                             Tuesday                       October 20, 2009           Jeff Cafeteria
  Girls’ Soccer                             Thursday                       October 29, 2009           Jeff Cafeteria
  Boys’ Soccer                            Wednesday                  October 28, 2009           Jeff Cafeteria
  Boys’/Girls’ Cross Country         Sunday                         November 1, 2009         Jeff Cafeteria
  Volleyball                                 Thursday                       November 5, 2009         Jeff Cafeteria
  Football                                                Sunday                         November 15, 2009       Jeff Cafeteria
  Wrestling                                  Sunday                         February 28, 2010         Jeff Cafeteria
  Boys’/Girls’ Swimming               Monday                                    March 8, 2010               Jeff Cafeteria
  Girls’ Basketball                                    Sunday                         March 7, 2010               Jeff Cafeteria
  Boys’ Basketball                       Sunday                         April 11, 2010                Jeff Cafeteria
  Senior Athletic Banquet             Sunday                         May 10, 2010                TBA
  Girls’ Tennis                              Thursday                       May 20, 2010                Jeff Cafeteria
  Boys’ Track                               Tuesday                       June 1, 2010                 Jeff Cafeteria
  Girls’ Track                                Wednesday                  June 2, 2010                 Jeff Cafeteria

  SAT Test Dates Sports scheduled on this date (subject to change)
  October 10, 2009           B. Tennis (Semi-State), Volleyball, B. Soccer (Sectional)
  November 7, 2009         Volleyball (State)
  December 5, 2009         Wrestling, B. Basketball, G. Basketball
  January 23, 2010           G. Basketball, Gymnastics
  March 6, 2010               B. Basketball (Sectional), Gymnastics (Sectional)
  May 1, 2010                  G. Tennis, Baseball, B. Golf
  June 5, 2010                 Softball (Regional), B. Track (State), Baseball (Regional)
                                                 

  ACT Test Dates Sports scheduled on those dates (subject to change)
  September 12, 2009      B. Tennis, Volleyball
  February 6, 2010           Wrestling (Regional), B Basketball, Swim (Sectional), Gymnastics
  June 12, 2010               Baseball (Semi-State)

   

  School Breaks

  October 23, 2009                       Fall break
  November 26, 27, 2009             Thanksgiving break
  December 19–January 3, 2010   Winter break
  March 27–April 4, 2010              Spring break

  
  

  LAFAYETTE JEFFERSON HIGH SCHOOL
  ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT STAFF

  If you need to contact any of the personnel listed below, call 772-4711.

  Athletic Director/Assistant Principal – Mark Preston
  Assistant Athletic Directors – Scot Bunnell, Tom Miller, Carlynn Smith
  Certified Athletic Trainers – Jeff Clevenger, Beth Miotke
  Strength and Conditioning – Wade Russell
  Athletic Secretary/Ticket Manager – Lydia Meacham

  Baseball Head Coach – Scott McTagertt
  Boys Basketball Head Coach – Scot Bunnell
  Girls Basketball Head Coach – Geoff Salmon
  Cheerleading Head Coach – Sue Beam
  Cross Country Head Coach – Dave Howell
  Football Head Coach – Andy Kennedy
  Boys Golf Head Coach – Dick Murray
  Girls Golf Head Coach – John Hatter
  Gymnastics Head Coach – Cindy Gregg
  Boys Soccer Head Coach – Tim Hollendonner
  Girls Soccer Head Coach – Coleen Hamrick
  Softball Head Coach – Lamar Simmons
  Swimming Head Coach – Jim Sharp
  Boys Tennis Head Coach – Stephen Smith
  Girls Tennis Head Coach – Stephen Smith
  Boys Track Head Coach – Larry Griggs
  Girls Track Head Coach – Roberta Honegger
  Volleyball Head Coach – Gail Gripe
  Wrestling Head Coach – Tom Miller

  
  

  SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOUR CHILD ENJOY THEIR HIGH SCHOOL ATHLETIC EXPERIENCE

   

  PARENT/ATHLETE RELATIONSHIP

  Being a supportive parent of your student-athlete is critical to your son or daughter’s athletic and personal development.  Below are suggested strategies to provide the kind of support that can foster that positive feedback and guidance that all young, impressionable people need.

  BEFORE THE FIRST GAME

   

  Before the first game ask YOURSELF the following questions:

  • Do I want them to play?  If so, why?
  • What will be a successful season for me as a parent?
  • What are my goals for them?
  • What do I hope they gain from the experience?

  Write these answers down and then when you have some uninterrupted time
  with your child, have him or her respond to the following questions:

  • Why are you playing?
  • What is a successful season?
  • What goals do you have?
  • What do you think your role will be on the team?

  Once your child is finished, compare your answers.  If your answers are the same, then you are on the right path.  However, if your answers are different from your child’s, you need to change your attitude to accept that of you child’s.  No questions!

  Once parents know their children are safe physically and emotionally, they should release them to the experience (the game, the team and the coach.)

  Parents should consider the following “red flags” that indicate that they have not “released” their young athlete to the game:

  • A parent who is living his own personal athletic dream through his or her child.
  • A parent who tends to share in the credit of the success of his or her child.
  • A parent who finds him or herself trying to solve all of the child’s athletic-related problems.  Athletics offers an excellent opportunity to allow kids to learn to solve their own problems.  It is all right, for example, for parents to teach their child how to talk to teammates or the coach as an authority figure, but they should let their child take responsibility for the actions involved in solving problems.

   

   

  DURING THE GAME

  • In order to help performance (both the athlete’s and his or her teammates’), the single most important contribution a parent can make during a game is to model appropriate behavior.  What athletes need their parents to model more than anything else is poise and confidence.
  • The second contribution parents can make is focusing on the team and the team’s goals.  When parents focus on things beyond their control, it only provides a crutch and helps build excuses, which in reality makes the adult a confidence cutter.
  • The third thing that kids need during a game is to have only one instructional voice offering advice.  That voice should be the coach’s.
  • Only four roles exist during a game: spectator, competitor, official, and coach.  Everyone involved in athletics would be wise to choose only one of those roles at a time.

   

  AFTER THE GAME

  • In order to establish a more wholesome atmosphere after the game, most athletes desperately want their parents to give them space and time and leave them alone.
  • Given the nature of sports, athletes rely on relationships to succeed in team sports.  They need to have confident, meaningful relationships with their teammates and coaches.  Young athletes do not need adults to question their actions, the actions of other players, or the coach’s decisions concerning strategy or playing time.
  • Following a game, parents should keep their corrections and criticisms in check and let their child bring the game to them if they want to.  We help develop better people when they seek their own answers.
  • The only time after a game that parents should initiate the conversation is when their child may have exhibited a behavior in the game that would not be acceptable at home. 
  • One comment from a parent that can always be sincerely said and received by any athlete is, “I love watching you play.”
  
  

  INSURANCE

  The Lafayette School Corporation DOES NOT have an accident or medical insurance policy that covers students while they are participating in ANY interschool sport program. 

  ALL medical expenses incurred as a result of participating in ANY interschool sport program are the responsibility of the parent(s)/guardian(s).

   

  Information for Parents
  Needing Insurance for their Student/Athlete

  HOOSIER HEALTHWISE FOR CHILDREN is a health insurance program for children in Indiana.  It is operated by the State of Indiana.  Depending upon family income, some families may not have to pay any premiums for this insurance.  For more information, please call toll free 1-800-889-9949.