WCHS Golden Eagle Football Handbook (2014
Wahlert Catholic High School Golden Eagles Football Parent / Player Handbook 2014-2015 Vision & Mission Statement – Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagles Football Vision For Wahlert Catholic football to be recognized as one of the best football programs in Iowa, all program members strive to practice Catholic discipleship; have a burning passion to build into the lives of others in meaningful ways; work hard to determine their own success; put TEAM first; and strive to do the right thing. Our commitment to this vision will give us the strength to make tough decisions, persevere in times of adversity, and challenge one another to make the most of our time together. Mission The mission of Wahlert Catholic football is to develop young people to their highest potential. To empower Catholic disciples who are scholarathletes and concerned citizens. To produce graduates who are disciplined, compassionate, and respectful. To compete and win in a fun environment. To never give up and embrace adversity. To be an essential part of the Wahlert Catholic High School community. To act in a way that models TEAM before me. WCHS GOLDEN EAGLES FOOTBALL – PARENT/PLAYER HANDBOOK Welcome Welcome to the Wahlert Catholic High School Football Program! This handbook was developed for the student-athlete and their family as a guide, a resource, and includes other various components of the Golden Eagle Football Program. The coaching staff has made every effort to include all necessary information that is essential for the student-athlete and family. Please take the time to read the entire handbook. Upon completion of reading the handbook, a parent and the studentathlete must sign and return the last page to their respective head coach. Failure to complete this task will result in the student-athlete being unable to participate in preseason practice. If any student-athlete has questions regarding the handbook, policies, procedures, etc. please speak with your head coach. If family members have any questions, feel free to ask the head coach. If alternative communication is more convenient, feel free to contact the head coach via phone or email. This handbook is a living document. We understand that despite our best efforts, we may have omitted something. If you feel that there is something missing from this handbook, please feel free to share with us! The WCHS Golden Eagles Football Program is a program rich with tradition. We take great pride and are humbled by the type of young people we have the opportunity to teach, lead, and mentor. We are proud of your commitment and incredibly excited for the upcoming season. Coaching staff Varsity Head Coach: Travis Zajac Assistants: Jesse Freiburger, Kyle Howard, Tyler Lang, Dave Sullivan Sophomore Head Coach: Scott Ganshirt Assistants: Mark Eisbach, Dave Ernst Freshman Head Coach: Bob Oberfoell Assistants: Sean Campbell What you can expect from the coaching staff: At all levels of the WCHS Golden Eagles Football Program, the coaching staff will focus on teaching. Our responsibility is to put each player in a position to succeed. This is achieved by teaching our players the fundamentals and techniques necessary to execute their responsibilities. We will use a diverse set of teaching styles to effectively reach all players. The coaching staff will strive to communicate in an effective and professional manner. All players, regardless of skill level, deserve to be coached hard with dignity and respect. There is no substitute for communication! All coaches, players, and families should strive to consistently communicate expectations to enrich areas of strengths and develop areas that need attention. We will provide a competitive environment that will be fun, enriching, and successful. The coaching staff will work to build this environment by modeling enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is one of the most powerful emotions we can experience. All people display their enthusiasm in different ways. What we will model is a deep passion, respect, and love for the game of football. This enthusiasm will be apparent in our demeanor, the way we communicate with players and their families, and the genuine care we provide for each person in the WCHS Golden Eagles Football Program. We expect each player to commit to excellence. This is simply stated but incredibly difficult to do! It is our goal to help build in each player the skills necessary to execute their assignment on the football field. The coaching staff will also work to help each player develop themselves into the model Wahlert Catholic student who is a person of faith, moral decision maker, critical thinker, productive worker, effective communicator, and a creative person. Organizational Structure The Wahlert Catholic High School Football Program consists of three levels: Freshman, Sophomore, and Varsity. Each player will be assigned to one of these teams based upon his grade and skill level. Freshman Team: Only 9th graders are permitted to participate on the Freshman Team. Home games are played at Wahlert Catholic High School. Coach Oberfoell will provide a schedule of practices and games for each player. Coach Oberfoell has created an Edmodo page for the freshman team. The Edmodo code is n28ist. Sophomore Team: Both 9th graders and 10th graders are permitted to participate on the Sophomore Team. The Sophomore Team plays a nine game schedule and competes in 3A District 4. Sophomore games are played immediately before the varsity game (5:00 pm at all sites). Coach Ganshirt will provide a schedule of practices and games for each player. Varsity Team: The Varsity Team is made up of the best players Wahlert Catholic has to offer! This team can include 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th graders. Historically, this team is predominantly made up of 11th and 12th graders. While age is an important factor in considering who plays on the Varsity Team, skill level, maturity, desire, teamwork, etc. may result in a younger player invited to compete on the Varsity Team. The decision to move a younger player to the Varsity Team will only be made with the player, family, and coach consent. The Varsity Team plays a nine game schedule and competes for the championship in 3A District 4. Varsity football is an IHSAA sponsored sport with the opportunity to earn a berth in the 3A football playoffs. Summer Schedule & Preseason Practice Schedule (Including Golden Eagles Football Camp) Date Monday, June 9 Wednesday, June 11 Thursday, June 12 Friday, June 13 Sunday, June 15 Summer Schedule Week # 1 (Max Out Week) Event Time Last Day of School - Weights after school 3:00 - 4:30 PM Strength & Conditioning 6:00 - 7:30 AM Speed Camp 6:00 - 7:00 PM Strength & Conditioning 6:00 - 7:30 AM Summer Skills Session #1 6:00 - 7:30 PM Points 3 3 5 3 10 Notes Date Monday, June 16 Wednesday, June 18 Thursday, June 19 Friday, June 20 Sunday, June 22 Summer Schedule Week # 2 Event Strength & Conditioning Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Summer Skills Session #2 Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 PM Points 3 3 5 3 10 Notes Date Monday, June 23 Wednesday, June 25 Thursday, June 26 Friday, June 27 Summer Schedule Week # 3 Event Strength & Conditioning Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM Points 3 3 5 3 Notes Sunday, June 29 Summer Skills Session #3 6:00 - 7:30 PM 10 Date Monday, June 30 Tuesday, July 1 Wednesday, July 2 Summer Schedule Week # 4 Event Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM Points 3 5 3 Notes Date Monday, July 7 Wednesday, July 9 Thursday, July 10 Friday, July 11 Sunday, July 13 Summer Schedule Week # 5 Event Strength & Conditioning Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Summer Skills Session #4 Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 PM Points 3 3 5 3 10 Notes Date Monday, July 14 Wednesday, July 16 Thursday, July 17 Friday, July 18 Sunday, July 20 Summer Schedule Week # 6 Event Strength & Conditioning Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Summer Skills Session #5 Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 PM Points 3 3 5 3 10 Notes Date Monday, July 21 Wednesday, July 23 Thursday, July 24 Friday, July 25 Sunday, July 27 Summer Schedule Week # 7 (Max Out Week) Event Time Strength & Conditioning 6:00 - 7:30 AM Strength & Conditioning 6:00 - 7:30 AM Speed Camp 6:00 - 7:00 PM Strength & Conditioning 6:00 - 7:30 AM Summer Skills Session #6 6:00 - 7:30 PM Points 3 3 5 3 10 Notes Date Monday, July 29 Wednesday, July 30 Thursday, July 31 Friday, August 1 Summer Schedule Week # 8 Event Strength & Conditioning Strength & Conditioning Speed Camp Strength & Conditioning Time 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:30 AM 6:00 - 7:00 PM 6:00 - 7:30 AM Points 3 3 5 3 Notes Date Monday, August 4 Tuesday, August 5 Wednesday, August 6 Thursday, August 7 Summer Schedule Week # 9 Event WCHS 9-12 Football Camp WCHS 9-12 Football Camp WCHS 9-12 Football Camp WCHS 9-12 Football Camp Time 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM Points 5 5 5 5 Notes Practice Jersey/Shorts/Cleats Practice Jersey/Shorts/Cleats Practice Jersey/Shorts/Cleats Practice Jersey/Shorts/Cleats Date Monday, August 11 Tuesday, August 12 Wednesday, August 13 Thursday, August 14 Friday, August 15 Summer Schedule Week # 10 Event WCHS 9-12 Practice # 1 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 2 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 3 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 4 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 5 Time 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM 3:00 PM - 7:00 PM Points 5 5 5 5 5 Notes Helmets Helmets Shells Shells Shells Saturday, August 16 WCHS 9-12 Practice #6 (open practice) 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM Date Monday, August 18 Tuesday, August 19 Wednesday, August 20 Thursday, August 21 Friday, August 22 Saturday, August 23 Summer Schedule Week # 11 Event WCHS 9-12 Practice # 7 (9th Orient.) WCHS 9-12 Practice # 8 (school start) WCHS 9-12 Practice # 9 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 10 WCHS 9-12 Practice # 11 Scrimmage vs. Oelwein Time 3:00 - 5:45 PM 3:00 - 5:45 PM 3:00 - 5:45 PM 3:00 - 5:45 PM 3:00 - 5:45 PM ?? 5 Full Gear Points 5 5 5 5 5 5 Notes Full Gear Full Gear Full Gear Full Gear Full Gear Full Gear Freshman Game Schedule Thursday, August 28 - @ Dubuque Senior - 6:00 pm Thursday, September 4 - @ Dubuque Hempstead - 4:30 pm Thursday, September 11 - Central Clinton - 4:30 pm Thursday, September 18 - @ Maquoketa - 6:30 pm Thursday, September 25 - Western Dubuque - 4:30 pm Thursday, October 2 - @ Davenport Assumption - 4:30 pm Thursday, October 9 - @ Cedar Rapids Xavier - 6:00 pm Thursday, October 16 - Marion - 4:00 pm Thursday, October 23 - Solon - 4:00 pm Sophomore Game Schedule Friday, August 29 – Senior – 5:00 PM Friday, September 5 – Hempstead – 5:00 PM Friday, September 12 - @ Central Clinton, DeWitt – 5:00 PM Friday, September 19 - Maquoketa – 5:00 PM Friday, September 26 - @Epworth, Western Dubuque – 5:00 PM Friday, October 3 - Davenport Assumption – 5:00 PM Friday, October 10 – Cedar Rapids Xavier – 5:00 PM Friday, October 17 - @Marion – 5:00 PM Friday, October 24 - @Solon – 5:00 PM Varsity Game Schedule Friday, August 29 – Senior – 7:15 PM Friday, September 5 – Hempstead – 7:15 PM Friday, September 12 - @ Central Clinton, DeWitt – 7:15 PM Friday, September 19 - Maquoketa – 7:15 PM Friday, September 26 - @Epworth, Western Dubuque – 7:15 PM Friday, October 3 - Davenport Assumption – 7:15 PM Friday, October 10 – Cedar Rapids Xavier – 7:15 PM Friday, October 17 - @Marion – 7:15 PM Friday, October 24 - @Solon – 7:15 PM Wednesday, October 29 – IAHSAA Football Playoffs (1st Round) Monday, November 3 – IAHSAA Football Playoffs (2nd Round) Friday, November 7 – IAHSAA Football Playoffs (Quarterfinals) Thursday, November 13 – IAHSAA Football Playoffs (Semifinals at UNIDome) Thursday, November 20 – IAHSAA Football Playoffs (Championship Game at UNIDome) Expectations Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagles football players represent their family, program, school, and coaches. Much is expected of those who choose to participate. All players are expected to conduct themselves as young men of character; treat others with respect; follow all school and team rules; and be proud to be a Golden Eagle! All players are expected to do the right thing. Worry about what you can control! Golden Eagles Football Team Rules 1. Be on time! 2. Do the right thing! 3. Work hard! Exceptional Club In November 2013, all football players received a handout with a detailed explanation of the Exceptional Club. The Exceptional Club is an accountability system where players are rewarded with points for good grades, service work, participation in other sports, weight training, and other positive behaviors. Conversely, the Exceptional Club system deducts points for tardies, conduct points, detentions, poor grades, and other poor choices. We are trying to build an identity within the football program where trust and accountability are a necessity. Good decision making and gentlemanly behavior will have a positive effect on Friday nights. Poor decision making and foolishness will result in a player who cannot be trusted, thus making him a poor teammate, and someone we cannot count on come game time. Coach Zajac has been tracking points for all current freshmen, sophomores, and juniors since December 2, 2013. Players who have accumulated the most points by the end of our camp (August 7, 2014) will be first in line for equipment handout, team meals, and all other team functions. If any player accumulates less than 250 points before our scrimmage against Oelwein, he will be ineligible to compete in the scrimmage. For our incoming freshman class, we will begin tracking your points at the start of summer workouts on Wednesday, June 11. A brief rundown of how to earn points this summer: Attend Strength & Conditioning Sessions – 3 points per day Attend Summer Speed Camp – 5 points per day Attend Summer Skills Nights Sessions – 10 points per day Begin & Finish baseball – 60 points Bonus for attending more than 90% of Strength & Conditioning Sessions – 40 points Attend Wahlert Catholic Football Camp – 5 points per day Attend Wahlert Catholic Football Practice – 5 points per day Important Notes *If any returning player is short of 250 points at the time of our scrimmage, he will be ineligible to participate in the scrimmage. *If any points are lost during the season, player will face additional disciplinary action in accordance with the Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagles Football Program Handbook. *Players can receive “bonus points” for going above and beyond expectations, based on coach discretion. *It is your responsibility to check in with the football coach who is supervising the weight room. *We ask that players attempt to attend the weight room three days a week and perform the prescribed workout. Coach Howard will create an individual workout for all players. *If players are in the weight room but are not performing the workout prescribed by the coaching staff, they will not receive the points possible. The Plan *We train together as a program. *Multi-sport athletes are encouraged to work out!!! *Attendance is taken. *The lessons you will learn and the relationships you will make will last a lifetime! *What seems like asking a lot is normal in the schools that WIN! Exceptional Club – Rankings & Benefits LEVEL PERCENTAGE 90% + SUPERIOR Golden 478 points + (returners) Eagle 243 points + (newcomers) DEDICATED Golden Eagle Would of. . . Could of. . . Should of. . . If only. . . 80% - 89% 425 – 477 points (returners) 216 – 242 points (newcomers) 70% - 79% 371 – 424 points (returners) 189 – 241 points (newcomers) 60% - 69% 318 – 370 points (returners) 162 – 240 points (newcomers) 50% - 59% 265 – 317 points (returners) 239 – 135 points (newcomers) 49% or less 264 or less (returners) 134 or less (newcomers) STATUS & BENEFITS *Captain eligible *2 conditioning exemptions during preseason practice *SUPERIOR Golden Eagle T-Shirt & Award Recognition *Athletic Program recognition *Priority gear distribution; meals; team functions. *Captain eligible *1 conditioning exemption during preseason practice *DEDICATED Golden Eagle T-Shirt *Athletic Program recognition *Secondary gear distribution *1 day of MAKE-UPS (additional conditioning) during pre-season practice. *Must pass conditioning test before receiving gear. *2 days of MAKE-UPS (additional conditioning) during pre-season practice. *Must pass conditioning test before receiving gear. *3 days of MAKE-UPS (additional conditioning) during pre-season practice. *Must pass conditioning test before receiving gear. *4 days of MAKE-UPS (additional conditioning) during pre-season practice. *Must pass conditioning test before receiving gear. A copy of the Exceptional Club handout is available on our football team website, www.wahlertcatholicfootball.com. The point totals accumulated by all players is also available there and will be updated weekly. I encourage all players and families to familiarize themselves with this system. Practice & Game Expectations Practice There is no substitute for practice! The success of our football teams, regardless of level, is a direct reflection of how WE practice. Practice is where the plan for success is implemented, honed, and sharpened. Good habits are coached and the players are expected to try with 100% effort to execute these good habits. Attendance at practice and games is mandatory. All players, regardless of grade, will respect the following guidelines for practice attendance: ^Late to or absent from practice = Miss 1 quarter of the next game ^Late to or absent from 2nd practice = Miss one game & mandatory conference between coach, player, and players’ parents. ^Late to or absent from 3rd practice = Dismissed from the WCHS Golden Eagle Football Program If for some reason an athlete cannot attend a practice or a game, he must call or speak to his head coach in person to explain why he cannot attend (after school detentions are not excused). All other absences will be handled at the discretion of the head coach. The coaching staff understands that some appointments (doctor, dentist, etc.) may occasionally conflict with practice. We ask that appointments be scheduled around practice schedules whenever possible. All athletes are expected to be on time for practices, prayer services, bus trips, team functions, and games. All athletes and parents will be provided with a practice, meeting, and game schedule. After receipt of the team schedule, it is the athlete’s responsibility to know when and where he is practicing, playing, or meeting. Practice time means that the player is dressed in the appropriate gear and ready to play. Coaches will inform athletes when to arrive for home games and when buses will depart for away games. It is a good idea for athletes to give themselves extra time to arrive at practice and games. A good rule of thumb: Early is on time and on time is late! Facilities (Locker Rooms, Weight Room, etc.) Locker rooms are areas in which teams dress and meet. Each team (Freshman, Sophomore, and Varsity) will be assigned their own locker room. These areas are to be kept clean and picked up at all times. The same holds true for the hallways and corridors that lead from the locker rooms to the entrance/exit doors. Players are not to wear their cleats in the building at any time! Each player is responsible for his equipment and it must be picked up at night and put in the locker provided. No WCHS Golden Eagles Football program issued equipment will be stored in vehicles! Old tape, prewrap, etc. are to be thrown in a trash bin and not thrown on the floor. If you received an ice bag from the Athletic Training Room, you are to empty the ice into a sink and throw the plastic bag into a trash bin. Treat the locker rooms with respect. Treat your teammates with respect and keep the locker room clean. The weight room is a special place. We are fortunate to have a state of the art facility for training the athletes at WCHS. All players are to wear Golden Eagles attire (school colored shirt and shorts) and closed toe shoes when they train in the weight room. All athletes are responsible for racking their weights when they have finished with a lift. Treat the weight room with respect. Treat your teammates with respect and keep the weight room clean. Although keeping our areas tidy and orderly may seem trivial, they are often times symptomatic of larger issues. People who keep their places of work, study, and play orderly often are often more able to focus easily and distractions are minimal. On the other hand, when these same areas are left in disarray, these sloppy habits carry over to how people prepare, study, and ultimately perform. Carrying over bad habits into game settings illustrates a team that lacks discipline. Attire Meetings – WCHS shirt (t-shirt, polo shirt, etc.), shorts or pants, and shoes or sandals. Weight Room – WCHS t-shirt and shorts; closed toe shoes. Practice – Every player is to wear the practice jersey he was issued, regardless of protective equipment worn (Helmets, Shells, or Full Gear). When wearing only Helmets or Shells, players are expected to wear their issued WCHS Golden Eagles Football shorts. Practice pants are to be kept clean and should be taken home regularly to be laundered as this prevents disease. All players are to wear an undershirt under their shoulder pads. This will prevent chaffing and open wounds. All players are to wear football cleats (detachable or molded). These cleats must be comfortable and provide proper support. Acceptable colors are blue, black, or white. No “flashy” cleats will be allowed. Every player is to wear each piece of protective clothing and padding that was issued to him. Without each piece of protective equipment properly worn, the athlete puts himself in a position to be injured. If athletes misplace equipment, they are responsible for it, and if it is lost, they will be charged for a replacement piece of equipment. Jewelry – No jewelry (earring, chains, rings, etc.) are allowed in the meeting room, weight room, practice field, or games. Training Room – All athletes will wear a shirt, shorts, and shoes into the Athletic Training Room. The only exception to this rule is if it is okayed by an Athletic Trainer as part of treatment or rehabilitation. Games (uniform) – Each athlete will be issued a uniform to wear for games. They are responsible to bring the uniform with them to each game. All players, regardless of level, should wear a pair of plain white socks with his game uniform. All players, regardless of level, will keep their jersey tucked in at all times. All players, regardless of level, are not allowed to wear any jewelry during games. If the player feels he needs to wear a long-sleeve undershirt, it must be either royal blue or white! Travel When traveling with the football team athletes are representing themselves, their team, their school, and their community. Athletes are expected to dress in WCHS approved polo shirt, khaki pants, and closed toe shoes. No jeans are permitted. School Performance Education is the primary reason student-athletes are at Wahlert Catholic High School! Wahlert offers each student the opportunity to attain one of the finest educations in the country! His work in class is more important than anything else in which the athlete may become involved. To maintain eligibility, the following is expected: 1) Students must earn a passing grade in a minimum of 25 credits in each grading period. A student who fails to pass 25 credits at one of the progress grading periods is ineligible until they have earned 25 credits. A student who does not earn 25 credits at the first semester grading period will be ineligible until the first progress grades of the second semester are distributed. A student who does not earn 25 credits at the second semester grading period will be ineligible from the first day of school until the first progress grades of the next semester. 2) Students must maintain a good conduct record both in and out of school during the school year and in the summer months. Any student, whose conduct or habits at any time of the year are such to make that student unworthy to represent the ideals and principles of Wahlert Catholic High School, shall become ineligible to participate in and/or attend Wahlert activities. Students who violate the Substance Abuse policy are also covered under this section of the Code. Other requirements: 1) Medical Exams - Every year each student-athlete must have a certificate of medical examination signed by a licensed physician, osteopathic physician, or a chiropractor licensed by his/her state association to give physical examinations. The exam is good for one calendar year. You are encouraged to get a medical exam during the months of June or July. 2) No student shall be allowed to attend or participate in any extra curricular activities, including but not limited to games, performances, practice or rehearsals, if the student has failed to be in attendance three and a half consecutive hours on a seven hour school day or two and a half consecutive on a five hour school day. 3) Students and their parent must sign a Holy Family Athletic Participation Agreement once during their high school years and have on file at school. 4) Students must have a current physical form and concussion protocol form on file in the athletic office. Requirements mandated by the Iowa High School Athletic Association (IAHSAA) In addition to the above requirements, athletes must comply with the Iowa State Board of Education Administrative Code Scholarship Rules 36.15(2). This rule states that: 1) All contestants must be enrolled and in good standing in a school that is a member or associate member in good standing of the organization sponsoring the event. 2) All contestants must be under 20 years of age. 3) All contestants shall be enrolled students of the school in good standing. They shall receive credit in at least four subjects, each of one period or “hour” or the equivalent thereof, at all times. 4)Each contestant shall be passing in all coursework for which credit is given and shall be making adequate progress toward graduation requirements at the end of the final grading period. At Wahlert the final grading period is at the end of the semester. 5) If not passing all courses at the end of a final grading period, the student is ineligible for the first period of 30 consecutive calendar days in the interscholastic athletic event in which the student is a contestant. The student may not dress, nor compete in any athletic contest for this period of 30 days. 6) Iowa Law (Code Section 280.13C) Requires that each student has a signed concussion form on file. Time management is vital for the student-athlete to have a successful experience as a student and athlete. Balancing school work, practices and games, family commitments, and social life is challenging. We encourage all student-athletes and their families to focus on developing this vital life skill. Be proactive, have a plan, and communicate areas of concern! Behavior Being an athlete at Wahlert Catholic High School is a privilege. This privilege often puts the student-athletes in the spotlight. Football receives a great deal of attention and press in the community. People in the community know who athletes are, and some will try to find fault in anything an athlete does. First class programs are made of first class people. Wahlert athletes are expected to conduct themselves with class and dignity. Be humble and treat others with respect. These people include teachers, administrators, coaches, teammates, opponents, officials, fans, friends, bus drivers, custodians, strangers, cashiers, and EVERYONE YOU COME IN CONTACT WITH! Athletes are to obey all of the rules of Wahlert Catholic High School and all civil laws. The Wahlert Handbook lists the consequences of breaking a rule. The coaching staff may determine additional consequences. Athletes must conduct themselves properly at all games. Their conduct will be on display during all games. Displays of displeasure and disagreement with official’s decision or situations within the game are unacceptable. Nutrition & Rest Playing athletics require a great deal of energy. It is the athlete’s responsibility to keep his body in its best possible condition. Athletes must be well rested and properly fed. We recommend a minimum of eight hours of sleep per night. This again will require time management on the athlete’s part to complete his class work and other responsibilities in time to get the rest he needs. What athletes eat directly affects how they feel and how they perform. All football student-athletes will be educated on making healthy nutritional choices. Adhere to these ten simple rules and your body will gain maximum benefit from the strength and conditioning programs we will develop: 1. Always eat breakfast! 2. Eat every 2-3 hours. 3. Protein should be included in each meal, this should come from low fat sources such as chicken, fish, turkey, eggs, low-fat or fat free dairy (greek yogurt, milk, cottage cheese), and lean beef. 4. Get color onto your plate! A fruit and vegetable should be eaten each meal. 5. Avoid high sugar products food or drink. This includes drinks such as Sunny-D or Kool-Aid and pop. As well as foods like cookies, candy and ice cream. 6. Choose complex carbohydrates. (brown rice, multigrain, whole grain, or whole wheat options) 7. Stay away from pre-prepared food if possible (fast food, vending machines, frozen dinners). 8. Prepare food ahead of time is possible, this will help with last minute choices and settling for whatever is available. Understand that you are an athlete and not the average person! 9. Bookend your workouts – pre and post! Your workout is not complete until you eat! 10. FLUIDS, FLUIDS, FLUIDS! Water should be your #1 drink of choice, Gatorade should be #2. Award recipient procedure Wahlert awards certificates, numerals, letters and plaques for participation in its athletic programs. The coaching staff asks that all players attend their awards banquet at the conclusion of the football season. Unexcused absences from the awards banquet could jeopardize the player receiving their award(s). The following describes the requirements to receive each: 9th Grade Numerals – All 9th graders who complete the season and attend the 9th grade awards night will receive 9th grade numerals reflecting their class and a certificate. Sophomore Certificate – Any member of the sophomore team who completes the season and attends the awards night will receive a sophomore certificate. Minor Letter/Certificate – Any player who participates with the varsity team, but does not play in one half of the varsity games will receive the minor letter and certificate. Varsity Letter – In order to earn a varsity letter, a player must play in at least one half of the total number of varsity games for that season and attend the awards banquet at the end of the season. A varsity letter will also be awarded to a member of the team who has participated in football for four years and attends the awards banquet at the end of the season. Two Year Certificates – Any player who earns a second letter for football will also receive a special second year certificate. Three Year Pin – Any player who earns a third varsity letter for football will also receive a special three year pin. Four Year Plaques – Any player who earns a fourth varsity letter for football will also receive a special fourth year plaque. Injured Players – Any player injured during the season who remains with the team (attending ALL practices and games) will receive the award for which he was in the progress of winning. For example, if a player played in at least one half of the varsity contests prior to his injury or after recovery from his injury completes the one half requirement, he would receive a varsity letter. If he plays in less than one half of the varsity contests, he would receive a participation certificate. Transportation 9th Grade Team – For games that are played out of town or away from Wahlert, athletes will travel by school bus to their destination and back. Sophomore Team – Sophomores will travel to all away games on a chartered bus but for shorter trips, may use a school bus. For home contests, sophomores will be shuttled from Wahlert to Loras College for the contest. After the game the athletes will be taken back to Wahlert where they will shower, and then, they will be returned to Loras College for the varsity contest. After the varsity game, it is the responsibility of the athlete or his parent to supply transportation home or to Wahlert to pick up his or her vehicle. Varsity Team – Varsity players will travel to all away contests on a chartered bus but for shorter trips, may use a school bus. In years where we have more players than seats on the bus, we will take a van, if possible, to accommodate all of the athletes. For home contests, athletes will be shuttled from Wahlert to Loras College and from Loras College to Wahlert after the contest. Exceptions – If athletes are scheduled to travel on school transportation, but wish to go home with their parents, the following guidelines must be followed: 1. The coach is made aware of the situation in advance (note, phone call, email, etc.) 2. There is a visible connection made between the parents and the coach following the contest. In other words, the student-athlete may not simply leave the locker room area to go to the parking lot, but the parents must seek out the coach and confirm that their son/daughter is leaving with them and are now their responsibility. 3. If a student-athlete wishes to accompany another team member’s parents’ home, a written note is required by both sets of parents detailing the situation and giving permission. Then, following the contest, the parents driving home must make a visible connection with the coach and assume responsibility for the studentathlete(s). Fundraising We will again be selling discount cards in August. We will build incentives into the card sales where athletes can earn free apparel for selling above and beyond the standard of 15 cards. This is the only fundraiser we use and it was wildly successful last season. Family Involvement The WCHS Golden Eagles Football Program includes players, coaches, AND families! Your support contributes much of the strength and success of the WCHS Golden Eagles Football Program. Over the years, families have supported their children and this program enthusiastically. Wahlert is known throughout the city and state for the unbelievable support it gets from families. We invite families to become actively involved in our program. The following are a few things that families have done in the past: Road Trip Coolers – Families are encouraged to help players prepare a small cooler with food to eat prior to and following out of town games. This practice helps the athletes in numerous ways. First, he has quality food to eat both before and after the game. Also, when parents help, the food is usually healthy (fruits, sandwiches, juices, etc.) and helps the athlete avoid the temptation of loading their cooler with Twinkies and Ho-Ho’s. Team Meals – Most families have been kind enough to volunteer to help with one or two meals during the season. Each meal in the past has been prepared and served by a group of parents. No one is expected to undertake this task by him or herself. These meals are usually scheduled for 5:30 or 6:00 the night before the game. We would like to have this team meal in the Wahlert cafeteria. Post Season Banquet – At the conclusion of the season, the athletic director will ask a football player’s parents to serve as the chair for the football section of the fall sports banquet. This parent will establish a committee to help in the preparation of the banquet set up. Stats Crew – If you are interested in serving on the stats crew for sophomore and varsity games, please contact Coach Zajac. Chain Gang – Last season, a group of sophomore dad’s worked the chain gang for varsity games and varsity dad’s worked the chain gang for sophomore games. We would appreciate this same help again. If you interested in serving on the chain gang, please contact Coach Zajac. Apparel Order – Over the last several seasons, a group of parents has gotten together to provide players and families an opportunity to order football specific shirts, sweatshirts, coats, etc. If you are interested in helping with this, please contact Jacque Bohr. Website Maintenance – If you’re technologically savvy and want to help maintain our football program website, contact Coach Zajac. Wahlert Community Open Practice – Saturday, August 16 is our first full pads practice. We would like to invite all families and the Wahlert Community to attend practice. Wahlert Football Team Picnic – At the conclusion of practice on Saturday, August 16, we would like to have a family picnic. Quarterback Club Fundraiser – We will gather at the Morrocco Supper Club on the evening of Saturday, August 23 Other Ideas – If any family or group of families has an idea for further involvement, do not hesitate to contact Coach Zajac to talk about your ideas. We want to include as many families as possible in our program! Sportsmanship and Modeling Behavior Our parents are our most valued fans. The coaching staff and players could not do what we do without your support! We appreciate the energy, care, and enthusiasm you bring to our program. Wahlert is proud that our parents display the utmost sportsmanship during games. Wahlert parents have always demonstrated respect for their opponents, officials, and fans from other conference schools. Please continue this wonderful tradition! The coaching staff wants nothing but the best for all players in the WCHS Golden Eagle Football Program. Although the coaching staff will make every effort to assign the player to the best position, make the right play call, or provide the right amount of playing time, we will make mistakes. This is when we need parents to model behavior appropriate to the situation. If a player or parent has a concern about their child’s experience in the WCHS Golden Eagle Football Program, please encourage your child to follow this procedure: 1. Speak to their position coach first. 2. If the player does not feel that their concerns have been rectified, encourage the player to speak with their head coach. 3. If the player does not feel that their concerns have been rectified, the head coach will arrange a meeting with the player AND parent(s). The head coach will not discuss any other player or parent in this meeting. 4. If the player or parents do not feel that their concerns have been rectified, the varsity head coach will arrange a meeting with the player AND parent(s). The head coach will not discuss any other player or parent in this meeting. Injury prevention and treatment As in most competitive sports, when playing football, a risk of injury exists. The risk of injury increases as the level of competition increases due to the speed of the game, the abilities of the athletes, and the size of the individuals participating in the contest. Our training methods take into account the risk of injury. Emphases is placed on proper, gradual, and complete physical conditioning in order to provide our athletes with optimal readiness for the rigors of the sport. Consistent attendance at offseason weight training and conditioning during the offseason is the key to avoiding injury! We attempt to instruct our athletes in the proper techniques of running, catching, blocking, and tackling. We emphasize to the athletes that they should never hit with their helmets, and that if they do, they can be seriously injured. Athletes are instructed that contact should always be made with the head up and never with the top of the head or helmet. We are very concerned with the well-being of our athletes and we take precautions to never place them in a situation where injury is probable. We are very sensitive to the safety concerns of all of our athletes. The most common injuries in football are scrapes, bruises, strains, and sprains. Football is a violent sport, and athletes must realize that if techniques are performed incorrectly, the risk of injury increases. While a complete list of injuries would be too lengthy to include, jammed fingers, sprained ankles, etc. have occurred in some of our players over the years. Serious injuries, which include broken bones, torn ligaments, and concussions, occur much less frequently. Tracy Steffen, our Assistant Activities Director and Head Athletic Trainer, expects all athletes to adhere to the following guidelines in the Athletic Training Room: 1. All staff and student athletic trainers are to be treated with respect, courtesy, and given full cooperation. 2. Taping and treatment will be on a “first come, first serve” basis. Student-athletes should arrive immediately following school or in ample time prior to practice, competition, or departure times. 3. The athlete and/or coach must report any athletic related injury to the athletic trainer as soon as possible. 4. Any athlete unable to participate in activity will remain present at practice/completion in some capacity. Any athlete seeking further medical attention MUST have a physician’s release turned in before returning to activity. 5. An athlete is never allowed to take any prescription medication(s), which has not been prescribed to him/her by a physician. Additionally, no prescription or over the counter (OTC) drugs, such as ibuprofen, Tylenol, etc. may be administered to student-athletes by coaches or other staff without parental written/oral consent. 6. The athletic training room and/or bathroom will not be used as a changing room. 7. ALL book bags, duffel bags, shoes, uniforms, etc. will be kept outside of the athletic training room! Staff is not responsible for any lost or stolen items. 8. Any items or materials used while in the athletic training room must be placed back in its proper location and any messes left behind will be cleaned up by each individual. 9. Coaches are responsible to have emergency contact information for all student-athletes at all times. 10. Profanity, horseplay, or social loitering in the athletic training room will not be permitted! If an athlete is injured, Tracy will take care of the injury on site, and will make the appropriate recommendations as to how the athlete should be treated for the injury. She may recommend ice, rehabilitation, or a visit to the doctor’s office. Our staff works closely with Tracy, and she works closely with the physicians throughout Dubuque. We will seek her opinion on the fitness of an athlete to participate in practice or a game following injury or and rehabilitation. Head injuries, namely concussions, are common concerns for football players. If a player has any of the following symptoms, he should report them to his coach or Tracy immediately: blurred vision, ringing in the ears, nausea/vomiting, amnesia, loss of consciousness, inability to concentrate, sleep disturbances, change in vision, ringing in the ears, headaches, or peculiar behavior. College Football Opportunities There are plenty of options available for football players who are skilled enough and have a desire to play competitively at the collegiate level. At Wahlert, we have had multiple players go on to play college football. There are several highly competitive divisions, conferences, and schools in the upper Midwest region: NCAA Division I – This is the most competitive level of collegiate football. Players may become a part of a Division I program by earning a scholarship or by walking on as a tryout as the season begins. Division I scholarships cover the cost of tuition, room, and board. In today’s dollars, it is not unusual for a scholarship to be worth in excess of $100,000 over a four to five year period. If athletes are wondering if they could earn a Division I scholarship, they must ask themselves how they compare to the former players who are playing or who have played for a Division I school. NCAA Division II – These schools offer some full scholarships but most offer partial scholarships. There are many highly competitive Division II schools, some that compete with and beat Division I teams. NCAA Division III – Division III schools are not permitted to offer scholarships for athletic participation. They do, however, have financial aid which is available to all students. Again, there are many competitive Division III programs, including many in Iowa, such as the schools of the Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. NAIA – NAIA schools are generally small schools much like Division III institutions. Some NAIA schools can offer athletic scholarships. Some do not. The athlete must ask the coach at the school he is interested in about its financial aid policy. Junior College – There are two year schools that prepare the athlete for his final two years of college. Upon completion of two years at a junior college, the player will have to transfer to a four year college or university to complete his bachelor’s degree and athletic eligibility. Some junior colleges offer financial support for athletes. If you have the desire to play college football, please contact Coach Zajac. He will discuss the possibilities with you and your family. He will assist you in the recruiting process. It is important that you begin to consider possibilities no later than your junior year. Off Season Camps, Clinics, etc. Many out of season camps and clinics are available for those who wish to participate in them and continue to develop their football techniques, fundamentals, and skills. These opportunities are valuable as they expose players to high levels of competition and varied coaching philosophies. Most off season camps are held on college campuses thus providing college coaches an opportunity to evaluate high schools players. If you have questions about camps, clinics, or any other off season opportunity to develop your football skills, please contact Coach Zajac. The entire football coaching staff believes that athletes should be involved in a variety of programs at Wahlert Catholic High School. Off season work in football should never take priority over participation in other sports and other activities like theater, band, choir, etc. It is imperative that all athletes, regardless of grade, participate in the offseason strength and conditioning program. The coaching staff will develop a thorough program for all athletes, regardless of age and skill level. Technique and safety are of the utmost importance and every player will not be allowed to lift without a coach checking their technique. If a player does not participate in the offseason strength and conditioning program (or is inconsistent in his attendance at the same), he is at further risk of injury and will not be prepared to contribute to the team. Communication Great teams communicate well. It is important that everyone feels free to communicate in a positive manner with each other. Support, encouragement, and belief in one another is expected and anticipated in all that is done. Be sure to include teammates in all of the activities in which team members participate. As mentioned previously, parents please encourage your son to handle conflict in an assertive and positive manner. Allowing conflict, trouble, or any concern to fester by keeping quiet is the easiest way create divisiveness and does not benefit the team. Speaking behind the backs of teammates or coaches creates the same toxic environment. Teams that have these pockets of divisiveness are not unified, do not work well together, and get themselves beat on game day. Social Media There is no way for us to monitor the myriad forms of social media available to our players. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. are great ways to connect with friends, meet new people, and share experiences. With that, understand that any written message, Facebook status update, tweet, or picture, once posted to the Internet, never goes away! Parents, please encourage your son to think about what they choose to post on the Internet. Players, if you wouldn’t want your mother or grandmother to see what you want to post, then you shouldn’t put it out there! You can follow Wahlert Catholic Golden Eagle Football on our website, Facebook & Twitter: Website: www.wahlertcatholicfootball.com Twitter: https://twitter.com/wchsfootball1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wchsgoldeneaglefootball Have Fun! No matter how important we think the game is, we must remember that it is just a game. Football is highly competitive, time intensive, and the game must be played with emotion. Taking all of this into account, we still must remember that is just a game! We do not want to lose but we play the game because we enjoy it. Treat the sport as a diversion from the pressures of our lives. It is not meant to add pressure. If a player ever feels that playing football is adding undue pressure, please set up a time to meet with a coach about it. When school ends each day, treat the two hours of football as a time to have fun! You will work hard, you will practice hard, you will be held accountable, and you will learn what it takes to be a part of a TEAM! The intangible lessons offered by the game of football are immeasurable and will serve you well when you leave Wahlert Catholic High School as a Golden Eagle graduate! Parent & Player Acknowledgement As parent(s) of ____________________________________________________, I (we) have read and understand the information in the WCHS GOLDEN EAGLES FOOTBALL – PARENT/PLAYER HANDBOOK. Date ______________________________________ Parent(s) Signature(s) ___________________________________________________________________ As the son of _________________________________________________________, I have read and understand the information in the WCHS GOLDEN EAGLES FOOTBALL – PARENT/PLAYER HANDBOOK. Date ______________________________________ Player Signature _________________________________________________________ -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Please explain something about your son (unrelated to athletics) which will help us know and understand him better: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________
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