athletic handbook - trinity high school...2020/07/03 · ad summum bonum | “to the highest...

Trinity High School Athletic Handbook | 2019-2020

Ad Summum Bonum | “To the Highest Good”

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Trinity High School

2020-2021

Handbook Athletic

3601 Simpson Ferry Road, Camp Hill, Pennsylvania 17011 717-761-1116 | f. 717-761-7309


Ad Summum Bonum | “To the Highest Good”

TABLE OF CONTENTS Athletic Department Personnel……………………………………………………………………………. 1 Overview……………………………………………………………………………….………………….. 1 Statement of Philosophy…………………………………………………………………………………… 1 Athlete Expectations……………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 Objectives of Athletic Participation………………………………………………………………………. 2

Eligibility for Interscholastic Participation……………………………………………………………….. 2 Academic Requirements………………………………………………………………………………….. 2 Out-of-Season Workouts………………………………………………………………………………… 2 Team Responsibilities……………………………………………………………………………………. 3 Return to Play……………………………………………………………………………………………. 3 School Discipline and Attendance ............................................................................................................................. 3 Athletic Discipline ........................................................................................................................................................ 3

Parent/Guardian and Spectator Expectations .............................................................................................................. 3 Parent/Guardian Responsibilities .............................................................................................................................. 3 Spectator Responsibilities ............................................................................................................................................ 3

Coach Expectations ........................................................................................................................................................... 4 Coach Conduct .............................................................................................................................................................. 4 Coaching Guidelines ..................................................................................................................................................... 4

Communication with the School ..................................................................................................................................... 5 Parental Concerns ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

Preseason Requirements ................................................................................................................................................... 5 Preparticipation Physical as defined by the PIAA .................................................................................................... 5 Physician Recertification .............................................................................................................................................. 6

Concussion Policy.............................................................................................................................................................. 6 Return-to-Learn Protocol ............................................................................................................................................ 7

Miscellaneous Issues .......................................................................................................................................................... 9 School Equipment......................................................................................................................................................... 9 Travel .............................................................................................................................................................................. 9

Appendix A: Catholic School Parents Memorandum of Understanding .................................................................. 10 Appendix B: Coaches’ Frequently Asked Questions .................................................................................................... 11 Appendix C: Resocialization of Sport Recommendations for Coronavirus ............................................................. 13

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Ad Summum Bonum | “To the Highest Good” 1

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL

Athletic Director Gary Bricker Assistant Athletic Director Terrence Mull Athletic Trainer Stephanie Arnold

OVERVIEW Trinity High School believes in the positive effects athletic competition has on character development and leader-ship building. We make every effort to provide the best possible programs for our students; physical, mental, so-cial, emotional, spiritual, and moral development will be our guiding principles. This is in accordance with the mot-to of Trinity High School: “Ad Summum Bonum, To the Highest Good.” The purpose of this handbook is to establish consistency and appropriate documentation protecting our coach, volunteer, and athlete relationships. Any questions regarding policies and procedures pertaining to the Athletic De-partment, its staff, volunteers, or guidelines should be directed to the Athletic Director. This handbook is posted on the school website. Any changes will be updated upon approval of the school admin-istration. Individual hard copies will not be distributed. This will maintain the integrity and currency of the docu-ment for the entire Trinity community.

STATEMENT OF PHILOSOPHY • Athletics are activities that demonstrate the God-given skills of all participants. • In athletic participation, we strive to develop character, leadership, self-esteem, discipline, and teamwork. • Every student who participates in Trinity athletics is expected to adhere to the highest expectations when it

comes to school pride and sportsmanship. • We encourage students to participate in as much of the Trinity High School experience as possible, regardless

of ability. • Winning can be an enjoyable and rewarding accomplishment. However, at no time will winning supersede the

stated goals and purposes of Trinity High School.

Girls Soccer Terry Mull Boys Soccer Dan Gustafson Softball Glenn Reinhardt Swimming & Diving Samantha Shirtliff Boys Tennis Tony Cooper Girls Tennis Tony Cooper Track & Field Chris Pushart Volleyball John Barrick Wrestling Joe Perretta

Baseball Chris Cap Boys Basketball Larry Kostelac Jr. Girls Basketball Kristi Britten Cheerleading Christine Geisel Cross Country Bob Gruschow Football Todd Ryan Golf Chris Heisey Boys Lacrosse Dave Heisey Girls Lacrosse Alanna Stuart



ATHLETE EXPECTATIONS All athletes participating in the Athletic Department programs of Trinity High School are expected uphold the highest degree of discipline, sportsmanship, and academic standing. Athletes are expected to represent Trinity High School in a positive manner in accordance with school spirit and mutual respect for their opponents. Partici-pation in athletics at Trinity High School is a privilege. All who participate should strive to conduct themselves as good citizens and representatives of Trinity High School. Those who choose to participate make sacrifices both as individuals and teammates, and the establishment of priorities will assist in achieving team and individual goals. Objectives of Athletic Participation

• To improve knowledge and skill.

• To improve physical development and habits.

• To create lasting bonds with team members.

• To develop lasting respect for opponents.

• To exemplify good sportsmanship and fair play.

• To develop self-discipline.

• To develop the necessary skills for cooperation and teamwork.

• To improve confidence and self-esteem.

• To represent God, family, self, and Trinity High School with pride.

Eligibility for Interscholastic Participation

Athletes are to exemplify Christian standards and school policies through their lifestyles. Failure to abide by the school’s Code of Conduct or academic eligibility guidelines may constitute ineligibility. Academic Requirements

• Students are expected to maintain passing grades in all subjects. Athletes will receive weekly academic eligibility checks in accordance with PIAA regulations. Student-athletes who register failing grades in two subjects will be considered ineligible for athletic participation for one week beginning on Sunday.

• Students on the Weekly Academic Eligibility List are required to attend 10th Period Study Hall. Failure to do so could result in an extension of ineligibility period.

• Quarter/Semester Failures will result in the following: • 2 courses – 15 school days after receipt of report card • 3 or more courses – 20 school days starting the day after receipt of report card

Out-of-Season Workouts

Athletes are encouraged to attend all out-of-season workouts in preparation of the coming season. These workouts are not mandatory, but every effort should be made to attend. However, in-season athletes are not permitted to attend out-of-season workouts unless they have acquired the approval of the in-season coach. Coaches are not permitted to incorporate these students in workouts, and students who do not follow this policy could be deemed ineligible for that sport for the next season.



Team Responsibilities Athletes will be considered permanently rostered for a sport after the first competition. Whether a student leaves voluntarily or is removed for disciplinary reasons after this point, the student may be deemed ineligible for the next competitive season. Students will not be allowed to participate in out-of-season workouts or practice until their suspension is completed. Return to Play The final approval for return to competition will come from the Athletic Trainer. Physician clearance is needed in most injury situations. However, the Trainer, along with the Athletic Director, will be the final voice School Discipline and Attendance

• Students under suspension are barred from practice or competition on the day(s) of suspension. • Students must be present in school by 9:00 a.m. to participate in practice or competition on school days. Athletic Discipline Actions deemed by the school administration, coaching staff or school staff to be disrespectful, unsportsmanlike or malicious may result in player consequences.

PARENT/GUARDIAN AND SPECTATOR EXPECTATIONS

Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Parents/Guardians should encourage athletes to keep their priorities in order. After parents allow a students to participate on a team, the team counts on the students to attend all practices and competitions to the best of their ability. Without practice, a team can never achieve a better skill level. Therefore, it is the family’s responsibility to ensure a student’s attendance. Parents/Guardians are expected to support the coaching staff and their decisions. Undermining a coach’s authority is detrimental to the success of the team. Parents/Guardian will treat opposing coaches, referees, officials, and players with respect at all times. Proper care should be given to Athletic Department equipment/uniforms. Lost items are the financial responsibil-ity of the parent/guardian. Please refer to Appendix A for Diocesan expectations Spectator Responsibilities

Spectators should treat the referees, opposing coaches, players, and officials in a respectful, Christlike manner. Spectators should remember that their actions are a witness to the Trinity school community. Spectators should exhort our players and teams in a positive manner. The athletic programs of Trinity High School are designed to provide a meaningful educational and spiritual experience for all who participate.



COACH EXPECTATIONS The leadership of the coaches should reflect the proper character, based on example and attitudes, to the gifts of Trinity’s students within our mission. Winning will always be stressed, but not at the expense of teaching the game properly or lowering any moral, legal, academic, or spiritual standard established by the school. Any person wishing to participate as a coach or volunteer within Trinity’s athletic programs must complete all background checks of the Youth Protection Program of the Diocese of Harrisburg. Coaching can be a very difficult but rewarding experience. Involving experienced and knowledgeable indi-viduals in Trinity’s athletic programs is essential to the success of each team. Head coaches and their assis-tants are representatives of Trinity High School; their behavior, attitude, and approach to teaching the sport should reflect the mission and goals of Trinity at all times. Coach Conduct

Any disciplinary actions taken by an official against a Trinity High School coach (i.e. technical fouls, un-sportsmanlike conduct, ejection, etc.) will result in an informal inquiry and discussion of the event with the Athletic Director. Repeated violations will result in a formal meeting with the Athletic Director and the Principal.

Coaching Guidelines

All head coaches, assistant coaches, and volunteers will adhere to the following: • The coaching staff’s behavior in practice and during competition should reflect the Christian principles

of the school. • The coaching staff should strive to take advantage of every teaching moment in a positive and produc-

tive manner. • All coaching staff members are expected to treat referees, officials, opposing coaches and players, and

their own coaching colleagues and players with respect and dignity. • All coaching staff members will communicate early and effectively with players and parents whenever

behavioral/personal problems are identified. • All coaching staff members will adhere to the highest ethical standards. Fair play and sportsmanship

are not optional; they are required. • All supplemental rules and regulations must have the prior approval of the Athletic Director. • All head coaches are expected to attend pre- and postseason meetings with the Athletic Director, or

provide appropriate representation. • All coaches are required to attain or maintain CPR Certification before beginning their coaching du-

ties. A copy of the proper documentation must be on file with the Athletic Director before coaching duties may begin.

• All coaches must complete Concussion, Sudden Cardiac Arrest, and Heat Acclimation training online prior to their seasons.

• At the start of the season, head coaches should communicate to their teams the requirements to earn Varsity and Junior Varsity letters.

• Coaching staff members are responsible for the cleanliness of their respective locker rooms, the care of all equipment, and the use of all facilities (including turning out lights and making sure the building is locked).

• A member of the coaching staff must be present with students after practices or contests until the last student is picked up.



COMMUNICATION WITH THE SCHOOL

Parental Concerns

It is the parents’/guardians’ responsibility to address concerns about their child with the head coach in a timely and appropriate manner. Suitable discussions with a head coach include: • The treatment of their child, psychologically and/or physically • Concerns about the child’s behavior • Advance notice of schedule conflicts • Ways to help their child improve The following matters are inappropriate topics of discussion: • Other players • Varsity/Junior Varsity placement • Playing time • Team strategy/play calling It is never acceptable to address issues with the coaching staff prior too or immediately after a contest. These can be emotional times for all. Meetings at this time usually do not work well. If a parent has a concern, the parent should encourage the student to talk to the coach about the concern. If the matter is not settled, the parent should contact the coach to set up a time to discuss the situation. If this discussion does not provide a satisfactory resolu-tion, the parent should contact the Athletic Director. Only after these initial steps are taken should the Principal be involved. Following the chain of command is important to maintaining transparency and due respect.

PRESEASON REQUIREMENTS

Preparticipation Physical as defined by the PIAA

Students are eligible only if they have completed a comprehensive initial preparticipation physical evaluation (“CIPPE”) performed by an Authorized Medical Examiner (as that term is defined in the GLOSSARY of the PI-AA By-Laws) before their first sport season’s first practice of that school year.

Wrestlers must also obtain from an Authorized Medical Examiner, no earlier than six weeks prior to the first Regu-lar Season Contest day and no later than the Monday preceding the first Regular Season Contest day of the wres-tling season, a certification of the minimum wrestling weight at which they may wrestle during that season.

In all cases, an Authorized Medical Examiner must certify, on the PIAA CIPPE form, as to the student’s physical fitness to participate in Practices, Inter-School Practices, Scrimmages, and/or Contests in the particular sport(s) involved. A CIPPE may be performed no earlier than June 1st; and, regardless of when performed during the school year, remains effective only until the next May 31.

Pennsylvania Department of Health requires all students participating in interscholastic athletics to provide the Sudden Cardiac Arrest Acknowledgment of Receipt and Review Form prior to the first practice.

All Preparticipation Physical forms are available on the school website or in Trinity’s Main Office.

All students will be required to pass a preseason fitness test administered by the Athletic Trainer prior to the begin-ning of practice for each season of participation. Students must have all documentation completed and filed with the Athletic Trainer prior to testing.



Physician Recertification

Trinity High School requires that all students obtain a recertification to participate in additional sports in the same academic year. All Re-Certification forms are available on the website “Shamrock Athleics” (www.shamrockathletics.org) under “Sports Registration” or in Trinity’s Main Office.

CONCUSSION POLICY Trinity High School takes seriously the physical, emotional, and academic consequences of concussions. We strongly encourage students who may have sustained a concussion to see a physician who specializes in treatment of concussions and head trauma, and we work with those physicians to help students fully recover so that they may not only return to play but also fully access their academic course of study. Of primary importance in recovery of head injury is rest. Therefore, our first suggestion for students is to remain at home for at least two days after sustaining a concussion. That time at home should be spent away from studies and all electronic screens (computers, televisions, cell phones, tablets, etc.). Once a student has been seen by a concussion specialist: • The student should be given a list of suggested academic accommodations to present to the school. • The school, through the Director of Pupil Services (Instructional Support), will create a Return-to-

Learn Protocol that will be shared with all the student’s teachers. • Should the accommodations suggest extended time on assignments and tests, the student will have all

study halls moved to the Instructional Support Classroom. This move is temporary; the student will return to regular study hall/commons after clearance of the concussion and after all back academic work has been completed.

During the time the student is under a Return-to-Learn Protocol, the following additional Trinity require-ments will be in place. These requirements cannot be negated by a doctor’s suggested accommodations. • The recovering student will be encouraged to go to the nurse’s suite for a short rest period during

study halls/commons and for the last 15-20 minutes of lunch. • The recovering student will be required to eat lunch outside of the cafeteria. The level of noise and

amount of light in the cafeteria can cause symptoms to return or get worse. A separate table will be set up outside of the lunch lines, and the student can invite friends to eat at that table.

• The recovering student will not be permitted to attend games or practices until the student can attend full days of school for at least five days in a row. Outside practices in the sun or indoor practices with excessive noise can cause symptoms to return or get worse. Additionally, the student should be leav-ing school at the end of the school day to go home to rest. Adequate rest is the only way a concussion can improve

• The recovering student will not be permitted to attend any school sponsored dances, including THON. Flashing lights, loud music, and the length of the event could make symptoms worse, thus prolonging recovery

• The recovering student will not be permitted to attend Kairos. The intensity of the program, includ-ing later evenings and few chances for the student to rest quietly, does not promote an environment of recovery and will prolong the symptoms.

• Student participation in field trips may be restricted. The type of field trip, location, duration and physical activity (including amount of expected walking) will be evaluated with the teacher sponsoring the field trip to determine if such an activity could cause symptoms to be exacerbated.



STAGE PROGRESSION OF STAGES

DESCRIPTION OF STAGES SCHOOL BASED INTERVENTION/ RETURN TO LEARN PROTOCOL

1 HOME— Rest (24-48 hours)

• Limit cognitive/physical exertion.

• Limit computer, texting, video games, etc.

• No homework. • Stay at home, no school . • No driving.

• Encourage student to rest brain and body as pre-scribed by medical professional.

• Medical documentation of concussion required for school.

• No school expectations regarding academic out-put.

2 HOME—Light Mental Activity

Cognitive activity as tolerated; aim for 30- minute periods • Take frequent breaks. • Stay at home. • Limited peer contact. • No driving.

NOTE: Timeframe for returning to school will vary, according to the student’s symptoms. The student does not need to be 100% symptom-free to com-mence a part-time return to school.

3 SCHOOL— Part-Time Max. Learning Accommodations Shortened Day/Schedule Built-in Breaks

Required meeting with Di-rector of Pupil Services (IS) upon return • Provide quiet place for

scheduled cognitive rest. • No classroom or standard-

ized testing. • No homework. • Provide extra time and

adapt assignments. • Limited school-based, ex-

tracurricular activities, to provide opportunities for social contact (club activity meetings).

• RTL plan implemented. • School staff provided with written RTL plan. • Student temporarily removed from study hall and

assigned to Instructional Support. • Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of RTL plan

as needed. • Monitor student’s emotional adjustment. • Emphasis on in-school learning, as rest is neces-

sary once outside of school.. • Eliminate non-essential work so student focuses

on key Prescribed Learning Outcomes only. • Consider exemption from assemblies and classes

such as Band/Choir/ Woodwork/Mechanics, due to excessive noise and safety concerns.

• Student will have assigned area for lunch (outside cafeteria).

• No attendance at sporting events, dances, THON.

NOTE: If a student is not progressing beyond Stage 3 after a 3-week period, the student’s fami-ly will be contacted for a meeting.

Student to progress to next stage when able to manage three (3) consecutive classes without cognitive exertion that exacerbates symptoms.

Return-to-Learn Protocol



4 SCHOOL— Part-Time • Moderate Learning

Accommodations. • Time spent at school

increased.

• No standardized testing. • Limited classroom testing

with one (1) test per day. • Moderate decrease of extra

time and adaptation of as-signments.

• Continued access to Instruc-tional Support, as required.

• Homework up to 30 minutes daily.

• Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of RTL plan as needed.

• Monitor student’s emotional adjustment. • Arrange access to a separate, quiet space

for testing to limit distractions. NOTE: If a student is not progressing beyond Stage 4 after a 6-week period, the student’s family will be contacted for a follow-up meeting.

Student to progress to next stage when able to manage four (4) classes without cognitive exertion without exacerbat-ing symptoms.

5 SCHOOL— Full-Time • Minimal Learning Ac-commodations. • Full-time attendance at school.

• No standardized testing. • Classroom testing with adap-

tations: 2 tests per day; con-tinued decrease of extra time and adaptation of assign-ments.

• Gradually increase amount of homework (up to 60 minutes daily).

• Continued increase in partici-pation of school-based, ex-tracurricular activities.

• Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of RTL plan as needed.

• Construct a plan to finish completing essential missed academic work, and keep stress levels low.

• Accommodations are removed when student can function fully without them.

• Monitor student’s emotional adjustment. • Student may begin attending assemblies,

practices (after five [5] full days of school), and classes previously restricted due to noise (eg. Band/Choir/Woodwork/Mechanics).

Student to progress to next stage when able to attend school full-time and without learning accommodations.

6 • Attends all classes. • Full homework. • Full extracurricular

involvement. • Resumes all previously

restricted testing activ-ities.

• Attends all classes. • Full homework. • Full extracurricular involve-

ment. • Resumes all previously re-

stricted testing activities.

• Upon completion of Return-to-Play(RTP) protocol, student may participate in PE.

• Student will have two (2) weeks to com-plete any makeup work after RTP proto-col has been completed and will be re-leased from IS to regular study hall.

REMEMBER: Tolerance and progression is individual – all concussions are different. • Students may start at any stage as symptoms dictate and may remain at that step as long as needed or return to

previous stage if symptoms worsen. • Exacerbation of symptoms may prolong concussion recovery. • Time intervals used for progression through stages should be used as a guide only



MISCELLANEOUS ISSUES School Equipment

Students are responsible for all equipment issued to them. Athletic uniforms are supplied for the sole pur-pose of athletic participation. This equipment is not to be used for any other purpose. When the season is over, all equipment is to be returned according to the posted dates. Failure to return equipment in a timely manner will result in late fees being assessed. Due respect should be given to school-owned equipment. Re-member, athletic participation is a privilege; lack of respect for equipment and facilities could result in a sus-pension of that privilege. Students are not permitted to begin the next season until all equipment responsi-bilities are completed. Travel

Students are expected to ride the bus to and from athletic events. From time to time, due to proximity, par-ents may opt to drive their student home from the event site. In this case, a written excuse form should be handed to the head coach prior to departing Trinity. Parents should be mindful of the responsibility head coaches have for the safe transportation of the students and avoid confusion in these this situations if at all possible. As with school-owned equipment, students should show the utmost respect for bus drivers and buses. Lack of respect for either may result in the suspension or dismissal from the team. Remember this is a privilege.



APPENDIX A

CATHOLIC SCHOOL PARENTS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING As a parent/guardian of a student in a Catholic school I understand and affirm the following: • The primary purpose of a Catholic school education is to form students in the values of Jesus Christ

and the teachings of the Catholic Church. • Catholic schools are distinctive religious education institutions operated as programs of the Catholic

Church; they are not private schools but are administered and supported by the sponsoring parishes and the Diocese of Harrisburg.

• Attending a Catholic school is a privilege, not a right. • While academic excellence and involvement in extracurricular activity (i.e., sports, clubs, etc.) are im-

portant, fidelity to the Catholic identity of the school is the fundamental priority. • Trinity High School and its administration have the responsibility to ensure that Catholic values and

moral integrity permeate every facet of the school’s life and activity. • In all questions involving faith, morals, faith teaching, and Church law, the final determination rests

with the leadership of the Diocese of Harrisburg.

As a parent/guardian desiring to enroll my child in a Catholic school, I accept this memorandum of un-derstanding, I pledge support for the Catholic identity and mission of this school, and, by enrolling my child, I commit myself to uphold all the principles and policies that govern a Catholic school.



APPENDIX B

COACHES’ FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How does Trinity fill assistant coaching positions? What is the process? Varsity head coaches recruit and make selections for assistant coaching positions. These selections must be approved by the Athletic Director. No coach or volunteer may work with Trinity students prior to completing the clearance process mandated by the Diocese of Harrisburg and the State of Pennsylvania. Do coaches have mailboxes for correspondence? Where do they put correspondence for the Athletic Director? Coaches do not have individual mailboxes. The Athletic Director has a mailbox in the Main Office for all ath-letic correspondence. Where do coaches put bills for approval and/or payment? All bills should be given to the Athletic Director as soon as received. The Athletic Director will then submit the bills to the Business Office. How are uniforms distributed? The Athletic Director distributes uniforms at the start of each season and collects them at the season’s conclu-sion. What is the process for ordering new uniforms? What is the timeline for rotation, and how are new uniform styles selected? Uniforms are ordered on a five-year rotation. The Athletic Director selects the styles, brands, and vendors. Coaches may offer suggestions. Who puts in contest results online and distributes them to local media at the end of contests? The Athletic Director posts scores for all games to shamrockathletics.org. Local media outlets receive the scores from this site. Who handles the responsibilities of the concession stand? Trinity employs a Concession Stand Manager, who is supervised by the Athletic Director. The Team Parent for each athletic team works to recruit and staff the concession stand on a rotating basis. Lack of volunteers may cause the concession stand to be closed for a given game. Who is responsible for staffing game-day volunteers (clock, etc.)? The Athletic Director works with Team Parents to recruit game-day volunteers. Are coaches expected to attend the Trinity Athletic Association meetings? Coaches are welcome to attend all Athletic Association meetings as they fit with the coaches’ schedules. Coaches are included in the email distribution list for communications from the Athletic Association. What is the “bad weather” procedure on game days? For most sports, the Athletic Director determines what happens on home game days in the event of bad weather. For baseball and softball, officials from Lower Allen Township determine what happens on home game days with bad weather. The Athletic Director notifies students during school with special announce-ments and also notifies coaches by phone or text.



What is the procedure when a bus doesn't arrive for away games? Head Coaches should call the Athletic Director first in such cases. Coaches may also call Rohrer Bus at 1-888-287-1538 during business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.). For weekend games, the Athletic Director will give coaches direct numbers for bus drivers. How many athletes can ride on each bus (by sport), and how many buses will be ordered? The Athletic Director orders buses for the teams for away games. The Athletic Director requests buses of par-ticular sizes, but bus sizes are not guaranteed by the bus company. Accommodations for bus size and the num-ber of buses are made seasonally based on the size of the athletic teams. Currently, football and track and field are the only two teams for which two buses are ordered. Football cheerleaders also attend away games. What is the process for determining who earns Varsity and Junior Varsity letters? What do athletes re-ceive if they earn subsequent varsity letters? Are other awards available? Head coaches should communicate with their players all requirements necessary to earn a Varsity or Junior Varsity letter. These will vary by sport. The Athletic Director records the awarding of all letters in Trinity’s da-tabase. Students receive pins for subsequent varsity letters earned after the first. Trinity presents a special award at the Senior Awards Assembly to any student-athlete who has earned seven (7) or more varsity letters. PIAA District 3 also presents special sportsmanship awards, given at the Senior Awards Assembly, to one female and one male student. These students are selected by the Athletic Director in consultation with the Principal. PIAA District 3 also presents academic awards to qualified athletes at the Senior Awards Assembly. Head Coaches should take great care of the equipment and the facility at all times. Coaching staff members must turn out all lights and make sure the facility is secure before leaving. Coaching staff members should also be mindful of after practices or games, a member of the coaching staff must remain on-site until all students have been picked up.



Appendix C: Resocialization of Sports Recommendations Updated July 3, 2020 INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic has presented athletics across the world with a myriad of challenges. The COVID-19 virus is a highly contagious illness that primarily attacks the upper respiratory system. The virus that causes COVID-19 can infect people of all ages. Research from the Centers for Disease Control, among others, has found that, while children do get infected by COVID-19, relatively few children with COVID-19 are hospital-ized. However, some severe outcomes have been reported in children, and a child with a mild or even asymp-tomatic case of COVID-19 can spread the infection to others who may be far more vulnerable. While it is not possible to eliminate all risk of furthering the spread of COVID-19, current science suggests there are many steps schools can take to reduce the risks to students, coaches, and their families. Trinity High School will take the necessary precautions and recommendations from the federal, state, and local governments, CDC, PA DOH, as well as the NFHS and PIAA. Trinity High School realizes the knowledge regarding COVID-19 is constantly changing as new information and treatments become available. These rec-ommendations will be adjusted as needed as new information becomes available in order to decrease the risk of exposure for our staff, students, and spectators. RECOMMENDATIONS The following recommendations are for ALL PHASES for Junior and Senior High Athletics. Trinity High School will: •Screen athletes, coaches, and staff for COVID- 19 symptoms prior to any practice, event, or team meeting.

The type of screening will depend upon the available resources and the Phase level. •Promote healthy hygiene practices such as hand washing (20 seconds with warm water and soap) and the

wearing face coverings as feasible by employees and adult volunteers. (Face coverings are recommended to help decrease potential exposure to COVID-19 respiratory droplets by an infected individual. Face cover-ings will not be used for athletes while practicing or competing.) Hand Sanitizer will be available for team use as resources allow.

•Intensify cleaning, disinfection, and ventilation in all facilities. •Encourage social distancing through increased spacing, small groups, and limited mixing between groups

wherever feasible. •Educate athletes, coaches, and staff on health and safety protocols. •Insist that anyone who is sick stay home. •Plan in place if a student or employee gets sick •Regularly communicate and monitor developments with local authorities, employees, and families regarding

cases, exposures, and updates to policies and procedures. •Guard against the sharing of water bottles and other equipment for hydration. Athletes and coaches MUST

provide their own water bottles. •Use PPE (gloves, masks, eye protection) as needed and as warranted by situations or as determined by local/

state governments. • Identify staff and students who may be at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19 due to underlying

medical conditions. (Please see CDC’s “People Who are at a Higher Risk for Severe Illness”. CLASSIFICATION OF SPORTS AND PHASES

High Risk: Sports that involve close, sustained contact between participants, lack of significant protective



barriers, and high probability that respiratory particles will be transmitted between participants. Examples in-clude football and wrestling.

Moderate Risk: Sports that involve close, sustained contact, but with protective equipment in place that may reduce the likelihood of respiratory particle transmission between participants OR intermittent close contact OR group sports that use equipment that cannot be cleaned between participants. Examples include basket-ball, volleyball, baseball, softball, soccer, tennis, pole vault, high jump, long jump, and 7-on-7 football.

Low Risk: Sports that can be done with social distancing or individually with no sharing of equipment or with the ability to clean the equipment between uses by competitors. Examples include running events, cross-country, throwing events, swimming, golf, weightlifting, and sideline cheerleading and dance.

** High/Moderate Risk Sports may move to a Low Risk category with non-contact modifications.

Phase 1 (PA State Yellow) All school facilities remain closed as per PA State Guidelines. Athletes and coaches may communicate via online meetings (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.). Athletes may participate in home workouts, including strength and conditioning. Athletes and coaches should abide by guidelines set forth by the local and state governments. Team attendance will be recorded and reported to the Athletic Director.

Phase 2 (PA State Green) Pre-workout/Contest Screening: All coaches and students will be screened for signs/symptoms of COVID-19 prior to a workout. Screen-

ings may include a temperature check. (Please see Appendix for COVID-19 Screening Form.) Any person who has COVID-19 symptoms will not be allowed to participate in practice/games, and

should contact a primary care physician or another appropriate health-care provider. Team attendance should be recorded and reported to the Athletic Director. Limitations on Gatherings: As per State and Local Guidelines. When not directly participating in practices or contests, social distancing should be considered and applied

as feasible. Facilities Cleaning: Adequate cleaning schedules should be created and implemented for all athletic facilities to mitigate any

communicable disease. Athletic facilities should be cleaned prior to arrival and post workouts and team gatherings; high-touch

areas should be cleaned more often. Weight Room equipment should be wiped down after each individual’s use. Appropriate clothing/shoes should be worn at all times in the Weight Room to minimize sweat from

transmitting onto equipment surfaces. Physical Activity and Athletic Equipment: Low, Moderate, and High Risk practices and competitions may begin (as per State, Local, and PIAA

Guidelines). Students should refrain from sharing clothing/towels, which should be washed after each practice



(including all pinnies). Athletic equipment that may be used by multiple individuals (balls, shields, tackling dummies, shot put, dis-

cus, pole vault, etc.) should be cleaned intermittently during practice and events as deemed necessary. Hand sanitizer should be used periodically as resources allow. Spotters for maximum weight lifts should be stationed at each end of the bar. Hydration: Students MUST bring their own water bottle. Water bottles must not be shared. Hydration Stations may be used but MUST be cleaned after every practice/event.

Other Recommendations Transportation: Modifications for student/coach transportation to and from athletic events may be necessary. This

may include: Reducing the number of students/coaches on a bus/van. Using hand sanitizer upon boarding a bus/van. Social distancing on a bus. These potential modifications will be determined by the school, bus companies, PA Department of Educa-

tion, and State and Local governments. Social Distancing during Contests/Events/Activities:

Appropriate social distancing will need be maintained on sidelines and benches during contests and events, as deemed necessary by the school, PIAA, and State and Local governments. Please consider using tape or paint as a guide for students and coaches.

Who should be allowed at events? People will be grouped into tiers from essential to non-essential to determine who will be allowed at events:

Tier 1 (Essential) – Athletes, coaches, officials, event staff, medical staff, and security. Tier 2 (Preferred) – Media personnel. Tier 3 (Non-essential) – Spectators and vendors.

Only Tier 1 and 2 personnel will be allowed to attend events until State and Local governments lift re-

strictions on mass gatherings. Changes to seating capacity and social distancing may be necessary for each venue facility and will be deter-

mined as more recommendations are released by State and Local governments.

Overnight/Out of State Events/Events in COVID-19 Hot Spots: Trinity High School will not allow overnight or out-of-state events at this time.

POSITIVE CASES AND COACHES, STAFF, OR ATHLETES SHOWING COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

What are the signs and symptoms of COVID-19? Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. The symptoms may range from mild to severe. (Please see the CDC Fact Sheet in the Appendix.) Symptoms may include: Fever or chills Cough Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing Fatigue



Muscle or body aches Headache New loss of taste or smell Sore throat Congestion or runny nose Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea What to do if you are sick? If you are sick with COVID-19 or think you are infected with the virus:

•STAY AT HOME. It is essential that you take steps to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home or community.

•Call your healthcare provider for medical advice immediately. •Notify the school’s COVID-19 coordinator and/or Athletic Director immediately. •It will be determined if others who may have been exposed (such as students, coaches, and staff) need to be no-

tified, isolated, and/or monitored for symptoms. •If a positive case of COVID-19 is diagnosed, contact tracing will be implemented with the assistance of local

health professionals and the CDC/PA DOH. Please see Information in the Appendix.

What to do if a student or staff member becomes ill with COVID-19 symptoms during practice, event, or transportation to/from an event? Every effort will be made to isolate the ill individual from others, until the student or staff member can leave

the school or event. If student becomes ill, the school will contact parents/guardians immediately, and arrangements will be made

for the student to be picked up. Any ill individual must contact a physician or appropriate healthcare professional for direction.

Return of student or staff to athletics following a COVID-19 diagnosis?

Student or staff should have medical clearance from their physician or appropriate healthcare profession-al, determined to be non-contagious, Fever free (without fever-reducing medicine), improvement in respiratory symptoms (cough, shortness of breath), no vomiting or diarrhea.

EDUCATION

Staff, coaches, parents, and athletes will be educated on the following (through posters, flyers, meetings, emails, phone calls):

COVID-19 signs and symptoms. Proper ways to limit exposure to COVID-19 (hand washing, cough in your elbow, disinfecting touched sur-

faces, social distancing, avoiding touching eyes, nose, face and mouth, no spitting, gum chewing, etc.). Avoiding handshakes/celebrations (including high fives, fist/elbow bumps, chest bumps, hugging), etc. The content of this Return to Sport Guidelines Document Any pertinent COVID-19 information released by State and Local governments, NFHS, and PIAA. Proper student dress for activity. Limit indoor activities and the areas used. Locker room use is not permitted. Facility showers cannot be used. Student athletes should remain with their assigned groups during each workout and during daily workouts to

limit the number of people they come in contact with. No students allowed in training areas without the presence of an athletic trainer.

UPDATE: JULY 3



Please refer to PIAA press release, students should have masks with them at all times and are to wear them when not engaged in activity. Students must wear a mask, or they will be asked to return home. More information about this state-wide policy is available here.

Trinity High School Athletic Department Athlete and Staff COVID-19 Screening

Name: ________________________________________ Date: ___________ Grade: _________ Sports: _______________________________________ Students/Coaches should self-report as deemed necessary prior to each practice/event. Temperature may be taken from a designated trained individual as needed. The other symptoms should be marked as “N” – NO or “Y” Yes answers. For the column “Close Contact” the answer should reflect the following question: Within the past 14 days have you had close contact with someone who is currently sick with suspected or con-firmed COVID-19? (Note: Close contact is defined as within 6ft for more than 10 consecutive minutes, without PPE equipment.) If any responses are “YES”, student will NOT be allowed to practice or compete, and will be asked to leave school grounds. Parent/Guardian will be notified.

https://www.pennlive.com/coronavirus/2020/07/piaa-confirms-athletes-are-not-required-to-wear-face-masks-while-actively-engaged-in-summer-workouts.html



BACKGROUND

Contact tracing is the process of reaching out to anyone who came into close contact with an individual who is positive for COVID-19. Contact tracing helps monitor close contacts for symptoms and to determine if they need to be tested. Contact tracing is a key strategy for preventing the further spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19. WHAT DOES THIS PROCESS LOOK LIKE?

In contact tracing, public health staff work with a case to help them recall everyone they have had close

contact with during the time they were infectious.

Public health staff then inform individuals who have had close contact (e.g. “close contacts”) that they

have potentially been exposed to COVID-19. Close contacts are only told that they may have been

exposed to someone who has COVID-19; they are not told who may have exposed them.

Close contacts are given education, information and support so they understand their risk. They receive

information on what they should do to separate themselves from others who have not been exposed,

how to monitor themselves for illness, and are made aware that they could possibly spread the infec-

tion to others, even if they do not feel sick.

Close contacts will be asked to quarantine themselves and are encouraged to stay home and maintain so-

cial distancing through the end of their infectious period, which is about 14 days, in case they become

sick. They should monitor themselves by checking their temperature twice a day and watch for any

other symptoms of COVID-19. Public health staff will check in with these contacts to make sure they

are self-monitoring and have not developed symptoms.

If a close contact develops symptoms, they should isolate themselves and let public health staff know. The

close contact will be evaluated to see if they need medical care. A test may be necessary unless the indi-vidual is already in a household or long-term care facility with a confirmed case, then the close contact

would be considered a probable case without a test.

WHAT TERMS SHOULD I KNOW WHEN IT COMES TO CONTACT TRACING?

A case is a patient who has been diagnosed with COVID-19. A case should isolate themselves, meaning

they should stay away from other people who are not sick to avoid spreading the illness.

A close contact is an individual who had close contact with a case while the case was infectious. A close

contact should quarantine themselves, meaning they should stay at home to limit community exposure

and self-monitor for symptoms.

A contact of a close contact is an individual who had or continues to have contact with a close contact.

A contact of a close contact should take all regular preventative actions, like washing hands, covering

coughs and sneezes, and cleaning surfaces frequently. A contact of a close contact should be alert for

symptoms.



RESOURCES:

NFHS: Guidance for Opening Up High School Athletics and Activities (per update on May 2020) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Website: cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html “What You Should Know About COVID-19 to Protect Yourself and Others”, “Schools Decision Tree” PA Department of Health Website: health.pa.gov “Coronavirus Symptoms” “What is Contact Tracing” “Phased Re-opening Plan by Governor Wolf” A Guide to Re-Entry to Athletics in Texas Secondary Schools By Jamie Woodall, MPH, LAT, ATC, CPH and Josh Woodall Med, LAT, ATC

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