Our Speech:

• Questionable language or “slang” words will not be tolerated. The athlete will never engage in any language that can be termed "trash talking" or use profanity or questionable slang. Example: In basketball, chants of “air-ball” or screaming while the opponent is on the free-throw line show poor sportsmanship. In baseball, making noise while an opponent is at bat shows poor sportsmanship.
• The athlete will address the coach and the officials with respect. The athlete will address the coach as “Coach” or “Mr., Miss, or Mrs.” and will take concerns or complaints directly to the coach. Insubordination and divisive speech or behavior will not be tolerated. The athlete should address the officials with “Yes, Sir” or “Yes, Ma’am”.
• Never criticize the officials or coaches. These people represent the authority figure, the “supervisor, the parent, the teacher, and the Law”. Obedience to authority is not optional and is not predicated on whether you agree with it. All authority is God-given, and disobedience to authority is disobedience to God.
      
      Colossians 4:6 let your speech always be with grace, seasoned with salt...

Our Relationships:

• Develop relationships and a good rapport with teammates and coaches. God has placed you in this situation for a purpose. You have an opportunity to develop life-long friendships. If sports become all about you, you need to not participate.
• Develop relationships and a good rapport with classmates. Do not attempt to set yourself up on a pedestal. Your classmates will not respect you or support you.
• Develop relationships and a good rapport with students from other schools. Never miss an opportunity to share Jesus Christ with others.

             John 15:12 This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.
 

Our Unity:

• Develop unity within your team. “It is amazing what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit.” John Wooden
• Develop unity within our school family. God has called each one of us to this school. Each of us has different abilities and different roles. Never be jealous or envious of another person’s role. Be busy filling your role.
• Develop unity within the Kingdom. Our opponents are not our enemies. We will compete to win but will treat the opposition with respect and a positive attitude at all times.
                          
  I Corinthians 12:12,13 For as the body is one and has many members, but all the members of that one body, being many, are one body, so also is Christ. For by one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body... 

Our Motives:   

• Be motivated by the Love of God. Live for Him because He died for us.

• Strive for victory in order to glorify God. Athletics is just a means to an end and not an end unto itself.

• Demonstrate Christ in our lives by abiding by the rules of the game in letter and in spirit. Tactics that promote unfair “gamesmanship” will not be tolerated.

• Be committed to excellence. In all areas – faith, practice, academics, and game preparation; Play and act like a CHAMPION!

            I Corinthians 10:31 ...do all to the Glory of God.

Our Behavior:

• The athlete will maintain a good reputation. The athlete’s character will be in good standing with the administration, faculty, staff, and church.
• The athlete will meet all eligibility requirements.
• The athlete will know and understand all requirements. The athlete will know all the expectations of their team and will follow them both in action and in spirit.
• The athlete will show respect for all coaches, trainers, and all staff personnel. This includes the game plans, methods, and philosophies.
• The athlete will show respect for their teammates. The athlete will respect the seriousness of their commitment by attending all practices, meetings, and games as prescribed at the beginning of the season and by working together to accomplish a common goal. Help to hold your teammates accountable for their actions.
• The athlete will demonstrate Christ-like character. Both in and out of the arena, the athlete will show respect in speech and actions for game officials, opponents, and all those associated with our opponents.
• The athlete will never engage in fighting. The athlete will always maintain self-control. Unsportsmanlike conduct penalties will not be tolerated and will have consequences. Consequences include, but are not limited to, suspensions or dismissal from the team.
• The athlete will know and understand our philosophy. The athlete will respect the seriousness of the eternal effects of their responsibilities as they represent themselves, their families, their school, their church, and ultimately, their Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
                          
  I John 2:6 “He who says he abides in Him ought himself also to walk just as He walked.” 

Every student-athlete is a representative of Northwood Academy, the community, their family, and themselves. Their actions, words, and appearance reflect on each of these. Student-athletes are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that honors Christ, demonstrates integrity, and brings pride—not embarrassment—to their school, family, teammates, and community.

Behavior that fails to meet these expectations will not be tolerated. Serious misconduct or repeated violations may result in disciplinary action, including suspension from athletic participation or permanent removal from a team or activity.
 

Conduct in the Classroom and School Community

Northwood Academy believes that successful student-athletes are first and foremost responsible students and positive role models. The discipline, commitment, and work ethic demonstrated in the classroom and throughout the school community are expected to carry over into athletic participation.
Student-athletes are expected to:

• Demonstrate respect for teachers, classmates, staff, and fellow students.
• Give their best effort in the classroom and all school activities.
• Follow school rules and uphold high standards of behavior.
• Exhibit integrity, responsibility, and Christ-like character both on and off campus.

Conduct in Athletic Participation

Student-athletes are expected to compete with integrity, humility, and respect. Whether winning or losing, they should display sportsmanship and honor the efforts of teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and spectators.
Student-athletes are expected to:

• Compete with maximum effort while maintaining self-control.
• Treat opponents, officials, coaches, and spectators with respect.
• Display positive attitudes during practices, competitions, and team activities.
• Avoid any behavior that could negatively impact their team, the athletic program, the school, or the community.Represent Northwood Academy with honor at all times.

Participation in athletics is a privilege, not a right. Student-athletes are expected to uphold these standards at all times. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, including loss of playing privileges, suspension, or dismissal from the team, as determined by the athletic department and school administration.
 

Courage

•     We stand firm with courage in our faith.  (1 Corinthians 16:13)

Honor

• We show respect on and off the field/court.
• We value family at home and on campus.
• We keep God at the center of everything we do. (1 Peter 2:17)

Attitude

• We perform in every practice and competition with a Christ-like attitude. 
  (Romans 15:5)

Respect the Game

• As coaches, we are committed to teaching solid fundamentals, developing leaders, and developing the best schemes for each team’s makeup.
• We will always respect the game as players by giving our best and encouraging others to give their best.
• We will respect the game as fans by modeling Christ and promoting an environment rich in sportsmanship. (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13)

Glorify

• In all that we do, we will work to glorify God. (Psalms 86:12)

Encourage

• We will be great teammates, supportive parents, and coaches. (Romas 12:18)

Relationships

• Relationships built in athletics generate trust, better communication, and a winning attitude, all of which can have a positive effect on our school community. (Philippians 2:5)

Serve

• The goal of our athletic department is to develop student-athletes who not only learn the fundamentals of sport but are also great leaders, well-rounded students, and understand the impact of having a servant’s heart. (2 Samuel 16:19)
   

Consequences for Quitting a Sport During the Season:

• Expectation: Student-athletes are expected to complete the entire season of the sport they have committed to.
  Resolution Process: If a student-athlete needs to quit a sport, they and their parent(s) must meet with the Head Coach, Athletic Director, and/or Principal to discuss the reasons.
• Resolution Attempts: Efforts will be made to find a solution that allows for continued participation.
• Sport Participation Restrictions: If a student-athlete quits one sport, they will not be allowed to participate in another sport until the first team’s season is over.
• Conference Requirement: A conference will be held involving the Athletic Director, the Head Coach of the sport being quit, and the Head Coach of the desired new sport to determine if participation will be allowed.
• Considerations: The decision will consider the welfare of the school's overall athletic program, the involved teams, and the student-athlete's well-being, both short-term and long-term.

Extracurricular Conflicts:

• Encouragement of Involvement: Northwood Academy encourages students to participate in various extracurricular activities based on their interests and skills.
• Conflict Resolution Process: When conflicts arise between extracurricular activities:
  • Head Coaches, Sponsors, Athletic Director, and Fine Arts Director, along with the student and parent(s), will meet.
  • Considerations: Decisions will prioritize the best interests of the student, the school, and the specific team or activity involved.
     

These policies aim to maintain consistency, fairness, and a supportive environment for student-athletes and participants in extracurricular activities at Northwood Academy, ensuring decisions are made with careful consideration of all parties involved.

Absences:

• Students must be present for at least one-half of the school day to participate in extracurricular activities unless justified.
  Approval from the Athletic Director and Principal is required for participation if absent for more than one-half of the school day.

Missed Practices, Games, Team Functions:

• Notification: Student-athletes must contact the Head Coach before missing or being tardy to practices, games, or team functions for the absence to be excused.
• Emergency Situations: In emergencies where contact is not possible, the Head Coach may consider the absence excused.
• Consequences: Consequences for excused and unexcused absences are determined by the Head Coach.

Practices: In-Season

• Philosophy: Emphasizes student-athletes as students first and athletes second.
• Practice Schedule: No mandatory or voluntary practices on Sundays.
• Wednesday Practices: Practice must end by 5:45 p.m., aiming for student-athletes to leave by 6 p.m.

Practices: Off-Season:

• Voluntary Nature: Off-season practices are not mandatory and cannot be a prerequisite for team membership or participation.
• Limitations: SCISA permits off-season practices:
  • Football, Soccer, Baseball, Softball, Track: no more than four (4) athletes present at a time.
  • All other sports: No more than three (3) student-athletes

This policy framework ensures that student-athletes prioritize their academic responsibilities while participating responsibly in extracurricular activities, adhering to structured guidelines for attendance and commitment throughout the school year.

Based on the criteria provided, here's a concise summary of the requirements for student-athletes to participate in JV/Varsity athletic activities at Northwood Academy:

Eligibility Requirements:

• Eligibility status verified by the South Carolina Independent School Association (SCISA) and local requirements of Northwood Academy.
• A student in grades 9-12 must take and pass at least four (4), one unit CORE Courses or any five (5) one-unit courses, in each grading period (6/9/12 week) or semester to be eligible. - Students below the 9th grade must pass four (4) subjects each grading period/semester. - A senior who has met or is meeting all requirements for graduation must pass four (4), one-credit courses each marking period/semester. - A student who is repeating a course for which he/she has previously received credit cannot count this course as one required for eligibility.
• First Semester Academic Eligibility: A student must have earned a minimum of 4 core units or any 5 units of credit from the previous school year to be declared eligible for the First Semester (Fall) of a school year. - Any student who did not receive credit for at least one-half of all courses taken the previous school year cannot be declared eligible until after the successful completion of the 1st Semester. - Block Schedule: At least two units must have been passed during the second semester or summer school. (Example: a student who earned 4 units for the first semester but withdrew/dropped out the 2nd semester shall be declared ineligible for the First Semester). 

Health and Safety Documentation:

• A complete physical examination form must be on file with BigTeams.
• Forms completed for Warning of Inherent Risk as well as the Student/Parent Concussion Awareness Form must be on file with BigTeams.

Medical Releases:

• In the event of injury, a written doctor's medical release must be on file with the Athletic Director, trainer, and Head Coach, clearing the student-athlete for participation.

These requirements ensure that student-athletes are physically fit, informed about health and safety protocols, and covered in case of injury during athletic participation at Northwood Academy. It emphasizes compliance with both state athletic association regulations (SCISA) and school-specific policies to maintain eligibility and safety standards.


 

Students must check with teachers for assignments and tests prior to release, as well as make up missed work.

Checking with Teachers:

• Requirement: Students must check with their teachers for any upcoming assignments and tests before any planned absence or release from school-related activities.
• This ensures students are aware of their academic responsibilities and can plan accordingly to fulfill them.

Making Up Tests and Assignments:

• Policy: It is mandatory for students to make up missed tests and assignments according to the guidelines specified in the school handbook and teacher syllabus.
• This includes understanding the specific timelines and procedures outlined by each teacher for missed work due to absences or other reasons.

Responsibility and Accountability:

• Students are accountable for:
  • Proactively seeking information about missed academic obligations.
  • Adhering to the outlined procedures for making up missed work promptly and responsibly.

Communication and Coordination:

• Teachers will provide clear expectations and instructions regarding missed assignments and tests.
• Students are responsible for following through on these expectations to maintain academic progress and integrity.

By adhering to these guidelines, Northwood Academy ensures that students maintain continuity in their academic progress even in cases of planned absences or necessary accommodations, fostering responsibility and accountability in their academic pursuits.






 

• Transportation for Extracurricular Events:

  • Provided Transportation: The school provides buses for student-athletes to and from events, emphasizing safety.
  • Restrictions on Private Transportation: Student-athletes will not be released to ride in private transportation following contests, except to their parent(s) or legal guardian. Transportation as a team guidelines are at the discretion of the Head Coach.
  • Written Request Requirement: If a parent or legal guardian wishes to allow their student athlete to ride with someone outside their family, they must submit a written request to the Head Coach in advance, which is discouraged except in emergencies.
  • Prohibited Student-to-Student Transportation: Students are not permitted to transport other students to or from athletic events.

• B-Team Sports:

  • Travel Arrangements: Families are responsible for arranging transportation to off-campus events for B-Team activities.

  • Parental Transport: Students may only leave with their parents unless authorized in writing and approved by the Head Coach, front office, and Athletic Director beforehand.

     

• Early Dismissals:

  • Academic Responsibility: Students must check with teachers for assignments and tests prior to early release.
  • Make-up Work: Students are required to make up tests and assignments based on the school's handbook and teacher syllabus.
     

These policies ensure the safety and proper supervision of student-athletes during transportation to and from school events, as well as emphasizing academic responsibility and compliance with school guidelines.

Phones

Phones are a great tool for communication of student athletes and families.  To protect others, there will be no use of cell phones in locker rooms or bathrooms at Northwood Academy.  This is to help with the privacy of other individuals that occupy the space.  All communication and use of devices should be in a common area such as the hallway or outside.  

Social Media

Social media outlets (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, etc.) are a great form of communication for school officials, coaches, parents, and students. However, abuse of these outlets by student-athletes will not be tolerated by the athletic programs of Northwood Academy. This includes derogatory comments toward staff, coaches, students, or stakeholders within Northwood Academy. This policy applies to student-athletes both at and away from school as well as in or out of season. The penalties for violation of this policy will be at the discretion of the Principal and Athletic Director.

• Initial Contact: The athlete should schedule a meeting with their coach in the first instance.
• Parental Communication Protocol: Parents are encouraged to communicate with their child's coach. However, it is advised not to approach the coach immediately before or after a contest. Please wait at least 24 hours and contact the coach by phone or email to arrange a suitable meeting time.
• Meeting with Athletic Director: If concerns remain unresolved after discussing them with the coach, parents may schedule a meeting with the Athletic Director. Please contact the Assistant to the Athletic Director to arrange an appointment.
• Meeting with Principal: If issues persist, parents can request a meeting with the Principal by contacting the front office.

Appropriate Concerns for Discussion with Coaches:

• Mental and physical well-being of the child
• Ways to support the child's improvement
• Concerns regarding the child's behavior

Inappropriate Topics for Discussion with Coaches:

• Team strategies
• Play calling
• Issues related to other student-athletes

General Guidelines: To ensure respectful and effective communication:

• Avoid confronting coaches before, during, or immediately after practices or contests.
• Allow at least 24 hours after practice, contest, or event before scheduling a meeting.
• Follow these steps which demonstrates respect for all parties involved and teaches student-athletes appropriate conflict-resolution methods.
   

Parents play a vital role in creating a positive and Christ-centered athletic experience for every student-athlete. We ask that all parents support our athletic program by adhering to the following expectations:

Parent Expectations

Support your student-athlete by taking an interest in the team's success and experience.

Model Christ-like sportsmanship by showing respect for opponents, coaches, officials, and fellow spectators. Cheer enthusiastically for Strong Rock Christian School and avoid negative comments directed at the opposing team.

Let your student-athlete know that, whether they win or lose, they are loved and that their effort and character are what matter most.

Respect the role of the coach. Please do not coach from the stands or sidelines.

If you have a concern, do not approach a coach immediately before, during, or after a contest. These are emotional times and are not appropriate for resolving issues. If necessary, schedule a meeting with the coach at a later time.

Fan Conduct & Sportsmanship

Fans are an important part of every athletic contest and can positively influence the experience of all participants. We expect all spectators to demonstrate respect, self-control, and Christian character at every event.
The following behaviors are prohibited at all Northwood Academy athletic events:

• Taunting or intimidating players, coaches, officials, or spectators.
• Verbal abuse of officials, coaches, players, or opposing fans.
• The use of profanity, obscene language, or inappropriate gestures.
• Throwing objects onto the playing surface or into spectator areas.
• Displaying signs or posters that demean or disrespect players, coaches, officials, or teams.
• Vandalism or destruction of property.
• Fighting, violence, or threatening behavior.
• Possession or use of alcohol, illegal drugs, or other prohibited substances.

Northwood Academy reserves the right to remove any spectator whose behavior is inconsistent with these expectations. Repeated or serious violations may result in suspension from future athletic events.
 

Supporting Your Student Athlete:

• Interest in Team Experience: Parents are encouraged to take an interest in the entire team's experience, not just their child's.
• Modeling Sportsmanship: Demonstrating good sportsmanship involves respecting opponents and officials. Cheering for Northwood Academy's teams is encouraged without disparaging the opponents.
• Encouraging Effort: Regardless of the outcome, parents should communicate to their student-athletes that they are loved and appreciated for their efforts.

Respect for Coaches:

• Role Boundaries: Parents are advised not to coach from the stands or raise concerns with the coach immediately before or after a contest. These times are not conducive to resolving issues effectively.

Sportsmanship Expectations:

• Fan Behavior: Fans, including students and adults, play a crucial role in supporting positive values learned through athletics.

Inappropriate Behavior: Specific behaviors such as taunting, verbal abuse, obscene gestures, throwing objects, derogatory signs or posters, vandalism, violence, and consumption of drugs or alcohol are strictly prohibited at all Northwood Academy athletic events.

These guidelines aim to foster a supportive and respectful environment for student-athletes, emphasizing positive engagement, clear communication, and exemplary behavior from all involved parties, including parents and fans.