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Bellarmine University Athletics Department
2005-06 Student-Athlete Handbook

The 2005-06 Bellarmine University Student-Athlete Handbook provides information for all student-athletes on the NCAA, Great Lakes Valley Conference and institutional rules, regulations and policies for athletic participation. If you have questions regarding information in any of the handbook sections, please contact your coach or a member of the athletic administration for clarification.  All sections are also saved in pdf format and can be printed by clicking on the "(print version)" links after the section heading.

Section 1   Athletic Philosophy Statement - Non Discrimination Policy  (print version)    

Section 2:      Code of Conduct and Sportsmanship  (print version)          

Section 3:       Behavioral Guidelines for Student-Athletes  (print version)  

Section 4:       GLVC Sportsmanship Policy  (print version)

Section 5:        Student-Athlete Compliance  (print version)

Section 6:       Athletic Eligibility  (print version)

Section 7:       Playing and Practice Regulations  (print version)

Section 8:       Financial Aid  (print version)

Section 9:       Student Host  (print version)

Section 10:     Gambling Policy  (print version)

Section 11:     Academic Policies  (print version)

Section 12:      Sports Medicine Policies and Procedures - Health and Insurance  (print version)

Section 13:      NCAA Drug Policy  (print version)

Section 14:      Student-Athlete Travel Policy  (print version)

Section 15:      Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)  (print version)

Section 1:  Bellarmine Athletic Philosophy Statement

Throughout the history of the institution, Bellarmine has concentrated on creating for its students opportunities that will become an integral part of the education and development of the "whole student".  The University firmly believes that athletics has a very important role to play in this regard and as such has great interest in the student's physical well-being and development.  As a consequence, athletic programs are designed that will benefit the entire student body.

The growth of athletic activities and facilities over the years has provided the University the opportunity to develop an athletic program that compliments the academic program of the University, providing quality athletics with quality academics, while providing opportunities for the students to enrich their talents in the area of leadership, cooperation and fair play.

The diversification of the athletic activities can be found in the intramural, recreational, club sport or intercollegiate programs being offered.  This variety of activities allows a degree of competitiveness so that each student can find his/her level of participation an enjoyable experience, while meeting and socializing with as many fellow students as possible.  There are assorted awards offered in the various programs, but the real reward for any student is opportunity to participate with some degree of efficiency, success and enjoyment.

Bellarmine offers students, through these athletic activities, a valuable co-curricular experience as part of student campus life.  The premise is that these activities will provide every student moral, social, physical and education values.  The ultimate goal is that during an academic year, something special is offered each student as an opportunity to participate at his/her level of interest and physical capabilities.

Non-Discrimination Policy

Bellarmine University admits qualified students of any age, gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, color, religion, and national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.  It does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, sexual orientation, race, disability, color, religion, or national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletics and other school administered programs.  Bellarmine University is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer.

Section 2:  Code of Conduct and Sportsmanship

Participation on an athletic team representing Bellarmine University is a privilege that comes with responsibilities and expectations.  As a student-athlete you are expected to conduct yourself with honesty, pride, sportsmanship and integrity on the playing field as well as off the playing field.

Your behavior as a student-athlete is subject to the Bellarmine University Code of Student Conduct and the Code of Conduct and Sportsmanship for Student-Athletes while you are on university premises or when you are involved with off-campus university activities.  In addition, student-athletes are subject to all rules and regulations that are required by the NCAA and conference, as well as those required by coaches for individual participation on a specific team.

Rules of Conduct

Student-athletes shall be guided in all their relations by the highest standards of integrity and honesty in the classroom, on the practice field and in competition.  Student-athletes:

·   Shall avoid any act tending to promote their own interests at the expense of the dignity and integrity of the institution or their fellow student-athlete.

·   Shall not compete unfairly on the practice field, in competition, or in the classroom.

·   Shall not attempt to malign, directly or indirectly, another student, coach or instructor.  Respect for the intrinsic dignity and worth of all persons, regardless of race, ethnic origins, religious preference, or gender, is expected in the athlete's actions. Discriminatory or harassing behavior will be dealt with through the university's disciplinary system.

·   Shall give credit to their fellow players and coaches when such credit is deserving and due.

·   Shall not solicit or accept financial aid except when in accordance with rules and regulations of the institution, conference and NCAA.

Student-athletes shall dedicate their primary efforts to the goals and interests of the institution, sport, teammates and the public.

·   Student-athletes shall consider academic responsibilities their highest priority.

·   Shall hold paramount the safety of teammates and their opponents   

·   Shall abide by the rules and regulations of their coaches and institution.

·   Shall not permit the use of their names in advertising and ventures with any person or firm. 

·   Student-athletes in public statements or in interviews with the press shall make statements in a truthful and factual manner.

·   Shall not be influenced in their competition by conflicting interests, financially or personally, including bribes and wagering.

Student-athletes shall always conduct themselves as good sports-persons and as responsible citizens.  Student-athletes:

·   Shall respect their coaches and instructors.

·   Shall maintain good appearance, good conduct appropriate language and good sportsmanship.

·   Shall show respect toward opposing players, opposing coaches and officials.

·   Shall accept defeat and victory gracefully.

·   Shall participate within the rules of the game and shall reject the attitude of "It's all right to play outside the rules if you don't get caught".

·   Shall contribute to the spirit of team play and leadership.

·   Shall deport themselves with honesty and sportsmanship so that the sport shall be an example of honor, dignity, and fair play.

·   Shall exercise self-discipline, cooperation, self-confidence, leadership and initiative.

·   Shall accept the decisions of coaches and the instructors; however, in matters of questionable ethics, student-athletes may direct their questions to the coaches or  instructors in private,          and if not satisfied, shall direct them to the appropriate superiors

Student-athletes shall represent the institution as loyal students and in accord with school spirit.

·   Shall strive for the highest degree of excellence.

·   Shall uphold all standards and regulations of the university.                            

·   Shall accept criticism from coaches as being constructive and in their best interest.

·   Shall accept criticism by the press and the public without rancor or bitterness.

Student-athletes who become aware of violations of institution or governing associations by any supporter of an athletic program have an obligation to report them to the appropriate coach or athletics director.

Section 3:  Behavioral Guidelines for Student-Athletes

The following guidelines apply to all student-athletes.  It shall be the head coach’s responsibility to establish and enforce additional team regulations for his/her particular sport.  All student-athletes are expected to comply with established team and training rules.

1.   Athletics aid may be reduced or cancelled during the period of the award if the student-athlete:

·      renders himself/herself ineligible for intercollegiate competition;

·      engages in serious misconduct warranting substantial disciplinary penalty;

·      voluntarily withdraws from a sport for personal reasons.

2.   Student-athletes are expected to attend all classes.  Missing classes except for scheduled games will not be tolerated.  Missing class to attend practice is a violation of NCAA regulations.

3. Possession and/or use of a controlled substance may be deemed sufficient cause for immediate dismissal from the team and for possible disciplinary action by University authorities.

4. The purchase and/or consumption of alcoholic beverages by student-athletes or student employees, regardless of age, on any road trip, or while representing the University, is strictly forbidden and will result in disciplinary action which may include suspension or dismissal from the team.

5.  No play or game personnel may use any form of tobacco product during athletic practices and contests.

6.  Participation in gambling activities that involves intercollegiate athletics or professional athletics, through a bookmaker, a parlay card, or any other method employed by organized gambling, is a violation of NCAA regulations.

7.  All student-athletes are expected to display acceptable behavior on and off the playing field.  Fighting, verbal abuse, taunting, hazing activities and foul language are not acceptable.

8.  All athletes must travel to events with the team.  A student-athlete may return home with parent(s) or guardian(s) provided prior approval has been received by the coach.  The parent or guardian must submit the travel approval form at least 24 hours prior to departure from the campus for that specific event or contest. The Travel Approval Form is listed on the web under compliance and may be printed and faxed to the school.

9.   Participation in game ceremonies, team and athletics department-sponsored activities is expected of each student-athlete.

10. Game uniforms, including warm-ups, jackets, e., are to be worn only at games or upon other occasions as specified by the coach.  All apparel is the property of the University and must be returned at the end of the playing season to the head coach.  Failure to return apparel and equipment will result in a fine up to the cost of replacement.

11. Attendance at training sessions and practices must take precedence over non-athletic extracurricular meetings and events.  Exceptions are at the discretion of the coach.

12. The student-athlete is expected to participate in all practices and games.  Illness, injury or special needs must be communicated to and approved by the head coach.

13.   Violations of Behavioral Guidelines may be sufficient grounds for reduced athletics financial aid, non-renewal of athletics financial aid, and disciplinary action up to and including suspension or dismissal from the team.

14. Student-athletes should also understand the Student Code of Conduct listed in the Student Handbook.  Violations of that code are subject to the University’s disciplinary processes which apply to all students.  Severe violations can result in loss of athletic eligibility.

Section 4:  GLVC Sportsmanship Policy

The Presidents, Faculty Athletic Representatives, Athletics Directors, Senior Woman Administrators and coaches in the conference are committed to maintaining sportsmanship and healthy competitive environments.  The GLVC will strive to promote environments that are hospitable; the conference does not believe that it is desirable to create a hostile environment for intercollegiate athletic contests.  The members believe that part of the mission of intercollegiate athletic programs, within educational context, should be to set an example for students and communities of how to act with sportsmanship and respect for opponents.

Therefore the GLVC expects all participants to treat opponents and officials with respect.  Failure to do so may lead to penalties.  Trash talking, taunting, baiting, celebrations that demean opponents, vulgar or profane language, intimidating actions, fighting attempts to injure, and any other malicious or violent conduct may be penalized by contest officials and/or the conference.   At the same time, the conference has no desire to take away the joy and exuberance that naturally occurs following an exciting play or contest.  Rather the intent of the conference is to encourage sportsmanship and honest competition.

GLVC Student-Athlete Pledge of Sportsmanship

As a Great Lakes Valley Conference student-athlete, I understand that the use of inappropriate language, taunting, baiting, or the use of unwarranted physical contact, directed at opposing players, coaches, or fans are contrary to the spirit of fair play and the sportsmanship the conference expects of its members.

I understand that any unsportsmanlike action during the course of the contest may result in an immediate penalty assessed to me or my team.  Furthermore, I understand that game officials have been instructed that they may assess such penalties without prior warning.  In signing this form, I pledge my efforts to promote GLVC sportsmanship policies.

Student-athletes will be required to sign the sportsmanship pledge prior to competition.

Section 5:  Student-Athlete Compliance

14.01.2 Academic Status

To be eligible to represent an institution in intercollegiate athletic competition, a student-athlete shall be enrolled in at least a minimum full-time program of studies, be in good academic standing and maintain satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate or equivalent degree.  A waiver of the minimum full-time enrollment requirement may be granted for a student enrolled in the final term of the baccalaureate program.  Also a student may represent the institution while enrolled as a graduate or professional student or while enrolled and seeking a second baccalaureate degree at the same institution.

14.01.3 Compliance with Other NCAA and Conference Legislation

To be eligible to represent the University in intercollegiate athletics competition, a student-athlete shall be in compliance with all applicable provisions of the constitution and bylaws of the Association and all rules and regulations of the University and the conference(s) of which the institution is a member.  Specific attention is called to legislation affecting eligibility in the following areas.

14.01.3.1 Amateurism.   

A student-athlete shall not be eligible for participation in an intercollegiate sport if the individual takes or has taken pay, or has accepted the promise of pay in any form, for participation in that sport, or if the individual has violated any of the other regulations related to amateurism set forth in Bylaw 12. 

You cannot have signed or promised to sign with an agent, semi-professional or professional team or anyone else who offers to help manage your professional career.  If you have received prize money, you may also be ineligible.  Please contact Compliance Services if any of these things have occurred.

14.01.3.2 Awards, Benefits and Expenses. 

Receipt by a student-athlete of non-permissible awards, extra benefits, or excessive or improper expenses not authorized by NCAA legislation violates the Association's amateurism principle and renders the student-athlete ineligible for athletics participation in the sport for which the improper award, benefit or expense was received. 

14.01.3.3. Ethical Conduct.   A prospective or enrolled student-athlete who is found to have engaged in unethical conduct shall be ineligible for intercollegiate competition in all sports.   Unethical conduct consists of, but is not limited to:

·   Fraudulence in connection with entrance or placement exam;

·   Engaging in any athletics competition under an assumed name or with intent otherwise to deceive;

·   Dishonesty in evading or violating NCAA regulations; or

·   Knowingly furnishing the NCAA or the individual’s institution false or misleading information concerning the student's involvement in or knowledge of matters relevant to a possible violation of NCAA regulations.

14.1.3 Student-Athlete Statement

Prior to participation in intercollegiate competition each academic year, a student-athlete shall sign a statement in a form prescribed by the Council in which the student-athlete submits information related to eligibility, recruitment, financial aid, amateur status and involvement in organized gambling activities related to intercollegiate athletics competition under the Associations' governing legislation.  Failure to complete and sign the statement shall result in the student-athlete's ineligibility for participation in all intercollegiate competition.  Violations of this bylaw do not affect a student-athlete’s eligibility if the violation occurred due to an institutional administrative error or oversight, and the student-athlete subsequently signs the form; however, the violation shall be considered an institutional violation per Constitution 2.8.1

14.1.4.1 Drug-Testing Consent Form

Each academic year a student-athlete shall sign a form prescribed by the Council in which the student consents to be tested for the use of drugs prohibited by NCAA legislation.  Failure to complete and sign the consent form prior to practice or competition in Divisions I and II sports in which the Association conducts year-round drug testing and prior to competition in all other sports in Divisions I, II and III shall result in the student-athlete's ineligibility for participation (i.e., practice and competition) in all intercollegiate athletics.  Violations of this bylaw do not affect a student-athlete’s eligibility if the violation occurred due to an institutional administrative error or oversight, and the student-athlete subsequently signs the form; however, the violation shall be considered an institutional violation per Constitution 2.8.1

13.7.1.2.3.2   NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse

The Clearinghouse is an agency which provides initial-eligibility certification for all freshmen wishing to compete at the Division I and II levels.  All prospective student-athletes who plan to enroll in college as a freshman must register and be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse.  All walk-ons have to be certified before representing the institution in athletic competition.  More information on the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse can be found at www.ncaaclearinghouse.net.

National Letter of Intent

The National Letter of Intent (NLI) is designed to reduce and limit recruiting pressure on student-athletes and to promote and preserve the amateur nature of collegiate athletics.

·         By signing the NLI, a prospective student-athlete agrees to attend the designated college or university for one academic year.  Participating institutions agree to provide the student-athlete with financial aid for one academic year provided he/she is admitted to the institution and is eligible for financial aid under NCAA rules. 

·         The NLI has advantages to both the prospective student-athlete and participating educational institutions.

·         Once a National Letter of Intent is signed, prospective student-athletes are no longer subject to further recruiting calls and contacts.

·         Student athletes are assured of an athletics scholarship for one full academic year.

·         Institutions can be certain that once the student-athlete has signed a NLI, there is not need to continue recruiting for that position.

·         The NLI emphasizes the student-athletes’ commitments to educational institutions, not particular coaches or teams.  The program promotes student-athletes’ academic objectives and helps to sustain the amateur nature of college sports.

·         There are consequences for failing to attend the designated college or university for one academic year.  More information on the National Letter of Intent can be found at www.national-letter.org.

Section 6:  Athletic Eligibility

Eligibility

Only full-time students are eligible to represent the University in extracurricular or co-curricular activities.  Academically, students must possess a cumulative quality point index of 1.80 after the first two semesters of their freshman year and 2.00 after all succeeding years and must be making satisfactory progress towards a degree.  Satisfactory progress is defined as the successful completion of 24 semester hours during the academic year (August 15 to August 15).  However, an exception to the undergraduate full-time course load is permitted during the final semester before graduation.  In addition student-athletes are required to make progress toward a degree.  Beginning with the junior year, a student-athlete must take a minimum of 12 hours applicable to their specific degree program.

Except for reasons of academic and nonacademic suspension or dismissal, students who possess a cumulative quality point index of 2.00 (1.80 after their freshman year) will be eligible to represent the University in extracurricular or co-curricular activities until the following August 15 or the next full-time semester.  Students who are ineligible academically to represent the University will regain their eligibility as soon as they attain a cumulative 2.00 quality point index.

Under ordinary circumstances, full-time transfer students become eligible to represent the University upon enrollment in Bellarmine University as a full-time student.  Once enrolled, transfer students must maintain the same academic standards established for all students.

Eligibility Requirements                                   

The student-athlete is required to meet all university academic requirements as well as the eligibility rules of the national associations and affiliate conferences.  Specifically these requirements are as follows:

Twelve Hour Rule

All undergraduate students competing in intercollegiate varsity and junior varsity teams must be enrolled in at least 12 semester hours of course work at all times during the playing season and during any post-season competition.  Graduate students must be enrolled in eight hours at all times.

·         Students cannot drop below 12 hours for even one day.  If you are making course changes that could involve a temporary drop below 12 hours, be sure to add a new course into your schedule before dropping the old course.

·         The only exceptions are for graduate students and seniors who need less than 12 hours to graduate as certified by the registrar's office.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

All undergraduate students must satisfactorily complete 24 semester hours of acceptable degree credit during each year of University enrollment and prior to the beginning of each new season of competition.  This is an average of 12 hours per semester.  Eighteen of the 24 hours must be passed during the regular academic year.  Only six hours may be counted in the summer toward the required 24 hours.

The calculation of the grade-point average used to fulfill "satisfactory completion" requirements shall be based upon hours earned or accepted for degree credit in a specific baccalaureate program.  Consult the current Bellarmine University Catalog

 

·   After the completion of the freshman year:  1.80

·   After the completion of the sophomore year and subsequent seasons:  2.00

Student-athletes who have a cumulative point standing below a 2.0 at the end of the spring semester must attend summer school at Bellarmine in order to improve their point standing. Students who have above a cumulative 2.0 point standing may take courses at other institutions provided they have received a waiver and visiting student letter from Bellarmine. 

Designated Degree Program

Student-athletes shall designate a program of studies leading toward a specific degree by the beginning of the junior year or third year of enrollment.   Student-athletes shall declare their major with the Registrar’s Office and on the Student-Athlete Information Form at the beginning of their fifth semester.  A minimum of 12 hours per semester must count toward your designated degree program beginning with your fifth fulltime semester in school.


Student-athletes shall have four years of eligibility and shall complete their seasons of participation during the first 10 semesters in which they are enrolled in a collegiate institution in at least a minimum full-time program of studies.

GLVC Eligibility Requirements

Any student-athlete who has been enrolled in a collegiate institution as a full-time student for four semesters or who has utilized two seasons of competition, and who has attended the member institution for at least one semester, must have a cumulative grade point average of 2.00 or higher to be eligible, regardless of the institution's definition of good standing.  Enrollment and competition includes all transfer work; the GPA includes only work at the member institution.  Effective date:  Students enrolling after January 1, 1993.

Section 7:  Playing and Practice Regulations

Countable Athletically Related Activities – In Season

  • Practice – includes team and individual instruction

  • Competition

  • Required weight-training and conditioning activities held at the direction of or supervised by an institutional staff member

  • Individual skill-related activities requested by a student-athlete or workouts required by or supervised by the member of the institution’s coaching staff

  • On-site activities called by a member(s) of a team that is considered as a requisite for participation in that sport (e.g. captain’s practice)

  • Film or videotape reviews of athletic practices or contests

  • Required participation in camps, clinics or workshops

  • Meetings initiated by coaches or other institutional staff members on athletically related matter

  • Visiting the competition site in the sports of cross country and golf

Daily and Weekly Time Limitations – In Season

  • Student-athletes’ participation in countable athletically related activities shall be limited to four hours per day, 20 hours per week.

  • Student-athlete’s are required to have one day off during the playing season.  A team travel day may be considered as a day off, provided no countable athletically related activities occur during that day.

  • All competition counts as 3 hours, regardless of actual duration. 

  • A practice round of golf may exceed the fours hours per day limitation, but the weekly limit of 20 is still in effect.  A practice round on the day prior to the start of a collegiate golf tournament at the tournament site shall count as three hours, regardless of the duration of the round.

  • Hourly and weekly limitations do not go into effect until the first day of classes or the first date of competition, whichever occurs first.

  • Hourly and weekly limitations are not in effect during the academic year between terms when classes are not in session (e.g. Christmas Break, Spring Break, e.)

  • See Bylaw 17.02.1.1 for a detailed description of Countable Athletically Related Activities.

Practice Prohibited After Competition

Practice may not be conducted at any time (including vacation periods) following competition, except between contests, rounds or events during a multi-day or multi-event competition (e.g. doubleheaders in softball or baseball, rounds of gold in a multi-day tournament).

Countable Athletically Related Activities – Out-of-Season

  • Out-of-season limits:  8 hours per week

  • Maximum of 2 hours per week for individual skill-related instruction

  • Required weight training and conditioning activities held at the direction of or supervised by an institutional staff member

  • Individual skill-related instruction requested by a student-athlete (no more than 4 student-athletes from the same team may participate in instruction at any one time).

  • No Countable Athletically Related Activities permitted outside the playing season during an institutional period (e.g. Thanksgiving, Christmas, Spring Break and Summer Vacation.

  • See Bylaw 17.1.6.2 for detailed description of Countable Athletically Related Activities outside of the playing season.

Section 8:  Financial Aid

Financial aid in the form of athletic grants is available to all participants of each intercollegiate team on recommendation by the coach of each sport and approval by the athletic director and the director of student aid.  Athletic grant-in-aids are made available in a package with all other financial aid that is available to all college students who can demonstrate a need factor through the completion of financial aid materials.  The amount of athletic aid is subject to the regulations of the national associations governing the men and women sport programs, as well as state and federal grant regulations.

University Charges Not Covered by the Full Grant-In-Aid:

·         Orientation Fee

·         Residence Halls damage deposit

·         Cost of treatment for non-athletically related injuries

·         School insurance policy – you will be charged a fee per semester if you do not complete the insurance form listing your current insurance coverage.  This is separate from the athletic forms you must complete.

·         Library fines

·         Fines for damage to university property

·         School supplies, reference books, pens, notebooks, etc.

·         Vehicle Registration Fee, parking fines, etc.

·         Lost textbooks

Student-Athlete Employment

If your coach or another staff member helps you find employment, keep in mind that you are representing the Department of Athletics and the University.  Employment contacts made on your behalf are made in compliance with departmental and NCAA rules and regulations.

Report this type of employment to the compliance officer.

Rules of Employment

·         The following rules are applicable to any type of student-athlete employment:

·         The work performed must be useful;

·         The rate of pay must be the normal rate of pay for duties performed;

·         The hours paid must be the hours worked;

·         Payment in advance of hours worked is not permitted; and transportation to work may be provided only if transportation is available to employees.

Renewal or Non-renewal of Athletics Financial Aid (15.3.5)

It is the policy of the Bellarmine Athletics Department to honor its financial commitment to each student-athlete in accordance with NCAA (15.3) and the Great Lakes Valley Conference rules. An athletics aid award may be issued for a minimum of one (1) semester and for not more than one (1) academic year (15.3.3). 

Upon recommendation of the head coach, all returning student-athletes eligible to receive athletics aid shall be notified in writing by the Director of Financial Aid on or before July 1 prior to the academic year in which the aid to be effective. 

Reduction and Cancellation (15.3.4)

Institutional financial aid may be gradated or canceled during the period of the award if the recipient: 

      1.  Renders himself or herself ineligible for intercollegiate competition; or

      2.  Fraudulently misrepresents any information on an application, letter of intent or financial aid agreement; or

      3.  Engages in serious misconduct warranting substantial disciplinary penalty, or

      4.  Voluntarily withdraws from a sport for personal reasons.  If the recipient withdraws from a sport for personal reasons prior to the institution's first competition in that sport, gradation or cancellation may occur immediately.  If the recipient withdraws subsequent to the institution's first competition in that sport, the gradation or cancellation shall not occur prior to the conclusion of that semester. 

Hearing Opportunity Required (15.3.4.1.3)

If the grant-in-aid is not renewed, the student-athlete must receive an appeal procedure letter in order to be notified of the right to appeal. The student-athlete who has had his/her financial aid reduced or cancelled may request a hearing to appeal the action. The student-athlete shall submit a written request to the Director of Financial Aid.

The student-athlete will be given fifteen (15) working days from the date of the non-renewal notification letter in which to notify the Director of Financial Aid of intent to appeal the decision.  The expiration of this fifteen (15) working day period will conclude the student-athlete’s right to appeal.

Section 9:  Student Host

Student-athletes may serve as a student host for a prospect making an “official” visit to campus.  As a student-host you are expected to conduct yourself in a manner that represents yourself, your team and Bellarmine in a positive way.

Entertainment Expenses Allowed

A maximum of $30 per day may be provided to cover the entertainment expenses of yourself (and all hosts), the prospect and the prospect’s parents, legal guardians or spouse.  If a student-host is host to more than one prospect, the host can receive an additional $15 per day for each additional prospect.  The entertainment money must not be used to purchase souvenirs (e.g., t-shirts).  It is permissible for the Athletic Department to purchase three meals a day for a prospect and his or her parents. The student-host who is accompanying the prospect is also allowed to receive complimentary meals.  However, only one host per prospect may be provided a free meal if restaurant facilities are used.

Student Host Expense Report

As a student-host you will be asked to sign a “Student Host Instructions Sheet and Expense Report” verifying that you received the allowable amount for hosting a prospect.  Your signature also indicated that you are aware that:

  • You may not transport the prospect more than 30 miles from campus.

  • You may not use an automobile for the prospect or yourself that has been provided by the University, coaching staff or one of the boosters.

  • You may not provide the prospect with material gifts (t-shirts, clothing items, souvenirs, e.) or purchase them with the entertainment money provided to you.

At the conclusion of the visit, you will be required to complete the Student-Host Expense Form and submit your receipts to the coach who arranged the official visit.

Section 10:  Gambling Policy

The NCAA Student-Athlete Statement signed by all student-athletes at the beginning of every year says that, “you affirm that you meet the NCAA regulations regarding eligibility, recruitment, financial aid, amateur status and involvement in organized gambling.”  This means you may not gamble on college or professional sports!  It’s against the rules! (NCAA Bylaw 10.3).

Staff members of the athletics department and student-athletes shall not knowingly:

  • Provide information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities concerning intercollegiate athletics competition.

  • Solicit a no monetary (e.g., shirt, dinner) or monetary bet on any intercollegiate team

  • Accept a bet on any team representing the institution;

  • Participate in any gambling activity that involved intercollegiate athletics or professional athletics, through a bookmaker, a parlay card or any other method employed by organized gambling.

Violations of this NCA`A Bylaw will jeopardize a student-athlete’s eligibility and is punishable by state and federal law.

Student-athletes are also responsible for reporting the following:

  • Reporting to the coach or athletic director any offers of gifts, money, or favors in exchange for supplying team information or for attempting to alter the ouome of any contest.

  • Maintaining a clear understanding of what constitutes gambling and bribery activities and reporting any suspected infractions.

  • Contacting the coach or other departmental personnel (e.g. Sports Information Director) when questions concerning appropriate release of team information occurs.

  • Recognizing that participation in gambling or bribery activities will result in disciplinary action by the NCAA as well as local, state, and/or federal prosecution of the involved individual(s).

Section 11:  Academic Policies

Class Attendance

Each student is expected to attend all classes for which he/she is enrolled.  The attendance policy for each course is determined by the instructor of the course.  This policy shall be made known to the class at the beginning of each semester.  It is the student's responsibility to know the policy on attendance for each course in which he/she is enrolled. It is the responsibility of student-athletes to attend every class session held when they are not ill, involved with a personal emergency, or traveling with the team.  Consistent class attendance and participation are essential to academic success.  Poor class attendance is a major factor in nearly all cases of academic failure.

Absences Due to Illness - student-athletes should contact their instructors at the earliest opportunity preferably prior to the class meeting (especially if any graded work is scheduled).

Absences Due to Emergencies - student-athletes should notify the Student Affairs Office and the Athletic Office if they must leave the University for any extended period of time because of hospitalization, injuries, or family problems.  Instructors will be contacted, but it is the responsibility of the student-athlete to arrange for any makeup work.

Absences Due to Team Travel - student-athletes should provide their instructors with a list of dates on which athletic events conflict with class attendance at the beginning of each semester.  In addition, instructors should be reminded of forthcoming absences at least 2-4 class days in advance.  Arrangements should be made ahead of time to make up all missed assignments, exams, quizzes, labs, e.

Student-Athlete Absentee Notice Form:  student-athletes should complete an absentee notice form for each class missed due to competition away from the college.  The forms should be requested at least two class days prior to the competition.  The form confirms that you are participating in a college-sanctioned competition.  It does not serve as an excused absence for that class.  Your instructor has the final say in excused and unexcused absences and it is the student-athlete's responsibility to know and abide by that policy. 

Remember, you are responsible for making arrangements ahead of time for any missed quizzes, tests, presentations, e.  Papers should be handed in prior to missing class unless prior arrangements have been made.  A student who is inexcusably absent from class on a day on which a test or examination announced in advance is given will receive the grade of "F" and will not have the opportunity of making up the test.  In the case of an excused absence on such a day, he/she will consult with his/her instructor as to what arrangements are to be made for taking care of the situation.

Withdrawal from a Course

Students may withdraw from a course during the first week of classes with no entry on their official transcript.  From the second through the tenth week of classes (or two-thirds of the semester for classes not offered on a regular basis), students may withdraw from a course with a grade of W on the transcript.  Students may not withdraw after the end of the tenth week of classes except for documented reasons of serious illness or family or financial problems.  To withdraw after the tenth week, students must obtain the permission of their school's Dean.  Deadlines for withdrawal from a course are published in the Class Schedule.

A student who finds it necessary to drop a course or withdraw from college after registration must complete the proper form in the Registrar's Office or give WRITTEN notice, by mail, to the Registrars Office.  The date of withdrawal is not the day the student stops going to class, but the date the proper withdrawal notice is received in the registrar's office.   Students who fail to comply with this regulation will receive an "F" for all courses for which they have registered and forfeit all tuition refunds.  The dates and refund schedule are listed in the current Class Schedule.

Academic Status

Academic status is expressed in a quality point index.  A student's quality point index is found by dividing the sum of quality points by the sum of "Hours Attempted".   For analysis of academic status Bellarmine computes both a semester index and a cumulative index.  To be eligible for graduation, a student must have a cumulative quality point index of 2.00 or higher.

Good Standing

The status of good standing indicates that a student has a cumulative quality point of 2.00 or better and that he/she is making satisfactory progress toward a degree. For purposes of extracurricular and co-curricular activities, students must have a 1.80 at the end of their first two semesters and a 2.00 every subsequent semester.

Probation

A student will be placed on probation for any of the following reasons:

       Cumulative index falls below 2.00;

       Semester index falls below 1.60;

       Assigned two "Fs" in any semester.

Students will continue on probation until they raise their cumulative index to 2.00.  A warning letter is sent to any student whose semester index falls between 2.00 and 1.60.

Dismissal

Any student whose cumulative index falls below the following scale will be dismissed for poor scholarship:

       At the end of 2 semesters - 1.40

       At the end of 3 semesters - 1.50

       At the end of 4 semesters - 1.60

       At the end of 5 semesters - 1.80

       At the end of 6 semesters - 2.00

All appeals of academic dismissal shall be made to the Provost.

Dean's List

To acknowledge publicly the high scholastic achievement of its students, Bellarmine follows the traditional practice of publishing a Dean's List at the end of each semester.  Placement on this list is merited by a full-time student with a semester average of 3.50 or higher.  Students doing their student teaching are eligible for the Dean's List if they have a 3.50 in courses for that one semester and if they have been on the Dean's List for the two semesters immediately preceding the semester of student teaching.

President's Honor Roll

Student-athletes who earn between a 3.0 and 3.49 during the fall and spring semesters will be listed on the President's Honor Roll.

All-Academic Teams

Freshmen and transfer student-athletes who have a 3.40 cumulative average and upperclassmen who have a 3.20 cumulative average and are starters or important reserves will be nominated for All-Academic teams.

Section 12:  Sports Medicine Policies and Procedures

The Athletic Department has two Certified Athletic Trainers that are available to all athletic teams.  It is the duty of the athletic trainer to administer the documentation of all injuries that occur in our athletics programs, recommend doctor and/or hospital referrals and coordinate the insurance claims processing with the Director of Athletics.

Physicals

All student-athletes are required to have a physical examination once a year.  The physical is required each year before the student-athlete is allowed to participate in any intercollegiate activities.  The athletic trainer will make arrangements for physicals each year.  The physicals will usually be administered in Knights Hall; however, there are times when they may be administered at another site.  The athletic trainer will notify all coaches the date, time and site of physicals.  It is the responsibility of the coaches to notify the athletes of the date, time and importance of the required physicals. 

All student-athletes, including walk-ons (freshmen, transfers, upperclassmen) are required to have a physical at one of the two scheduled physical dates annually.

Student-athletes will not be allowed to practice or compete until they have passed a physical examination.

If the student-athlete misses the scheduled physical, he/she will be required to get a physical at the next available time.   ALL PHYSICALS MUST BE PERFORMED BY A BELLARMINE PHYSICIAN.

Medical Treatment

When appropriate the athletic trainer will arrange for medical treatment for student-athletes at doctors' offices or hospital emergency rooms.  If the athletic trainer is not available, the coach is responsible for making arrangements for proper emergency treatment.  In that case the athletic trainer should be notified as soon as possible after the occurrence.  The athletic trainer will assess the injured athlete's ability to participate on a daily basis.  It is very important that an injured athlete see the trainer daily for treatments and also to determine the earliest safe date for resuming athletic activities.   The trainer will inform the athlete of the time to be in the training room for daily treatment.  If an athlete misses a treatment, he/she will not be allowed to participate in athletic activities that day.

Coaches should make sure their athletes are aware of the injury and treatment policy.  The training room will be opened every day during classes for injury treatments and on weekends as needed for activities.  Training room hours will be announced regularly and the athletic trainer will try to schedule treatments convenient to the class schedules of the student-athletes.

Court/Field Injury Procedure

In the event of an on field/court injury the following will be the "chain of command" in determining if the student-athlete can resume activity following the injury.

      1.   Team Physician (if on site)

      2.   Certified Athletic Trainer (if on site)

      3.   Student Athletic Trainer/Coach

Medical Coverage

The Athletic Department will not cover medical expenses other than those for a specific injury suffered during actual participation in official college practice or game competition.  Student-athletes who are treated by a medical source without specific authorization from the Athletic Department do so at their own expense. 

All medical expenses incurred by a student-athlete due to injury at practice or competition must be filed first with the student’s insurance company.  Bellarmine will not file their insurance until an Explanation of Benefits form has been received from the student’s insurance company.  The student-athlete and/or the parents are responsible for providing the athletic trainer with the Explanation of Benefits within a timely manner.

All arrangements for the care of injuries are to be made before the student-athlete leaves college or graduates.  The University will not accept any responsibilities after an athlete has graduated.

Insurance

All athletes are required to have insurance.  If they do not have coverage, they may purchase a policy though 1st Agency for a reasonable rate.  Contact the athletic trainer for this information.

The athletic trainer is responsible for processing all insurance claims that result from athletic injuries.  It is the responsibility of the athlete to get bills and all other required documentation to the athletic trainer in a timely fashion.  Only the trainer or athletic director can approve payment of a medical bill with the athletic insurance policy.

Training Room Regulations

1.    All athletes should report to the training room if they are injured.  It is your responsibility to let us know when you get hurt.  Bellarmine University’s Insurance will not cover you unless we send you to the University Doctor.

2.    You are to report for treatments until released by the trainers.  Treatment should be scheduled on your off days when the training room is open.  It is in your best interest to get as many treatments as possible.

3.    All treatments are given one hour before you are to be dressed and ready for games or practices.  Do not come in 15 minutes before, as we may not have time to get you to where you should be on time.  Class attendance or an emergency are the only excuses for being late for treatment.  Getting treatment is NO EXCUSE for being late to practice, unless you were in class.  We will follow the procedures set forth in the coach’s manual for not getting treatment.

4.    Post practice/game treatments are immediately following the session.  Do not  shower or eat before coming for treatments.  We will close the training room 15 minutes after the last practice is scheduled to be completed.

5.    The training room will be open from 1 PM to 5 PM on weekdays for treatments and evaluations.  Morning hours are by appointment only.  If you schedule an appointment, you are expected to be there on time so others may be scheduled around you.

6.    The training room is open for treatments only.  It is not a meeting place, a lounge, or a place to wait for someone.  If you are riding to practice with someone getting treatment, please do not come in with them.  It gets too crowded with the people that need to be there.  Do not be offended if you are asked to leave.

7.    It is your responsibility to sign in every time you get treatment.  If the coach asks how you are doing and we go to look at what you put down, and you didn’t sign in it is just as if you did not get treatment.  It gets too busy for us to keep track of the sign in sheet.  If you do not know what treatment you received, just ask.

8.    The training room is a medical facility.  There is no place for horse play or goofing off.  No cursing is allowed, nor anything which could be considered offensive.

9.    No food or drink of any kind is allowed in the training room.

10.  Shirts are to be worn at all times.  Outdoor athletes may not wear or bring shoes into the training room.

11.  Outdoor athletes should remove all grass and dirt before coming into training room for treatment.

Section 13:  Drug Testing Policy

NCAA Drug Testing

The NCAA randomly rests student-athletes for banned substances.  If you have tested positive for a NCAA banned substance, you will lose your eligibility for a minimum of one year and will not be able to participate in athletic activities at any NCAA institution for a minimum of one calendar year following the positive test. 

Drug Testing Consent Form

The Drug Testing Consent Form that you sign prior to participation each academic year states:

A student-athlete who is found to have utilized a substance on the list of banned drugs, as set forth in Bylaw 31.2.2.1 shall be declared ineligible for further participation in regular-season and postseason competition in all sports in accordance with the provisions in Bylaw 18.4.1.5.1.  The certifying institution may appeal to the NCAA Eligibility Committee for restoration of the student-athlete’s eligibility if the institution concludes that circumstance warrant restoration. (Bylaw 18.4.1.5)

A student-athlete who tests positive (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the NCAA Executive Committee) shall be charged with loss of a minimum of one season of competition or a minimum of the equivalent of one full season of competition if  the season of competition has not yet begun for that student athlete.  The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending on calendar year (e.g., 365 days) after the student-athlete’s positive drug test, and until the student-athlete retests negative (in accordance with the testing methods authorized by the Executive Committee) and the student-athlete’s eligibility is restored by the Eligibility Committee.

If the student-athlete tests positive a second time for the use of any drug, other than a “street drug” as defined in Bylaw 31.2.3.1, he or she shall lost all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports.  In addition, the penalty for missing a scheduled drug test is the same as the penalty for testing positive for the use of a banned drug.

If the student-athlete tests positive for the use of a “street drug” after being restored to eligibility, he or shall be charged with the loss of a minimum of one additional season of competition in all sports and also shall remain ineligible for regular-season and postseason competition at least through the next calendar year. (Bylaw 18.4.1.5.1)

The Executive Committee shall adopt a list of banned drugs and shall authorize methods for drug testing of student-athletes on a year-round basis.  This list of banned drugs and the procedure for informing institutions about authorized methods for drug testing are set forth in Bylaws 31.2.3.1 and 31.2.3.3, respectively.  (Bylaw 18.4.1.5.2)

The current list of banned drugs may be found at www.ncaa.org/health-safety

Section 14:  Athletic Department Travel Policy

Practice:

For those athletic teams that must practice off-campus, due care should be taken to limit the number of student-athletes driving - this is to reduce risk of accidents and subsequent liability.  Student-athletes should have reliable transportation to and from off-campus sites and student-athletes who drive, should exercise appropriate caution when driving to and from off-campus practice sites.  Whenever possible, the coaching staff should drive Bellarmine (rented) vehicles. 

Competition:

When an athletic team travels to an away competition, all efforts should be made for the team to travel in one party to the site of competition.  Airlines, charter bus or Bellarmine (rented) vehicles driven by the coaching staff are the prescribed modes of transportation.

Any individual driving a Bellarmine (rented) vehicle must be approved by Bellarmine University’s insurance carrier.  Bellarmine (rented) vehicles are not to be driven by student-athletes or parents unless prior written approval has been obtained from the Athletic Director or his/her designee and the individual has been properly certified to drive.  To receive driving approval, one must pass an on-line driver’s certification test, pass a MV background check and complete the appropriate paperwork with the Athletic Department Office Manager.

The official team travel party consists of the coaching staff, student-athletes on the team roster, managers, athletic trainers, approved support staff (e.g., statisticians), and Bellarmine employees who travel with the team.  No individual other than those in the official team party may travel in a chartered bus or Bellarmine (rented) vehicle without the written approval of the Athletic Director or his/her designee at least 24 hours prior to the trip.

Requests for student-athletes or parents (driving student-athletes) to drive their personal vehicle separately from the team (even if following the team bus or vans) to or from the site of competition must be approved at least 24 hours prior to departure by either the  Athletic Director or his/her designee.  Such requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis, but they should be the exception, not the norm.

When staying overnight in conjunction with team travel, all team members (student-athletes, coaches and support staff) are expected to stay in the designated team hotel with the team, not with parents or other parties.  Any excep