Strong Rock will compete in the Georgia Independent Athletic Association (GIAA), Region 5. All athletic contests are operated under the rules and regulations governing that sport by the National Federation of High School Athletics and the Georgia Independent Athletic Association.

2.1  School Mission Statement

The mission of Strong Rock Christian School is to glorify God and partner with families in educating and inspiring their children to impact the world for Jesus Christ – The Strong Rock.

Our Athletic mission is to compliment and advance the school mission

• Present the mission​
• Promote the mission​
• Practice the mission​
• Preserve the mission

 

2.2  Athletic Vision Statement

Striving to empower Christ-like character while nurturing God-given physical gifts.

 

2.3  Program Motto

“Creating winners for Christ through competition”

 

2.4  Program Components

Spiritual
To foster growth through Spiritual and Biblical character development: 
I will be accountable to God for this: what did I do with all those kids he gave me? What did I do to build his kingdom?

• Culture
• Discipleship
• Missions

 

Academic
To acquire an education for life after sports:

• Standard of excellence
• Rigorous college prep curriculum

 

Athletic
To prepare physically and mentally to compete:

• In-Season training
• Out-Season training
• Skill development
• Competitive culture

 

Social 
To appropriate positive interaction with fellow students, faculty, and the community:

• Team activities
• Build unity
• Mission opportunities

 

2.5  Core Values

Commitment 
"Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters." - Colossians 3:23

Integrity
"For the Lord gives wisdom; from His mouth comes knowledge and understanding; He stores up sound wisdom for the upright; He is a shield to those who walk uprightly." Proverbs 2:6-7
 
Unity
"I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no division among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." 1 Corinthians 1:10

Excellence
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8

Accountability
"And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:24-25
 

Excellence in Competition

• We will strive for excellence as coaches by teaching solid fundamentals, building leaders, and developing the best offensive and defensive schemes to fit our personnel.
   
• We will always strive for excellence as players by giving our best and encouraging others to give their best.
   
• We will strive for excellence as fans by modeling Christ in promoting an environment that is rich in sportsmanship.

Student - athletes at Strong Rock Christian School participate in interscholastic sports. Parents and student - athletes should have a clear understanding that interscholastic sports are competitive and successful programs combine the attributes of winning with the objectives and philosophies of participation as stated earlier in this handbook. The staff of dedicated, committed, and professional coaches must make decisions on the playing status of all student - athletes based on what are the best options for the team and program to be successful. The Principal, Athletic Director and Head Coaches will operate with an open-door policy with parent(s) and student - athletes to discuss any issues that need to be addressed concerning the various aspects of the student - athlete's participation in the sport. However, the parent(s) and student - athlete must make prior arrangements for an appointment with all parties to ensure that the most productive atmosphere exists in discussing issues of concern.

Please do not attempt to confront a coach before or after a contest or practice. These can be emotional times for both the parent and the coach and generally do not promote a resolution. 

Appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches are: (1) mental and physical treatment of your child; (2) ways to help your child improve; and (3) concerns about your child's behavior. Issues that are not appropriate to discuss with coaches are: (1) team strategy; (2) play calling; and (3) other student - athletes.

The Athletic Director oversees the entire athletic program. The AD works with Leadership and High School Principals to provide a quality program. Each Assistant Coach, Academy, or JV Coach reports to the Head Coach of their sport, and all Head Coaches report directly to the Athletic Director. Questions or concerns about a specific team will be first addressed to your son/daughter’s coach. If your questions are not sufficiently addressed, feel free to make an appointment with the Head Coach of that sport, and then the Athletic Director. Parents are strongly encouraged to support the decisions of the coach. While you may not agree with every decision of a coach, how and when you express your feelings may have a negative effect on your child and on the team. The time immediately following a contest is an emotional time, so please refrain from approaching a coach with issues at that time. A good standard to follow is “right time, right place, and right spirit.”

The athletic program at Strong Rock Christian School will provide each participating student adequate opportunities for:

• sharing Jesus Christ with teammates, opponents, coaches, and stakeholders of Strong Rock Christian School
• physical, mental, and emotional growth and development
• the acquisition and development of special skills in the activities of each student's choice
• directed leadership and supervision that stresses self-discipline, self-motivation, excellence, and the ideals of good sportsmanship exemplified through winning and losing graciously
• being a part of a unified team composed of the student body, faculty, and the community
• the achievement of goals established by the individual student, the team, and the school
• the development of skills and an appreciation of sports that may be used throughout life as a participant and/or spectator
   

5.1  Goal for each Student-athlete

The overall goal for the athletic program of Strong Rock Christian School is for each student-athlete to become a better overall person through his or her participation in athletics. The major points of emphasis throughout the program will be:

• developing as a Christ-follower
• teamwork
• maximum effort, dedication and commitment
• respect for authority
• discipline within an organization

All the following criteria must be satisfied prior to any student-athlete's participation in any athletic practices, games, or team function:

• eligibility status filed and verified by the Georgia Independent Athletic Association as well as all local requirements as specified by Strong Rock Christian School; the GIAA requirements for eligibility are as follows:
  • A student must be a regular student taking 3 or more units, per semester in Grades 9 through 12.
  • All student-athletes must have passed a minimum of 5 classes taken during the previous semester.
  • There are other stipulations concerning eligibility that are set forth by the Georgia Independent Athletic Association that are too numerous to mention here. If you have any questions concerning eligibility, please feel free to contact the Athletic Director. Eligibility is taken very seriously by the administration at Strong Rock Christian School. Infractions concerning eligibility have been dealt with very seriously by the Georgia Independent Athletic Association and infraction penalties may include fines imposed on offending schools and/or the forfeiture of games.
     
• A complete physical examination form on file with DRAGONFLY, http://www.dragonflymax.com/, school Athletic Director and the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete wishes to participate stating that the student-athlete is cleared to participate without restrictions or with specific restrictions noted. The physical form can be obtained either from the School Website, Head Coach, Athletic Director or Athletic Trainer.
   
• Completed forms for heat policy, concussion awareness, and sudden cardiac arrest prevention. (Found on Dragonfly)
   
• Emergency Care card on file with the school Athletic Director, trainer, and the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete wishes to participate.
   
• Documentation of current and active insurance coverage for the student-athlete
   
• Parents guardians and/or school athletic department; in addition, a statement signed by the parent/guardian of the student-athlete verifying the understanding that the school is not responsible for any financial obligations above and beyond the primary and secondary insurance coverage payments in the event of an accident and/or injury in the normal course of athletic participation by the student-athlete.
   
• In the event of an injury, a written doctor's medical release must be on file with the school Athletic Director, trainer and the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete wishes to participate that clears the student-athlete to participate without restrictions or with specific restrictions noted on the release.

Strong Rock Christian School maintains that academics and athletics are collaborative partners in the overall development of the student - athlete. Based on this principle, the athletic department believes and will require each student-athlete to meet the following academic requirements:

• School generated progress reports (issued every 9 weeks) will be used to track any academic deficiencies of our student-athletes. The Athletic Director and Head Coaches will meet and review the progress reports results to identify those student-athletes with academic deficiencies. If at any of those grade report intervals a student-athlete has a failing grade in any course(s), the student-athlete may be placed on academic / athletic probation and be required to attend either mandatory tutoring sessions for at least 2 hours per week in any and all courses in which they have a failing grade if the academic deficiency is the result of academic problems as determined by the teacher of the course. If it is due to work ethic as determined by the teacher, then the student athlete may be required to attend mandatory study hall Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings. This process will continue until the next grade report is issued. The student-athlete may continue their participation in athletics if they attend the mandatory tutoring or study hall sessions as required. Failure to attend the required tutoring will result in suspension from the team until the student-athlete meets the tutoring requirements.
   
• If at the next grading period the student - athlete has made Satisfactory Progress (as determined by the teacher of the course(s), the School Athletic Director and the Principal) in correcting the earlier grade deficiencies, the student-athlete will be allowed to return to non-probationary status. If the student-athlete has not made satisfactory progress in correcting grade deficiencies they will be prohibited from practice, games, and team functions until the point in time that the grade deficiencies have been corrected to an acceptable level.

Each athletic team at Strong Rock Christian School will have the most objective method possible to pick teams for the sports that have tryouts to determine their final team roster. Each Head Coach will submit to the Athletic Director a written plan detailing the criteria and procedures used for determining team membership. The criteria will be clearly communicated in writing to all potential team members prior to the beginning of any tryout sessions and the results of tryout evaluations will be documented and available for review at the conclusion of any tryout period.  Include the following:

• Dates and length for try-outs
• Set measurable expectations that you will be evaluating
• Keep a written evaluation and be ready to show and tell.
• Meet with students face to face; be willing to give advice and counseling for students who do not make the team.
• Be ready and willing to meet with parents.

 

8.1  Dual Athletic Participation

Strong Rock Christian School encourages participation in all areas of the athletic department. However, because of scheduling conflicts, student - athletes are prohibited to participate in multiple (more than one) sports within an independent season (not including summer athletics). Exception to this rule is as follows:

• If a student - athlete requests to participate in two concurring sports, a meeting must be arranged for the Head coaches of the two sports, the student-athlete and parents, and the school Athletic Director. This group will decide if it is beneficial for the student-athlete, the individual sports, and the total athletic department for dual participation within a season.  Parameters will also be set during this meeting before dual athletic participation is approved.

 

8.2  Gender Equity

Strong Rock Christian School is committed to providing equal opportunities and treatment for both sexes. Any concerns regarding such issues should be brought to the attention of and discussed with the school Athletic Director, Principal and Head Coach of the sport in which the concerns exist. Strong Rock Christian School reserves the right to make decisions for the best interest of the school and school community. 

9.1  Absences

Strong Rock Christian School policy prohibits participation in any extracurricular activity if a student is not present at school for at least one-half of the school day unless there is a clear and justifiable reason for the absence. Any student who is absent for more than one-half of a school day and wishes to participate in an extracurricular activity on that day must receive approval to do so by the Athletic Director.
 

9.2  Missed Practices, Games, Team Functions

Student - athletes are encouraged to attend all practices, games, and team functions as a part of developing and displaying dedication and commitment to the activity in which they wish to participate. The student - athlete should contact the Head Coach prior to missing or being tardy to practices, games, and team functions for the absence or tardy to be classified as excused. The Head Coach will consider emergency situations where contact may not be possible. Consequences for excused and unexcused absences from practices, games and team functions will be at the discretion of the Head Coach and clearly outlined in the individual sports' 'Player Contract' on file with the school Athletic Director and the Head Coach.
 

9.3  Practices: In - Season

Although practice schedules differ from sport to sport it is our philosophy that our student - athletes are students first and athletes second. We strongly encourage our coaching staff to take this philosophy into consideration when developing practice and game schedules. There may not be any mandatory or voluntary practices on Sundays. All Wednesday practices will begin no earlier than 3:15 p.m. and will dismiss by 5:30 p.m. with the aim for student-athletes to leave by 5:45 p.m.
 

9.4  Practices: Off-Season

Practices held during the off-season may not be mandatory nor may they be a prerequisite for participation or membership on a team. This means that a coach cannot require a student-athlete to make up a practice they miss out of season. While rewards and incentives may be used to encourage attendance, participation may not be made mandatory. Please note that the GIAA does permit off-season practices to take place in sports. Since many of our student-athletes play multiple sports, coaches are discouraged from encouraging student-athletes involved in other sports to participate in workouts, etc. for their sport during the off-season. Please feel free to call the Athletic Director if you have any questions about off-season practices.

Students involved in all extracurricular activities at Strong Rock Christian School will be provided transportation to and from all events. The student-athletes at Strong Rock Christian School will often have a bus provided by Strong Rock Christian School and a trained driver to drive this bus. This is the safest way for your son and/or daughter to get to and from events. Student-athletes at Strong Rock Christian School will not be released to any individual to ride private transportation following contests except the student-athlete's parent(s) or legal guardian. In this case, which is discouraged except in cases of emergency, the parent(s) or legal guardian will have to provide a written request to the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete is participating 24 hours in advance. Under no circumstances will student-athletes be allowed to be transported by any driver that is not on the "Approved Driver" list that is on file at the school. It is NEVER appropriate for a student to transport another student to/from an athletic practice or event. In the event of a late afternoon or evening practice, students that do not have a driver's license, may not leave campus between the end of the school day and the beginning of practice. A study hall or team gathering area will be provided by the head coach. If a student has a driver's license, they may leave campus if and only if, the head coach is provided with a signed permission form for the entire season.

10.1  Early Dismissals

Students need to check with teachers for assignments and tests prior to release.  Students are required to make up tests and assignments based on our handbook and teacher syllabus.

Student - athletes are expected to complete the season of the sport in which they are participating in its' entirety. However, we recognize that conflicts do arise and that there may be no other satisfactory solution than for a student-athlete to leave the team. If such a situation occurs, it is requested that the student-athlete and their parent(s) meet with the Head Coach, the school Athletic Director, and / or the Principal to discuss the reason(s) for quitting the sport. If a resolution cannot be reached that would allow for continued participation, then all parties will agree that this is the best course of action.  If a student - athlete quits one sport, he/she will not be allowed to participate in another sport until the first team’s season is over. A conference with Athletic Director, the Head Coach of the sport which the student-athlete quit, and the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete wishes to participate will need to take place. The welfare of the school's total athletic program, the teams involved, and the student-athlete will be considerations as to whether the student-athlete will be allowed to participate. Both long-term and short-term effects will be considerations in reaching a final decision.

12.1 Conflicts among Extracurricular Activities

Strong Rock Christian School encourages students to become involved in a variety of extracurricular activities according to their individual interests and skills. The faculty and staff at Strong Rock Christian School are committed to working together to allow maximum student involvement. We recognize that this philosophy will result in conflicts between the many extracurricular activities from time to time. Head Coaches and/or Sponsors, the school Athletic Director and/or Academic Events Coordinator along with the student and parent(s) will meet to work out a satisfactory solution based on the following considerations:

• Best interests of the school.
• Best interests of the student.
• Best interests of the team / activity.

A student-athlete may be awarded a letter by completing the season in a varsity sport only and should be earned through dedication and commitment to that sport and making a significant contribution to the total team effort throughout the entire season. The criteria for lettering will be if a student-athlete completes the varsity season in good standing as determined by the Head Coach of the sport. AFTER a student-athlete has met the criteria for lettering, they are eligible for a letter jacket. Letter jacket fitting/ordering meetings will be held once per school year. A sport specific pin will be awarded for a first-time letter winner. All successive letters will be awarded in the form of a “bar” for the student-athlete’s jacket. If a pin or bar needs to be replaced by the school because it was lost or broken, the student-athlete will be charged $3.00 for each.

If you are a prospective student-athlete at a Division I or II college or university, you have certain responsibilities to attend to before you may participate. Information concerning who needs to register with the Clearinghouse and what documents will be submitted can be found in The Guide for College-Bound Student-Athletes on the NCAA website, www.ncaastudent.org

Each student-athlete is a representative of Strong Rock Christian School, the community, their family, and themselves. The actions and appearance of the student-athlete will be viewed by others as a direct reflection of each of these entities. It is the responsibility of each student-athlete to conduct himself or herself in such a manner as to not bring shame and ridicule to all these entities. Any actions that violate this principle will not be tolerated and severe or continuous behavior to that effect may result in suspension of playing privileges or permanent removal from the team or activity. In reference to this responsibility:

• Conduct of a Student-athlete in the classroom and in the total school environment:
  It is our belief and expectation that a good student-athlete will portray himself or herself as a positive role model. A lack of dedication and commitment to uphold this standard throughout the total school environment will translate into a similar lack of dedication and commitment in athletics. We expect each student-athlete to conduct himself or herself in such a manner as to exemplify the positive qualities of giving maximum effort to attain success in the classroom and in all other school activities. We also expect each student-athlete to conduct himself or herself as a positive role model by adhering to accepted standards of conduct and behavior in the classroom and throughout the school.
   
• Conduct of the student athlete in athletic participation: 
  It is our belief and expectation that each student athlete should conduct himself or herself as a winner no matter whether they or their team has won or lost an athletic contest. All opponents have worked equally hard to attain success and should be treated with the utmost respect in all situations. Each student athlete should also conduct himself or herself in practices and games in such a manner as to not be detrimental to the specific athletic team, the entire athletic program of the school, the school as a whole and the community.
   
• Grooming and dress policy for student athletes: 
  As representatives of Strong Rock Christian School, the community, their family, and themselves, student athletes are expected to adhere to all dress code policies as stipulated by the Strong Rock Christian School Family Handbook. Individual Head Coaches may require more stringent rules regarding grooming and dress policies for student athletes on their team; however, those rules must at least meet the minimum requirements as stated in the Strong Rock Christian School Family Handbook. Violations will be dealt with both as a school disciplinary issue as well as a violation of school athletic policy and should be addressed by the Head Coach of the sport in which the student athlete is a current participant.

Student-athletes that do not adhere to the Strong Rock Christian School Family Handbook on a consistent basis will be subject to the following penalties:

• On a LEVEL 3 disciplinary action (Saturday School), the student-athlete will face a suspension equal to 5% of the total number of regular seasons scheduled contests for the sport for which they are competing at the time. This suspension will occur in the next immediate contest following the Saturday School. The student-athlete will continue to practice and participate in team functions during the suspension period. Disciplinary actions taken by the school may be supplemented by additional team disciplinary action as deemed appropriate and within reason by the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete is a participant.
   

• On a LEVEL 4 disciplinary action (Out of school suspension the student-athlete will face a suspension equal to 10% of the total number of regular seasons scheduled contests for the sport for which they are competing at the time. In addition, the student-athlete will be placed on Athletic Probation for one calendar year and must adhere to the terms stated later in this document. Disciplinary actions taken by the school may be supplemented by additional team disciplinary action as deemed appropriate and within reason by the Head Coach of the sport in which the student-athlete is a participant.
   

• Any inappropriate actions taken by a student-athlete while participating in athletic practices and/or games that are violations of the Strong Rock Christian School Code of Conduct shall be reported by the Head Coach of that sport to the school administration as a disciplinary referral and will be subject to be included in stipulations (a) and (b) above.
   

• Any student-athlete ejected from a GIAA contest will be subject to penalties as outlined under the GIAA Constitution and By-Laws. In addition, any student-athlete that is determined to have acted in a manner that is a violation of the expectations will be subject to suspension or removal from the team after a conference involving the school Athletic Director and/or Principal, the Head Coach, the student-athlete and their parent(s).

The Athletic Department of Strong Rock Christian School believes that training rules and regulations are an essential part of achieving the stated objectives for participation in athletics.

17.1 Tobacco and/or Vaping

The purchase and use of tobacco are illegal by any student under the age of 18. Therefore, the possession and/or use of tobacco in any form by a student-athlete will not be tolerated by the athletic programs at Strong Rock Christian School. This will apply to student-athletes both at and away from school as well as in or out of season. This rule will be inclusive of any student-athlete participating in athletics at Strong Rock Christian School regardless of age. The penalties for the violation of this policy will be as follows:

• 1st Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school – related function); suspension from participation equal to 5% of the of the total number of regular season scheduled contests for the sport for which they are competing at the time of the incident; student-athlete placed on probationary status with the school athletic department.
   
• 2nd Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school – related function); removal from the team for the remainder of the current season; the student-athlete will be required to enter into an athletic department contract agreement before the student-athlete is allowed to participate in any further athletics at Strong Rock Christian School.
   

17.2 Alcohol and/or Drugs

The purchase and use of alcohol are illegal for any student under the age of 21. The possession and use of drugs are illegal. Also, the misuse or distribution of prescription drugs is illegal. Therefore, the possession and/or use of alcohol and/or drugs in any form by a student-athlete will not be tolerated by the athletic programs of Strong Rock Christian School. This will apply to student-athletes both at and away from school as well as in or out of season. This rule will be inclusive of any student-athlete participating in athletics at Strong Rock Christian School regardless of age. The penalties for violation of this policy will be as follows:

• 1st Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school function): suspension from participation equal to 10% of the total number of regular seasons scheduled contests for the sport for which they are competing at the time of the incident. The student-athlete will continue to practice during the suspension period; student-athlete placed on probationary status with the school athletic department; the student-athlete and their parent(s) will be required to enter into an athletic department contract agreement before the student-athlete is allowed to participate in any further athletics at Strong Rock Christian School.
   
• 2nd Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school function); removal from ALL athletic participation for one calendar year.
   

17.3 Social Media Outlets

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 Strong Rock Christian School. This includes derogatory comments toward staff, coaches, students, or stakeholders within Strong Rock Christian School. As stated above, this policy applies to student-athletes both at and away from school as well as in or out of season. This rule will be inclusive of any student-athlete participating in athletics at Strong Rock Christian School regardless of age. The penalties for violation of this policy will be as follows:

• 1st Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school function): suspension from participation equal to 5% of the total number of regular seasons scheduled contests for the sport for which they are competing at the time of the incident. The student-athlete will continue to practice during the suspension period; student-athlete placed on probationary status with the school athletic department; the student-athlete and their parent(s) will be required to enter into an athletic department contract agreement before the student-athlete is allowed to participate in any further athletics at Strong Rock Christian School.
   
• 2nd Offense: School Disciplinary Referral (if at school or at a school function); removal from ALL athletic participation for one calendar year.

18.1  Participation Awards

Each student-athlete at Strong Rock Christian School that completes their team’s season in good standing will be awarded either a:

• certificate of participation for Junior Varsity and/or Academy competition
• a varsity letter for Varsity competition

Student-athletes will also be awarded patches for their letter jackets for being a member of a team that is a region champion, state runner-up, or state champion. Also, if a student is a region champion, state runner-up or state champion in an individual event or competition they will be awarded a patch for their letter jacket.

18.2 Special Recognition Awards

Individual awards for student-athletes will be given at the discretion of the Head Coach and the coaching staff. Special recognition awards include All-Region/Area and All-State, which are chosen by area coaches. Recognition will occur at the Athletic Awards Ceremony that recognizes that sport.

18.3  Senior Athletic Awards

Senior Athletic Awards will be awarded in Spring.

18.4  Three/Four Sport Athlete Awards

Student-athletes that have participated in three or more varsity sports in an individual school year will be given a 3-4 Sport Athlete Award. Recognition will occur at the Spring Athletic Awards Ceremony. The student-athletes will also be honored at the annual Tri-Athlete luncheon.

18.5  Patriot Award

The Patriot Award is chosen by the coach of each varsity team in recognition of the student-athlete that best displays Christian leadership qualities within the team. Specifically, this student-athlete develops the team, coaches, and supporters by his/her participation. 

18.6  Athletic Awards and Banquets

We are no longer holding seasonal award ceremonies.  Each sport will hold a banquet and recognize their athletes for lettering and specific awards.

Varsity sports will give a plaque for the following:

• Patriot Award and 2 others (HC choice); Coaches can use certificates to recognize achievements
• JV and academy sports will give (1) plaque and certificates

There are several issues concerning student-athlete safety that Strong Rock Christian School has addressed and will continue to address along-side of the Georgia Independent Athletic Association.

 

19.1 Heat and Humidity Policy

Schools must follow the statewide policy for conducting practices and voluntary conditioning workouts in all sports during times of extremely high heat and/or humidity that will be signed by each head coach at the beginning of each season and distributed to all players and their parents or guardians. The policy shall follow modified guidelines of the American College of Sports Medicine regarding: 

• The scheduling of practices at various heat/humidity levels

• The ratio of workout time to time allotted for rest and hydration at various heat/humidity levels

• The heat/humidity level that will result in practice being terminated

 

19.2 Concussion Guidelines

If a Coach observes a Student-Athlete exhibit any sign, symptom, or behavior consistent with a concussion or head injury, the Coach must immediately remove that Student-Athlete from practice, conditioning, or game. The Student-Athlete may not return to practice, conditioning, or game until a Health Care Provider has determined that the Student-Athlete has not suffered a concussion. In the case where a Health Care Provider has determined that the student-athlete has suffered a concussion, the student-athlete may not resume practice, conditioning, or participation in games until medically determined capable of doing so for full or graduated return. In no circumstance may a student-athlete return to practice, conditioning, or a game on the same day that a concussion has been diagnosed by a Health Care Provider or cannot be ruled out,

 

19.3 Accident/Injury Reporting

When a student-athlete has an accident or is injured during practice or competition the coach must complete an accident report form to turn-in to school trainer. The forms can be obtained at the school office. These forms are very important if insurance claims are filed later. The originals of these forms will be kept on file in the Athletic Director’s office. When a student-athlete consults with a physician to determine playing status, documentation from the physician’s office must be provided to the school. Furthermore, appropriate documentation must also be provided before the student will be allowed to resume participation in athletics.

 

19.4 Limits of Participation

The Georgia Independent Athletic Association recognizes a difference between male and female sports. Strong Rock Christian School offers a variety of male sports and female sports at the Academy and High School level. Due to this abundant offering and the Georgia Independent Athletic Association recognizing a difference in male and female athletic activities, Strong Rock Christian School allows for females to participate in the assigned female sports and males to participate in the assigned male sports for the Academy and High School.
 

19.5 Lightning Policy

The purpose of these guidelines is to provide a default policy to those responsible for making decisions concerning the suspension and restarting of contests based on the presence of lightning. The preferred sources from which to request such a policy for your facility would include your state high school association and the nearest office of the National Weather Service.
 
During all games, referees will make any lightning determinations after meeting with the person responsible for tracking any lightning for that contest.
 

• When lightning is detected within 15 miles of the venue, a “Heads Up” is given to everyone in the venue. “We are tracking a storm and if we see a lightning strike within the 7-10-mile range, we will clear the venue”.
• When lightning is detected within 7-10 miles of the venue, an announcement is made to clear the venue and move all spectators into “safe locations”. 
• 30 minutes after the last tracked lightning strike at least 10 miles from the event site, the “All Clear” can be given and play can resume.
• Any subsequent thunder or lightning after the beginning of the 30-minute count reset the clock and another 30-minute count should begin.

EFFECTIVE OUTCOMES:

Technical - To develop the fundamental sport skills needed to progress to compete.

Tactical - To develop the strategic understanding of the game and competition, the sports IQ.

Physical - To develop movement patterns, relative strength, power, speed, agility and fitness to play more and play better.

---

EXCEPTIONAL EXPERIENCES:

Social - To develop positive interaction with students, faculty, parents & the community.

Spiritual- To develop and foster growth through spiritual and biblical character development and a service mindset.

Leadership - To develop skills and provide opportunities to lead others to get to difficult but desirable destinations.

P

PASSION "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,” - Colossians 3:23

A

ACCOUNTABILITY
"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

T

TOGETHERNESS
"I appeal to you, brothers, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that all of you agree, and that there be no divisions among you, but that you be united in the same mind and the same judgment." 1 Corinthians 1:10

R

RESPECT FOR THE GAME - 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13
We will strive for excellence as coaches by teaching solid fundamentals, building leaders, and developing the best offensive and defensive schemes to fit our personnel.

We will always strive for excellence as players by giving our best and encouraging others to give their best.

We will strive for excellence as fans by modeling Christ in promoting an environment that is rich in sportsmanship.

I

INTEGRITY
"For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding; he stores up sound wisdom for the upright; he is a shield to those who walk in integrity," Proverbs 2:6-7

O

OWNERSHIP
"Or do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit within you, whom you have from God? You are not your own, for you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body.” 1 Corinthians 6:19-20

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TRUE EXCELLENCE
"Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things." Philippians 4:8

Strong Rock Elementary athletics program is based on participation. There will be a try-out period to determine student’s level of play. Students will be placed on either a Red or Blue team for that season of sport to compete in. Students on a Red team will have equal playing minutes divided among all members o the team. Students on a Blue team will get as much equal playing time as possible in an athletic event with the coach determining who will play in the last few minutes of a close contest. Competition may be intramural or extramural depending on sport and season.

3rd Grade
Red Team – This team is for the beginning athlete just learning the concepts and skills of the game.

Blue Team – This team member should have an intermediate knowledge of the rules and strategy of the game. This athlete should have an intermediate skill set, such as completing passes on target 50% of the time or sometimes able to serve over the net.

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4th Grade
Red Team – This athlete is still working toward a better understanding of rules and strategies, while improving on basic skills.

Blue Team – This athlete should have knowledge of the rules but is still developing strategy and skills. For example; they can dribble well with dominant foot but still working on non-dominant foot or have the ability to pull flags 5 out of 10 times.

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5th Grade
Red Team – The Red team member could be a first timer, or a return player with intermediate skills.

Blue Team – This team member has the knowledge they need, but are working on consistency in their skill set.

* The coaching staff and sport directors may progress or regress a student athlete team placement as needed to provide better opportunities to learn a skill or improve understanding of a sport. Some athletic offerings may or may not have multiple teams depending on athletes available or the competitive demands of the athletic activity involved

Game-Day Guidelines:

• All parents, students, and fans MUST remain in the stands or behind designated areas. Designated areas can be identified by barricades, ropes, or banners. Parents should not be in team areas at any time during practice or games except when asked by team officials, a coach, athletic trainer, or student manager.
• Athletes must wear the issued uniform/attire for all games.
• Athletes must follow team rules and guidelines established by the head coach.
• Strong Rock Christian School will not tolerate profanity, inappropriate behavior, or poor sportsmanship from players, fans or coaches. Players and fans may be subject to suspension from the game or team if in violation.

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Game-Day Attire:

The official game day in school attire for Monday – Friday is:

• School uniform

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Practice Guidelines:

• Elementary sports program practices are after school (generally Tuesdays) as scheduled by the Head Coach and last for no longer than 60 minutes.
• Students are not allowed access to any facilities without proper supervision. Practices may not begin without a coach present.
• Cleats are not allowed in the gym, sports court, or athletic training facility. Muddy shoes are to be removed before entering any building. Only appropriate shoes are to be used on gym floor.
• No unsupervised playing in the gym or sports court at ANY time. All athletes must abide by posted rules.

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Strong Rock Elementary Athlete Participation Requirements:

A student is ineligible to participate until the following requirements have been completed:

• A physical exam or doctor’s release must be on file in the athletic or nurse’s office.
• All academic or behavioral eligibility requirements are satisfied.
• The medical and authorization release forms must be on file in the athletic office.
• A signed handbook sheet is on file with the athletics secretary.

• Support your student athlete’s athletic experience by taking an interest in the experience of the whole team.
• Model good sportsmanship for your student athlete by respecting opponents and officials. Cheer for Strong Rock’s teams and not against the opponents.
• Let your student athlete know that, win or lose, he/she is loved and his/her efforts are appreciated.
• Respect the coach. Do not coach from the stands. Do not raise concerns with the coach immediately before or after a contest. (This is not a time when issues can nor should be resolved.)

Team Parent Responsibilities:

The team parent will be the main line of communication between the coach and the other parents of team members. Team Parents will be contacted about game changes, as well as other pertinent information; they in turn will pass on these communications to the rest of the parents. The team parent will also be responsible for organizing the team snacks.

1. The athlete should meet with her/his coach first.
2. Next, the parent should talk to their child’s coach. However, never meet with the coach immediately before or after a contest. Please contact the coach at least 24 hours after by phone or email to arrange an appropriate meeting.
3. Meeting with the Elementary Athletic Director, please contact the Assistant to the Athletic Director to arrange a meeting time.
4. If your issues are still unresolved, contact the Elementary office to meet with the Principal. 

* Appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches are: (1) mental and physical treatment of your child; (2) ways to help your child improve; and (3) concerns about your child's behavior.

* Issues that are not appropriate to discuss with coaches are: (1) team strategy; (2) play calling; and (3) other student athletes.

* Following these steps will demonstrate respect for the game and all individuals involved and allow our student athletes to see proper methods and means of conflict resolution.

Fans (both students and adults) are an important and integral part of every athletic contest. They serve to authenticate the positive values learned through athletics and to support the personal efforts and successes of individual players. Occasionally, fan behavior can harm an athletic event. The following is to provide clarity about inappropriate behavior. At all Strong Rock athletic events, it is inappropriate to engage in:

• Taunting
• Verbal abuse of officials, coaches, players, or opposing fans Any obscene gestures
• Throwing objects
• Signs or posters that degrade teams, officials, or players Vandalism
• Violence
• Consumption of drugs or alcohol

Events on and off-campus on Saturday will require the family to procure travel to the competition site. If for some reason a student needs to leave with his/her parent, a coach must be notified prior to leaving. Students may only leave with their parent unless authorized in writing and approved by the Head Coach and Athletic Director ahead of time.

*Parents transporting students other than their own need to contact the Director of Human Relations to become an approved carpool driver.

Injury Procedures:

• Athletes must report all injuries to their coach and the Athletic Trainer (if available) as soon as possible. When a student athlete has an accident or is injured during practice or competition the coach must complete an accident report form to turn-in to school officials. The forms can be obtained at the school office. These forms are very important if insurance claims are filed later. The originals of these forms will be kept on file in the Athletic Director’s office. When a student athlete consults with a physician to determine playing status, documentation from the physician’s office must be provided to the school. Furthermore, appropriate documentation must also be provided before the student will be allowed to resume participation in athletics.
• Any athlete unable to complete a practice due to injury will be required to obtain clearance from the Athletic Trainer (if available) or a physician to return to practice or games.
• An injured athlete is still considered a part of the team and expected to be present at games and practices, unless requested by the parent and released by the coach.
• Athletes should check their equipment daily for proper fit and report any issues to coaches.

The mission of Strong Rock Christian School is to glorify God and partner with families in educating and inspiring their children to impact the world for Jesus Christ – The Strong Rock.

Our Speech:

1. 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 shows poor sportsmanship. In baseball, making noise while an opponent is at bat shows poor sportsmanship.
2. 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”
3. 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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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:

1. Develop unity within your team. “It is amazing what can be accomplished when no one cares who gets the credit.” John Wooden
2. 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.
3. Develop unity within the Kingdom. Our opponents are not our enemy. 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:

1. Be Motivated by the Love of God. Live for Him because He died for us.
2. Strive for victory in order to Glorify God. Athletics is just a means to an end and not an end unto itself.
3. Demonstrating 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.
4. 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:

1. The athlete will maintain a good reputation. The athlete’s character will be in good standing with the administration, faculty, staff and church.
2. The athlete will meet all eligibility requirements.
3. 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.
4. The athlete will show respect for all coaches, trainers and all staff personnel. This includes the game plans, methods and philosophies.
5. 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.
6. The athlete will maintain a high standard of appearance. Both in and out of the arena the athlete will adhere to the strictest interpretations of the school dress code and the team dress and uniform code.

7. 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.

8. The athlete will never engage in fighting. The athlete will always maintain self-control. Un- sportsman-like conduct penalties will not be tolerated and will have consequences. Consequences include, but are not limited to, suspensions or dismissal from the team.

9. 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.”