HANDBOOK

STUDENT-ATHLETE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FROM THE ATHLETIC

DIRECTOR 2

MISSION | VISION |

VALUES 3

FACULTY ATHLETICS

REPRESENTATIVE 4

CODE OF CONDUCT 5

STUDENT SUCCESS

SERVICES 11

NCAA COMPLIANCE 19

STUDENT-ATHLETE

WELLNESS 32

ATHLETICS

COMMUNICATION 48

WELCOME

GOVS

Support your classmates and fellow

student-athletes by showing up and

being active on campus. Additionally,

support the Clarksville and regional

communities by being involved through

community service opportunities and

outreach programs.

As Governors, see no borders, and be

daring in all that we do. I expect us to

raise the bar; I challenge us to think.

Success will not lower its standards to

us, we must RAISE our standards to

success. It is our responsibility and duty

to leave Clarksville and Austin Peay in a

better place than when we arrived.

Third, you are expected to demonstrate

championship level sportsmanship and

effort each time you compete. I believe

we can and will win championships

together the right way. Finally, I want

each of you to know that we are

available. Should you need anything,

please don’t hesitate to contact anyone

in the administration office, myself

included.

This is going to be an exciting year for

Austin Peay Athletics, and I will proudly

cheer you on as you charge forward on

the relentless pursuit of excellence!

SEE RED!

Gerald Harrison

Director of Athletics

FROM THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR

It is a great day to be a Governor!

Welcome to Stacheville and Austin

Peay State University. I am so glad you

are on our team, and I look forward to

getting to know you.

Our number one priority at Austin Peay

is to provide you with an exceptional

student-athlete experience. My

expectations for you as a student-

athlete are three-fold.

First, go to class and succeed in the

classroom. After all, earning a degree

will provide the opportunities to

enhance your life once you leave; being

an athlete is temporary, your education

is worth a lifetime.

Second, be great citizens and partners

of this campus, community, state, and

college athletics.

MISSION | VISION | VALUES

AND KEY ATHLETICS POLICIES

MISSION

Austin Peay Athletics mission is to facilitate a culture of excellence that

equips and empowers our GOVS for lifelong success.

VISION

To be the premier mid-major Division I athletics department by providing

our student-athletes with an exceptional experience in a culture of

excellence for all Governors.

VALUES

Growth – Fostering an environment of personal, academic, and

professional growth and wellness that allows student-athletes to purse

excellence in all aspects of their college experience.

Opportunity – Providing transformational opportunities. Equipping

student-athletes with the opportunities and resources to positively

transform their lives.

Victory – Experiencing victory in competition by consistently

competing for championships. Experiencing victory in the classroom by

excelling academically, while preparing GOVS to experience victory in

life and to thrive after APSU.

Synergy – Collaborating and cultivating partnerships with campus and

community leaders to increase APSU Athletics visibility.

TOTAL GOV CONCEPT

The foundation of the ‘Total Gov’ concept is to expect success, attack

challenges with enthusiasm and believe there is a way to perform to our

fullest potential.

We seek for all Governors to pursue excellence in all aspects of their

experience: leadership development, professional development,

personal growth and wellness, and community outreach.

EQUITY AND DIVERSITY

It is the objective of Austin Peay State University to provide men and

women with educational opportunities to achieve their fullest potential,

both as individuals and as members of society. It is therefore imperative

that artificial barriers to achievement be eliminated and that the only limits

placed on the potential of individuals be those of their own abilities. The

University is committed to a nondiscriminatory philosophy that extends to

all constituents. In its educational activities, all are treated equally without

regard to race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex, sexual

orientation or gender identity, disability, age or status as a covered

veteran.

APSU may have gender specific sports teams. If there is a question about

eligibility to participate in women’s athletics, eligibility shall be determined

in accordance with Tennessee Public Chapter 1005, Section 2.

FACULTY

The FAR should work to ensure, either directly or indirectly, that student-athletes meet

all NCAA, conference and institutional requirements.

The FAR will ensure that academic eligibility certification should be performed by a

person outside of the Department of Athletics.

The FAR should be involved with all reports and evaluations of the academic

preparation and performance of all student-athletes in order to uphold high academic

standards.

The FAR shall work as part of the Compliance Committee and be responsible for

compliance activities or activities which involve campus entities outside the athletics

department.

The FAR shall participate in, or be fully aware of, investigations of rules violations and

allegations. He or she should play a major role in matters that may involve serious

violations of NCAA rules.

The FAR shall have direct contact with student-athletes on a systematic and periodic

basis. Student-athletes must recognize the FAR as someone outside of the athletics

department.

The FAR shall work closely with the Athletics Director, Senior Woman Administrator,

and other members of the Athletics Administration in order to formulate and

recommend institutional positions on NCAA legislation and other matters affecting, or

related to, intercollegiate athletics on campus.

The FAR shall represent the institution to the NCAA and to the ASUN.

The FAR shall chair the University Athletics Committee.

The Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) is a position designated by the NCAA to work

in conjunction with the President, the Athletics Director, the Senior Woman Administrator,

Athletics Academic Services, and the Compliance Office to assure that the University is

meeting its goals with regard to NCAA rules compliance, academic integrity, equity and

diversity, and student-athlete well-being. The FAR should be a full-time faculty member

selected by the President and will report directly to the President. As a faculty member,

the FAR must be considered an employee under the supervision of the Provost and not the

Athletics Director.

Dr. Jennifer Thayer

APSU Faculty Athletics Representative

Assistant Professor Accounting, Finance,

& Economics

[email protected]

931-221-7683

ATHLETIC REPRESNTATIVE

CODE OF

CONDUCT

STUDENT-ATHLETE

STUDENT ATHLETE RESPONSIBILITIES AND EXPECTATIONS

As a student-athlete, you have elected to become representatives of APSU. With this, a

student who chooses to be an athlete will be held to a higher standard of conduct than

the regular student body. It is a privilege to be a student-athlete at Austin Peay State

University.

Every student-athlete is expected to demonstrate a behavior (on- and off-campus and in

cyberspace communities) that exhibits honor and respect to their team, department,

University, and community for the duration of his or her tenure as a student-athlete. You

are expected to conform to all federal, state and local laws as well as University Code of

Conduct regulations. Likewise, student-athletes are expected to abide by all policies,

guidelines, and rules set forth by APSU, the Athletics Department, the ASUN and the

NCAA. Student-athletes are also expected to abide by individual team rules which may

supplement the university, ASUN or NCAA rules. Students prosecuted for violating public

laws are not exempt from further penalties by University authorities if their actions also

violate University rules. In addition, the Athletics Department and respective coaches

reserve the right to implement additional sanctions. Each student-athlete agrees to the

following principles, expectations and responsibilities.

REPORTING OBLIGATION

Every student-athlete is obligated to report his or her violations of this Code of Conduct

to his or her Head Coach or the Director of Athletics within 24 hours of such violation.

This obligation is in effect year-round, including semester and summer breaks. Student-

athletes also have a responsibility to notify the Department of Athletics of any activities

which occurred prior to their enrollment at Austin Peay State University.

Follow institutional policies on academic integrity;

Attend all classes and complete all academic assignments;

Consult with athletic academic advisors and attend tutoring sessions as directed;

Follow athletic academic services and/or coach-directed requirements for mandatory

student hall hours;

Maintain an academic course load of at least 12 hours per semester and make

satisfactory progress towards a degree (as stipulated by NCAA bylaws)

Abide by all team, APSU Athletics, University, ASUN and NCAA rules.

Abide by team practice and sport competition rules and regulations.

Promptly report any knowledge of a violation of ASUN or NCAA rules and regulations.

Keep oneself in top physical condition within accepted health standards.

Report promptly to and attend all organized and required practices, games,

rehabilitation and medical evaluation sessions, travel and meetings unless officially

excused.

Treat teammates, officials, opponents, and coaches with respect while displaying good

sportsmanship.

Understand and comply with the APSU Code of Student Conduct

Abide by all federal, state, and local laws;

Display appropriate conduct while interacting with University faculty, administrative,

and sports medicine staff, coaches, and members of the Clarksville community.

Student-athlete conduct should not reflect negatively on the image to the team, APSU

Athletics, or APSU;

Refrain from behaviors which can be interpreted as sexual harassment, hazing, and

general misconduct;

Demonstrate responsibility by ensuring hazing activities do not occur;

Demonstrate honesty and truthfulness in all communication and behavior;

Abide by all University rules, policies, and regulations;

Follow all reasonable directives from coaches and Athletics staff members;

Abide by all APSU Athletics, ASUN and NCAA drug education and testing program

policies.

ACADEMICS

The most important mission of APSU is to provide all students with an outstanding

education, to instill in students habits of critical inquiry as they gain knowledge, skills and

values for life and work in a global society. As a student-athlete, an individual must be

committed to the following principles:

ATHLETICS

The conduct of student-athletes is also governed by ASUN and NCAA policies in addition

to APSU Athletics and University policies, procedures, practices and codes of conduct.

Therefore, the student-athlete agrees to follow these principles:

ETHICS

All APSU students are governed by a set of ethical standards of behavior as outlined in

the APSU Code of Student Conduct. Student-athletes agree to the following behavioral

guidelines:

CODE OF CONDUCT

Any type of initiation or other activity where a person is expected to participate in

behavior designed to humiliate, degrade or abuse them.

Forcing, requiring, or pressuring a person to consume alcohol or any other substance.

Forcing, requiring or pressuring a person to tattoo, pierce or shave any part of the

body.

Any requirement or pressure to participate in any activity that is illegal, perverse and

publicly indecent, contrary to generally accepted social norms and/or beliefs.

Required eating of anything a person wouldn’t otherwise consume.

Any activity or action that creates a risk to the health, safety or property of the

University or any member of its community.

Physical abuse of any kind.

Engaging in public stunts or buffoonery.

Nudity at any time or forced reading, listening or viewing of pornographic material.

Morally degrading/humiliating games or other activity that makes a person the object

of amusement, ridicule or intimidation.

INTERNET/SOCIAL NETWORKING

Appropriate and ethical conduct also applies to any information that is submitted

electronically (e.g. email) or posted on any social media platform (e.g. Facebook, Twitter,

YouTube, Instagram, Snap Chat, Tik Tok, etc.). You must be conscious of the potential

fallouts associated with online social networks or communities. You are not barred from

participation in such activities, however you are representatives of APSU at all times and

your comments or postings on these sites are reflective of APSU. You should conduct

yourself in the same manner as you would conduct yourself in the APSU and Clarksville

community. Inappropriate content (e.g. pictures, messages) should never by posted on

any social media platform at any time and all public postings are subject to review by the

Athletics department. Remember, no matter where you are, you are always in an APSU

uniform, so conduct yourself in a way that reflects positively on the entire university.

CRIMINAL ACTIVITY POLICY

A student-athlete has a duty to report any instance of arrest for misdemeanors or felony,

to include those that occurred before initial enrollment at APSU.A student-athlete who is

arrested for a misdemeanor or felony will face consequences for their actions, which may

include dismissal from the team and immediate loss of financial aid. Failure of the student-

athlete to immediately report such incidents may result in dismissal from their respective

team and immediate loss of financial aid.

Any violation of the Athletics Department standards, or any action that is considered

detrimental to the team, department or university, including any criminal charges, is

subject to disciplinary action, which includes but is not limited to: dismissal from the

University, suspension, non-renewal of athletics aid, or removal from team; the severity of

which will depend on the violation, mitigating circumstances and jurisdiction.

HAZING POLICY

The Athletics Department is committed to preventing and eliminating any hazing

behavior which violates University rules, Tennessee law, or whose purpose is to humiliate,

demean, or devalue the worth of another person. Hazing is unlawful, criminal and will not

be tolerated. It runs counter to the mission of the university and athletics department to

provide a student with outstanding educational and athletic opportunities. Hazing will not

be tolerated at APSU.Any student-athlete or Athletics Department staff member involved

in a hazing incident is subject to University investigation and disciplinary proceedings as

well as civil and criminal penalties under Tennessee law. Examples of hazing include:

10.

CODE OF CONDUCT

11. Subjecting a person to cruel and unusual psychological or physical conditions.

If these type activities are required for any individual or group (not just freshman), it can

be considered hazing.

REPORTING SUSPECTED HAZING ACTIVITIES

The entire Athletics Department staff, as well as the student-athlete population, is

expected to help ensure compliance with this policy. If a person reasonably believes that

this policy has been violated, they should refer the matter to the appropriate individual

for investigation (Athletics Director, SWA, FAR, Athletics Academic Advisor, Compliance

Coordinator, Athletic Trainer, Office of Student Affairs). Individuals who have knowledge

of (either by viewing or participating) hazing activities must report and thoroughly

cooperate in the investigation of the activity by university officials. Those who do not

report, do not cooperate or who provide false or misleading information with respect to

the investigation will be subject to other violations of the Code of Student Conduct and

may be subject to sanctions and penalties.

DISCRIMINATION AND SEXUAL HARASSMENT

All faculty members, students and staff of APSU are subject to the Discrimination and

Harassment Policy as outlined at 6:001 Equal Opportunity, Harassment, and

Nondiscrimination Policy for all Faculty, Students, Staff, Applicants and Third Parties v.1

(navexone.com)

Harassment includes but is not limited to verbal or physical conduct by an individual

based on another individual’s age, ability, national origin, race, religion, sex or sexual

orientation that interferes or prevents the person from conducting his or her usual affairs,

puts the person in fear of his or her safety or causes actual physical injury. This may

include conduct such as making threatening phone calls, sending or posting

(electronically or otherwise) threatening letters, or the vandalism of a person’s property.

Any person found to be in violation of the Policy by engaging in behavior constituting

discrimination or harassment will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including

termination. All persons are responsible for taking reasonable and necessary action to

prevent and discourage all types of discrimination and harassment.

Should a student-athlete find themselves the recipient of discrimination or sexual

harassment, they are encouraged to respond clearly and directly as soon as it begins.

Depending on the circumstances, this may include; informing the athletics academic

advisor, coach or an athletic administrator that an incident has occurred; discussing the

incident confidentially with a representative of the University’s Affirmative Action Office

or Office of Student Life and Leadership or the appropriate dean; and/or informing the

harasser to stop. All incidents and complaints of sexual harassment are to be taken

seriously and will be referred to the appropriate university department and supervisor.

CAMPUS AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE POLICY

APSU Admissions does not exclude students from attending the University based on any

type of Title IX violation, conviction or felony. However, APSU Athletics must take

reasonable steps to confirm whether any incoming, continuing and transfer student-

athletes have been disciplined through a Title IX proceeding or criminally convicted of

sexual, interpersonal or other acts of violence. During the recruitment process, it is

incumbent upon the coaches to gather information that reasonably yields information

CODE OF CONDUCT

Provide information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities

concerning intercollegiate athletics competition;

Solicit a bet on any intercollegiate or professional team;

Accept a bet on any team representing the institution;

Solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate competition for any item that has

tangible value. This is not limited to cash bets. It is also illegal to bet for meals, clothes

or any other item.

Participate in any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics or

professional athletics through a bookmaker, parlay card or any other method

employed by organized gambling.

regarding such activities (i.e. google search, discussions with coaches/administrators

from previous institutions, etc.) prior to that student’s enrollment. Once signed or

committed to APSU, all incoming transfers and freshman will be required to fill out the

PROSPECTIVE STUDENT-ATHLETE CONDUCT VERIFICATION FORM. Should any

question be answered “YES” the student must disclose the findings and meet with the

Director of Athletics and Senior Woman Administrator to determine if the student will be

allowed to participate in APSU Athletics. The findings will be filed with the Office of

Equity, Access and Inclusion. Continuing student athletes will verify through an ARMS

workflow, along with other mandated NCAA forms, as to whether they have any Title IX

violation/conviction/felony. Any issues will be addressed as outlined for incoming

transfers and freshman. Educational meetings regarding Title IX may be warranted.

Should an athlete be found to have been dishonest or provided false information on the

conduct verification, they will be immediately dismissed permanently from all APSU

Athletics Teams and any athletic aid received will be removed.

ACADEMIC DISHONESTY, UNEXCUSED CLASS ABSENCES AND POOR ACADEMIC

PERFORMANCES

Student athletes will be held to the “Academic Policy and Procedures” found in the

University Undergraduate Bulletin. The Athletics Department expects student-athletes to

engage in all academic pursuits in a manner beyond reproach. Offenses against academic

honesty are any acts that would have an effect of unfairly promoting or enhancing one’s

academic standing, including cheating, plagiarism, or knowingly permitting or assisting

any person in the commission of an offense of academic dishonesty.

Student-athletes are expected to attend class regularly and punctually and to fulfill

academic requirements. Student-athletes are also expected to represent themselves in a

respectful and attentive manner in the classroom. Failure to meet such obligations may

affect eligibility to participate in team sports and to receive scholarships, as well as

academic standing.

GAMBLING

Sports wagering is seen as a serious violation by the athletics department, the University

and the NCAA. The NCAA has established strict guidelines and sanctions concerning

gambling activity by student-athletes. Student-athletes shall not knowingly participate in

any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics or professional athletics

through a bookmaker, parlay card or any other method employed by organized gambling.

NCAA Bylaw 10.3 states that student-athletes and staff members of the athletics

department shall not knowingly:

Do not become involved in sports “pools,” even those run by your friends in the dorm.

CODE OF CONDUCT

Student-athlete’s involvement in accepting or soliciting bets on their own institution

shall result in permanent loss of all eligibility.

Student-athlete’s involvement in any other type of sports wagering through organized

gambling shall result in at least one year loss of all eligibility.

Coaches should remove student athletes who demonstrate disrespect for an

opponent, official or others.

There can be no tolerance for taunting and baiting of opponents. ASUN students-

athletes must understand that they are perhaps the most visible representatives of

their institutions. Also, their behavior is observed and emulated by many who are

younger. ASUN student-athletes must honor the responsibilities that accompany the

privilege of representing our schools by behaving with dignity and class on and off the

field.

In the unfortunate event that an altercation occurs during a contest, all individuals who

are on the bench are expected to remain there.

In sports other than FCS football, the minimum penalty for any coach, student-athlete

or athletics staff member ejected from a Conference contest by an official shall be

suspension from the next Conference competition. Subsequent ejections in the same

season shall carry the minimum penalty of suspension from the next two scheduled

Conference regular season or postseason Conference contests. An individual serving a

suspension may not be in the playing facility for the time period beginning thirty (30)

minutes prior to the start of the contest and ending thirty (30) minutes after the

conclusion of the contest. The Commissioner may assess additional penalties as

appropriate. The minimum penalty described above is not subject to appeal.

In FCS football, any coach, student athlete, or athletics staff member ejected from a

Conference contest in the sport of FCS shall be assessed a minimum penalty in

accordance with NCAA Football Rules. The Commissioner may impose additional

rules.

NCAA PENALTIES FOR INVOLVEMENT IN GAMBLING ACTIVITIES

Student-athlete’s involvement in activities designed to influence outcomes or win/loss

margins (“fixing the game”) shall result in permanent loss of all eligibility.

FAILURE TO MEET TEAM OBLIGATIONS

Student-athletes must complete training requirements; arrive promptly for team

practices, meetings, and departures for away games and other team events; attend team

functions; and otherwise fulfill their responsibilities as team members. Absences must be

excused in advance by the Head Coach unless an unforeseeable emergency arises.

SPORTSMANSHIP

The ASUN is committed to establishing sportsmanship and developing healthy

environments for competition. This conference wants to lead the way in abolishing the

notion that it is desirable to create a “hostile” environment for intercollegiate athletics

contests. Instead, this Conference will strive to create “hospitable” environments. It is

believed that part of the role of education through sports is to teach our youth and our

communities to conduct themselves with sportsmanship and respect for all participants.

The following is a list of guidelines in the ASUN Sportsmanship Statement that pertain

directly to the student-athlete identifying expectations and repercussions for

unacceptable behavior:

SUCCESS

SERVICES

STUDENT-ATHLETE

Attend all class sessions, including labs and supplemental instruction. In addition,

being late to a class will not be tolerated.

Attend all required study halls, academic meetings, and tutoring sessions.

Communicate with instructors regarding team travel. Make arrangements to make-up

tests, quizzes, and homework assignments in advance.

Not drop a class or change your major without notifying your assigned Athletic

Academic Advisors for your sport as this can impact eligibility and graduation.

Act with integrity on all classwork. Plagiarism or cheating is a serious academic

offense that can compromise not only the integrity of the student-athletes, but the

athletic department and the university as well. A student-athlete who is found guilty of

plagiarism or cheating is subject to failing the class in addition to disciplinary action

from the athletic department (refer to the academic handbook for additional

information).

Adhere to the policies and procedures outlined. Failure to do so can result in the loss

of privileges and services provided by this department.

MISSION

Student-Athlete Support Services at Austin Peay State University strives to empower and

encourage student-athletes to meet their full potential academically, personally, and

professionally through building relationships and providing resources to prepare them for

graduation and beyond.

ACADEMIC EXPECTATIONS

Student-athletes are expected to be active learners and engage in the academic process.

It is important student-athletes not only attend class, but participate. Effective

communication with professors, Academic Advisors, and Athletic Academic Advisors is

imperative to their success. Student-Athlete Support Services expect our student-athletes

to:

STUDENT SUCCESS

No food or drink is allowed except for water bottles.

No animals are allowed unless they are a designated service animal.

Student-athletes are responsible for cleaning the area before leaving. Papers and

other items should not be left behind.

If a student-athlete is disrespectful in any way, they will be asked to leave and their

Head coach will be notified. This can include, not following directions or listening to

staff members, using foul language, and/or being destructive to the academic facility.

Student-athletes are responsible for checking in and out of study hall utilizing the

Retain QR code.

Student-athletes need to complete objectives each week and have their Athletic

Academic Advisor or assigned designee to sign off on each task to complete study

hall requirements.

Student-athletes need to come prepared with books and materials needed to study

and use their time wisely; excessive time on cell phones or social media sites will not

be allowed.

If you need a tutor, please notify your Athletic Academic Advisor immediately.

Please refer to athletic academic advisor and coach for additional study hall

expectations specific to each team.

DR. DAVID P. ROE ACADEMIC CENTER (THE ROE)

Student-Athlete Support Services is located in the Dr. David P. Roe Academic center (The

Roe). The facility serves as a student-athlete advising center and computer lab. In

collaboration with Head coaches, the Athletic Academic Advisors will let student-athletes

know if they are required to attend study hall each semester. Student-athletes may earn

their way out of study hall by maintaining a cumulative grade point average as

determined by the Associate Director of Athletics for Student-Athlete Success.

Additionally, Athletic Academic Advisors and Head coaches have the discretion to place

any student-athlete in study hall at any time.

Hours of Operation: (Summer and university break hours vary)

Monday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 pm.

Thursday: 8:00 a.m. – 8:00 pm

Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 pm

THE ROE RULES

STUDY HALL EXPECTATIONS

TUTORING

Student-Athlete Support Services will work to find all student-athletes requesting

assistance with a tutor free of charge. All requests must be made through their Athletic

Academic Advisor. Athletics works with the Learning Resource Center on campus to

coordinate tutorial sessions. The Learning Resource Center, located in Marks 124, is open

weekly Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-6 p.m., and provides tutorial assistance on either a

walk-in or scheduled basis. In addition, all students at APSU have access to tutor.com,

which is available 24/7 at no cost and can be accessed through the student’s D2L.

STUDENT SUCCESS

Student-athletes cannot hire tutors.

Tutoring sessions do not replace meeting with course instructors or attending class.

Student-athletes must come to tutoring sessions prepared.

Do not request a tutor if you do not plan to attend.

Athletic Academic Advisors and Head coaches will be notified when a planned tutorial

is not attended.

Tutors cannot write or type papers and student-athletes will not ask them to do so.

Tutors cannot complete or take exams, and student-athletes will not ask them to do so.

Tutors are not allowed to lend money in any amount to student-athletes.

Student-athletes will not ask tutors for transportation.

Student-athletes and tutors will maintain a professional relationship.

Tutors may not buy a gift, food or beverage for a student-athlete.

Tutors may not co-sign a loan for a student-athlete.

Tutors may not provide housing arrangements for a student-athlete.

Tutors may not permit a student-athlete to use institutional resources, such as a copier

or fax machine.

Tutors may not make credit cards available for student-athletes to use.

TUTORING REMINDERS:

NCAA RULES RELATED TO TUTORING

Any inadvertent or intentional violation of the following rules may result in you

jeopardizing your athletic eligibility:

Please Note: This is not an all-inclusive list; if you have questions, consult the Student-

Athlete Support Services staff or the Compliance Office.

PRIORITY REGISTRATION

Student-athletes have the privilege of enrolling for semester classes during “priority

registration.” This allows student-athletes to select classes needed for their degree

program, while working around their athletic schedule. It is essential that student-athletes

meet with their major advisor prior to the priority registration date in order to get cleared

for registration. After meeting with their major advisor, they need to meet with their

Athletic Academic Advisor to finalize a schedule.

ADVISING SERVICES

Each team is assigned an Athletic Academic Advisor who assists them in planning their

academic program while monitoring eligibility. Student-athletes who have declared a

major will be assigned a departmental advisor. Those who are undeclared will be advised

by a Student Success advisor. All student-athletes are encouraged to meet with their

advisor on a regular basis to discuss any academic concerns. Those seeking changes in

their schedule must discuss the change with their Athletic Academic Advisor. An “Athlete

Hold” is placed on all student-athletes so they may not drop below the required 12 hours.

Coaches are responsible for notifying Compliance when a student-athlete leaves a team so

registration holds can be removed.

ACADEMIC MONITORING

Academic performance is monitored both formally and informally by the Student-Athlete

Support Services staff. Instructors submit early alerts to notify student-athletes and

athletics of potential concerns. In addition, progress reports are sent out twice a semester

to receive feedback from professors regarding a student’s progress in the course. This

information will be provided to their coaches.

STUDENT SUCCESS

COMPUTER RESOURCES

Desktop computers are available for student-athletes to use in The Roe during operating

hours. Laptops are available for temporary checkout while traveling or as needed, upon

approval from their athletic academic advisor. For full semester use, laptops can be

checked out from the library.

NCAA SPONSORED SPORT TEXTBOOK LOAN PROGRAM

Scholarship aid for textbooks is limited to books needed for the student’s course of study.

All collections and/or distributions of textbooks will be made from the Student-Athlete

Support Services Office. Scholarship athletes are required to check with the assigned

designee for books. Digital books are available through either D2L or an email from digital

learning. It is the responsibility of all textbook scholarship students to return all books at

the end of each semester. Failure to do so will result in a hold being placed on your

record and charges accrued for lost/non-returned items.

ACADEMIC POLICIES

The following academic policies are established by the university.

REPEAT COURSES

Students who have received a grade below an ‘B’ in a course may repeat the course,

provided they have not completed a course for which the repeated course is a

prerequisite. When a course is repeated, the first grade remains on the permanent record,

but only the last grade is used in computing the grade point average. Repeated courses

will not be covered by athletics aid.

NOTE: Student-athletes may repeat a course at their own cost only. The athletics

department (scholarship) will not pay for a repeat course.

‘FA’ AND ‘FN’ GRADE POLICY

A student, who stops attending a class without officially dropping, will be subject to being

awarded an FA/FN grade for the class. A student-athlete who receives an FA/FN grade

and as a result does not meet the 12-hour requirement at the end of the semester, may be

eligible to participate between terms only if they have passed at least 6 hours and are

registered full-time for the next regular semester (Fall or Spring), provided applicable

NCAA progress toward degree and grade point average requirements are met. Courses

that are re-taken due to FA, FN will not be covered by athletics aid.

ACADEMIC PROBATION

A student will be placed on academic probation at the completion of any semester/term

or summer session when the student’s cumulative GPA falls below the chart below.

Quality hours attempted includes all courses and hours except for grades of “AU,” “I,” “IP,”

and “W.” Students on academic probation are limited to a credit load of 14 hours during

the Fall and Spring semesters, or six hours at Fort Campbell or all Summer sessions.

Freshmen placed on academic probation during their first year will be required to

participate in the academic strengthening program, Promoting Academic Student

Success (PASS). Other students on probation or students returning from academic

suspension are also encouraged to participate in the program. Conditionally admitted

students enter on probation and will be suspended after the first semester if the GPA is

less than 1.50.

ABSENCE FROM CLASS (UNIVERSITY POLICY)

Students are expected to attend class regularly, participate, and be prepared for

assignments. The University requires faculty to report students who have never attended

or stopped attending class. The impact of class attendance on the final grade is within the

purview of the teaching faculty, and faculty will inform class members of their attendance

policies through a course syllabus distributed at the beginning of the semester or term.

Irregular attendance may result in referral to the Academic Support Office (Academic

Alert). Students who miss an examination because of extenuating circumstances must

request approval from the instructor. Unless the student is officially representing the

University off campus, the discretion of the instructor determines the action regarding

missed exams or work. Class absenteeism that results in the grade of “FA” (failure,

stopped attending and reported within 14 days of the last date of attendance) or “FN”

(failure, never attended and reported within the first 14 days of class) may adversely

affect the student’s time status, financial aid repayment of lottery scholarship, and/or

veteran’s benefits. Grades of “FA” are awarded for courses when a student stops

attending class, and a grade of “FN” is awarded for courses when a student never attends

class.

Quality Hours Attempted

Minimum Grade Point

Average

11 or less

No minimum

12 – 29

1.50

30 – 45

1.80

46 – 59

1.90

60 and above

2.00

ACADEMIC POLICIES

You are NOT automatically excused from class.

At the beginning of each term, during the first week of classes, contact each of the

faculty members on your class schedule to discuss possible absences due to team

travel.

Find the office hours of each faculty member and set up an appointment; do not

discuss class absences during class time.

You should come up with a mutual agreement on how and when to make up missed

class work, which can include prior to the scheduled absence.

Thank the faculty member for his/her support.

One week prior to each class absence, remind the faculty member you will be missing

class. Reconfirm the rescheduling of assignments, quizzes, exams, etc.

Always turn your assignments in when they are due.

The fact that you will be absent from class does not mean you will have an extra day

to complete an assignment.

Be sure and communicate with the faculty member.

Do not tell a faculty member you will miss class when you are not competing.

Students who miss class unrelated to athletic competition are accountable for such

absences.

Student-athletes are not allowed to miss class due to practice.

ABSENCE FROM CLASS DUE TO TRAVEL FOR COMPETITION

When student-athletes are scheduled to participate in an institutionally scheduled activity

(for instance, athletic activity, band, or military event), class absences that fall during the

sanctioned time (this time may include travel) shall be considered as excused absences.

Although the student-athletes are excused from attending class, the student-athlete have

the responsibility to check with the instructor to find out what work was missed. Staff

members shall make reasonable arrangements for student-athletes to make up

assignments, quizzes and tests missed during the excused absence. These make-up

activities shall be comparable to the missed assignment, quiz or test and shall not be

graded for reduced credit or treated as a dropped grade.

The athletic director shall determine whether a particular athletic-related activity qualifies

as a university-excused absence. The Dean of Students shall determine whether a

particular student affairs-related activity qualifies as a university-excused absence. If a

faculty member desires to have a class-related activity designated as a university-excused

absence, s/he must request prior approval from his/her department head. Additionally,

department heads must request prior approval from the appropriate Dean. Once an

activity has been granted excused status by an academic dean, the athletic director or the

Dean of Students (as may be appropriate), the excused absence policy will take effect.

INSTRUCTIONS FOR APPROACHING FACULTY MEMBERS REGARDING CLASS

ABSENCES DUE TO COMPETITION:

REMINDERS

STUDENT-ATHLETE GRADUATION SASHES

Student-athletes will be eligible to receive a graduation sash if they are a current member

of the team and complete all graduation requirements. The only exception is made to

those athletes who have exhausted their eligibility prior to completing their degrees.

Exhausted eligibility for Spirit team members means they must have participated for four

years.

Career Readiness

Personal Development

Community Outreach

Community service opportunities (voluntary unless scheduled by team)

A semester calendar of events distributed to coaches

ELECT (Elevating Leaders and Enhancing the Collegiate Transition); a

mentorship program required for freshmen

Resume workshop; required for sophomores

Junior Jamboree; career readiness event required for junior

Fortera Credit Union Financial Workshop; required for seniors

Night of Networking; required for all student-athletes

One additional student-athlete development event per team, organized by the

coach and director

Govs Cup (see below)

Academics

Community outreach

Supporting other APSU athletic teams

Participation in Govs 360 programming

Govs 360 aspires to empower Austin Peay student-athletes to achieve their

potential in all areas of their lives. We strive to achieve this vision by providing

resources, experiences, and opportunities for Governor student-athletes to

succeed personally, mentally, and professionally.

AREAS OF FOCUS ARE:

We seek to fulfill our vision by providing resources, experiences, and opportunities

in the above focus areas through:

Govs Cup

Govs Cup is a comprehensive student-athlete competition that is designed to

create a culture of excellence through rewarding excellence. Each APSU Athletics

team will compete against each other in four categories:

The team that accumulates the most points at the end of each academic year will

receive the coveted Govs Cup trophy at the ESPEAYS. Standings are updated

periodically and can be found through Govs360 social media channels.

STUDENT-ATHLETE

ADVISORY COMMITTEE

to encourage sound academic practices for student-athletes,

to serve as the liaison between the campus SAAC, ASUN SAAC, and national SAAC,

to stimulate good sportsmanship,

to provide leadership and a voice in the development of public attitudes toward

intercollegiate athletics generally,

to address the future needs of conference athletics in a spirit of cooperation and

mutual benefit of the member institutions,

to encourage cooperation amongst student-athletes toward the support of gender

equity,

to provide health, safety and wellness information to student-athletes,

to provide personal and professional development opportunities, and

to provide community service at the institutional and conference level.

Community outreach

Campus engagement

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion

Faculty Relations

Mental Health & Wellness

Philanthropy

The mission of the Austin Peay State University Student-Athlete Advisory Committee

(SAAC) is to promote opportunities for student-athletes to effectively communicate and

improve relationships with the administration by familiarizing them with the operating

principles of the NCAA and providing them with information regarding the Austin Peay

Athletics program. In support of this purpose, the Committee should promote positive

images in academics, athletics, sportsmanship, personal and social development,

community outreach, and career exploration for student-athletes.

SAAC meets monthly and includes two representatives from each team. All student-

athletes are welcome to attend a SAAC meeting. Please contact Matthew Kilpatrick if you

are interested in representing your team or have an issue for the committee to discuss.

PURPOSE

The purpose of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee is to enhance the total student-

athlete experience by promoting opportunity, protecting student-athlete welfare, and

fostering a positive student-athlete image. To this end, through the orderly establishment

and enforcement of legislation, the committee aims:

SERVICES

Services such as University projects and community service will be organized and/or

provided by SAAC members at least once every semester. These services will include

anything involving student-athletes, the University student body, or the people in the

community. SAAC will not participate in any acts subversive to the welfare of the nation.

SUB-COMMITTEES

Each student-athlete representative shall serve on at least one sub-committee. All

student-athletes are encouraged to join a sub-committee, but membership is only

required of those serving as representatives for their team. Sub-committees include:

DUTIES OF MEMBERS

Members must show active participation in the council. Each active member must serve

on a SAAC Sub-Committee and miss no more than 2 meetings a year, excluding the dates

missed for athletic reasons.

NCAA

COMPLIANCE

Austin Peay is committed to an athletic program that complies with all NCAA legislation.

As a Division I student-athlete there are numerous NCAA rules and regulations that may

affect you, particularly in the areas of amateurism, recruitment, eligibility, financial aid,

awards and benefits, ethical conduct and playing and practice seasons. This is not an all-

inclusive list. If you are uncertain about a situation, ASK your coach or the Compliance

Office first! There will be no tolerance for intentional violations of NCAA and/or ASUN

rules. NCAA rules are very detailed and cannot be included in this handbook in total. If

you have any questions about NCAA Rules, please contact the Compliance Office at (931)

221-6119.

ELIGIBILITY

The main purpose of eligibility rules is to ensure that your best interests as a student are

being met while you compete in athletics. Eligibility rules set minimum standards which

show that, as a student, you are progressing in a reasonable and timely fashion toward

receiving your degree at Austin Peay. A student-athlete must compete with honesty and

integrity at all times and represent the honor and dignity of fair play. A student-athlete is

not eligible if he/she has shown dishonesty in evading or violating NCAA regulations.

Eligibility is a complicated matter. If you have any questions or concerns, please see the

Athletics Academic Coordinator or the Compliance Office. Ultimately, the student athlete

is responsible for their own eligibility.

In order to be eligible for competition and practice, a student-athlete must maintain

certain academic requirements established by the NCAA. The following sections describe

those requirements.

ENROLLMENT IN 12 CREDIT HOURS

You must be registered for at least 12 hours at all times on main campus during the Fall

and Spring semesters. During your final semester, you can be below 12 hours so long as

you are enrolled in all courses necessary to complete your degree. If you drop below 12

hours, you immediately become ineligible for practice and competition and will be held

financially responsible for any course(s) dropped without prior approval from the

Athletics Department. Should a student-athlete drop below full time while receiving

athletics aid, they will be required to pay back the pro-rated value of their scholarship.

Before making a program change (adding or dropping a course, or change of major),

each student-athlete is required to meet with a staff member of Athletics Academic

Services to gain approval.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

All student-athletes must pass 6 degree applicable credit hours each semester in order

to be eligible to compete the next semester (i.e. you must pass 6 hours in spring to be

eligible to play in fall, etc.). Eighteen (18) degree applicable semester hours must be

passed in the previous 2 semesters (fall and spring semesters) to be eligible to

compete the following semester. This is in addition to meeting minimum GPA and

satisfactory progress requirements.

Football student-athletes who fail to pass 9 degree applicable hours during the fall

semester will be ineligible to compete in the first 4 games of the following season.

Baseball student athletes who fail to pass 6 hours in the spring shall be ineligible for

competition during the next academic year.

A student athlete who is entering his/her second year (3rd semester) of collegiate

enrollment must successfully complete at least 24 hours.

A student-athlete who is entering his/her third year (5th semester) of collegiate

enrollment must successfully complete at least 40% of the course requirements in

their specific degree program.

A student-athlete who is entering his/her fourth year (7th semester) of collegiate

enrollment must successfully complete at least 60% of the course requirements in

their specific degree program.

A student-athlete who is entering his/her fifth year (9th semester) of collegiate

enrollment must successfully complete at least 80% of the course requirements in

their specific degree program.

You must have a cumulative GPA of 1.80 or higher after your 1st two semesters of

enrollment.

You must have a cumulative GPA of 1.90 or higher after four semesters of enrollment.

You must have a cumulative GPA of 2.00 or higher after six semesters and beyond.

DECLARING A MAJOR

By the beginning of your third year (5th semester) in school, you must declare a major

leading toward a bachelor’s degree. If you fail to declare a major leading toward a

bachelor’s degree by the first day of class in your 5th semester, you are ineligible for

practice and competition. Before declaring a major, student-athletes are required to meet

with the Athletics Academic Services staff.

PROGRESS-TOWARD-DEGREE

To stay on track with progress towards degree requirements, student-athletes should

complete at least 24 credit hours that count toward their declared degree at Austin Peay

each academic year.

MINIMUM CREDIT HOURS EARNED

In order to practice, receive athletics aid, or compete in intercollegiate athletics, you must,

in addition to being enrolled in full time hours:

PERCENTAGE OF DEGREE COMPLETION

GPA REQUIREMENTS

Student-athletes who fail to meet the required Minimum Credit Hour, Percentage of

Degree and/or GPA requirements will not be eligible for competition during the

semester that follows.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Signs a contract or commitment of any kind to participate in professional athletics in

that sport, regardless of its legal enforceability or any consideration received;

Participates on a team and knows (or had reason to know) that the team is a

professional athletics team in that sport; or

Receives, directly or indirectly, a salary or reimbursement of expenses from a

professional organization in that sport based upon athletic skill or participation, except

as permitted by NCAA legislation

Accept payment or a promise of payment (in cash, prizes, gifts, or travel) for

participation in your sport

Enter into an agreement of any kind, verbal or written, to compete in professional

athletics

Request that your name be put on a draft list for professional sports, or try out with a

professional sports organization

Play on any professional athletics team

Have your athletically related financial aid determined by anyone other than the

University

Participate on teams other than those of Austin Peay during the season (this includes

exhibition or tournament contests)

Have your picture or name used to promote or endorse a commercial business or

product without first submitting the NIL Disclosure form in ARMS or INFLCR and

receiving approval.

Accept such things as gifts, meals, loans of cars or money from groups or individuals

with athletics interests or people within the APSU athletics program

Be represented by an agent, individual or organization to market your athletic skills or

reputation

Receive any benefit that is not available to other AP students

Participate in a summer league not approved by the NCAA – you must have written

permission from the Athletics Director.

Is no longer involved in professional athletics;

Is not receiving any remuneration from a professional sports organization; and

Has no active contractual relationship with any professional athletics team

However, an individual may remain bound by an option clause in a professional sports

contract that requires assignment to a particular team if the student-athlete’s

professional career is resumed.

AMATEURISM

An individual is not eligible for participation in an intercollegiate sport if that individual

ever has been a professional in that sport. An individual becomes a professional if he or

she:

To be eligible as a student-athlete, you must remain an amateur. The following is a list of

some of the NCAA guidelines for protecting your amateur status. In your sport, you

cannot:

In ANY sport, you cannot:

Amateur Status if Professional in Another Sport — A professional athlete in one sport may

represent a member institution in a different sport. However, the student-athlete cannot

receive institutional financial assistance in the second sport unless the student-athlete:

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Enter into an agreement, written or oral, with a person for the purpose of marketing

his or her athletic ability or reputation.

Enter into an agreement, written or oral, with an agent for representation in future

professional sports negotiations that are to take place after eligibility is exhausted.

Accept transportation or other benefits from any person representing any individual in

marketing of his/her athletic ability or an agent, even if the agent has expressed no

interest in representing the student-athlete.

Agree, either orally or in writing, to be represented by an agent or organization in the

marketing of your athletic ability or reputation until after completion of your last

intercollegiate contest, including post-season games.

Negotiate or sign a playing contract in any sport in which you intend to compete.

Ask to be placed on a professional league’s draft list.

Accept payment of expenses or gifts of any kind (including meals and transportation)

from an agent.

Receive preferential benefits or treatment (e.g. loans with deferred payback basis)

because of reputation, skill, or payback potential as a professional athlete.

Retain professional services for personal reasons at less than the normal charge from a

representative of APSU’s athletics interests.

Providing alcohol to a prospect

Providing or encouraging the use of drugs or sex

Engaging in any behavior that could be considered a violation of criminal law

Participating in any form of gambling activities

Providing exotic dancers, visiting gentlemen’s club, or any equivalent

AGENTS

Agents are becoming more and more prominent in intercollegiate athletics and it is

important that you know the NCAA rules related to professional sports and agents. Any

violation of these rules could have severe consequences on your eligibility, your team and

Austin Peay State University. These rules apply not only to the student-athlete, but also to

relatives and friends. This is only a small sample of the NCAA guidelines concerning

agents. The APSU Athletics website has an information section to better help you

understand rules concerning agents. When unsure about a situation, please ask your head

coach or the Compliance Office. A student-athlete and/or family member cannot:

PROMOTIONAL ACTIVITIES

Before participating in any institutional, charitable, educational or nonprofit promotion,

you must receive permission from the Athletics Director. You may not receive any

compensation for or permit the use of your name or picture to advertise, recommend or

promote the sale or use of a commercial product or service of any kind without

submitting the NIL Disclosure Form in ARMS first. This includes promoting yourself

(music, author, modeling, your own business, etc.). There are some situations where we

may be able to file a waiver with the NCAA—please see Compliance.

HOSTING PROSPECTIVE STUDENT-ATHLETES

Hosting a prospective student-athlete is a privilege, which carries certain responsibilities.

These responsibilities include being aware of the prospect’s itinerary and the required

campus meetings the prospect is obligated to attend. Additionally, a student host must

understand and abide by all applicable NCAA, Conference and University regulations.

These regulations prohibit the following activities:

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Only full-time students at Austin Peay who are eligible to practice may serve as hosts.

Partial qualifiers or non-qualifiers are not eligible to serve as a prospect’s host.

Only one student may serve as an official host; other students may assist the host but

must pay for their own entertainment and meals. Hosts should remain with the

prospective student-athlete at all times.

The official visit may last no more than two nights once the PSA arrives on campus,

and all entertainment must occur within a 30-mile radius of the Austin Peay campus.

Note: Traveling outside the state of Tennessee is also prohibited.

A maximum of up to $60.00 for each PSA and family member per visit may be

provided by Austin Peay State University to cover all actual costs of entertaining the

host, prospect and the prospect’s parents/legal guardian or spouse. These funds may

not be used to purchase souvenirs such as T-shirts or other institutional mementos.

If recreational equipment (e.g., Jet-ski, fishing poles, bowling shoes, ice skates) is used

to entertain a prospect or the prospect’s parents/legal guardians or spouse, the

normal retail cost of the use of such equipment must be assessed against the $60.00

allotted for entertainment. If the normal retail cost exceeds the $60.00 per day

allowance, such equipment may not be provided.

No cash, including any portion of the entertainment money provided to the host, may

be given to the prospect or anyone else.

Entertainment money may not be used for any person other than the host, the

assigned prospect, the prospect’s parents/legal guardians, siblings, and/or the

prospect’s spouse. Additional persons (e.g., the prospect’s friends, significant others)

may accompany the prospect at their own expense, and only if they are not prospects.

The cost of actual meals, not to exceed three (3) per day, on the official visit for the

host, prospect, prospect’s parents/legal guardians, and/or prospect’s spouse need not

be assessed against the $60.00 entertainment expense limit. A desert or after-dinner

snack at the coach’s residence may also be excluded.

The prospect may be provided lodging in an on-campus facility at the institution’s

expense. The host may not allow the prospect to stay in the host’s room overnight

without the permission of the recruiting coach.

If permission is granted, the host must be aware that room service meals, telephone

calls billed to the room, in-room pay-per-view movies, and similar expenses are the

responsibility of the host and the prospect.

The host may provide transportation during the official visit but may not use vehicles

provided or arranged for by a coach, institutional staff member, or booster. NEVER

allow a prospect or the prospect’s parents/legal guardians and/or spouse to use or

drive your car.

The host must not allow recruiting conversations to occur on- or off-campus between

the prospect and a booster, alumni of Austin Peay. Former athletes are permitted to

speak to PSA’s on Austin Peay’s campus only. If an incidental, unplanned meeting

occurs, an exchange of greetings is permissible; but, in a polite manner, do not allow

the contact to go beyond a greeting.

The prospect may engage in recreational or workout activities, including the sport for

which the prospect is being recruited. Hosts may engage in athletic activities with

prospects; however, coaches/ managers may not be present nor can they ask

questions regarding the PSA’s athletic performance during such activities.

The following rules and regulations apply to a student-athlete who serves as a host during

a prospects official visit:

• Student-athlete hosts must review and approve the Student Host Record in ARMS

thatdoutlines NCAA and institutional policies regarding official visits PRIOR to the

start of thedvisit.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

The host, the prospect, and the prospect’s parents/legal guardians, siblings, and/or

spouse may receive a complimentary “general admission” ticket to campus athletics

events during the official visit. No “hard tickets” may be provided during the official

visit.

Do not publicize the prospects visit on social media or through any other venue.

UNOFFICIAL VISITS

During an unofficial visit, a prospect cannot receive any type of expense. This includes

arranging for a prospect to stay with a current athlete overnight free of charge. During an

unofficial visit, the rules and regulations that govern an official visit still apply. Current

athletes can only have off campus contact with a prospect within a one-mile radius of

Austin Peay's campus.

PLAYING/PRACTICE SEASONS

The NCAA requires that each sport have a limit on a student-athlete’s participation in

activities required by a coach. The head coach is to keep log detailing how many hours

are spent each day on athletically related activities. Student athletes are to sign off on this

log each week through ARMS. Student-athletes must be provided a schedule each week

for all required activities, both countable and not countable. By noon each Monday, the

following week’s required athletically related activities schedule must be posted in ARMS.

Any change to the weekly schedule must have a 24-hour notice unless it's due to

inclement weather. Please be sure you understand and review what you are approving. If

you are being made to engage in more than the hours listed below, or changes to weekly

schedule are being made without 24 hours’ notice (with exception of inclement weather),

please see the Athletics Director or Compliance Office. These meetings will be

confidential.

DAILY AND WEEKLY HOUR LIMITATIONS – PLAYING SEASON

A student-athlete’s participation in countable athletically-related activities during his/her

declared playing season is limited to a maximum of four hours per day and 20 hours per

week. You must be given one day off per week (7 days). Note: a day of competition

counts as three hours, regardless of how long the competition lasts. For each sport an

athlete participates in, one week (7 days) must be given off from all athletically related

activities beginning the day after the last contest of the NCAA Championship season.

WEEKLY HOUR LIMITATION – OUTSIDE THE PLAYING SEASON

A student-athlete’s participation in the off-season will be limited to a maximum of eight

hours per week of countable athletically-related activities. Note: a maximum of only four

hours per week may be dedicated to individual skill instruction; for football, it’s 2 hours of

film review/walk throughs. You must be given two days off per week.

Outside the playing season, all athletically-related activities are prohibited 7 days prior to

the beginning of the final examination period through the conclusion of each student-

athlete’s final exam.

PRESEASON, VACATION PERIODS, AND BETWEEN TERMS

Daily limitations do not apply to countable athletically-related activities occurring during

an official vacation period (as listed in Austin Peay’s official calendar) and during the

academic year between terms when classes are not in session if you are in a declared

season. During these time periods, student-athletes must be provided with one day off

per week (7 calendar days) during a vacation period when classes are not in session and

during preseason practice.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Study Hall

Recruiting Activities

Fundraising Events

Educational Seminars

Team Social Functions

not be required to report back to coach/manager/strength staff/trainer any

information related to the activity. In addition, no staff member can report back to a

coach information about the activity

must be initiated and requested solely by the athlete. Activity cannot be required by

any staff member; however, information can be provided regarding open weight room

times.

attendance and participation in voluntary activity can't be recorded for purposes of

informing staff members (includes "checking in" or pictures taken during activity

being posted on social media, progress sheets being sent in, etc.).

athlete shall not be subjected to any type of penalty for not participating in voluntary

activity, nor can there be any type of incentives or recognition based on participation

or performance in voluntary activities.

For some sports (tennis and track), there are exceptions to coaches being present

during voluntary work - please check with Compliance Office.

NCAA rules allow Austin Peay to provide a maximum of four complimentary

admissions per home and away contest to a student-athlete in the sport in which the

individual participates.

Complimentary admissions shall be provided through a pass list for those individuals

designated by the student-athlete. The pass list must be submitted through ARMS the

day before competition. On game day, no additions or changes can be made.

Your guest must provide proper identification and a signature for the complimentary

tickets to be honored. You must include legal first and last names for each guest.

Please make your adult guests aware that they each will be asked to present an ID,

and no tickets will be issued without one.

Activities which may be required by your coaches or the athletics department, but do not

count toward the weekly or hourly limitations include attendance at the following:

These events can also take place on your required “day off.” A more detailed listing of

what is considered countable is available on the APSU Athletics website. If you have

questions as to what constitutes athletically-related activity, please contact the

Compliance Office at 931-221-6119.

VOLUNTARY WORKOUTS

For a workout to be considered voluntary and not count against the 8/20 hours rule, they

must:

OUTSIDE ATHLETICS PARTICIPATION

It is not permissible for a student-athlete to compete for an outside (non-university) team

during the academic year without approval from the Compliance Office. This includes

APSU’s recreation sports. During official vacation periods, always check with your head

coach and the Compliance Office before participating in any organized competition or

leagues. Written permission from the Athletics Director is necessary before engaging in

any summer competition or leagues. The Outside Competition form is located in ARMS.

COMPLIMENTARY TICKETS

Policies and Procedures

NCAA COMPLIANCE

At home games, players’ guests must come to the designated entrance to claim

complimentary tickets.

Once tickets are received, the guest must immediately enter the venue. They cannot

pick up the ticket, leave and come back.

Complimentary admissions may be provided to members of Austin Peay’s team for all

contests in a tournament in which the team is participating, provided that all contests

are held at the site at which the team is participating.

Complimentary admissions to away contest are subject to the number of admissions

provided to Austin Peay by the opposing institution. Ensure your guests will be in

attendance prior to requesting tickets for away contests. You may be charged for the

purchase of these tickets if your guests do not attend.

NCAA rules state that you may not receive payment for complimentary tickets from

any source or exchange them for any item of value. A student-athlete found to have

sold or exchanged complimentary tickets for cash or any item of value automatically

loses his/her eligibility.

Made any type of contribution to the athletics department or to a booster club

Joined the institution’s booster club or any sport specific support group

Assisted in any manner in the recruitment of prospective student-athletes

Promoted the institution’s athletics program in any manner

Purchased season tickets from the University

Ever participated in the University Intercollegiate Athletics program

Purchase or use of an automobile or transportation

Use of a telephone or credit card for personal use

Gifts or loans of money or co-signing a loan

Gifts of clothing or other personal items

Free or reduced cost services (i.e. laundry, attorney fees, physician fees, rent)

Free or reduced cost entertainment services (e.g., tickets to professional sports events

or movies, discounts for meals at restaurants)

Note: The individuals you list on pass lists are your guests—take responsibility for making

sure their names are correct and that they know what is needed in order to pick up their

ticket.

BOOSTERS, EXTRA BENEFITS AND OCCASIONAL MEALS

Boosters

As a student-athlete, you need to be aware that there are limitations on the interactions

which you may have with individuals the NCAA defines as a booster. A representative of

athletics interests, or “booster,” is anyone who has ever:

Once a person becomes a booster, they retain that status FOREVER!

EXTRA BENEFITS

Student-athletes or their friends/relatives who accept benefits or expenses not

authorized by NCAA rules from coaches, boosters or institutional staff members must be

declared ineligible immediately for competition. The general rule is that a benefit that is

not available to the general student body is not permissible for student-athletes.

Examples of non-permissible extra benefits include, but are not limited to the following:

Members of the athletic department staff (including tutors) may not type reports, papers,

letters, make photo copies, fax documents, etc.

If you are unsure if something is considered an extra benefit, check with the Compliance

Office first!

NCAA COMPLIANCE

The meal can be provided in an individual’s home or a restaurant and

A representative of the institution’s athletics interest may provide reasonable local

transportation to student-athletes to attend the meal function only if the meal function

is at the home of that representative.

The student-athlete cannot be hired based on his/her athletic ability or the value that

the student-athlete may have for the employer because of the athletics reputation or

fame the student-athlete has achieved.

The student-athlete is to be compensated only for work actually performed.

The student-athlete cannot be paid more than the going rate in the locality for similar

services.

OCCASIONAL MEALS

A student-athlete or an entire sports team may receive an occasional meal in the locale of

the institution on infrequent and special occasions from an institutional staff member. An

institutional staff member may provide reasonable local transportation to student-

athletes to attend such meals.

A student-athlete may also receive an occasional meal from a representative of athletics

interest (booster) on infrequent and special occasions under the following conditions:

Please note: Approval must be obtained through the Compliance Office PRIOR to

receiving an occasional meal.

STUDENT-ATHLETE EMPLOYMENT

If a student-athlete wishes to work off campus, he or she must submit Student Athlete

Employment Approval form, which can be found on the APSU Athletics website or in

ARMS. Please note that certain NCAA rules apply to student-athlete employment:

TRANSFER RELEASE

A student-athlete who is interested in transferring from Austin Peay should discuss

her/his options with both the coaching staff as well as the Director of Compliance. Some

transfer rules are very complex, and different rules apply to different sports. Please speak

with the Compliance Office as well as your head prior to initiating transfer so that you are

making an informed decision.

Intent to Transfer

In order to speak to another institution regarding the possibility of transferring, you must

be in the NCAA Transfer Portal. Speaking with another institution/coach prior to this is

considered tampering and can result in a loss of eligibility for you and sanctions for the

coach/institution you are speaking to. To be put in the transfer portal, you must complete

the "Intent to Transfer" workflow in ARMS. Compliance is unable to enter a student

athlete into the NCAA Transfer Portal outside their sport’s transfer window dates unless

the student athlete meets another transfer exception. The Compliance Office has two

business days to enter you into the Transfer Portal. You will receive a notification once

that is completed and that is when you are able to start talking to other institutions. Sport

Transfer Window dates can be found on the APSU Compliance website. Please note that

completing the Intent to Transfer workflow allows the coach to cancel your athletics aid

for the next academic term.

If transfer exceptions are met, to be immediately eligible to compete at another NCAA

institution, you must leave APSU in good academic standing and be eligible to compete

had you stayed.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Signs a professional sports contract

Receives other aid that causes the recipient to exceed their individual limit

Accepts money for playing in an athletics contest that causes them to exceed the

value of a full grant-in-aid

Agrees to be represented by an agent and accepts money causing them to exceed the

cost of full grant-in-aid

Submits an intent to transfer request (aid will be cancelled the next semester)

FINANCIAL AID

Scholarships

Athletic scholarships, the values of which are varying combinations of tuition, fees, books,

room and board, are available to student-athletes who demonstrate outstanding athletic

ability. To qualify for this scholarship, you must fulfill the admissions requirement for

Austin Peay State University and meet and maintain the eligibility requirements for

athletics participation and financial aid established by the NCAA, Conference and the

University. These scholarships are generally granted for a period of one academic year

(fall and spring semesters) and may be increased, decreased, renewed, or not renewed in

accordance with NCAA regulations after each academic year of participation.

Students who receive athletics aid will be informed in writing or via ARMS from the

Director of Student Financial Aid no later than July 1 of each year of the exact amount of

aid they will be offered for the following year. If your athletics aid is decreased or not

renewed for the following year, you have a right to a hearing to appeal the decision. If you

receive a letter of scholarship nonrenewal or reduction and you feel it is unwarranted, you

need to follow the instructions in the letter and request a hearing with the APSU

Scholarship Committee to begin the appeal process.

Student-athletes are also eligible for aid from other sources outside the athletics

department (grants, scholarships, student work and loans) as long as the total value of

their financial aid package does not exceed the maximum limits established by the NCAA.

Student-athletes should complete a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)

form each year in order to check eligibility for grants, loans, TN Lottery and other forms

of aid. All student-athletes should complete their FAFSA form no later than May 1 of each

year. By doing so the student-athlete can maximize their individual aid package and

determine whether they qualify for aid for which they were unaware (e.g., Pell grants). All

academic cash awards received by a student-athlete are subject to NCAA regulations and

must be approved by the athletics department before the student-athlete can receive the

cash award. As a result, your athletics scholarship award may be reduced by scholarships

you receive from other sources.

Reduction or Cancellation of Athletic Aid During Period of Award

A student-athlete’s scholarship will not be increased, reduced or cancelled during the

period of its award on the basis of athletics ability, performance or contribution to the

team’s success because of injury or illness that prevents participation in athletics or for

any other athletics reason. However, should a student-athlete knowingly violate NCAA or

Conference regulations, they will be declared ineligible and their scholarship will be

cancelled. Scholarships will not pay for you to repeat a course if your athletics scholarship

has previously paid for you to take the course.

Pursuant to NCAA regulations, the amount of a student-athlete’s scholarship must be

immediately reduced or cancelled during the term of the award if the student-athlete:

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Becoming ineligible for intercollegiate competition. (e.g., by carrying less than 12

credit hours, not maintaining needed GPA, etc.)

Giving false information on your application, National Letter of Intent, or Athletics

Financial Aid Agreement

Engaging in serious misconduct that brings disciplinary action from Austin Peay State

University

Voluntarily withdraws from a sport at any time for personal reasons

Failure to adhere to departmental and/or team rules and responsibilities

Student-athletes who receive athletics financial aid may receive no more than 12 hours

of summer school tuition during their period of undergraduate eligibility.

Student-athletes will receive an amount of summer aid towards tuition and fees only

that is equal to their NCAA equivalency for their previous academic year (1.e., students

who receive a 50% scholarship will receive 50% of their summer tuition).

Student must return to APSU in the fall (extenuating circumstances will be reviewed)

Summer School aid may not be used to repeat courses (courses repeated due to pre-

requisite requirements may be appealed on a case by case scenario).

Student-athletes will be held financially responsible for any class that is dropped

without prior approval from the Athletics Department or failed class(es).

To be considered for athletic financial aid for the summer semester, student-athletes

must complete an application. Applications must be received by the published

deadline in order to receive consideration. Applications received after that date may

not be reviewed.

In addition, a scholarship may be immediately reduced or cancelled for failure to follow

university and athletics department policies, and if a student-athlete does not fulfill their

academic responsibilities. Examples include:

MEDICAL NON-COUNTER

A student-athlete receiving athletics aid who becomes injured or ill to the point he/she

will apparently never again be able to participate in intercollegiate athletics may be

awarded an amount equal to the initial amount awarded for a maximum of four semesters

from the date of disqualification. Note: A student-athlete receiving athletics aid under this

provision will be asked to volunteer within the Department of Athletics in lieu of

practice/competition.

SUMMER ATHLETICS AID

Athletic financial aid for the summer semester is not a part of the scholarship agreement,

it is a separate award from athletic financial aid award for the academic year. It is

awarded at the discretion of the athletics department. Factors that are considered in

determining approval of a student-athlete’s request for summer athletic financial aid

include: availability of funds, applicability of the courses to the applicant’s designated

degree, the applicant’s fulfillment of academic requirements, as well as his/her adherence

to team responsibilities. Athletics summer aid covers tuition and fees only; living expenses

are not provided. The following guidelines govern the Summer School Scholarship

Program:

NCAA COMPLIANCE

POST-ELIGIBILITY SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM

The Post-Eligibility Scholarship Program is designed to provide financial assistance to

those student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility but have not satisfied

their degree requirements for graduation. The Program is not designed to allow a

student-athlete to pursue an additional minor, second degree, or to attend graduate

school. Post eligibility aid covers tuition and fees only; living expenses are not provided.

Post-eligibility athletic aid is not an entitlement and is awarded at the discretion of the

athletic department. All post-eligibility athletic aid will be awarded on a semester-by-

semester basis. Student-athletes receiving post-eligibility athletic aid must pass 12 hours

and maintain a minimum 2.00 GPA in order for aid to be renewed the following semester.

Factors that are considered in determining whether to approve a student's request for

post-eligibility athletic aid include: availability of funds, satisfactory completion of degree

completion requirements, and recommendations received from Athletic Academic

Services and your Head Coach.

In order to be eligible for post-eligibility athletic aid, student-athletes must be within

thirty (30) semester hours of satisfying degree completion requirements. Therefore, post-

eligibility athletic aid is limited to a maximum of thirty (30) semester hours of tuition and

fees only.

Student-athletes will be held financially responsible for any course(s) dropped without

prior approval from the Athletics Department and failed course(s). A student-athlete that

drops below 12 hours while receiving post-eligibility aid will be required to pay back the

pro-rated value of his/her scholarship.

Student-athletes receiving post-eligibility athletic aid will be required to volunteer in areas

which will be assigned (tutoring, running errands, working with specific programs, etc.).

Failure to do so may result in the loss of post-eligibility athletic aid. Those student-

athletes who must complete their degree requirements at an off-campus location

(student teaching, internship, etc.) may be granted an exception to the volunteer

requirement.

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

Additional financial assistance is available through the following loans: Federal Pell Grant,

Supplemental Educational Opportunity Fund, Stafford Loans, Federal Work Study (FWS),

Parent Loans for Undergraduate Students (PLUS), and Perkins Loan. Please see the APSU

Financial Aid Office for more information.

IN-STATE RESIDENCY

Out-of-state student-athletes receiving athletics aid are encouraged to become

Tennessee residents if they meet the criteria which includes: 1 year of residency, be at

least 21 years of age, obtain a voter registration card, Tennessee driver license, and have

proof of employment. Tennessee Residency forms may be obtained on the APSU

Registrar’s Office website. If your residency status changes to in-state, you must notify

the Compliance Office immediately.

NCAA STUDENT ASSISTANCE FUND

The NCAA has established a Special Assistance Fund to assist Division I student-athletes

who demonstrate financial need.

NCAA COMPLIANCE

Educational expenses not permitted by the governing legislation of this Association

(see Bylaw 15 for permissible financial aid)

Any direct or indirect salary, gratuity or comparable compensation

Any division or split of surplus (bonuses, game receipts, etc.)

Excessive or improper expenses, awards or benefits (see Bylaw 16)

Expenses received from an outside amateur sports team or organization in excess of

actual and necessary travel, room and board expenses, and apparel and equipment for

competition and practice held in preparation for such competition

Actual and necessary expenses or any other form of compensation to participate in

athletics competition (while not representing an educational institution) from a

sponsor other than an individual upon whom the athlete is naturally or legally

dependent of the nonprofessional organization that is sponsoring the competition

Expenses received by the parents or legal guardians of a participant in athletics

competition from a non-professional organization sponsoring the competition in

excess of actual and necessary travel, room and board or expenses not made available

to the parents/legal guardians of all the participants in the competition

Payment to individual team members of individual competitors for unspecified or un-

itemized expenses beyond actual or necessary travel, room and board expenses for

practice and competition

Expenses incurred or awards received by an individual that are prohibited by the rules

governing an amateur, non-collegiate event in which the individual participates

Any payment, including actual and necessary expense, conditioned on the individual’s

or team’s place finish or performance or given on an incentive basis, or receipt of

expenses in excess of the same reasonable amount for permissible expenses given to

all individuals or team members involved in competition

Educational expenses provided to an individual by an outside sports team or

organization that are based in any degree upon the recipient’s athletic ability (except

as specified by NCAA), even if the funds are given to the institution to administer to

the recipient

Cash, or the equivalent thereof (e.g. trust fund) as an award for participation in

competition at any time, even if such award is permitted under the rules governing an

amateur, non-collegiate event in which the individual is participating. An award or

cash prize that an individual could not receive under NCAA legislation may not be

forwarded in the individual’s name to a different individual or agency

Preferential treatment, benefits, or services (e.g. loans with deferred payback)

because of an individual’s athletics reputation or skill or payback potential as a

professional athlete, unless such treatment, benefits or services are specifically

permitted under NCAA legislation

Receipt of a prize for participation (involving the utilization of athletic ability) in a

member institution’s promotional activity that is inconsistent with the provisions of

NCAA Bylaw 12.5 or official interpretations approved by the NCAA Council

Non-qualifiers in their initial year of residence are not eligible to receive assistance from

this fund. All student-athletes must qualify for the fund on an annual basis. Uses of this

fund can include family emergency expenses and certain medical, dental or vision

expenses; all subject to approval by the Athletics Director.

PAY FOR PARTICIPATION

Allowable financial aid is strictly limited by NCAA regulations. An individual loses amateur

status through receipt of “pay” which includes, but is not limited to, the following

practices:

WELLNESS

Monday – Friday: 8:00 am – 5:00 pm

Saturdays, Sundays, & holidays are based on team practice schedules.

Summer hours are based on sports’ needs.

Hours will be adjusted based on team practice and weight room schedules if needed.

No treatments will be given after 5:00 pm unless prior arrangements are made with an

athletic trainer.

ROLE OF THE ATHLETIC TRAINER

A certified athletic trainer is a professionally trained individual whose role in association

with an athletic team includes the prevention, treatment, evaluation, and rehabilitation of

athletic injuries under the supervision of the team physician.

Skills include evaluating and caring for athletic injuries, taping, wrapping, applying

treatments, making special pads, rehabilitating injuries, planning and supervising diets and

menus, assisting in the conditioning of student-athletes, and seeing that all playing fields

are free from hazards.

The athletic trainer also serves as the liaison between the team physician, other

specialists, the coaching staff, administration, student-athletes, and parents. The athletic

training sports medicine staff has the best interests of the student-athlete in mind when it

comes to their health and welfare. On occasion, the athletic trainer must make unpopular

decisions – but these decisions are based on the physical and mental ability of a student-

athlete to practice or compete.

AUSTIN PEAY SPORTS MEDICINE STAFF

Austin Peay State University has seven full-time certified athletic trainers.

TRAINING ROOM FACILITIES

AFTER NORMAL OFFICE HOURS

Remember, there are very few emergencies, but if you believe one exists, always refer to

the ER and use an ambulance when you think it is appropriate. In all cases, contact the

team’s Athletic Trainer and/or Head Coach. In all cases, the Assistant AD—Health and

Human Performance must be notified immediately, after the student-athlete is receiving

appropriate care and has arrived at the medical facility.

STUDENT-ATHLETE

ATHLETIC TRAINING

All student-athletes must be respectful of athletic trainers and other medical

personnel.

All injuries should be reported to the Sports Medicine staff in a prompt manner.

All illnesses should be reported to the Sports Medicine staff in the morning.

Student-athletes are expected to be on time for all appointments.

No horseplay or profanity.

Pants/shorts must be worn at the waist at all times.

Unless receiving treatment on the upper body, shirts must be worn at all times (no

sports bras only).

Never take supplies without permission from one of the Sports Medicine staff.

Return equipment and supplies as soon as they are no longer needed.

No one is allowed to operate the equipment without proper supervision by one of the

Sports Medicine staff. No self-treatment.

No over the counter medications will be given out without consent from an athletic

trainer.

No video recording with cell phones or other electric devices by student-athletes in

the athletic training room.

Full showers must be taken following practice prior to receiving treatment or entering

the hot tub and cold tub.

All treatment will be under the direction of a physician and supervised by the Sports

Medicine staff.

Treatment is scheduled around class time and study hall. No student-athlete should

miss class or study hall for treatment or an appointment unless previously approved of

by the academic department.

The use of tobacco products is strictly prohibited in the athletic training room.

ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

DOCTOR’S CARE

A doctor is at Boyd Health Services (BHS) every Monday, Wednesday and Friday on a

yearly basis from 7:00 to 9:00 AM (excluding University holidays). It is preferred that the

initial referral for all illnesses / injuries take place during the time that the doctor is at

BHS. Non-emergent illness or injury referrals may not be made to BHS until the start of

the next business day.

REMEMBER—office hours at BHS are not the same as the office hours of the Athletic

Training Room. Therefore, it is advised that student athletes report to their athletic trainer

for referral to BHS at 7:00 AM Monday through Friday. This will avoid any delay in care

due to closure of BHS.

All student-athletes must obtain a referral slip prior to going to BHS every time.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Any student-athlete who has an injury or illness should make it known to the sports

medicine staff as soon as possible.

The athletic trainer will provide care and make a proper referral to the team physician

if necessary. If the team physician believes the injury requires additional consultation,

a referral will be made as soon as possible to a medical specialist.

Student-athletes who are injured may be required to receive specific treatment in the

athletic training room. All treatment and rehabilitation will be directed by an athletic

trainer.

If a student-athlete is injured during practice, workout or game the sports medicine

staff will assist him/her as quickly as possible, evaluate and proceed with the

appropriate, immediate care. The coach will be updated as quickly as possible

regarding the student-athlete’s injury status.

If a student-athlete is restricted from athletic activity because of an injury or illness

s/he must be cleared by the sports medicine staff to resume activity.

Coaches are not permitted to refer student-athletes to any medical facility or

physician except in the case of extreme illness or injury when a member of the sports

medicine staff is unavailable.

All athletic injuries will be handled by the sports medicine staff without interference

from the coaching staff.

In the case of an emergency, the sports medicine staff will administer the necessary

emergency care until EMS or a team physician arrives.

Coaches should NOT under any circumstances request the removal of a student-

athlete or attempt to move him/her if an injury has occurred to the student-athlete’s

head, neck or back.

Coaches are not to interfere with the sports medicine staff and their management of

emergency situations.

3 attempts will be made by the Sports Medicine staff to contact the student-athlete.

If the student-athlete does not complete his/her exit physical s/he will forfeit medical

coverage of any existing athletic-related injuries.

If the student-athlete has any current issues, s/he must see the team physician before

leaving.

The student-athlete or athletic trainer can request a physician exam to determine the

status of a previous or current injury. At that time a plan for continuation of care will

be developed.

Exit physicals should be scanned into the student-athlete’s ATS account and the

student-athlete will be archived.

If a student-athlete has any current issues a plan should be made with the student-

athlete and athletic trainer as to what needs to happen to resolve the current issue.

If the student-athlete did not have any injuries during the year s/he should sign

indicating, they have no injuries.

Procedures for Athletic Related Injuries/Illnesses

EXIT PHYSICALS

Non-Returners

All student-athletes who will not be returning the following year must complete an exit

physical at the end of their final season. They have 14 days from the time they finish their

season or enter the transfer portal to complete their exit physical.

Returner Exit Physicals

All returning student-athletes should complete an end-of-season exit physical.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

These exit physicals ensure that no injuries are missed, and a student-athlete does not

come back from break stating that a new injury actually occurred during the season.

Exit physicals should be scanned into the student-athlete’s ATS account.

If a student-athlete believes she may be pregnant she should contact her athletic

trainer as soon as possible.

The student-athlete will be required to have a pregnancy test at Boyd Health Services

or their personal physician’s office.

If the pregnancy is confirmed the student-athlete will be encouraged to inform her

coach of the situation. If she declines to allow information to be released to her coach,

any withholding from practice will be explained as an “undisclosed illness.”

The Asst. Athletic Director-Health and Human Performance and team physician will be

given information regarding the pregnancy and future course of action.

The team physician in consultation with the student-athlete’s obstetrician will make a

decision regarding the student-athlete’s ability to continue play, weighing the risks for

both the student-athlete’s health and ability to maintain the pregnancy.

If the student-athlete is permitted to participate in her designated athletics program, a

waiver will be drafted and approved by the APSU General Counsel.

The team physician will make any decisions regarding activity status throughout the

pregnancy and return to activity following pregnancy outcomes on an individual basis.

Student-athletes shall not be forced to terminate a pregnancy for any reason, and no

one shall use financial or psychological pressure to encourage a student-athlete to

terminate a pregnancy.

Student-athletes participating in athletics during pregnancy can be medically

disqualified by their obstetrician and team physician due to the risk of sport

participation for the student-athlete and the integrity of the pregnancy. Student-

athletes may return to full-activity post-delivery.

The athletic department excess insurance policy does not cover pregnancy related

care. All costs associated with pregnancy are the responsibility of the student-athlete.

Non-Therapeutic Drugs, Supplements

APSU Athletic Department will use various resource to education student-athletes on

miscellaneous drugs and supplement usage in accordance with the NCAA yearly policy.

Student-athletes will sign paperwork in ATS that states they will report any medications

and supplements to their athletic trainer.

Medications and supplements should be reported to Asst. Athletic Director-Health and

Human Performance and will be checked through Drug Free Sport Axis.

Pregnancy

This policy has been developed to establish guidelines to protect the health,

confidentiality, scholarship and ability to participate of the pregnant student-athlete.

These guidelines will help the student-athlete make the best decisions concerning her

pregnancy and her future as a student-athlete.

Male student-athletes are not physically affected by pregnancy like female student-

athletes, but can experience an increase in stress over a pregnancy and worry about their

pregnant partner and her fetus. We encourage you to discuss these issues with your

partner and healthcare providers at the APSU Counseling Center, team physician or

athletic trainer.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Refusal to maintain weight at or above the minimally normal weight for height and age

Intense fear of weight gain

Distorted body image

Loss of 3 consecutive menstrual periods

Extreme concern for body weight and shape

Repeated episodes of bingeing and purging

Feeling out of control during a binge

Purging after a binge (vomiting, use of laxatives, diet pills, diuretics, excessive exercise

or fasting)

Frequent dieting

Extreme concern for body weight and shape

Amenorrhea or oligomenorrhea

Stress fracture, repeated stress fractures or multiple stress fractures

Slow healing time for injuries, repetitive injuries

Decrease in body weight or body fat, thinning of hair, dental problems

Admits to bingeing, purging, using diet pills or diuretics, strict dieting, restrictive

eating, chewing and spitting out food or other unusual dieting practices

Participates in additional exercise, in addition to regular workouts or practices, not

heeding advice from coach or athletic trainer concerning injury, recovery time.

Distorted body image, makes comments concerning body weight, body fat, etc

Weighing frequently, denying hunger, preoccupied with food, calories, nutrition or

cooking

NCAA Bylaw 15.3.4.2 states “institutional financial aid based in any degree on athletics

ability may be reduced or canceled during the period of the award if the recipient…

voluntarily withdraws from a sport at any time for personal reasons…” Pregnancy is

considered a temporary medical condition and Bylaw 12.8.1.3 in the NCAA Division I

Manual states that a member institution may approve a one-year extension of the five-

year period of eligibility for a female student-athlete for reasons of pregnancy. If you are

pregnant and you inform your athletic trainer and coach and you do NOT voluntarily

withdraw from your sport, your scholarship will remain in place for the remainder of the

granting year, July 1-June 30.

A student-athlete returning from pregnancy will be evaluated in the same manner as any

other team member to determine her specific position or role on the team.

Disordered Eating

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa along with other disordered eating are common

health problems faced by students on college campuses. Student-athletes are at a higher

risk for developing these disorders. It is a goal of APSU Sports Medicine Department to

identify, evaluate and help treat these disorders.

Anorexia nervosa – primarily characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss.

Symptoms include:

Bulimia nervosa – primarily characterized by a secretive cycle of binge eating following by

purging. Symptoms include:

All Athletic Department staff members are encouraged to notify the Asst. Athletic

Director-Health and Human Performance or sport athletic trainer of individuals that are

believed to be at risk of disordered eating.

Possible symptoms of concern include:

ATHLETIC TRAINING

Student-athlete will be referred to APSU team physician, sports dietitian and mental

health professional for further evaluation and to determine proper treatment.

Proper treatment may include, but is not limited to

Monitor, with no direct intervention

Psychological counseling

Nutrition counseling

Full physical with team physician

Maintain minimal bodyweight

For some patients, sensitive examinations may be especially threatening or confusing.

A chaperone may help the patient through the process with minimal distress. Sensitive

exams should not be performed outside the presence of a chaperone.

There may be physical, psychological and cultural reasons why chaperones are

requested or needed.

The Asst. Athletic Director-Health and Human Performance and sports athletic trainer will

meet with the student-athlete to discuss concerns regarding possible disordered eating

behavior.

Based on objective information shared in the meeting the steps below may be taken:

Return to play will be at the discretion of the APSU team physician in consultation with

the sports dietitian, mental health professional and sport athletic trainer. The release for

return to play will be documented through formal writing.

The Asst. Athletic Director-Health and Human Performance and sports athletic trainer will

share information with coaching staff and team members on a need-to-know basis to

assist the student-athlete.

If the student-athlete has not been medically cleared or if further intervention is

necessary, a team may be established to develop a formal healthcare plan and written

contract with the student-athlete which must be signed.

The team may consist of the following: student-athlete, student-athlete’s chosen rep,

team athletic trainer, Assistant AD for Health and Human Performance, Senior Women’s

Administrator, Team Physician.

The healthcare plan and contract developed will include a process for determining the

student-athlete’s compliance with the contract and consequences for non-compliance.

The student-athlete may or may not be cleared for athletic participation following review

of the pane.

Chaperone for Medical Evaluation

Austin Peay State University will provide patient chaperoned medical examinations and

related services to student-athletes, including, but not limited to physician or athletic

trainer exams, procedures or treatments, diagnostic tests, rehabilitation, massage therapy,

body composition assessments and/or other one-on-one appointments that are deemed

appropriate for the presence of a chaperone.

Necessary emergency care should never be impeded or delayed by this policy.

The purpose of this policy is to provide a consistent, standard and safe care environment

within APSU athletics. The policy promotes respect for the patient’s dignity and the

professional nature of the medical encounter.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

A chaperone is provided to help protect and enhance the student-athlete’s comfort,

safety, privacy, security and/or dignity during exams. The chaperone may also provide

the provider with assistance for the exam, procedure or therapy.

The presence of a chaperone may also help provide protection to the healthcare

professionals.

Whenever possible, the chaperone should be the same gender as the student-athlete.

The chaperone should be a full-time staff member of the APSU Sports Medicine staff

If an APSU Sports Medicine staff member is unavailable; then a coach or student-

athlete from the same team would be appropriate as a chaperone as long as both

parties agree.

A family member or friend may be present during sensitive exams or otherwise if it is

the express desire of the student-athlete but will not serve as a chaperone for the

purposes of this policy.

Chaperones will be provided to student-athletes for all one-on-one appointments in

closed door or private settings with physicians, athletic trainers, massage therapists,

or other healthcare providers; excluding mental health services. This policy will be

explained to the student-athlete and s/he has a right to decline any chaperone

offered. The refusal should be documented, for example “A chaperone was offered for

the examination/procedure/treatment/therapy on (date) but the student-athlete

requested that a chaperone not be present.

Chaperones will be mandatory for any sensitive exams and body composition

assessments.

A chaperone should stand in a location where s/he can assist as requested and

observe the exam, therapy or procedure.

Confidential clinician/student-athlete communication should generally take place after

the exam, procedure or therapy (without the chaperone present) unless the student-

athlete or provider requests otherwise.

If a physician from another team completes an exam the chaperone policy applies. In

such cases the athletic trainer can serve as the chaperone.

When another team physician or athletic trainer is not available to be the

chaperone, a medical representative, student-athlete or coach from the team may

serve as the chaperone if the student-athlete agrees.

A hotel room or other private hotel space should not serve as the location for

consultations, exams, treatments, rehabs, massage or other therapy and/or

procedures or medical activities involving student-athletes, unless there are no

other suitable spaces within the hotel or the practice/competition facilities

The chaperone is a person who is a witness or person of support for the student-athlete

and healthcare professional during medical examinations or treatments, diagnostic tests,

rehabilitation, massage therapy, body composition assessments, and/or other one-on-one

appointments as deemed appropriate.

At minimum, a “sensitive area” includes the pelvic/groin/rectal regional of both males and

females, the vagina/chest/breast region for females and any other region as deemed

appropriate by the treating healthcare professional as well as any procedure that would

necessitate the patient to disrobe any clothing.

It is recommended that a sensitive exam should be documented as follow: “The [sensitive

parts of the] examination were/was performed with (name, contact information and

position of the chaperone) in attendance present as a chaperone.” It should include

procedures, exam, therapies used and if consent was given.

ATHLETIC TRAINING

available. This excludes ankle taping prior to a game, which can be done in a hotel

room with the door propped open.

The opposing team sports medicine staff may serve as a chaperone if the student-

athlete consents.

A provider may request and have access to a chaperone. If the student-athlete

declines a chaperone, the provider may refuse to perform the exam, procedure or

therapy. Documentation of this should be included in the medical record.

The scope of the exam and reasons for exam should be explained to the patient and

documented in medical record.

A patient may full decline or refuse any portion of an exam. The refusal should be

documented.

The provider should allow privacy for a patient to dress and undress and a student-

athlete must be provided with an adequate gown or drape.

The provider should not assist with removing or replacing the patient’s clothing unless

there is a specific request from the student-athlete.

A student-athlete has the right to withdraw consent from any exam, treatment or

procedure.

A medical chaperone has the right to stop an exam, treatment or procedure.

A chaperone is obligated to report immediately any inappropriate or unacceptable

behavior to the Head Team Physician, Asst. Athletic Director- Health and Human

Performance and/or Title XI Rep

A chaperone shall be present for all exams, treatment, or procedures for any student-

athlete who lack capacity to give informed consent or is unable to protect him/herself

from abuse, neglect or exploitation including due to sedation, concussion,

unconsciousness or other temporary or indefinite impact on mental capacity. However, if

a chaperone is unavailable, necessary emergency care should be rendered and the

situation documented.

For sensitive exams:

SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY AND

STUDENT-ATHLETE MENTAL HEALTH

Ensure that all student-athletes have access to mental health support, counseling and

other resources;

Offer sport psychology and mental performance training to student-athletes, coaches,

and athletic staff wishing to elevate their game; and

Provide psychoeducation and training on mental health issues as they affect both

individuals and teams.

MISSION

The office of Sport Psychology and Student-Athlete Mental Health at Austin Peay State

University was developed to:

SCHEDULING AN APPOINTMENT

Anyone interested in scheduling an appointment may contact a member of the Sport

Psychology department:

Deja James, Director of Sport Psychology and Behavioral Health | [email protected]

Chantel Whitlow, Behavioral Health Specialist/ AOD | [email protected]

INDIVIDUAL COUNSELING

Individual Counseling Sessions provide an opportunity to talk with a therapist about your

mental health and well-being. Sessions usually last about 45 minutes, but can be shorter if

needed. These sessions will occur in a private office.

Student-athletes can attend these sessions for a variety of reasons:

SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY AND

STUDENT-ATHLETE MENTAL HEALTH

Stress, anxiety or worry

Sadness, Depression

Homesickness, Loneliness

Adjusting to college

Transition after sport

Relationships, Family problems

Disordered eating

Anger

Trauma

Grief, Loss

Pregnancy

LGBTQ topics

Identity development

Communication skills

Test anxiety

Self-esteem

Building confidence

Learning to focus

Setting effective goals

Developing routines/resets

Managing emotions

Regaining motivation

Relaxation/breathing skills

Visualization

Returning from injury

Communication skills

INDIVIDUAL SPORT PSYCHOLOGY SESSIONS

Through our office, we are also able to offer one-on-one sessions that are individualized

to fit your mental performance needs. Whether you are seeking to maximize an already

high level of performance, or are underperforming and want to improve, these meetings

provide you with the opportunity to discuss your situation in more depth and receive

individualized solutions.

Student-athletes may attend these sessions for some of the following:

Individual meetings with a sport psychology consultant generally occur on a once per

week basis, though the frequency of meetings will depend on your situation and needs.

Meetings usually are held in the office, though you may also meet in your performance

domain to directly observe your performance. Although the actual time of each meeting

may vary, it generally will last one hour.

REFERRALS

If we feel that more specialized or long-term treatment is needed, the student-athlete

may be referred to a campus counselor at Student Counseling Services. Referrals may

also be made to a number of external resources (e.g. specialized treatment center,

support group, inpatient-day program, etc.).

Call your coach, trainer, or sport administrator and they will contact the on-call

counselor,

Reach out to one of the mental health crisis resources below, or

If the crisis is putting you or another person’s safety at risk, please contact campus

police (931-221-7786), call 911, or go to your local hospital emergency room.

COST

There is no cost associated with attending any session within our office of Sport

Psychology and Student-Athlete Mental Health, nor if you attend counseling at APSU’s

Student Counseling Services. If you seek counseling through an outside provider, you

must manage those payments independently.

CONFIDENTIALITY

Everything discussed during a session is confidential, and will not be revealed or shared

with coaches, teammates, academic counselors, professors or parents, unless you grant

permission. In cases where your or another's safety is at risk, information may need to be

shared with others for your/other's protection. The office of Sport Psychology and

Student-Athlete Mental Health also coordinates care with athletic medicine, including with

your athletic trainer and sport medicine physician, but confidentiality remains paramount.

When therapeutically appropriate, we will encourage the student athlete to communicate

with coaches/trainers/academic counselors about their progress.

SUPPORT GROUPS AND WORKSHOPS

The office will be running a variety of groups throughout the year to offer support for

individuals who have a similar experience or provide skills related to a specific mental

health topic.

CRISIS

If you or a peer are experiencing a mental health crisis and need to speak to a counselor

immediately you can:

ADDITIONAL ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES

Student Counseling Service- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (931) 221-6162

Save Our Students (SOS) – Food Pantry - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (931) 221-6120

ADDITIONAL OFF-CAMPUS RESOURCES

Athlete Crisis Text Line- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Text TEAM to 741741

Tennessee Crisis Hotline - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (855) 274-7471

National Suicide Prevention Line- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -(800) 273-8255

Trevor Lifeline (LGBTQIA Help)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -(866) 488-7386

SafeSport Helpline (Sexual Assault Help)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (866) 200-0796

National Eating Disorders Association- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (800) 931-2237

Planned Parenthood- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -(800) 230-PLAN (7586)

Substance Abuse Support (SAMHSA)- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - (800) 662-HELP (4357)

SPORTS PSYCHOLOGY AND

STUDENT-ATHLETE MENTAL HEALTH

SPORT PERFORMANCE

Technical – The specific movements and skills that are specific to your sport, such as

tracking skills in tennis or foot eye coordination in soccer.

Tactical – The differing actions or strategies used to achieve success in your sport,

such as shot selection in golf or a defensive scheme in football.

Physical – The general physical characteristics needed to train for and compete in your

sport, such as basic motor skills, strength, stamina, suppleness, etc. We are guided by

an athlete-centered 9S Model as adopted from Z-Health Performance Solutions.

Mental – You will be intelligently and progressively pushed to your mental limit

throughout different times of your specific yearly training cycle. We will seek to

educate you to be transformed by the renewal of your mind and continually adopt

new and improving habits. You must be different than a student that does not

compete at the NCAA level while they are in school. You will have the opportunity to

progressively learn how to care for yourself so that you can adapt positively from each

training session and each mesocylce.

Thoughts and Emotions

Breathing

Hydration

Food & Nutrition

Movement & Exercise

Circadian Rhythms

MISSION

The mission of your Sports Performance Staff is to inspire you to become the best version

of yourself. We aim to help you realize your human potential during your time here at

Austin Peay State University and help plant seeds that will contribute to your wellness for

the rest of your life. We serve the Athletics Department as a whole by directly serving all

of our Student-Athletes and indirectly your sport coaches. We work hand in hand with

your sport coaches, your medical and academic team to help provide you with and elite

level standard of care. Our aim is to keep you protected and productive. Our priority

concerns are you safety and your durability. We realize you did not come to college to lift

weights. You are here because you are a good competitor within your respective arena. If

you are injured as a student-athlete, you are not realizing your potential. We will help you

stay healthy and “in the game!” We also work directly to help you evolve your

performance on and off the field. Again, we talk about safety and durability first because

it does not matter how strong or fast you are if you are hurt. We understand there are

four general performance components that encompass you as an athlete. They can all

blend into other components, but it is helpful to categorize each one.

We adopt all of our movements from a single primal movement or a combination of

many. The patterns are the Push, Pull, Squat, Bend, Lunge, Twist, & Gait. Quality

movement is of the utmost importance with our training system and we will progress

each athlete to their specific needs. Each new athlete will be slow-cooked and taught until

they are ready to progress. We operate on a tiered, multi-year developmental system.

You are already a great athlete within your respective sport. Our job is keep you on the

field and continuing to progress from game to game and from season to season. We are

not only interested in short-term gains, but also long-term health!

Sustenance: We are guided by and educate consistently about the six foundational

wellness principles. These principles will be at the forefront of our Wellness Educational

System. These principles are:

SPORT PERFORMANCE

Belief in the Mission: The one who prepares the best and believes will triumph.

Love for Teammates: Care for your people

Extreme Discipline: Commitment is what transforms a promise into reality.

Great Passion: Find the passion in this collective cause and lift one another up.

Harnessed Aggression: The great enthusiasm and aggressive emotions that are

rewarded on the athletic field of play, must be harnessed in “civilian life” and in the

emotional needs of other relationships.

Unwavering Diligence: Do not let society’s expectations or people outside of our

family stand in the way of the completion of the mission.

Unbridled Courage: “The one who at best knows in the end the triumph of high

achievement, and who at the worst if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, shall

never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.” Have

the courage to prepare and compete.

Be on Time – You will be ready to go with your proper equipment at least five (5)

minutes prior to any start time or you risk being late. There will be consequences for

tardiness.

Guiding Principle #1: Iron Sharpens Iron.

Championship organizations are filled with teammates who push one another in the right

ways! If you derive your motivation from the collective good, and you concern yourself

with sharpening your own sword, one rep, one play, one set, one game, and one day at a

time, you will unconsciously motivate those around you to do the same. Chase perfection

while you are training your body & mind in the weight room and on the field and we may

arrive for excellence along our journey.

Guiding Principle #2: The Law of the Jungle

Taken from the beginning of “The Law of the Wolves” by Rudyard Kipling.

“Now this is the law of the Jungle, as old and as true as the sky, And the wolf that shall

keep it may prosper, but the wolf that shall break it must die. As the creeper that girdles

the tree trunk, the law runneth forward and back; For the strength of the pack is the wolf,

and the strength of the wolf is the pack…”

Rely on your teammates and your teammates will rely on you. We invite you to always

keep the TEAM in focus while you are training your body and mind. If your WHY is

balanced between working to improve your individual SELF and the collective TEAM

during each training session and practice, WE have a great chance at CHAMPIONSHIP

CALIBER SEASONS.

How important is every member of the team? Imagine a chain with 100 individual links. If

99 of those links are solid and resilient but only one is compromised and weak, what will

happen if the chain as a whole is stressed? Our collective strength relies on each

individual member of the team, and EVERY member and EVERY role is important! Seek

strength from your teammates when you need to and give strength to others when they

may need it.

Core Tenants

Individual Humility and Collective Pride: Take great pride in your team, but humbly know

that we can accomplish nothing

Athlete Expectations

SPORT PERFORMANCE

Be Accountable – Communicate consistently and directly with your position coach

and your performance coach regarding any and all issues. Should an issue arise

regarding a scheduled training time you must do everything within your power to

communicate with your performance coach.

Be Coachable – Coaches want to teach athletes who are coachable. Be hungry to

grow and willing to do what it takes to learn what your coaches are teaching. Lean in if

it is hard to hear! Take ownership of your own development and the team’s growth!

Perfection is a moving target and every day you’re not seeking to improve, is a day

you let pass you by. As a Student-Athlete, you must be coachable and be able to

apply the previous practice sessions into the current one. This is the same with

Performance Training. Build upon your previous weight room or field session by

applying what you have previously learned. Do this consistently and you will continue

to build your armor, sharpen your individual sword, and thus make stronger the

collective chain of your Austin Peay State University Sport Team.

You Are Responsible for your Station at the End of Training – Leave the field or the

weight room better then when you found it!

Communicate Injuries Immediately – Be in consistent communication with the

Athletic Trainers and your Performance Coaches. It is better to over communicate in

this regard then to under communicate.

Stay on Task during Training – This is where eye and body language enters into the

conversation. There will be no sitting or leaning or crossing of the arms or any listless

and apathetic behavior of any kind tolerated during any training sessions; whether you

are on the field or in the weight room. There will always be something to do.

Understanding and training your body is a lifelong pursuit and perfection again is a

moving target. Whether it is injury prevention/pre-habilitation work paired with

exercises, spotting, loading or unloading weight or cleaning up your station, you are

expected to be engaged and in tune with all goings on within the given training

environment.

Wear APSU Gear at all Times

No Jewelry of Any Kind

Wear and Tie Athletic Shoes

No Food, Gum, or Tobacco at Any Time

Work as a TEAM and Motivate Each Other

Sports Performance: ABCs: “Actions Trigger Feelings, and Feelings Trigger Actions.

Attitude – This can be understood simply as your mental state. “A consistent organization

of beliefs, feelings, and behavior towards socially significant objects, groups, events, or

symbols.”

Behavior – Your attitude in any given situation, at any given time directly affects your

behavior. Behavior is simply understood as the way in which one acts or conducts oneself,

especially as it relates towards others.

Conduct – The way in which one consistently behaves throughout every rep, every set,

every play, and every day, i.e. their behavioral reputation, can be understood as their

conduct. Your conduct is the sum of your collective behavior, which is based upon your

consistent attitude!

SPORT PERFORMANCE

Building on the ABC’s, there are five aspects of your daily conduct that may be

scored. Hold yourself and your teammates to these standards EVERY DAY!

Positive Attitude

Intense Attention to Detail

Mission Possible Leadership

Great Passion

Winning Effort

Five Star Daily Training Standard

SPORTS EQUIPMENT

All players are required to wear issued practice and game gear. This gear must be

returned at the end of the competitive season. It is an NCAA violation to keep equipment

issued by the athletic department.

Athletes have the responsibility to help keep the locker room neat and clean. Practice

gear should not be left on the floor. Trash should be disposed of in the waste container.

Coaches should be notified if equipment is broken, lost, stolen, or worn out.

Conduct within the locker rooms should include respectful behavior as well as respect for

teammates’ property and university equipment.

DRUG POLICY

SEE APPENDIX A

ATHLETICS

COMMUNICATION

The Austin Peay the Athletics Communications Office consists of media specialists who

facilitate communication between the athletic department and its external constituents,

increase the awareness of and interest in Austin Peay Athletics, and publicize the

activities and accomplishments of its student-athletes, coaches, teams and athletic

department as a whole.

The Athletics Communications Office encourages and facilitates media coverage of

Austin Peay’s sport teams, student-athletes, and coaches. The University generally

encourages you, as student-athletes, to make yourself available to the media, especially

since you are tremendous representatives of the school. Both the Athletics

Communications Office and the media understand the many demands on your time,

further emphasizing communication between you and the Athletics Communications staff

when it comes to media access. The majority of interview requests for student-athletes

come through the Athletics Communications Office. The staff should be involved in

arrangements for every interview involving Austin Peay student-athletes.

When the Athletics Communications Office receives a request for an interview, someone

from the office will contact you or your coach. Appointments will be arranged around

your athletic and academic schedules. Do not be afraid to turn down or reschedule an

interview because of academic or other commitments you must keep. Most media are

more than willing to adapt their schedules to accommodate yours. If you have questions

about the importance or necessity of a media request, consult the staff member

responsible for your sport. We cannot control what the media prints or the story they

present. But, if we all cooperate and are honest, we can better guarantee positive stories.

In addition to coordinating interviews and arranging press conferences, the Athletics

Communications Office compiles and presents accurate information to the media on the

Governors athletics program, utilizing press releases, media guides, emails and phone

calls. The staff presents the latest news and statistics to the media and general public on

its official website, LetsGoPeay.com.

COMMUNICATION

Pause before speaking. While it is never wise to keep the media waiting for any

extended period of time, an athlete has a right to pause before speaking. Practice

saying, “I’d like to think for a moment before answering your question.”

Do not feel obligated to answer every question. Not every question can or should be

answered. Often, for whatever reason, an athlete has no answer to a question. Practice

saying, “For some reason, I can’t come up with an answer to your question.” In the

face of loaded and unclear questions that fail to provide fair options, the athlete has a

right not to answer. Practice saying, “I don’t know” or “I don’t think I can answer your

question” or “I don’t understand what you are asking.” After telling a reporter that a

question cannot be answered, nothing else needs to be said.

Call reporters by name. It is a matter of common courtesy to refer to a reporter by his

or her name. Such a practice personalizes comments by emphasizing that a

relationship exists between the athlete and the reporter. Such a practice is a right, not

a responsibility. Many athletes may not know names or feel comfortable in this role.

Show appropriate emotions for the circumstances. After a difficult game or practice,

an athlete has a right not to smile and appear happy. No athlete is expected to enjoy

talking about a loss, a disappointing performance, or not playing. Learning is not

always a happy task. At the same time, frowns, sarcasm, and mean looks never add

anything positive to an answer.

Select and employ your own words. Just because a reporter selects certain words

does not mean those same words have to be repeated in an answer. An athlete is

never obligated to answer a question using someone else’s words. Athletes have a

right to select their own words to explain thoughts and feelings. Unclear, offensive

words and negative language should never be repeated or included as part of an

answer.

Defer certain questions to other people. In media interviews, an athlete should never

speak for someone else. Certain questions are best answered by other people. In this

type of situation, an athlete has a right not to comment on things outside personal

experience, knowledge, and expertise. Defer all third-party questions to other people.

Practice saying, “Maybe you should ask Jimmy that question” or “I wasn’t on the field

when that happened; you need to ask someone who was” or “You’ll have to ask

Coach.”

Speak slowly and be yourself. Many questions can be answered quickly. Still, an athlete

has a right to answer questions slowly. At the same time, simple words should be

selected for usage. These words should be familiar to both athlete and reporter. In

addition to translating common-sense principles into clear messages, the athlete is

expected to think and communicate along certain lines.

Never “bad mouth” an opponent or the referees. Nothing is to be gained from saying

bad things about an opponent. The public does not like “trash talk.” Most people

admire a student-athlete who shows respect for his or her opponent and focuses on

his or her team’s performance rather than dwelling negatively on the opponent. Also,

any negative comments about officiating will be interpreted by the public as excuses.

Be cooperative. Reporters need your comments for stories. If you make yourself

available to answer their questions, they will appreciate it because it makes them look

more professional.

Do not be defensive. Attitude is everything. Stay calm; remain in control in all

situations.

Think before you answer. Reporters are often in a hurry because of deadline pressures.

Do not feel rushed or goaded into giving quick answers. Speak clearly with the proper

rhythm. Avoid clichés.

TIPS FOR STUDENT-ATHLETES WORKING WITH THE MEDIA

COMMUNICATION

Listen to the question carefully. Make sure you understand the question before you

answer. If you do not understand, ask for clarification or have the interviewer repeat the

entire question.

Personal appearance counts. Maintain good eye contact with the reporter and do not

worry about the camera. Keep your voice strong and animated. Also, dress

appropriately.

Say “Thanks.” Your final actions in the interview may leave the strongest impression with

the reporter. Make every encounter a memorable one – chances are you will receive

more favorable stories in the future.

Act ethically. Never lie to a reporter. It is unethical for an athlete to be untruthful with

members of the media. An athlete should always answer questions honestly. Beyond

this, the athlete is under no obligation to volunteer additional information.

Provide short answers. Short and simple answers are the best. They are easy to quote.

Answers with a central theme that is clear can prevent an athlete from rambling for

minutes. When answers drag on, the likelihood increases of being misquoted, words or

phrases taken out of context or saying something that was not intended for the media.

Adhere to the 25-second rule in media interviews. Effective interviewees answer in sixty

words or less. They employ language that is clear, direct, and constructive, all set to a

deadline. Their answers reflect a singular viewpoint and maintain consistent reasoning

while avoiding contradictory information.

Say what you mean at the beginning of an answer. Audiences normally remember the

first thing said, not the last. Deductive patterns of arrangement are mandated during

media interviews. They are the signature of an effective communicator. Here, key ideas

are placed at the beginning of each answer where they appear isolated. Details are

presented only when there is need, interest, and time. It is wise to speak to a set number

of points. Normally, no more than three points should be stressed during any answer. It

is important to remember that straightforward questions deserve straight-to-the-point

answers.

Avoid jargon. Effective communicators speak English and not sports-specific terms.

Whenever possible, stay conversational. Avoid highly specialized language that few

people living outside the white lines understand. If jargon is used, be willing to explain it.

Practice modesty in victory and self-control in defeat. In victory and defeat, the good

communicator controls emotions and language.

Never speak “off the record.” This type of statement can be interpreted as an open

admission that the athlete is not always open and honest with people. Athletes who

attempt to speak in private tones appear to be dishonest and manipulative. Besides,

there are no such things as “off-the-record” comments. Sooner or later, restricted

information will be reported by the media and become a matter of public record.

Never say, “No comment.” No comment is a poor answer. This type of statement can

create suspicion and mistrust in the minds of the audience. If an athlete has nothing to

say, no answer should be forthcoming. Simply say, “I’d rather discuss something else.” If

the reporter persists, politely end the interview

Never joke with a reporter. While questions may appear funny, answers should always be

serious. The tendency to joke or match wits with a reporter is an open invitation to

trouble. An athlete never knows how an answer will appear in print or sound on the

evening news.

Keep your cool. Athletes should never feel intimidated by cameras, bright lights, tape

recorders or microphones being pushed into their faces, being interrupted, differences in

opinions, offensive language, stupid or accusatorial questions, statements of so-called

facts, or reporters leaving in the middle of an answer.

COMMUNICATION

They should “keep their cool” when pressure mounts. On a different subject, question-

and-answer sessions are not the time to get angry, argue, attack the officials, question

a coach, or joke and display humor.

Act professional at all times. Whenever possible, concentrate on being the “good guy”

who is above pettiness and unprofessional behavior. Such a pose builds integrity and

enhances credibility in the eyes of the audience. Most audiences are sophisticated

enough to recognize rudeness in any form.

Never embarrass a reporter or ridicule a question. If a question is poorly worded or

has been asked before, an athlete should be patient. Practice understanding. Attempt

to understand why the question is being asked and answer the best you can. It is

never wise to point out the limitations of a question.

Do not spend too much time talking about a negative or a loss. Negative comments

make headlines. Audiences assimilate and remember negative information more

accurately than positive information. Whenever possible, share positive accounts and

information. Therefore, when the game ends, an athlete should be encouraged to

direct attention to (a) communicating the progress made and (b) the job of the team

in the coming days. Words will never change the score or alter a game performance.

Whenever possible, voice optimism with regard to the future.

Be alert to reporters’ needs. It is always a good practice for athletes to look at

reporters, measure their response, and adjust accordingly. For example, if they appear

to be having problems writing down answers, speak more slowly. When reporters

shake their heads, frown, appear frustrated, it might be best to repeat key words to

ensure accuracy

Support teammates and your school. Honor the natural bonds that exist in

relationships. You should respect and always support your teammates. Remain

sensitive and never make negative remarks regarding others’ performances. Finally,

never appear on camera wearing another team’s letters, logo, or colors. It may be an

accepted practice, but it is in bad taste. Pride is expected and is demonstrated

through the way an athlete speaks and appears in public.

SOCIAL MEDIA GUIDELINES

PURPOSE STATEMENT

Austin Peay State University is dedicated to fostering a community of stakeholders who

support the mission and purpose of the athletic department.

In order to accomplish this, we realize the importance of communicating using social and

new media channels. Because today’s stakeholder base is diverse and is pulling

information from a number of different sources, we realize that we need to be where our

stakeholders are to deliver timely, accurate and engaging information and content.

In order to do this, we (will) foster conversations in communities that are built by Austin

Peay Athletics, its employees, and our stakeholders. Because the lines between personal

voice and institutional voice are often blurred, Austin Peay Athletics has crafted the

following guidelines to help clarify how best to enhance and protect personal and

professional reputations when participating in social and new media.

Student-athletes are expected to follow the same behavioral standards online as are

mandated by Austin Peay State University’s Policies and Procedures, the state of

Tennessee, the ASUN Conference and the NCAA. The same guidelines for interacting

online with stakeholders, fellow staff, student-athletes or other university constituents

apply as in the workplace.

SOCIAL MEDIA

All photos, podcasts, videos, blogs, news stories, or other information not authored by

an account manager should be used only in compliance with copyright laws. We

always ask you to cite your sources and include a link to the main athletic website, if

appropriate.

Do NOT engage a poster who desires confidential information via a Facebook wall,

public/unlocked tweet, public forum posting, or the like. If in doubt, ask your SID

(sports information director), Compliance Director or Director of Athletics.

As a face of your athletic team and Austin Peay Athletics, fans and members of the

media will be interested in your opinion about things going on in your specific sport,

with your team or issues affecting the university or society.

You are entitled to your opinion! Be thoughtful in your answers because they could

easily be misconstrued as a representation of your entire team, your coaches, the

Austin Peay Athletics administration and/or Austin Peay State University.

Do not conduct any interviews via ANY social media site without prior consent from

your sport’s SID. Please allow Sports Information to schedule all interviews for you

with ANY media outlet, including campus or hometown newspapers and radio

stations, as well as local and/or national media.

We will work around your class and practice schedules to make sure your time is

respected.

Don’t link to an external site promoting a product or service that is not affiliated with

Austin Peay Athletics.

Be careful using jargon that only a handful of posters will understand. Try to use

inclusive language in your posts that encourage discussion.

Make sure your facts (times, dates, locations, names, etc.) are correct and are spelled

correctly. Don’t speculate.

DEFINITIONS

Social and New Media are defined as media designed to communicate online through

social interaction using highly accessible public publishing forums such as, but not limited

to, Facebook, Twitter, Linked In, YouTube, Flickr, Vimeo, iTunes, Snap Chat, Instagram,

and other social platforms.

Personal Site is defined as a social media site that is for the sole purpose of personal use.

There are NO identifications of the person as a representative of Austin Peay Athletics

and content is restricted to personal and not work-related material. The guidelines in this

document are not intended to regulate personal sites. If you have an account with your

name as the title, it is only classified as a personal site if it is NOT used for personal

branding (see below).

Public Site is defined as a social media site where a person represents Austin Peay

Athletics as a representative of an athletic team or program. This includes personal

branding sites in which employees maintain an account that promotes their own person,

but as a position facilitated by their employment with Austin Peay Athletics. An example

of this might be a student-athlete’s blog, unless it is a personal site (see above).

RULES OF ENGAGEMENT—SPECIFIC GUIDELINES

Proprietary Information and Confidentiality

Comments and Interviews

Accuracy and Clarity

SOCIAL MEDIA

Do not post information about specific student-athletes, including whereabouts,

personal family information (unless previously cleared with the student-athlete and

his/her family) unless it is related to an award or honor. Please follow the guidelines of

FERPA and good taste.

Do not post information about specific student-athlete injuries, including your own. Do

not discuss specifics of an injury that may occur in an athletic contest. If the injury is

season or career ending and the information already has been officially released by

the specific program’s SID or Director of Media Relations, you may repost any

information released by Sports Information

Do not post specific travel information, including commercial or charter airline flight

numbers, and hotel property addresses/locations and room numbers, for any student-

athlete, coaching staff member or administrator.

Do not post addresses/locations of Governors Club members, administrators, faculty

or staff members, or families of student-athlete who may be providing an NCAA

sanctioned ‘occasional team meal’ (NCAA Bylaw 16.11.1.5).

Do not post information regarding prospective student-athletes, campus visits, etc.

Do not talk about internal matters in the department, the Austin Peay State University

campus, the ASUN Conference or the NCAA. Find something good to say, or don’t say

it. Do not bash teammates or fellow coaches/staff members. Do not bash the

competition. Do not bash the officials. Specifics on politics and religion are off limits,

with the exception of any holiday greetings. Do not gender bash. Do not engage in or

respond to hate speech in regards to sexuality or sexual orientation. Common sense

and courtesy should always prevail.

Avatars must be tasteful, especially if you are using an image of yourself with Austin

Peay Athletics or Austin Peay State University apparel on.

If you are posting as a team representative, the following posting guideline can be

posted within the profile information on all social media accounts managed by Austin

Peay Athletics: “The official (insert specific social media name) account of the Austin

Peay (insert specific program name) team. Please visit www.LetsGoPeay.com for

additional information.

In the event of the creation of and/or moderation of a wall, blog or forum, the

following posting guideline can be posted:

“We invite you to become a part of the (insert specific Austin Peay program/entity

name) here and post or comment on a regular basis. Austin Peay Athletics is

dedicated to building a safe and secure online community. We ask that you not use

graphic language, post offensive images, or use language that is derogatory to

specific people, countries of origin, races, creeds, nationalities, religions or gender

(maybe include sexuality). Any comments or posts that violate these posting

guidelines will be removed without explanation by the account manager.”

Posting is the same as speaking in public. Do not post anything you wouldn’t say at a

public meeting representing Austin Peay State University, Austin Peay Athletics or to

the media.

Be careful not to engage with posters who are commenting on matters related to the

department’s reputation, including on how any issue was handled. Please alert Sports

Information if this is a concern.

Sportsmanship

Disclaimers and Posting Guidelines

Respect in the Social Media Space

SOCIAL MEDIA

Do not pick fights and do not engage in them.

Answer legitimate questions.

Do not use a question as a forum for your personal opinion.

Respect people’s opinions. There may be circumstances in which it may be necessary

to limit access of a poster or delete a post- use the above posting guideline as a

resource if you need to delete a post or ban a poster. If you are in doubt, contact your

SID. Please print a hard copy of the questionable post with the name of the poster and

text before you delete it and give it to Sports Information to file.

If you maintain a Twitter or Facebook account, please check your followers regularly

for Twitter porn, offensive bots or unsavory profile pictures. Unfriend, report them as

spam and block them from your followers list, if possible. Their profiles and avatars are

available to anyone who looks at your page.

Do NOT give out phone numbers, addresses, personal email addresses, or other

personal information about yourself, other staff members or student-athletes on any

social media site. Inquiries for information, including interview requests, MUST be

directed to the program’s SID.

Security

Appendix A

Ausn Peay State University

Department of Athlecs

Drug Tesng, Educaon and Counseling – Policies and Procedures

The Department of Athlecs at Ausn Peay State University is commied not only to the

physical and mental health and well-being of its student-athletes, but it is also concerned with

the health, safety and welfare of the student-athletes who parcipate in its programs and

represent the University in Intercollegiate Athlecs. The improper use of prescripon drugs,

use of illicit street drugs, use of diurecs, and use of performance enhancers / dietary

supplements (legal or illegal) can have a negave eect on the health and performance of

student-athletes. It is for this reason that random drug tesng is conducted per NCAA Bylaws

and aested to by student-athletes in the annual NCAA Drug Tesng Consent form.

Instuonal drug tesng is also conducted by the Ausn Peay State University Department of

Athlecs for these purposes and in the manner herein dened. The purposes of drug tesng

and educaon are as follows:

To serve as a deterrent to the use of illicit drugs and banned substances

To idenfy those who are using these illicit drugs and banned substances

To promote educaon for all student-athletes

To provide counseling and treatment services for student-athletes

To avoid harm to the reputaon of the student-athlete, Ausn Peay State University and

all those connected to its intercollegiate athlec department

Compliance and Eligibility: As a condion of eligibility, all student-athletes must sign an NCAA

Drug Tesng Consent form in which student-athletes consent to be tested by the NCAA for the

use of “banned substances” prohibited by NCAA legislaon. In addion, all student-athletes

must sign the Ausn Peay State University Athlecs Drug Tesng Consent form to allow for

tesng and limited release of test results, as set forth in these procedures. Tesng will be

conducted for all student-athletes on the squad list, including student-athletes acvely

parcipang, student-athletes with medical limitaons, student-athletes who are red-shirted

and student-athletes who are paral or non-qualiers. Any student-athlete who refuses to sign

the Ausn Peay State University Athlecs Drug Tesng Consent form will be declared ineligible

for parcipaon in intercollegiate athlecs. Nothing in this policy shall be construed to create a

contract between student-athletes and APSU. However, signed consent and nocaon forms

shall be considered armaon of a student-athlete’s agreement to the terms and condions

contained within this policy.

Banned Substance List / Informaon: The Athlecs Department at APSU ulizes the most

current NCAA List of Banned Drug Classes found in the NCAA Bylaws hereinaer collecvely

referred to as “banned substances” for its drug tesng policy. The list consists of substances

Appendix A

generally believed to be performance enhancing and or potenally harmful to the health and

safety of the student-athlete. The drug classes specically include but are not limited to:

Smulants, Anabolic Agents, Alcohol & Beta Blockers, Diurecs and Other Masking

Agents, Street Drugs, Synthec Drug Substances, Pepde Hormones and Analogues, An-

Estrogens and Beta-2 Agonists

NOTES: The student-athlete shall be held accountable for all drugs within the banned drug

classes. Any substance chemically related to these classes (i.e.: synthec drugs) is also banned,

regardless of whether they have been specically idened.

APSU explicitly reserves the right to test for substances not listed on the NCAA Banned Drug

Classes List and to test at detecon levels that vary from those of the NCAA. APSU has a “ZERO

TOLERANCE” for substance misuse and/or abuse.

For purposes of this policy, drugs falling under the category of “Anabolic Agents”, “Pepde

Hormones and Analogues” and “An-Estrogens and Beta-2 Agonists” will be considered

Performance Enhancing Drugs and be subject to greater penalty.

Medical (or Therapeuc) Use Excepons: Student-athletes who are taking prescripons or

non-prescripon medicaons, under the direcon of a licensed physician, are required to

report any/all medicaons currently being taken to the Athlec Training Sta via their medical

history forms as part of their annual pre-parcipaon physical exam (or if medicaons are

prescribed during the school year, these medicaons must be reported to the Assistant Director

of Athlecs-Health and Human Performance (Asst. AD-HHP) (or designee) before use). If aer

reviewing this informaon, further documentaon is necessary, the student-athlete will be

noed and will have to provide further informaon from their treang physician as explained

in the medical excepons packet. Failure to report medicaons and provide necessary medical

documentaon from the treang physician can result in a posive drug tesng result – for

either an APSU or NCAA drug test.

Prescripon Drug Posive Tests: Student-athletes must have a current, valid prescripon from

a licensed physician in order to take prescripon medicaons. Student-athletes will be

assessed a drug test posive under any of the following circumstances:

1. Taking another person’s prescripon medicaon.

2. Taking prescripon medicaons without a valid prescripon

3. Taking prescripon medicaons without a current prescripon**

**In the event that you have medicaon remaining from an old prescripon and you take the

medicaon without knowledge of the Athlec Training Sta and without the acve supervision

of a medical doctor, you will also receive a substance abuse posive. If you are not under the

care of the medical sta for an injury/illness you should not ulize old medicaon without

clearance from a medical doctor. Medicaon over 3 months old taken without Athlec Training

Sta knowledge will result in a Posive of the APSU Drug Tesng Policy.

A one (1) game suspension may be assessed if it is determined that a student-athlete provides

his/her prescripon medicaon to another student-athlete.

Appendix A

Drug Tesng Procedure

All APSU intercollegiate student-athletes (including student-athletes who have sustained career

ending injuries) may be tested for banned substances. Tesng will be accomplished by the

analysis of urine specimens, or other recognized analycal procedures, obtained from the

student-athlete at the direcon of the Supervising Team Physician(s) or Assistant AD-HHP (or

designee). The tesng procedure will ensure that the specimen being analyzed is idened

with the appropriate student-athlete and that the purity of the sample is maintained. All

specimens will be coded to ensure condenality. All specimens will be collected in a manner

so as to minimize the possibility of contaminaon or misidencaon.

Frequency of Tesng: All student-athletes may be tested at or around the me of their PRE-

PARTICIPATION PHYSICAL EXAM. Student-athletes are also subject to random sampling and

reasonable cause tesng throughout the calendar year (including vacaon breaks).

Appendix A

Randomizaon of Drug Tesng: Throughout the calendar year, randomized drug tesng will be

performed. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) or the cered tesng drug tesng agency for

the school year will randomize the selecon of athletes from all sports. A current student-

athlete roster for each of the selected sports will be ulized and a computer randomizaon

program will select the desired number of student-athletes or percentage of team members to

be tested. Due to the randomizaon of selecon, some student-athletes may be chosen to be

tested more than once during the school year.

Reasonable Suspicion Drug Tesng: Reasonable suspicion is dened as one founded on

specic, objecve facts, which if taken with raonal inferences drawn from those facts, and

taken as a whole strongly suggest that drug tesng may produce evidence of improper use.

Reasonable suspicion tesng may also be performed for medically warranted reasons as

determined by the Supervising Team Physician(s).

Athlec Director’s Discreon Tesng: An individual student-athlete or team may be tested at any me without

noce and without reasonable cause at the discreon of the Director of Athlecs.

When an Athlec Director’s Discreon Test is performed the student-athlete’s chain of custody form will indicate

the reason for tesng as “Other – AD Test".

Any and all correcve measure(s) for a posive Athlec Director’s Discreon Test will be decided on by the

Director of Athlecs. This may or may not include the guidelines for compeon sancons that are listed within

this policy under the “Sancons for Non-Performance Enhancing Oenses” & “Sancons for Performance

Enhancing Oenses” secons listed below.

NCAA Championships or Post-season: All student-athletes parcipang in NCAA

Championships or Post Season Events may be tested prior to their compeon in their

respecve post-season event.

Team Tesng: A team may be tested at any me without noce and without a reasonable

cause at the discreon of the Director of Athlecs, Assistant AD-HHP or Head Coach.

Nocaon of an Impending Test: The student-athlete will be noed by the athlec training

sta or coaching sta of the impending drug test. The student-athlete also acknowledges that

failure to report at the me and date specied for the drug test will result in disciplinary acon

according to the APSU Athlec Department’s policies. Failure to appear for a scheduled drug

test and/or to produce an adequate specimen will be handled according to the NCAA

regulaons. These regulaons spulate a posive test result for any student-athlete’s failure to

submit an adequate specimen.

Collecon Procedure:

1. All collecons will be done, in principle, according to the NCAA protocol and follow

approved chain of custody procedures.

2. The Athlec Department’s collecon team or designee will carry out all collecons.

3. All student-athletes selected for tesng must report to the athlec training room at the

me and date specied wearing shorts and a t-shirt. Student-athletes will not be

permied to intake uids unl an inial specimen is produced to determine proper

Specic Gravity and pH levels (see below).

4. Student-athletes must bring their picture ID to every collecon.

Appendix A

5. Student-athletes must declare any prescripon, over the counter medicaon and/or

nutrional supplement that he/she has taken within the past two weeks.

6. To maintain condenality, each specimen will be given a unique ID number. The

Assistant AD-HHP will keep in a secure place the sample number and name correlaon

document for reference upon receipt of the conrmed posive results.

7. Each sample will be collected under direct observaon by the same gender collecon

team member.

8. The student-athlete will be asked to wash and dry hands and proceed to the appropriate

collecon area. The student-athlete will be required to lower all are below the waist

to below his/her knees and to raise all upper are to the chest. The specimen

collecon kit can be opened once the student-athlete follows the above-menoned

protocol.

9. Each specimen (no less than 65 mL) will be checked for Specic Gravity (> 1.005), pH

(4.5-7.5) and temperature (90-100-degrees F) and split into two aliquots, an “A” and “B”

specimen. The student-athlete will inial the security tape. The collector will date the

security tape. Both “A” and “B” aliquots are sealed with this security tape.

10. One container will be used for tesng purposes and the other container will be frozen

and stored by the tesng laboratory in case there is an appeal to the test results.

11. If the specimen is incomplete, the student-athlete must remain in the collecon staon

unless otherwise directed by the collecon team member. During this period, the

student-athlete is responsible for keeping the collecon beaker closed and controlled,

unless otherwise directed by the collecon team member.

12. If the specimen is incomplete and the student-athlete must leave the collecon staon

for a reason approved by the collecon team member, the specimen may be discarded

at the discreon of the collecon team member. Upon return to the collecon staon,

the student-athlete will complete the collecon procedure.

13. All NCAA rules against urine manipulaon are applicable.

a. The student-athlete and collector will sign cerfying that the procedures were

followed as described in the protocol. Any deviaon from the procedures must

be described and recorded at that me. If deviaons are alleged, the student-

athlete will be required to provide another specimen.

b. Aer the collecon has been completed, the specimens will be forwarded to the

laboratory

c. All specimens are the property of APSU.

d. A student-athlete who refuses to sign the nocaon form or custody and

control form, fails to arrive at the collecon staon at the designated me

without juscaon, fails to provide a urine specimen according to protocol,

leaves the collecon staon before providing a specimen according to protocol,

or aempts to alter the integrity or validity of the urine specimen and/or

collecon process, will be in breach of protocol and treated as if there was a

posive test for a banned substance.

14. Any eort by a student-athlete to adulterate or modify theirs or any other urine

specimen prior to or at the me of collecon will result in an automac “posive test”

requiring appropriate acon as dened by this policy. These eorts to “adulterate or

Appendix A

modify” include but are not limited to any type of product that is ingested or added to

the urine sample or the non-medical use of diurecs in an eort to

dilute/manipulate/mask the urine sample.

15. Containers will be refrigerated and kept under lock and key unl samples are collected

by courier for transfer to the laboratory. All laboratory tesng shall be conducted under

the auspices of a company to be named during the year. The laboratory shall not nofy

anyone other than the Team Physician or Assistant AD-HHP of test results.

16. If a specimen arrives at the laboratory with the security tape not intact or if the chain of

custody is broken at any point of the process, APSU Athlecs Department administrators

may collect another specimen without noce.

17. The Assistant AD-HHP or his/her designee will be the site coordinator for all tesng

purposes and will have the nal authority over the procedures and implementaon of

the APSU drug-tesng program.

Safe Harbor Program: A student-athlete eligible for the APSU Safe Harbor Program may refer

him/herself to the Program for voluntary evaluaon, tesng and counseling. A student-athlete

is NOT eligible to enter the Safe Harbor Program:

1. More than one me during his/her athlec eligibility (career) at APSU

2. Aer he/she has been informed of an impending APSU (or NCAA) drug test

3. Aer receiving a posive test on an APSU or NCAA drug test (or other tesng agency, to

include, but not limited to addional sporng agencies (USOC, IOC), law enforcement,

medical system or the University’s judicial system)

4. Thirty days prior to NCAA or conference postseason compeon

The APSU Safe Harbor Program does not give a student-athlete protecon from an NCAA

drug test, thus, student-athletes in the Safe Harbor Program may be selected for drug tesng

by the NCAA.

Once a student-athlete declares for the Safe Harbor Program, he/she will undergo an

evaluaon by a cered counselor. He/she will meet with a Supervising Team Physician(s) to

determine any physical risks involved in connued parcipaon and if medically indicated, the

physician may suspend the student-athlete from athlecs related acvies.

During the evaluaon process, the student-athlete will be required to idenfy the substance(s)

– or alcohol – used for which assistance is requested. The student-athlete will immediately be

drug tested to establish a possible baseline of the banned substance(s) or metabolite contained

in the student-athlete’s urine specimen. The results of this baseline test will not result in any

administrave sancons. The student-athlete will be tested as oen as deemed necessary in

order to document cessaon of drug use.

Guidelines for Baseline Test Negave: Aer a Safe Harbor negave baseline test, any

subsequent posive drug test will be considered addional use by the student-athlete. At this

me, the student-athlete will be removed from the Safe Harbor Program and will follow all of

the sancon guidelines for a second oense.

Appendix A

Guidelines for Baseline Test Posive: Aer a Safe Harbor posive baseline test, any

subsequent posive drug test result must indicate cessaon of drug use. Tesng is performed

in a quantave manner and results are normalized on the basis of urine specic gravity in

order to determine the concentraon of the banned substance in the student-athlete’s urine

specimen. These normalized concentraons are used to monitor the expected uninterrupted

decreases in drug or drug metabolite concentraons overme that are expected when drug use

has stopped. If the normalized concentraon of banned substance increases signicantly (>20%

or more) in any subsequent sample, then those test results will be considered addional use

and the student-athlete will follow all of the sancon guidelines for the second oense (an

independent toxicologist with experience in the eld of drugs of abuse tesng may be ulized

as a technical resource as needed to clarify any quesons pernent to the test). Aer the

student-athlete submits a sample which is free of any banned substance(s) or metabolite, any

addional posive test will be considered addional use by the student-athlete. The student-

athlete will be removed from the Safe Harbor Program and will follow all of the sancon

guidelines for a second oense.

In all cases, the cered counselor in conjuncon with the Supervising Team Physician(s) and

the Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) shall determine the appropriate form(s) of intervenon and

rehabilitaon needed by the student-athlete, based on the circumstances of the case. The

student-athlete will be permied to remain in the Safe Harbor Program for a reasonable period

of me, not to exceed forty-ve (45) days. The Supervising Team Physician(s) or Assistant AD-

HHP may extend the me a student-athlete is allowed to remain in the Safe Harbor Program if

there is sucient evidence such an extension would benet the student-athlete. Failing to

complete the treatment recommended by the cered counselor, the Supervising Team

Physician(s) and/or Assistant AD-HHP aer entering the Safe Harbor Program will be deemed a

second oense.

The Director of Athlecs, Supervising Team Physician(s), Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) and

the student-athlete’s Head Coach may be informed of the student-athlete’s parcipaon in the

Safe Harbor Program. The student-athlete will also be encouraged to inform his/her parents

(legal guardian, spouse). The athlec trainer assigned to the student-athlete’s sport may also

be noed if medically appropriate. The assistant coaching sta may also be informed at the

discreon of the Head Coach. Other University employees may be informed only to the extent

necessary for the implementaon of this policy. The APSU Athlecs Department does not

guarantee success through its support and assistance.

Nocaon of Results and Condenality: Maintaining condenality and protecon of the

student-athlete is a crical factor in drug tesng. All drug test results will be sent, via protected

electronic submission, to the Assistant AD-HHP (or designee). The wrien documentaon of

the drug tesng results is considered to be medical records and as such, shall remain in the

condenal possession of the Assistant AD-HHP (or designee). However, test results, (whether

the test is posive or negave) not documentaon, may be released as follows. The Assistant

AD-HHP will nofy the Supervising Team Physician(s). The Supervising Team Physician(s) will

determine any physical risks involved in connued parcipaon and if medically indicated, the

physician may suspend the student-athlete from athlecs related acvies. The Assistant AD-

HHP will nofy the Director of Athlecs, Head Coach and counseling services of a posive drug

Appendix A

test. The Director of Athlecs may authorize that addional administrave assistants be

informed of a student-athlete’s drug tesng results if appropriate to the situaon. Head

Coaches are permied, but not mandated, to inform their respecve assistant coaches of any

test results. Any individual receiving informaon regarding a test result is required to preserve

condenality at all mes. The student-athlete will be asked to nofy his/her parents (legal

guardian, spouse). If it is deemed necessary for the well-being of the student-athlete, the

Director of Athlecs (or designee) may choose to inform the student-athlete’s parents (legal

guardian, spouse) of any and all drug tesng results. The APSU Athlec Department’s Drug

Policy Sancons will then be followed, based on whether the posive test is a rst, second or

third oense.

Every eort must be made to protect the condenality of student-athletes under this policy,

including those who test posive, undergo reasonable-cause tesng, or enter treatment

programs. Under no circumstances, will any athlecs department personnel or any individual

associated with the drug tesng program be permied to disclose publicly any informaon

acquired in their capacity, whether or not it relates to idened student-athletes, individual

teams, or the athlecs department. In addion, individual results will not be given to any other

department within APSU unless deemed necessary by the Director of Athlecs, the Supervising

Team Physician(s) or Assistant AD-HHP.

Individual results of drug tesng performed by the athlecs department will not be released to

any other party unless deemed necessary by the Supervising Team Physician(s) or the Assistant

AD-HHP (or designee) for the treatment of the individual. Individual results may be obtained

through subpoena by a court of law. Individual or group results may be used for stascal

analysis or publicaons.

Upon approval (and within FERPA guidelines), the Athlecs Sports Informaon Director will

address all quesons from the media regarding a suspended student-athlete. All informaon

and records will remain condenal to the extent permied by law. Quesons to the Sports

Informaon Director regarding the student-athlete’s parcipaon status or lack thereof

(including permanent suspensions) will be answered in terms of a violaon of athlec

department policy (with the student-athlete’s return to be determined at a later date) without

menon of the department’s drug tesng policy or terms therein. All results and impending

sancons will remain condenal to the extent permied by law.

Sancons for a Violaon of the APSU Drug Tesng Policy: Sancons for a posive test result

may be assessed to the student-athlete in any of the following circumstances:

a. Tesng of a student-athlete’s specimen by a professional laboratory yields a posive

result of any of the banned substance(s) or metabolite. An independent toxicologist

with experience in the eld of drugs of abuse tesng may be ulized as a technical

resource as needed to clarify any quesons pernent to the test.

b. Tampering, manipulaon or adulteraon of sample

c. Failure to comply / parcipate in both tesng and/or sancon phases (ie. Missed

counseling session)

d. Involvement in a criminal oense – unless otherwise specically stated in this policy

– sancons will be at the discreon of the Director of Athlecs

Appendix A

e. Failure of an NCAA drug test

Failure to execute the required Drug Tesng Consent Form, not signing the chain of custody

forms, not appearing for tesng, not producing the required specimen or aempng to

circumvent the specimen collecon and tesng process, will be treated as a posive test result

subject to the sancons set forth below.

Criminal Oenses: Please refer to the Student-athlete Code of Conduct for guidelines

pertaining to criminal oenses. The disciplinary guidelines are separate and apart from any

criminal prosecuon resulng from the incident and, in most cases, the disciplinary guidelines

set forth by the Director of Athlecs would occur well in advance of the legal disposion of the

maer. Criminal oenses may include but are not limited to the following:

Driving under the inuence (DUI, DWI)

Minor in a bar, possession or under the inuence

Public intoxicaon

Drunk and disorderly

Other drug or alcohol oense including possession

Intent to Sale: Any APSU student-athlete arrested for the selling of drugs or possession of

drugs with intent to sell according to the laws of the state in which the oense occurs will be

immediately suspended from their respecve team pending legal acon. Convicon of above

will result in immediate release from the team and terminaon of athlec aid.

Pre-parcipaon Physical Exam Tesng: All NEW student-athletes, freshmen and transfers,

may be tested within the rst 2 weeks of their pre-parcipaon physical or within the rst 2

weeks of the start of classes at the beginning of the Fall Semester. This test will be considered a

component of the pre-parcipaon physical exam. Therefore, unless a performance enhancing

drug is detected, the student-athlete will not be assessed any compeon sancon unless

removal from compeon is considered to be warranted by the team physician(s). If a student-

athlete produces a posive test from the pre-parcipaon physical test, the following will

occur:

1. For performance enhancing drugs – all appropriate guidelines will be followed,

including sancons for a PED oense.

2. For non-performance enhancing drugs – inially, no compeon sancons will be

assessed unless

warranted by the team physician(s) for safety reasons. Thereaer, all guidelines will

be followed for the poron of this policy as it relates to Follow-up Tesng. If within

the process of follow-up tesng it is determined that the student-athlete has

a. Connued use of the banned substance

Appendix A

And/or

b. Used a dierent banned substance

then, those test results will be considered another oense, and the student-athlete will

follow all of the sancon guidelines for the second or third oense, as applicable.

Sancon Guidelines for Violaon(s) of APSU Drug Tesng Policy: The Director of Athlecs

and/or Head Coach (with the approval of the Director of Athlecs) has the right to apply

addional sancons upon a student-athlete who tests posive for a banned substance above

those sancons listed below.

Tampering, manipulaon or adulteraon of sample will be considered a breach of tesng

protocol: Any student-athlete who has been found to have tampered, manipulated or

adulterated their sample will be considered in breach of the APSU tesng protocol. This

situaon will be considered two separate violaons (1 violaon for a posive drug screen and 1

violaon for the aempt at manipulaon) and therefore the student-athlete will follow all of

the sancon guidelines for the second or third oense as applicable.

Sancons for Non-Performance Enhancing Oenses:

First Posive Test:

1. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) will begin the nocaon process as outlined

above.

2. The student-athlete will be required to nofy his/her parent(s) (legal guardian,

spouse). The parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse) will be required to call the Assistant

AD- Student Welfare/designee within 48 hours of student-athlete nocaon. If the

parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse) does not call the Assistant AD- Student Welfare in

48 hours, the Assistant AD-Student Welfare will call the parent(s) (legal guardian,

spouse) to advise them of the student-athlete’s posive drug test

3. The student-athlete will be subject to punishments outlined in team, APSU Athlecs

Department, and University policies (i.e. suspensions from compeon, games, or

pracces, etc.) and the student may elect to enroll OR at their coach’s discreon be

enrolled in the AOD educaon sessions and complete the program outlined below.

The student-athlete must produce a negave drug test by the end of the sessions.

4. The student-athlete will undergo follow up tesng as deemed necessary.

5. Any suspensions from compeon, games or pracces, will be at the discreon of

the student-athlete’s head coach and/or the Director of Athlecs. Suspension from

athlec contests/pracces does not relieve the student-athlete from any other

responsibility as a team member, including but not limited to aendance at all

pracces or other team acvies.

Second Posive Test:

1. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) will begin the nocaon process as outlined

above

Appendix A

2. The student-athlete will be required to nofy his/her parent(s) (legal guardian,

spouse). The parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse) will be required to call the Assistant

AD-Student Welfare (or designee) within 48 hours of student-athlete nocaon. If

the parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse) does not call the Assistant AD-Student Welfare

(or designee) in 48 hours, the Assistant AD-Student Welfare (or designee) will call

the parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse) to advise them of the student-athlete’s

posive drug test

3. The student-athlete will be enrolled in educaon sessions and must complete the

program outlined below. The student-athlete must produce a negave drug test by

the end of the sessions.

4. The student-athlete will undergo follow up tesng as deemed necessary.

5. The student-athlete will be suspended for 1 game or 10% of the NCAA maximum

number of allowable championship segment contests in which the student-athlete is

eligible to parcipate (fracons rounded down), at the discreon of the Director of

Athlecs. The suspension will begin with the next contest aer nocaon of the

posive and the appeal meframe has expired. The suspension will include post

season compeon, but does not include scrimmages, non-tradional season

compeons, alumni games or exhibion games/contests. The suspension will carry

over to the following season if necessary. Suspension from athlec contests does

not relieve the student-athlete from any other responsibility as a team member,

including but not limited to aendance at all pracces or other team acvies.

Third Posive Test:

1. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) will begin the nocaon process as outlined

above.

2. The Assistant AD-Student Welfare (or designee), Athlec Director (or designee) and

the Head Coach, in the presence of the student-athlete will engage in a conference

call to the student-athlete’s parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse)

3. The student-athlete will be enrolled in educaon sessions and must complete the

program outlined below. The student-athlete must produce a negave drug test by

the end of the sessions.

4. The student-athlete will undergo follow up tesng as deemed necessary

5. The student-athlete will be suspended for 5 games or 50% of the NCAA maximum

number of allowable championship segment contests in which the student-athlete is

eligible to parcipate (fracons rounded down), whichever number is greater, which

will carry over to the following season if necessary. The suspension will begin with

the next contest aer nocaon of the posive and the appeal meframe has

expired. The suspension will include post season compeon, but does not include

scrimmages, non-tradional season compeons, alumni games or exhibion

games/contests. Suspension from athlec contests does not relieve the student-

athlete from any other responsibility as a team member, including but not limited to

aendance at all pracces or other team acvies.

Fourth Posive Test:

Appendix A

1. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) will begin the nocaon process as outlined

above

2. The Assistant AD-Student Welfare (or designee), Athlec Director (or designee) and

the Head Coach, in the presence of the student-athlete will engage in a conference

call to the student-athlete’s parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse)

3. The student-athlete will be immediately dismissed from all APSU athlec teams. A

recommendaon for cancellaon and non-renewal of athlecs scholarship at the

earliest possible moment consistent with University, Conference and NCAA rules

Appendix A

Sancons for Performance Enhancing Oenses:

** An immediate compeon suspension will be enforced for any student-athlete who tests

posive for a performance enhancing drug. Prior to returning to athlec compeon, the

student-athlete must produce a negave drug test. The me that it takes to clear the

student-athlete’s system of the performance enhancing drug may be used to sasfy game

suspensions if the oense occurs during the playing season. If the oense occurs outside of

the student-athlete’s playing season and a negave drug test is produced prior to the next

compeve season, the sancons will be assessed during the student-athlete’s next playing

season. **

First Posive Test:

1. The Assistant AD-HHP (or designee) will begin the nocaon process as outlined

above

2. The Assistant AD-Student Welfare (or designee), Athlec Director (or designee) and

the Head Coach, in the presence of the student-athlete will engage in a conference

call to the student-athlete’s parent(s) (legal guardian, spouse)

3. The student-athlete will be subject to punishments outlined in team, APSU Athlecs Department,

and University policies (i.e. suspensions from compeon, games, or pracces, etc.) and the student

may elect to enroll OR at their coach’s discreon be enrolled in the AOD educaon sessions and must

complete the program outlined below. The student-athlete must produce a negave drug

test by the end of the sessions.

4. The student-athlete will undergo follow up tesng as deemed necessary

5. The student-athlete will be suspended for 3 games or 30% of the NCAA maximum