The following policy describes the standards for the Chapin Softball program:
I. PLAYER COMMITMENT TO THE TEAM
All players selected to play for the Chapin Softball team must realize their commitment to the TEAM. This commitment is kept by following Chapin Softball team policy, giving MAXIMUM effort at all practices and games and SUPPORTING their teammates. It is crucial to realize that not all players will receive the same amount of playing time and that being a member of the team in no way guarantees playing time. Each player has been selected to the team to fulfill a certain role for the team. Whether the role is that of a starter, a specialist, or a practice player, it is expected that each player will work to carry out her role with maximum effort.
II. PRACTICE AND GAMES
All players are expected to attend EVERY practice. Absence from practice must be reported to the coach before practice. Absences will be excused at the discretion of the coach, but you will be expected to make up the missed practice time with various responsibilities (push-ups, sprints, field drags, etc. etc.). Unexcused absences will result in disciplinary action. Practices will always begin on time. Penalty for tardiness will be assessed at the discretion of the coach. All players are expected to be on the field at the scheduled practice time. The following is the general practice format for the season:
Monday-Friday 2:45pm-5:30pm(Class 2:30-3:55)
Saturday 10:00am-12:00pm
Single games will be played on Tuesday and Friday evenings and Saturday mornings. Tournament games will be played on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Players are expected to attend every game. ALL players are expected to commit to playing FULL games upon arrival to the field for game days. If you cannot commit to a full game, you will not dress out for the game. If you dress out and leave before a game concludes and/or the post game debriefing is finished, you will be subject to a suspension for the following game. ALL players are also expected to RIDE TO and FROM the game, WITH THE TEAM, for ALL road games.
III. COMMUNICATION
Players are expected to support (verbal as well as nonverbal) every member of the softball program. If a player is in a disagreement with a teammate or coach it is her responsibility to communicate with her/him and work to resolve the issue at an appropriate time. Disagreements are not to interfere with maximum effort!! Softball is a team game and gossip and cliques will not be tolerated.
IV. ELIGIBILTIY
Players must be enrolled as a full time students and meet the age, grade, and resident requirements set forth by the UIL. The policy requires that athletes pass all classes with a minimum grade average of 70 or above. All athletes must have a completed physical examination form, parent consent and be covered by insurance before she is eligible to practice. Players must be in school the day of a contest in order to be eligible to compete that day.
V. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL
The sale, distribution, transportation, use of, or possession of alcohol or any type of medication considered to be illegal or for which there is no valid prescription, by any student participating in extracurricular activities sponsored by the E.P.I.S.D. will result in an immediate removal from the team. It is also expected that all young ladies involved with the Chapin Softball program refrain from any of these unbecoming behaviors when not specifically on school sponsored activities.
VI. DRESS CODE
All players are expected to abide by the dress code of Chapin High School during school hours. During softball class and practice, players are to wear appropriate athletic attire. Practice uniforms are to be either Navy Blue, Columbia Blue, White, Black, or Gray.
VII. THIEVERY AND VANDALISM
Any act of thievery or vandalism by any athlete will result in suspension from softball for the remainder of the season.
VIII. EQUIPMENT
All players are responsible for all equipment and uniforms issued by the Chapin High School Athletic Department. The athlete must pay for loss or destruction of any equipment or uniform by the completion of the season.
IX. EXPECTED GENERAL CONDUCT
Student athletes are under the same rules of enforcement as set forth in the E.P.I.S.D. Student Code of Conduct and Chapin High School. Consequences for violation of said rules will result in loss of playing time, suspension, removal from the team, or other possible disciplinary action.
X. PARENT CODE OF CONDUCT
If your daughter is unhappy or down hearted about her progress, encourage her to talk to the coaches about it first. As a parent, please do not interfere unless it is the last resort. If your daughter is still dissatisfied after talking to the coaches, then we will be happy to confer with you at a pre-arranged school conference(not before or after a game).
Please do not criticize the coaches, the program, or your daughter’s abilities at home. Criticizing the coaches and program completely undermines your daughter’s ability to improve-without respect little progress can be achieved. Above all, please be positive with your daughter.
If your daughter is sick, please be sure that the coaching staff is notified that she will miss practice or a game. Unexcused absences will result in the loss of playing time or suspension from the team.
Please avoid gossip among yourselves. This creates dissension among the parents and our team. Be interested in the performance of the team and not just your daughter. We are trying to create the best possible climate for girl’s softball and make this an overall rewarding experience for everyone.
Show RESPECT to the opponents of your daughter.
Realize the officials are human and will make mistakes, but their decision must be respected. Be committed to the promotion of fair play, sportsmanship, and respect for authority.