Student-Athlete Manual LAST UPDATED OCTOBER 12, 2023
Contents MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SPORTS AND RECREATION...................................... 5 ELIGIBILITY AND COMPLIANCE................................................................................................................... 6 Academic Eligibility...................................................................................................................................................6 Academic Eligibility – Important Warning............................................................................................................. 7 Eligibility Years........................................................................................................................................................... 7 Registration - Athlete Form..................................................................................................................................... 7 How to complete the Athlete Form........................................................................................................................8 U SPORTS Athletes – U SPORTS Eligibility and Consent Verification................................................................8 Minimum Academic Requirements.........................................................................................................................9 Disqualification as a Student-Athlete....................................................................................................................9 Student-Athlete Appeal Process.............................................................................................................................9 FINANCIAL...................................................................................................................................................... 9 Athletic Financial Awards.........................................................................................................................................9 Black or Indigenous Heritage Bursary (BIHS)......................................................................................................10 Academic Scholarships, Bursaries and Financial Support..................................................................................10 Athlete Tuition Relief..............................................................................................................................................10 Special Funding........................................................................................................................................................ 11 Student-Athlete Fees.............................................................................................................................................. 11 ACADEMIC SERVICES AND SUPPORT........................................................................................................11 Study Hall for First & Second Year Student-Athletes ....................................................................................... 11 Tutoring Support.....................................................................................................................................................12 Academic Conflicts..................................................................................................................................................12 Academic Accommodations ..................................................................................................................................12 ATHLETE HEALTH AND WELLNESS.............................................................................................................13 Personal Counselling Services...............................................................................................................................13 Sexual Violence .......................................................................................................................................................13 Concussions And Post-Concussion Protocol.......................................................................................................14 Rowan’s Law................................................................................................................................................................14 CCES Drug Education Webinar.............................................................................................................................. 15
Therapeutic Use Exemptions................................................................................................................................. 15 What is a TUE?...........................................................................................................................................................15 Who should apply for a TUE?..................................................................................................................................16 Under what circumstances will a TUE application be approved?.....................................................................16 How do I apply for a TUE?........................................................................................................................................16 What is a retroactive TUE?.......................................................................................................................................16 How long is my TUE valid?.......................................................................................................................................17 What should I do if my competition level changes?...........................................................................................17 Brock Sports Medicine (BSM)................................................................................................................................. 17 How to Book an Appointment to see the Doctor or Athletic Therapist..........................................................17 Cancellation Policy....................................................................................................................................................18 Varsity Trainer’s Room (VTR)...................................................................................................................................18 Brock Sports Performance (BSP)...........................................................................................................................19 Expectations of Student-Athletes within the BSP ............................................................................................ 20 Sexual Violence....................................................................................................................................................... 20 Out-Of-Country Medical Coverage..................................................................................................................... 20 CODE OF CONDUCT AND POLICIES.......................................................................................................... 20 Brock University Student Code of Conduct........................................................................................................ 20 OUA Code of Conduct ............................................................................................................................................21 U SPORTS Code of Conduct...................................................................................................................................21 Harassment ............................................................................................................................................................21 Hazing & Team Orientations .................................................................................................................................21 Alcohol, Cannabis, Vaping/Smoking & Chewing Policy ................................................................................... 23 Alcohol Code............................................................................................................................................................. 23 Cannabis .................................................................................................................................................................... 23 Vaping/Smoking & Chewing................................................................................................................................... 23 Social Media Usage - Individual and Team ......................................................................................................... 23 Team Social Media ................................................................................................................................................... 24 Travel Policy.............................................................................................................................................................25 Accommodations For Away Competitions.......................................................................................................... 25 Parking Overnight When Traveling........................................................................................................................ 26 Student-Athlete Leadership Council .................................................................................................................. 26 Intramural Participation ........................................................................................................................................27
LAND ACKNOWELDGEMENT We acknowledge that the land with which Brock University sports and recreation facilities was built upon is on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom still continue to live and work here today. This land continues to provide Brock Badgers varsity student athletes, coaches and administrators the opportunity to compete, play, train, coach and educate. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum agreement. Today, this gathering place is home to many First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples and acknowledging reminds us that our of use of this land, that allows us to enhance the student-athlete experience, is directly related to the resources and friendship of Indigenous people.
Message from the Athletic Director Brock Badgers Student-Athletes Welcome to the 2023-24 Season! As athletes, you all play such a vital role in the success of our programs. Brock Sports prides itself on providing a holistic student-athlete experience that supports you beyond your athletic achievements, and extends to your academic excellence, leadership development and opportunity to give back to our community and engage. These are key components to your development as our future leaders and serve as the four pillars of our department in creating Badger pride. Last season, a year of renewal, after an unprecedented year, marked some remarkable milestones including the opening of Canada Games Park, a new home for Brock Badgers hockey! We continue to compete on the national stage and lead and engage with community partners. For 2023-24, we are excited to see the OUA Swimming and OUA Figure Skating championships on our campus this season, with a continuous influx of even more students attending Brock! We are also starting to plan celebrations for the University’s 60th Anniversary in 2024-25. Through this guide, we continue to incorporate critical information and actionable processes to help ensure you succeed as a Brock Badger. Our policies are in place to protect both our studentathletes and our coaching staff. Should you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to stop in our offices to speak to me or any one of our varsity staff. Good luck to all of you this season! Go Badgers!
Melissa Krist Executive Director, Brock Sports & Recreation
Eligibility and Compliance Academic Eligibility The following eligibility regulations apply to ALL student-athletes at Brock University. A student-athlete is declared a full-time student during the current academic year (September - April). Full-time status at Brock, as of September, means enrollment in a degree granting program and a minimum of three (3) credits (1.5 credits must be taken in each of the Fall and Winter terms). Returning student-athletes must have completed three (3) credits in the previous year to be eligible to compete in the current year (certain sports only). 1. A student-athlete becomes immediately ineligible for any competition by: A. Dropping from full-time status to less than three (3) credits at any time during the academic year. A. Falling below the minimum requirement of 1.5 credits in any given term.
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Academic Eligibility – Important Warning Should a student-athlete drop a course, which places them below the minimum required, a course must be added at the same time to retain their full-time eligibility status. Should a student-athlete participate in any contest while ineligible, the department will be required to report that it has used ineligible student-athletes, and the league will apply the appropriate penalties and fines (i.e. loss of points gained, forfeiture of game, etc.). CHAMPIONSHIP BANNERS CAN BE REVOKED WHEN IT IS DETERMINED A STUDENT-ATHLETE COMPETED WHILE INELIGIBLE. Loss of academic eligibility can only be rectified by successful completion of three (3) credits during a subsequent calendar year. During this time period, the student-athlete is not allowed to compete. Sitting out or not attending an institution for one year or more does not restore one’s academic eligibility. Academic eligibility, once lost, can only be regained by completing three (3) credits in the following academic year.
Eligibility Years Student-athletes who take part in any of the U SPORTS aligned sports (Basketball, Cross Country, Curling, Hockey, Women’s Rugby, Soccer, Swimming, Track and Field, Volleyball and Wrestling) or CURC (Rowing) are afforded a maximum of five (5) years of eligibility to compete. U SPORTS regulations for each sport and competition thresholds vary from sport to sport. Student-athletes are encouraged to review the rules which may impact their playing ability. U SPORTS Eligibility Rules 40.10.1-40.10.6 can be found online at: https://USPORTS.ca/hq/by-laws-policies-procedures Student-athletes concerned about their eligibility status can contact Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance, to review and confirm their eligibility status and remaining years.
5 YEARS - MAXIMUM » Basketball » Cross Country » Curling » Hockey » Women’s Rugby » Soccer » Swimming » Track & Field » Volleyball » Wrestling » Rowing (CURC) OUA, CUFLA and OUS affiliated sports generally have an unlimited number of eligibility years. However, studentathletes must be registered as full-time and in a degree granting program.
Registration - Athlete Form Student-athletes are required to fill out an “Athlete Form” before trying out for ANY team. This form is available on-line for all students registered at Brock University through the Brock University Portal. Once completed, student-athletes will receive ongoing notifications regarding their eligibility for their chosen sport(s). Student-athletes who are under the age of 19 years must complete the form, print it and have their legal guardian/parent sign it. Once signed, these forms must be returned a minimum of seven (7) days prior to tryouts to determine eligibility. Forms can be returned electronically to tstang@brocku.ca.
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How to complete the Athlete Form Please complete the following steps: 1. Log onto your my.brocku.ca portal 2. Click on the Applicant & Student Self Serve tab on the top left
3. Scroll to the bottom and click on the Athlete Form tab on the left
If you are under the age of 19, you need a parent or guardian to sign off as well. Just use your phone camera or scanner to send the completed, signed copy to tstang@brocku.ca
U SPORTS Athletes – U SPORTS Eligibility and Consent Verification Student-athletes who compete within U SPORTS sanctioned sports must additionally register in the U SPORTS athlete’s portal, and annually update their consent to participate. This process is exceptionally quick and must be performed prior to the start of regular season competitions. To start the process of completing your U SPORTS eligibility, follow these steps:
4. Click the button marked New
Returning Athlete: 1. Go to https://USPORTScentral.ca/studentcentre 2. Confirm your personal details 3. Complete your acknowledgement of consent to participate in U SPORTS
5. Select your sport and hit the Go button
New Athletes: 1. Go to https://USPORTScentral.ca/studentcentre 2. Register for the first time. There will be a $50 one time cost (credit cards only)
The Athlete Form will appear. Please review the updated terms and check that you agree and understand the new terms. Save and Continue
6. Click Save and Continue 7.
You will now be taken to the Medical Information form. Once completed, click Submit
3. Forward your receipt with your U SPORTS ID to tstang@brocku.ca 4. Once Tim has confirmed you have been assigned to Brock, sign back in and complete the acknowledgement of consent Transfer Athlete: 1. Email Tim your U SPORTS ID to tstang@brocku.ca 2. Once Tim confirms your transfer to Brock, sign into https://USPORTScentral.ca/studentcentre and complete the confirmation of details and acknowledgement of consent 8 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Minimum Academic Requirements
Student-Athlete Appeal Process
Student-athletes participating on varsity teams are required to remain in ‘good academic standing’ throughout their academic and competitive season.
In cases where students wish to appeal an administrative decision (including decisions made by coaches) relating to the operation of a Brock Sports Varsity team (including selection to a team, withdrawal from a team, discipline and selection for awards and honours), the procedures to be followed are outlined here.
Academic Standing refers to your status as a student within the university. There are three possible states: Good academic standing - when you have an overall average of 60% or more Academic Probation (AP) - when you have attempted 2 or more credits and obtained an overall average below 60%* Academic Suspension – when you have attempted 3 or more credits since being placed on Academic Probation and do not attain the minimum academic performance requirements *Keep in mind that AP is a university-wide policy; specific programs have additional average requirements beyond this—make sure you know them! https://brocku.ca/academic-advising/academic-standing/
Disqualification as a Student-Athlete Disqualification happens when: 3. A student-athlete is not officially registered in the required number of credits. The eligibility processes within BrockDB make no allowance for individuals on waiting lists to get into courses, hoping to get into courses, or intending to add courses later. This individual is ineligible to participate until they are officially registered. 4. A student-athlete has not successfully completed three (3) credits in the previous academic year, and therefore, is academically ineligible. This individual must regain their academic status to be eligible to compete the following year. 5.
The participating student-athlete has dropped below the minimum number of required credits for the year or term. If a student drops below three (3) credits for the year, or one and one-half (1.5) credits for the term, the student-athlete becomes immediately ineligible and must be removed from further participation. The student-athlete is not eligible until they have officially added courses to their registration.
www.gobadgers.ca/documents/2023/2/8/Student-Athlete_ Appeal_Process.pdf It should be noted that student-athletes are also subject to the Brock University Student Code of Conduct, and all other University policies. Student-athletes are further subject to OUA/U SPORTS regulations. Where those policies are invoked, any appeals must be pursued according to the procedures set out in those policies.
Financial Athletic Financial Awards Athletic Financial Awards (AFA) are afforded to select programs within Brock Sports. The recipients of these awards are nominated by the head coach of their program. To be eligible for an athletic financial award: • Incoming first year student-athletes must hold an incoming admit average of 80% or better and appear on their sport’s eligibility certificate. • Returning student-athletes (second year and each subsequent year) must have attained a 70% overall average in coursework calculated on credits achieved in the previous academic year, from September 1st to August 31st. Additionally, nominated student-athletes must appear on their sport’s eligibility certificate. Athletic financial awards cannot exceed $5,000 and/or the maximum of tuition and fees paid during the Fall/Winter term.
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Black or Indigenous Heritage Bursary (BIHS) Up to $2,000 is available to OUA student-athletes appearing on the eligibility certificate of an OUAsanctioned sport, whose heritage is self-identified as either Black or Indigenous. The BIHS Bursary provides support to those demonstrating financial need. To be eligible for consideration: • Returning student-athletes must have achieved a minimum 65% average during the prior academic year. • New entering student-athletes require a minimum 80% admission average, or must achieve a 65% minimum average during the Winter or Spring term of their initial year. To apply: • https://brocku.ca/safa/awards-and-bursaries/oneapp/ • Application deadline: October 15 via OneApp • Application decision: November 15 Any combination of an Athletic Financial Award (AFA) and BIHS Bursary cannot exceed the student-athlete’s total tuition and fees for that academic year.
Academic Scholarships, Bursaries and Financial Support Apply to hundreds of awards and bursaries at once through the OneApp. To access the OneApp, proceed to the Brock
Student Portal at my.brocku.ca, click on Applicant & Student Self Serve
In the center of the page at the bottom there is a box dedicated to student financial aid. OneApp Open/Close Dates: • NEW Entering Students: Apply between November 1 in the year prior to your entrance, up to April 15 of the year you enter. You will need an offer and student number in order to apply. Apply early for best selection. • ALL Students (Returning and New Entrants): Apply between August 1 and October 15 in the current year for best selection. However, the app remains open until May 31. • GRADUATING Students: Apply between August 1 and April 30 for graduating awards only. You are still eligible for returning awards as above. Your OneApp will be reviewed on the following dates: • April 15 – Brock awards for entering students; • May 31 – Brock awards for returning students; • Oct 15 – General and donor bursaries for current students; • April 30 – Graduating student awards.
Athlete Tuition Relief Brock University tuition fees are assessed either on a per credit cost (those enrolled in 3.5 credits or less) or by a flat rate (4.0 credits or more). The university recognizes that student-athletes have significant time commitments which often preclude them from taking full course loads. The Athlete Tuition Relief is available to all varsity athletes enrolled in 4.0 or 4.5 credits during the Fall/Winter terms. Use the QR code or go to the gobadgers.ca website and select the Athlete Tuition Relief link located under StudentAthlete. Applications close Oct 31st, 2022 11:59 p.m., processing begins the following work week and the adjustments on student accounts occur within two (2) weeks of processing. 10 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Special Funding Varsity student-athletes selected for FISU Games participation (exclusive of FISU Championships and World Cup events) are eligible for up to $500 in special grants. Please contact your coach if this applies to you, and your coach will connect with Emily Allan, Associate Director.
Student-Athlete Fees Brock Sports charges all student-athletes mandatory fees. These mandatory fees will be automatically applied to student-athlete’s accounts. The fees are charged for team participation, use of the Brock Sports Performance Centre (if applicable) and team specific fees. Student-athletes can review these fees through their Brock Student Portal (my.brocku.ca) and are reminded to ensure fees are paid prior to any interest being added to their account. Non-Payment of fees could “lock” a studentathlete’s account, preventing them from registering in further courses, receiving marks and even graduating. The 2023-34 breakdown of fees is as follows: Participation Fee - $145 - Contributes to the team budget, athletic therapy, sports medicine, travel, accommodation, equipment, uniforms, entry fees, facility rentals, head shots, website, insurance/liability, etc. as applicable Full year Fee* - $100 - extensive travel (including exhibition), extensive use of BSM/AT services *basketball, hockey, volleyball, wrestling only Half year Fee* - moderate travel, moderate use of BSM/AT services *rowing, rugby, soccer, swimming only BSP Fee (if applicable) - $180 or $140, pending team and level of support Team-specific Fee (if applicable) - as outlined by the head coach Apparel Fee (if applicable) - as outlined by the head coach Charge dates - Team fees will be applied to the student accounts as follows: -Fall sports - approximately October 1st
Academic Services and Support Study Hall for First & Second Year Student-Athletes Mandatory study hall has been implemented for all firstyear and second-year student-athletes in select sports for the 2023-24 season. The delivery will be in-person, on campus. Study hall also includes free access to both subject-specific tutors and writing tutors. The following sports will engage in study hall: basketball, hockey, rowing, rugby, soccer, swimming, volleyball and wrestling. For more information contact Matthew Ragogna, StudentAthlete Academic Support Coordinator mragogna@brocku.ca
Learning Services (formerly A-Z Learning Services) Student-athletes can attend Learning Services Drop-In to get personalized support. Learning Services staff will work collaboratively with student-athletes on: • Essay writing • Problem solving (math and science) • General study skills (time management, exam preparation, etc.) Learning Services will also review essays and assignments with you to help you develop your ability to identify problem areas.
-Full year sports - approximately December 1st At the start of the sport season, coaches will review these fees with their respective teams.
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Additionally, Learning Services staff can show studentathletes’ ways to: • Integrate research • Organize ideas • Correct sentence and grammar errors • Edit effectively IMPORTANT: Student-athletes will need to be prepared for service; they will need to bring their class material (i.e. assignments, syllabus, books) or they will not be allowed to swipe in and get their name on the reports provided to Brock Sports. https://brocku.ca/student-life-success/learning-services/
Tutoring Support Brock Sports provides three (3) hours of complimentary tutoring support to varsity student-athletes through Learning Services. To arrange tutoring support, contact Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance at tstang@brocku.ca
Academic Conflicts Throughout the varsity season teams are required to travel for scheduled league play. Consequently, there will be occasions when attendance in, or focus on classes, tests and/or assignments may be compromised. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to ensure they maintain their academic performance. In this regard, it is also the student-athlete’s responsibility to ensure their professors/ TA’s are advised of such situations, in writing, as soon as any academic conflict is identified. To aid in clear communication between student-athletes and professors, the department has developed an Accommodation Application for Approved Student Activity form for student-athletes to fill out and submit to their respective professors in the event of a conflict (located on www.gobadgers.ca under the Student-Athlete tab). This form does not exempt the student-athlete from writing
tests, attending seminars, etc. It is designed to inform professors of conflicts and to facilitate dialogue about potential accommodations. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to inform their professors within the first two weeks of the term of any potential conflicts.
Academic Accommodations The University is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all students and will adhere to the Human Rights principles that ensure respect for dignity, individualized accommodation, inclusion and full participation. The University provides a wide range of resources to assist students, as follows: A. Accommodations for approved student activities such as athletic involvement in performances or competitions at the provincial, national and/or international level both increase the reputation of the University and enhance the experiential learning for the student. Student-athletes should submit a formal, written request with supportive documentation to their instructor(s) prior to their activity using the Accommodation Application for Approved Student Activity form. Such requests should be made during the first two weeks of any given academic term, or as soon as possible after a need for accommodation is known to exist (e.g., advancing to competition finals, posting of an examination schedule), but in no case later than the second-last week of classes in that term. The Accommodation Application for Approved Student Activity can be found on the gobadgers.ca website under Student-Athlete. B. If you require academic accommodation because of a disability or an ongoing health or mental health condition, please contact Student Accessibility Services at askSAS@brocku.ca or 905 688 5550 ext. 3240. C. If you are experiencing mental health concerns, contact the Student Wellness and Accessibility Centre. For information on wellness, coping and resiliency, visit: https://brocku.ca/and/mental-health/ 12 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
D. If you require academic accommodation because of an incapacitating medical condition, you must, as soon as practicable, inform your instructor(s) of your inability to complete your academic work. You must also submit a Brock University Student Medical Certificate (found at https://brocku.ca/ registrar/toolkit/forms ).The University may, at its discretion, request more detailed documentation in certain cases. If you are unable to write a scheduled examination due to an incapacitating medical condition, you must follow the process set out in the Faculty Handbook III: 9.4.1. E. If you require academic accommodation on religious grounds, you should make a formal, written request to your instructor(s) for alternative dates and/or means of satisfying requirements. Such requests should be made during the first two weeks of any given academic term, or as soon as possible after a need for accommodation is known to exist. Faculty Handbook III: 13.2.3 F.
If you have been affected by sexual violence, the Human Rights & Equity Office offers support, information, reasonable accommodations and resources through the Gender and Sexual Violence Intake Manager. For information on sexual violence, visit Brock’s Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy or contact the Gender and Sexual Violence Intake Manager at humanrights@brocku.ca or 905 688 5550 ext. 4387.
G. If you feel you have experienced discrimination or harassment on any of the above grounds, including racial, gender or other forms of discrimination, contact the Human Rights and Equity Office at humanrights@brocku.ca . If you are concerned about anything you are facing or experiencing at university, please reach out!
Athlete Health and Wellness Personal Counselling Services Counselling is offered as part of the ancillary fees that students pay annually. There are no restrictions to the
number of appointments. Our counsellors are all trained in Trauma Informed Practices. We aim to provide each individual with the support needed to address their concerns about their well being. Counselling is completely confidential within the limits of the law. How to seek counselling services: Book an appointment (in person or online); please call 1-833-276-2533 (1-833-BROCK33). Outside North America call 001 416 382 3257 (long distance charges may apply). This line is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Call. Chat. Anytime. Anywhere. Download the Telus Health Student Support App for 24/7 text chat or telephone support via the App Store or Google Play. Search Brock University Student Counselling Program when creating your profile to access Brock’s branded My SSP app. Same day urgent counselling is available at Harrison Hall, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Please call x3243 for an appointment. Athlete-specific counselling is offered on Tuesdays at Harrison Hall. For more information, check out the Student Wellness and Accessibility website at https://brocku.ca/health-wellness-accessibility/personalcounselling-services/
Sexual Violence Brock University is committed to promoting and maintaining a respectful work, learning and living environment for all its community members - one that is free from all forms of harassment, discrimination and bullying. This includes all forms of sexual violence. Sexual violence is a spectrum of non-consensual sexual contact and behaviour, which includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, sexual exploitation, indecent exposure, and voyeurism. Sexual violence is an attack on an individual’s bodily integrity, and can cause lasting mental, physical, and emotional damage to a victim or survivor. 13 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Brock University recognizes that sexual violence is a serious and complex issue that can adversely affect Brock community members. Brock prohibits and will not condone, tolerate, or ignore any form of sexual violence that affects the work and learning environment at the University. Brock will provide access to supports, services, and appropriate accommodation for Brock community members who are impacted by sexual violence.
Should the student-athlete or coach report ANY of the following symptoms, the student-athlete is to be safely and immediately removed from the field:
Brock community members’ conduct will be held in accordance with the Brock Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy. Any breach of this policy should be reported to the Brock University Human Rights & Equity Office.
• nausea
For information on how to approach reporting sexual violence, visit www.brocku.ca/human-rights/sexual-assault Victims and survivors will be provided confidential support, guidance, referrals, and accommodations in accordance with the Policy.
Concussions And Post-Concussion Protocol Rowan’s Law As of July 1, 2019, new rules came into effect through Rowan’s Law, to improve concussion safety in amateur competitive sport. If you are an athlete under 26 years of age, parent of an athlete under 18, coach, team trainer or official and your sport organization has advised that you need to follow the rules of Rowan’s Law, you need to complete the resource document provided and provide a signed and dated confirmation of completion of the Rowan’s Law by the end of your team selection process. A Rowan’s Law step-by-step guide has been provided to all coaches. Website Resource: https://www.ontario.ca/page/rowanslaw-concussion-safety Any student-athlete with a suspected concussion should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY. The studentathlete is not to return to the activity until they are assessed medically and cleared for further participation.
• headache • dizziness • ringing in the ears • memory loss • light sensitivity • drowsiness • depression • increasing confusion or irritability • repeated vomiting • seizure or convulsion • weakness or tingling / burning in arms or legs • deteriorating conscious state • unusual change in behavior • double vision Every student-athlete who has a possible concussion must see a Physician in the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic and follow the Return to Play and Return to Learn process. Link for the Brock Sports Medicine Concussion Protocol: https://gobadgers.ca/documents/2023/6/19/BROCK_ SPORTS_MEDICINE_CONCUSSION_PROTOCOL_V3_.pdf Please make an appointment with your lead therapist and a physician by contacting Brock Sports Medicine Clinic (email: sportsmed@brocku.ca, phone: 905-688-5550 x3791) Our Physicians, in collaboration with our lead therapists, will oversee and help you navigate the return to learn and return to play protocols. In addition, to ensure student-athletes get the required academic accommodation, please request a Brock University Student Health Services Medical Concussion Certificate, which is available from the Physicians in Student Health Services and the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic. 14 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Student-athletes can access the following two great resources surrounding concussions:
7.
www.thinkfirst.ca
If you are taking the CCES online course for the first time:
www.youtube.com/watch?v=_55YmblG9YM
1. Please follow this link: https://cces.myabsorb. com/?KeyName=USPORTS-2023#/
For more information on the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic and the Physicians, Lead Therapists and Consultants please visit: https://brocku.ca/sports-medicine/
CCES Drug Education Webinar The mandatory Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) Drug Education course is available online. All varsity student-athletes (both OUA and U SPORTS) must complete this course, as well as all varsity coaches (both Head Coaches and Assistant Coaches). This course should be completed prior to your first exhibition or league competition. For all U SPORTS varsity student-athletes (Basketball, Cross Country, Hockey, Women’s Rugby, Soccer, Swimming, Track & Field, Volleyball and Wrestling), please follow the instructions below as you must complete a tracked version of CCES Drug Education. If you are a varsity student-athlete competing in non-U SPORTS sport, please use the following link: http://cces. ca/truesportclean101untracked Once completed, please print or email a copy of your certificate to your Head Coach.
Student-Athlete and Support Personnel Instructions If you have taken the CCES online course previously: 1. Please use this link to login: http://education.cces.ca 2. Use the login information you previously created. 3. Can’t remember your username? Try your email address. 4. Use the “Forgot Password?” function to retrieve your password if you have forgotten it. 5. Contact the CCES if you have forgotten your login information. 6. Do not use the enrollment key below to create a new account.
One you have logged in, follow the appropriate steps to complete the True Sport Clean Quiz.
2. Copy-and-paste the key below into the appropriate text box and press Sign Up. 3. Enrolment Key: USPORTS-2023 4. You will be prompted to enter your name and your email address. Your email address will become your username. Enter a password that you will remember. 5. Log in with your new username and password. Go to “My Courses”. You must complete the “Profile” module before you can start the course. Return to “My Courses” to begin the course True Sport Clean Quiz. Note: If you return at a later date to start the course or to continue a partially completed course, you must log in with your unique username and password. If you use the enrollment key again you will be creating a duplicate account and will have to start your training from the beginning. If you have trouble logging in, please contact the CCES for assistance. Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport 1-613-521-3340 x3236 or 1-800-672-7775 education@cces.ca
Therapeutic Use Exemptions What is a TUE? Student-athletes, like all others, may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take medications. If the medication an athlete is required to take happens to fall under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List, a therapeutic use exemption (TUE) can give the athlete authorization to take the needed medicine. Athletes are not automatically granted authorization and must ensure they follow the appropriate process for their sport and competition level. 15 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Who should apply for a TUE?
How do I apply for a TUE?
All student-athletes who are subject to doping control must be aware of the TUE rules and requirements that apply to them. These rules and requirements will vary depending on the student-athlete and will determine when and to which organization an athlete must submit a TUE application. Talk with BSM personnel for more info. IF YOU ARE UNSURE, CHECK WITH BSM STAFF BEFORE TAKING ANY MEDICATION – THIS INCLUDES HERBAL REMEDIES.
Use the Medical Exemption Wizard to determine your medical exemption requirements, and to download the application form if required. Try the Medical Exemption Wizard Email: TUE-AUT@cces.ca Call the toll-free information line: 1-800-672-7775 Application timelines and information:
Check your requirements now
• A complete TUE application can be reviewed within 21 days of receipt of a complete application.
To check your medications to ensure they are not banned, please go to the Global Dro Website https://www. globaldro.com/Home
• The CCES will contact the athlete once a decision has been rendered on the application, or if more information has been deemed necessary.
To Check the prohibited list published by WADA on January 1, 2023 please go to https://www.wada-ama.org/en/ resources/science-medicine/prohibited-list-documents
Under what circumstances will a TUE application be approved? A TUE application will be considered by the CCES under the following circumstances: The substance or method is needed to treat an acute or chronic medical condition, such that the athlete would experience a significant impairment to health if the prohibited substance or method were to be withheld; the use of the prohibited substance or method would produce no additional enhancement of performance other than that which might be anticipated by a return to a state of normal health following the treatment of a legitimate medical condition; and there are no reasonable therapeutic alternatives or other alternatives are ineffective. Examples include: • Insulin for the treatment of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus; • Beta-2 Agonist inhaler, such as terbutaline, for the treatment of asthma; or • Methylphenidate for the treatment of ADD or ADHD.
• Costs incurred for the completion of the TUE application form or additional investigations, examinations, or imaging studies are the responsibility of the athlete. • The CCES will confirm receipt of a TUE application by email within two business days. If you do not receive a confirmation of receipt within that time frame, please contact the CCES. • Incomplete applications will be returned and will need to be resubmitted with additional information. Keep a copy of your application form and medical file for your records.
What is a retroactive TUE? Athletes competing in national events but not included in the CCES Registered Testing Pool (RTP) or the CCES National Athlete Pool (NAP) are not required to have a TUE application approved prior to using a prohibited substance. Instead, they may go through a retroactive TUE application process to validate and permit the use of prescribed medications for therapeutic reasons. The retroactive TUE application process is initiated by the CCES after an athlete goes through doping control and the sample analysis reveals the presence of a banned substance. The CCES would contact the athlete through their sport organization to determine whether or not the substance was used as part of a medical treatment plan. If so, the athlete would be asked to have their 16 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
physician complete a TUE application form and provide documentation to support their medical history. The application is submitted to the CCES for review. The TUE application provided to the CCES must include a medical file which satisfies certain conditions. If at any time an athlete is added to the CCES RTP, the CCES NAP, their International Federation’s (IF) RTP, or the athlete attends an international event, it is their responsibility to ensure that they meet all additional TUE requirements imposed by the CCES or their IF.
How long is my TUE valid? A TUE granted by the CCES is valid for the duration of the treatment as prescribed by the physician, up to a maximum of four years. It is your responsibility to know when your TUE expires and to apply for renewal before this date if necessary.
What should I do if my competition level changes?
physicians are now available in the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic 2-3 days per week. Certified athletic therapists, physiotherapists and fee-for-service consultants (chiropractors, osteopaths and pedorthists) are available in the clinic Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the varsity season. For more information on the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic and the Physicians, Lead Therapists and Consultants please visit: https://brocku.ca/sports-medicine
How to Book an Appointment to see the Doctor or Athletic Therapist Student-athletes may be asked to book an appointment with a Sports Medicine physician preferably prior to treatment with a lead therapist. In order to book an appointment: 1. Contact the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic via email: sportsmed@brocku.ca or phone (905) 688 5550 ext 3791. The administrative staff will assist in booking your appointment and confirm via email or phone.
A CCES TUE is granted in accordance with the TUE rules of the 2015 Canadian Anti-Doping Program and is valid only in Canada, unless otherwise stated in your International Federation’s anti-doping rules. If at any time you are included in your IF’s Registered Testing Pool (RTP) or compete at an international level, you must comply with their IF TUE requirements. You should contact the CCES to determine whether your CCES TUE is valid for international competition.
2. Contact the lead BSM therapist for your team and they can schedule your therapy and/or doctor’s appointment via the Brock Sports Medicine EMR software.
Regarding the information pertaining to Cannabis in sport please go to the CCES website
Student-athletes who drop in before practice cannot be assured they will be assessed and treated during this very busy time.
https://cces.ca/cannabis
Brock Sports Medicine (BSM) Mission Statement: To provide Brock University students with exceptional care and education in the prevention, assessment and treatment of sport and exercise related injuries. Student-athletes are encouraged to have their athletic injuries assessed and treated at the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic or Varsity Trainers Room (VTR). Sports Medicine
3. If a student athlete sees a doctor in Student Health Services (SHS) because the sports medicine doctor was not available, please ask the SHS doctor for a referral slip so the therapist can see the doctor’s diagnosis and suggest therapy prior to the clinic appointment.
What to bring for your physicians’ appointment: 1. All student-athletes need to bring their Ontario Health Card or international Health Card with them in order to see a BSM physician. Brock Sports Medicine Clinic, Harrison Hall: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m., ext. 3791 Sports Medicine physicians are available Monday, Wednesday and Friday at varying times during the varsity 17 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
season. Three Certified Athletic Therapists and one Sport Physiotherapist are available in the clinic during the varsity season. At least one student therapist assigned to each team will have completed the sport first responder certification, CPR, First Aid, AED and Emergency Action Plan Training. All student therapists carry the team’s medical information and emergency contact numbers for family, as well as all emergency first aid supplies (i.e. masks, gloves, Band-Aids, tape, etc.) in their kits. The clinic’s staff is dedicated to the student-athlete’s health and welfare during competition. At times an athlete may be advised not to participate for fear of future serious injury. If the University’s Sports Medicine Doctor or lead Therapist indicates that a student-athlete should not compete then the athlete is required to follow the doctor’s or therapist recommendation. Please Note: First year athletes on select teams will be required to complete a pre-season medical once selected to their team and prior to their first pre-season competition. The pre-season medical is no longer covered by OHIP and costs $100. BSM staff will review the medical information immediately and if there are any orthopedic or general health concerns, they may choose to refer the student-athlete to the sport doctor(s) for further assessment and possible referral to a specialist.
Cancellation Policy To better serve more student-athletes and meet the high demand for therapy, the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic requires 24 hours notice to cancel a scheduled therapy appointment. Students who miss appointments deny fellow students the opportunity to receive prompt care. Therefore, patients who do not follow the cancellation policy may be charged $50 for a missed physician appointment or $25 for a missed appointment with a lead therapist before receiving their next treatment. Additional missed appointments may result in suspension of therapy privileges.
Brock Sports Medicine Billing Brock Sports Medicine has launched a new bracing store in Harrison Hall and a direct billing process for all physiotherapy and massage therapy appointments for the 2023-24 season. Messaging has been provided to student-athletes on select teams via email encouraging returning athletes to remain opted into the BUSU/GSA Health Benefits plan. Returning athletes will be required to submit their billing forms by a pre-determined deadline. Once the BUSU/GSA health benefit plan is exhausted, BSM will proceed to bill the parental private health insurance plan (requesting permission prior to proceeding). Once billing is no longer an option, BSM will provide services to the student-athlete without any additional billing.
Varsity Trainer’s Room (VTR) The Varsity Trainer’s Room is located in the Walker Sports Complex on the lower level, just left of the change room entrance, and is open daily from 3:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m. (ext. 4835). It is also available during the day if teams are practicing prior to 3:00 p.m. Services include pre-practice/pre-competition taping and support techniques, hot pack applications, hydrotherapy, Game-ready and Normatec compression recovery tools as well as therapist-related stretching when required. Student-athletes who are being taped before a competition or practice must allow enough time for taping and preparation or they may be late for their practice or competition. Post-game/practice services include icing, cold whirlpool and acute injury assessment to determine if the athlete should see a Sports Medicine Physician for further evaluation. A certified Therapist will be on duty MondayFriday from 3:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m. to help service the student-athletes and to be available for any emergency situations. Please note that the VTR closes at 9:00 p.m. at the latest (depending on the evening varsity practice schedule) during weekday practices and is open for 15 minutes after every home game. 18 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Sport Nutrition Dining Hall The Badger Varsity Athlete Meal Plan is back by popular demand this season. If you purchased a 100 swipe meal plan last year (2022-2023) and have some unused swipe sessions, please know those swipe sessions will be transferred to this upcoming academic year (2023-2024). 1. New Athletes Meal Plan $1400 (+HST) for 100 swipes. Once a student swipes into the dining hall, they can have as much or as little as they want. This can be for breakfast, lunch or dinner. A dining hall tour for both staff and student-athletes can be scheduled. 2. Pay at the door rate Students or staff can pay the below amounts for a meal. As stated above, once the student enters the dining hall, it is the same all you care to enjoy structure. • Breakfast $10.75* • Lunch $14.00* • Dinner $17.25* *price subject to change 3. Regular meal plan – First Year Athletes
at 10am will be popular as student-athletes can check in for breakfast, stay and study and enjoy lunch a few hours later with 1 card swipe - 2 meals for 1 swipe! If an individual uses the 100 taps and would like to purchase more, they can purchase another 100 swipes and submit another online form. • The price for the 100 swipe plan is $1400 (+HST) • Student-athletes are able to use the Campus Dish link below to view the menus at both Decew and Lowenberger dining halls as the meals are different at each residence hall each day. https://brocku.campusdish.com/
Brock Sports Performance (BSP) Brock Sports Performance (BSP) offers expert performance coaches and quality strength and conditioning programming to our varsity student-athletes. Brock Sports Performance is comprised of four lead sports performance coaches and 50 undergraduate kinesiology student volunteer coaches.
• 5-day All Access - $5410 (subject to HST)
The BSP oversees the development of many varsity programs. These teams receive annual testing, programming, periodization and expert coaching in order to improve performance in their given sport.
• 7-day All Access - $5754 (subject to HST)
Based on the sport model, BSP services may include:
See website for reference: https://brocku.ca/dining-services/residence-meal-plans/
• Strength & conditioning workouts either in the BSP Centre or in the Rowing Centre weight room
HOW TO ACCESS THE ATHLETE MEAL PLAN:
• Testing completed by sports performance coaches and/ or interns (spot testing completed as needed)
For any first-year athletes who will be living on campus in residence, meal plans are mandatory.
Step 1: Brock Dining services has created a form for the student-athlete to complete and submit. Link to Form: https://brocku.ca/dining-services/badger-meal-plans/ Step 2: Once submitted, a representative from the Brock Card Office will respond with payment instructions. The current plan for payment is for the individual to pay at the Brock Card Office. Once payment has gone through, the 100 taps will be loaded on the student-athletes Brock Card.
• Performance coach led sessions each week • KINE 3P99/4P99 BSP student coaches assigned as load coaches for some teams • Student interns assigned to lead warmup/cooldown at as many games/practices when possible • Gym Aware Implementation with High Training Age Athletes • Program demo by sports performance lead interns
Details: 1 tap equals 1 entrance. Once you enter the dining hall, you can have as much or as little food as you desire and stay as long as you want. *Hint: Breakfast 19 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Expectations of Student-Athletes within the BSP 1. To access training sessions athletes are to always track their progress on Team Buildr via their cell phone or iPad provided, bring a water bottle and wear Brock or neutral gear (when possible); T-shirt with sleeves required to access (no cutoffs, tank tops, etc.); 2. Expectations are that the athlete will complete all sessions with their team unless otherwise communicated with sport coach and lead performance coach via email.
Sexual Violence Brock University is committed to promoting and maintaining a respectful work, learning and living environment for all its community members - one that is free from all forms of harassment, discrimination and bullying. This includes all forms of sexual violence. Sexual violence is a spectrum of non-consensual sexual contact and behaviour, which includes sexual assault, sexual harassment, stalking, sexual exploitation, indecent exposure, and voyeurism. Sexual violence is an attack on an individual’s bodily integrity, and can cause lasting mental, physical, and emotional damage to a victim or survivor. Brock University recognizes that sexual violence is a serious and complex issue that can adversely affect Brock community members. Brock prohibits and will not condone, tolerate, or ignore any form of sexual violence that affects the work and learning environment at the University. Brock will provide access to supports, services, and appropriate accommodation for Brock community members who are impacted by sexual violence. Brock community members’ conduct will be held in accordance with the Brock Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy. Any breach of this policy should be reported to the Brock University Human Rights & Equity Office. For information on how to approach reporting sexual violence, visit www.brocku.ca/human-rights/sexual-assault
Out-Of-Country Medical Coverage Please be advised that all student-athletes must have their own medical coverage for out-of-country travel. Should a student-athlete not have this insurance, or is not covered through another policy, they can purchase insurance through BUSU. More information regarding the Brock BUSU undergraduate Health and Dental plans: https://www.studentvip.ca/ Graduate students can find information at: https://brocku. ca/graduate-students-association/services/gsa/healthand-dental-plan/
Code of Conduct and Policies Brock University Student Code of Conduct Brock Sports has a zero-tolerance policy for actions that reflect poorly on the ideals of participation in athletic endeavor. As representatives of your team, your coaches, your department, and the university, you are expected to behave in a manner that reflects a positive image of Brock student-athletes. You are ambassadors for all studentathletes, all programs, and the institution. While misconduct can lead to sanctions from the University Student Conduct Council, student-athletes will also be subject to sanctions from Brock Sports. Generally, sanctions for non-academic misconduct will pertain to playing privileges and membership on Brock Sports teams. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to ensure that they are familiar with the University Code of Conduct. https://brocku.ca/student-life/wp-content/uploads/ sites/34/Student-Code-of-Conduct.pdf
Victims and survivors will be provided confidential support, guidance, referrals, and accommodations in accordance with the Policy. 20 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
OUA Code of Conduct TThe OUA Governance policy outlines the norms of behaviour and Conduct and Ethics for all OUA stakeholders, athletes, coaches, officials and administrators. All OUA members are bound by these policies in our participation in OUA sport.
train and compete in an environment that respects the dignity and worth of members of the Brock community. Any form of harassment will not be tolerated, and will be dealt with as applicable. See Brock University’s Respectful Work and Learning Environment Policy: https://brocku.ca/policies/
The OUA Governance policy can be found here: https://oua.ca/about/governance/oua_governance_policies
U SPORTS Code of Conduct The U SPORTS Governance policy 90.60 to 90.70 outlines the code of conduct, code of ethics and relief from policies for all U SPORTS stakeholders including athletes, coaches, officials and administrators. U SPORTS Policy 90.60 can be found here: https://usports.ca/hq/by-laws-policies-procedures
Harassment Harassment is defined as a course of vexatious comments or conduct that is known or ought reasonably to be known to be unwelcome. Single acts of sufficient severity may also constitute harassment. This definition includes Workplace Harassment under the Occupational Health and Safety Act. Harassment may include: verbal, written (including electronic, digital communications whether by email, text messages, posting on internet sites or otherwise), and/or actual or threatened physical actions directed at an individual or group by another individual or group who know(s) or reasonably ought to know that the behaviour is unwanted. Brock University and Brock Sports is committed to building and maintaining a diverse and inclusive community where our students, staff, volunteers and visitors can work, learn,
Hazing & Team Orientations Brock University has established standards of behaviour to promote and maintain respect for the rights, responsibilities, and well-being of all members of our community and prohibits activities that reasonably can be construed as hazing for the purpose of initiation, admission into, or as a condition for continued membership in a group, team or student organization both on and off university premises. As such, Brock Sports & Recreation has a zero tolerance for hazing activities. Definition of Hazing: Any act committed against someone joining or becoming a member or maintaining membership in any organization that is humiliating, intimidating or demeaning, or endangers the health and safety of the person. Hazing includes active or passive participation in such acts and occurs regardless of the willingness to participate in the activities. Hazing is voluntary or involuntary. Hazing creates an environment/climate in which dignity and respect are absent. Student-athletes and coaches need to be aware there is always a power imbalance on teams. 21 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Definition of Power Imbalance:
A welcoming environment includes:
A power imbalance is expressed when one partner (or a group of partners) is able to dominate decision-making or otherwise assert power in ways that disadvantage other partners. There is always a perceived power imbalance between first year/new team members and seniors/ veterans on a team.
• Raising all team mates up
Coaches are responsible for knowing about ALL team building activities, whether or not they or their leadership group organize the activities. Alcohol is strictly prohibited for team building activities. Three Types of Hazing 1. Subtle Hazing: Behaviours that emphasize a power imbalance between new members and veterans of the group or team. They are often described (mistakenly) as “harmless.” Most often they involve ridicule, embarrassment and humiliation, and could even be considered as a form of harassment. Examples: new team members carrying equipment, new team members cleaning, new team members going to the front seats of the bus, and other tasks deemed for new team members only. These tasks are endured for the sake of acceptance to the team 1. 2. Harassment Hazing: Behaviors that cause emotional anguish or physical discomfort that puts unnecessary stress upon the victims2. Examples: Threatening if certain acts are not completed, a punishment will occur; verbal abuse. 3. Violent Hazing: Behaviours that have the potential to cause physical and/or emotional harm3. Examples: 4. Paddling, sexual violence, forced alcohol use. Source 1-3 - NCAA Policy on Hazing, https://ncaaorg.s3.amazonaws.com/ssi/other/SSI_ hazingpreventionhandbook.pdf TRADITIONS: The truth about tradition is that when they are positive during a student-athlete’s first year, they create one of the most positive relationships during a university athletic career - one that is made through mutual respect with teammates and coaches, and those relationships last a lifetime!
• Cheering loudly • Respecting all of our differences – gender, sexual identity, race, culture and abilities • Being free to call out your teammates respectfully without reprimand when they are doing harm (whether intentionally or not) • Owning up to our mistakes • A space that is free from harassment, ridicule, intimidation • Everyone in team events that builds positive relationships • Being kind Team Orientations - Building New Team Traditions: Teams are encouraged to create positive team building experiences. What can your team do to welcome new team members? • Establish mentors for new student-athletes. • Adopt an elementary class together. • Design and complete a community service project during the preseason. • Attend a team-building ropes course challenge (on Brock campus) to build unity among new and veteran players. • Establish a ceremonial presentation of competition uniforms to new athletes before the first competition. • Hold a “Meet the Parents and Families of New Athletes Day” before the first competition. • Establish a tradition of recognizing each new studentathlete’s birthday with a pizza party. • Have veterans call new team members before they arrive on campus as a welcoming gesture. • Have holiday-time phone calls from the captain to all new first-year athletes. • Take the team hiking, canoeing or bowling. • Compete with each other in other team sports, such as basketball, hockey and swimming, splitting the team equally between new members and returning members. 22 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
• Visit the children’s ward in a hospital, visit a nursing home or a homeless shelter. • Go to a Badgers game with your team. • Avoid all use of alcohol. Sanctions: Brock Sports & Recreation will investigate teams and individuals engaging in hazing and set sanctions as required. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to, individual suspensions from competition for one or more competitions, team suspensions for one or more competitions, suspension of individuals or teams from competition for one competitive season or cancellation of the program. Student-athletes, coaches and staff have the responsibility to report any known hazing activities to the Executive Director.
Alcohol, Cannabis, Vaping/Smoking & Chewing Policy Alcohol Code The standard for Brock Sports for all student-athletes are as follows: • Student-athletes are to abide by the legal Ontario drinking age – 19 years of age. • No alcohol shall be consumed by student-athletes 36 hours prior to the competition start time for all HOME games. • No alcohol shall be consumed at AWAY events including 36 hours prior to the competition start time and continues to be prohibited for the entire trip, to the time the team arrives back on campus. • No alcohol shall be consumed in any Brock University facility, including but not limited to team rooms, labs, and classrooms. Alcohol shall never be brought onto a bus/van. • No alcohol is to be served for student athlete team specific functions such as orientations and team building events.
Note: Social norms and special circumstances may apply. These special circumstances need permission prior to the event from the Associate Director/Executive Director. See travel and accommodation policies for further restrictions regarding alcohol and alcohol consumption. All other restrictions can be found under Brock University alcohol policy at https://brocku.ca/policies/
Cannabis Cannabis is strictly prohibited for all student-athletes during the competitive season (from the start of training camp to the last competition day).
Vaping/Smoking & Chewing Vaping, smoking and chewing is prohibited at all practices and competitive events, including in buses, hotel rooms, when on the sidelines or in front of fans, etc. https://brocku.ca/policies/
Social Media Usage - Individual and Team The use of new technologies comes with both rights and responsibilities. Blogs, digital media and social networks, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok, offer new and exciting opportunities for Brock University faculty, staff and students to share knowledge, express creativity and connect with people who have common interests. Student-athletes and staff are reminded that images, postings, dialogues and information about themselves or others posted on the internet are public information. When participating in social media, it is important to always be upfront and honest about who you are and what you represent, to use common sense before you post or comment, and to respect the values and etiquette of communities you join. Examples of inappropriate and offensive social media behaviour that falls under Brock Sports expectations of behaviour for student-athletes, coaches and staff include, but are not limited to: photos, videos, comments or posters showing the personal use of alcohol, drugs, and tobacco; 23 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
photos, videos, comments that are of a sexual nature. This includes links to websites of pornographic nature, and other inappropriate material;
the Brock Badgers brand or the specific team, they will need to contact Brock Sports to provide the department administration rights.
pictures, videos, comments or posters that condone drug-related activity. This includes but is not limited to images that portray the personal use of drugs and drug paraphernalia;
All new and existing team-managed social media accounts are considered the property of Brock University and Brock Sports must maintain administrative access to all accounts.
content that is unsportsmanlike, derogatory, demeaning, or threatening toward any other individual or entity (such as derogatory comments regarding another institution, taunting comments aimed at a student-athlete, coach or team at another institution and derogatory comments against race, culture, and/or gender); information that is sensitive or personal in nature or is proprietary to Brock Sports or the university which is not public information (future schedules, student-athlete injuries, eligibility status, travel plans and itineraries). For your own safety, please keep your security setting up to date so that only your friends can view your profile and information. While University officials do not actively monitor staff and student social media sites, content that is brought to the attention of the University that describes or documents behaviour that reasonably suggests breach of University policy (i.e. The Student Code of Conduct, The Respectful Work and Learning Environment Policy, Academic Integrity Policy, Acceptable Use Policy, etc.) may be subject to further investigation. The University reserves the right to appropriately respond to these incidents, which may include disciplinary action. The Brock Media Relations Policy can be found at: https://brocku.ca/policies/
Team Social Media If a coach or student-athlete initiates, creates, or manages a team account on any social media platform with the purpose of promotion and/or dissemination of information for the Brock Sports program, and in doing so uses the brand, likeness, and/or name of the University,
Media Guidelines Suggestions for Student-Athletes Regarding Media Relations: Brock University and the Brock Badgers enjoy a strong partnership with the media and co-operating with reporters is an important part of being a student-athlete. In the past few years, many Badgers teams and studentathletes have generated media coverage with stories of overall success and human-interest profiles. Local, regional and national media have taken notice of what the Badgers and their fans have been doing. Here are some pointers for dealing with members of the media: Be polite to members of the media. You might be asked a question that seems odd or the reporter might not know much about your sport, but it’s important to be respectful. Use the opportunity to educate the interviewer about you as a student-athlete and your sport. Studentathletes who are courteous and are known to be quotable are the ones reporters come back to. Avoid “yes” or “no” answers. Reporters are looking for complete quotes, so try to answer questions in full sentences. For example, if a reporter says, “you played great today, didn’t you?” Rather than answering with a simple “yes, thanks”, a better answer would be “I feel like I played well, but it was a good team effort…etc.” Nothing is off the record. If you’re talking to a reporter, assume that anything you say could potentially end up in the newspaper or on the radio. If you’re asked a question that you don’t want to answer, don’t feel comfortable answering or know you shouldn’t answer, don’t be afraid to tell the reporter “no comment”, or “I’m not able to answer that question for you”. If you feel as though a reporter is harassing you or attempting to get you to say something you’re not comfortable saying, don’t be afraid to direct them to Communications Officer Stephen Leithwood at 905-688-5550 x4752 or Brock University Communications 24 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
& Media Relations Manager, Content and Communications Maryanne St. Denis at ext. 4420 or 905-246-0256 and they will handle the situation. Be on time for an interview. Reporters sometimes show up late for interviews, but you should be there early. Deadlines are often tight and making a member of the media wait an extra 10 minutes could mean the difference between a story about Brock and your team being printed or not. Be honest, but positive. Honesty is crucial when talking to the media, but talking negatively about competition officials, opponents, or other teammates doesn’t serve any purpose. Give your teammates and opponents credit where credit is due. STAY CALM AND HAVE FUN. Being interviewed by the media is a good opportunity to raise your profile as a student-athlete, and your team’s profile. If you have any questions concerning the media, contact Stephen Leithwood at x4752 or Maryanne St. Denis at x4420.
Travel Policy 1. It is expected that all student-athletes travel with their team to and from all athletic competition in the designated vehicles provided through Brock Sports. 2. Single day travel (no overnight) - Coaches should inform student-athletes and support staff of the departure time AND the proposed return time, as well as pick-up location. Student-athletes should be aware of any penalties associated with not adhering to the established times. 3. Overnight trip – Prior to departure, coaches should provide an itinerary to student-athletes and support staff which includes the name of the accommodation, phone number, departure time, expected return time, mealtimes, curfew, etc. 4. Student-athletes may not drive themselves by their own personal vehicle unless the coach provides permission. Student-athletes who have received permission to make alternate travel arrangements will be asked to provide details of their travel plans in advance. If such permission is given, the studentathlete must complete and submit a 2023 Varsity Travel Release Form (PDF) - Brock University Athletics (gobadgers.ca) to their Head Coach, absolving the university of any responsibility during such travel. In
addition, no expense reimbursement shall be provided for this travel. Should permission be given to travel by personal car, no other team member shall be allowed to accompany the student-athlete. 5. Student-athletes will return with the team in the designated vehicles provided through Brock Sports unless permission is received from the coach (as outlined on the Travel Itinerary Sheet). 6. Alcoholic beverages are not to be carried or consumed in any vehicle used for Brock business purposes. 7.
If a student-athlete goes home after competition, the Travel Itinerary form must indicate this plan, after permission is granted by the Head Coach. The studentathlete must complete and submit a 2023 Varsity Travel Release Form (PDF) - Brock University Athletics (gobadgers.ca) to their Head Coach.
Accommodations For Away Competitions 1. All student-athletes must stay in the accommodations arranged by Brock Sports. It is permissible for studentathletes to stay overnight at their home if they have their coaches’ prior consent. If this occurs, the Travel Itinerary form must indicate this plan. 2. Student-athletes should examine their assigned rooms for any items of disrepair and report any problems to the hotel front desk to ensure such problems are not attributed to their occupancy. 3. Student-athletes are personally responsible for any charges to the room other than the cost of the room rental. 4. Student-athletes are personally responsible for any damage to the room or any items reported missing from the room. 5. Alcoholic beverages are not permitted in the accommodations assigned or booked for Brock business purposes. 6. Student-athletes are considered representatives of Brock University and as such, are expected to conduct themselves, both on and off campus, in a responsible manner that brings respect to the University and its athletic teams. 7.
Any charges due to misconduct will be charged to the student-athletes’ direct account. 25 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Parking Overnight When Traveling Student-athletes must visit Parking Services prior to their trip to make overnight parking arrangements as outlined below. Student-athletes with a valid Brock parking permit must visit Parking Services during business hours before departure and will receive a temporary hang tag, at no cost, for the duration of the time they are away for their sport. Student-athletes parking overnight are asked to park on the west side of Zone 3 (Lot S) closest to the daycare as this is the designated overnight parking area. Student-athletes that do not have a valid Brock parking permit and need to park on campus for away games must also visit Parking Services in advance of their departure for a Zone 3 (Lot S) temporary hang tag for the duration of the time they are away for their sport. It is the responsibility of the student-athlete to pay the fee of $12 per night for these hang tags. Student-athletes that do not have parking permits may wish to carpool to campus with a permit holder (who has made prior arrangements as noted above) in order to save that charge. In all cases, if prior arrangements have not been made and tickets are issued for unauthorized overnight parking, they cannot be voided and will need to either be paid or appealed by the student-athlete.
Student-Athlete Leadership Council The Student-Athlete Leadership Council (SALC) is comprised of varsity Brock University student-athletes and is designed to both represent the interests of fellow student-athletes and provide feedback to Brock Sports on their policy creation and overall operations that affect the lives of Brock student-athletes. Each varsity team will have (1) representative for a total membership of 35 student-athletes annually. Each appointed member will serve a one-year term, from May 1 – April 30 and must be approved by the SALC Advisors. Members may serve a maximum of three terms, either concurrently or discontinuously. If a team intends to keep the same SALC representative from the previous year, the team must inform the SALC Advisors in writing prior to May 1.
• Each representative is to assume the following duties for the duration of their term: • Each member is to act as the liaison between the council and their team for the duration of the term • Each member is to be present at monthly SALC meetings, at a time and date agreed upon at the beginning of the term, to represent their team • Attendance is required. Absences are excusable only in the following cases: family emergencies, athletic competitions occurring during the meeting, or for certain academic reasons • When an absence occurs, the SALC representative must send a different team representative in their place • If any SALC member accrues more than 2 unexcused absences, they will be removed immediately, and the team will be responsible for appointing a new representative. • Each member is to participate in at least one (1) community initiative per semester (i.e., Think Pink, Holiday Skate, Community Care games, etc.) • Each member is required to sit on one (1) committee per term. Appointment to the committees will take place during the first SALC meeting in September • Each member has one (1) voting right • Members are required to represent Brock University student-athletes in a positive way, and are expected to conduct themselves, both on and off campus, in a responsible manner that brings respect to the University and its’ athletic teams • While attending meetings and conversing with other council members, each member is expected to be open minded and respectful of other people’s thoughts and opinions • Members are required to undergo training annually, including, but not limited to, mental health first aid training at a time and date agreed upon prior to August 1. If you have any questions regarding SALC, please contact SALC advisors Erica Wortley, Manager Events & Partnerships at ewortley@brock.ca or Carli Tingstad, Head Coach, Women’s Soccer at ctingstad@brocku.ca 26 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
Intramural Participation As per Brock Sports & Recreation Intramural Rules, varsity student-athletes may not take part in intramural competition in the gendered sport they play intercollegiately (exceptions: men’s and women’s soccer may play indoor soccer intramurals, men’s and women’s ice hockey players can play coed intramural ice hockey once their season is complete). Additionally, further policies are in place: • No more than any combination of one current varsity or ex-varsity player from any post-secondary institution may play on the same team. Definition of ex-varsity: played within previous 2 school years. • Varsity (and ex-varsity) players must play in the Competitive A division. • No varsity player or student practicing consistently with a varsity team may participate in intramural competition in their sport, in-season. • Varsity student-athletes competing in full year sports cannot participate in intramurals in the same gendered sport league. If you are a red shirted player, you can participate outside of the regular season for your sport, with written approval from your coach. (eg. varsity basketball athletes cannot play basketball intramurals. Varsity soccer athletes can play indoor soccer, with permission, but cannot play outdoor soccer) Definition of Varsity and Ex-varsity Ex-varsity Any student-athlete who appeared on an OUA/USPORTS eligibility list within the past two school years. If you played a fall varsity sport, you will no longer be considered ex-varsity two years after your season ended. Varsity Any student-athlete currently on an OUA/USPORTS eligibility list (on the roster on gobadgers.ca webpage) of any varsity team or currently practices on a regular basis with a varsity team.
gobadgers.ca 27 Student-Athlete Manual 2022-2023
2022-23 Academic Excellence Award Winners