UPDATED AUGUST 2023
Coaches Manual
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 Coaches Welcome to the 2023-24 Season!
As coaches, you all play such a vital role in the success of our student-athletes. The student-athlete experience goes beyond athletic achievements. Your leadership in bridging the student-athlete experience with the four pillars of Brock Sports: 1) academic excellence; 2) athletic success; 3) leadership development; and 4) community engagement, are key components to the development of our future leaders. As coaches, your own dedication, responsibility and leading by example in a safe sport environment shows the commitment required for student-athletes to achieve their own successes.
The 2022-23 season, a year of renewal, saw us move to Canada Games Park and become the new permanent home of Brock Badgers hockey! Now, for the 2023-24 season, there is new energy with a significant increase in academic registration at the University. We anticipate there will continue to be a significant upswing as we move towards re-engaging and revitalizing our connections with our past, present and emerging Badgers. We continue to be proud hosts including winning the bids to host both the OUA Swimming Championship and OUA Figure Skating Championship for this upcoming season. We also look forward to planning for our 60th year anniversary celebrations for 2024-2025. Much more information will follow!
Again, this handbook serves as a base orientation guide to our intercollegiate program at Brock University and answers questions you may have regarding Brock Sports & Recreation policies and procedures. Please recognize that new processes and efficiencies will continue to be implemented as we continue to learn and advance.
There are many administrative responsibilities that are included in your role as coaches and support staff. It is important that you have a clear understanding of them. Just recently, Brock Sports & Recreation signed the Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM) Pledge. We pledge that our policies align with RCM values including:
2) Coaches understand and follow the Rule of Two to ensure a safe sport environment; and
1) Coaches being hired with best practices that include criminal police checks;
3) That both staff and coaches are trained to make ethical decisions in making decisions that impact the lives of young women and men. Again, these policies and responsibilities are in place to protect both our coaching staff and our student-athletes. Should you have any questions or inquiries, please don’t hesitate to stop in our offices to speak to myself or any one of our staff members.
Thank you for your leadership in advancing the mission and values of Brock Sports & Recreation. We couldn’t do it without you! Wishing you a great 2023-24 season!
Go Badgers!
Melissa Krist, Executive Director Brock Sports & Recreation1.0 Staff Directory
Melissa Krist
Executive Director
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4350
Cell: 416-420-6477
Email: mkrist@brocku.ca
Emily Allan
Associate Director, Athletics
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 3380
Cell: 905-359-3953
Email: eallan@brocku.ca
Steve Lidstone
Associate Director, Performance
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 5799
Cell: 289-668-7869
Email: slidstone@brocku.ca
Tim Stang Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 3776
Cell: 289-668-1374
Email: tstang@brocku.ca
David Velasco Manager, Varsity Operations
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4138
Cell: 289-241-0896
Email: dvelasco@brocku.ca
Matthew Ragogna
Coordinator, Student-Athlete Academic Support
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4506
Email: mragogna@brocku.ca
Erica Wortley
Manager, Events & Partnerships
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4517
Cell: 437-214-2711
Email: ewortley@brocku.ca
Stephen Leithwood
Communications Officer
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4752
Cell: 289-241-1899
Email: sleithwood@brocku.ca
gobadgers.ca
TBD
Sports Information Coordinator
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4368
Cell:
Email:
Carli Tingstad
Sports Club & Leadership Coordinator
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 6656
Cell: 250-550-7093
Email: ctingstad@brocku.ca
To view the full Brock Badgers staff directory, please see: gobadgers.ca/staff-directory
2.0 Brock Sports Overview
Brock Sports & Recreation Mission: To provide exceptional and diverse recreation and sport opportunities for the Badger community that promotes a healthy active lifestyle and supports holistic experiences in a safe and inclusive learning environment. (Last updated April 2023)
2.1 Brock Sports Core Business
Fostering the overall student-athlete experience through impactful sport programming in pursuit of athletic excellence. (Updated May 2023)
Brock Sports Pillars:
1. Academic Excellence
2. Athletic Success
3. Leadership
4. Community Engagement
2.2
Brock Sports Vision (under review)
• Student-athlete centeredness in an environment of excellence
• Student-athletes training and competing at the highest level in the U SPORTS system, OUA or equivalent league
• Competitive opportunities for student-athletes in a
context of fair play
• Departmental activities which are horizontally coordinated on campus
• Community involvement through outreach, charity activities, community fan support and sponsorship
• Our student-athletes and our coaches recognized as leaders in their sport
2.3 Our Values (Updated June 2023)
Integrity: We will act with integrity, honesty and personal accountability.
Respect: We celebrate our differences and offer each other mutual recognition of our knowledge, understanding and pride for each other’s individual work.
Inclusion: All of our actions intersect with equity and diversity in ensuring belonging for a welcoming environment.
Student-Athlete Centred: Every decision is measured to ensure we achieve a holistic approach for our studentathletes.
Strong Community Ties: We seek opportunities that provide meaningful ways to engage, celebrate our history and give back to our community - the community Brock University was founded on.
Excellence: We pursue the highest levels of teaching, coaching and student-athlete experience.
2.3.1 Who We Serve
The individuals for whom we administer our programs and our activities:
• All students including student-athletes and coaches of the University
• All faculty and administrators of the University
• Alumni
• Members of the community
2.4 Stakeholders
Individuals and organizations who assist in the provision of delivering programs and activities to our clients:
Ontario University Athletics (OUA)
U SPORTS
• Other universities
• Multi-sport organizations
• Local media partners
• Donors to the program
• Corporate Niagara
• Sponsors and business partners
• National Sport Organizations (NSOs) and Provincial Sport Organizations (PSOs)
3.0 Student-Athlete Regulations & Services
3.1 Eligibility
3.1.1 Brock (OUA)
Requirements
Eligibility
The following eligibility regulations apply to ALL studentathletes 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 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).
The above declaration of full-time status is based on the Registrar’s Academic Records regarding a student’s official enrollment in courses and payment of fees. Intending to enroll, being on a waiting list, or deferring enrollment does not constitute official enrollment.
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.
B. Falling below the minimum requirement of 1.5 credits in any given term.
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 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.
3.1.2 U SPORTS Eligibility
Student-athletes who take part in any of the U SPORTS aligned sports (Basketball, Cross Country, Curling, Hockey, Women’s Rugby, Soccer, Swimming, Tennis, Track and Field, Volleyball and Wrestling) must follow the instructions provided by U SPORTS, including signing into the U SPORTS portal. U SPORTS will send a login and password; if the student-athlete does not have this information, please contact Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance.
ANY ELIGIBILITY ISSUE THAT IS UNCLEAR TO THE COACH SHOULD BE CHECKED WITH THE MANAGER, VARSITY STUDENT-ATHLETE SERVICES & COMPLIANCE, PRIOR TO COMPETITION.
3.1.3 Coach Involvement Process
1. Student-Athletes are required to fill out the online ‘Athlete Form’ prior to participating in ANY team training (tryouts included). This form is available on-line for all student-athletes registered at Brock University through the Brock University portal and must be completed prior to any team participation.
A. Student-athletes need to sign in to their Brock Portal through my.brocku.ca and then click on the ‘Applicant & Student Self-Serve’ tab.
B. Next, click on ‘Student Self-Serve Menu’, then proceed to ‘ATHLETICS’ then ‘Athlete Form’- hit ‘NEW’ button, then pick sport, fill in all fields and save at the end.
It is mandatory that all student-athletes (returning athletes included) complete this form when trying out or participating for any team. At the time of submission, student-athletes may get an “ineligible” notification which may be dependent on their answers to questions, or because they are not registered in the required number of credits. Student-athletes and coaches will be notified by the department if they are ineligible.
2. Brock Sports will receive notification of all eligible/ ineligible student-athletes. If the student-athlete is under the age of 18 years, they must complete the form, print a copy and have their legal guardian sign it. These signed forms must then be returned a minimum of three (3) days prior to participation to Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance.
3. Coaches are responsible for checking their athlete’s online verification of student-athlete eligibility.
A. Login to my.brocku.ca
B. Click ‘Brock DB’ on left hand option menu
C. Under ‘Athletics’, click ‘Athlete Eligibility’
Coaches are to regularly monitor eligibility. It is good practice to check the site for ineligible student-athletes prior to any league competitions to avoid forfeiture and/or loss of championship titles. Please notify your student-athletes to not drop courses unless they have the required amount of credits to ensure full-time status, or they add another course prior to dropping a course.
4. The coach will receive a copy of the completed Eligibility Certificate for verification and signature. The coach is responsible for ensuring the certificate is accurate. This is achieved by either crossing off players that are no longer on the team, or by adding the information of student-athletes who are missing from the certificate and confirming the
years of eligibility. Please ensure any student-athletes added to the roster by you have completed their online forms and you have notified Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance, so appropriate steps can be taken.
5. The coach will return the corrected, signed Eligibility Certificate to Tim. If you are unsure of an athlete’s eligibility, please contact Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance.
3.1.4 Disqualification
Disqualification happens when:
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
Brock Academic Regulations and University Policy: brocku.ca/webcal/2022/undergrad/areg.html#sec63
3.1.5 Brock Academic Resources
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 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, Student-Athlete Academic Support Coordinator (mragogna@brocku.ca).
Learning Services
Student-athletes can attend Learning Services DropIn to get personalized support. Brock Sports will share rosters with Learning Services, including those studentathletes whose average falls below 65% or those who have been mandated by their coach to attend this service on a weekly basis. Learning Services will provide Brock Sports a weekly/bi-weekly attendance report to ensure compliance.
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 student-athletes to help them develop their ability to identify problem areas.
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/
3.2 Financial 3.2.1 Student-Athlete Fees (include BSP/BSM)
Mandatory fees will automatically be applied to studentathlete accounts. YOU MUST MAKE YOUR STUDENTATHLETES AWARE OF THE FEES TO BE CHARGED PRIOR TO THE SEASON. You will be notified once the
fees have been applied, so please tell your studentathletes to check their outstanding fees through their Brock Portal (my.brocku.ca) to ensure fees are paid prior to any interest being added. Non-payment of fees could “lock” the account, preventing them from registering in further credits, receiving marks and even graduating.
A detailed outline of the charges Brock Sports will be issuing all student-athletes will be sent to you in advance of the season. You can also find these fees and rationale in OneDrive in the ‘Fees’ folder. Cost of participation is based on sport classification. Fees are subject to change every year.
Some teams may assign additional fees outlined by the coach – these amounts need prior approval from the department. Coaches are to set additional fees by the start of the season and have a complete list of who is to be charged and the amount, sent to Emily Allan, Associate Director, one week prior to the charge date.
3.2.2 Scholarships, Bursaries and Financial Support
Academic Scholarships, Bursaries & Financial Support
Student-athletes can apply to hundreds of awards and bursaries at once through the OneApp via their Brock Student Portal at my.brocku.ca. ALL students (returning and new entrants) should apply between August 1 and October 15 for best selection. However, the app remains open until May 31. For further details, visit brocku.ca/safa/awards
Athletic Financial Awards
Student-athletes at Brock University can qualify for Athletic Financial Awards (AFA) according to the following criteria:
• 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.
gobadgers.ca
Athletic financial awards cannot exceed $5,000 and/ or the maximum of tuition and fees paid during the Fall/ Winter term.
Black or Indigenous Heritage Student-Athlete Bursary (BIHS)
Up to $2,000 is available to OUA student-athletes appearing on the eligibility certificate of an OUA sanctioned 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.
Application deadlines: October 15 via OneApp https://brocku.ca/safa/awards-and-bursaries/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.
Varsity 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). All varsity student-athletes enrolled in 4.0 or 4.5 credits during the Fall/Winter terms may apply for Tuition Relief by filling out the Varsity Athlete Tuition Relief Form (form found on the gobadgers.ca website under ‘Student-Athlete’), allowing them to pay the per credit cost, rather than the flat rate fee.
Applications close Oct 31st at 11:59 p.m., processing begins the following work week and the adjustments on student accounts occur within two (2) weeks of processing.
3.2.3 Special Funding
FISU
Games
Coaches shall be granted up to $750 in funding for coaching a FISU team that represents a Brock varsity sport. Athletes shall be granted up to $500 in funding for representing Canada in a FISU Games sport as a representative of a Brock-sanctioned varsity team. Please contact Emily Allan, Associate Director, if this applies to you or your student-athlete(s).
3.3 Code of Conduct and Policies
3.3.1 Relationships with Student-Athletes
The relationship between a coach and a student-athlete is unique. It is very important for each coach to realize this relationship is not one of equality but one with an unequal balance of power. As such, at no time shall coaches, assistant coaches or other team support staff become intimately involved with a student-athlete or student support staff such as a therapist, trainer or team manager (from their own team, or from another Brock Badgers team). An intimate relationship includes suggestive behaviour such as requests for sexual favours, or threat of reprisal for the rejection of such requests; flirting, physical contact, dating, sexual activity, living together, engagement or marriage. Professionalism and respect should be shown at all times when dealing with studentathletes. You are not only setting a norm of behaviour with your student-athletes and one that they can emulate, but you are also representing Brock University as a whole.
3.3.2 Codes of Conduct
OUA Code of Conduct
The 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.
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 at a U SPORTS National Championship.
U SPORTS Policy 90.60 can be found here: https://usports.ca/hq/by-laws-policies-procedures
Safe Sport
Brock Sports & Recreation is committed to a safe sport environment. In May 2023, the department pledged to be a member of the Responsible Coaching Movement (RCM). This includes being guided by the principles of the Rule of Two, ensuring hiring practices include background screening for all coaches and support staff, and a commitment to training for all coaches to make ethical decisions in ensuring the implementation of a safe environment that is free from discrimination and harassment.
Rule of Two:
The Coaches Association of Canada has provided guidance for the Rule of Two for coaching. In principle, this includes ensuring that all one-on-one meetings, including in-person and digital meetings, are done so with another adult present.
Guidance for Coaches for One-On-One In-Person Meetings with Adult Student-Athletes:
Student-athlete one-on-one meetings are to happen in areas where they can be observable. It is recognized there are times when a student-athlete wants to disclose/have a private discussion that requires privacy. If this is the case, coaches must make every effort to move to a space that allows confidentiality AND is observable. However, there are times when there is a difficult situation and this cannot happen in the moment. Coaches are to limit one-on-one time and notify the Associate Director/Executive Director when an observable interaction was not able to occur, as soon as possible after taking place.
Guidance for Coaches for One-On-One Digital Communication:
One-on-one text digital communication is permitted for appropriate topics, but must be limited whenever
possible. Best practice is to use group messaging at all times and avoid one-on-one text messaging. Detailed conversations/discussions should not happen via text. Conversations with student-athletes by coaches are to be directed through email as much as possible. Further, when one-on-one texting/direct messaging is used, coaches are not permitted to use disappearing digital communication (such as Snap Chat). Any one-on-one digital information is required to be stored for up to 3 years.
Hiring Practices for All:
All new coaches and support staff (paid or volunteer) hired are required to go through a screening process including:
1. Acceptable police check within 2 years (and renewed every 3 years) for coaches coaching adult-only programs (Note: Vulnerable sector police checks are acceptable for coaches working with youth/children/ minors);
2. Minimum two reference checks completed (request for three) for any new hire with an up-to-date resume/CV. Preference is given to reference checks for coaches at their last coaching position.
Coach Education Requirements:
Coaches are required to follow the minimum standards of sport certification for their sport, dependent on their coaching status (Head Coach, Assistant Coach, etc.)
All coaches and assistant coaches are required to follow OUA/U SPORTS mandated education, including but not limited to: CAC Safe Sport module, Make Ethical Decisions, Anti-Racism in Coaching, Making Headway in Sport [Rowan’s Law] or CATTonline, CCES Anti-Doping.
Coaches are required to maintain current training on any updated education modules.
Universal Code of Conduct to Prevent and Address
Maltreatment in Sport (UCCMS):
https://sportintegritycommissioner.ca/files/ UCCMS-v6.0-20220531.pdf
At the time of publication, the UCCMS code (version 6.0) is the standard code of behaviour to prevent maltreatment in sport - addressed in Sections 1-5, including 13 prohibited behaviours (5.2-5.14). In partnership with U SPORTS and OUA, Sections 6-8 address the implementation of the Universal Code, including proceedings, sanctions and disclosure are excluded. These are currently being reviewed in the University sport context, in order to be aligned across the province and country in the future. Breach of prohibited behaviours will continue to follow Brock University procedures and processes.
3.3.3 Coach Required Conduct and Best Practice Reminders
Coaches are expected to promote standards of fair play and safety by their student-athletes, including following the OUA Policy on Member, Administrator, Participant, and Coach Discipline.
Coaches are responsible for disciplining student-athletes for acts of misconduct or unethical behaviour during competitions, practice and team related functions. Coaches must ensure that student-athletes are medically fit to compete. If there is any doubt as to the medical condition of a student-athlete prior to, or during a competition, the coach shall refrain from allowing that student-athlete to compete.
Coaches are not permitted to enter or attempt to enter the locker room of a sporting official preceding or following a contest. Coaches are to remain in their designated coaching and team areas and refrain from any action that would incite others in attendance at the contest. Coaches are to be mindful that the continuation of play of any scheduled contest is the responsibility of the officials and that taking a team from any playing area is not the coach’s right. However, in instances where institutional policies related to safety direct a coach to vacate a playing area, the coach should respond accordingly.
There is a growing trend of disrespect for officials in all sports, and at all levels of sport. Coaches, participants, fans and administrators of sport programs exhibit such disrespect. As leaders in sport, universities have the ability to positively influence sport, but also have a duty
gobadgers.ca
to do so. It is our responsibility, as primary role models, to provide a positive influence in this area, not only to our participants, but also to those who look at sport in an educational setting as establishing and carrying out a leadership role.
Disrespect to officials includes:
• The use of abusive or foul language toward an official;
• Continuing to argue a ‘call’ or the failure to make a ‘call’ by an official;
• Direct verbal or non-verbal insults at officials;
• Invading an official’s space, even when instructed not to;
• Physical abuse of officials;
• Attempting to influence, intimidate or manipulate officials (‘working the officials’);
• Post-competition complaining about officials, which undermines their credibility.
It is our duty as leaders in sport to support and enhance the reputation of officials. Disrespect of those who are an integral part of the sport does little to enhance the value of the activity itself, nor the enjoyment of those who support and participate in it. As representatives of Brock Sports and Brock University, it is our expectation that you, as a coach, take your leadership role in this area very seriously. It is expected that you will not only examine your behaviour towards officials but will make a concerted effort to ensure that your staff and studentathletes’ behaviour is exemplary. You are a role model in terms of your behaviour toward officials and you should not engage in unacceptable behaviour. The rules of the sport may or may not have repercussions for disrespect, but Brock Sports will not tolerate such behaviour.
3.3.4 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 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.
Definition of Power Imbalance:
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.
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 team1.
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: 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 traditions is that when they are constructive during a student-athlete’s first year, they can create some 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!
A welcoming environment includes:
• Raising all team mates up
• 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 build 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.
• 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.
3.3.5 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 member’s work and learning environment. Brock prohibits and will not condone, tolerate or ignore any form of sexual violence. For individuals impacted by sexual violence, directly or indirectly, Brock University will provide access to supports, services and appropriate accommodations for all Brock community members as required.
Brock community members’ conduct will be held in accordance with the Brock Sexual Assault and Harassment Policy. Any breaches of this policy should be reported to the Brock University Human Rights & Equity Office. For information on how to approach reporting sexual violence, visit https://brocku.ca/human-rights/sexual-violence-2 Victims and survivors will be provided confidential support, guidance, referrals, and accommodations in accordance with the Policy.
3.3.6 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, 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/
3.3.7 Alcohol, Cannabis, Vaping/Smoking & Chewing Policy
Alcohol Code
Coaches should be aware that many incoming studentathletes will be under the legal age to consume alcohol. The standard for Brock Sports for all student-athletes are as follows:
• 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, fields, courts, 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. In addition, coaches are expected to drink responsibly, limiting and using discretion with alcohol when traveling and representing the University. This includes not consuming alcohol in the presence of student-athletes or bringing alcohol onto the bus or into hotel rooms.
All other restrictions can be found within the Brock University alcohol policy at brocku.ca/policies/wpcontent/ uploads/sites/94/Alcohol-Policy.pdf
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/
3.3.8 Social Media Usage - Individual & 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;
• Photos, videos, comments that are of a sexual nature. This includes links to websites of pornographic nature, and other inappropriate material;
• 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;
• 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 studentathlete, 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, studentathlete 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 & Recreation program, and in doing so uses the brand, likeness, and/or name of the University, the Brock Badgers brand or the specific team, they will need to contact the Sports Information Coordinator, to provide the department administration rights.
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.
3.3.9 3.3.9 Brock Sports & Recreation Incident Response Steps
Process Detail: Incident Action Steps
1. Incident occurs: Details of an incident are referred to Brock Sports & Recreation either through self report, referral or external notification (ie. other departments, partners, other institutions).
2. Initial investigation and report: An initial investigation is conducted by assigned staff to determine the core facts of the incident and the parties involved. Temporary sanctions may be imposed at this time.
3. Case path assessed:
A. Infractions involving incidents of a serious nature unrelated to Brock Sports & Recreation are referred to Human Rights & Equity (HRE) and/or Campus Safety Services and/or Student Affairs. This includes incidents for which the behaviour or actions endanger the safety and security of themselves or those around them, and/or compromises personal or university property, and/ or attacks the dignity/integrity of an individual(s), and/or breaks the laws of the land.
B. Infractions which do not include behaviours or actions endangering the safety and security of themselves or those around them, and/or attacks the dignity/integrity of the individual(s), with exception to incidents of hazing, shall be processed by Brock Sports and Recreation.
4. Meeting to discuss findings between respondent(s), the Manager, Student-Athlete Services and the Associate Director, Athletics: The respondent(s) meet with the Manager, StudentAthlete Services and the Associated Director, Athletics to provide their statement based on the initial findings and provide anyadditional information or acknowledgement of the presented facts. Generally, this meeting is meant to be a space for all parties to discuss the incident.
5. Brock Sports & Recreation will provide the respondent(s) a decision, including any sanctions, in writing within five to ten (5-10) business days.
6. Respondent(s) may appeal the decision based on the Brock Sports Appeal Procedure, provided not a re-hearing de novo but an appeal based solely on the grounds outlined by the appellant. After the outcome of the appeal, the decision (sanction imposed) may be less than, equal to or greater than those originally imposed.
Cases Referred to Student Affairs
Cases are referred to Student Affairs when the incident includes (but not limited to):
A. Incidents which directly violate the Brock University Student Code of Conduct and are unrelated to activities related to Brock Sports team activities (formal or informal).
B. The incident(s) involve behaviours or actions which endanger the safety and security of themselves, or those around them, and/or compromises personal or university property, and/or attacks the dignity/ integrity of an individual(s).
C. Incidents involving illegal acts or violations which break the law of the land.
D. Incidents in which Brock Sports and Recreation would be perceived in a conflict of interest.
Cases Referred to Human Rights and Equity (HRE)
Cases are referred to Human Rights and Equity when the incident includes:
a) Harassment and discrimination on the basis of race, ancestry, place of origin, colour, ethnic origin, citizenship, ancestry, creed, sex, gender identification, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, family status, receipt of public assistance (in housing), record of offences (in employment) and disability.
4.0 Administrative Duties
Note: Administrative access (including email, BrockDB, OneDrive, Workday and other user features) will be determined by the time period of your contract. Once expired,
your Workday access will be suspended automatically. Please call the Brock Sports Administrative Assistant to request information in your respective off-season.
4.1 League Scheduling
The department must approve all non-conference events, including scrimmages, exhibition and tournament participation. All OUA league/tournament schedules are generated by the OUA. Any adjustments to those schedules must be approved by Emily Allan, Associate Director, prior to being arranged through the department. Changes to the OUA schedule after publication are subject to a fine.
4.2 Financial
4.2.1 Team Budget
Coaches are responsible for reviewing and managing their team budget on a consistent basis throughout the season/ year. All coaches have access to their team programs in Workday. If access is not available, a request for access can be submitted by the Administrative Assistant. All equipment and supply requests and services must be approved by the department prior to ordering.
To view the Workday Handbook for all instructions pertaining to access and use, please use the following shared drive link: brocku-my. sharepoint.com/:f:/r/personal/ eallan_brocku_ca/Documents/Brock%20Sports%20-%20Coaches/ Workday?csf=1&web=1&e=cm2Q1Q
4.2.2 Assistant Coaches and Support Staff
Anyone that represents the University and is in contact with student-athletes or prospective student-athletes must sign a volunteer or employment contract before commencing any duties on behalf of Brock University.
Requirements for assistant coaches and support staff:
• Must provide a Criminal Record Check dated two years or less and continue to provide a valid Criminal Record Check every three years.
• Must have at minimum NCCP Competition
Introduction certification or equivalent for the sport you coach, to be an Assistant Coach that sits on the bench with the team during events;
• Must go through all the training requirements including Brock University Health & Wellness/ Violence in the Workplace, AODA, Safe Sport Training, Making Headway in Sport or CATTonline (Rowan’s Law), Make Ethical Decisions, Anti-Racism in Coaching, CCES and any others required by the Department and/or University annually.
• Everyone who serves in a coaching capacity must be separated from their time as a student* and/or student-athlete for at least two (2) years. *exceptions to be discussed with the Associate Director
4.2.3 Honoraria/Stipend Payments
Receipt of payment for stipend will not occur until the CONTRACT OF EMPLOYMENT has been completed. Please make sure that completed forms are submitted to the Administrative Assistant and not Human Resources. Once entered into Workday, an email from payroll will be sent outlining instructions for online signature.
1. The stipend portion will be payable bi-weekly through the sport season, as indicated by the contract of employment.
2. The contract of employment is for the timeline as outlined on the contract and can be terminated by either party with a minimum of thirty days’ notice.
4.2.4 Workday: Teams Cheat Sheet
Below is a list of common SPEND CATEGORIES that teams use when they purchase items. Please use the spend categories outlined below when purchasing these goods/services for consistency and reporting purposes (this is not a complete list, but includes the most commonly used in Brock Sports):
Team Apparel
Coaches Gear
Camp Shirts
Balls/Skates/Pads/Sticks/Shoes etc.
Team Equipment
Equipment Repair/Maintenance
Tape/Training Aids
Referees/Umpires/Officials
Tournament Fees/Registration Fees
Professional Dues/Registration
Ice Time/Ball Field Rental etc.
Software License Subscription
Team Meals (Home)
Team Meals (Away)
Tips
Airplane Tickets
Rental Cars/Vans
Taxi/Cab/Uber
Hotel Charges
Uniforms
Uniforms
Uniforms
Athletic Equipment Purchase
Athletic Equipment Purchase
Athletic Equipment Repairs & Maintenance
Athletic Supplies
Memberships
Entry Fees
Membership/Dues - Professional/Individual
Facilities Rental
Software and Licenses Purchase
Meals (Hospitality)
Meals (Travel)
Tips
Airfare
Car Rental
Taxi/Cab
Accommodation
Gas Fuel (Travel)
Mileage
Parking Charges
407 Charges, etc.
Mileage
Parking and Tolls
Parking and Tolls
Bus Travel Transportation
Promo Ad for Camps/Academy
Sponsorships for Camp/Academy attendance
Print (Advertising)
Sponsorship/Donations
REMINDERS
Every transaction line will need the following information:
Cost Centre
Varsity Teams:
• CC0755 - Team Operating Cost Centre
• CC0753 - Team Fundraising Cost Centre
Recruiting Expenses:
CC0755, Program: Varsity Athletics Recruitment
Professional Development Expenses:
• CC0755, Program: Professional Development
Spend Category / Expense Item
To find a spend category not on the previous list:
• In the search bar in Workday type in “Spend Category”
• Select “Spend Category in Outline Form”
• Select “All Spend Categories”, then “Non-Personnel Costs”, this will list all the spend categories available
Program
To find a list of programs:
• Try typing your sport name (e.g., “Basketball”), or in the search bar in Workday, type in “Programs”
• Select “Programs in Outline Form”
• Select “Brock Program”, then “Athletic Programs”, this will list all the team programs
Recruitment Expenses:
• Costs incurred related to varsity athlete recruitment need to receive PRIOR approval from Emily Allan, Associate Director
• When completing expense reports relating to recruitment expenses, select CC0755, program ‘Varsity Athletics Recruitment’.
Professional Development Expenses:
• Costs incurred related to professional development/ conference attendance need to receive PRIOR approval from Emily Allan, Associate Director
• When completing expense reports relating to professional development expenses, select CC0755, program ‘Professional Development’
4.2.4.1 Reimbursement of Allowable Expenses
Coaches are responsible for their own expense reports. Reports are completed in Workday and receipts are attached directly in Workday. Full-time coaches have purchasing cards (P-cards) and should make all team purchases on that card. Expenses are to be reconciled monthly. Coaches who do not have a P-card will incur the expense on Brock’s behalf and are to submit their own expense report in Workday for direct reimbursement. To complete an expense report in Workday, please refer to the Workday Handbook (in the OneDrive shared folder) and previous cheat sheet.
All expenses must be submitted at the end of each month they were incurred. For the current athletic season (September to April), expenses must be claimed no later than April 1 so they can be included in the current fiscal budget. Expenses submitted after April 25, but incurred during the previous season, may not be reimbursed, and if reimbursed, will come out of the next fiscal budget.
Receipts MUST show taxes and tips if applicable. When dining out, the itemized receipt that shows what was consumed is needed, along with debit/visa receipt (if applicable). Coaches also need to list the people that were there consuming the meal.
Note: Alcohol cannot be expensed. Coaches will be responsible for their own alcohol purchases. Please make sure to request a separate receipt for alcohol from your server.
• Maximum tip allowed at a restaurant is 15%; please note that some restaurants will already include gratuity with larger groups so please make sure to double check, so you do not tip twice.
• Maximum tip for a taxi fare is 10%.
HINT: Immediately after you get a receipt, take a picture with your phone. This way you can have a record in case it goes missing, and you can also upload to Workday using the mobile app (which is slightly different looking than the cloud version).
4.2.4.2 Non-Reimbursable Expenses
Expenses that will NOT be reimbursed include:
• Alcohol purchases
• Parking infractions, tickets, or fines. This includes parking tickets on campus
• Any personal expenses
In the event a receipt is not available, you will need to complete a Missing Receipt form.
4.2.5 Brock Sports Clothing Order Procedures
Product Inquiries: Coaches are encouraged to access catalogues and product information. Inquiries are to go directly to Erica Wortley, Manager, Events & Partnerships at ewortley@brocku.ca
Submitting Orders: Orders will ONLY be accepted on the official order form.
Once your order is submitted, a ‘Quotation’ will be sent to you for approval, and also to the department. Coaches need to review for accuracy and confirm with the T. Litzen representative, whereas the department will confirm funds for the purchase. Following the ‘Quotation’ an ‘Order Acknowledgment’ will be sent to the coach for approval.
Art Approval: Following coach approval of the ‘Order Acknowledgment’, T. Litzen will send an ‘Artwork Approval’ to Erica Wortley to approve. Following approval, the order will process and ship when ready.
Order Inquires: Please email Erica Wortley at ewortley@ brocku.ca with all order inquiries. When possible, please provide the order number which is located at the top of your ‘Order Acknowledgement’.
Order Pick Up: The order will arrive at central Shipping & Receiving and be delivered to the department. Our departmental Equipment Manager will inventory, ensure there are no issues, and notify for coach pickup. Invoices will be sent to the Administrative Assistant for payment. Additional Notes:
• In order to ensure an August delivery, team orders need to be approved and finalized by May. Orders submitted after this date may be subject to backorder. These bookings are made to secure inventory for your team.
• The turnaround time for T. Litzen orders placed throughout the year is a minimum of 6-8 weeks but varies - ask for a delivery date before ordering.
• Should you need to make changes to your order or require further information, please make sure you provide the order number and send your request to Erica Wortley at ewortley@brocku.ca
4.2.6 Fundraising and Support Strategies
Teams may be interested in fundraising to supplement their team operations. All proposed fundraising initiatives MUST RECEIVE PRIOR APPROVAL from Emily Allan or David Velasco. This is to ensure that such initiatives not only follow the law, but also those guidelines established by the University. This includes solicitation of donations of service and/or goods from suppliers, restaurants, etc. If your team will be fundraising externally, or for information on the Adopt a Badger fundraising program, contact Erica Wortley, Manager, Events & Partnerships at ewortley@brocku.ca
The university has a policy regarding off-campus “pubrelated” events sponsored by Brock related groups. Such events must not use the name of the University or Brock Sports. Use of the university or department name places a degree of liability on the university.
4.2.6.1 Sponsorships and Donations
A Sponsorship is a marketing-oriented, contracted financial alliance between Brock University and a corporation, foundation or individual. Sponsorships can be beneficial alliances in which Brock University receives a fee or other consideration and the sponsor
benefits from market exposure and/or favoured products or corporate profile. Funds provided to the University through sponsorships are not eligible for charitable income tax receipts in accordance with Canada Revenue Agency Regulations and Guidelines. A sponsorship is not a donation or a private grant.
In June 2023, the Department began to formalize its department-wide sponsorship strategy. If you are interested in discussing a sponsorship strategy for your team, please reach out to Erica Wortley, Manager, Events & Partnerships at ewortley@brocku.ca . Please note that ALL sponsorship relationships with Brock must be identified and recorded with the Manager, Events & Partnerships for information purposes, in order to support the prospect clearance and coordination process.
A donation is defined by Canada Revenue Agency as a voluntary transfer of cash or property to the University that is made without expectation of any benefit of any kind accruing to the donor or any individual or organization designated by the donor. Each varsity team has their own donation page which can be found here. For any questions regarding donations, or to deposit donations that require a tax receipt, please reach out to Erica Wortley, Manager Events & Partnerships.
4.2.6.2 Strategic Partnerships
Through Strategic Partnerships, Brock Sports & Recreation maintains policies that govern partnership activities such as donations for community benefits and sponsorships. Brock Sports & Recreation is approached annually by many potential partners seeking varying levels of support. Unfortunately, Brock Sports & Recreation is unable to support all charities in need. Brock Sports & Recreation leverages the name, brand and likeness for partnerships with the following organizations, all to create successful partnerships and ensure consistent treatment for every potential partner: U SPORTS and OUA initiatives (including Shoot for the Cure/Shoot for Change), Movember, United Way Charities, and the Niagara Health Foundation. For more information, please connect with Erica Wortley at ewortley@brocku.ca
4.2.6.3 Poster approval process
To enhance fundraising efforts, teams may want to take advantage of hanging posters around campus to increase visibility and awareness. Brock Sports & Recreation has a policy in place that is aligned with the University’s policy for hanging posters around campus. When wanting to put up posters around campus, please note the following 2-step process:
1. Seek approval from within the department. Please send Erica Wortley (ewortley@brocku.ca) a brief overview of the initiative, including a draft of the poster, no later than 72 hours in advance of wanting to post them.
2. Brock requires that your poster abides by the Campus Promotions Policy. It is asked that you bring all of your posters to the Student Success Centre (TH129) so they can receive a stamp of approval before they are posted on the bulletin boards around campus. You can find the University’s Campus Promotions Policy online HERE.
4.3 Parking Services
To obtain a parking permit, please request through our Administrative Assistant.
For Stipend and Volunteer Coaches using an Athletic Coaches parking permit:
The Athletic Coach permit allows for coaches to park in Reserved B Lot before 8:00 a.m. and after 3:30 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends (with the exception of 2 a.m.- 5 a.m.). Outside of the above stated times, coaches must park in Zone 3 (formerly Lot S).
Coaches - Overnight:
Overnight parking for away competitions/events will be provided for coaches that have a valid parking permit or Athletic Coaches permit; coaches should park on the west side of Zone 3 (formerly Lot S), closest to the daycare, for overnight parking. Overnight parking with a permit is not permitted in any other lot on campus.
Please note that anyone with balances owing on their parking account must clear them before any further
parking arrangements can be made. Parking outside of the arrangements above will result in vehicles being ticketed and/or towed. Coaches and staff are responsible for any parking fines incurred.
4.4 Travel
Important: All coaches/assistants are required to travel with the Coaches Manual as the emergency response plan is outlined clearly and contains the necessary contact numbers.
4.4.1 Team Travel Guidelines
Same Day Competition:
• Coaches may drive a rental vehicle a maximum of 300km (to the venue), coach their event, followed by the return trip (300 km) back to Brock.
• If the venue is over 300 km from the University, coaches must either hire a driver or rent a bus.
• If the competition is over 4 hours away from Brock, it is recommended that the trip includes an overnight stay.
• If the venue is over 3 hours, but less than 4 hours away from Brock, and the competition is a doubleheader (back to back days), the trip can include no more than one overnight stay.
• Only the allowable travel roster is permitted to travel with the team for away competitions.
Overnight Competition:
If the competition involves an overnight stay, the coach may drive up to 400km with at least one 15 minute rest stop.
• Anything over 400km will require the hiring of a driver or the rental of a bus.
• Only the allowable travel roster is permitted to travel with the team for overnight competitions.
• No other students, parents or fans are permitted to travel on the bus with the team or in the rental vehicle.
Please note – all travel plans are dependent on approval from Emily Allan, Associate Director.
Out of Country Travel:
All plans to travel out of the country, whether for a day trip or overnight, must be accompanied by an approved TREMP (Trip Risk & Emergency Management Plan) form. This form must be completed and submitted to Emily Allan, Associate Director, a minimum of four (4) weeks in advance of the planned trip, for further approval. The TREMP form can be found in the Coaches folder (Forms) in OneDrive.
U SPORTS Awards/First Team All-Star Awards Travel: Transportation, accommodation (if needed) and meals (if needed) will be provided to student-athletes and coaches to receive their recognition/award at the U SPORTS Awards Gala.
4.4.2 Travel Arrangements
All booking of vehicles for team travel must be arranged through David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations. The department will determine appropriate travel based on the coaches’ departure and return times (see below re: Vehicle Policies).
4.4.3 Accommodation Policies
1. All booking of accommodations must be arranged through David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations.
2. Room assignments for the team are to be determined by the coach. These assignments must be submitted to David one week prior to the date of travel. Adjustments to the final rooming list can be made if necessary (sickness, not travelling, etc.). Maximum 1 person per bed. Coaches and team staff are never to share a room with a student (including studentathletes, student therapists, etc.).
3. Coaches are reminded to have student-athletes check all rooms immediately upon arrival for any disrepair, etc. Any problems found should be reported to the management of the establishment immediately, to ensure that such problems are not attributed to your team’s occupancy.
4. Student-athletes, coaches and support staff are PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE for any charges to the room other than the base cost of the room rental.
5. Student-athletes, coaches and support staff are PERSONALLY RESPONSIBLE for any damage to the rooms and any items reported missing from the rooms.
6. The coach is responsible for ensuring the studentathletes’ behaviour and deportment, during their occupancy, is above reproach.
7. Student-athletes may be granted permission, with valid reason, to stay at accommodations other than those provided for the trip.
8. Alcoholic beverages are NOT permitted in room accommodations or in any mode of transportation (vehicle, bus, flight, etc.) when representing Brock at any competition. Student-athletes are to be reminded of the alcohol code when on away trips.
4.4.4 Student Communication While Travelling
1. Single day travel (no overnight) – Coaches need to inform student-athletes and support staff of the departure time AND the proposed return time, as well as pick-up location. The delegation should be aware of any penalties associated with not adhering to the established times.
2. Overnight Trips – Prior to departure, coaches need to 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.
If there is an emergency while travelling (ie. Injury requiring trip to hospital), please contact your BSM staff to make appropriate arrangements for an assistant coach to be with the student-athlete if the parent/guardian is not present.
4.4.5 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/Default.aspx
Graduate students can find information at: https://www.studentvip.ca/Default.aspx
To check validity of a student’s status on supplementary BUSU coverage:
If planning an international student trip, please email Joanne Matko (healthplan@brockbusu.ca) the names and student ID #’s of the students participating. Joanne can then verify whether or not they are enrolled or have opted out. If the student is not insured on BUSU’s plan, the department can advise the student they need to obtain travel coverage from another source prior to departure.
Part-time coaches, assistant coaches and team support staff must also have their own out-of-country coverage for hospital or emergency care if they plan on travelling with the team. Brock Sports must have this information (for student-athletes, coaches and support staff) on file, and ensure it is available to coaches who are traveling out of country with their team.
4.4.6 Vehicle Policies
1. Coaches/staff are required to follow the Brock University - Driver and Vehicle Management Policy and the Driver and Vehicle Management Procedures when travelling in rental vehicles for Brock University business purposes.
2. All vehicle rentals are to be booked through David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations using a preestablished vendor relationship. Departure and return times are to be discussed in consultation with the coach.
3. Coaches/staff are recommended to rent a vehicle (rather than using their own) when travelling for Brock University business purposes, and required to rent a vehicle when travelling a distance greater than 500km round trip. Not only is this more economical, but people travelling on Brock business should not incur potential personal liability.
4. All drivers MUST complete/submit a Driver Authorization Form with a copy of a current driver’s license to David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations prior to driving a rental vehicle for the first time. This is to occur once every year at the start of the season. Forms can be found on the website or through the administrative office.
5. Rental vehicles (cars/vans) should be visually checked, internally and externally, for any damage PRIOR to departure. Items in question should be reported to and noted by the dealer prior to use of the vehicle (if possible, take pictures).
6. Rental vehicles (cars/vans) should be cleaned (removal of garbage, etc.) internally upon return. Additional charges are levied for cleaning.
7. Any problems with the vehicle during its use should be reported to the dealer and David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations immediately upon return.
8. On return, drivers are required to fill the vehicle’s gas tank prior to drop off. Gas charges are substantially less at regular outlets compared to those at the rental agency. When dropping off, take pictures of vehicle (inside, outside and gas gauge) and keep as visual evidence.
9. Any rental vehicle that exceeds ten (10) passenger capacity, must be driven by an individual who holds a minimum of an “F” class license.
10. 407 ETR usage must be preapproved by the department.
11. Alcoholic beverages are not to be carried or consumed in any vehicles used for Brock business purposes.
12. Personal vehicles – the department does not encourage or promote the use of personal vehicles when travelling for Brock business purposes. Coaches, support staff and/or student-athletes are not permitted to transport other student-athletes or student staff in their personal vehicle, when transportation is provided. The coach may grant permission, with valid reason, for individuals to drive their own vehicles to an away contest, however, other team members will not be allowed to travel with that individual. The coaches, support staff and studentathlete should clearly understand that permission absolves the university of any responsibility during such travel, and no reimbursement will be provided for such travel. Details must be noted on the Varsity Travel Sheet prior to departure and the studentathlete must complete and submit a Travel Release Form to their coach, found here: 2023 Varsity Travel Release Form (PDF) - Brock University Athletics
(gobadgers.ca) Once completed and approved by the coach, please submit the approved Travel Release Form(s) to David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations.
13. The expectation is that all student-athletes who travel with the team to an away contest will return with the team. A coach may grant permission to a studentathlete, for valid reason, to not return with the team. This must be noted on the Varsity Travel Sheet prior to departure.
4.5 Recruitment
4.5.1 Regulations and Conduct
Coaches are responsible for being aware of and adhering to all league recruiting policies. League rules establish limitations on official recruit visits, reimbursements and gifts. Offers of Athletic Financial Awards (AFAs) should be confirmed prior to making the offer with Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student Athlete Services & Compliance. All AFAs should be presented to recruits in an official letter of offer from Brock Sports.
U SPORTS:
https://usports.ca/hq/by-laws-policies-procedures
OUA: https://oua.ca/about/governance/oua_procedures
4.5.2 Letter of Intent (LOI)
The Letter of Intent (LOI) is specific to U SPORTS teams. The LOI creates a formal acknowledgement of the recruit’s intent to attend Brock University and provides notice to all other institutions that they can no longer actively recruit the student-athlete.
LOIs can be issued no more than 12 months prior to the start of the recruit’s academic year. To have an LOI issued, the recruit must hold an account with U SPORTS Central (USPORTScentral.ca/StudentCentre) and pay the mandatory one-time fee of $50. U SPORTS will generate a unique ID which can then be provided to Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student Athlete Services & Compliance for the online issuing of a letter.
U SPORTS: usports.ca/hq/eligibility/letter-of-intent
5.0
Major Services
5.1 Walker Sports Complex: Facilities/Central Equipment Room
In August of 2022, the Departments of Brock Sports and Brock Recreation merged again to become the Department of Brock Sports & Recreation. While we have functioned together for many years, it is important to understand that we are all one team, working to provide great programming for students, faculty, staff and community. Walker Sports Complex is home to several departments, programs and facility members. Brock Sports & Recreation is proud of our full-time and student staff who provide customer service to our university partners and guests. Please remember with so much going on, the staff doesn’t know everyone. A quick introduction and request to our staff will help enable them to provide assistance. Please always include facilities staff in your planning and ask for a facility supervisor on duty if you need assistance.
1. Membership Facility
Walker Sports Complex is a membershipbased facility. Every registered Brock University student pays ancillary fees that cover their facility membership. During individual training, studentathletes and coaches should provide their student card/membership ID at the Central Equipment Room desk for activity space access. Booked time such as team practice does not require individuals signing in at the Central Equipment Room desk.
2. Booking Requests
A Coaches Request Form must be filled out for any event outside of the regular practice schedule (eg. fundraising/ recruiting events). The request form helps Brock Sports & Recreation make the most of our space allocation and helps provide information to other staff in the building. The digital form can be sent to David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations, with a copy to Brent Schulz, Facilities Manager, for consideration and approval. The approval will be provided by Emily Allan, Associate Director.
3. Regular Practices
Practice schedules will be provided by David Velasco, Manager, Varsity Operations prior to your season. Any changes or cancellations should be reported to David a minimum of 1 week in advance.
4. Last 10 Minute Rule
Walker Sports Complex operates on a 10 minute cleanup/set-up rule. The last 10 minutes of your booking is the transfer time for one booking to end and another to set up. For example, if your booking is 2-4 p.m. then at 3:50 p.m. practice is over and clean up begins while set up for the next booking begins. Please be sure to adhere to and respect this rule.
5. University Events
There are many other departments and events that require space in Walker Sports Complex, including academic programs, exams, convocation and student initiatives. There will be times when services we provide are stretched thin (eg. during student exams, team practices may be limited or unavailable).
6. Gameday Apparel
A Varsity Equipment Request Form should be obtained from the Central Equipment Room, filled out and submitted to the supervisors at least 24 hours in advance of the pick-up time. Please check what has been packed for you upon pick-up, before leaving Walker Sports Complex.
7. Laundry Service
Laundry service can include a towel, a laundry loop and gameday apparel. Not all teams are provided with towels or laundry loops. These services are terminated at the end of the teams’ regular season.
8. Seasonal Locker/Team Room
The Walker Sports Complex has limited team room and locker availability. We are committed to supporting U SPORTS and OUA policies where possible. Often the number of daily events puts a strain on our resources. Some teams will be issued a team room and/or locker use during their regular season based on availability. These team rooms may be shared by other teams, home and/or visiting. Student-athletes will be asked to vacate lockers once the team has completed its season. It is the coach and managers duty to assist with the issue and care of these services.
9. Travel Access To/From Walker Sports Complex
Please notify your department coordinator and facilities staff of departure and arrival times for away competitions. Facilities staff will help where possible in providing access to your equipment and the facility. If the departure or arrival times are outside of building hours, you will be directed to contact Campus Safety Services at ext. 3200 (after hours #) to gain access to the facility.
*Services subject to change based on University guidance in unforeseen circumstances eg. COVID safety measures, budget constraints, etc.
5.2 Brock Sports Performance Centre (BSPC)
Brock Sports Performance (BSP) offers expert performance coaches and quality strength and conditioning programming to our varsity studentathletes.
Brock Sports Performance is comprised of four lead sports performance coaches and 50 undergraduate kinesiology student volunteer coaches. For bios on the BSP coaches visit brocku.ca/bsp
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.
Based on the sport model:
• Services are offered 12 months of the year to basketball, hockey, rowing, volleyball, wrestling athletes/teams.
• Services are offered 8 months of the year to rugby, soccer, swimming athletes/teams during the academic year.
• Services may be offered to baseball, cross country, curling, fencing, figure skating, golf, lacrosse, softball, squash, tennis, track and field athletes/ teams during their respective season and can be extended through the academic year.
Based on the sport model, BSP services may include:
• Strength & conditioning workouts either in the BSP Centre or in the Rowing Centre weight room
• Testing completed by sports performance coaches and/or interns (spot testing completed as needed)
• 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
Expectations of Varisty Head Coaches for BSP:
1. Lead Sports Performance Coaches are to be treated as an extension of your team staff.
2. Student volunteer coaches and interns are to be treated as an extension of your team staff.
3. To access training sessions, athletes are to always track their progress on Team Buildr via iPads (provided in the BSPC) or personal cell phones, have a water bottle and wear Brock or neutral gear (when possible).
4. T-shirts with sleeves are required to access the BSPC and Rowing Centre Weight Room.
5. Team attendance will be tracked via Team Buildr with an 80% attendance rate minimum requirement (accommodations accepted for class conflicts)
6. Expectations are that the athlete will complete all sessions with their team unless otherwise communicated with sport coach and lead performance coach via email.
7. Communication and collaboration via email is necessary. Please be sure to communicate any changes in the schedule in advance and for any changes regarding the workouts, please allow the BSP lead coaches to communicate this to the student-athletes.
8. Coaches are to communicate the annual competition schedule to their lead performance coaches as soon as it is released by the OUA, to allow for timely YTP creation prior to July 1st annually.
9. For applicable teams, coaches are to meet weekly with lead performance coaches and lead Brock Sports Medicine staff for Integrated Support Team (IST) weekly meetings.
10. Coaches are to trust that if lead performance coaches need to discipline tardy or frequently absent student-athletes by removing BSPC or Rowing Centre Weight Room privileges, it needs to be supported.
5.3 Brock Sports Medicine (BSM)
5.3.1 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 from basketball, hockey, rowing, rugby, soccer, swimming, volleyball and wrestling are to have their athletic injuries assessed and treated at the Brock Sports Medicine Clinic in Harrison Hall (next to Campus Security). Baseball, cross country, curling, fencing, figure skating, golf, lacrosse, softball, squash, tennis and track and field athletes are to have their athletic injuries assessed and treated in the Varsity Trainers Room (VTR) by booking an appointment with Luke Doherty.
Sports Medicine physicians are available Monday, Wednesday and Friday at varying times during the varsity season. Four Certified Athletic Therapists, 2 Registered Massage Therapists and one Sport Physiotherapist are available in the clinic during the varsity season. Appointments are also available with a Sport Chiropractor and an Osteopath in the Harrison Hall clinic during the varsity season.
The VTR is located in the Walker Sports Complex on the lower level, just left of the main change room entrance, and is open daily from 3:00 p.m. to approximately 9:00 p.m. (ext. 4835). Student-athletes who are being taped before a competition or practice will be taped in either the VTR or the Recovery Room and must allow enough time for taping and preparation or they may be late for their practice or competition.
The Recovery room is located adjacent to the squash courts in the Walker Complex. The recovery room is equipped with taping and treatment tables, anti-gravity chairs, massage guns, NormaTecs and Game Ready units with attachments. The recovery room is staffed with a student BSM staff or student BSP staff hourly Mon-Fri 9am-9pm throughout the varsity season (Sept 11-April 25), to allow for varsity student-athletes to pro-actively recover throughout the week.
5.3.2 Staff and Services
For contact information and more information on the Physicians, Lead Therapists, and Consultants, please visit: https://brocku.ca/sports-medicine
5.3.3 Bracing, Compression Apparel & Custom Knee Braces
BSM fits and sells custom knee braces to studentathletes who require them. The student-athlete will need a doctor’s prescription if claiming under extended health care. BSM will do the sizing, ordering and fitting of the braces at Brock and receipts will then be provided for insurance needs. When buying braces through BSM, the student-athlete can be assured the sizing and fitting is done properly and is done here on campus. BSM has partnered with C. Turner Medical & Orthomed to provide access to in-house bracing and compression apparel. If you require any of these products, please book an appointment with a sports medicine physician via the BSM receptionist at ext. 3791.
5.3.4 How to Book an Appointment to See the Doctor or 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.
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 Accuro EMR software.
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. Student-athletes who drop in before practice cannot be assured they will be assessed and treated during this very busy time. 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 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 wellbeing throughout their varsity career. 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.
5.3.5 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.
5.3.6 Varsity Trainers Room (VTR)
The Varsity Trainer’s Room is 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 Monday to Friday 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.
5.3.7 Concussions & Post-Concussion Instructions
Any student-athlete with a suspected concussion should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY. The student-athlete is not to return to the activity until they are assessed medically and cleared for further participation. Should the student-athlete or coach report ANY of the following symptoms, the studentathlete is to be safely and immediately removed from the field:
1. Headache
2. Dizziness
3. Ringing in the ears
4. Memory loss
5. Nausea
6. Light sensitivity
7. Drowsiness
8. Depression
9. Increasing confusion or irritability
10. Repeated vomiting
11. Seizure or convulsion
12. Weakness or tingling / burning in arms or legs
13. Deteriorating conscious state
14. Unusual change in behavior
15. 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
Once the student-athlete makes an appointment, our physicians, in collaboration with our lead therapists, will oversee and help the student-athlete navigate the Return to Learn and Return to Play protocols.
In addition, to ensure student-athletes get the required academic accommodation, they need to 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.
Coach Concussion Awareness Training
Coaches are required to complete and submit their proof of completion for their concussion awareness training. Coaches are encouraged to select either the NCCP or CATT course below.
A. NCCP - Making Headway in Sport
https://coach.ca/sport-safety/concussion-awareness
B. CATT – Concussion Awareness Training Tool
https://cattonline.com
Rowan’s Law
Requirements for Sport Organizations
Ontario is a national leader in concussion management and prevention. Rowan’s Law (Concussion Safety) 2018 makes it mandatory for sports organizations to:
• Ensure that athletes under 26 years of age, parents of athletes under 18, coaches, team trainers and officials confirm every year that they have reviewed Ontario’s Concussion Awareness Resources
• Establish a Concussion Code of Conduct that sets out rules of behaviour to support concussion prevention
• Establish a Removal-from-Sport and Return-toSport protocol
Please ensure you have reviewed the Rowan’s Law Website annually to stay up to date on current best practice for concussions in sport.
https://www.ontario.ca/page/rowans-law-concussion-safety
5.3.8 Brock Sports Medicine Billing
With the addition of Misty Adams, our new Brock Sports Medicine Clinic & Billing Coordinator (sportsmed@brocku. ca or ext 3791), 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.
Brock Sports Medicine will post a Billing FAQ document on the BSM website. 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.
5.3.9 Sport Nutrition Dining Hall
The Badger Varsity Athlete Meal Plan is back by popular demand this season. If your athlete purchased a 100 swipe meal plan last year (2022-2023) and has 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 studentathletes 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
For any first-year athletes who will be living on campus in residence, meal plans are mandatory.
• 5-day All Access - $5410 (subject to HST)
• 7-day All Access - $5754 (subject to HST)
See website for reference: https://brocku.ca/dining-services/residence-meal-plans/
HOW TO ACCESS THE ATHLETE MEAL PLAN:
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.
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 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/
Post-Game Team Meal Services
Chef Nick and Rebecca will develop a few hot and cold food options to fit into the budget of $12.00* per person. Each meal will include a carbohydrate, protein and healthy fat source. Example: chicken or tofu stir fry bowls with rice and mixed vegetables. Brock Dining will require home game schedules for each team and any dietary restrictions.
*price subject to change
Team Meals to Go – Away Games
Brock Dining will accommodate away games and boxed lunches when needed. Each meal will include a carbohydrate, protein and healthy fat source. Brock Dining will require dates when meals to go are needed and any dietary restrictions. Example: artisan wraps or sandwiches with fruit.
If you have any questions regarding the student-athlete meal plan or how to order meals for your team, please contact Rebecca Delduco, Registered Dietitian for Aramark and Brock Dining Services.
Rebecca Delduco, RD | Registered Dietitian | Aramark Central Canada | Brock University
CELL: 289-668-8288
EMAIL: delduco-rebecca@aramark.ca
Nicholas Paulino | Executive Chef | Aramark Central Canada | Brock University
CELL: 289-547-6016
EMAIL: paulino-nicholas@aramark.ca
WEB: aramark.ca
5.3.10 Drug Education Program
All student-athletes are required to complete an online drug education program as a condition of their eligibility. The program ensures a consistent and up-to-date message is delivered to all student-athletes and coaches. This can be done at the student-athlete’s convenience and takes approximately 50 to 60 minutes to complete. The online course may be completed in a single session or you may choose to exit at any time and return to where you left off when you next log in.
ALL COACHES MUST COMPLETE THIS COURSE AS WELL.
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.
7. One you have logged in, follow the appropriate steps to complete the True Sport Clean Quiz.
If you are taking the CCES online course for the first time:
1. Please follow this link: https://cces.myabsorb. com/?KeyName=USPORTS-2023#/
2. Copy-and-paste the key below into the appropriate text box and press Sign Up. Enrolment Key: USPORTS-2023
3. 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.
4. Log in with your new username and password. Go to “My Courses”. You must complete the “Profile” module before you can start the course.
5. 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
Student-athletes and coaches should note that there has been some relaxation of the guidelines around cold and flu over-the-counter medication. BSM can provide you with a partial list of acceptable remedies. If a student-athlete is taking a banned medication that is prescribed by their physician, they must have their physician or a Brock Sports Medicine Physician complete a “Therapeutic Use Exemption Form” (Forms can be requested from Brock Sports Medicine at sportsmed@ brocku.ca), to be faxed to CCES. The student-athlete will then be notified by CCES as to the status of their eligibility. This can be time consuming, so the studentathlete is encouraged to have the form completed and faxed to CCES immediately upon discovery of taking such banned medication.
5.3.11 Drug Testing
U SPORTS student-athletes and coaches should note that they are subject to random, no-notice drug testing according to the Canadian Centre for Ethics in Sport (CCES) guidelines. These guidelines forbid the use of cannabinoids (marijuana and its derivatives). A positive test will result in a student-athlete sanction.
5.3.12 Therapeutic Use Exemptions (TUE)
What is a Therapeutic Use Exemption?
Student-athletes, like all others, may have illnesses or conditions that require them to take particular medications. If the medication a student-athlete is required to take to treat an illness or condition happens to fall under the World Anti-Doping Agency’s Prohibited List, a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE) may give that student-athlete the authorization to take the needed medicine. Student-Athletes are not automatically granted authorization, but must submit a TUE application to the appropriate governing body. Go straight to the TUE forms and requirements (cces.ca/en/ medicalforms)
Under what circumstances will a TUE application be approved?
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.
How long is a 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 the student-athlete’s responsibility to know when the TUE expires and to apply for renewal before this date if necessary.
Who should 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.
5.3.13 Permitted use
To check medications to ensure they are not banned, please go to the Global Dro Website https://www.globaldro.com/Home
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
Please Note: If medications are available at a local pharmacy, the student-athlete can speak with a pharmacist to ask any questions or if they are unsure of the medication contents.
6.0 Brock Initiatives and Involvement
6.1 Badgers 4 Badgers
What is Badgers 4 Badgers? Badgers 4 Badgers is a program that is meant to create support for all Brock Sports varsity teams and generate an increased sense of school pride. With varsity student-athletes supporting and cheering for one another, Badgers 4 Badgers develops pride and spirit at Brock.
This program is being revamped for the 2023-24 season –stay tuned!
IF YOU ARE UNSURE, YOUR STUDENT-ATHLETE SHOULD CHECK WITH BSM STAFF BEFORE TAKING ANY MEDICATION – THIS INCLUDES HERBAL REMEDIES.
6.2 Student-Athlete Leadership Council (SALC)
The Student-Athlete Leadership Council is comprised of Brock University varsity student-athletes and is designed to both represent the interests of student-athletes, while also providing feedback to the department on policy creation and overall operations that affect the lives of Brock student-athletes. The mission of the SALC is to enhance the total student-athlete experience by promoting advocacy, protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a sense of community. Contact Carli Tingstad, Sports Club & Leadership Coordinator at ctingstad@brocku.ca and Erica Wortley, Manager, Events & Partnerships at ewortley@brocku.ca for details.
7.0 Media and Sports Information
7.1 Media/League Responsibility
We have a responsibility to the OUA, U SPORTS and the media to provide results and information regarding all Brock Sports events. The Sports Information Coordinator will provide you with details regarding the procedure expected in your particular sport. Please note, there are league fines associated with not providing the official score sheet to the league, and not phoning event results to the appropriate media by the deadlines required. These fines will be charged back to your team operating account.
7.2 Game Sheets
In events/games where there is not an official scorekeeper, it is the coach’s responsibility to:
1. Obtain a supply of Official Score Sheets from the Manager, Events and Partnerships, and ensure that both coaches involved in the event properly complete the Official Score Sheet.
2. Ensure the Official signs the score sheet, and the proper recording of results is included on the sheet. Return the Official Score Sheet, immediately following the event, to the location as outlined in the information provided by the Manager, Events & Partnerships. This process also needs to be followed in exhibition games, including outside the college/ university circuit, out of province and out of country.
7.3 Media Guidelines
Suggestions for coaches 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 coach. 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 coach and your sport. Coaches 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, “they played great today, didn’t they?”, rather than answering with a simple “yes, thanks”, a better answer would be “I feel like they played well, 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 Stephen Leithwood, our Communications Officer, at 289-214-1899, or 905-688-5550 x4752 or Maryanne St. Denis, the University Content and Communications Manager, at 905-688-5550 x4420, 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. Media 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 student-athletes doesn’t serve any purpose. Give the 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 coach, and your team’s profile. If you have any questions concerning the media, contact Stephen Leithwood at x4752 or Maryanne St. Denis at x4420.
7.4 Brock Sports Website Policies
The Brock Sports website is used to provide information on all Brock varsity sports. Pages for each sport are included, with rosters, statistics (when available), schedules and results. Up-to-date scores and results will be available the same day as the event, if the results are reported to the Sports Information Coordinator.
Scores and competition summaries are posted on the Brock Sports website after Brock events, often within minutes of the end of a competition, allowing our supporters to find immediate scores and information, regardless of where the event is held. Again, results must be called in from road events for this to work, unless the Sports Information Coordinator has made arrangements with the opponent’s sports information office. Photos will also be used on the Brock Sports website to promote team and individual success. It is important to note that no other team website should be used. Anything that is connected to Brock and using the Brock name should run through our gobadgers.ca website.
7.5 Reporting of Scores/Events
It is the responsibility of the head coach to call in results from road competitions, unless the Sports Information Coordinator has made arrangements with the opponent’s sports information office. Timely reporting (within 30 minutes) of results is necessary for media and the Brock Sports website. Please reach out to the Sports Information Coordinator.
7.5.1 Athlete of the Week Selection
All teams will have the ability to win Brock Athlete of the Week (AotW). A selection committee reviews weekly results on Monday mornings to determine AotW selection. Coaches are expected to provide results and highlight performances immediately following the completion of their events to ensure their athletes can be put forward to the selection committee. AotW are chosen with the intent of their performance receiving further provincial or national recognitions. Athletes can be named AotW multiple times within a season. Should a non-OUA or non-U SPORTS athlete be selected for Brock AotW, up to two additional athletes will be selected to be put forward for conference recognitions, separate from the Brock recognition.
7.6 Photography
Stephen Leithwood or a hired photographer will take action photos, headshots and team photos of Brock student-athletes, coaches, staff and teams. These photos will be used on the Brock Sports website and in both oncampus and off-campus publications. Team photos will also be taken for publication use.
All coaches and student-athletes are required to have a head and shoulders shot taken for media purposes usage and website promotions.
Social Media
Website – gobadgers.ca
Instagram - @brockbadgers
Facebook – facebook.com/brockbadgers
Twitter - @BrockBadgers
7.7 Recruit Signings and Announcements
For all recruit signings, please contact Tim Stang, Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance BEFORE posting information on social media.
NOTE: As per Brock University policy, all recruits must be accepted to the University prior to any information being made public.
7.8 Brand
Our role as Brock brand ambassadors contributes to our reputation. In a highly competitive intercollegiate marketplace, our brand’s reputation is a strong consideration for many student-athletes evaluating our institution.
In the Coaches OneDrive ‘Marketing, Communications & Social Media’ folder, you will find marketing materials, brand guides, templates and resources to help you develop Badger and Brock branded content that is consistent and compelling. The Brock Badgers brand identity is comprised of a system of closely related marks including a primary logo, secondary logos, word marks and graphical elements. If you have questions or would like to submit a request for materials, please contact Erica Wortley (ewortley@brocku.ca).
7.9 Crisis Management Plan
While it is never nice to think of the worst-case scenario, we in Brock Sports are particularly vulnerable to crisis by the nature of what we do. Obviously, crisis can range in severity from the use of an ineligible student-athlete or a positive drug test, to a situation involving personal injuries and death.
It is critical that during a crisis there should only be one voice, one spokesperson. Depending on the nature of the crisis, the spokesperson might change, but it is important that a consistent message be delivered. What this means for all of us is to defer to the EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, BROCK SPORTS & RECREATION immediately PRIOR to communicating, even if approached by media and other interested parties. The Executive Director is to ensure that the communication follows accepted practice of expressing regret, responsibility, restitution, and reform.
We will have to work closely to ensure that not only are we working proactively, but we are also perceived as dealing with the problem in a caring, responsible, and professional manner.
Steps or Sequence of Actions
• Before travel ensure that your Team Travel Form is complete and filed with the department
• Before travel, someone else in the travel group is aware of this procedure and has a copy (ideally an assistant coach, trainer, or team leader)
• Local authorities (where incident occurs) are notified through appropriate emergency response in the situation of severe injury or death (911, ambulance, police, etc.)
• Notify the Executive Director. If you cannot reach them, contact the next person on the list below. This person will become the Initial Contact Person (ICP)
1. Melissa Krist | Executive Director
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4350
Cell: 416-420-6477
Email: mkrist@brocku.ca
2. Emily Allan | Associate Director, Athletics
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 3380
Cell: 905-359-3953
Email: eallan@brocku.ca
3. Steve Lidstone | Associate Director, Performance
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 5799
Cell: 289-668-7869
Email: slidstone@brocku.ca
4. Tim Stang | Manager, Varsity Student-Athlete Services & Compliance Services
Work: 905-688-5550 ext.3776
Cell: 289-668-1374
Email: tstang@brocku.ca
5. David Velasco | Manager, Varsity Operations
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 4138
Cell: 289-241-0896
Email: dvelasco@brocku.ca
6. Administrative Assistant
Work: 905-688-5550 ext. 3384
• Ensure the remainder of the team is monitored for shock and taken care of by Lead Assistant Coach (if not present, captain or leadership group).
• Initial Contact Person (ICP) is responsible for notifying FIRST:
7. Matthew Terry
Executive Director, Marketing, Brand and Communications
Work: 905-688-5550, ext. 5888
Email: mterry@brocku.ca
University Marketing and Communications will serve as the focal point contact for media, information and requests to speak on behalf of the institution.
University Marketing and Communications will:
• Provide an internal protocol for receiving and transmitting information.
• Provide letter of condolences from University officials with appropriate signatures.
• Contact:
• Student Development Centre (counselors)
• Campus Ministries
• Campus Police (i.e. flags at half-mast)
• Niagara Regional Police (contact parents or next of kin)
7.10 Further Resources
Brock’s main Emergency Management Plan: brocku.ca/campus-security/wp-content/uploads/sites/80/ BrockEMP-MARCH-2018.pdf
FOR COACHES’ REFERENCE
Manager, Personal Counselling And Student Health Services, Mehroon Kassam: x3054
Campus Police: 905-688-5550 ext 3200.
Niagara Regional Police: 905-688-4111
Sexual Violence Support
Sexual Violence Support & Education Coordinator (Human Rights & Equity Office): Assists with reporting of incidents of sexual violence; helping survivors’ access accommodations and supports; training and education; and investigates breaches of the Sexual Violence Policy. X 6174 svsec@brocku.ca humanrights@brocku.ca
ON-CAMPUS RESOURCES
Campus Safety Services: 905-688-5550
24-hour reporting of incidents of sexual violence, safety planning, crisis intervention, investigations.
24-Hr Emergency: X 3200
Main campus: X 4300
Marilyn Walker School: X 6300
Hamilton Campus: X 3623 security@brocku.ca
brocku.ca/campus-security
Student Wellness & Accessibility Centre: Free personal counselling on-campus.
Crisis: X 3240
Appointments: X 4750 or visit ST 400 brocku.ca/health-wellness-accessibility personalcounselling-services brocku.ca/mental-health
Housing Services: Support for residence students X 3370 res@brocku.ca
Crisis: X 3706 (North Service Desk)
Crisis: X 4311 (South Service Desk) brocku.ca/residence
Student at Risk: Threat assessments for students who may be/have become a threat to themselves or others. X 4041 brocku.ca/student-life/student-affairs/
Student Health Services: Physical, mental, and sexual health services. X 3243
https://brocku.ca/health-wellness-accessibility/studenthealth-services/
OFF-CAMPUS RESOURCES:
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Treatment Program (Niagara):
St. Catharines Hospital
905-378-4647 X 45300
Regional unit for all sexual assault and domestic violence services, sexual assault evidence kit, medical attention, STI and pregnancy testing & prevention. Free Counselling. https://www.niagarahealth.on.ca/site/ sexual-assault-domestic-violence-treatment-program
Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Care Centre (Hamilton):
Juravinski & Hamilton General Hospital
905-521-2100 X 73557
Response team for all sexual assault and domestic violence services, sexual assault evidence kit, medical attention, STI and pregnancy testing & prevention, free counselling.
https://www.hamiltonhealthsciences.ca/areas-of-care/ emergency-care/sexual-assault-domestic-violence
Niagara Region Sexual Assault Centre (CARSA): Free counselling, group therapy, advocacy, legal advice, and resources. 24-Hr Crisis Line: 905-682-4584 niagarasexualassaultcentre.com
Sexual Assault Centre Hamilton (SACHA): Free counselling and advocacy, diverse communities outreach, accompaniments and transportation services.
24-Hr Crisis Line: 905-525-4162 sacha.ca
Niagara Regional Police: Reporting of sexual violence, VICLAS report (anonymous report for crime tracking), Sexual Assault Unit.
24-Hr Emergency: 911
Non-emergencies: 905-688-4111
n-person: 68 Church Street, St. Catharines niagarapolice.ca/en/index.aspx
Hamilton Police Service: Reporting of sexual violence, VICLAS report (anonymous report for crime tracking), Sexual Assault Unit.
24-Hr Emergency: 911
Non-emergencies: 905-546-2929
Sexual Assault Unit: 905-546-4925
In-person: 2825 King Street East, Hamilton hamiltonpolice.on.ca
Victim Services Niagara: 24-hr crisis intervention for victims of crime and trauma, emotional support, referrals for additional community resources.
24-Hr Crisis Line: 905-682-2626 victimservicesniagara.on.ca
City of Hamilton Sexual Health Clinics: Various locations in Hamilton area
https://www.hamilton.ca/people-programs/public-health/ sexual-health/sexual-health-clinics
Distress Centre Niagara: 24-Hr crisis lines for Niagara. St. Catharines/Niagara Falls/Area: 905-688-3711
Port Colborne/Wainfleet/Area: 905-734-1212
Fort Erie/Area: 905-382-0689
Grimsby/West Lincoln/Area: 905-563-6674 distresscentreniagara.com
Crisis Outreach and Support Team: Mental health support and mobile response team.
Niagara 24-Hr: 1-866-550-5205 (Press 1) cmhaniagara.ca/coast-niagara Hamilton 24-Hr: 905-972-8338
coasthamilton.ca
LGBT Youthline: Confidential, non-judgemental, and informed peer support for Ontario LGBTTQQ2SI youth.
Available: Sunday to Friday @ 4:00PM-9:30PM
Hotline: 1-800-268-9688
Text: 647-694-4275
Email: AskUs@YouthLine.ca | youthline.ca
Good 2 Talk: Free, confidential helpline providing professional counselling and information and referrals for mental health, addictions and well-being to postsecondary students.
Ontario 24-Hr Phone: 1-866-925-5454 good2talk.ca
Canadian Mental Health Association - Niagara Branch: Short-term/walk-in counselling, urgent support services, Safe Beds, residential services.
General Inquiries: 905-641-5222
info@cmhaNiagara.ca
cmhaniagara.ca
Canadian Mental Health Association - Hamilton Branch: Counselling, skills training, referrals, advocacy, primary health care clinics.
General Inquiries: 905-641-5222
info@cmhaHamilton.ca mhahamilton.ca
Design for a New Tomorrow: Supporting individuals who have experienced abuse in intimate adult relationships. Individual & group counselling in St. Catharines, West Lincoln, Niagara Falls, Welland, Fort Erie, and Port Colborne. Phone: 905-684-1223
Email: dfnt@dfnt.ca | https://design4newtomorrow.ca/
Ontario Coalition of Rape Crisis Centres: Connects survivors of sexual violence and supporters with Sexual Assault Centres in any region across Ontario. sexualassaultsupport.ca