Tms lower school (grades 2 to 6) athletics guide

TMS LOWER SCHOOL (GRADES 2 TO 6) ATHLETICS GUIDE 011/2016

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TMS Athletics Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION I SECTION II SECTION III SECTION IV SECTION V SECTION VI

SECTION VII SECTION VIII SECTION IX SECTION X

SECTION XI

TMS Athletics Mission Statement Benefits of Involvement in Co-Curricular Athletics Facilities Co-curricular Athletics List of Teams and Activities TMS Athletics Philosophy Program Goals Level of Competition Athletes’ Code of Conduct Responsibilities of the Student-Athlete What Coaches Expect of Players What Players Can Expect of Coaches The Role of Parents in Student Athletics What Parents Can Expect from Coaches Information to be Provided to Parents The School’s Expectations of Parents Discussing Concerns with Coaches Team Selection Playing Time Parent Conferences Health, Transportation and Expenses Medical Form Health Services and Injury Treatment Transportation Expenses Appendix Informed Consent to Participate in Co-Curricular Athletics (Form)

SECTION I TMS ATHLETICS MISSION STATEMENT The Athletic Program at TMS allows students to concentrate on their academic success while exploring a variety of intra-mural and inter-school athletic activities in order to involve themselves in both the academic and social environment of the School. Consistent with the School’s stated mission, the coaches and student-athletes strive to maintain the highest standards of athletic achievement, personal growth and social responsibility. The Athletic Program is

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committed to the principles, mission and guidelines set forth by TMS, and the leagues of which we are members.

Participate in a program that supports the development and pursuit of excellence Develop character values, such as leadership, discipline, teamwork, sportsmanship and integrity among individuals and team members Provide a vehicle to bring about school spirit, pride and enthusiasm of our participants and spectators Benefits of Involvement in Co-Curricular Athletics Learn individual and team goal setting Learn to prioritize Learn to accept appropriate constructive criticism Learn to be persistent and endure challenges/obstacles Learn to deal with wins and losses in a positive way Learn to deal with pressure Learn how to prepare mentally and physically for practices and games Develop a positive attitude Develop self-discipline Develop time-management skills Develop teamwork skills Develop leadership skills Discover strengths and weaknesses Improve physical conditioning Have fun!

SECTION II FACILITIES TMS Athletics will use various TMS and community-maintained facilities in order to facilitate each team’s practices and games. The particular facilities used will depend on the sport and the facility availability.

SECTION III CO-CURRICULAR ATHLETIC ACTIVITIES LIST OF TEAMS AND ACTIVITIES Students participate at the Under 20, Under 16, 14, Under 12, Under 10 and Under 8 levels where there is sufficient interest. These teams will run and additional activities may be included where there is interest and coaching expertise.

SCHOOL YEAR

U8

U10

U12

YEAR OF BIRTH ELEMENTARY JUNIOR (enrolled in (High grade 8 & School

SENIOR (High School

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2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017

2006 2007 2008 2009

2004 2005 2006 2007

2002 2003 2004 2005

under) 1999 2000 2001 2002

U16) 1998 1999 2000 2001

U20) 1994 1995 1996 1997

The Lower School will be offering the following sports in the upcoming school year.

No athlete is allowed to play on more than 4 teams per season.

Elementary Fall Sports: Under 12 and Under 10 Co-Ed Cross- Country Under 12 Co-Ed Indoor Soccer Under 10 Co-Ed Indoor Soccer

Elementary Winter Sports: Under 10 Co-Ed Basketball Under 12 Co-Ed Basketball Elementary Bowling Under 12 Co-Ed Badminton Under 12 Ball Hockey Under 10 Ball Hockey

Elementary Spring Sports: Under 10 Co-Ed Track and Field Under 12 Co-Ed Track and Field Under 10 Co-Ed Outdoor Soccer Under 12 Co-Ed Outdoor Soccer

SECTION IV TMS ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY The focus is to learn overall skills and improve sport specific skills. Programs focus on teaching the fundamentals of the games, skill development, responsibility and sportsmanship, and building an interest in maintaining a sound mind and body. Maximum participation for all is a goal. Nevertheless, as students grow older, participation becomes more competitive and while adequate playing time for team members is strongly encouraged, the amount of playing time is influenced primarily by skill level. Other factors such as sportsmanship, attendance of practice, effort during practice sessions, and motivation to succeed are also important factors.

Program goals include: Further developing levels of skill, speed, aerobic training, strength and flexibility Further developing mental strategies for effective and efficient play Learning to cope with the physical and mental challenges of competition

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Further developing all fundamental movement skills; teaching general, overall sports skills Developing strength using exercises that incorporate the student’s own body weight Further developing endurance through games and drills Further developing flexibility through exercises Further developing speed by using specific activities that focus on agility, quickness, and change of direction during the practice Structuring competition to address differences in training age and abilities Introducing time-management skills related to sport involvement Level of Competition: The Lower School students will compete within the Small Schools Athletic Federation (SSAF) http://www.ssaf.ca/. While it is our intention to involve as many students as possible, the coach responsible for each team will determine the number and size of his or her team. Our coaches decide on roster sizes within the guidelines established by the leagues. As such, “cuts” may have to be made, although every effort will be made to provide all interested students with an opportunity to play.

SECTION V ATHLETE CODE OF CONDUCT It should be considered a privilege to represent our School in an athletic competition. Therefore, certain behavioural expectations come with this selection. This Code of Conduct for Athletes will inform student-athletes and their families of these expectations.

The student-athletes who participate in co-curricular athletics should recognize that they have an obligation to themselves, their teammates and the school community to strive to develop excellence and not accept mediocrity. There is no place in athletics for students who will not discipline their minds and bodies for rigorous competition. It is hoped that participation in the program will enable students to value competition, instill self-discipline and self-control, and to exercise sportsmanship and mature judgment.

Student-athletes have the responsibility to: Make Grace and Courtesy their highest priority Make academic achievement their next highest priority Attend all scheduled practices and games. In the event of an emergency situation which prohibits attendance, it is the student-athlete’s responsibility to communicate this information to the coach and to understand that failure to attend a practice/s may result in reduced playing time or removal from the team Notify teachers ahead of time, if they will be missing classes for games or tournaments and catch up on any missed tests or assignments Display good sportsmanship, and exhibit fair play and proper conduct on and off the playing surface Treat teammates, opponents, coaches and officials with respect both in victory and defeat, and encourage other athletes to do the same

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Respect the integrity and judgment of other student-athletes, coaches or officials What do the coaches expect from their players?

Grace and Courtesy in all interactions with others Maintain academic success Be committed to the team for the entire season Attend all practices and games Arrive on time to all practices and games Be “coachable” (listen, focus, apply what is taught, give 100 per cent) Talk to the coach if there is a problem Treat teammates with respect Trust the coach’s experience, knowledge of the game, and ability to make decisions What can players expect from their coaches?

Make it fun to participate Lead and motivate players to bring out the best in themselves Self respect and respect for their teammates Be prepared for practices and games Teach fundamentals and strategies Be approachable and willing to talk Care about players beyond the sport Make the season rewarding and fulfilling regardless of the team’s record Communicate clearly and provide constructive criticism

SECTION VI THE ROLE OF PARENTS IN STUDENT ATHLETICS This Athletic Guide is presented to you because your son or daughter has indicated a desire to participate in our co-curricular athletic program. Your family’s interest in and support of our athletic program is welcomed and appreciated. We are most interested and concerned with each student’s personal development through athletics. It is our hope and belief that the athletic program at TMS helps to meet these goals.

Parents can expect the following from coaches: Information: Practice schedules, game schedules, addresses of tournaments, arrival times back from games, etc.

The coach will ensure a safe environment The coach will promote good sportsmanship The coach will be positive with the student-athletes and will help build confidence The coach will be a good role model for the student-athletes The coach will abide by the policies and principles of the TMS Athletics Guide

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Parents are expected to: Model Grace and Courtesy at all time Understand the importance of their child’s commitment to practices and games Ensure the coach is notified of any scheduling conflicts well in advance Leave coaching decisions up to the coach (positions, strategies, playing time, etc.)

Encourage their children to talk to the coach first if they have a problem Support the coach’s techniques, drills, expectations and directives, and address any concerns or provide any suggestions in a meeting with the coach afterward Schedule appointments that are convenient to both parties to discuss concerns (not during or immediately after practices or games) Communicate with the coach in a civil manner Exercise good sportsmanship Know that coaches sometimes make mistakes, but they are working hard for the success of the team and the individuals of that team Provide timely transportation to and from practices and games Abide by the policies and principles of the TMS Athletics Guide Sign and return the “Informed Consent to Participate in Co-Curricular Athletics” form prior to the student trying out for a school team.

SECTION VII TEAM SELECTION Each coach is responsible for his or her team selection. The head coach establishes criteria for selection with input from his or her assistants and the Athletic Director. This may involve a number of variables including coach-ability, skill, attitude, attendance and leadership. Team selection, practices, and decisions regarding game situations are the responsibility of the coaching staff.

The SSAF is highly competitive. Coaches try to do the very best they can in keeping the most talented student-athletes, filling positions for play, and placing the student-athlete in the proper role. Participation on a community team does not guarantee any player a spot on a school team. While players can gain valuable experience playing outside the school athletic program, neither parents nor should students count on this type of participation to "guarantee" a spot on a school team.

SECTION VIII PLAYING TIME Playing time is something that is dependent on skill and judgment and is earned during practice. A coach must have confidence that a player they put into a game can function at that level of competition. This means the player must have demonstrated athletic competence, an understanding of the "game plan", and the required level of conditioning necessary to perform. It is the coach’s right to

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make these decisions. Our program structure allows for growth of the student, and the opportunity to demonstrate he or she has earned the right to play.

Starting positions and playing time are not guaranteed to anyone. Each team member is valuable to the team’s overall progress. Some members may play a great deal, while others may not. Athletes should set personal goals to achieve throughout the season. Players can learn many valuable lessons by being a member of a team, regardless of time spent in actual competition. Among them are the following: citizenship, sportsmanship, appreciating good play by an opponent, working together for a common goal, responsibility, commitment, loyalty, placing team above oneself, learning to accept instruction and criticism, respect for others, winning and losing with dignity, self-control, and being responsible for one’s own actions.

SECTION IX PARENT CONFERENCES Occasionally, there are situations that require a conference between the coach and the parent. These are encouraged as it is important that both parties involved have a clear understanding of the other’s position which is ultimately in support of the player, team and School. When these conferences are necessary, the following procedure should be followed to help promote a resolution of the issue of concern.

If parents have a concern regarding TMS Athletics they should contact the appropriate Coach. Please contact the appropriate coach to set up a meeting time to discuss your concern.

Should you feel further discussions are needed please contact the appropriate Athletic Director listed below.

LOWER SCHOOL ATHLETICS Mr. David Cordner Athletic Director (905) 889-6882 ext. 2372 dcordner@tmsschool.ca

SECTION X HEALTH, TRANSPORTATION & EXPENSES Medical Form Each student who is selected to a team has to properly complete a medical form and submit it to the coach. The student is unable to participate in any games before submitting this form.

Health Services and Injury Treatment The School Nurse is available at the Bayview Campus from 8:30 am until

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4:00 pm (Monday to Friday). The School Nurse can examine all minor injuries and ailments. In the event of an emergency, an ambulance will be called and a staff member will be assigned to accompany the student to the hospital. The School Nurse or coach will then contact the parents to inform them of the situation.

TMS distributes medical questionnaires to parents on an annual basis. These questionnaires are completed by the parents of our student-athletes and returned to the Athletic Director and the School Nurse. Included in the booklet are the names, dates of birth, addresses, telephone numbers, parent contact information, emergency contact numbers, and important medical information about each team member. The coaches carry this information with them throughout the season in the event of an injury or illness to one of their team members.

In the event that an injury occurs during a practice or game situation, coaches must complete an Injury Report Form and submit it to the Athletic Director for review, and then submit it to the Main Office.

WARNING: Participation in athletics does involve some risks. By volunteering to participate in a school-sponsored athletic activity, a student and his/her parents acknowledge the potential risk for physical injury to occur.

Transportation In most cases, bussing is provided for all students to and from games. If for any reason, a parent chooses to transport his or her child to or from a game, the coach must be informed well in advance. A coach cannot wait for parents to arrive to pick up their child if the bus has arrived and is waiting to leave with the remaining members of the team; therefore all parents must be timely and considerate of all other students, parents and coaches.

Expenses Although TMS tries to cover all registration fees, transportation fees, tournament fees, uniforms, equipment, and coaches’ expenses, there are times when additional funds might be needed. These situations include but are not limited to ice rentals, green fees, personalized equipment required because of personal hygiene, and/or meals. The School asks that you provide your child with the required amount by the due date provided. Should there be any questions or concerns, please contact the appropriate Athletic Director for further clarification.

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SECTION XI

APPENDIX

Informed Consent to Participate in Co-Curricular Athletics Your child has expressed an interest in playing for a TMS athletic team.

THIS FORM MUST BE READ AND SIGNED BY EACH STUDENT WHO WISHES TO PARTICIPATE AND BY HIS/HER PARENT OR GUARDIAN. ELEMENTS OF RISK Participation in co-curricular athletics involves certain elements of risk. Accidents may occur while participating in these activities. These accidents may cause injury which may be severe, permanently disabling, or even fatal. Examples of the type of accident of which one is at risk while participating in these activities include (but are not limited to): 1. Injury due to usual risk of traveling by either school-provided or private transportation to and from the activity.

2. Injury due to a student athlete falling, colliding with objects or other participants, or otherwise becoming hurt while engaged in the activity.

3. Injury due to the inherent nature of the activity.

These accidents may result from the nature of the activity and can occur without any fault on either part of the student, or the School or its employees or agents, or the facility where the event is taking place. By choosing to participate in the activity, you are assuming the risk of an accident occurring. The chance of an accident occurring can be reduced by carefully following instructions at all times while engaged in the activity. If you choose to participate, you must understand that you will bear the risk for any accident that might occur.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT We have read the above; we understand that in participating in the cocurricular athletics, we are assuming the risks associated with doing so. We agree that the School or its employees, servants or agents shall not be liable for any injury to my child or loss or damage to personal property arising from, or in any way resulting from participation in school athletic events. We have read and understand the TMS School Athletics Guide and agree to conduct ourselves in a manner that demonstrates the established standards outlined in the TMS School Athletics Guide.

Signature of Student: _______________________________

Date: ______________

Signature of Parent/Guardian: ______________________

Date: ______________

011/2016

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