Student - Athlete Handbook

Table of Contents

Welcome
The Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes
Programs and Services
Athletic Department Philosophy
Responsibilities and Expectations of the Student-Athlete
NCAA Academic Information and Policies
Initial Eligibility Standards
Continuing Eligibility Standards
General Academic Information
Academic Services
Student-Athlete Ethics and Expectations
Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference
Athletics Policies
Athletic Training
Athletic Communications
Outreach Programs
Guidelines for Becoming a Scholar/Athlete

Welcome

Dear Student-Athletes:

On behalf of the Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes, I would like to welcome you to Loyola College's Online Student-Athlete Handbook.

The Online Student-Athlete Handbook is a culmination of information that will assist you in becoming an informed scholar-athlete. My hope is that you will refer to this handbook to use as a resource and reference point in your many endeavors and decisions as a student-athlete. Within this handbook you will find valuable information regarding many important academic and athletic policies, as well as the various academic support services made available to you.
 
Again, welcome to the Online Student-Athlete Handbook. I look forward to another successful academic year as I wish each and every student-athlete academic excellence!
 
Bill Heiser,
Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics

The Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes

It is the educational mission of Loyola College to challenge students to learn, lead, and serve in a diverse and changing world. Loyola is devoted not only to the transmission of knowledge but also to the development of mind and character.

Loyola College recognizes that student-athletes participating in intercollegiate athletics face tremendous challenges as they strive to excel academically and athletically. Therefore, Loyola has developed the Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes to aid student-athletes in developing a strong balance between athletics and academics.

The Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes is headed by William Heiser, Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics. Assisting in program development and coordination is Amy Goetzinger, Assistant Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics.

The policies and services provided by the Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes are described as follows:

Mission Statement
The mission of the Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes is to provide quality academic advising and educational support programs, as well as need based services that will enhance the academic progress, facilitate the career development, and encourage the psychosocial growth of every student-athlete.

Goals
To assist every student-athlete in completion of their undergraduate degree at Loyola.
To protect the academic integrity of the College.
To comply with all rules, regulations, and procedures of the College, NCAA, and MAAC.
To promote the athletic eligibility of every student-athlete.

Objectives

Programs and Services

Prospective Student-Athlete Orientation
The purpose of this program is to introduce the prospective student-athlete and parents to the academic community and provide information regarding your rights and responsibilities as a Loyola student-athlete. In addition, this program affords recruits and parents an opportunity to ask questions concerning the form of academic support and type of resources available to student-athletes.

New Student-Athlete Orientation
New student-athletes are invited to an orientation during the first weekend of school where they are introduced to the various members of the College's athletic department. The academic and behavioral expectations of student-athletes are discussed and support services are reviewed.

Academic Advising and Counseling
Academic advising and counseling consists of scheduled appointments with the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics. Such meetings provide the opportunity for student-athletes to discuss their academic goals and develop a strategy for achieving such goals. Also, student-athletes are given an opportunity to share concerns and successes regarding academic performance. Some student-athletes will be required to attend a weekly meeting with the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics.

Academic Planning
Planning a course schedule that will also allow for minimum time conflicts with team obligations can be cumbersome and detrimental to a student-athlete's academic success. During the course registration period staff members from the Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes will be available to assist each student-athlete in seeking options that meet academic progress and athletic performance needs. Student-athletes are required to meet with either their core adviser or major adviser in order to ensure that courses selected meet graduation requirements and NCAA rules governing eligibility. In addition, if a student-athlete chooses to enroll in courses at home over winter and/or summer break, the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics can assist in ensuring that courses taken at the institution of choice will transfer to Loyola.

Academic Monitoring
During each semester, the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics surveys the professors who teach courses in which student-athletes have enrolled. In a questionnaire designed to assess each student-athlete's academic performance, professors are asked to provide feedback on such things as class attendance, assignment completion and grades, and test / quiz scores. In order to address issues of concern, the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics utilizes individual counseling appointments with the student-athlete to discuss the progress report with the student-athlete and develop a plan for addressing reported academic performance deficiencies. Professor progress reports are sent to head coaches in order to assist in providing constructive feedback to the student-athlete.

Structured Study Hall
The Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes recognizes the importance of assisting student-athletes in making the transition from high school to college. One of the most critical periods for initiating success during one's freshmen year. The Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics will assign student-athletes to attend study hall on a prescribed basis. Study hall is intended to help student-athletes maintain a structured study schedule. Study hall will be assigned to student-athletes based on their admission profile and their current academic progress. Those students will be released from study hall obligation upon demonstration of solid academic standing. In addition, upper-class student-athletes who do not achieve the specified grade point average established by the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics and coach will be required to participate in the study hall program to ensure academic success.

Tutorial Support
Tutorial assistance is available to student-athletes. You may request a tutor by contacting the Assistant Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics. The Assistant Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics will review the request and evaluate how to best fulfill the student-athlete's need. Once the request is processed, the student-athlete will be contacted and given the name and contact number to reach the assigned tutor.

Tutorial support is designed to introduce, teach and reinforce appropriate study habits and/or strategies. Its focus is on addressing the individual needs of students who are referred to or request such support. To secure quality instruction, the majority of the tutorial support staff consists of upper-level undergraduates and graduate students recommended by Loyola faculty, as well as working professionals from around the Baltimore area. Tutors are free of financial charges for student-athletes. A tutorial report is sent to each head coach in order that they can assist in providing encouragement and constructive feedback. Student-athletes that miss tutoring appointments may lose the tutoring privilege.

Class Attendance Monitoring
The Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics may have reason to monitor class attendance beyond what is reported in professor progress reports. In such cases, a student-athlete's physical presence in class is checked on a regular basis. Athletic competition obligations may result in your being absent from class. It is the student-athlete's responsibility to inform faculty of those occasions when class will be missed due to team travel. In addition, it is the student-athlete's responsibility to make-up any missed assignments, exams, and/or quizzes when traveling to away competitions. The Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics will facilitate communication with faculty in order that each student-athlete might arrange to turn in required work in advance of or in a timely fashion upon return from team travel.

Career Development Program
The Office of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes relies on the services that exist on campus to assist student-athletes with choosing a major, career exploration, resume writing, interviewing skills, and job placement. For more information regarding career planning, please visit Loyola's Career Development and Placement Center web site.

Athletic Department Philosophy

The Loyola College Athletics Program serves to support the ideals of Loyola College in that it is committed to excellence in education and the pursuit of higher human values through the self-knowledge and social development which come from participation in athletics activity. The Athletics Program is dedicated to the development of the whole person and the integration of values consistent with the Mission Statement of Loyola College.

The Athletics Program strives to offer Loyola students the opportunity to participate in athletics activity at their level of ability and interest - intercollegiate, club, intramural, or recreational. The intercollegiate athletics program seeks to be competitive at the NCAA Division I and the member conference level.

The Athletics Program aims to develop organizational skills, leadership qualities and an appreciation for team effort and community service. The Athletics Program strives to provide student-athletes with the opportunity for academic and social experiences which are comparable to those of the student body as a whole.

The Athletics Program is committed to offering equitable opportunities to all student-athletes and athletics' staff and to advancing the welfare, health, and safety of student-athletes and athletics.

Responsibilities and Expectations of the Student-Athlete
 
The Athletic Department strives to have the program represented by men and women whose conduct reflects credit upon the college, and who are dedicated to the observances of the spirit as well as the letter of all applicable rules. Student-athletes are often a highly visible segment of the campus community. Thus, it is important that you conduct yourself well, whether it is during competition, in the classroom, or within the normal social settings of college life. Your actions not only reflect upon you and your team in the present, but will also determine the attitude people have toward future Loyola College athletes.

At Loyola, athletes are, simply, students. As such, athletes are expected to follow and maintain the academic requirements and standards of Loyola College as defined by the institutional academic policies. You are expected to take ownership of your athletic and academic pursuits. Many resources will be made available to you,but it is always your responsibility to meet the academic and athletic challenges which face you.

You will be asked to remain dedicated, to make sacrifices, and to work hard to enhance your team's performance. These principles are not just applicable on the field of play, but in all areas of life. Loyola College asks that you always demonstrate strong character and commitment.

In order to be eligible to represent Loyola College in intercollegiate athletics, a student-athlete must adhere to all College and NCAA regulations.

Following are some important NCAA bylaws regarding the eligibility requirements for a student-athlete.

Freshman Initial Eligibility Information

NCAA Division I institutions have adopted specific academic requirements that must be met before a student is qualified to practice or compete in intercollegiate athletics and for the receipt of athletically related financial aid as a freshman.

The NCAA Clearinghouse certifies all athletics eligibility for first-year students for colleges at the Division I and II level. Anyone intending to participate in a varsity sport at Loyola College must be registered with and certified as eligible by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse.

To contact the NCAA Clearinghouse:
If you have specific questions about the certification process please write or call or email:

NCAA Clearinghouse web site

NCAA Clearinghouse                         
Post Office Box 4044
Iowa City, Iowa 52243-4044
Phone: (319) 337-1492
Fax: (319) 337-1556

Initial Eligibility Standards
(1996-97 to the Present)

Effective for those student-athletes first entering college institutions on or after August 1, 1996, the NCAA Clearinghouse will define the status of each prospect as one of the following:

Qualifier Requirements: 

Core Courses:

Partial Qualifier (Does not meet standards for qualifier)
Requirements:

Nonqualifier (Does not meet standards for qualifier or partial qualifier) Requirements:

In general, only courses completed in grades nine through twelve can be considered core courses and courses taken following completion of the senior year cannot be used to satisfy core requirements.

A "core course" is defined as a recognized academic course (as opposed to a vocational type course) that offers fundamental components in a specified area of study.

If a decision is made to attend a junior college, and you are a partial or nonqualifier, you must remain there until you graduate and have at least 48 semester hours/72 quarter hours of transferable degree credits acceptable toward a baccalaureate degree program at the certifying Division I institution. In addition, you must also have a 2.000 GPA in these 48/72 transferable credit hours.

If you are a qualifier, you must remain at the junior college for a minimum of two semesters or three quarters (excluding summer), and have at least 24 credits/semester or 36 credits/quarter of transferable degree credits with a 2.000 GPA.

Except for those who do not meet initial eligibility standards, all student-athletes are allowed four years of intercollegiate competition, which must be used in a five-year period. From the first day of enrollment as a full time college student (two-year or four-year), you have five years in which to complete your four years of eligibility. It is not possible to extend this five-year period unless your education is interrupted by military or church related service.

In order to be eligible for each of your four years of intercollegiate competition, the NCAA has established many academic rules and regulations. Eligibility must be established prior to the beginning of each academic year. The Certifying Officer and the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics will continually review your academic progress to be sure you are in compliance with the regulations on the succeeding pages.

You must be in good academic standing and satisfy all the same minimum requirements that non-athletes must meet. In addition, you must also satisfy the NCAA academic standards as set forth in the following pages.

Declaration of Major and Concentration Emphasis
If you have officially declared a major and identified concentration, all hours used toward meeting the satisfactory progress requirements must be applicable toward your designated degree program. In addition, student-athletes are required to declare a major/concentration no later than the beginning of their fifth semester.

Fulfillment of Percentage of Degree Requirements
Student-athletes are required to maintain progress toward the completion of a degree. Therefore, student-athletes are required to complete the following percentage of their degree requirements prior to their fifth, seventh and ninth semesters of enrollment:

Credit Hour Requirements
In order to graduate most majors require that you accumulate a minimum of 40 3-credit courses, however some programs may require more. During each of your four years you should accumulate at least 30 credit hours so that at the end of your last year of eligibility, you have sufficient credits to graduate.

In compliance with NCAA guidelines, student-athletes are required to successfully complete 24 credits from the beginning of one academic year to the beginning of the next academic year. A minimum of 18 credit hours used to satisfy this requirement must have been earned during the regular academic year (e.g., fall and spring semesters). Eligibility will be determined in August of each year and all student-athletes will be declared eligible or ineligible for practice and competition at that time.

Below is a chart indicating the number of completed credits required at the end of each year in order to compete and the suggested number of credits in order to graduate on time.

Cumulative Credit Requirements

Transfer Student-Athletes
If you are a transfer student-athlete, you are immediately responsible for any applicable percentage of degree requirements, declaration of major, and full-time registration status in addition to the other basic transfer requirements.

If you have any questions or concerns regarding your academic eligibility please contact the Coordinator of Academic Affairs for Student-Athletes or the Compliance Coordinator.

Open Courses/Schedule Changes

Open Course Information
Advisers receive a report of open courses the Friday after each registration session.

Open course information will be broadcast two days before each registration date on Channel 56. On each registration day, open course information will be broadcast on Channels 56 and 57. This information is also accessible from the cable TV in your dorm room.

Once registration begins, check Channels 56 and 57 for the most up-to-date information. Be sure to check this information frequently on your assigned registration day. Courses/sections will be closing as students are registering.

Taking a Sixth Course
Students may register for only five courses (exclusive of one and two credit courses as well as all Military Science courses) on the Registration Request Form. Students interested in taking a sixth course must:

Sixth courses are approved approximately three weeks prior to the start of the semester and if approved, it will appear on the web available schedule.

An additional tuition charge will be made for each credit above 18, exclusive of credits for laboratory courses, one- or two-credit courses, or when the major program requires additional credits during a semester.

Academic Scholarship Retention Policy
Students awarded Presidential Scholarships must maintain a term and cumulative GPA of at least 3.000; must complete least 15 degree credits per term; and must receive a grade of "C" (2.000) or higher every subject.

Students awarded Loyola Scholarships must maintain a term and a cumulative GPA of at least 2.500; must also receive a grade of "C" (2.000) or higher in every subject.

Claver Scholarship recipients must maintain the minimum scholarship retention indicated in the original award letter.

All scholarships are awarded for a four year period only.

Federal regulations require that students receive federal financial aid make satisfactory academic progress in accordance with standards set by the College. Students are normally expected to complete their undergraduate degree within eight terms. Loyola College in not obligated to continue aid to students who require more than eight terms to complete degree requirements. Standards for satisfactory progress may be found in the 2001-2002 Undergraduate Catalogue.

General Academic Information

Registration 

Registration Location 
Registration Dates and Procedures 
Preparing Your Schedule

Independent Studies and Internships

Mathematics and Language Placement

Repeat/Replacement Course(s)

Degree Audit Instructions

Information about your Degree Audit
Your core or major adviser has a copy of your individual degree audit report. Freshmen, sophomores, and juniors will receive a computerized printout of their individual degree audit reports to help with the registration process. Seniors will receive a copy of the official degree audit report from the Center for Academic Services and Support in August 2000, which once received should be reviewed, signed and returned to the Center for Academic Services and Support to confirm courses remaining for the degree. This degree audit report is an advising tool not an official degree audit and the College is not bound by any errors which may appear. If you detect any errors, report them to the Center for Academic Services and Support at 410-617-5050.

The degree audit report consists of several sections.

Major: This section lists the courses required to complete the major you have selected.

Minor: This section lists the courses required to complete the minor you have selected. Elective courses in the minor may appear in two places on the audit as electives and as part of the minor but the course counts only once toward the degree.

Core: This section lists the courses required to complete the core.

Electives: This section lists non-departmental (three for each major) and free electives (vary by major). The non-departmental electives are indicated by a # sign. The # indicates that a course can not be taken in the area of study list immediately following the sign. For example, for an EN major, the line for non-departmental electives begins with a #EN, meaning, not an English course.

Courses Not Matched to Requirements: This section lists courses which do not count toward completion of degree requirements or do not match courses in the existing templates.

Courses With Special Grades: This section list courses with "grades of W" or "F" etc. These courses do not count toward completion of degree requirements.

Student Major Designation/Undeclared Majors
It is important to understand that the degree audit reflects courses completed in the general categories listed above. For those freshmen or sophomores who remain undeclared in the major category, the audit will show completed core courses. The remainder of the completed courses will fall into the category of Courses Not Matched to Requirements. Once a student declares a major those courses will appear in the course templates sections of the declared major/minor/elective. Undeclared freshmen or sophomores with a BBA degree designation have been audited using a general business template. It is very important to properly declare a major, minor, or specialization otherwise the report will not accurately reflect what courses are needed to complete degree requirements.

Students are encouraged to visit the Center for Academic Services and Support (HU 176) after April 3, 2000, if they have any problems with their Fall 2000 course schedules. Changes can be made through August 18, 2000 (excluding June 26 - 30, 2000 and July 10 - 14, 2000) in the Center for Academic Services and Support. In addition, students may attend the Drop/Add session during the first week of classes (see dates and times below).

It is better to have schedule problems resolved before classes begin so visit the Center for Academic Services and Support during the above stated time periods. You can make an appointment by calling 410-617-5050.

Drop/Add
All Drop/Add forms must be signed by the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics.

Course Withdrawal
If a student-athlete is contemplating withdrawing or changing a course, s/he must consult with the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics BEFORE taking such action. This step must not be ignored. If a student-athlete falls below the required number of full-time hours necessary to be eligible to participate in varsity athletics, the individual places himself/herself and his/her team in violation of NCAA rules. The Academic Coordinator will evaluate your transcript and encourage you to make an informed decision.

As stated above, a student may change a course or a section of a course, without penalty, during the add/drop period held at the beginning of each semester. Once the add/drop period has concluded, a student must officially withdraw from a course by completing a withdrawal form.

If a student withdraws from a course before the official withdrawal deadline (see the Academic Calendar), the individual will receive a "W" on their permanent record. If a student withdraws from a course after the official withdrawal deadline, that individual will receive a "F" on their permanent record. Please see the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics and/or the Center for Academic Services and Support about withdrawal dates and deadlines.

Good Academic Standing, Probation, Dismissal
In order to be in good academic standing, students are required to have a cumulative QPA of 1.800 at the end of the freshman year. Students can be dismissed or may be placed on academic probation at the end of the first semester of freshman year if their QPA is below 1.800. Students having a cumulative QPA of less than 1.800 at the end of freshman year will be dismissed from the College.

At the end of the first term of the sophomore year and each term thereafter, students are required to have a cumulative QPA of 2.000 in order to be in good academic standing. Students with a cumulative QPA between 1.800 and 1.999 after three terms may be placed on academic probation; those under 1.800 will be dismissed from the College. Students with a cumulative QPA under 2.000 after the fourth term and any term thereafter will be dismissed from the College.

The academic records of each student dismissed for academic deficiency are reviewed by a Committee on Studies if the student requests an interview with a Committee during the time scheduled for appeals. After considering each case, the Committee decides whether an exception should be made and what conditions the student must meet for readmission. Each student is sent a letter regarding the final decision of the Committee.

If a student is reinstated by a Committee, the requirements and expectations that form the terms of the probation will be specified in writing. The student is responsible for abiding by those requirements and meeting those expectations, as well as taking any other steps necessary to achieve the QPA required for good standing by the end of the next semester.

Courses at Other Colleges
Ordinarily, a student enrolled at Loyola College will not be allowed to take core courses at other institutions. Exceptions can only be granted with the written approval of the department of chair in which the core course is offered and the Director of the Center for Academic Services and Support (CASS). Major courses may only be taken at other institutions with the prior written permission of both the chair of the department in which the major course is offered and the Director of CASS. Elective courses taken elsewhere must be approved in advance by the Director of CASS. Only courses at accredited four-year institutions will be approved.

A grade of 2.000 or higher (on a four point scale) must be obtained for any course transferred to Loyola College, and then only the credits are transferred. The grade does not transfer and does not count in the regular Loyola QPA.

(Please remember that it is the responsibility of the student-athlete to follow the college's policies and procedures regarding taking courses at other colleges) mandatory meetings with the Director of Academic Advisement for Student-Athletes.

Summer Session
It is quite common for student-athletes to attend summer sessions in order to make progress towards their degree and/or to be eligible for the ensuing fall semester. All student-athletes may apply no more than 6 semester hours of summer session courses towards the annual requirement of 24 semester hours needed to be eligible for intercollegiate competition. However, a student-athlete may apply for more credits if s/he needs the additional credits to fulfill the degree or grade point average requirements.

Student-athletes should remember that prior approval to take courses at another institution must be granted in order for the summer courses to transfer. Remember that grades given for courses taken at other institutions DO NOT transfer, only the credits. In addition, only those courses with a C grade or better may be transferred.

All student-athletes attending summer sessions at Loyola College must abide by all the rules and regulations pertaining to housing, meals, and academics.

In some instances the Department of Athletics may assist a student-athlete, financially, to attend a summer session. In such cases, prior approval must be given by the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics, Director of Athletics, Assistant Athletic for Compliance and head coach. In addition, while attending summer session, the student-athlete must meet regularly with the Academic Coordinator for Varsity Athletics to discuss his/her progress in the course(s) and to ascertain the need, if any, for tutorial assistance.

Disability Support Services

Information About Graduation

Student-Athlete Ethics and Expectations

Code of Ethics and Conduct

Students at Loyola College are expected to conduct themselves in a manner supportive of the educational mission of the institution. Integrity, respect for the person and property of others, and a commitment to intellectual and personal growth in a diverse population are values deemed fundamental to Loyola and the College community.

Student-athletes are expected to comply with both the Department of Athletics Student-Athlete Ethics and Expectations section and the College's Code of Conduct for students. A copy of the College's code can be found in the Loyola College Student Handbook or the Office of Student Affairs.

Participation in Loyola intercollegiate athletics is a privilege and not a right. To earn that privilege, student-athletes must conduct themselves, on and off the field, as positive role models who exemplify good character.

This section, along with the College's Code of Conduct, covers behavior both on and off the College's campus. If a violation of any of the policies occurs, athletic privileges may be suspended or canceled. This may include practice, competition and athletic scholarship penalties.

All of these codes are designed for the promotion and protection of an environment that encourages reasoned discourse, intellectual honesty, openness to constructive change and respect for the rights of individuals.

Culpability is not diminished for acts in violation of any of rules/codes that are committed in ignorance of the rules/Code or under the influence of alcohol, illegal drugs or improper use of controlled substances.

Infractions of any portion of the Department's code may include, but are not limited to, the following sanctions:

Harassment
At Loyola College student-athletes are part of a culturally and socially diverse community. They are expected to respect the dignity and sensitivity of all members of that community regardless of their national, ethnic or cultural background, sexual orientation, gender, ability or creed.

Actions that intentionally intimidate, humiliate or demean individuals or groups are unacceptable and will not be tolerated. Student-athletes are expected to contribute to an environment that promotes community spirit and develops positive understanding and interactive relationships.

Hazing
Hazing is defined as any action or situation that recklessly or intentionally endangers the mental or physical health or safety of another person for the purpose of initiation, admission into, membership, advancement, or continued good standing in any group or organization. In addition, any requirement by a member or pledge which compels another member or pledge to participate in any activity that is against College policy or Maryland Law is defined as hazing.

Hazing is STRICTLY PROHIBITED and student-athletes found guilty of participating in such acts will be IMMEDIATELY SUSPENDED from all team activities (e.g., practices, competitions). Other sanctions may include immediate dismissal from the team and athletic scholarship penalties.

Hazing behaviors include but are not limited to the following:

Any of these activities if a condition either directly or indirectly, of membership, advancement, or good standing in a College-recognized organization, shall be presumed to be a forced activity, the willingness of an individual to participate in such activity notwithstanding.

Rules of Sportsmanship

Each student-athlete is expected to exhibit good sportsmanlike conduct at all times as a representative of the team, coaches, department, College and community. The following constitutes poor sportsmanship and will not be tolerated:

Violations of the sportsmanship rules may result in sanctions imposed by the Director of Athletics which may include suspension or dismissal from your athletic team.

As a student-athlete, your behavior shall reflect the high moral standards of honor and dignity that characterize participation in intercollegiate athletics.

Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment

Consistent with the College's policy, the Department of Athletics is committed to an environment which is supportive of education as the primary mission and free from all exploitation and intimidation. Rape, sexual assault or sexual harassment will not be tolerated.

Sexual harassment includes any unwelcome sexual advance, request for sexual favor or other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature. Such behavior, even if perceived to be in jest, is unacceptable.

Rape or sexual assault is commonly perceived as a violent and forceful act perpetrated by a stranger. In fact, rape by an acquaintance, known as date rape is far more common and usually involves the use of alcohol.

Typically in date rape or acquaintance rape the two parties are familiar with one another and perhaps even friends. The situation may begin with a date or merely informal socializing at a party, alcohol is consumed and an assorted set of signals sent and received between a male and female, real or perceived. The end result is a sexual encounter that may have been preceded by a series of consentual activities, at least in the mind of one of the partners. However, date rape should never be considered a misunderstanding or a communication problem. "No" means "no" at any time.

Student-athletes are expected to comport themselves in a manner where the rights of others are respected. Inappropriate sexual behavior, including verbal harassment, may result in sanctions by the College, Department of Athletics and civil authorities. Victims of rape, sexual assault or sexual harassment are encouraged to contact the Counseling Center on campus.

Conduct/Alcohol/Drug Policies

Drug Testing Policy

The NCAA conducts random drug tests at all national championship events. A positive test results in immediate ineligibility and the loss of one year of eligibility in all sports.

Consequently, violations of this code of proper conduct may subject you to sanctions from the Loyola Department of Athletics, which would be in addition to any imposed by the College at large.

NCAA Banned Drugs
The following is the list of banned-drug classes:

Sportsmanship
The Constitution of the MAAC within its mission statement cites as a purpose of the Conference that its members shall participate in its athletics program on the basis of mutual trust and confidence and based upon high standards of scholarship and sportsmanship.

Understanding that realization of those goals requires that opponents respect each other and admire earnest effort made fairly in pursuit of victory, the Conference shall require adherence to the standards it has adopted or which are set forth in the respective playing rules. It will require ethical conduct worthy of the educational stature and the standards of its member institutions.

While victory shall be the expected goal of every competitor, defeat is not a disgrace, and the prospect of defeat is never an excuse for unethical behavior or a lack of sportsmanship.

Adherence to these principles will maximize the benefits and enjoyment of intercollegiate competition for all participants, coaches, and spectators.

Policies and Actions in Support of the Sportsmanship Statement

Extra Benefits

As a student-athlete you gain a significant measure of visibility and notoriety from your participation in intercollegiate athletics. As a result, you may be offered benefits by virtue of that involvement which would not generally be provided to other Loyola College students.

The NCAA defines an extra benefit as any special arrangement by an institutional employee or a representative of the College's athletics interests to provide student-athletes, their relatives or friends a benefit not expressly authorized by NCAA rules.

Receipt or acceptance of such an extra benefit will result in immediate loss of eligibility.

Friendships or acquaintanceships with adults established in the recruitment process or after arrival on campus in most instances are a result of being a student-athlete and, thus, receipt of benefits from these individuals by you, your relatives or friends is prohibited by NCAA regulations.

During your enrollment at Loyola College, you may befriend individuals or families in the community who might wish to provide you with a more "home-like' atmosphere. Please be aware that your becoming "friends" with a representative ("athletics booster") and or employee of Loyola College does not change their status as far as the NCAA rules are concerned. For example, the provision of any type of material item (such as a birthday gift, use of a car, meals or lodging, loan of money, Christmas gift, etc.) by such an individual or family to you (or your relatives or friends) could result in a rules violation and jeopardize your eligibility.

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

Receipt of extra benefits will result in immediate loss of your eligibility. If you need assistance or clarification regarding the NCAA's extra benefit you should contact the Compliance Office

Gambling and Bribery

Gambling on the outcome of athletic contests is all too prevalent in our society, and can have a devastating effect on student-athletes if they engage in such activity.

Therefore, you must not become involved in the following activities:

Engaging in any of these activities is a violation of both NCAA and state regulations and will result in automatic and indefinite suspension from participation in any intercollegiate athletic activity.

Any knowledge of student-athletes' involvement in any of the above activities should be reported immediately to the Director of Athletics.

Commitment to Compliance

The compliance program for student-athletes exists to facilitate and ensure compliance with institutional, conference, and NCAA regulations. Guidelines established by these governing bodies provide a framework for fair competition and an appropriate balance between educational and athletic pursuits. Loyola College has a strong commitment to rules compliance. In that regard, you are asked to assist the institution in ensuring compliance.

Specifically, you are requested to:

Prior to practice and competition, you must complete the NCAA Drug-Testing Consent Form and NCAA Student-Athlete Statement. The Compliance Office will administer these forms at team meetings prior to the start of practice activities.

Agents

You will become automatically ineligible for participation under NCAA regulations by entering into a verbal or written agreement with an agent for representation in future professional sports negotiations prior to the completion of your intercollegiate athletic eligibility.

Further, you will become automatically ineligible by accepting transportation or other benefits from any person who wishes to represent you in the marketing of your athletic ability. This prohibition against receipt of benefits includes relatives and friends as well.

Securing advice from a lawyer concerning a professional sports contract is permissible, but the lawyer may not represent you in negotiations for such a contract. A lawyer may not be present during discussions of a contract offer with a professional organization or have any direct contact (e.g., in person, by telephone or by mail) with a professional sports organization on your behalf. A lawyer's presence during such discussions is considered representation by an agent.

If you need assistance or clarification regarding your future in professional sports you should contact your head coach or the Compliance Office.

Athletics Policies

Financial Aid

Loyola College athletic scholarships are monies provided to a student-athlete based on his/her athletic ability. Athletic scholarships are used by coaches in the recruitment process to assist them in obtaining the most qualified student-athletes for the College's Division I programs. Student-athletes should note that their athletic scholarship dollars WILL NOT change (increase or decrease) during the period of the award unless s/he engages in any activity noted under the cancellation and gradation section. A student-athlete's athletic scholarship amount will remain the same for the ENTIRE period of the award and WILL NOT be increased at any time during the period of the award without the approval of the Director of Athletics.

Student-athletes who are receiving an athletic scholarship should note that voluntary withdrawal from a team will result in IMMEDIATE cancellation of their award. In addition, the Department of Athletics takes a student-athlete's request to transfer very seriously. The student-athlete should understand that should s/he decide to transfer, their athletic scholarship will be canceled for the subsequent academic year.

NCAA has specific regulations regarding the receipt of financial aid and the amount of aid a student-athlete may receive. You may be awarded a total financial aid package, including scholarships and educational grants-in-aid administered by Loyola College up to a full grant-in-aid. A full grant-in-aid is financial aid that consists of tuition and fees, room and board and required course-related books for one academic year, summer excluded.

The Office of Financial Aid is responsible for monitoring financial aid records and ensuring that all of your aid does not exceed a full grant-in-aid. Examples of financial aid (also called countable aid) which must be included in a full grant-in-aid limit include, but are not limited to:

Note After the initial academic year in residence a student-athlete can receive earnings from on- or off-campus employment in combination with other financial aid up to the value of a full grant-in-aid plus $2,000.

In addition, examples of financial aid exempted from the full grant-in-aid limits include, but are not limited to:

The Office of Financial Aid will make adjustments to a student-athletes financial aid package to assure compliance with NCAA financial aid limitations.

In addition, student-athletes are required to report financial aid from any source other than the College or persons they are naturally or legally dependent upon. Examples of this outside aid include, but are not limited to:

An athletic grant-in-aid may only be awarded for a period not in excess of one academic year. It may be renewed during the period of eligibility if recommended by the coach and the Director of Athletics or the Director of Financial Aid. Returning student-athletes whose athletically related financial aid will be renewed, graduated or canceled for the ensuing academic year will be notified prior to July 1.

The grant-in-aid cancellation and gradation policies include but are not limited to the following conditions (cancellation or gradation can occur mid-semester):

Also note that your grant-in-aid may not be reduced or canceled during the period of the award on the basis of:

If you feel you have been unjustly treated with regard to the cancellation or reduction of your grant-in-aid, you have the opportunity for a hearing. You should consult the Compliance Office as well as the Director of Financial Aid for information on the hearing procedure.

If you need assistance or clarification regarding your financial aid package you should contact the Office of Financial Aid or the Compliance Office.

Employment

The Department of Athletics does not allow a student-athlete to be employed, in any capacity (volunteer or paid), in his/her sport. In addition, the NCAA has very extensive rules and regulations pertaining to student-athletes having employment during the academic year:

I. Student-athletes, during their first academic year in residence at Loyola College, may receive employment earnings during the semester in combination with other financial aid up to a full-grant-in-aid which includes:

a. on-campus employment (including work-study) in the athletics department and on-campus employment outside the athletics department for which the athletics interests interceded on behalf of the student-athlete; and

b. off-campus employment earnings for which athletics interest interceded on behalf of the student-athlete.

II. Student-athletes, subsequent to their first academic year in residence at Loyola College, may receive employment earnings during the semester in combination with other financial aid up to the value of a full-grant-in-aid plus $2,000 provided:

a. the student-athlete has spent one academic year in residence at Loyola College; and

b. the student-athlete is eligible academically to compete for Loyola College.

In order to ensure compliance with NCAA rules and regulations regarding employment earnings the Department of Athletics has the following rules and procedures for all student-athletes receiving any type of countable aid:

If you need assistance or clarification regarding employment you should contact the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance.

National Letter of Intent

Loyola College adheres to the National Letter of Intent (NLI), an instrument used nationally as a commitment by prospective student-athletes to attend a specific college or university.

If you have signed an NLI you are required to attend Loyola College for one academic year in order to fulfill the terms of the Letter. If you have signed and decide to enroll in another institution participating in the NLI Program prior to the completion of one academic year at Loyola College, you may not represent that institution in intercollegiate athletic completion until you have been in residence at that institution for two calendar years.

In addition, you will not be eligible for more than two seasons of intercollegiate competition in any sport unless you and Loyola College mutually agree to release each other from any obligations of the NLI. A student-athlete receiving a formal release will not be eligible for competition at the second institution during the first academic year of residence and will lose one season of competition.

These restrictions will not apply if you have failed to meet the requirements for admissions to Loyola College, if you attend Loyola College for at least one academic year; if you graduate from junior college after having signed a NLI while in high school; if you do not attend any institution for the next academic year after signing an NLI; if you serve on active duty with the U.S. armed forces or on official church mission for at least 18 months; or if you are a nonqualifier as determined by the NCAA Clearinghouse.

You must have received, in writing, an award for athletic financial aid at the time of signing your NLI for it to be valid. In addition, you may only sign one valid NLI and remember you are signing with the institution and not a particular sport or individual (coach).

NCAA Student-Athlete Assistance Fund

The NCAA provides each member institution with a pool of funds to assist student-athletes who receive a Pell Grant or who are receiving an athletic grant and have a demonstrated unmet financial need. The Pell Grant is a federal grant awarded by the Office of Financial Aid to students based upon their family's financial need. Please check your financial aid package to see if you qualify for the Assistance Fund.

The fund may be used for several purposes including:

If you need assistance or clarification regarding the Assistance Fund you should contact the Compliance Office.

Athletic Training

The athletic training room provides evaluation, prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic-related injuries and illnesses to student-athletes. The athletic training room staff provides extensive services to intercollegiate athletes, club sport athletes, intramural participants, and the campus community. All intercollegiate athletes must have a complete physical by a physician prior to practicing or competing in intercollegiate athletics. You must also submit an Intercollegiate Athletics Health Information booklet to the athletic training room staff. Orthopedic physicians are available through the athletic training room for consultation and diagnosis.

Insurance Information

All student-athletes are required to furnish their insurance information to the athletic training staff. In the event of required medical services, the student-athletes insurance is the primary insurance. Any balances of bills not covered by the student-athletes primary insurance will be covered by the College insurance policy. Only athletic-related injuries, illnesses and conditions that occur during the course of a Loyola College-sponsored athletic event will be covered by the College's insurance policy. Preexisting conditions and non-athletic-related injuries will NOT be covered by Loyola College.

An information sheet must be filled out at the time of your physical regarding insurance information and other pertinent information. An insurance claim form must be filled out for any injury that might require outside assistance (x-rays, MRI, emergency room visit, etc.). If an insurance claim is not filled out for an athletic injury, we cannot be held responsible for the insurance coverage.

We have an excess policy; bills must be submitted to the family's insurance first and then the remaining balance will go to our insurance company with copies of the explanation of benefits and the bill.

Injury Reporting

All student-athletes must report all injuries to a certified athletic trainer within a 24-hour period or as soon as they get back to campus. If injuries are not reported, we cannot be held responsible for treatment or insurance coverage.

All non-emergency injuries must go through the Athletic Training department before seeking outside medical attention. Only those true emergencies may seek medical attention before coming to the Athletic Training department. We reserve the right to seek medical advice from out Team Physician before allowing the student-athlete to return.

All treatments and doctor's appointments will be handled under the direction of the Athletic Training department. If you suggest any doctor or treatment facility that is not approved by the Loyola College Athletic Training department, you or your family will be responsible for all costs. All subsequent injuries will require an insurance form to be completed.

Physician's Clinic

For a student-athlete to have an appointment with the doctor, s/he must be seen by one of the sports medicine staff personnel first, and then a decision will be made as to whether the student-athlete needs to see the doctor.

The clinic is held once a week, sometimes twice. The times and days of the week the clinic will be held depends on the patient load and schedule for the week.

There will be NO walk-in appointments.

Treatment/Rehabilitation

The responsibility for showing up and receiving treatments or rehabilitation is the student-athlete's. If you need to be excused, you must talk to an athletic training staff member personally. We want to do everything we can to have you healthy and able to compete at 100%, but your cooperation is an absolute MUST.

The athletic training staff and physicians will decide when to begin treatments and when to discontinue treatments or rehabilitation of all injuries. The athletic training staff and physicians will have the sole decision on a student-athlete's return to competition.

Strength and Conditioning

The Loyola Athletics weight room is located in the lower level of the DeChiaro College Center. All student-athletes must strictly adhere to the following policies. Questions and concerns should be directed to the your head coach or an athletics administrator.

Nutritional Supplement Creatine Monohydrate

Although tests have proven to be inconclusive, the use of the nutritional supplement Creatine Monohydrate is believed to cause various health problems including muscular dysfunction, kidney malfunctions and potentially damaging affects to other vital organs.

It is the position of the Loyola College Athletics Department that the use of Creatine Monohydrate is potentially dangerous and may not be beneficial for an individual interested in developing functional muscle strength. As a result, the Athletics Department does not condone the use of Creatine Monohydrate supplementation as a training adjunct or other supplements.

Athletic Communications

Media Policies

The Office of Athletic Communications serves as the liaison between Loyola Athletics and the public (media, fans and scouts). The full-time staff is comprised of the Director of Athletic Communications, the assistant director, and the athletic communications intern.

The Office of Athletic Communications is responsible for the promotion and publicity of all 16-varsity sports. Media guides and weekly releases are produced and sent to media outlets on a local, regional, and national level to foster and promote relationships between Loyola College and those outlets. In addition, the Athletic Department website is a major tool in providing not only the media, but alumni, parents, and fans, with the latest news and notes surrounding Loyola Athletics. The focus is to create public awareness and community support of the athletic department, while enhancing the image of the College and its student-athletes.

The responsibilities of the Loyola College student-athlete do not end with practice and competitions however. Additionally, student-athletes will be required to make public appearances, attend community service projects as well as conduct interviews with requesting media. These appearances and interviews are not to be arranged by the student-athlete or members of the family unless first cleared by the Office of Athletic Communications. A time, which is convenient for both the student-athlete and the media, will be arranged.

At no time is a student-athlete expected to miss class or practice time because of an interview. Also remember that you are representing yourself and Loyola Athletics when conducting an interview. Punctuality and proper attire are vital.

It is preferred that interviews be conducted in a one-on-one fashion either after a practice or contest. Interviews are conducted either on the practice field, at the site of the contest, or in the Office of Athletic Communications. If a phone interview is necessary, arrangements must be made through the Office of Athletic Communications. Dorm and apartment numbers WILL NOT be made available to the media unless proper arrangements have been made between the student-athlete, coach, and the Office of Athletic Communications. If you are contacted by a media member at your residence, you are to inform the Office of Athletic Communications immediately at x2777.

Confidentiality is of the utmost importance when team issues are involved. Another student-athletes misfortune is not for comment by yourself or other student-athletes.

Our office is always open to student-athletes. Reporters are always looking for human-interest stories on student-athletes. Please do not hesitate to contact our office with potential story ideas.

Buckley Amendment (Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974) Form

The completion of this form allows Loyola College to release information about student-athletes to third parties (e.g., media, honors programs) for public relations purposes.

Greyhounds in the Community

Outreach Programs
Throughout the year, student-athletes from Loyola College participate in community outreach programs. All student-athletes are invited to attend, regardless of year and/or sport. These programs are extremely successful and continue to provide Loyola student-athletes a way to give back to their community.

Many of the outreach programs involve visiting local elementary schools and senior high schools in the area. Topics discussed include sportsmanship, academics, athletics, time-management and dealing with peer pressure. Those student-athletes who have participated in outreach events have experienced the joy and satisfaction one receives from working with the youth in our community.

Any student interested in participating in an outreach activity should contact the Center for Values and Services. For more information about student-athletes participating in community service activities, contact the Student-Athlete Advisory Council.

Loyola College Quick Facts

Location: Baltimore, MD 21210
Founded: 1852
Enrollment: 3,200 men and women undergraduates
Nickname: Greyhounds
Colors: Green and Grey
Affiliations: NCAA Division I, ECAC, Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC)

Guidelines for Becoming a Scholar/Athlete
(for Learning the Most from Courses and Earning a Good GPA)

DURING THE FIRST WEEK OF EVERY COURSE, make an appointment to meet with the instructor of that course, and:

BEFORE TIME FOR MID-TERM TEST, i.e., about 3-4 weeks into most courses, drop by:

a) to ask instructor how he/she thinks you are progressing; and
b) to ask her/his {recommendations, suggestions} for how you might get more from the course.

AFTER YOUR MID-TERM TEST (or FIRST TEST) HAS BEEN RETURNED, drop by to:

a) ask the instructor if he/she thinks your performance on the test indicated that you need to change your way of studying or preparing for a test;
b) ask for recommendations as to how you might prepare better for future tests.

ABOUT 2-3 WEEKS BEFORE FINAL EXAM, drop by to:

a) ask the instructor how he/she thinks you are progressing; and
b) ask for recommendations as to how you might prepare best for the final exam.

Every year the NCAA awards Post-Graduate Fellowships in Football, Basketball, and Other Sports (as a group), for seniors who have excelled on the field or court, and who have maintained good academic standing across their college career.

In order to qualify for nomination by Loyola College to the NCAA for an award, a scholar/athlete must have solid credentials in her/his sport(s), and must have a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.0. However, our last NCAA winner, Jeff Nattans,'89AC (soccer and basketball), who used his NCAA Fellowship to earn an MBA from the Harvard Business School, had a GPA of 3.9. Jeff's Harvard degree, built on a strong Loyola foundation, has propelled him to a very prosperous career (and Jeff was also inducted into Loyola's Athletic Hall of Fame in 1998).

Working hard from the beginning - in the classroom as well as on the court/field - can pay off quite handsomely after one's Loyola experience is long past. Start planning now to achieve your best in both academic and athletic arenas, so that whatever career you choose will enable you to realize your loftiest goals.

Following the suggestions given on the reverse side of this page could help with the academic half of the equation, and following the suggestions of your coaches can complete the athletic half of that equation!