ATHLETIC PHILOSOPHY AND OBJECTIVES

In the Athens Independent School District, the program of competitive athletics should be comprehensive, diversified, and flexible to meet individual needs, interests, and abilities of youngsters. It should comprise an integral and vital part of the District’s total educational program. Whenever and wherever competitive athletics are planned or played, it is mandatory that definite rules, regulations, and procedures be developed and implemented for the proper conduct of these activities. It is also essential that these procedures be commensurate with school district policies and in accordance with the accepted and established philosophy of education that prevails in the District. It is with full consideration and recognition of the important role that the competitive athletics should have in the total school curriculum that this handbook has been developed.

It is therefore, the goal of the athletic program to offer this opportunity of participation to every student who has the ability and desire to do so; however, no student is obligated to take part in athletics, nor is this required for graduation. It is stressed that this is a privilege, not a right. Since it is a PRIVILEDGE, the coach has authority to revoke the privilege when rules are not complied with. The special standards for athletes will provide the security of authority which youth need.

The combination of sports and academics can be a tremendous experience in a young person’s life. A broad and sound sports program for all students can provide invaluable experiences for the participants.

It is important to see athletics as a part of the total educational program. It should both complement and contribute to the overall educational process. For many students it is the most effective climate for learning the invaluable, lessons of personal integrity, determination, self-confidence, proper mental attitude, individual and group responsibilities and the, desire to achieve high goals which should be the basic objectives of any sound educational system.

CODE OF ATHLETICS

Purpose of the Code of Athletics

The code of ethics should be developed to protect and promote the best interest of the high school athletic program. In the coaching profession, the primary purpose of a code of ethics is to clarify and distinguish ethical and approved professional practices from those which are detrimental and harmful. Applied to the coaching profession, ethics will help develop a standard of character in which the public has trust and confidence. The success of the principles and standards emphasized in the code is dependent upon those for whom they have been prepared, the coaches of Athens ISD.