As members of a sports team at Fredericton High School, we recognize that representing our school is a privilege that comes with significant responsibility. We understand that each of us contributes to the school’s image, and the behaviour we exhibit sets the standard for our institution. The school administration and our dedicated coaches aspire for Fredericton High School to be synonymous with a positive image that elevates our reputation within and beyond our community. This anticipated conduct and attitude are not limited to the sporting arena; they are equally expected in our classrooms, throughout the school premises, and in all aspects of our participation at FHS.
This “Code of Conduct” will serve as the guiding principle for all school representatives, regardless of their capacity or pursuit. The code outlined in this document encompasses aspects of personal behaviour, attitude, courtesy, appearance, academics, sportsmanship, and dedication to the various programs.
General Behaviour
The use of profane or improper language is not acceptable. Extreme verbal outbursts show a lack of self-control and immaturity; these reflect on the school as well as the individual.
There is an expectation that all athletes be courteous, mature, cooperative, and respectful at all times. Individuals should conduct themselves with the knowledge that they, alone, are responsible for their own actions.
In all practice and game situations, athletes are expected to perform to the best of their ability within the context of specific rules of their sport. Sportsmanship and fair play to teammates, opponents, and officials should be at the forefront of the team’s basic philosophy and attitude. Shaking hands with opponents after competition should be a routine procedure.
Team initiation often intimidates new team members by forcing them to perform acts that are deemed offensive, unsafe, humiliating, or in poor taste. For these reasons, there shall be no initiation of new team members at Fredericton High School. Coaches should spend time with their players on this very serious matter.
Academics
Recognizing the priority of academic pursuits during the high school years, students are expected to maintain a strong academic record across all classes. Student-athletes are responsible for aspects such as punctuality, cooperation, general conduct, respect for educators and peers, and a genuine effort in completing all homework assignments, tests, projects, and assessments. If an individual faces challenges in a subject, seeking extra assistance is encouraged. Those who fall short of good academic standing might be temporarily removed from the team until their standing improves, or in some cases, permanently. Decisions will be made on a case-by-case
basis, in consultation with school administration and the respective team’s head coach.
Attendance
Attendance on practice and game days is a fundamental expectation for all student-athletes. If a player anticipates missing a practice or game, they must promptly inform their coach.
On game days, student-athletes must be in attendance for the entire school day. Exceptions to this rule include excused early dismissals, which must be approved by either the coach or the Athletic Director. Any such dismissals will be communicated to the office to ensure proper attendance coding.
Acceptable reasons for excused absences that still allow for game participation include medical appointments, which must be communicated to the office in advance, and school-based activities, which must also be communicated to the office.
Repeated misuse or abuse of the attendance policy will lead to discussions involving the coaching staff, the Athletic Director, and school administration. Appropriate action will be taken based on the outcomes of these discussions.
If a student-athlete misses school time due to illness or other informed absences, they are not eligible to participate in games on the same day.
Each athlete is solely responsible for notifying teachers in advance when missing class time due to a team event. Athletes are accountable for all assignments and material covered during their absence.
It is understood that unique situations may arise. These will be evaluated and handled on a case- by-case basis in consultation with the Athletic Director, coaching staff, and administration.
By adhering to this attendance policy, student-athletes demonstrate their commitment to their team, their school, and their personal growth as responsible individuals.
Employment
Students should be aware of the challenges of fully committing to both school activities and part- time employment. It is important to establish priorities, and if a student chooses to engage in a job that might conflict with practices or games, it is generally understood that this might impact their role as a team member. Those who allocate time to work instead of attending practice cannot anticipate the same level of playing time or participation in competitions.
SubstanceAbuse
Smoking (vaping) adversely affects performance and consequently hinders both individual and team contributions, in addition to its impact on personal health. Smoking is not acceptable behaviour for students who represent FHS. Coaches will enforce this strictly within their teams.
The use of alcohol or illicit substances will not be tolerated under any circumstances and will result in immediate suspension from the team.
Students should be mindful that their representation of the school and team continues even on
social media. Sharing inappropriate content or images related to drugs, alcohol, or explicit material may lead to disciplinary action, including team suspension or removal.
Those opting to participate in overlapping sports should acknowledge that their primary commitment lies with the team currently in season. Engaging in a second sport while the first is ongoing requires permission from the coach of the “in-season” sport. Students, in general, should be cautious not to overextend themselves.
Allocation of Playing Time
The decision on playing time rests with the coach. Coaches strive to ensure equitable opportunities for all players to participate, yet there are instances, particularly during playoffs, where some individuals may have limited or no playing time.
Parent/Player Communication
For any sports-related issues, communication should begin with the coach. Players are expected to speak directly with their coach if they have questions or concerns. Coaches, in turn, are expected to provide regular opportunities for players to discuss issues or provide feedback.
If a concern cannot be resolved through this discussion, the next step is to request a meeting with the Athletic Director. Parents may also be included in this meeting if appropriate.
Fees and Medical Requirements
An athletic fee of $30.00 per athlete will be paid as part of the team fee. This fee is used to offset the cost of running programs and to ensure athletes are insured with the SSNB.
Medical examinations are recommended before athletes participate in their first practice. Concussion protocols must be followed prior to an athlete’s return to play after suffering a concussion. New concussion protocol forms must be filled out prior to return of play. Any athlete receiving a blow to the head must sit out of the game immediately and may not return to play for a minimum of 24 hours.
SSNB Parental Consent
Parental or guardian consent is required for all SSNB participants under 18, and a signed copy of the waiver and release card must accompany any insurance claim submission, as claims without a completed waiver will not be processed. Completed cards are kept with the Athletic Director.
Equipment
Mouth guards and eye protection are highly recommended. Athletes are covered by additional insurance through the SSNB. If there is an injury, parents should refer to the SSNB website for further information.
Transportation
Parents who transport students to athletic events should refer to Policy 512-513 on the ASD-W website. Students cannot drive other students to events outside the City of Fredericton. Nor can they drive other students when leaving directly from the school to the playing facility.