Message from the Vice President/Director of AthleticsIntercollegiate Athletic Department Mission StatementUniversity Core ValuesNCAA Division II Philosophy StatementSunshine State Conference History and Statement of PurposeAssistance DirectoryAthletic Department Directory

University Student Code of ConductGrievances or ComplaintsDepartment Social Media Statement

Academic LifeClass AttendanceMissed Class Time Due to Team TravelNotification of Missed ClassThe Center for Academic Vision & Excellence (CAVE)Pre-Registration ProceduresAdvisingTextbook / Book Voucher PolicyDropping & Adding CoursesAcademic MonitoringAcademic Probation

Academic EligibilityProgress Toward DegreeRemedial, Tutorial, or Non-Credit CoursesIncomplete GradesRepeated CoursesMissed Term ExceptionSaint Leo University Bridge ProgramPractice & Playing SeasonCountable Athletically Related Activity (CARA)Countable vs. Non-CountablePractice Logs

NCAA Rules & Regulations Statement10 Semesters / Season of EligibilityFull-Time EnrollmentDeclaration of MajorEligibility for Practice & CompetitionAgents & AmateurismMedical Hardship WaiverOutside CompetitionReporting Knowledge of ViolationsGamblingTobacco & Tobacco ProductsCrowdfundingPromotional ActivityRecruiting Student HostStudent Host ARMS Workflow

Student-Athlete EmploymentCamp / Clinic EmploymentStudent-Athlete Local Sports Club EmploymentRules EducationCompliance Matters Student-Athlete Newsletter

Institutional Financial AidAthletic Grant-In-AidUniversity Charges not Paid by AthleticsStudent-Athlete Summer School AwardsOutside Sources of AidScholarship Renewal, Graduation or CancellationExtra BenefitsAthletic Scholarship Appeals Policy

Sports Medicine StatementStudent-Athlete ResponsibilityAthletic Training RoomPractice CoverageMedical Clearance - Prior to PracticeWalk-On / TryoutMedical Services & CareTreatmentReporting InjuriesRole of PhysicianConcussion ManagementHeat Illness ManagementEmergencies on the RoadNon-Athletic Department Medical Emergencies

Athletics Communication StatementMedia Student-AthletesPrivacyGame Day MusicPhotographyPhoto DayStatistics - Challenge of Student-Athlete or ParentSocial Networking Policy

Strength & Conditioning Mission StatementCore Values & Objectives

Academic Honors

NCAA Transfer LegislationIntra-Conference Transfer PolicyRequesting Permission to Contact

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Dear student-athletes,

Welcome, or in many cases, welcome back. We have over 175 new student-athletes this year and we arelooking forward to a great year academically and athletically. It is our goal to provide you with the beststudent-athlete experience during your time as a Saint Leo Lion.

To this end, we want to make sure every student-athlete is eligible to compete, remains in good standingduring their season and makes academic progress each semester. We have a great compliance staff as wellas a great coaching staff to help keep everyone on track and moving toward the goal of a college diploma.You will be a representative of Saint Leo University, our department and your team at all times. With thiscomes a responsibility to demonstrate our core values of respect and integrity at all times. Being a student-athlete is not a right, but a privilege which we hope each of you will value. The chance to play collegiatesports is a special one and we hope you will make the most of this great opportunity. You must be aware ofall the NCAA rules, as well as the academic policies. The NCAA does not allow ignorance of the rules as anexcuse when violations occur or requirements are not met.

This handbook is meant to serve as a guide and overview of the Saint Leo Department of Athletics. It doesnot cover every minute detail but provides guidelines and where you can find assistance. Your continuedparticipation as a student-athlete requires you to comply with the athletic department policies included inthis handbook. You will also need to follow all of the University’s academic and student conduct policies.Team accomplishments and individual success are our goals. The entire Department of Athletics staffsupports and encourages you in your collegiate experience at Saint Leo. As a team, we are looking to placehigh in the Learfield Director’s Cup point standings, and in the Sunshine State Conference’s Mayor Cupstandings for the best overall program. We hope you will embrace this philosophy and reach your peakperformance as a student-athlete during your time at Saint Leo.

Again, welcome or welcome back, to Saint Leo University. We are thrilled we get the opportunity to share inthis exciting and important time of your life.

Francis X. ReidyVice President / Director of Athletics

The Department of Athletics at Saint Leo University seeks to preserve and enhance the mission of theUniversity, its culture and values based environment by providing a challenging, diverse, and continuallyimproving intercollegiate athletic program. The Saint Leo University Department of Athletics provides for theemotional, physical and social well-being and development of the student-athlete.

It nurtures individual growth and progress by offering opportunities for the development of leadership, skillsand talents on the field, as well success in the classroom. Intercollegiate athletics enhances the universityexperience for both the participant and the observer. The Department of Athletics strives to encourage unitywithin the Saint Leo University community by providing a program of excellence, honor and integrity.

Saint Leo University is an educational enterprise. All of us, individually and collectively, work hard toensure that our students develop the character, learn the skills and assimilate the knowledge essentialto become morally responsible leaders. The success of our University depends upon a conscientiouscommitment to our mission, vision and goals.

Saint Leo University develops hospitable Christian learning communities everywhere we serve. Wefoster a spirit of belonging, unity and interdependence based on mutual trust and respect to createsocially responsible environments that challenge all of us to listen, to learn, to change and to serve.

Animated in the spirit of Jesus Christ, we value all individuals’ unique talents, respect their dignity andstrive to foster their commitment to excellence in our work. Our community’s strength depends on theunity and diversity of our people, on the free exchange of ideas and on learning, living and workingharmoniously.

Saint Leo University stresses the development of every person’s mind, spirit and body for a balancedlife. All members of the Saint Leo University community must demonstrate their commitment topersonal development to help strengthen the character of our community.

Our Creator blesses us with an abundance of resources. We foster a spirit of service to employ ourresources to university and community development. We must be resourceful. We must optimize andapply all of the resources of our community to fulfill Saint Leo University’s mission and goals.

The commitment of Saint Leo University to excellence demands that its members live its mission anddeliver on its promise. The faculty, staff and students pledge to be honest, just and consistent in wordand deed.

Drawing from the mission, Saint Leo University’s history and culture and the Rule of Benedict, the following six Core Values were established in a process similar to the mission review.

In addition to the purposes and fundamental policy of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, as setforth in Constitution 1, members of Division II believe that a well-conducted intercollegiate athleticsprogram, based on sound educational principles and practices, is a proper part of the educationalmission of a university or college and that the educational welfare of the participating student-athlete isof primary concern.

Members of Division II support the following principles in the belief that these objectives assist indefining the division and the possible differences between it and other divisions of the Association. Thisstatement is not binding on member institutions but shall serve as a guide for the preparation oflegislation by the division and for planning and implementation of programs by institutions andconferences. A member of Division II:

• Believes in offering a maximum amount of intercollegiate athletics participation to as many of itsstudents as possible, whether or not these students are athletically recruited or financially assisted;

• Believes in striving for broad equitable participation and competitive excellence, encouragingsportsmanship, ethical conduct and developing positive societal attitudes in all of its athleticendeavors;

• Believes in scheduling the majority of its athletics competition with other members of Division II,insofar as regional qualification, geographical location and traditional or conference schedulingpatterns permit;

• Recognizes the dual objectives in its athletics program of serving both the campus (participants,student body, faculty-staff) and the general public (community, area, state);

• Believes in offering opportunity for participation in intercollegiate athletics permitting athleticallyrelated financial aid for its student-athletes, but on a more modest basis than that permitted inDivision I;

• Believes that all members of Division II, including those institutions aspiring to membership in someother division or those unable to subscribe to all of the aspects of the Division II philosophy, shouldcommit themselves that this philosophy and to the regulations and programs of Division II.

Founded in 1975, the Sunshine State Conference has risen from a single sport organization to the Division II“Conference of National Champions.” Since its inception, the conference has grown steadily in sports played,membership and national prominence.

Sunshine State Conference schools have won NCAA national championships (97 total) in baseball, softball,men’s and women’s golf, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s basketball, women’s lacrosse, women’s rowing,men’s and women’s tennis and volleyball, and are nationally recognized in men’s and women’s cross countryand men’s and women’s swimming. The first NCAA Division II national championship won by an SSCsponsored school was in the spring of 1978. The Florida Southern College baseball team captured thenational crown that year.The SSC has led all 24 Division II conferences in the NCAA Academic Success Rate nearly every year it hasbeen measured. Each year, over 1,000 student-athletes are named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll withGPA’s over 3.20 on a 4.00 scale.

Through a wide range of initiatives, the SSC, its member institutions and student-athletes are activelyinvolved in the Florida community. On a conference-wide basis, the SSC SAAC participates in an annualcommunity service project at Give Kids the World Village in Kissimmee, Florida in addition to fundraisingefforts conducted annually for the Make-A-Wish Foundation.

Barry Eckerd Embry-Riddle Florida Southern Florida Tech

Lynn Nova Southeastern Palm Beach Atlantic Rollins Tampa

Saint Leo

As a student-athlete at Saint Leo you will become acquainted with manypeople, but here are a few people you should get to know well.

Your coach is intensely concerned about you and your total welfare. You should feel free to consult with yourcoach at any time you have a problem of any kind.

Your coach expects you to comply with all instructions. You are expected to report on time. Saint LeoUniversity student-athletes contribute to the welfare of the team in every possible way. If it becomes evidentthat your conduct is detrimental to the welfare and morale of the team, the coach may dismiss you from theteam or impose some other kind of penalty.

Francis X. Reidy controls all intercollegiate programs at the University as mandated by the President of SaintLeo, Dr. Jeffrey Senese. He maintains an open door policy to all student-athletes who wish to talk to himregarding any phase of the intercollegiate athletics program. Get to know him as soon as possible. He also isthe sport administrator for men’s basketball, women’s basketball, men’s soccer, women’s soccer, men’slacrosse, women’s lacrosse, baseball, softball, volleyball, and beach volleyball

Michael Madagan will assist you with facility questions, scheduling of our facilities for athletic and non-athletic events, as well as work study for facilities and operations. He also has sport oversight for crosscountry, track, golf programs and swimming. He oversees compliance, recreation, and intramurals as well.

Barbara Wilson heads our Sports Medicine staff and is the SWA (Senior Woman Administrator) She overseesthe four athletic trainers, the training room, drug education and testing and implements all of the policiesand procedures for student-athletes in the area of sports medicine.

Erin Bean will assist you with branding, sponsorships, game environment and community engagementinitiatives as well as the Athletics Excellence Fund and all fundraising events.

Brad Bee heads our Athletic Communications staff. He oversees the three athletic communication staffmembers, the athletic website, statistical records for all programs, broadcasting and athletic publications andmedia relations.

Marcal Lazenby will assist you with any question or concern you, may have academically or athletically, aswell as assist you with questions on eligibility and financial aid.

Dr. Barbara Caldwell, Dean, School of Education and Social Services, serves as the Faculty AthleticsRepresentative (FAR) for the University. Although not a member of the athletic department, the FAR worksvery closely with the athletics program in monitoring the personal welfare of the student-athlete as well asbeing thoroughly educated on the rules surrounding student-athletes.

Vice President/Director of Athletics Fran Reidy 588-8221… fran.reidy@saintleo.eduAssociate Athletic Director Mike Madagan 588-8358… mike.madagan@saintleo.eduAssistant Athletic Director for External Operations Erin Bean 588-8223… erin.bean@saintleo.eduDirector of Athletics Communication Brad Bee 588-8681… bradley.bee@saintleo.eduManager of Athletics Communication Christy Lear 588-8506… christine.lear@saintleo.eduManager of Athletics Communication Sean Forrester 588-7285… sean.forrester@saintleo.eduManager of Athletics Multimedia Tim Simpson 588-8682... timothy.simpson04@saintleo.eduAssistant Athletic Director for Business Operations Dawn Boltin 588-8449… dawn.boltin@saintleo.eduAthletic Coordinator Kim Bush 588-7878… kimberlee.bush@saintleo.eduFaculty Athletic Representative Dr. Barbara Caldwell 588-8493… barbara.caldwell@saintleo.eduAssistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine / SWA Barbara Wilson 588-8222… barbara.wilson@saintleo.eduDirector of Sports Medicine… Susan Cross 588-7557… susan.cross@saintleo.eduAthletic Trainer Steve Jurnak 588-7169… steven.jurnak@saintleo.eduAthletic Trainer Kayla Cross 588-7559… kayla.cross@saintleo.eduStrength & Conditioning Coach Dustin Dailey 588-7253… dustin.dailey@saintleo.eduDirector of Strength & Conditioning Joe Nudo 588-8866… joseph.nudo@saintleo.eduDirector of Operations - Athletics, Recreation & Events Carrie Fidurko 588-7327… carrie.fidurko@saintleo.eduAssistant Director of Facilities Zach Kunkel 588-7309… zachary.kunkel@saintleo.eduAssistant Director of Intramurals & Recreation Connor Kilpatrick 588-8676… connor.kilpatrick@saintleo.eduDirector of Compliance Marcal Lazenby 588-7314… marcal.lazenby@saintleo.eduAssistant Director of Compliance Brent Graves 588-7251… brent.graves@saintleo.edu

HEAD COACHESBaseball Rick O’Dette 588-8227… richard.odette@saintleo.eduMen’s Basketball Lance Randall 588-8224… lance.randall@saintleo.eduWomen’s Basketball Anthony Crocitto 588-8447… anthony.crocitto@saintleo.eduCheerleading Haylee Monk cheerleading@saintleo.eduCross Country/Track – Men & Women Kent Reiber 588-7307… kent.reiber@saintleo.eduMen’s Golf Chris Greenwood 588-8366… chris.greenwood@saintleo.eduWomen’s Golf Lyndsey Bevill… 588-8684… lyndsey.bevill@saintleo.eduMen’s Lacrosse Brad Jorgensen 588-8366… bradley.jorgensen@saintleo.eduWomen’s Lacrosse Caitlin Hansen 588-7302… caitlin.hansen@saintleo.eduSoftball Erin Kinberger 588-8451... erin.kinberger@saintleo.eduMen’s Soccer Brett Parker 588-8573… brett.parker@saintleo.eduWomen’s Soccer Peter McGahey 588-8663… peter.mcgahey@saintleo.eduSwimming – Men & Women Paul Mangen 588-8641… paul.mangen@saintleo.eduTennis – Men & Women Chad Berryhill 588-7303… chad.berryhill@saintleo.eduVolleyball / Beach Volleyball Jason Skoch 588-8448… jason.skoch@saintleo.edu

In appreciation of the Benedictine values on which Saint Leo University is founded- community, respect,responsible stewardship, integrity, personal development, and excellence - the University holds students tohigh standards of moral and ethical conduct.

As members of this community, students are expected to be actively involved in the community andadvocate for and display the values on which the University is founded. Further, students are expected towork for the betterment of the community through active participation in the representative studentgovernment, community, social, educational, cultural and recreational programs.

The University treats students as responsible adults and therefore expects students to display maturity intheir actions. This philosophy is based on the recognition that those who are a part of an educationalprocess treat others with dignity in accord with the values of the University.

The basic approach to maintaining a code of conduct is self-discipline. Individual growth in autonomy,interpersonal relationships, life purpose, physical self-reliance, spiritual maturity, and achieving a balancedlifestyle are important aspects of the collegiate experience. The University expects that all persons expressthemselves through conduct that supports their own growth and the growth of all community members.Students must take responsibility for acting in ways that demonstrate respect for themselves and others,good stewardship of University resources, and live in a peaceful way. The University recognizes that therewill be occasions when students will not live up to these standards and will respond to those situationsappropriately and with consistency.

Your membership on a Saint Leo University athletics team is considered a privilege, not a right. You areexpected to demonstrate good sportsmanship, honesty, integrity and abide by the Student-Athlete Code ofConduct at all times.

As a Saint Leo University student-athlete, you are among the most visible students on campus as well as inthe community. This platform brings with it a whole set of privileges and responsibilities. Every student-athlete is expected to abide by the Saint Leo University Code of Student Responsibility, all other Universitypolicies, and rules and policies of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the SunshineState Conference (SSC).

You have a responsibility as an enrolled student-athlete to adhere to team rules as provided by the headcoach and the Athletic Department. These rules are important because they have the potential to affectyour status as a student-athlete at Saint Leo University.

You should receive a copy of the team rules or expectations for your specific team from the head coach atthe beginning of the year. If you have not received a copy of the team rules you should obtain oneimmediately and keep it with this handbook for future reference.

The following rules apply to all students-athletes:♦ It is expected that you will represent the University and Athletic Department in a positive manner,

especially while out in the public view.♦ You will attend class and take your responsibility as a student seriously.♦ You will refrain from tobacco products while involved in all athletic activities and while in all athletic

facilities♦ You will not use drugs unless prescribed by a physician for the purpose of treating illness, or a specific

medical condition♦ You will refrain from drinking alcohol, even if you are of legal drinking age, during all team trips and

functions.♦ Even if you or a recruit, are of legal drinking age you will not offer recruits alcoholic beverages or drink

alcohol while entertaining a recruit.

If you should have a grievance or complaint concerning your personal rights or team rules you should follow the protocol listed below:1. Discuss the issue with your team captain, if applicable.2. Meet with your head coach.3. Meet with the FAR, if applicable.4. If the issue continues to not be resolved:

♦Meet with an Associate Athletic Director ♦Meet with the Director of Athletics

5. Items of a special nature will be handled by the Assistant to the President. All issues sent to the President’s office will be sent back to the athletic department to follow the protocol list in items 1-5.

Further, it is the policy of the Department of Athletics that any student-athlete charged with a felony crime will be immediately suspended from athletic participation and will thereafter be eligible for reinstatement upon subsequent determination by the Director of Athletics , in consultation with the Vice President of Student Affairs and University President.

The administration may not always agree, but understands the purpose of internet websites such asFacebook/Twitter/Instagram or any of the variety of social media outlets; however the administration has veryclear interpretations with internet websites and pictures. Any picture that displays manners that areunbecoming of a Saint Leo University Student-Athlete (ex. Sexual harassment or hazing) will not be tolerated.Pictures of you with alcohol, display of sexual acts or promoting the University or Athletic Department in anegative light will result in disciplinary action. Therefore do not promote anything that may be viewed asquestionable by the administration, media, public or your family.

The University provides a resource room to all University students. Located in the Student Activity Center, theresource center is open Monday through Friday and on Sunday evenings. The resource room providesqualified tutors, computers, printers and resource materials. Some teams use this area as an option for studyhall. If the tutor on duty does not specialize in your upper level courses, a peer tutor will be set up FREE ofcharge. Students may bring laptops and materials to the resource room to allow staff to provide needed help.

It is the responsibility of the head coach or their designee of each sport to notify the student-athlete’sprofessors, via email, at least one week in advance of the missed class. The email will include: date,departure time, return date and the travel roster. If there is any adjustment to a travel roster, the coach willnotify the professors before departing. The coach will copy the student-athlete and the Compliance officeon the emails. It is still the responsibility of the student-athlete to meet with the professor prior to theabsence and turn in all required work and reschedule any missed assignments.

If you should encounter any problems with professors on excused absence please see Faculty AthleticRepresentative, Dr. Barbara Caldwell, immediately.

Student-athletes are considered to be students in every way. The student-athletes principal objective shouldbe to acquire the knowledge, understanding and skills needed for effective living.

Class attendance policies are established by the University and attendance requirements are specified in the syllabus of each class apply to student-athletes.

Student-athletes are excused from classes when representing the University in an official athletic contest.Student-athletes cannot be penalized and will be allowed to make up any and all work missed due torepresenting the University; however student-athletes are expected to make necessary arrangementsbeforehand and are responsible for all material covered during their absence.

For a home contest, student-athletes will be excused no more than 2 hours prior to the start of the contest.Student-athletes may not miss class for practices, scrimmages or contests during their offseason with theexception of golf, tennis and cross country.

Emails provide coaches and faculty members with information regarding attendance and academicperformance. In some special cases progress sheets will be carried to classes. Coaches access mid-term andother grades posted on the University’s DATATEL system.

1. Pre-Registration is only for those student-athletes with a zero financial balance on the opening date ofregistration

2. Student-athletes will set-up a meeting with their respective academic advisor one (1) week prior to thescheduled pre-registration week. The student-athlete will work on their schedule in tandem with theirAcademic Advisor.

3. The Academic Advisor will enter all schedules on the Monday of scheduled pre-registration week.

A faculty academic advisor is assigned to each student-athlete through the university. If your major shouldchange the university will assign you a new advisor. The Director for Compliance and the Assistant Director ofCompliance is another source of assistance, but does not replace your Academic Advisor.

For the student-athletes that receive books as part of their scholarship, the following policy applies:

1. The book coordinator will advise the student-athlete on where and when to pick their textbooks up.2. Before dropping or adding a course, first contact your coach, and then you must receive approval from

the Compliance Office. Once approved please see the book coordinator to return and/or purchase newbooks

3. Return Policy: ALL books must be returned no later than two days after finals.Note: If a book is not returned, the student-athlete will be billed for the cost of the book(s)

4. If you receive books, all book purchases must go through the Athletic Coordinator. Coaches, boosters,or anyone else is prohibited from providing your books.

If you need to drop a course after the term has begun, you must have it approved by Compliance Office.With approval, a student may drop classes without a grade or academic penalty any time in the semesterbefore a date set in the academic calendar. (See Saint Leo Bulletin/Catalog for exact date and details.) DONOT JUST STOP GOING TO CLASS! Excessive absence results in a failing grade or ineligibility.

Any student-athlete placed on academic probation by the University or has a Cumulative GPA of a 2.00or lower at the end of the academic year must meet the following criteria until removed from academicprobation or achieves a Cumulative GPA higher than a 2.00:1. Study-Hall – Mandatory 6 hours a week.2. Meet with their Head Coach Weekly

Student-athletes on institutional academic probation are ineligible to participate with their athletic team.If a student-athlete is on academic warning, participation is allowed.

The NCAA requires each student-athlete to meet specific academic requirements each semester andacademic year to ensure that each student-athlete will progress towards a degree. Academic eligibilityrequirements are based on the number of terms of full-time enrollment at Saint Leo University or anyprevious college/university attendance.

(Fall & Spring Semesters), a student-athlete must earn 9 credit hours. During astudent-athlete’s first and second year of college enrollment, any credits may be used to satisfy the 9 credithour requirement. Following the second year, credits must be applicable to his/her declared degree programin order to satisfy the 9 credit hour requirement. Credits earned during the winter or summer terms may notbe used to meet this requirement. If a course requires you to achieve a specific grade (i.e. “C”) in order tograduate and the student-athletes achieves lower than that grade (i.e. “D”) the course may not be used tofulfill the 9 or 18 requirement, even if it will count for elective credit.

(Fall, Winter, & Spring Semesters), a student-athlete must pass 18 credit hours.During a student-athlete’s first and second year of college enrollment, any credits may be used to satisfy the18 credit hour requirement. Following the second year, credits must be applicable to his/her declared degreeprogram in order to satisfy the 18 credit hour requirements. Credits earned during the summer terms may notbe used to meet this requirement. If a course requires you to achieve a specific grade (i.e. “C”) in order tograduate and the student-athletes achieves lower than that grade (i.e. “D”) the course may not be used tofulfill the 9 or 18 requirement, even if it will count for elective credit.

Each student-athlete must meet the following GPA requirements based.All Saint Leo student-athletes are required to maintain a 2.0 CUM GPAeach semester. Each year a student-athlete must earn 24 credit hoursand have a 2.0 cumulative GPA per semester in order to be eligible thefollowing academic year. Credits hours must be applicable to the declareddegree program in order to satisfy the percentage of degreerequirement. (Exception permitted only during first four semesters)

The GPA requirement must be maintained each and every semester andwill be certified before each semester. If a student-athlete falls below theGPA requirement at any time, he/she is immediately ineligible forcompetition.

Student-athletes eligibility will be monitored throughout the semesterand evaluated at the end of each semester. For a student-athlete deemed“at-risk”, his/her eligibility status will be determined by the Director ofAthletics, FAR and Compliance Office.

To remain in good standing:

A student-athlete must have earned the minimum 2.0 GPA after each term.

A student-athlete must declare a major by the beginning of their junior year or 5th semester

A student-athlete must earn a minimum of 18 degree applicable hours between the fall and springsemesters and at least 24 degree applicable hours over the fall, spring, and summer

In order to remain eligible for competition, a student must have satisfactory completion of nine credithours of academic credit the preceding regular academic term in which the student was enrolled fulltime. Summer school hours cannot be used to fulfill this requirement.

Some Saint Leo University courses require a “C” grade or better in order to earn credit for the course.(“C-” would be considered non-passing)

Credit from remedial courses taken at Saint Leo University may count towards progress towardsdegree only in the student-athlete’s first year of collegiate enrollment.

The progress-towards-degree process is handled primarily by the Registrar’s office and the AthleticDepartment’s Compliance Office to ensure compliance with institutional, conference and NCAA regulations.The entire certification process involves active participation of several constituencies such as the FacultyAthletics Representative, Registrar, Compliance Office, Vice President/VP/Director of Athletics, and HeadCoach.

Remedial, tutorial or noncredit courses may be used by a student-athlete to satisfy the progress-toward-degree requirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4 only if such courses meet all of the followingconditions:

a) The courses must be considered by the institution to be prerequisites for specific courses acceptable forany degree program;

b) The courses must be given the same weight as others in the institution in determining the student-athlete’s status for full-time enrollment;

c) Noncredit courses may not exceed the maximum institutional limit for such courses in any baccalaureatedegree program (or the student-athlete’s specific baccalaureate degree program once a program hasbeen designated); and

d) Credit in such courses shall not exceed 12-semester or 18-quarter hours, and the courses must betakenduring the student-athlete’s first academic year of collegiate enrollment.

e) Example of courses are ENG003, ENG 121, MAT003, MAT 141. Please check course evaluation, anycourse that appears in the others section of your evaluation may not be used to certify PTDrequirements unless specified above. Please check with the compliance office if you haveany questions.

A student-athlete who receives an incomplete grade in a course may use the course in question to satisfy theprogress-toward-degree requirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and14.4.3.4, subject to the following conditions:

a) The incomplete grade must have been removed and recorded in accordance with the institution’sregulations applicable to all students;

b) Such a course may be counted only once after a grade has been achieved that is acceptable to theinstitution for determining progress-toward-degree; and

c) In the case of no institutional policy, the course with the acceptable grade shall be counted either duringthe term in which the student initially enrolled in the course or during the term in which the incompletegrade was removed and acceptable credit was awarded.

Credit for courses that are repeated may be used by a student-athlete to satisfy the progress-toward-degreerequirements of Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4 only under the following conditions:

a) A course repeated due to an unsatisfactory initial grade may be used only once and only after it has beensatisfactorily completed;

b) Credit for a course that may be taken several times (e.g., a physical education activities course) shall belimited by institutional regulations; and

c) Credits earned in courses that may be taken several times may not exceed the maximum institutional limitfor credits of that type for any baccalaureate degree program (or for the student-athlete’s specificbaccalaureate degree program once a program has been designated).

One time during a student-athlete’s entire period of collegiate enrollment, the provisions of Bylaws 14.4.3.3and 14.4.3.4 may be adjusted to require completion of 12 hours per term of actual attendance, if the student-athlete misses a complete term or consecutive terms during an academic year, subject to the followingconditions:

a) The student-athlete engaged in no outside competition in the sport during the academic term or terms inwhich the student was not in attendance;

b) The student-athlete was eligible for enrollment during the student’s absence; andc) At the time of certification, the student-athlete has fulfilled the progress-toward-degree requirements

(per Bylaws 14.4.3.2, 14.4.3.3 and 14.4.3.4) for the terms in which the student was in attendance. It is notpermissible to use this one-time exception during the first academic year in residence at the certifyinginstitution in order to maintain eligibility during the second year in residence. Hours earned while enrolledas a part-time student during the “missed term” may not be counted in meeting the progress-toward-degree requirement.

*There are a number of possible exceptions to apply if a student does not meet the progress toward degree requirements contact the Compliance Office to discuss options.

The Saint Leo University Bridge Program is an academic program designed to provide qualified students withthe opportunity to adjust smoothly to the US academic environment. The Program serves the needs and theinterests of international students who meet the minimum English language proficiency requirements forUniversity admission.

If you are ready to start your undergraduate studies but your language proficiency test scores are just belowthe University general admission requirements, our Bridge Program is for you.

Regular track (two semesters): The students whose scores show intermediate proficiency level (45-64 iBT,5.0-5.5 IELTS, PTE A 35-43) will be enrolled in the regular two-semester track and will follow the full BridgeProgram curriculum.

Fast track (one semester): The students whose scores indicate advanced-intermediate level of proficiency(65-78 iBT, 5.5-6.0 IELTS, PTE A 44-52) will be enrolled in the fast one-semester track which follows a modifiedcurriculum.

Students may be exempt from the Bridge program if English proficiency scores meets or exceeds one of thefollowing: TOEFL 79 iBT (Minimum 19 subscores), IELTS 6.5 (Minimum 6.0 bandscores), PTE A 53 (Minimum52 bandscores), ELS Level 112, or Duolingo 61.

The university reserves the right to make adjustments to the noted admission criteria.

Bridge program coursework may be used to satisfy progress toward degree requirements during the first foursemesters of collegiate enrollment. Bridge program coursework taken after the fifth semester will only countas an elective credit and only if your major allows the course work to count.

Each academic year, each head coach will declare two segments (one in the fall semester and one in thespring semester) that are considered in-season. All other segments during the academic year areconsidered out-of-season. Below are the NCAA requirements that are permitted during each of thesesegments.

In season, a student-athlete may participate incountable athletically related activities asfollows:• No more than 20 hours of activity per week

(Sunday through Saturday).• No more than 4 hours of activity per day.• Must be given one day off per week.• A travel day, with no other activity, is

considered a day off.

In season, a student-athlete may participate incountable athletically related activities asfollows:• Sports other than golf and tennis. No more

than 15 hours of activity per week during 45-consecutive calendar day period (Sundaythrough Saturday). May omit vacation andexam days so long as no practice/competitiontake place.

• No more than 4 hours of activity per day.• Must be given two days off per week.

• No more than 20 hours of activity per weekduring 60-consective calendar day period(Sunday through Saturday). May omitvacation and exam days so long as nopractice/competition take place.

• No more than 4 hours of activity per day.• Must be given two days off per week.

Out-of-season, a student-athlete may participate in countable athletically related activities as follows: • No more than 8 hours of conditioning, weight

training or team/individual skill instructionper week (Sunday through Saturday).

• Team activities/Individual skill instruction maynot exceed 2 hours per week. Team skillinstruction may only occur until day beforethe declared start of the non-championshipsegment.

• No more than 4 hours of activity per day.• Must be given two days off per week.

A student-athlete may participate in voluntary sport-related activity over the allowable number of practice hours per week provided:

• A student-athlete must not be required to report information back to a coach or other athletics department staff member and no staff member who observes the activity (i.e. athletic trainer, strength coach) may report information back to the student-athlete’s coach

• A student-athlete must initiate and request the activity solely on his/her own accord. • A student-athletes attendance or participation in a voluntary activity must not be recorded for the purpose of

reporting such information back to the coaching staff or other student-athletes. • A student-athlete may not be subject to penalty for not participating or recognition/incentives based on

his/her participation. • A coach is not present to view or assist the voluntary activity.

Practice Logs or CARA logs will be reviewed through ARMS at the appropriate times by the Compliance Office.These calendars/practice logs must include an accurate account of all athletics activities for the given timeperiod. Each week, the hours will be added up automatically in ARMS for each student-athlete. Once a coachsubmits their practice logs, a random selection of two student-athletes from each team will review andelectronically sign the ARMS practice logs. The practice logs will be reviewed and approved by theCompliance Office. Student-Athletes that are selected will have two weeks to respond. After the two weeksthe Compliance office will push the approvals through in ARMS.

Countable athletically related activities (CARA) include any meeting, activity or instruction involving sports-related information and/or having an athletics purpose, held for one or more student-athletes at thedirection of, or supervised by, any member or members of an institution's coaching staff.

Annually, the Compliance Office will review appropriate NCAA rules and regulations with each team. Eachstudent-athlete is responsible for having a basic understanding of NCAA rules in areas such as eligibility,playing and practice season, amateurism, agents, and employment. Each student-athlete will completehis/her Saint Leo Athletics Eligibility Packet, NCAA Student-Athlete Statement and NCAA Drug TestingConsent Forms annually through ARMS. Upon completion, the Compliance Office will certify that thestudent-athlete meets all academic and athletic eligibility requirements in order to practice and/orcompete.

A basic knowledge of NCAA rules is a necessity to prevent unwanted rules violations that can affect youreligibility to compete. If you are aware of an NCAA violation, you are required by NCAA Bylaw 10.1 toprovide such information to the Athletics Department immediately. You may inform the Compliance Office,the Director of Athletics, or any other athletics administrator.

Each student-athlete may compete for a total of four seasons within a 10-semester period in any sport.Once you enroll and attend classes during any full-time semester, you have utilized one of your 10semesters.

Each academic year, the Compliance Office will certify if you have used one of your four seasons ofcompetition. If you participate in any outside competition(s), you will have used a season of competition.The only exceptions are as follows: Freshmen may compete in scrimmages and exhibitions (which meet theNCAA definition for those contests) and not use a season of competition if they compete in no othercontests; or Student-athletes in men’s soccer, women’s soccer may participate in spring competitions andnot use a season of competition if they compete in no other contests and were eligible to compete duringthe fall semester; or Student-Athletes in Lacrosse, Baseball and Softball may participate in Fall competitionsand not use a season of competition.

If you have not participated in any competition(s) for the current academic year, you will not be deducted aseason of competition.

A student-athlete must be enrolled full-time (minimum of 12 credit hours) at all times to be eligible forpractice and competition. If you drop below full-time enrollment at any time, you are immediately ineligiblefor practice, competition and financial aid. If you wish to drop a class at any time, you must see theCompliance Office. Graduate student-athletes must be enrolled in at least six credit hour in order to beconsidered full-time.

Exception to full-time enrollment:If you require less than 12 hours to graduate in your final semester you must fill out the “Final SemesterCertification” form. This form requires the signature of both the Compliance and Registrars office.

In order to be eligible for practice in Saint Leo University Athletics you must:• Be registered for a full-time program of study towards a bachelor’s degree at Saint Leo University;• Complete all NCAA and Athletics Department Eligibility Paperwork; and• Complete all Athletics Department Medical Clearance Procedures.

In order to be eligible for competition in Saint Leo Athletics you must:• Be registered in a minimum of 12 credit hours at all times;• Meet all academic eligibility requirements of the NCAA, Saint Leo University, and athletic conference

(if applicable);• Complete all NCAA and Athletics Department Eligibility Paperwork through ARMS; and• Complete all Athletics Department Medical Clearance Procedures.

A student-athlete must declare a major by the start of the fifth semester of full-time enrollment or the junioryear. Classes that count towards graduation in one major (such as Business Administration) may not counttowards graduation in another (such as Exercise Science). Each student-athlete is required to meet with theNCAA Compliance Office prior to any change of major. Changing your major without first consulting with yourthese staff members may result in you becoming ineligible for competition or forfeiture of games.

A student-athlete must be an amateur in order to compete in intercollegiate athletics. A student-athlete willlose his/her eligibility for intercollegiate competition if he/she:

• Uses his/her athletics skills (directly or indirectly) for pay in any form in their sport;• Accepts a promise of pay (even if the pay will be after graduation or completion of their eligibility);• Signs a contract or commitment to play professional sports;• Receives (directly or indirectly) a salary, reimbursement of expenses or any other form of financial

assistance from a professional sports organization;• Competes on any professional athletics team even if no pay or remuneration for expenses is received

(except for tennis and golf);• Enters into a professional draft;• Enters into an agreement (written, oral, handshake) with an agent.

An agent or talent scout is any individual other than your parents or legal guardians that markets your athleticability for the purpose of professional competition. If you or any of your family members are approached by anagent or talent scout regarding your ability for professional athletics, you must inform your coach and theCompliance Office immediately. Failure to do so could result in a loss of eligibility for intercollegiate athleticsand possible forfeiture of games.

If you wish to pursue your options for a professional athletic career, you must contact the Compliance Officeto discuss such options.

A student-athlete may be eligible for a medical hardship waiver if all the following conditions are met:

• A student-athlete sustains an incapacitating injury or illness during one of the four seasons ofcompetition;

• The injury or illness occurs when the student-athlete has not participated in more than threecontests/dates of competition or 30% of all scheduled contests, whichever is greater

The Medical Hardship waiver must be filed and granted by the Sunshine State Conference. Supportingmedical documentation from the examining physician will be required to validate the incapacitating natureof the injury. A Medical Hardship Waiver grants an additional season of competition to the student-athletethat must be used within the student-athletes 10 semesters.

If a student-athlete believes a Medical Hardship Waiver should be granted, the student-athlete shouldinform their coaching staff, the Athletic Training Staff, and/or the Compliance office at the first availableopportunity. Failure to notify the one of these staff members in a timely manner may prohibit a MedicalHardship Waiver based on Sunshine State Conference requirements.

Outside competition is considered any athletics competition against any other athletics team (including analumni team) that does not represent the intercollegiate athletics program for Saint Leo University.

Any student-athlete who participates in outside competition during the academic year becomes ineligibleand may not participate in intercollegiate competition until the NCAA has restored the student-athleteseligibility. For sports other than basketball a student-athlete may participate in outside competition duringan official vacation period (winter break) that is outside of the sports declared playing season.

You may not compete as a member of any outside team or all-star squad in any non-collegiate, amateurcompetition in your sport except as approved by the NCAA. Check with your coach or the AthleticCompliance Department if questions arise.

The NCAA stipulates that responsibility for violations of NCAA regulations rests with each student-athlete.Responsibility for compliance with NCAA rules applies to the period of recruitment as well as toparticipation in college. Each student-athlete must reveal knowledge about violations by others, this maydone to the Assistant Coach, Head Coach, FAR, Associate Athletic Director/SWA or Director of Athleticsdirectly.

The NCAA opposes all forms of legal and illegal sports wagering. Sports wagering has the potential toundermine the integrity of sports contests and jeopardizes the welfare of student-athletes and theintercollegiate athletics community. Sports wagering demeans the competition and competitors alike by amessage that is contrary to the purposes and meaning of “sport”. Sports competition should be appreciatedfor the inherent benefits related to participation of student-athletes, coaches, and institutions in faircontests, not the amount of money wagered on the outcome of the competition.

For these reasons, the NCAA membership has adopted specific rules prohibiting athletics department staffmembers and student-athletes from engaging in gambling activities as they relate to intercollegiate orprofessional sporting events. This includes betting through a bookie, online pools, family pools, Facebookpools, fantasy leagues or any other wagering designed to award anything of tangible value to a winner.

In addition to actually wagering on sporting events, providing information to someone within organizedgambling regarding an event or student-athlete is also prohibited. Organized gambling on sports has becomea serious business, one in which the gambling industry is constantly seeking sources of information to set thebetting lines or odds. If this occurs, you must immediately report this information to your coach or someonewithin the Athletics Department Administration. Involvement in gambling, regardless of how minor, mayjeopardize any or all of your athletics eligibility.

Saint Leo strongly supports the NCAA’s position on gambling and also strongly discourages all forms ofgambling, including gambling unrelated to athletics events, such as poker, blackjack, etc. Gambling canbecome a very addictive behavior, one that can jeopardize your health, welfare, athletic or academic success.If you feel that you have an issue with gambling please do not hesitate to contact your coach, the ComplianceOffice, Athletics Director or any other Athletics Department administrator to seek help.

Strict NCAA rules apply to any tobacco products at games or practices. Make sure you are not using tobaccoproducts either on the field or practice or within any athletic facility including the Athletic Training Room,batting cages, tennis courts, etc. The Marion Bowman Activities Center is a smoke-free building. All smokingmust be done outside and not during any athletically related activity. This policy also applies to smokelesstobacco products. There is to be no dip or chewing tobacco used by students or staff on the fields or in theoffices, training rooms or locker rooms.

The institution has prohibited the use of any tobacco products inside any facility as well as all athletic venuessuch as inside the baseball stadium, for example.

Crowdfunding is the practice of funding a project or venture by raising monetary contributions from a largenumber of people, typically via the Internet.

A student-athlete is permitted to set up his or her own profile on a crowdfunding website to solicit funds topay for expenses associated with competition and practice for an outside team. A student-athlete whoparticipates in a sport as a member of a team may receive actual and necessary expenses for competitionand practice held in preparation for competition from the outside team.

A student-athlete is not permitted to set up his or her own crowdfunding website and use his or her name,picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds to buy items (e.g., laptop, car, food, school supplies,athletics equipment.) The student-athlete's eligibility to compete in intercollegiate athletics in a particularsport is jeopardized if he or she uses his or her name, picture, athletics skill or reputation to earn pay in anyform in the sport, including funds through a crowdfunding website for items of need.

A student-athlete is permitted to set up his or her own crowdfunding website and use his or her name,picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit funds for a mission trip because fundraising for a mission trip isusually operated by a nonprofit entity is generally considered a permissible promotional activity for astudent-athlete under Bylaw 12.5.1.1.

A student-athlete, who has exhausted his or her eligibility,is permitted to set up a crowdfunding site and use his orher name, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicitfunds for educational expenses provided the student-athlete is not currently enrolled in the academic year inwhich the student-athlete will exhaust eligibility.

A student-athlete who is currently enrolled in the academicyear in which he or she will exhaust eligibility is notpermitted to set up a crowdfunding site and use his or hername, picture, athletics reputation or skill to solicit fundsfor educational expenses.

Saint Leo Athletics is responsible for ensuring your amateur status to participate in intercollegiate athletics,including the use of a student-athlete’s name, picture, likeness or appearance to promote activities.According to NCAA Bylaw 12.5.1.1, the Saint Leo Athletics Department is required to present writtenapproval for any student-athlete participating in any institutional, or non-institutional charitable,educational, or non-profit activity or project considered incidental to the student-athlete’s participation inintercollegiate athletics.

Saint Leo, or a non-institutional charitable, educational, or non-profit agency may use a student-athlete’sname, picture, or appearance to support its charitable or educational activities, but as stipulated underNCAA Bylaws 12.5.1.1 (a-i), a Saint Leo student-athlete may participate in an institutional, or non-institutional charitable, educational, or non-profit promotion only under the following conditions:

The student-athlete receives written approval toparticipate from the Director of Athletics (or his/her

designee); The student-athlete and an authorized representative of

the charitable, educational, or non-profit agency mustsign a release statement ensuring that the student-athlete’s name, image, or appearance will not be usedfor any commercial purpose;

The specific activity or project in which the student-athlete participates does not involve co- sponsorship,advertisement, or promotion by a commercial agency.The sponsoring organization may reproduce theirregular trademark or logo (along with their address andtelephone number) only on printed materials suchas pictures, posters, or calendars;

The name or picture of a student-athlete with remainingeligibility may not appear on an institution’s printedpromotional item (e.g. poster, calendar) that includes areproduction of a product with which a commercialentity is associated if the commercial entity’s officiallyregistered regular trademark or logo appears on theitem;

The student-athlete does not miss class; All monies derived from the activity or project go directly

to Saint Leo, or the charitable, educational, or non-profit agency;

The student-athlete’s name, picture, or appearance isnot utilized to promote the commercial ventures of anynon-profit agency.

The most common recruiting activity student-athletes participate in is during an official visit. An official visit isa visit in which Saint Leo pays the expenses for a prospective student-athlete to visit our campus for a limitedamount of time. On an official visit, many of you may serve as a student host.

The following are guidelines in order to serve as a student host:• A student-athlete must be enrolled full-time.• Only one student-host may be provided a free meal if attending a restaurant.• The student host shall only receive money to entertain the prospect, the prospect’s parents or spouse

and the student host.• A maximum of $30.00 a day will be provided to cover all entertainment expenses. An additional

$15.00 a day may be provided for each additional prospect being hosted by one student-athlete.• Entertainment expenses can include late night snacks.• A student host may not purchase alcoholic beverages regardless of whether the host or the prospect is

of legal drinking age.• No cash may be given to the visiting prospect.• A student host may not use entertainment funds to purchase gifts or souvenirs for the prospect.• A student host may not use transportation provided or arranged by a Saint Leo staff member or

booster of the athletics program.• A student host may not transport the prospect or friends/family more than 30 miles from campus.• A student host may not allow recruiting conversations to occur, on or off campus, between a prospect

and a booster.• A student host may receive complimentary admission when accompanying a prospect to an on

campus athletics event.• A student host may not use student host money to entertain any individuals other than the prospect

and his/her parents or legal guardians. This includes teammates, friends, coaches, etc.• A student host shall be responsible for turning in all receipts the day after the visit.

In addition, the following are strictly prohibited during an official visit: • The use of alcohol, regardless of age • The use of drugs • The use of sex as a recruiting tool • Entertainment outside a 30-mile radius of campus • Gambling activities • Interaction with boosters of the athletics program • Any other activity that violates criminal law, Saint Leo policy or NCAA rules

Student-athletes have the opportunity to participate in the recruiting process under certain circumstances.These activities can include hosting a prospect. The topics below cover permissible and impermissibleactivities for student-athletes with regard to recruiting.

Prior to an official visit, the head coach, or his/her designee, is responsible for assigning the student hostworkflow in ARMS. The student host will review the Student Host Instructions and sign of in ARMS. By signingthe Student Host Form, you certify that the Student Host Instructions and Official Visit Policy have beenreviewed. After the official visit, the student-athlete must return receipts for use of any and all entertainmentmoney and any remaining money no later than the day after the conclusion of the official visit. The studenthost and the head coach will certify how much of the entertainment money was spent and returned in ARMS.

NCAA rules permit a student-athlete on a scholarship to receive income from work-study employment in theAthletic Department. However, each student-athlete is required to complete all paperwork in HumanResources prior to working in any department. Employment secured off campus with the assistance of aSaint Leo coach will need to be on file with the compliance office.

A student-athlete may be employed at any Saint Leo, other institution, or privately owned camp or clinic,provide he/she is paid for work actually performed and paid at an equivalent rate for other camp/clinicemployees with similar duties. In addition, the following requirements apply:

• A student-athlete must perform general supervisory duties in addition to any coaching or officiatingduties;

• A student-athlete may not be paid based on athletics ability or reputation;• A student-athlete may not be paid for only lecturing or demonstrating at a camp/clinic;• A student-athlete may not use his/her name or image to promote the camp.

In addition to compensation, a student-athlete may receive travel expenses provided such travel expensesare given to all employees of the camp/clinic. A student-athlete may not conduct his/her own camp orclinic at any time.

According to NCAA legislation, it is permissible for an institution's coach who owns or operates a local sports club to employ a student-athlete, who is a member of his or her team, in the club outside the institution's playing season, provided no countable athletically related activities occur as a result of the employment. In addition, the following requirements apply:

• You cannot be paid on the basis of my athletics ability or reputation;• You can only be paid for work that I have actually performed;• You can only be compensated at a rate commensurate with the going rate in this locality for similar

services;• You will not take any benefits not available to other employees;• You may not endorse a company, your employer or any commercial product or service;• The employer will not publicize your employment or use your name or picture to

advertiser or promote the organization; and,• You will make available, if requested, copies of all records related to my employment.

It is the goal of Saint Leo University Athletics to continuallyeducate and inform its student-athletes.As legislation changes and new situations arise, weunderstand the significance of the student-athletecontribution, and strive to support all of its athletes byproviding comprehensive rules education.• The Head Coach, Faculty Athletics Representative and

Director of Compliance are responsible for educatingstudent-athletes.

• The Compliance staff will conduct a rules educationmeeting at the beginning of each semester with eachteam. This meeting will review important NCAA and SLUregulations, including the summary of NCAA Regulations,Academic Eligibility Rules, Financial Aid, Code of Conduct,Amateurism Guidelines, and Playing and Practice Seasons.

• The Compliance staff will administer all NCAA and SLUEligibility paperwork, NCAA Drug Consent Forms, HIPAAForms, and the Student-Athlete Statement through ARMSsoftware system.

• The Compliance staff are responsible for providing student-athletes with written materials regarding relevant rules andinterpretations. This material will be distributed throughthe ARMS software program. Each student-athlete will beencouraged to consult the Athletic Departments Websiteor the NCAA website for all related complianceinformation.

Rules education is a critical part of the compliance program at Saint Leo University. Education and knowledgeof university and NCAA rules is the first step in maintaining compliance and upholding the integrity of theuniversity. Although student-athletes are not expected to know every NCAA rule, they are expected to knowthe basic rules, to use the student-athlete handbook as a reference point, and to ask for interpretationsbefore acting when the rules or situation seems unclear. The rules education program is intended to preparestudent-athletes to identify areas where compliance problems may exist and to identify infractions, shouldthey occur.

The rules education program is also intended to inform and educate student-athletes ofproposals and changes to NCAA rules throughout the legislative process. In addition, Directorof Compliance will seek input from student-athlete advisory committee throughout theprocess that relates to their specific sport or area.

Director of Compliance will schedule and conduct ruleseducation throughout the year as follows:

• A group compliance meeting will be held at thebeginning of the academic year to cover new legislation,review the student-athlete handbook, and proceduresfor the upcoming year.

• The Compliance staff will have a follow-up in-personmeeting with all sports teams during the beginning ofthe spring semester.

• Compliance Student-Athlete Compliance MattersMonthly Newsletters will be sent through your ARMS e-mail.

• The Compliance staff will send rules education anddepartment reminders throughout the semester throughthe ARMS text messaging system.

• The following documents will be available on AthleticsDepartment website:

• NCAA Compliance Manual;• Saint Leo University Guide for Boosters &

representatives of Athletic Interests• Saint Leo University Student-Athlete Handbook

All financial aid assistance received by a student-athlete must be reported annually. Compliance with NCAAand Sunshine State Conference rules and regulations is required. Therefore, if you are on an athleticscholarship, check with the Director of Financial Aid before accepting additional aid. A full scholarshipequivalency represents the maximum for your combined aid. However, you may be eligible to receiveadditional assistance from Pell Grant Funds without affecting your athletic scholarship. Contact the FinancialAid Office for more information on Pell Grants.

The Financial Aid Office staff helps you investigate the possibility of long-term student loans or federal grants,and assists you with the application process related to qualifying for these funds.

You may receive a grant-in-aid, frequently called a“scholarship”, because of your athletic ability. Anathletically related grant-in-aid and other forms offinancial assistance helps you with your universityexpenses.

ALL AGREEMENTS MUST BE IN WRITING. Thefinancial aid agreement is for one year per NCAAlegislation. The scholarship document is the onlybinding contract between the institution and thestudent-athlete. Saint Leo University will not honorany verbal or written agreements outside of thescholarship.

Varsity teams receive a specific number of grants-in-aid (scholarships) in accordance with budgetaryrestrictions and NCAA regulations. The UniversityFinancial Aid Office awards these grants upon therecommendation of the Head coach and theapproval of the VP/ Director of Athletics. Grants-in-aid are not reimbursement for services performed.Grants-in-aid help student-athletes with theireducational expenses such as tuition, room, boardand course-related books.

Grants-in-aid may be available for the summer termclasses. You must work with your head coach oncompleting the required form. Summer aid issubject to the recommendation of the Head Coachand the discretion of the VP/ Director of Athletics.

By NCAA regulations, athletic grant-in-aid is awardedfor a one-year term and may be renewed, howeverthey are not guaranteed.

Questions always arise concerning the types of University expenses that are not covered for a student-athleteon full scholarship. Covered items include tuition, required books, room and board. The expenses listedbelow are not covered by your scholarship.

Items not covered:• Cost for treatment for non-athletically related injuries or illnesses• Fines for damage to University property, including the Resident Halls• Key deposits or replacement of lost Residence Hall Key• “Consumable charges” which can be anything from lab fees for breakage to

non-required field trips• Replacement fee for lost ID’s• School supplies such as pens, notebooks, paper• Vehicle registration fee• Parking fines• Charges for lost athletic-issued equipment• Health Center Fees• Commencement Fees• Non-required fees & supplies• Off campus housing

Summer school awards are considered on a case by case basis. There are many factors in determining whowill receive “Summer School Award”(e.g. available funds, gender and sport equity). Numerous major changes,course withdrawals and failures, and other circumstances from the student-athlete’s personal academic recordwill affect the granting of such aid. Summer aid is at the recommendation of the head coach and at thediscretion of the Director of Athletics.

A student-athlete is permitted to receive financial aid in any way related to athletics ability, either from SaintLeo or an outside source, up to a full grant-in-aid (covering tuition, fees, room, board, and required courserelated books). Other sources of aid unrelated to athletics ability (loans, grants, Pell Grants, etc.) may bereceived up to the cost of attendance, as determined by the Office of Financial Aid. Each student-athlete isrequired to report all outside aid to the Financial Aid Office at the start of the academic year. The Office ofFinancial Aid will determine whether the outside aid is permissible within accordance of NCAA rules.

If a student-athlete receives aid in excess of the permissible amount of NCAA allowable aid, the student-athlete’s athletics aid will be reduced or the student-athlete will be asked to decline an outside award toremain in accordance with NCAA rules.

A grant-in-aid remains in effect for the term of that award, per NCAA rules all scholarships are a one yearagreement. A scholarship may be reduced or cancelled during that period if you (the recipient):

• Render yourself ineligible for athletic competition.• Misrepresent information on your application or Letter of Intent.• Voluntarily withdraw from your sport.• Engage in misconduct serious enough to warrant disciplinary action and cancellation of aid.

Failure to follow training regulations and/or a lack of effort in practice to improve skills and level ofperformance may result in a downgrade or non-renewal of aid based on athletic ability the following year.

You will receive notification by June 30th of each year concerning the status of your financial aid. The headcoach may recommend an amendment/cancellation to your original grant to the Director of Athletics andthen the Director of Financial Aid. You may appeal a decision to reduce or discontinue your aid through theUniversity Scholarship Committee. The appeal process must be completed prior to the commencement of thenext academic year.

NCAA institutions receive more penalties for providing extra benefits to student-athletes than any otherinfraction. Many of these extra benefits come from coaches or “outside supporters.” Accepting illegal aidviolates NCAA rules and causes the loss of eligibility and scholarship benefits. MAKE SURE YOU ARE NOT THERECIPIENT OF ANY OF THESE BENEFITS.

Illegal benefits:• Transportation not paid for by the student-athlete• Use of athletic department printers, copier, or fax machine for personal use• Gifts or loans of money• Gifts of clothing or other personal items• Arrangement for the purchase of an automobile on special, favorable terms• Use of an automobile not his or her own (perhaps a coach’s car)• Free admission or a special discount not available to other students• Special favors to parents or legal guardians• Unusual housing or living arrangements• Selling or allowing the sale of the student-athlete’s tickets to an athletic event• Special entertainment not available to other students.• Books provided outside the financial aid process

These are only a few examples of illegal aid. Avoid any “free” or “special” benefit unless you are certain thatthe benefit is equally available to all students and unless you discuss the situation with your head coach.When in doubt about accepting any benefit or interpretation, consult your coach, Associate Director ofAthletics, Director of Compliance, or Faculty Athletic Representative.

A student who wishes to appeal any decision related to his orher athletic grant-in-aid shall submit a written request thatincludes the following information to the Director of Athleticswithin 30 days of notification:

• The student’s name, student ID number, year in school, andsport

• Type and amount of previous financial aid• Reasons why the student feels the decision was unfair• Copies of any relevant documents (e.g. letter regarding

initial award of athletic scholarship, written promises)

If the VP/ Director of Athletics denies the request, the studentmay request an in-person hearing before the scholarshipappeals committee. The appeal is reviewed by thescholarship appeals committee, and its decision is final. Thecommittee is comprised of individuals outside of the athleticdepartment and is chaired by the Assistant to the President.

The student-athlete submits an appeal to the Office of theAssistant to the President within the 30 day window with thesupporting documents. A hearing date is set. The student-athlete will present to the committee followed by the VP/Director of Athletics or head coach. The appeal is reviewedand one of the following two actions is taken:

• If the scholarship appeals committee finds that thedecision to reduce or not renew the aid has not violatedthe rules, regulations or institutional policies and noextenuating circumstances are present, the appeal isdenied.

• If the scholarship appeals committee finds that thedecision to reduce or not renew the aid did violate therules, regulations and institutional policies, the appeal willbe approved. The grant and aid is then made available tothe student-athlete as soon as possible.

In any case, the chair of the scholarship appeals committeewill notify the student-athlete in writing within three (3)weeks after the appeal is submitted. If the student wishes todiscuss the result of the appeal, a meeting with the chair or adesignated member of the scholarship appeals committee isarranged.

The mission of the Sports Medicine Department at Saint Leo University seeks to preserve and enhance themission of the University along with its culture and values through professional health care. The Saint LeoUniversity Sports Medicine Department focuses on the student-athlete’s physical and emotional well-being byproviding professional education & prevention, assessment, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuriesand illnesses. The Sports Medicine Department is made up of certified athletic trainers, primary carephysicians, orthopedic specialists and other ancillary personnel representing 21 intercollegiate sports andcheerleading. This department strives to continue to look for new and creative ways to provide a safeenvironment for our student-athletes while being an advocate for Saint Leo University.

• Read over Policy and Procedure Manual upon entering Saint Leo University, and direct any questions to the Sports Medicine Team.

• Modest dress is required at all times inside the athletic training room in accordance with regulations set forth by the University’s dress code, especially during cold tub usage

• Protective footwear is required throughout the athletic training room; no spiked shoes in the athletic training room, weight room, locker room or hallways.

• Obey all safety rules and regulations; use prescribed pads and equipment, strapping, wrapping, and other protective equipment.

• Treat Sports Medicine staff with respect.• Avoid removal of supplies or equipment from the athletic training room without the permission of the

AT. All equipment must be signed out and returned.• Carry out to the fullest all conditioning and rehabilitation programs prescribed by the Sports Medicine

and Strength & Conditioning Staff. • Report all injuries to the coach and AT.• Report all current prescription medication to AT.• Report on time for all treatments and doctor appointments and document when needed.

Daily operating procedures and hours for the athletic training room are to be posted on the athletic trainingroom door. During the academic calendar the athletic training room will be open a maximum of one hour priorto practice, and two hours prior to a game for treatments and taping. Weekend hours are scheduled aroundin-season practice & competition. Rehabilitation appointments will be scheduled according to AT and student-athlete’s schedule. In the event of an emergency and the athletic training room is closed, injured student-athletes should be cared for at either Health Services, or, if warranted, at Advent Health Dade City. Theassigned athletic trainer to your team should be notified of this occurrence.

Coaches are required to submit to the athletic training staff a complete copy of the team’s practice schedule,including start and end times one week in advance. A member of the athletic training staff will be availableprior to, during and after a scheduled practice as permitted by staffing constraints. Failure to notify theathletic training staff of practice times, or a future change in time could result in a cancellation of practice bythe athletic training office. Coverage issues which cannot be resolved between the coach and the assignedathletic trainer are to be reported to the VP/Director of Athletics and/or SWA by both parties.

All student-athletes must have medical clearance prior to participation in intercollegiate athletics. Incomingstudent-athletes must be seen by the Saint Leo team physician while all returners should make every attemptpossible to have his/her physical completed by a home physician (this excludes any Urgent Care, Chiropractoror Nurse Practitioner). These physicals will be arranged by the Saint Leo Sports Medicine staff.

All student-athletes are required to submit medical information via ARMS that includes the following:• Authorization for Communication• Risk & Liability Waiver• Secondary Insurance Acknowledgement• Medical History Form• HIPPA Form: Consent for Disclosure of Protected Health Info• Drug Testing Acknowledgment• ADHD and Associated Medications• Sickle Cell Waiver• Concussion Awareness Statement• Mental Health Questionnaire

All incoming students and select returners must complete an annual baseline concussion test. All student-athletes must provide Proof of Health Insurance – viable in Saint Leo, Florida. A clear photocopy of the front &back of insurance cards must be uploaded to his/her Sportsware Online account/profile.

**When physical, Sportsware Online Profile, Concussion Testing, Sports Med Packet, and InsuranceInformation have all been accurately completed & submitted to the Sports Medicine Staff, then theathlete will be medically cleared to participate in sports activity via ARMS.**

Student-athletes wishing to walk-on or try-out for team must meet with the Head Coach, who will then beresponsible for submitting all required paperwork. It is the coaches’ responsibility to gather, complete andsubmit all Walk-on/Try-out paperwork to the compliance office in advance. All try-outs must providedocumentation of a physical obtained within 12 months of the start of the sport season. Try-outs who makethe team will then be required to submit all additional paperwork prior to resuming participation with theteam that is mentioned above as part of the medical clearance process for all student-athletes.

Participation in varsity athletics carries with it a risk of injury. The following areas describe the coverageprovided to student-athletes injured while participating in a required athletically related activity – injuriesoutside athletically related participation in a varsity sport (e.g. intramural and club sport injuries) are notcovered by the athletic department sports medicine insurance policy although these injuries must be reportedto the athletic training staff for participation clearance (see below).

All athletic injuries occurring to a student-athlete participating in a varsity athletically related activity arecovered by the athletic department insurance policy once the student-athletes’ insurance has paid the initialclaim for each occurrence– this includes illness that can be directly traced to participation in intercollegiateathletics. Illness or injury sustained by student-athletes while participating in non-departmental activities(e.g. intramurals, etc.) is not covered.

As a result of the athletic department insurance policy not extending to non-varsity participation injuries orillness student-athletes should have primary insurance for complete coverage of injury and illness. Student-athletes who choose not to purchase the Saint Leo University insurance policy must provide proof ofinsurance with a US based address and claims address prior to participation.

The athletic department is not responsible for the cost andcoordination of normal dental or vision care – althoughtreatment of this nature must be reported to the athletictraining staff. The sports medicine staff will assist thestudent-athlete in obtaining care for injuries sustained tothe teeth or eyes as a result of participation. Referrals willbe made to the appropriate specialist by the sportsmedicine staff.

– All claims for an athletic injury will be filedagainst the athlete’s personal insurance policy first. Theathletic department policy, separate from the Saint LeoUniversity policy available for purchase, will completepayment of any remaining balance related to theathletically related injury – according to policy guidelines. Itwill be the responsibility of the student-athlete to submitbills to the primary policy, if one exists (outside personalpolicy if the student-athlete did not purchase Saint Leocoverage). Note: the department carries NCAA CatastrophicInsurance and Gap Coverage.Notification – The athletic training staff will inform eachstudent-athlete and his/her guardian as to the insurancepolicies of the athletic department. The student-athleteand/or guardian (if under the age of 18) will be asked tosign a form confirming receipt of this information andunderstanding of the policy.

It is mandatory for student-athletes to report all injuries and illnesses (including common cold, asthma attackswhile not at practice or competition, injuries incurred during personal time, etc.) to the head coach and sportsmedicine staff. The head coach is to follow-up with the athletic training staff to ensure solid communication ofinjuries and illness. Athletic trainers will then follow-up with any medical attention sought by the student-athlete for the outside injury or illness – student-athletes seeking outside medical attention are required totake Saint Leo Sports Medicine medical forms with them and to keep the Saint Leo Sports Medicine staffapprised of all medical treatment. Once injured, student-athletes are not to practice again until cleared by thesports medicine staff.

Student-athletes injured during varsity participation must report the injury to the sports medicine staffimmediately, regardless of severity (e.g. stubbed toe to broken nose). The coaching staff is to help facilitatethis communication. No injury known to the coach is to go unreported to the athletic training staff.

Any student-athlete who has suffered a disturbance of vision, consciousness, orientation, back or neck injury,breathing difficulty, possible loss of joint integrity, musculoskeletal deformity and/or dysfunction, significantbleeding, or significant health related problems should be referred to the sports medicine staff on the day ofthe occurrence or disclosure (e.g. if a student-athlete injures him/herself on Sunday and tells the coachMonday, the coach must report the injury to the athletic training staff on Monday).

All athletics personnel associated with practices, competitions, skill instruction and strength and conditioningare required to obtain yearly certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) techniques, first aid andcomplete defibrillation training program.

The sports medicine staff will medically clear each student-athlete prior to the first date of practice. Any injuryor illness that takes place thereafter will require another clearance from the athletic training staff.Comprehensive medical records will be maintained in the athletic training office for all student-athletes. Thesports medicine staff, in cooperation with physician orders, is the final authority on when an injured or illathlete may return to practice or competition.

Medical information may be released only upon authorization of the student-athlete.Student-athletes provide this authorization by signing the HIPPA form.

The athletic training room is equipped to provide many treatment plans, and those treatment plans will belogged daily by the sports medicine staff. Those treatment plans which the athletic training room canaccommodate should be performed “in-house” under the supervision of a licensed and certified athletictrainer staff. Student-athletes who choose to use outside treatment or rehabilitation facilities must notify theSaint Leo sports medicine staff prior to the 1st visit. Student-athletes will become inactive should they fail toadhere to this provision until cleared by the Sports Medicine staff.

Saint Leo’s team physicians are Dr. Byron Moran (Sports Medicine Primary Care), Dr. Charles Nofsinger(Orthopedic) and Dr. Delbert Remaley (Orthopedic). Injured student-athletes will see the team physicians asdirected by the overseeing athletic trainer, who will examine the student-athlete for athletic injuries, providediagnostic testing (e.g. X-ray, Bone Scan, MRI, etc.), make a diagnosis and prescribe a treatment plan. Thephysician and athletic trainer will make the necessary arrangements for further care of the student-athlete.

The athletic training staff MUST be notified prior to any medical treatment unless it includes an emergency.This includes but is not limited to medical attention from personal doctor, dentist appointment, cosmetictreatment, etc. Lack of proper communication and notification could result in personal responsibility for anyfinancial charges incurred. Any medical treatment sought by a student-athlete must go through the sportsmedicine staff. Student-athletes will become inactive should they fail to adhere to this provision until clearedby the Sports Medicine staff.

Student-athletes are allowed to seek a second opinion from any medical personnel; however, the athletictraining staff must be notified of additional medical assessment prior to the visit. Student-athletes will nolonger be covered by their insurance policy if not properly adhered to. A referral is required.

Saint Leo Athletics is committed to the prevention,identification, evaluation and management of concussions.The concussion management plan establishes 1) that allstudent-athletes and coaches will receive education regardingthe nature of concussions and the steps to take when aconcussion is suspect; 2) all student-athletes will receivebaseline measurement in preseason to determine their normalperformance on tests of balance, cognitive processing, andreaction time; 3) any student-athlete who appears to havesuffered a head trauma incident that may have produced aconcussion shall be removed from practice or competition andevaluated as soon as possible by a certified athletic trainerwith experience in the evaluation and management ofconcussion. In cases that appear positive for concussion, thestudent-athlete will be referred for follow-up balance andcognitive testing, and medical evaluation. Student-athletesdiagnosed with a concussion shall not return to activity untilcleared by the team physician or their designee according tothe Saint Leo Sports Medicine concussion management plan.

In addition, student-athletes must sign a statement in whichthey accept the responsibility for reporting their injuries andillnesses to the certified athletic trainers, including signs andsymptoms of concussions

Saint Leo Athletics is committed to the education, prevention and management of heat illness. All coaches andstudent-athletes will receive education regarding the prevention, presentation and management of heatillnesses. Any athlete who is suspected to be suffering from a potential heat illness will be evaluated via rectalthermometry with activation of emergency medical services. Before any student-athlete can return toparticipation he/she must be cleared by Saint Leo’s team physician and undergo appropriate return to playprotocol.

In case of emergency while on a road trip, if an athlete is sent and/or admitted to a hospital, a departmentalstaff member should accompany if possible and stay with the athlete until they are released. The head athletictrainer should be contacted immediately and start a phone tree beginning with the Athletic Director.Emergency information for each student-athlete must be available while traveling.

The Sport Medicine section of this manual is ainsert from the 2019-20 Sports MedicinePolicies and Procedures Handbook. For acomplete list of the Sports MedicineDepartment policies and procedures can beviewed online at saintleolions.com. Click on“Inside Athletics” tab, select the SportsMedicine tab, the link is at the bottom of thepage. You can also click on the cover page tothat is linked to the location of the handbook.

In case of an emergency situation involving individuals outside the realm of the athletic program, first aid willbe administered and further medical assistance will be summoned. Upon the arrival of said personnel, theathletic training staff will relinquish all handling of the situation to said personnel. No other treatment orevaluation will be offered or administered other than first aid. (Translation – the athletic training room is notopen to the public and the staff is not covered to provide individuals outside the department with medical carebeyond first aid).

The athletics communication department acts as a liaison between members of the Saint Leo AthleticDepartment and the media. The Director of Athletics Communication will develop and maintain positiveworking relationships with local and national members of the media. In order to eliminate potential problems,it is required that those who wish to speak with coaches and/or student-athletes go through the athleticscommunication department.

All requests to speak with student-athletes must go through the athletics communication office. This includesthe off-season interviews with hometown media. Student-athletes are NOT to speak to media from theirpersonal cell phones. All interviews with student-athletes must be conducted either in-person or via phoneconversation in the coach’s office or the athletics communication office with the coach or an athleticscommunication staff member present. This is non-negotiable and for the protection of the student-athlete.Coaches will be informed when their student-athletes are being contacted by a member of the media. Coachesare not to release any personal contact information for student-athletes.

All student-athlete information is confidential. The athletics communication staff will not release any phonenumbers, e-mail addresses, physical addresses, class schedules, etc. of any student-athletes to anyone.Although this information is not released, each coach is required to supply this information to the athleticscommunication staff for purposes of contacting student-athletes on special occasions.

Music played prior to, during and after home events is for fans and student-athletes. This music should notcontain any expletives or suggestive lyrics. At least seven days prior to the first home event, the team shouldprovide the Athletics Communications office a list of songs and each song’s artist(s) or a list of songs that canbe found on iTunes. An Athletics Communication staff member will then go through the list to determinewhich songs should be complied on the playlist. The final playlist comes to at the discretion of athleticscommunication and external relations. The playlist will not be altered during a warm-up or halftime and willonly be upgraded 48 hours prior to the next event, after review of the suggested songs. The team’s choice ofmusic can be whatever while gates are closed but once gates are open, the music will switch to more fanfriendly.

All action shots and drama shots that the athletics communication and external relations departments gatherthroughout your specific sport season are disseminated after the final season contest. Photos that are loadedon Twitter, Instagram, or as a Facebook album are fair game and the student-athletes are permitted to save andupload on their personal accounts to help promote the University. Stopping by the athletics communication orexternal relations departments to ask for photos throughout the year is prohibited; requests after the seasonmust come through the coach.

If student-athletes are not present at their scheduled photo day,they should notify their coach. If the student-athlete is unableto attend a later photo day, the student-athlete will not havetheir picture appear on saintleolions.com. It is the coach’sresponsibility to ensure all student-athletes participate in thisprocess.

It is not the role of a parent or student-athlete to argue statistics. Anydisagreement must be brought to the student-athlete’s coach who will addressthe issue through the appropriate channels.

Social networks have grown in popularity within the past few years and are used by millions of students, fans,alumni, faculty, businesses, and the media. While social networking websites are a great way tocommunicate, express yourself and connect with others, it is advised that you are cautious about theinformation and pictures you post (or others post about you), as they may adversely affect your personalsafety, personal and institutional reputation, and career advancement. The Saint Leo Athletic Departmentexpects all student-athletes to maintain the highest standards of social and personal conduct.

Saint Leo supports your First Amendment rights to free speech, however please be mindful of the materialposted to social networking sites since you are a representative of the University and are in the public eye.While participating in social networking sites, please keep the following guidelines in mind:

• The information posted can be viewed by a larger audience than you might be aware of – even if you limitaccess to your site (private).

• Exercise caution as to what information you post on your website including posts about yourwhereabouts, plans, where you live, phone numbers or any other personal information. You could beopening yourself up to predators or stalkers. In addition, many people are looking to take advantage ofstudent-athletes, while others seek connections with student-athletes to give them a sense ofmembership in the team.

• Future employers may check Google or other social networks to gather information on potentialcandidates. Use common sense when publishing anything on the Internet.

• Think twice before posting, you may think you can post something in 2016 and by 2023 it’s gone, take forexample any issues in pro sports with how the media digs up previous tweets or posts, employers can dothis as well.

As a Saint Leo student- athlete, you will be held responsible for any actions that are deemed inappropriateand compromise the integrity of the institution and your sport. In addition, you are accountable for anybehaviors that violate federal and state laws, NCAA, Sunshine State Conference, University, Team, andAthletics Department policies. Violating any of the above can result in discipline, team suspension,termination from your team, and reduction or non-renewal of annual athletic scholarship.

Examples of inappropriate or offensive behaviors may include depictions or presentations of the following:• Hazing• Use of alcohol• Use of drugs• Lewd or lascivious behavior• Communication with sport agents• Slander• Access to valuable team information that promotes sports gambling

All student-athletes and employees are encouraged to promote Saint Leo Athletics on social media byfollowing @SAINTLEOLIONS on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook and subscribing to the Saint Leo LionsYouTube channel.

Our Strength & Conditioning program aims to assist student athletes in maximizing the overall growth andathletic potential over the entire length of their collegiate career. Through comprehensive, research-basedprogram design and application, it is our goal to reduce the potential for injury, and increase athleticperformance. The training environment is intentionally designed to be both mentally and physicallychallenging as to best replicate the physiological and psychological demands of competition.

In the Strength and Conditioning Department, the focus is on developing the complete athlete usingproven scientific methods and innovations to give each athlete the best training. The Strength andConditioning Staff is constantly evolving with the changing demands of today’s sports to help ensure theathletes stay healthy and perform at their peak potential.

• Movement patterns are assessed and deficiencies are identified and corrected, using correctiveexercises before proceeding to more advanced training protocols.

• Progressive routines are implemented to ensure core and posterior chain strength is adequate tosupport the movements required by the sport.

• Strength, speed and power are developed using free weight movements, such as Olympic variations,multi joint power movements, and plyometrics.

• The latest evidence-based speed development methods are used to increase linear speed, acceleration,deceleration and agility.

• The strength and conditioning staff focuses on developing sport specific strength and speed thattranslates into improved performance on the field or court.

• Mental toughness is trained through strict discipline and challenging obstacles that student-athletesmust overcome individually and in team settings.

• We will strive be leaders in the industry, providing exemplary service to our student-athletes along withbeing at the forefront in current advances in the sports performance field.

The Strength and Conditioning Staff works closely with the Sports Medicine Staff to enhance injuryprevention and return to play exercise. Discussions between the staffs take place on a daily basis in whichthe needs of each athlete are reviewed and a plan is developed to minimize the risk of injury and todecrease the time away from competition.

The Strength and Conditioning Facility is the epicenter for the student-athlete’s physical development. Itprovides student-athletes the opportunity to train in a facility dedicated to their success and withequipment in place for the sole purpose of improving athletic performance. In addition, these student-athletes have access to a staff dedicated to providing them the support to reach their peak physicaldevelopment.

There are many awards and honors for student-athletes who distinguish themselves academically.

The President’s Club honors those students who are in the top 10percent of all student-athletes. Those students each semester will behonored the following semester with a luncheon attended by thefaculty, athletic administration staff and University President.

The National College Athlete Honor Society honors those students whohave attended at least 5 full time semesters; at least one year on ourcampus – with a cum GPA of at least a 3.50 and who have beennominated by their coach. New members will be recognized during theGreen & Gold Awards presentation in the spring semester.

The Sunshine State Conference (SSC) and the NCAA also honor student-athletes who establish academic records. SSC All-Academic teams areannounced twice each year to give exposure to student-athletes whocompete in SSC competition and excel in both classroom and theplaying field. To be named to the Commissioner’s Honor Roll astudent-athlete must earn a 3.2 during their respective season.

The NCAA Postgraduate Scholarship awards financial aid to outstandingstudent-athletes who plan to continue their education in a professionalor graduate school. The deadlines for each sport vary so check withthe FAR for your area if you feel you would qualify.

All student-athletes who complete their eligibility will receive aparticipation award.

When a team wins a conference championship, the team will receivean award celebrating this success in addition to tee shirts and a trophyprovided by the conference office.

A Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) was formed in 1995 to serve as a liaison between the athleticteams and Athletic Department at Saint Leo University. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, comprisedof representatives from all sponsored intercollegiate sports, meets to discuss and review the concerns andissues of contemporary student-athletes. An advisor will be chosen to work with the students inconjunction with the Associate Athletic Director.

The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee:• Provides a means of communication between student-athletes and the Department of Athletics

Administration• Provide to opportunity to develop leadership skills• Provide feedback and insight into athletics department issues• Solicits student-athletes responses to proposed conference and NCAA legislation• Builds and encourages a sense of community within the athletics program involving all athletics teams• Promotes and supports athletics at Saint Leo University

One representatives from each team form the committee. Each member has one vote inall matters before the committee.

Election: Their respective coaches meet with the SAAC Advisor to choose their committee representative.Each member serves a one-year term. In the spring of each year, teams select their representatives for theupcoming year.

Any student is eligible for appointment. All interested students are encouraged to get involved. Carefullyconsider academic and athletic responsibilities before making the additional commitment to membership onthe committee.

1. Attend all committee meetings and activities.2. If unable to attend, to select a responsible alternate team representative.3. Represent team views at the committee meeting. Team representative must talk to their teammatesabout issues or projects that will be discussed at committee meetings.4. Report to the team and the coach on the committee meetings and distribute the minutes of the meeting.5. Organize team members to help with special projects such as “Make-A-Wish”.6. Help plan and set-up Annual Awards Banquet.

At the first meeting each fall, the committee will assign by election or consensus certainresponsibilities to committee members:1. President: Chairs all committee meetings and acts as the official representative of the committee.2. Vice President: Assists the President and organizes sub-committees. Sub-committee chairpersons reportsto Vice President.3. Secretary: Records the minutes of all meetings.4. Committee Chairs: Organize committees for special projects.

• Bylaw 13.1.1.2 Four-Year College Prospective Student-Athlete: An athletics staff member or otherrepresentative of the institution’s athletics interests shall not make contact with the student-athleteof an NCAA collegiate institution, directly or indirectly without first obtaining the written permissionof the first institution’s athletics director. If permission is not granted, the second institution shall notencourage the transfer and shall not provide athletically related financial assistance to the student-athlete until the student-athlete has attended the second institution for one academic year.

• Bylaw 14.5.5.1 General Rule: A transfer student from a four-year institution shall not be eligible forintercollegiate competition at a member institution until the student has fulfilled a residencerequirement of one full academic year (two full semesters or three full quarters) at the certifyinginstitution.

• Saint Leo University grants one-time transfer exceptions on a case by case basis. A request forpermission to contact or the one-time transfer exception must be submitted in writing to the Directorof Athletics. If that initial request is denied, a student-athlete may request an appeal through theSpecial Assistant to the President.

*Please keep in mind that the permission to contact doesn’t mean you have approval for one-timetransfer exception.

A student-athlete who transfers from one SSC institution directly to another SSC institution shall not be eligiblefor intercollegiate competition until that student-athlete has fulfilled a residence requirement of two fullacademic years (four full semesters or six full quarters) at the certifying institution. Further, a transferstudent-athlete admitted after the 12th class cannot utilize that semester or quarter for the purpose ofestablishing residency. Any combination of collegiate attendance/non-attendance in the interim betweentransferring from one SSC institution to another must equal the equivalent of two full academic years. Allother NCAA and SSC eligibility, satisfactory progress and transfer-rule requirements also must be met in orderfor the student-athlete to be certified for intercollegiate competition.

There are two different processes to request for permission to contact. During the academic year the student-athlete must inform the Compliance office in person or via e-mail at marcal.Lazenby@saintleo.edu , that theywish to request permission to contact. Once the request is made the Compliance office will assign thePermission to Contact workflow in ARMS to the student-athlete. The student-athlete will be responsible forproviding the appropriate information in the workflow. Outside of the academic year or during theinstitutional vacation period the student-athlete must send a e-mail to the VP/ Director of Athletics via e-mailat fran.reidy@saintleo.edu of their request for permission to contact.

*Please keep in mind that the permission to contact doesn’t mean you have approval for one-time transfer exception.