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PARENT & STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK 2025-2026 1 Message

Table of Contents Athletic Department Information 1. Statement of Purpose 4 2. Message to Parents and Student-Athletes 4 3. Philosophy of Athletics 4 4. Athletic Mission 5 Participation Information 5. Athletic Forms Required for Participation 5 6. Expectation of Student-Athletes 5 7. Sportsmanship 6 8. Tryouts 6 9. Team Cuts 6 10. Dual Sport Policy 7 11. Eligibility 7 12. Pay to Participate Program 8 13. Attendance Policy 8 14. Transportation Guidelines 9 15. Locker Rooms 9 16. Athletic Equipment and Uniform Responsibilities 10 17. Standards for Athletic Awards 11 Communication 18. Communication Expectations 12 19. Grievance Procedure 13 20. Moving on to Collegiate Athletics 13 Student-Athlete Conduct 21. Student-Athlete Conduct 14 22. Hazing 14 23. Harassment 15 24. Alcohol and Drug Policies 15 25. Cheating 15 26. Stealing and Vandalism 15 27. Criminal Activities 15 28. Self/Parental Referral 16 29. Social Media Guidelines 16 30. Discipline Procedure 16 Medical and Safety Information 31. Athletic Trainer 17 32. Athletic Medical Insurance 17 33. Physical Examination 17 34. Risk of Participation 17 35. Medical Release Required After Injury 17 36. Inclimate Weather 17 37. Concussion Regulations 18 38. Return to Play Protocol 18 39. Coaches Requirements (Concussion) 19 40. Contest Officials Requirements (Concussion) 19 41. Student and Parent Requirements (Concussion) 19 42. Approved Online Concussion Courses 19 43. Frequently Asked Questions 20-21 44. NFHS Suggested Medical Clearance Protocol 22 45. Quick Links from Ohio Department of Health 22 46. Additional Concussion Resources 22 47. Heat Policy 23 48. Inclimate Weather Policy 24 49. Criteria for Returning to Practice/Game Area 24 2

ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT INFORMATION 1. Personnel Title Name Phone Number Email Athletic Director Zach Stakely 513-824-7421 zstakely@trlsd.org Administrative Assistant Keri Harper 513-824-7421 kharper@trlsd.org Department Assistant Chris Helfer 513-467-3200 chelfer@trlsd.org Department Assistant Mark Murphy 513-467-3500 mmurphy@trlsd.org Department Assistant Aaron Wilson -- -- Athletic Trainer Jacob Matre 513-824-7421 sportsmedicine@trlsd.org 2. Additional Information Address 56 Cooper Ave // Cleves, OH 45002 School Phone 513-467-3200 School Fax 513-467-0138 Enrollment 482 (OHSAA) Mascot Yellowjackets Colors Black, Gold Affiliations OHSAA - Class AA Southwest District Cincinnati Hills League Websites www.taylorathletics.org www.threeriversschools.org www.chlsports.com threeriversschools.org Social Media Facebook @tayloryjad Instagram @tayloryjad Twitter @tayloryjad 3

1. Statement of Purpose 1.1. Information in this handbook is designed as a set of guidelines, rules, and responsibilities for Taylor students in grades 7-12. Values such as good sportsmanship, integrity, character, education, a winning attitude, and the complete development of the individual in team and individual settings shall be promoted. We believe athletics truly are a major part of a well-rounded educational experience. We are intentionally making efforts to foster a family atmosphere in our athletic programs. By “family” we mean student-athletes, parents, coaches, and school administration and staff working together to develop responsibility and accountability. Our goal is to develop and promote what the Ohio High School Athletic Association calls Clique I (top notch) athletes, parents, and coaches. Let us work together to make athletics at Taylor a meaningful educational experience. 1.2. This handbook is adopted pursuant to Section 3313.664 of the Ohio Revised Code. 1.3. The purpose of this handbook is to give student-athletes and other interested persons a guide to the operation of the Interscholastic Athletic Program of Taylor HS/MS. 1.4. Student athletes are obligated to conform to the “Student Code of Conduct” as established by the Three Rivers Board of Education. Student athletes are also obligated to conform to the training rules and policies established by the Taylor Athletic Department and specific rules and regulations as established by the coaches of each specific sport. 1.5. Student athletes are expected to adhere to the mentioned rules, regulations, and policies during their season of participation. The sport season will begin with the first day of practice for a given sport and conclude with the final contest and the awards program for that sport (whichever comes last). 1.6. It must be understood by all student-athletes and parents/guardians that a condition to participating in the Taylor Athletic program is a commitment to follow the rules, regulations, policies and procedures established by the District for the implementation of its athletic program. It must also be understood that athletes and cheerleaders who violate the rules, regulations, policies and procedures shall face disciplinary action. Participation in a Taylor athletic program(s) is a privilege and not a right. 2. Message to Parents and Student-Athletes 2.1. This handbook is available to you because your son or daughter has indicated a desire to participate in interscholastic athletics, and you have expressed your willingness to permit him/her to compete. We are pleased with your interest in the athletic program. We believe that a comprehensive program of student activities is vital to the educational development of our students. 2.2. Participating in an athletic program is a privilege. Athletes are held to higher standards in the classroom, on the field, and in the community. You are representing many people, including past athletes, your family, the community, the school, your coaches, and fellow athletes. Your involvement in athletics can be very rewarding. 2.3. As an athlete, you have to carry yourself with tremendous pride. You must wear the uniform proudly. Your actions constantly reflect on others. You must realize that you are a role model for the younger members of the community. As an athlete, you have an opportunity to set a good example for those who follow you. 2.4. As students elect to participate, there are many questions that both you and your son/daughter may have regarding the athletic program. The purpose of this handbook is to answer as many questions about the policies of the program as possible (i.e. keep students and parents as informed as possible in order to assist in making the athletic experience a positive one for our student-athletes). We are hopeful that this handbook will be of assistance to you as your child participates in the athletic program. 3. Philosophy of Athletics 3.1. The Three Rivers Local School District believes that participation in sports provides a wealth of opportunity and experience that assists students in personal growth, self-expression, mental alertness, and physical growth. The Taylor Athletic Department strives to provide a positive environment dedicated to achieving excellence in athletic and academic performance and inspiring personal development, which prepares student-athletes to benefit society in a lasting and meaningful way. 3.2. Athletics play an important part in the life of Taylor Athletes. Young people learn a great deal from their participation in interscholastic athletics. Lessons in sportsmanship, teamwork, competition and how to win and lose gracefully are an integral part of each team in our athletic program. Athletics also play an important part in helping the individual student develop a healthy self-concept as well as a healthy body. Athletic competition adds to our school spirit and helps all students-spectators as well as participants-develop pride in our school. 4

4. Athletic Mission 4.1. Ensure a high quality, comprehensive program founded on uncompromised integrity. ● Meet and exceed the spirit of Taylor, Cincinnati Hills League and Ohio High School Athletic Association. ● Encourage honesty and ethical standards in interactions with all persons. ● Insist on high moral standards for athletes that include fairness, character and respect for others. 4.2. Achieve the total development of the student-athlete. ● Emphasize positive interaction and relationship-building with fellow students. ● Emphasize intellectual growth leading to graduation and a productive life thereafter. ● Emphasize athletic achievement in interscholastic competition. ● Emphasize service to the community. 4.3. Enhance the academic mission of the school district. ● Complement classroom experiences. ● Provide an opportunity of positive statewide exposure for the district through athletic accomplishments that contribute to the overall success of the school. PARTICIPATION 5. Athletic Forms Required for Participation 5.1. Before a student may participate in any sport, including conditioning, tryouts, and practices, he/she must provide an updated Sports Physical and all forms must be completed using the on-line system provided by finalforms. This is the only way to complete the necessary forms to participate. Visit https://threerivers-oh.finalforms.com/students to get started. 6. Expectations of Student-Athletes 6.1. Student athletes participating on a team “in season” are expected to attend all practices and contests for that “in season” team. The “in season” team takes precedence over all “out of season” programs and activities. 6.2. A student-athlete quitting an athletic activity may not participate in a new sport activity until the completion of the specific sport season. (If coaches agree that it is in the best interest for the athlete to switch sports, this regulation may be waived.) 6.3. Athletes are expected to attend the awards program to complete their sport season and receive their recognition/awards. Any awards not picked up within two weeks of the sports award ceremony will be unavailable unless extenuating circumstances prevented receipt of awards in a timely manner. 6.4. Student athletes are responsible for returning all equipment issued to them during the sport season. Their equipment must be returned in the same condition it was handed out. The student-athlete will be financially responsible for any lost equipment. All equipment must be turned in before the student-athlete can participate in another sport. 6.5. A “season” is defined as that period of time from the date of the first practice session, as allowed by the OHSAA, through the end of the athletic season or sports awards recognition. 6.6. Participants who are a constant discipline problem in school or on a team may be dismissed from the remainder of the season from all participation privileges by the team’s coach or school administration. Coaches also reserve the right to select team rosters and may choose to deny participation rights to any athlete who is consistently a discipline challenge even if the sport team is usually recognized as a “non-cut” team. 6.7. Student athletes are expected to attend practices and contests. An unexcused missed practice will result in sitting a minimum ½ a contest. Two unexcused missed practices will result in sitting a minimum 1 contest. The third unexcused practice will result in being removed from the team. 5

7. Sportsmanship 7.1. Because the players are respected and admired, they exert a great deal of influence over the actions and behavior of the spectators. Their display of sportsmanship is to be expected, encouraged, and rewarding. The following sportsmanlike behavior is to be adhered to by our players. ● Shake hands with opponents before (leaders) and after the game. ● Respect the official’s judgment in interpretation of the rules. Never argue or indicate a dislike for a decision. ● Accept both victory and defeat without being boastful or bitter. Be gracious whether the team wins or loses. ● Cooperate with the coach and fellow players in promoting good sportsmanship. ● Accept seriously the responsibility and privilege of representing the school and the community. 7.2. We believe that being a spectator is a “privilege” and not a “right”. It is a privilege to watch an educational process where teams demonstrate what they have learned in the athletic classroom. Spectators will be held accountable for good sportsmanship. Spectators should conduct themselves in an appropriate manner for a sporting contest among young athletes. Responsible administrators or their designee at all events (home or away) reserve the right to remove a spectator from an athletic facility for inappropriate, unsportsmanlike behavior. Any spectator ejected from a Three Rivers Local School District athletic event will be required to meet with the Athletic Director and complete NFHS training before returning to any other athletic event. 8. Tryouts 8.1. Tryouts for sports activities will occur on the first day(s) of practice as mandated by the OHSAA. Conditioning may be held prior to the first official day of practice. Attendance at conditioning is not mandatory, but a coach may take attendance. Conditioning is offered to the athlete as a helping head start for the rigorous training during the season. Athletes are expected to be present for the first day of tryouts unless extenuating circumstances exist. The coach and/or athletic director must approve these circumstances, such as an injury. After tryouts are completed, an athlete cannot join an athletic team unless approved by the athletic director and/or principal via a petition by the coach and/or parents. All tryouts are to be of such a length that coaches can make an accurate assessment of any potential player’s abilities, attitude and temperament. The tryout shall be of such length that any potential player may have the proper time to exhibit their abilities to the coaches in order to demonstrate their potential as a member of a team. 8.2. The Coach has the authority to excuse or re-schedule a student-athlete from the designated try-out period due to illness, injuries or other extenuating circumstances 9. Team Cuts 9.1. The Three Rivers Local School District Board of Education and the Taylor High School Athletic Department are committed to providing each and every student-athlete who wishes to participate in an activity with a place on a team. Whenever possible the Athletic Department sponsors teams at every competitive level (7th, 8th, 9th, JV and Varsity). However, due to the limitations of some sports, cuts may be unavoidably necessary. It is the coach’s responsibility to determine who may be denied participation privileges. 9.2. The criteria for determining “cuts” may be taken from the following: ● Overall athletic ability ● Mastery of athletic skills necessary in that sport ● Academic eligibility ● Age limitation eligibility ● Disciplinary record ● Attendance record ● Any other factors which the coach deems relevant to the makeup of his/her team coaches may have to cut players from their teams. 9.3. If a coach has to cut, he or she shall first discuss the issue with the A.D. Coaches will explain to players the first day of practice how cuts will be determined. The coach will meet individually with players in a private conference to discuss their status on the team. Coaches shall not post a list of cuts or players that have made the team. Parents should NOT purchase expensive clothing or equipment until they are certain that their son or daughter has made the team. 6

10. Dual Sport Policy 10.1. A student-athlete wishing to play two sports during the same season (example: soccer and cross country) must discuss this with the head coaches of the two teams involved. If both coaches agree that the practice schedules and game schedules can be worked out for the student-athlete to play two sports, and the student-athlete feels that he/she is willing to commit to this demanding schedule, then that student-athlete may participate in both sports during the same season. The coaches involved must make sure that the parents of this student-athlete are well aware of all practice and game arrangements prior to the season beginning. The coaches involved must discuss this situation with the Athletic Director at the time of the initial request by the student-athlete. The athlete must select his/her primary sport and must attend all practices and games scheduled for that sport. 11. Eligibility 11.1. Below is a list of eligibility requirements for participation in athletics at Taylor: ● No student shall be kept from participation in athletics at Taylor due to his or her race, religious beliefs, gender or socioeconomic status. ● Students are required to meet certain academic requirements as set forth by the local board of education and the Ohio High School Athletic Association. 11.2. Taylor High School (Grades 9-12) ● According to O.H.S.A.A. Bylaw 4-4-1. During the preceding grade period, a student must have received a passing grade in a minimum of five (5) one-credit courses or the equivalent, which count toward graduation. Taylor Student-Athletes are also required to have a minimum of a 1.0 grade point average for the preceding grading period to be eligible. Grades earned during the 4th quarter determine eligibility for the 1st quarter of the next school year. ● In accordance with OHSAA Bylaw 4-4-3. A student enrolled in the first grading period after advancement from the eighth grade must have passed 5 of those subjects carried the preceding grading period in which the student was enrolled. ○ Summer School grades earned may not be substituted for failing grades from the last grading period of the regular school year. ● Per OHSAA Bylaw 4-2-1, Once a student attains the age of 20, the student will no longer be eligible for interscholastic athletic competition notwithstanding where that 20th birthday falls in relation to the sports season. ○ Those with a disability may qualify for an exception to this regulation and should arrange a meeting with the principal or athletic administrator to review the exception. ● After a student completes the eighth grade, the student shall be eligible for a period not to exceed eight semesters taken in order of attendance, whether the student participates or not. A student in grade 7 or 8 who attains the age of 15 before August 1 shall be eligible only at the high school level for a period not to exceed eight semesters taken in order of attendance, whether the student participates or not. 11.3. Taylor Middle School (Grades 7-8) ● A student enrolled in the first grading period after advancement from the eighth grade must have passed a minimum of four of all subjects carried the immediately preceding grading period in which the student was enrolled. ● A student enrolling in the seventh grade for the first time will be eligible for the first grading period regardless of previous academic achievement. Thereafter, in order to be eligible, a student in grade 7 or 8 must be currently enrolled and must have been enrolled in school the immediately preceding grading period and received passing grades at the conclusion of that grading period in a minimum of four of those subjects in which the student received grades. ● Summer school and other educational options may not be used to bring a student into compliance with Bylaws 4-4-1, 4-4-4 or 4-4-5. ● Seventh- and eighth-grade students who turn 15 years of age prior to August 1st are ineligible for 7th-8th grade athletics but are eligible to participate in high school athletics. ● Those with a disability may qualify for an exception to this regulation and should arrange a meeting with the principal or athletic administrator to review the exception. 7

12. Pay to Participate Program for Extra-Curricular Activities 12.1. Pay to Participate Fee schedule: ● High School Sports $190 per sport per season (Cheerleading $100) ● Middle School Sports $80 per sport per season (Cheerleading $50) ● Fall Fees Due: August 21, 2025 ● Winter Fees Due: January 1st, 2026 ● Spring Fees Due: March 27, 2026 12.2. Participation fees shall be collected by each coach or advisor and turned in to the athletic office to help defray the cost of extra-curricular activities in Three Rivers School District. Fees may also be paid on-line by the designated system established by the athletic department. The on-line designated system is https://www.payschoolscentral.com/ 12.3. These fees will be supplemental only; they do not cover the entire cost of the program offered. Fees made by check or money order must be payable to: Taylor High School Athletic Department. Receipts can be issued for cash payments via payschools. Coaches and/or sponsors are responsible for tracking students’ payments and for counting and turning in money on a daily basis. 12.4. All pay to participate fees must be paid by the first contest. Pay to participate fees not paid by the end of the season will be turned over to the front office and placed on school owed fees. A student will not be permitted to play the next season of athletics until the previous season's fees are paid. 12.5. Parents experiencing hardship may fill out a Confidential Fee Application to assist the family with participation fees.This does not guarantee that assistance will be provided. In some cases, requirements must be met in order to receive assistance. 12.6. Families with students in grades 7-12 with over $1000.00 in Athletic Participation fees (This excludes Dance) are eligible to submit an application for a fee waiver to the Taylor High School Athletic Director. ● The on-line waiver application for 12.5 and 12.6: https://forms.gle/TpgwK5zid5h9VfQy5 13. Attendance Policy for Extra-Curricular Activities 13.1. To practice, participate in or attend a school sponsored event, performance, or extracurricular contest, the student must have a school approved excused absence. ● If the event is to be held on Saturday, the student must be present in school on theFridayprior to thatSaturday or have a school approved excused absence. ● If a student is suspended, expelled or is attending alternative school (including BIC), the student will not be permitted to participate in athletic events or practice. ● Should a student’s suspension conclude on a Friday, the student will not be permitted to participate in athletic events or practice until the following Monday. 13.2. Frequent late arrivals to school may result in removal from the extracurricular activity. 13.3. Missing Practice ● An athlete should consult the coach before missing practice and make every attempt to speak to the coach personally when unable to attend practice or a competition. Unexcused absences from practices or games will be addressed by the team’s coach. (Sudden illness or other emergencies are excusable absences.) 13.4. Vacation Policy ● At times during the school year, the opportunity for a vacation may become available. The athlete must consider the commitment made to the sports team at the start of the season and realize that fulfilling the commitment may require certain sacrifices. ● If traveling during the season is unavoidable, the athlete must: ● Be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. ● Inform the coach of vacation plans prior to the start of the season. ● Be willing to assume the consequences related to their status on the squad as a starter, playing time etc. ● Athletes and parents must realize taking vacations during mandatory tryouts will jeopardize the chances of making a team and/or their play time during the season. 13.5. Exceptions made with administrative approval: ● Illness in the family ● Death of a relative ● Observance of a religious holiday ● Verified doctor or dentist appointment ● Emergency or set of circumstances judged as sufficient cause by school authorities. The appropriate building administrator may excuse absence for “personal reasons” prior to the date of absence. 8

14. Transportation Guidelines 14.1. Student-Athletes must ride to and from all interscholastic contests via transportation arranged by the Taylor Athletic Department. They will be released to their parents at the game site only under special circumstances and with the coach’s authorization. Under no circumstances may an athlete ride home with another student. 14.2. The self-transport form must be completed prior to the student-athlete being released to their parent or guardian at the contest, or 24 hours prior to the event should it be a self-transport situation to the event. 14.3. Noise is a definite safety factor. Keep all conversations, radios, and victory celebrations to reasonable safe levels. 14.4. Athletes should remain in their seats at all times. 14.5. State Law ORC 3301-83-08 dictates that there is no food to be eaten on school buses. 14.6. Make sure the bus is in the same condition as when the trip began. Please take your trash with you at the conclusion of the trip. 14.7. Littering is a fineable offense. It reflects poorly on our entire program. DO NOT throw anything from the windows of your bus. 14.8. The bus driver is in charge of the bus and his/her directions must be followed the same as any teacher or coach. The driver is solely concerned with your safe transportation to and from the contest. 14.9. Insubordination toward a school bus driver will not be tolerated and will be dealt with under the misconduct section of training rules. 14.10. As an athletic department, we are dependent upon the cooperation of our transportation department if we are to meet our various scheduling demands. We definitely want to foster a positive working relationship with the transportation department by making every effort to be cooperative and courteous. 15. Locker Rooms and Personal Belongings 15.1. The Three Rivers Local School District and its employees are not responsible for any item left unattended in the locker rooms. All valuables should be properly stored and locked in lockers provided. It is the responsibility of students to store their valuables in a locked space. 15.2. The athletic locker rooms are designated for use primarily before and after scheduled practices and games. To ensure the security of personal belongings and maintain an orderly environment throughout the academic day, the locker rooms will be locked shortly after the first bell rings each morning and will remain inaccessible until the conclusion of the school day. Athletes needing access outside of these times should make arrangements with their coach or the athletic director in advance. Your cooperation in adhering to this policy is greatly appreciated. 9

16. Athletic Equipment and Uniform Responsibilities 16.1. As an athlete participating in interscholastic athletics at Taylor High School, you have the following responsibilities concerning school used uniforms and equipment items: ● It is extremely important that your equipment provides you the protection for which it was designed. It is your responsibility to periodically (at least weekly) examine your equipment for damage. Damaged equipment must be repaired BEFORE you compete or practice. You cannot be adequately protected with defective equipment. Bring all your equipment problems immediately to the attention of your coach for resolution. ● Your equipment and uniform are issued to you alone. You are responsible for the security of these items. Do not loan your equipment or uniform to others. Keep all items under lock. All school issued items will be numbered for inventory purposes. Equipment or uniform items that are lost, stolen or not returned are your financial responsibility. Athletes will have a minimum replacement cost of $100/per item, placed on their student fees. All uniforms must be returned. Athletes will not be assigned another school uniform until the other is returned or payment is made for the replacement. ● Care should be exercised in laundering uniforms. Read the manufacturer's label for washing instructions. At the completion of your season, please launder all school issued practice and game uniforms prior to off-season storage. ● During contests players’ uniforms are to be worn as specified by the coaches according to what is appropriate for that sport and that uniform. For example: Softball, Volleyball and most Football uniforms are not tucked in, while golf shirts, Basketball jerseys, and Baseball uniforms are all to be tucked in. These determinations are expressed by the coach at the beginning of the season, and will be included in a coach’s team rules and regulations. ● Players may not wear earrings or other jewelry while competing in their sport. This includes practices and scrimmages. ● During practices students are to wear proper attire. In the case a practice uniform is provided they are to wear the practice uniform. Coaches may make rules and establish consequences for those athletes who do not bring their practice clothes. Players are not to take shirts off during practice (no shirts vs. skins) and female athletes must wear appropriate tops over sports bras. While shirts and shorts do not have to adhere to the policies specified in the student dress code for school, a degree of modesty is expected and clothing shall not be excessively revealing or worn inappropriately. ● Coaches have the authority to make decisions regarding policies for game day appearance such as wearing jerseys or dressing up to school. Players are expected to dress according to a coach’s specifications and should dress in a way that reflects the unity of the team. Each athlete is responsible to dress and groom appropriately while attending away competitions. The wearing of inappropriate attire could result in the removal from team competition on the specific day the infraction occurs. See your coach or athletic director if you are concerned about specific attire. Please take pride in your appearance and your team. ● In several sports, athletes will be required to purchase a portion or all of their athletic uniform, which will become the athlete’s property. 10

17. Standards for all athletic awards 17.1. Standards for High School Academic and Letterman awards (Note: Actual pins and awards may vary) Varsity Athletic Performance Award Requirements Student-Athlete Receives First Year Standards set/decided by Coach Chenille "T", "Varsity" Gold Bar, Sports Specific Pin (if needed), Certificate Second Year Standards set/decided by Coach "Varsity" Gold Bar, Certificate Third Year Standards set/decided by Coach "Varsity" Gold Bar, Certificate Fourth Year Standards set/decided by Coach 4-year acknowledgement plaque, "Varsity" Gold Bar, Certificate Junior Varsity Athletic Performance Award Requirements Student-Athlete Receives First Year Standards set/decided by Coach "JV" Pin, Sports Specific Pin, Certificate Second Year Standards set/decided by Coach "JV" Pin, Certificate Third Year Standards set/decided by Coach "JV" Pin, Certificate Academic Performance Award Requirements Student-Athlete Receives CHL Scholar Athlete 3.75 GPA Qtr (Unweighted) CHL Certificate (Varsity Only) *Receives each season they qualify Taylor Scholar-Athlete 3.5 GPA Qtr (Unweighted) Scholar Athlete Pin *Receives each season they qualify Silver Graduation Cord *Seniors only who were scholar athletes during their senior year. 17.2. All other awards are provided at the individual team level. This includes certificates and/or plaques. 11

COMMUNICATION 18. COMMUNICATION EXPECTATIONS 18.1. Communicating - Athletic Department & Parent(s) ● The Athletic Department will host either individual team meetings, or an all-sports collective meeting at the beginning of each season for all parents of participating athletes to discuss the current Athletic Code of Conduct and OHSAA Guidelines. ● Parents and athletes must sign the Athletic Code of Conduct form (Final Forms) before the athlete may participate in any athletic activity. ● The Athletic Department utilizes the communication tools Final Forms and the Band App for communication between student-athletes, coaches, and parents. 18.2. Communicating - Parent & Child ● Make sure your children know that win or lose, scared or heroic, you love them, appreciate their efforts, and are not disappointed in them. This will allow them to do their best without fear of failure. Be the person in their life they can look to for constant positive reinforcement. ● Try your best to be completely honest about your child’s athletic ability, competitive attitude, sportsmanship, and actual skill level. ● Be helpful but don’t coach them. It’s tough not to, but it is a lot tougher for the child to be flooded with advice and critical instruction. ● Teach them to enjoy the thrill of competition, to be “out there trying,” to be working to improve their skills and attitudes. Help them develop the feeling for competing, for trying hard, for having fun. ● Try not to relive your athletic life through your child in a way that creates pressure. You were frightened, backed off at times and were not always heroic. Athletic children need their parents, so do not withdraw. There is a thinking, feeling, sensitive, free spirit in that uniform who needs a lot of understanding, especially when their world turns bad. If they are comfortable with you win or lose, then they are on their way to maximum enjoyment. ● Don’t compete with the coach. If your child is receiving mixed messages from two different authority figures, he or she will likely become disenchanted. ● Don’t compare the skill, courage or attitude of your child with other members of the team. ● Get to know the coaching staff. Then you can be assured that his or her philosophy, attitudes, ethics and knowledge are such that you are happy to have your child under his or her leadership. ● Always remember that children tend to exaggerate, both when praised and when criticized. Temper your reaction and investigate before overreacting. ● Make a point of understanding courage and the fact that it is relative. Some of us climb mountains and are afraid to fly. Some of us will fly but turn to jelly if a bee approaches. Everyone is frightened in certain areas. Explain that courage is not the absence of fear, but a means of doing something in spite of fear and discomfort. 18.3. Communicating - Parent & Coach ● Communication - Coach to Parent: ○ Philosophy of the coach ○ Expectations the coach has for your child as well as all players on the squad ○ Locations and times of all practices and contests ○ Team requirements (fees, special equipment, off-season conditioning) ○ Procedure should your child be injured ○ Discipline that results in the denial of your child’s participation ○ Distribute written expectations specific to their sport during or prior to the first week of the regular interscholastic season. ○ Discuss the current Athletic Handbook and team rules with their team during or prior to the first week of the regular interscholastic season. ○ Enforce the Athletic Handbook and team rules with expectations specific to their sport. ○ Consistently emphasize the importance of the high standards set for all athletes. ● Communication - Parent to Coach: ○ Concerns expressed directly to the coach ○ Notification of any schedule conflicts well in advance ○ Specific concerns in regard to a coach’s philosophy and/or expectations ○ Appropriate concerns to discuss with coaches: ● The treatment of your child, mentally and physically, ● Ways to help your child improve ● Concerns about your child’s behavior ○ Issues Not Appropriate To Discuss With Coaches ● Playing time ● Team strategy ● Play calling ● Other student-athletes 12

19. Grievance Procedure 19.1. While it is hoped that all athletes, parents and staff members work for the common good of the individual and the school, disagreements are a part of high school athletics. For the purpose of improving relations between all parties involved, the following guidelines shall be followed: ● If a parent has a complaint about a coach they shall refrain from confronting the coach in public, before or after a contest or practice. A parent may contact the coach to establish a meeting to discuss their complaint. If after this meeting the matter is not resolved the parent shall contact the Athletic Director to establish a meeting. The Athletic Director may convene a meeting with the coach, parent and student. The student may be asked to attend the meeting per the request of the Athletic Director. Should the matter still not be resolved, the parent shall contact the principal and arrange for a meeting. Coaches are evaluated each year and are subject to the terms of employment as set forth by the board of education. Included in these terms is an annual evaluation conducted by the A.D. ● Coaches, parents and the administration shall not discuss other players or family members. Conferences shall focus on the complaint and a remedy to the problem that is most agreeable to all the parties involved. It shall be the established policy of coaches that they are not obligated to play all players equally. The determination of who plays and who does not is determined by the coach at his or her discretion based on criteria including, but not limited to: ability level, experience, work ethic, attitude and past performance. ● Board members and administrative officials may be contacted by parents and members of the community about a concern regarding a player or coach. ● However, they shall inquire as to whether or not the issue has been addressed with the coach first. When appropriate, they shall direct the inquiring person to contact the coach, A.D., Principal and Superintendent. Any written correspondence should be passed on to the appropriate personnel, giving them the opportunity to respond, Anonymous notes, letters, and phone calls will not typically receive the attention of official action unless school officials believe that the safety or well-being of student-athletes is in jeopardy. ● When a meeting is called, the coach shall be told who will be in attendance prior to the meeting. The coach shall also have the right to request anyone he or she believes necessary to be present at any meetings called by the parent or A.D. However, if the A.D., Principal or Superintendent orders any coach to be present at a meeting it is part of the coach’s contractual obligation to follow the reasonable request of their superiors and be present at the meeting. ● Coaches will establish their own rules and schedules (supported by the athletic director) within guidelines that have been established by the board of education. It shall be up to the coach when to have practice, how long to practice and what to practice. Decisions regarding strategy, personnel and scheduling shall be made by the coach. Both players and their parents should be given important information at the beginning of the season. Preseason parent meetings are required per the Ohio High School Athletic Association. If parents have questions regarding a coach and his or her rules, they should first be addressed to the coach. All policies that govern the High School Athletic Program shall supersede any rules set forth by the coach. It is the responsibility of the coach to know these rules and to abide by them. 20. Moving on to Collegiate Athletics 20.1. The Taylor Athletic Department fully supports student-athletes that aspire to move on to the next level of athletic competition. Student-athletes should enter the college recruiting process only after carefully considering the responsibilities a collegiate student-athlete must fulfill as well as the opportunity to extend a competitive athletic career. Information on the college recruiting process can be discussed with the Athletic Director. The NCAA Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete can be found at www.ncaa.org. 20.2. The Guide for the College-Bound Student-Athlete is our most comprehensive student resource. ● http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/educational-resources 20.3. Our Initial-Eligibility Brochure provides a general overview of the NCAA Eligibility Center requirements. ● http://www.ncaa.org/student-athletes/future/educational-resource 20.4. Students can learn which NCAA division may be right for them by comparing the three NCAA divisions. ● http://www.ncaa.org/about/resources/media-center/ncaa-101/our-three-divisions 13

STUDENT-ATHLETE CONDUCT 21. Student-Athlete Conduct 21.1. Rules are established for the conduct of athletes and the administration of Taylor athletics within the pages of this handbook. Student athletes, parents, and coaches are responsible for knowing the contents of this handbook and for following the guidelines set forth herein. A student participates in athletics by choice. In doing so, the student also chooses to adhere to the athletic participation rules. A “YELLOWJACKET” student-athlete will not do anything that will jeopardize their chances for playing or their team’s chances of success. These rules and procedures apply 365 days a year, on and off school grounds, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Failure to comply with these rules and procedures may result in a suspension from participation in Taylor athletics. In addition to these rules, each coach or advisor will develop regulations and penalties that apply to that sport or activity. Students may be suspended from an activity or sport for a violation of general school rules as set forth in the student conduct code. A coach may choose to deny participation to any potential student-athlete that has proven to be a discipline or behavior problem or has been disrespectful of their duties as a representative of the Athletic Department or Taylor High School. 21.2. Student athletes are representatives of their school. As Ambassadors of the Taylor community, it is incumbent upon them to represent their school with class, respect, dignity, integrity, good sportsmanship and compassion for their fellow competitors and their communities. 21.3. Any athlete ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct or flagrant foul shall be ineligible for contests for the remainder of the day as well as for all contests in that sport until two regular season/tournament contests (one for football) are played at the same level as the ejection. 21.4. If the ejection occurs in the last contest of the season, the student shall be ineligible for the same period of time as stated above in the next sport in which the student participates. A student under suspension may not sit on the team bench, enter the locker room or be affiliated with the team in any way traveling to, during or traveling after the contest(s). 21.5. A student who is ejected a second time shall be suspended for the remainder of the season in that sport. 21.6. A student who has been ejected for unsportsmanlike conduct for the second time in the season during the last contest shall be ineligible for a period of time, number of contests, subject to the discretion of the OHSAA Commissioner. The period of ineligibility shall commence during the next sport in which the student participates. 21.7. The Taylor Athletic Department fully supports the “Be A Sport” program conducted by the OHSAA and will ensure compliance with the above stated policy. In addition, any athlete ejected from a contest will meet with the athletic director and may be required by the responsible coach to complete extra activities before rejoining the team in a competitive manner. 22. Hazing 22.1. Bullying/Hazing/Intimidation in Ohio schools is defined in Ohio law (Ohio Revised Code 3313.666(B)(E) as any intentional written, verbal, graphic, or physical act that a student or group of students exhibits toward another particular student more than once, and that behavior both: causes mental or physical harm to the other student; and is sufficiently severe, persistent or pervasive that it creates an intimidating, threatening, or abusive educational environment for the other student. This act also includes violence within a dating relationship. Cyberbullying is the above-prohibited behavior perpetuated with computers, cellular phones, internet websites, and/or other electronic devices. The term bullying will be used in what follows for all acts as defined above. 22.2. While many of these issues may occur “on school property” or “at school events”, if the act of bullying occurs off school property/during non-school hours, it still results in school discipline if it manifests itself or there is a disruption in the learning environment in the school setting. Any acts of bullying, as defined above, should be reported immediately to the school administration. Penalties for such behavior include a range of disciplinary actions including suspension from school. Taylor High School must be a safe haven where all students feel physically and emotionally safe and secure at all times. Parents can assist the school and help protect their children by joining in this effort. 14

23. Harassment 23.1. The Three Rivers Local School District is committed to providing an environment that is free from harassment, hostility, or defamation, whether verbal, written, or physical. Such acts will not be tolerated and will constitute grounds for disciplinary action, including suspension and/or expulsion from school. Legal agencies may be contacted as well. 23.2. Sexual harassment includes all unwanted, uninvited, and non-reciprocal sexual attention as well as the creation of an intimidating hostile, or offensive school or work environment. Sexual harassment between employees, students, students and employees, and students or employees and a member of the public vising the school, will not be tolerated. 23.3. The sexual harassment of an employee or student of this district is strictly forbidden. Any employee or student of this district who is found to have sexually harassed an employee or student of this district will be subject to disciplinary action. 23.4. Any student who believes he/she is being subjected to sexual harassment should let the offender know immediately and firmly that the behavior is offensive and not acceptable. The student should also report the offending behavior to the administration to help ensure the behavior is stopped. 24. Alcohol and Drug Policies 24.1. The Three Rivers Local School District Board of Education shall not permit any student to possess, transmit, conceal, offer for sale, consume, show evidence of having consumed or used any alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, un-prescribed drugs, look-alike drugs or any mind-altering substance while on school grounds or facilities; at school-sponsored events; in other situations under the authority of the District or in school-owned or school-approved vehicles. Included in this prohibition are any substances represented as a controlled substance, nonalcoholic beers, steroids, THC, vape pens, tobacco and tobacco products, and drug paraphernalia. Students found in violation of this policy are subject to disciplinary action described in the Student Code of Conduct up to and including expulsion and referral for prosecution. 24.2. The following policy pertains to illegal drugs and alcohol: ● Any student found to be in possession or under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol at school, at a school-sponsored event, or on a Board-operated transportation vehicle could be suspended from school for a period of ten (10) days, and may be recommended for expulsion. At the building administrator’s discretion and with reasonable cause, any or all of the following may be conducted: drug and/or alcohol testing, searching of the student’s person and personal belongings (purse, backpack, etc.), searching of the student’s locker, and searching of the vehicle that a student occupied to or from school. ● The first offense may align with the period of time in which the school suspension occurs. Multiple offenses may result in permanent removal from the team, or athletics. Should a Friday be the final day of the suspension, the student-athlete may not participate in any contests until the following Monday as they must be present at school on the proceeding Friday in order to participate on Saturday and Sunday. 25. Cheating 25.1. The privilege of representing your school as an athlete also carries responsibility into the classroom. Any team member found to be cheating in class work or tests will be denied participation for one week of athletic contests. Continued problems will result in further denial of participation. 26. Stealing and Vandalism 26.1. One purpose of the athletic program is to develop respect for the rights and property of others. If an athlete takes the property of another person or of the school or becomes knowingly involved in theft by student-athletes property, he may be denied participation for one week of all athletic contests. If a student has a second violation, he will be dismissed from the team. 27. Criminal Activities 27.1. Any student involved in criminal activity or violation of Civil Law may be denied participation. 15

28. Self/Parental Referral 28.1. If a student/athlete or parent(s) asks a coach, counselor, administrator or other school personnel for help and an assessment prior to any known violations of this policy, they will not be subject to any Athletic Department disciplinary action provided they follow the recommendations of the school recommended assessment. A self-referral will be considered a first offense, but will not carry any Athletic Department penalties. The self-referral discipline waiver can only be applied once in an athlete’s career. 28.2. Any student who engages in criminal activity or violation of Civil Law may be denied participation. 28.3. Other rules of conduct will be the same as those listed in the student handbook for all school activities. Any violation or deviation from the student code of conduct listed in the student handbook may also be reason for removal from or denial of participation in athletics. 29. Social Media Guidelines 29.1. Specifically prohibited behaviors for student-athletes include but are not limited to: ● Any posting of sexually explicit, profane, lewd, indecent or inflammatory language. ● Derogatory language regarding school officials or other students. ○ This includes postings regarding other teams, schools, coaches or administrators. ● Comments designed to harass, threaten or bully students and/or school officials. ● Nude, sexually oriented or indecent photos, images or altered pictures. ○ This includes links to pornographic websites or inappropriate material. ● Personal attacks or racially motivated comments to students, coaches or school officials. ● Photos, videos, comments or posting showing the personal use of alcohol, drugs and/or tobacco (including dab pens and vap pens) ● Postings that encourage depict or advocate unacceptable, violent or illegal activities such as hazing, bullying, sexual harassment, assault, fighting, vandalism, academic dishonesty, underage drinking or illegal drug use. ● Any postings that violates the Taylor Student Handbook Code of Conduct. 30. Discipline Procedure 30.1. The following individuals have the authority to impose discipline: Principal, Assistant Principal, Athletic Director, and coach. 30.2. They shall notify a student of his/her proposed suspension from an extracurricular activity, and the reason(s) for the suspension. 30.3. They shall also notify the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian. 30.4. The notice shall include the reason for the suspension and the right to appeal the decision. 30.5. The imposition of the penalty shall not be stayed pending appeal. Appeals regarding a proposed suspension from extracurricular activities shall be taken to the superintendent. Such appeals must be made in writing within 48 hours after receiving notifications of the suspension. The superintendent shall hear the appeal, and shall provide the student’s parents, guardian, or custodian with an opportunity to present their version of the incident. The superintendent will then notify in writing the student’s parent, guardian, or custodian of his/her decision concerning the proposed suspension. 30.6. A coach shall have the right to remove any student from immediate participation in any extra-curricular activity under that coach’s supervision if the student violates Social Media Guidelines, violates the code of conduct, violates the expectations of athletes, violates student drug use including dap and vape pens, if the student’s presence poses a continued danger to persons or property or an on-going threat of disrupting school, travel, or any school-provided transportation or any school-sponsored activity held on or off school property. Within 24 hours of the suspension of a student from extracurricular participation, the coach/advisor shall either reinstate the student’s participation privileges or issue a proposed-suspension of the student to the athletic director and principal. 30.7. The disciplinary provisions of this handbook apply only to the removal of a student from extracurricular participation for a period of time of one day or more. The provisions are not applicable in the case of routine disciplinary procedures in which a student is removed from participation for a period of time of less than one day. The provisions have no applicability whatsoever to a coach’s day-to-day decisions related to selection of students for any activity or competition, the level of participation of a student in a particular activity, or the discipline of a student by a coach/advisor that consists of any penalty other than the complete removal of a student from extracurricular participation. (For example, a coach may determine that a student may attend a practice or contest, but may determine that the student will not participate in the event. This is not considered to be a removal from participation as defined in this policy, since the student is still attending the activity as part of the team). 16

MEDICAL AND SAFETY INFORMATION 31. Athletic Trainer 31.1. Taylor Athletics has an agreement with NovaCare and UC Health and Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine to provide (2) Athletic Trainers and medical support for our athletes. Support is provided for injuries that occur during participation in Taylor Athletics. While the Taylor Athletic Trainers provided by NovaCare are the first level of medical support provided, parents are free to choose their own medical care provider. 31.2. Contact Information: - Betsy Bonifas - sportsmedicine@trlsd.org 32. Athletic Medical Insurance 32.1. The Athletic Department does not provide medical insurance for school athletes. The Ohio High School Athletic Association provides a catastrophic policy for athletes injured in the pursuit of an OHSAA and school sponsored sport. Details regarding provisions of this plan are available through the OHSAA. Parents of athletes are strongly encouraged to investigate the following: - Check with your own health insurance carrier to determine the nature and extent of coverage available to you due to athletic injury. - If athletic injuries are not covered or only partially covered through your current health plan, consider purchasing a rider to that plan. - Contact the athletic department for information regarding insurance plans designed for student-athletes. 33. Physical Examination 33.1. OHSAA rules mandate that athletic participation forms properly signed by a physician, student and parent/guardian, must be on file in the athletic office before any candidate for a team may participate in a practice or competition. This form necessitates the physician’s certification of the individual’s physical fitness no less than once a school year. The physical examination is the responsibility of the student-athlete. Physicals are good for 13 months per OHSAA guidelines. 34. Risk of Participation 34.1. All athletes and parents must realize the risk of serious injury, which may be a result of athletic participation. The athletic department will use the following safeguards to make every effort to eliminate injury: ● Coaches must be certified in Ohio Department of Education certified classes for the prevention and care of athletic related injuries. ● Certified athletic trainers will be available at as many practices and contests as possible. ● Athletes will be instructed in the dangers of participation in the particular sport. 35. Medical Release Required After Injury 35.1. An athlete under a doctor’s care must have a signed medical release before participating in any practice or contest. The release must be presented to the head certified trainer prior to any participation. 36. Inclimate Weather 36.1. On days that school is canceled due to weather all athletic events including practices will be determined by the administration by 1:00pm. 7th-12th grade practices may be conducted if the weather conditions improve with permission of the administration. These practices are not mandatory. 36.2. School practices and events will take precedence over any outside group activities such as facility rentals and/or youth reservations. 17

37. Concussion Regulations CONCUSSION REGULATIONS – UPDATED FOR 2019-20 DATE OF IMPLEMENTATION – APRIL 26, 2013 37.1. Implementation of State Law and NFHS Playing Rules Related to Concussion and Concussed Athletes and Return to Play Protocol 37.2. It is important for all individuals involved in interscholastic athletics to recognize the potential for catastrophic injury and even death from concussions. Thus, it is extremely important that each coach, administrator, contest official and medical support personnel review their responsibilities in protecting students. Further both students and parents have responsibilities in this area as well. 37.3. Note: It has always been the ultimate responsibility of the coaching staff, in all sports, to ensure that students are only put into practice or contests if they are physically capable of performing. However, all individuals involved in the conduct of interscholastic competition have responsibilities in this endeavor. 37.4. In January 2011, the OHSAA Board of Directors adopted a sports regulation which incorporated the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) playing rules related to concussion recognition and management. On April 26, 2013, legislation adopted by Ohio’s General Assembly on concussion and head injuries in youth sports became effective. On February 14, 2013, the OHSAA Board of Directors mandated that these regulations become effective on April 26, 2013 for the remainder of the spring sports season and thereafter. This OHSAA regulation, as amended to incorporate this recent legislation, now reads: ● Any student, while practicing for or competing in an interscholastic contest, who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with having sustained a concussion or head injury (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the practice or contest by either of the following: ○ The individual who is serving as the student’s coach during that practice or competition. ○ An individual who is serving as a contest official or referee during that practice or competition. 38. Return to Play Protocol 38.1. If a student is removed from practice or competition due to a suspected concussion or head injury, the coach or referee who removes the student shall not permit the student, ON THE SAME DAY THE STUDENT IS REMOVED, to return to that practice or competition or to participate in any other practice or competition for which the coach or contest official is responsible. Thereafter, which means no earlier than the next day, the coach or contest officials shall not permit the student to return to practice or competition until both of the following conditions are satisfied: ● The student’s condition is assessed by either of the following: ○ A physician, who is a person authorized under Chapter 4731 of the Ohio Revised Code (OCR) to practice medicine and surgery or osteopathic medicine or surgery (M.D. or D.O.) ○ Any other licensed health care provider that the school district board of education or other governing authority of a chartered or non-chartered nonpublic school, authorizes to assess the student who has been removed from practice or competition. ● The student receives written authorization that it is safe for the student to return to practice or competition from a physician or other licensed health care provider authorized to grant the clearance. Click here to retrieve the OHSAA’s Medical Authorization to Return To Play (RTP) form. 38.2. A school district board of education or governing authority of a chartered or non-chartered nonpublic school may authorize a licensed health care provider who is NOT a PHYSICIAN to make an assessment and grant authorization for a student to return to participation ONLY if the provider is acting in accordance with one of the following as applicable to the provider’s authority to practice in Ohio: ● In consultation with a physician; ● Pursuant to the referral of a physician; ● In collaboration with a physician, or ● Under the supervision of a physician. ● Note: A physician or other licensed health care provider who makes an assessment or grants clearance for a student to return to participation may be a volunteer. 18

39. Coaches Requirements 39.1. All coaches, paid and volunteer, must possess a current Department of Education-issued Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit. When renewing this permit, the coach will be required to complete an online education course as approved by the Ohio Department of Education. stipulated in the section entitled Approved Online Concussion Education Course. This course is valid for three years. 40. Contest Officials Requirements 40.1. New legislation signed into law by the Governor provides that no school “shall permit” an individual to referee interscholastic athletic contests unless the individual holds a Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit or has successfully completed within the last three years a training program in concussion recognition. Therefore, all OHSAA licensed officials shall possess either a current Department of Education-issued Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit or show evidence of completing an approved online concussion education course as stipulated in the section entitled Approved Online Concussion Education Courses. This course is valid for three years from the date of completion. 41. Student and Parent Requirements 41.1. All students and their parents or legal guardians shall review and sign the “Concussion Information Sheet” which has been developed by the Ohio Department of Health and which shall be distributed by OHSAA member schools to all students and their parents prior to each sports season. Students and parents shall review and sign this form each year and should keep a copy of the form. In addition, parents and students are encouraged to complete an approved concussion education course. The Concussion Information Sheet can be found here: http://www.healthyohioprogram.org/ 42. Approved Online Concussion Education Courses 42.1. The following free online training courses have been approved by the Ohio Department of Health for coaches and contest officials: ● The Coaches Toolchest ○ coachestoolchest.com ● National Federation of State High School Associations Concussion in Sports ○ http://www.nfhslearn.com/ ○ This free online course is available through the NFHS. Click the “order here” button, and complete a brief registration form to take the course. Follow these steps to complete the course: ○ Click on the button that says “Please Login to Order.” In the window that appears, click “Register Now.” ○ When your registration is complete, you may "order" the free concussion course offered along the left-hand side of the page. Continue following prompts. Although it may look like you will be charged for the course, there is no cost. ○ Once you've completed "Checkout," you will be able to take the free online course. ○ When you have completed and passed the course, you have the option of printing a certificate of completion. ○ All Ohio Officials should select this option to print, retain a copy of the certificate and carry it with them to all contests. ● Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Heads Up Concussion in Youth Sports On-Line Training Program ○ http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/online_training.html 42.2. Please Note: Each course offers a “certificate of completion” upon successful passage. The NFHS course allows organizations to search for and track coaches and other individuals such as contest officials who have completed the course, while the CDC course does not. 19

43. Frequently Asked Questions 43.1. What are the “signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion?” The National Federation rule lists some of the signs, symptoms and behaviors consistent with a concussion. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has published the following list of signs, symptoms and behaviors that are consistent with a concussion: SIGNS OBSERVED BY OTHERS SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETE Appears dazed or stunned Is confused about assignment Forgets plays Is unsure of game, score, or opponent Moves clumsily Answers questions slowly Loses consciousness Shows behavior or personality changes Cannot recall events prior to hit Cannot recall events after hit Headache Nausea Balance problems or dizziness Double or fuzzy vision Sensitivity to light or noise Feeling sluggish Feeling foggy or groggy Concentration or memory problems Confusion 43.2. Who is responsible for administering this rule? ● All individuals who have responsibilities and duties in the interscholastic athletics environment are responsible: coaches, contest officials, administrators, students, parents and medical personnel. 43.3. What is the role of coaches in administering this rule? ● Coaches are to review and know the signs and symptoms of concussion and to prohibit any athlete who displays these signs or symptoms from participating in a practice or a contest. ● Coaches are not medical professionals and have no authority to determine whether or not a student has sustained a concussion. The coach is responsible for ensuring that the student’s parents are notified and the student is referred to a medical professional. ● Coaches shall be aware that any student removed from a practice or a contest due to a suspected concussion or head injury shall not return to participation on the same day as the removal. ● Coaches shall possess a current Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit and shall take one of the approved online concussion courses upon renewal of the permit. 43.4. What is the role of contest officials in administering the rule? ● Officials are to review and know the signs and symptoms of concussion and to direct immediate removal of any student who displays these signs or symptoms. When informing the head coach about removal of an athlete, the official shall be accompanied by another (second) official if possible. ● An official shall not permit the athlete who has been removed under this rule to return to competition that same day. ● If a contest official is aware that a student has been permitted to return to competition on the same day as removal, that official shall immediately stop play and remove that student from competition and report the incident to the OHSAA. ● Note that officials are not medical professionals and have no authority to determine whether or not a student has sustained a concussion. The official is responsible for directing removal when he or she observes signs and symptoms that may indicate a student is concussed. ● All Officials shall possess either a current Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit or shall complete one of the online concussion courses which are valid for three years from the date of completion. ● At initial licensure or renewal of the OHSAA officiating permit, the official shall indicate that he or she has either a current Pupil Activity Program/Coaching Permit or has completed one of the approved online concussion courses. ● All officials should carry with them evidence of completion of one of these options at all times while officiating a contest. ● Officials are required to submit to the OHSAA the “OHSAA Concussion Report” within 48 hours whenever a student has been removed from a contest under this regulation. 20

43.5. What are the expectations of student-athletes in concussion management? ● While all individuals involved in the interscholastic athletics program have a responsibility to recognize the potential for catastrophic injury and even death from concussions, it is also the responsibility of student-athletes to recognize the signs, symptoms and behaviors consistent with a concussion. ● Student-athletes who exhibit symptoms such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems, have the responsibility to report these immediately to their coach and/or health care professional. Teammates also share the responsibility to report these symptoms when they are exhibited by a fellow student-athlete. ● Student-athletes shall review and sign, on an annual basis, along with their parents or legal guardians, the Ohio Department of Health’s Concussion Information Sheet found on your pre-season Final Forms registration. 43.6. Who decides if an athlete has not been concussed and/or who has recovered from a concussion? ● Only an M.D. (Medical Doctor), D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy), or another health care provider approved by the school’s Board of Education or other governing body who is acting in accordance with one of the following as applicable to the provider’s authority to practice in Ohio: ● In consultation with a physician; ● Pursuant to the referral of a physician; ● In collaboration with a physician; ● Under the supervision of a physician. ● Any medical professional who is empowered to make the on-site determination that an athlete has not received a concussion. Even if that determination has been made, however, the student may not return to practice or competition on the same day he/she has been removed from a practice or competition (see No. 7 below). ● If any one of these physicians or authorized medical providers has answered that “yes” there has been a concussion, that decision is final. 43.7. Can an athlete return to play on the same day as he/she has been removed from a practice or competition for a suspected concussion? ● No, under no circumstances can that athlete return to play that day. ● No coach or contest official shall allow a student to return to practice or to competition on any day after the initial removal until that student has been assessed and cleared for return with written authorization by a physician or licensed health care provider authorized by the school. ● If the event continues over multiple days, then the designated event physician has ultimate authority over return to play decisions. 43.8. Once the day has concluded, who can issue authorization to return to practice/competition in the sport for a student who has been diagnosed with a concussion? ● Once a concussion has been diagnosed by a physician or other approved health care provider, only a physician or approved provider can authorize subsequent Return To Play (RTP), and such authorization shall be in writing to the administration of the school. This written RTP authorization shall be kept at the school indefinitely as a part of that student’s permanent re ● Click here to access the OHSAA “Medical Authorization to Return to Play” Form. ● School administration shall then notify the coach as to the permission to return to practice or play. 43.9. What should be done after the student is cleared by an appropriate health care professional? ● After a clearance has been issued, the student’s actual return to practice and play should follow a graduated protocol. ● The National Federation of State High School Associations has included the following graduated protocol in its Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion in Sports: (Note: This is simply a suggested protocol. The appropriate health care professional who issues the clearance may wish to establish a different graduated protocol.) 21

44. NFHS Suggested Medical Clearance Return to Play Protocol 44.1. No exertional activity until asymptomatic. 44.2. When the athlete appears clear, begin low-impact activity such as walking, stationary bike, etc. 44.3. Initiate aerobic activity fundamental to specific sport such as running or skating, and may also begin progressive strength training activities. 44.4. Begin non-contact skill drills specific to sport such as dribbling, fielding, batting, etc. 44.5. Full contact in practice setting. 44.6. Game play/competition. ● Athlete must remain asymptomatic to progress to the next level. (It is often suggested that an athlete not be allowed to progress more than one level per day.) ● If symptoms recur, athlete must return to previous level and should be reevaluated by an appropriate health care professional. ● Medical check should occur before contact. (Final written clearance from the medical professional shall be obtained before the athlete engages in any unrestricted or full contact activity.) 45. Quick Links from the Ohio Department of Health 45.1. Ohio Department of Health Concussion Information Sheet 45.2. Online Concussion Management Training 45.3. Ohio’s Return to Play Law: Frequently Asked Questions 45.4. Ohio’s Return to Play Law: What Coaches and Referees Need to Know 45.5. Ohio’s Return to Play Law: What Parent/Guardians Need to Know 46. Additional Concussion Resources 46.1. Ohio Department of Health, Violence and Injury Prevention Program - Sports/Recreation Traumatic Brain Injuries 46.2. CDC Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports 46.3. Nationwide Children’s Hospital – Concussion Information Toolkit 46.4. Brain Injury Association of Ohio 22

47. Taylor High School/Three Rivers & NovaCare Rehabilitation/Select Medical Heat Policy 47.1. The Sports Medicine Division has a digital temperature heat monitor that allows us to determine the actual heat index on location. One of the Athletic Trainers will check the temperatures with said monitor and communicate if there need to be any changes to practices/games. 47.2. Under 95 degrees Heat Index ● Optional water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes in duration to allow hydration as a group. ● Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action. ● Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes if temperature rises in order to monitor for increased Heat Index. 47.3. 95 degrees to 99 degrees Heat Index ● Water shall always be available and athletes shall be able to take in as much water as they desire. ● Mandatory water breaks every 20-30 minutes. Try to allow for rest in a shaded area during this time. ● Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action. ● Helmets and other equipment should be removed when athletes are not directly involved with competition, drill or practice and it is not otherwise required by rule. ● Notes: Reduce time of outside activity. Consider postponing practice to later in the day. Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for increased Heat Index. 47.4. 100 degrees to 104 degrees Heat Index ● Water shall always be available and athletes shall be able to take in as much water as they desire. ● Mandatory water breaks every 10-15 minutes. Try to allow for rest in a shaded area during this time. ● Have towels with ice for cooling of athletes as needed. ● Watch/monitor athletes carefully for necessary action. ● Alter uniform by removing items if possible and permissible by rules. ● Reduce time of outside activity as well as indoor activity if air conditioning is unavailable. ● Postpone practice to later in the day. ● If helmets or other protective requirements are required to be worn by rule or normal practice, suspend practice or competition immediately. 47.5. Above 104 degrees Heat Index ● Stop all outside activity in practice and/or play, and stop all inside activity if air conditioning is unavailable. 47.6. There is to be ABSOLUTELY NO EXTRA RUNNING/CONDITIONING when the heat index is above 100 degrees and there should be extreme caution taken with very limited extra running/conditioning when the heat index is within the 95-99 degree range. 47.7. Re-check temperature and humidity every 30 minutes to monitor for changes in Heat Index. 23

48. Inclimate Weather/Lightning Policy 48.1. The responsibility for terminating an athletic activity in the event of lightning, severe weather, and/or storms lies with the Athletic Director and the Athletic Trainers. If a coach and/or game official(s)/umpire(s) make the decision to continue to practice and/or continue with a game or other activity despite seeing lightning/hearing thunder, receiving a National Weather Service Severe Weather Warning, and/or receiving verbal instructions by the AD or ATC, they will be doing so against the recommendations of the Taylor Athletics Department, and will be personally liable for any and all injuries. 48.2. ATCs and/or AD will monitor and watch for lightning/listen for thunder. ATCs and/or AD will also monitor local weather radar and media outlets for severe thunderstorm, tornado, and/or other severe weather watches / warnings. 48.3. If lightning and/or thunder are detected, all game/practice activities are to cease IMMEDIATELY, and ALL personnel are to evacuate to a safe structure or location. 48.4. A safe structure or location is defined as- “any sturdy, fully enclosed, substantial, and frequently inhabited building that has plumbing and/or electrical wiring that acts to electrically ground the structure”. 48.5. In the absence of a sturdy, fully enclosed, substantial, and frequently inhabited location as described above, a secondary structure such as a fully enclosed vehicle with a hard metal roof, rubber tires, and completely closed windows can provide a measure of safety. Persons should not touch the sides of the vehicle! Convertible and “soft-top” vehicles, and golf carts do not provide a high level of protection and cannot be considered safe from lightning. 48.6. Persons should avoid taking showers and using plumbing facilities (including indoor and outdoor pools, whirlpools, Jacuzzis, and hot tubs) and land-line telephones during a thunderstorm.If no safe structure or location is within a reasonable distance, personnel should find a thick grove of small trees surrounded by taller trees or a dry ditch. Everyone should assume the “lightning-safe” position- a crouched position on the ground with the feet together, weight on the balls of the feet, head lowered, and ears covered. DO NOT LIE FLAT! Minimize the body’s surface area and minimize contact with the ground. 48.7. If unable to reach safe shelter, persons should stay away from the tallest trees or objects (i.e. light poles, flag poles, etc.), metal objects (i.e. fences, bleachers, etc.), individual trees, standing pools of water, and open fields. Persons should avoid being the highest object in an open field. 48.8. In situations where thunder and/or lightning may or may not be present, yet someone feels his/her hair stand on end and skin tingle, LIGHTNING IS IMMINENT! Therefore, all persons should assume the “lightning-safe” position as described above. 48.9. A cellular and/or portable remote phone is a safe alternative to land-line phones, if the person and the antenna are located within a safe structure or location, and if all other precautions are followed. 48.10. All individuals should have the right to leave a site or activity, without fear of repercussions or penalty, in order to seek a safe structure or location if they feel that they are in danger from impending lightning activity. 49. Criteria for Returning to Practice/Game Area 49.1. Personnel should not return to the practice/game area until thirty (30) minutes have passed since the last lightning flash or the last sound of thunder. 49.2. Each time lightning is observed and/or thunder is heard, the “30-minute clock” is to be reset. 49.3. Blue skies in the local area and/or a lack of rainfall are not adequate reasons to breach the 30- minute return-to-play rule. Lightning can strike up to ten (10) miles away from the rain shaft of a storm. 49.4. Because lightning-strike victims do not remain connected to a power source, they do not carry an electric charge. Therefore, it is safe to touch the victim to move him/her to a safe location and to render medical treatment. 49.5. During an ongoing thunderstorm, lightning activity in the local area still poses a deadly hazard for personnel responding to the victim. Personnel should consider his/her own personal safety before venturing into a dangerous situation to render care. 49.6. The first priority of personnel is to move the lightning strike victim to a safe location. 49.7. Prompt, aggressive CPR has been highly effective for the survival of victims of lightning strikes. Therefore, it is critical that CPR and AED use is initiated as soon as safely possible. 49.8. Lightning strike victims should be evaluated and treated for hypothermia, shock, fractures, and burns as well. 24