Northland College has revised its academic programs as of Fall 2024. Some pages may refer to previous programs while updates are made to reflect our refocused offerings.

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Student Athletes

Handbook and Resource Guide

This guide offers an overview and links to some of the most important policies and rules related to student-athletes. However, it does not replace or supersede the official Northland College Student Handbook—which provides the complete text of all College policies—or actual UMAC, WIAC, MLC, and NCAA rules and regulations. This handbook is an additional resource for those students who choose to participate in athletics while at Northland. If you have any questions, you should review the applicable Northland College policy and/or UMAC/WIAC/MLC/NCAA rule(s) and consult with your coach or the athletic director.

Below are the Athletics Department’s most important guiding principles and values:

Respect: The principle of respect has many applications, but it is particularly relevant to the activity of hazing. Simply put, hazing is antithetical to a culture of respect—for oneself and for others—and it will not be tolerated. Respect will also be important in the field of play, whether you are a participant or a spectator, and we will use respect to set a high standard of sportsmanship.
Integrity: It is important for our student-athletes to hold themselves to the same high standards of effort, attitude, and behavior in the field of play, in the classroom and in the community.
Team: While the concept of “team” may vary from one athletic team to another, we want all of our student-athletes to understand that they are part of something bigger than themselves; to take the important lesson of “team” offered by participation in athletics and to think of themselves as part of their athletic team, the College community, the local community, and even the global community.
Accountability: Students will be held accountable for their actions, and disciplinary measures may result if they violate departmental or College policy. However, we also want to promote a broader concept of responsibility which encourages student to influence one another in a positive manner. Our student-athletes are expected to be leaders who hold themselves and their teammates accountable to the highest standard of ethical behavior.

These principles and values should guide you as you represent Northland College here on campus and in the larger community. Coaches and staff hope you fully embrace these shared values and adhere to the enclosed policies so that we can maintain a safe, healthy, and successful athletic culture.

Athletics Department Overview

Athletics Programs

Athletics are an essential part of the overall educational experience at Northland College. The College endeavors to provide athletic programs that are comprehensive and varied, offering athletic opportunities to all students.

The Athletic Department is committed to:

Excellence: We strive for excellence in all we do. We have an excellent attitude and outlook.
Integrity: At all times, and in all our affairs, we strive for integrity. We know that the right thing to do is the only thing to do.
Service: We approach all of our relationships with a spirit of service.
Respect: We treat others and ourselves with dignity, kindness and respect.
Accountability: We are thoughtful with the use of our resources. We are personally accountable for our actions. We are an important part of a great team.
Discovery: We place a strong emphasis on discovery. We are always searching for more efficient and effective ways to get things done.

Varsity Sports

The Northland College athletic philosophy is compatible with the school’s spirit of academic challenge. Superb coaching and training provide a setting in which student-athletes can develop themselves both as players and individuals.

Northland student-athletes demonstrate that a pursuit of excellence on the playing field is fully compatible with the pursuit of excellence in the classroom, and that a combination of the two endeavors lends itself to a more complete educational experience. Furthermore, Northland’s size and balanced curriculum allow two-and-three-sport athletes to compete throughout the year without jeopardizing their academic standing.

The quality of LumberJacks’ and LumberJills’ opponents is guaranteed, as the College’s varsity teams compete within the NCAA Division III, the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC), the Northern Collegiate Hockey Association (NCHA), and the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC).

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC)

NCAA regulations mandate that all member institutions have SAACs on their campuses. Northland’s SAAC is comprised of student-athletes who serve to address student-athlete issues and provide insights into the student-athlete experience at Northland. The SAAC also offers input on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect the lives of NCAA student-athletes.

The SAAC promotes communications between athletics administration and student-athletes, disseminates information, provides feedback and insight into athletics department issues and the formulation of athletics department policies, builds a sense of community among all athletics programs and teams, organizes community service efforts, solicits student-athlete responses to proposed conference and NCAA legislation, and promotes a positive student-athlete image on campus. Through grass-roots efforts and networking between the campus SAACs, the conference SAACs, and the national committees, student-athletes can have a positive impact on intercollegiate athletics and enrich the student-athlete experience.

Issues or Concerns

Student-athletes who have issues or concerns relating to their participation in any Northland College athletic programs are encourage to discuss the matter with the team captain or coach. If the student-athlete is not comfortable discussing the matter with the captain, coach, or program director, or if the student-athlete feels that the issue or concern has not been properly addressed or resolved, he/she may contact:

Daniel Schumacher (Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics)
Dawn Rivard (Chief of Staff)
Chad Dayton (President)

Mission, Values, and Philosophy

Northland’s Community Standards and Mission Statement

The Northland College Department of Intercollegiate Athletics supports the mission of the College by providing student-athletes the opportunity to develop their talents athletically and academically. Our student-athletes develop through practice, team building, and competition. Northland College Athletics demonstrates a deep commitment to diversity and individuality; we always conduct ourselves with integrity, care for one another, and keep each other accountable. We are committed to excellence through respect, pride, passion, and community service.

Northland College seeks to prepare students to be active citizens and leaders who will address the world’s most pressing problems. This mission is advanced through students’ experiences with successes and challenges, and it’s reflected in the following community standards:

Cultivating respect and responsibility for self, others, and our shared environment
Encouraging personal and intellectual courage and growth
Manifesting integrity and honesty in all decisions and actions
Promoting healthy, safe, and balance lifestyles
Fostering a diverse and inclusive community committed to civility, open-mindedness, and finding common ground

Therefore, a balance of individual and community growth and health guides Northland’s approach to all endeavors, and to the policies that support those endeavors.

Northland’s Diverse and Inclusive Community

At Northland, we strive to make our campus a respectful, engaged community that embraces difference, with all the complexity and individuality each person brings. We work to build and maintain a diverse and inclusive community that is committed to broad educational opportunities and to operating within an atmosphere of respect for one another. Student-athletes are expected to conduct themselves in accordance with those principles. (See also the NCAA’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Gender Equity Framework.)

Sportsmanship and Spectator Conduct

Remember that you are a representative of your team and your institution and always act in a proper manner.
Rise above the desire to react less than honorably in difficult situations.
Choose a response you will be proud of after that moment.
Retaliation when you’ve been the victim of poor sportsmanship will worsen an already bad situation. Trust coaches and officials to properly handle the issue.
Help keep you teammates in line. Be a leader. “Trash talking” reflects poorly on you and your team.
Talk with friends and family in between games so that they understand what is expected of them when attending games.

In addition, all Northland student-athletes are expected to conduct themselves with the same level of sportsmanship and respect regardless of whether they are participating as a member of an athletic team or as a spectator. Student-athletes are expected to comply with the following tenets applicable to spectators:

Be Loud, Be Proud, and Be Positive!
Cheer for your team’s student-athletes, but do not cheer against student-athletes from opposing teams.
Refrain from using profane language and shouting negative comments towards student-athletes and game officials.
Treat visiting fans and student-athletes the way you would like to be treated when visiting other institutions.
Seek out game management personnel and security when other fans are acting improperly.
Remember that you are watching college-age, student-athletes competing in a sport that they enjoy.

Student-Athlete Eligibility

Academic and General Requirements

Please refer to NCAA Bylaw, Article 14.

Eligibility

To be eligible to represent Northland College in intercollegiate athletics competition, a student-athlete shall be enrolled in at least a minimum full-time program of studies, be in good academic standing, and maintain satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate or equivalent degree.

At Northland College, full-time status consist of taking at least 12 credits each semester; except in the final term prior to the completion of a student’s baccalaureate degree, when taking less than 12 credits is permissible.

Minimum GPA for Participation in Extracurricular Activities

The faculty of Northland College have established the following minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) standards for students who participate in athletics or who hold leadership positions in student affairs or extracurricular organizations. Credits include those attempted at Northland College, as well as those transferred from other institutions.

Following 24 credits attempted,* a participant’s cumulative GPA must be at least 1.80
Following 36 credits attempted, a participant’s cumulative GPA must be at least 2.00

After 36 credits attempted, if a student’s semester GPA falls below 1.50 or the cumulative GPA falls below 2.00, that student is no longer eligible to participate in athletics, serve as an officer of a club or organization, or serve as an Outdoor Orientation, resident assistant, or FYE leader until the most recent semester’s GPA is above 1.50 and the cumulative GPA is above 2.00.

Autonomous athletic teams, extracurricular organizations, and the Office of Student Affairs may establish and administer higher GPA standards on participation at their discretion, but no standards shall be established below this minimum. Responsibility for communicating, managing, and adhering to alternative GPA standards lie with the respective team, group, organization, or office and the student participant.

*“Credits attempted” includes credits from courses completed, courses failed, and courses withdrawn from following the semester census (fourteen days after the start of the term).

Approved by the Faculty Council on March 13, 2018

Credit Hour Requirement

All student-athletes must be registered and complete at least 12 credits for fall and winter semester, and successfully pass 24 credits per year, in order to remain eligible to participate in athletics at Northland College. This credit requirement is regardless of a traditional season or a non-traditional season participation and is for the length of the student-athlete’s eligibility at Northland College.

Exception: Per NCAA regulations, a student-athlete may practice or compete while enrolled in less than a minimum full-time program of studies, provided that student is enrolled in the final semester of quarter of the baccalaureate or graduate program and the institution certifies that the student is carrying (for credit) the courses necessary to complete degree requirements. NCAA 14.1.8.1.6.1.

Progress Reports

Progress reports will be distributed to each student-athlete at least once a semester. It is asked that faculty report any student-athlete’s grades that are a C o below, or if they have any concerns about the student’s commitment to the class. It is required that all student-athletes that have below a 2.0 GPA from the prior semester, as well as a cumulative GPA below a 2.5 receive a progress report from their coach, to be filled out by their professors, turned back into the coach to be saved on file.

Study Hall

Study-hall hours for each program are encouraged. The frequency and level at where a student-athlete must attend study hall is up to the head coach of that program. The practice of the study hall for each program will need to receive approval from the director of athletics.

Any student-athlete that participates in more that one sport can attend study hall requirements of the sport they are currently participating in. Once, and if participation is complete before the end of the academic year, the student-athlete must participate in a study hall requirement for any of the programs they participate in.

Drop-Add

A student-athlete no longer shall be considered enrolled in a minimum full-time program of studies (after dropping a course that places the student below full-time status) when the dropped course becomes official in accordance with procedures determined by the institution for all students. A student-athlete who is adding a course to reach full-time status shall become eligible for practice and competition once the course has been approved by the appropriate department head (or designated representative) and submitted to the registrar.

Amateurism

A student-athlete shall not be eligible for participation in an intercollegiate sport if the individual takes or has taken pay; or has accepted the promise of pay in any form for participation in that sport; or if the individual has violated any of the other regulations related to amateurism set forth in NCAA Bylaw, Article 12.

Awards, Benefits and Expenses

Receipt by a student-athlete of non-permissible awards, extra benefits, or excessive or improper expenses not authorized by NCAA legislation violates the association’s amateurism principle and renders the student-athlete ineligible for athletics participation in the sport for which the improper award, benefit or expense was received. (NCAA Bylaw, Article 16)

Any athletics awards given to individual student-athletes shall be limited to those approved or administered by an institution and shall be limited to normal retail value and number.

Additionally, an individual may not receive a cash award for athletics participation. An individual may not receive a cash-equivalent award (i.e. an item that is negotiable for cash or trade or other services, benefits or merchandise) for athletics participation. Prior to accepting any award, benefit or support service, for a sport for which a student-athlete competes at Northland, please contact the Department of Athletics.

Transfer Release

A student-athlete participating at a Division III institution (such as Northland) may issue, on his or her own behalf, permission for another Division III institution to contact the student-athlete about a potential transfer. The student-athlete shall forward this to the director of athletics at the institution of interest.

Financial Aid

A student-athlete who receives financial assistance other than that authorized by the NCAA shall not be eligible for intercollegiate athletics. (NCAA Bylaw, Article 15).

Study Abroad

A student-athlete who is abroad at a Northland College (or Northland approved) program in the fall is eligible to compete and practice during winter term if, in that fall semester, the student-athlete is enrolled as a full-time student of that program.

A winter student-athlete who is going abroad in the spring on a Northland College (or Northland approved) program, is eligible to compete and practice in the spring, while not taking classes when the spring semester starts, if the student is accepted for enrollment as a regular full-time student in that upcoming spring semester in the program abroad.

NCAA Transgender Policy

Northland complies with the NCAA’s Transgender Policy, which is aimed at allowing the student-athlete to participate in competition in accordance with their gender identity while maintaining the relative balance of competitive equity among sports teams. The NCAA’s policy allows transgender student-athletes to participate in sex-separated sports activities so long as the athlete’s use of hormone therapy is consistent with the NCAA policies and current medical standards, which state:

A trans male (female-to-male) student-athlete who has received a medical exception for treatment with testosterone for gender transition may compete on a men’s team but is no longer eligible to compete on a women’s team without changing the team status to a mixed team. A mixed team is eligible only for men’s championships.
A trans female (male-to-female) student-athlete being treated with testosterone suppression medication for gender transition may continue to compete on a men’s team but may not compete on a women’s team without changing it to a mixed-team status until completing one calendar year of documented testosterone-suppression treatment.

Questions regarding student-athlete eligibility should be directed to the Athletics Department.

Student-Athlete Conduct

Student-athletes are subject to all Northland College conduct policies, and any student-athlete who violates College policy may be subject to discipline, as with any other student, up to and including dismissal from the College. In addition, athletics-related discipline, up to and including dismissal form the team, may be imposed by coaches, at their discretion, for violation of College conduct policies. Coaches will have access to all information related to alleged policy violations and/or the outcome of any judicial board hearings or determinations made by other College officials.

Student-athletes may also be subject to athletics-related discipline by their coach, up to and including dismissal from the team, for violation of team policies, rules, and expectations. Athletics-related discipline in this context is distinct from College discipline for violation of College conduct policies, and is at the discretion of the coach.

Student-athletes are expected to be familiar with all College, NCAA, UMAC, NCHA, and WIAC policies, including the following:

Hazing

While being part of a campus group can be a meaningful aspect of student life, hazing is a hidden problem that undermines the value of these experiences. Although hazing is not unique to Northland College, we believe that it is important to examine these practices openly in an attempt to overcome the secrecy that perpetuates them.

What students should know:

Hazing is a violation of Northland College policy.
Hazing takes various forms, but typically involves physical risks or mental distress through, for example, humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning treatment.
Hazing can cause significant harm to individuals, groups, and the College.
Hazing has occurred in social houses, athletic teams, performance groups, and other organizations.
Groups that haze often view it as positive and necessary.
Groups that haze can achieve the positive outcomes they seek from hazing through non-hazing means.

Hazing Policy

Northland College community standards include promoting healthy, safe and balance lifestyles. Student organizations and athletic teams can play a vital role in this process, and can provide transformative opportunities for friendship, leadership, and personal growth and discovery. Hazing of any kind is antithetical to these goals; therefore, the College prohibits hazing activities whether by an individual or an organization.

Definition: For purposes of this policy, hazing is defined as any act committed by a person, whether individually or in a concert with others, against a student in connection with pledging, being initiated into, affiliating with, holding office in, participating in, or maintaining membership in any organization or team affiliated with Northland College; and which is intended to have the effect of, or should reasonably be expected to have the effect of, humiliating, intimidating, or demeaning the student or endangering the mental or physical health of the student. Hazing also includes soliciting, directing, aiding, or otherwise participating actively or passively in the above acts. The College will use a “reasonable person” standard when evaluating such conduct and its potential effects.
Consent: Because of the socially coercive nature of hazing, implied or expressed consent to hazing is not a defense under this policy.
Retaliation: Retaliating against a person who has in good faith filed, supported, or participated in an investigation of a complaint of hazing as defined above, is prohibited. Retaliation includes but is not limited to ostracizing the person, pressuring the person to drop or not support the complaint, or provide false or misleading information, or otherwise engaging in conduct that may reasonably be perceived to affect adversely that person’s educational, living, or work environment. Depending upon the circumstances, retaliation may also be unlawful, whether or not the complaint is ultimately found to have merit.
Examples: College policies include the prohibition of many activities that have traditionally been associated with hazing, such as illegal alcohol use and abuse, vandalism, theft, verbal or physical abuse or threat of harm, sexual harassment, and other forms of harassment. In addition to those activities and conduct expressly prohibited elsewhere in this Handbook, examples of prohibited individual/group activities that may constitute hazing when otherwise falling within the definition above include but are not limited to the following:
1. 1. Encouraging the use of alcohol or illegal drugs
  2. Shaving, tattooing, piercing or branding
  3. Engaging in or simulating sexual acts
  4. Threatening or causing physical restraint
  5. Nudity
  6. Throwing substances or objects at individuals
  7. Assigning unreasonable chores or acts of servitude
  8. Forcing or coercing consumption or use of any substance
  9. Causing excessive exercise, sleep deprivation or excessive fatigue
  10. Interfering with adequate time for study
  11. Requiring the waring of apparel or acting in a way that is conspicuous and not with in community norms
  12. Blindfolding
Passive participation in hazing may include:
1. 1. Witnessing hazing taking place as a group member, affiliate, or guest
  2. Participating in or being present in person or via technology in discussions where hazing is planned
As these examples illustrate, hazing activities do not need to involve alcohol to be violation of this policy.
Accountability: Hazing activity occurring on or off the Northland College campus may lead to disciplinary proceedings again individuals. Hazing may also lead to the probation, suspension, or termination of a student organization or athletic team. Culpability for any violations of this policy may attributed to the active and/or passive participants, the student group and/or its members, and elected or appointed officers.
Policy Violation Review Process
1. Authority: The vice president for student affairs or an appropriate designee monitors the implementation of this policy. Any questions concerning the interpretation or applications of this policy should be referred to the vice president for student affairs and/or the director of athletics, for resolution.
2. Reporting: Activities believed to be hazing should be reported to the director of athletics or the vice president for student affairs.
3. Process: When an allegation of hazing is made, the vice president for student affairs will review the investigation as conducted by Campus Safety and/or other designated investigatory agent. The vice president for student affairs may suspend the activities of a student organization, athletic team, or individual members thereof, pending the outcome of the investigation.
  1. Athletic Teams: Athletic teams that have allegedly violated the College’s policy will have an opportunity to provide a responsive statement to the vice president for student affairs. In cases where there is sufficient evidence that College policy has been violated, the vice president for student affairs will levy sanctions against the student organization or team up to and including, but not limited to, permanent or temporary suspension of recognition and activities, denial of use of College facilities, or other similar sanctions.
  2. Individuals: The vice president for student affairs may also refer hazing allegations concerning individual students to the judicial affairs officer for review and adjudication.
4. Additional Policy Violations: Regardless of the outcome of a review for violations of the hazing policy, incidents may be reviewed by the judicial affairs officer for other violations of College policy.
Referral to Law Enforcement: The College will report allegations of hazing to law enforcement authorities when, in the judgement of the vice president for student affairs the nature of the allegations suggests that the hazing activity, if it occurred or is occurring, presents a risk of serious harm to students or other persons, or involves a potentially serious violation of law.
Reporting Hazing: Student who have been hazed, have witnesses hazing, or suspect that someone they know has been hazed are encouraged to immediately report their observations to any of the following College officials:
- Daniel Schumacher (Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics)
- Dawn Rivard (Chief of Staff)
- Chad Dayton (President)
To report a dangerous situation that is underway, call 911 for an immediate response. Alternatively, call Campus Security at 715-682-1399 or 715-209-1399.

Northland’s Nondiscrimination Statement/Title IX Coordinator

Northland complies with all applicable state and federal laws which prohibit discrimination in employment, or in admission or access to its educational or extracurricular programs, activities, or facilities, on the basis of race, creed, color, place of birth, ancestry, ethnicity, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, marital status, service in the armed forces of the United States, positive HIV-related blood test results, genetic information, or against qualified individuals with disabilities on the basis of disability and/or any other status or characteristic as defined and to the extent protected by applicable law.

The vice president of student affairs is responsible for coordinating compliance with federal and state anti-discrimination laws, including Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 as amended, which prohibits discrimination based on sex. Sex discrimination includes sexual harassment and sexual misconduct (including sexual assault). Title IX also prohibits discrimination on the basis of sex with regard to an educational institution’s athletic programs. For more information about Title IX requirements, please contact Northland’s Title IX coordinator or the Department of Education Office for Civil Rights, which is the agency responsible for overseeing Title IX compliance.

Anti-Harassment/Discrimination Policy

Discrimination, retaliation, and harassment, including sexual harassment, as defined by law and College policies, are strictly prohibited. A student who wished to report discrimination, or harassment, including sexual harassment, or related-retaliation, should contact the Title IX coordinator. The College will take reasonable and appropriate remedial action to prevent discrimination, harassment, and/or related retaliation, eliminate any hostile environment, and prevent recurrence of the behavior.

Sexual Misconduct Policy, Resources, and Information

Northland’s Sexual Misconduct Policy, which covers sexual assault and inappropriate sexual conduct, governs the behavior of all Northland College undergraduate students. Complaints or reports under the Sexual Misconduct Policy should be brought to the immediate attention of the vice president of student affairs. Students involved in the compliant process will be treated with the utmost sensitivity, dignity, and respect.

If a student experiences an event that may be sexual assault or other inappropriate sexual conduct, or even if the student is not sure, it is important to seek help as soon as possible from others who can provide medical care and supportive counseling. There are a wide array of emergency and long-term resources available to all students. All students are encouraged to report sexual misconduct incidents to the Ashland police, the Wisconsin state police, or other state or federal agencies.

Alcohol and Other Drugs

Northland College is committed to promoting individual and community health, safety, and responsibility. We expect all students to observe local, state and federal laws governing the possession, use, and furnishing of alcoholic beverages and controlled substances, also referred to as illegal drugs. We have also committed to ensuring that, in accordance with the Drug Free Schools and Community Act of 1989, our policies concerning alcohol and drugs are clear, readily understood, and applied consistently and equally to all students. All student-athletes are subject to the College’s alcohol and drug policy. When alcohol violations occur, student may face disciplinary action. In addition, as with other College conduct policies, student-athletes who violate Northland’s alcohol and other drugs policy may be subject to athletics-related discipline, up to and including dismissal from the team.

Impact of Alcohol Use on Athletic Performance

Current research indicates that the impact of even moderate alcohol use on athletic performance is much more significant than was originally known. Even moderate use (to to three drinks) results in:

A loss of motor coordination for up to twelve to eighteen hours after drinking.
Depleted aerobic capacity and negative impact on endurance for up to forty-eight hours after the last drink has been consumed.

Other effects of alcohol use which last for hours after the blood alcohol concentration has returned to zero include:

Impaired reaction time
Impaired balance and eye-hand coordination
Impaired fine motor and gross motor coordination
Decrease in strength
Increased fatigue—fatigue coming on more quickly
Difficulty in the body regulating its temperature, resulting in an increased risk of heat prostration
Dehydration

NCAA Banned Drugs

The presence in a student-athlete’s urine of a substance and /or metabolite of such substance belonging to a class of drugs currently banned by the NCAA shall be a cause for loss of eligibility. The following list of NCAA’s banned substances is not exhaustive and may be changed at any time. Thus, it is the student-athlete’s responsibility to check with the appropriate athletics staff before using any substance. In addition, the student-athletes should also consult NCAA.org for the most current list of banned drug classes or contact the NCAA national office at 317-917-6222.

The NCAA bans the following classes of drugs:

Stimulants
Anabolic Agents
Alcohol and Beta Blockers (banned for rifle only)
Diuretics and Other Masking Agents
Street Drugs
Peptide Hormones and Analogues
Anti-estrogens
Beta-2 Agonists

Note: Any substance chemically related to these classes is also banned.
The institution and the student-athlete shall be held accountable for all drugs within the banned drug class regardless of whether they have been specifically identified.

Some Examples of NCAA Banned Substances in Each Drug Class:
NOTE: There is no complete list of banned substances. Do NOT rely on this list to rule out any supplement ingredient. Check with the head athletic trainer before using any medications or supplement

Stimulants: e.g. amphetamine (Adderall); caffeine (guarana); cocaine; ephedrine; fenfluramine (Fen); methamphetamine; methylphenidate (Ritalin); phentermine (Phen); synephrine (bitter orange); methylhexaneamine; bath salts (mephedrone); etc. Exceptions: phenylephrine and pseudoephedrine are not banned.
Anabolic Agents: (sometimes listed as a chemical formula, such as 3,6,17-androstenetrione) e.g. boldernone; clenbuterol; DHEA (7-Keto); nandrolone; stanozolol; testosterone; methasterone; androstenedione; norandrostenedione; methandienone; etiocholanolone; trenbolone; etc.
Alcohol and Beta Blockers: (banned for rifle only) e.g. alcohol, atenolol; metoprolol; nadolol; pindolol; timolol; etc.
Diuretics (Water Pills) and Other Masking Agents: e.g. bumetanide; chlorothiazide; furosemide; hydrochlorothiazide; probenecid; spironolactone (canrenone); triameterene; trichlormethiazide; etc.
Street Drugs: e.g. heroin; marijuana; tetrahydrocannabinol (THC); and synthetic cannabinoids (e.g. Spice, K2, JWH-018, JWH-073).
Peptide Hormones and Analogues: e.g. growth hormone (hGH); human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); erythropoietin (EPO); etc.
Anti-Estrogens: e.g. anastrozole; tamoxifen; formestane; 3,17-dioxo-etiochol-1, 4, 6-triene (ATD); etc.
Beta-2 Agonists: e.g. bambuterol; formoterol; salbutamol; salmeterol; etc.

Any substance that is chemically related to the class, even if it is not listed as an example, is also banned (unless otherwise noted).

Drugs and Procedures Subject to Restrictions

Blood doping
Local anesthetics (under some conditions)
Manipulation of urine samples
Beta-2 agonists permitted only by prescription and inhalation
Caffeine if concentrations in urine exceed fifteen micrograms/ml

NCAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning

Before consuming any nutritional/dietary supplement product, review the product with the Athletics Department staff.

Dietary supplements are not well regulated and may cause a positive test result.
Student-athletes have tested positive and lost their eligibility using dietary supplements.
Many dietary supplements are contaminated with banned drugs not listed on the label.
Any product containing a dietary supplement ingredient is taken at the student-athlete’s own risk.

NCAA ADHD Rulings/Medical Exceptions

According to the NCAA’s Medical Exceptions Policy (which is part of its Drug Testing Program) “the NCAA recognizes that some banned substances are used for legitimate medical purposes. Accordingly, the NCAA allows exception to be made for those student-athletes with a documented medical history demonstrating the need for regular use of such a drug. Exceptions may be granted for substances included in the following classes of banned drugs: stimulants (including those used to treat ADHD), anabolic agents, beta blocker, diuretics, peptide hormones, anti-estrogens, and beta-2 agonists.” To review the full text of the NCAA’s Drug Testing Program, please logon and register at NCAA Connect.

The NCAA has instituted detailed guidelines for eligibility under medical exceptions for banned substances, including medications for male-pattern baldness, stimulants used to treat ADHD/ADD, peptide hormones (hGH), and anabolic steroids (testosterone). The student-athlete must have complete documentation, including a letter dictated by the prescribing physician, on file at the student-athlete’s school. This documentation needs to include all pertinent physical and psychological tests related to the diagnosis and treatment of the condition.

Peptide hormones (hGH) and anabolic steroids prescribed for medical conditions require application for a medical exception by the NCAA in advance of participation. For additional information regarding medical exceptions, see the NCAA’s Drug Policies.

In all cases, if a student-athlete does not meet the criteria for a medical exception, the student-athlete may request an appeal hearing of the positive drug test. In this case, the student-athlete’s eligibility will be suspended pending the outcome of the appeal.

All student-athletes must ensure they are in compliance with the NCAA ADHD rulings, six-month physical, and sickle cell screening.

Ineligibility for Use of Banned Drugs: According to NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5, a student-athlete who is found to have used a substance on the list of banned drug classes…, shall be declared ineligible for further participation in postseason and regular season competition in accordance with the ineligibility provisions in NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5.1. The certifying institution may appeal to the Committee on Student-Athlete Reinstatement for restoration of the student-athlete’s eligibility if the institution concludes that circumstances warrant restoration.” NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5.1, states that: “A student-athlete who, as a result of a drug test administered by the NCAA is found to have used a substance on the list of banned drug classes… shall be charged with the loss of competition during a minimum of one season of participation in all sports if the season of participation has not begun for that student-athlete or a minimum of the equivalent of competition during one full season of participation in all sports if the student-athlete tests positive during his or her season of participation (i.e. the remainder of contests in the current season and contests in the following season up to the period of time in which the student-athlete was declared ineligible during the previous year). The student-athlete shall remain ineligible for all regular season and postseason competition during the time period ending one calendar year (365) days after the collection of the student-athlete participates in any contests from the time of collection until the confirmation of the positive result, he or she must withheld from an equal number of contest after the 365-day period of ineligibility. The student-athlete’s eligibility must be restored by the Committee on Student-Athlete Reinstatement.”
Breach of NCAA Drug-Testing Program Protocol: In accordance with NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.5.1.1, “a student-athlete who is in breach of the NCAA drug-testing program protocol (e.g. no-show) shall be considered to have tested positive for the use of any drug other than a ‘street drug.’” “A student-athlete who is involved with the case of clearly observed manipulation of a NCAA drug test… shall be declared ineligible for further participation in postseason and regular season competition during the time period ending two calendar years (i.e. 730 days after the student-athlete was involved in the manipulation of a drug test).” NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5.1.1.1
Testing Positive on More than One Occasion: In accordance with NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5.1.2, “if the student-athlete, who tested positive for any drug other than a ‘street drug’ as defined by NCAA Bylaw, Article 31.2.3.4, tests positive a second time for the use of any drug other than a ‘street drug,’ he or she shall lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports. If the student-athlete tests positive for the use of a ‘street drug’ after having tested positive for use of any banned drug, he or she shall be charged with the loss of competition during a minimum of one additional season of participation in all sports also shall remain ineligible for regular-season and postseason competition during the time period ending one calendar year (i.e. 365 days) after the period of ineligibility for any prior positive drug tests have expired.”
Appeals: In accordance with NCAA Bylaw, Article 18.4.1.5.1.4, “An institution may appeal the duration of ineligibility to the Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports (or a designated subcommittee). In all sports, the committee may reduce the legislated penalty to withholding the student-athlete from competition during the next 50 percent of the season of participation or provide complete relief from the legislated penalty. If the committee requires the student-athlete to fulfill the legislated penalty or be withheld from competition during the next 50 percent of the season of participation in all sports, the student-athlete shall remain ineligible until the prescribed penalty is fulfilled, the student-athlete test negative and the student-athlete’s eligibility is restored by the Committee on Student-Athlete Reinstatement.”

NCAA’s Drug-Testing Program

Student-Athletes may be subject to testing under the following circumstances:

All student-athletes are subject to NCAA testing at NCAA championships.
Student-athletes may be tested before, during, or after NCAA championship events.
At NCAA team, championships, student-athletes may be selected on the basis of position, competitive ranking, athlete’s financial aid status, playing time, random selection, or other NCAA-approved selection method.
For team championship testing, student-athletes will be selected from the official travel party roster, official gate/credential list, championship participation sheets or official championship form.
At NCAA individual/team championships events, selection of student-athletes may be based on competitive ranking, random selection, position of finish, or other NCAA-approved selection method.

The NCAA’s Drug Testing Program also requires as follows: “Each academic year, a student-athlete shall sign a form prescribed by the Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports and approved by the Legislative Council in which the student consents to be tested for the use of drugs prohibited by NCAA legislation. Failure to complete and sign the consent form prior to practice or competition, or before the Monday of the fourth week of classes (whichever occurs first), shall result in the student-athlete’s ineligibility for participation (practice and competition) in all intercollegiate athletics.”

For further information regarding the NCAA’s Drug Testing protocols, please refer to the NCAA’s Drug Testing Program by logging in and registering at NCAA Consent. Also, Northland’s Athletics Department staff and/or team physician will provide additional information to student-athletes regarding the NCAA’s banned substances and drug testing protocols.

Tobacco Ban

“The use of tobacco products by a student-athlete is prohibited during practice and competition. A student-athlete who uses tobacco products during a practice or competition shall be disqualified for the remainder of that practice or competition (see NCAA Bylaw, Article 17.1.6.3).

The use of tobacco products by any individuals on the field of play—as well as during other championship activities such as banquets, autograph sessions, media conferences, and postgame interviews—At NCAA championships is prohibited. Violations of this policy shall be dealt with by the appropriate sports committee in accordance with the misconduct provision of NCAA Bylaw, Article 31.1.

Gambling

All Northland student-athletes must comply with the following NCAA Bylaw, which prohibit sports wagering: Sports wagering includes placing, accepting, or soliciting a wager (on a… student-athlete’s own behalf or on the behalf of others) of any type with any individual or organization on any intercollegiate, amateur, or professional team or contest. Examples of sports wagering include, but are not limited to, the use of a bookmaker or parlay card; internet sports wagering; auctions in which bids are placed on teams, individuals or contests; and pools or fantasy leagues in which an entry fee is required and there is an opportunity to win a prize.

A wager is an agreement in which an individual or entity agrees to give up an item of value (e.g. cash, shirt, dinner) in exchange for the possibility of gaining another item of value.

In accordance with NCAA Bylaw, Article 10.3., “the following individuals shall not knowingly participate in sports wagering activities or provide information to individuals involved in or associated with any type of sports wagering activities concerning intercollegiate, amateur or professional athletics competition:

Staff members of an institution’s athletics department
Nonathletic department staff members who have responsibilities within or over the athletics department (e.g. chancellor or president, faculty athletics representative, individual to whom athletics reports)
Staff members of a conference office; and
Student-athletes

Scope of Application
The prohibition against sports wagering applies to any institutional practice or any competition (intercollegiate, amateur, or professional) in a sport in which the NCAA conducts championship competition, in bowl subdivision football, and emerging sports for women.*

*Note: As an example, March Madness pools in which there is a monetary award or a tangible gift prize are prohibited.

Sanctions
The following sanctions for violations of NCAA Bylaw, Article 10.3, shall apply:

A student-athlete who engages in activities designed to influence the outcome of an intercollegiate contest or in an effort to affect win-loss margins (i.e. “point shaving”) or who participates in any sports wagering activity involving the student-athlete’s institution shall permanently lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports.
A student-athlete who participates in any sports wagering activity, through the internet, a bookmaker, or a parlay card shall be ineligible for all regular-season and postseason competition for a minimum of a period of one year from the date of the institution’s determination that violation has occurred and shall be charged with a loss of a minimum of one season of eligibility. If the student-athlete is later determined to have been involved in a later violation of any portion of NCAA Bylaw, Article 10.3, the student-athlete shall permanently lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports.

Athletic Training

Athletic Training Personnel

Sports Medicine Team
The Sports Medicine Team includes a variety of individuals with various medical expertise under the health care “umbrella”. These individuals are committed to supporting the student-athletes at Northland College. Listed below are the members of the Northland College Sports Medicine Team.

Team Doctor Responsibilities

A resource for Pre-Participation Physical Exams.
Examine referred student-athletes for assessment of injuries; prescribe treatment/management which will be carried out by the athletic training staff.
Communicates diagnoses and restrictions of student-athletes to the athletic training staff for our files.
Make recommendations regarding the physical health of student-athletes at Northland College.
Doctor(s) will have final authority for limitations or postponement of play.
Refer student-athletes to specialists when needed.
Respond to questions from athletic trainers, coaches, or student-athletes regarding conditioning, exercise, protective equipment, and other related matters.
Twenty-four hours access to the Medical Center of Ashland.

Athletic Trainers Responsibilities

Work with our team doctor and other health care workers.
Coordinate referrals and maintain communication with medical staff as necessary.
Evaluate and treat student-athletes when they present with injury or illness.
Order and maintain an adequate amount of all athletic training room supplies.
Administer therapeutic modalities under the regulations of the state of Wisconsin Licensure Board.
Direct and supervise the daily operation of the athletic training room.
Attend all home sporting events.
Supervise and direct student workers in the athletic training room.
Administer first aid to all student-athletes.
Oversee data entries of all injuries, emergency cards, and medical records.

Northland College Nurse Responsibilities

Oversee the general health of Northland College student-athletes.
Work with our team doctor, athletic trainer, and other health care workers.
Coordinate referrals and maintain communication with medical staff as necessary.

Student Workers
The National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) stresses the importance of professional care verses student care. Students at Northland College will have minimal education and will only be allowed to perform basic first aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Student workers are assigned to help cover sports teams and are responsible for water, a kit/cart, some taping depending on their skills, and basic first aid and CPR. Please remember they are students and are not classically trained as a certified athletic trainer.

Coaches
Due to the vast expanse of land that is used on a daily basis for practices and games, there may be times when the coach is the only responsibly trained college employee within sight of an event. This stresses the importance of having all coaches trained in first aid and CPR. When there is not a licensed athletic trainer (LAT) within sight, the coaches are responsible for helping care for the athletes’ injuries/illness. Coaches may also be asked to make a responsible decision for return to play criteria until the athlete has the ability to be seen by an LAT or physician. If one of the athletic training student workers happens to be a member of the team, they will find an LAT in the event of an injury and ask them to provide care and evaluation of our student-athletes.

Athletic Training Facilities

Location
The athletic training room is located inside Kendrigan Gymnasium at the end of the main hallway on the left side. It is available for use during normal operating hours and by appointment throughout the school year.

Hours of Operation
The Athletic Training Room will operate on a flexible schedule during the academic year due to multiple time changes of practices and games. Current hours will be posted on the Athletic Training Room door. Typical hours of operation will be flexible to accommodate for departmental meetings, rehabilitation appointments, scheduled practices, practice changes, and competitions.

On game days, the Athletic Training Room will be available for student-athlete preparation two hours prior to the contest and until all post-contest cleanup is completed. These hours will vary due to different start times, overlap, and required medical attention from the contest.
The Athletic Training Room will operate on an appointment only basis throughout the summer months.

Services
The Athletic Training Room services will be provided for Northland College NCAA student-athletes during practices and competitions. In the event of an injury, a student-athlete will be cared for with the devices and modalities available in the Athletic Training Room. The following is a list of available modalities and services:

Injury evaluation and assessment
Ultrasound
Electric stimulation
Moist heat packs
Ice bags, baths, and cups
Massage
Therapeutic rehabilitative and supervised exercises
Therapeutic taping and bracing
Injury padding

Major Holidays
The Athletic Training Room will only be open ½ hour prior to practices and remain open through the end of the practice during major holidays. It will remain closed for the remainder of the day. These holidays include Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, New Year’s Day, and Easter.

Athletic Training Room Rules
These rules are expected to be followed by all student-athletes, both home and visiting, along with coaches, athletic trainers, officials, and all others that may enter throughout the year.

No treatment will be given before an injury is evaluated.
Injuries should be reported as soon as possible.
Athletes must sign in treatment log before being treated.
Appropriate clothing must be worn.
No self-treatments are allowed, with the exception of minor wound care and tapings.
No loitering: get in, get what you need, get out to practice.
No swearing!
No illegal substances: chewing tobacco, supplements, etc.
No food or drink other than water.
Cell phones are for personal use only: no pictures or videos are allowed to be taken.
1. Those who are creating a distraction or disturbance with their cell phones will be asked to remove them from the athletic training room.
Remove wet/snowy shoes before entering.
Leave equipment and personal items (shoes, gloves, bats/balls) in hallway, locker, or gym.
Shower prior to being treated post-practice.
Equipment from the Athletic Training Room should stay in the Athletic Training Room, unless permission is granted and equipment sign out log is completed.
Do not leave a mess, clean up after yourself.
Treat athletic training staff with respect.

Non-Athletes
Due to liability issues, unless the situation is an emergency, the athletic training staff cannot treat non-student-athletes here at Northland College. Staff members will make appropriate referrals as needed.

Athletic Training Room Equipment Policy
Equipment located in the Athletic Training Room must remain on site unless permission is given from an athletic trainer and the log form is filled out. This includes coolers, medical bags, foam rollers, etc. If equipment is needed outside of this space please comply with the following conditions:

All equipment must be logged into the equipment check out book before being issued out to any athlete or coach.
NO equipment may be issued without permission from the athletic trainer.
1. When an athletic trainer is not available, head coaches are allowed access to the Athletic Training Room to obtain medical equipment in an emergency situation and access to coolers, water, and ice for non-covered practices only. (Please still inform your athletic trainer of what will be used.)
All equipment should be returned at the end of the competitive season unless the athlete has been granted permission for extended time.
All athletes that have not returned equipment at the end of their respective sport season will be reminded to do so.
All equipment should be returned in the same condition it was checked out in. Normal wear and tear on braces, sleeves, etc. is expected, but equipment that is improperly cared for or not returned will have to be paid for by the athlete or out of the teams’ sports budget.
All equipment should be signed back in when returned to the Athletic Training Room. Athletes/coaches should witness the sign in process.

Sport and Event Coverage

Traditional Season Practices
Coverage priority will be given to those sports that traditionally have a greater risk of traumatic injury. Every attempt will be made to provide coverage at all traditional season practices based on staffing and schedules with a LAT. The athletic trainer and student workers will usually be in the Athletic Training Room to be centrally located during practice times, with the occasional visit to practice.

Schedules
Athletic training staff will follow the schedule provided by the head coach. If practice times change and the LAT is not notified twenty-four hours in advance, there will be limited coverage. When an athletic trainer is not available, head coaches are allowed access to the Athletic Training Room to obtain medical equipment in an emergency situation and access to coolers, water, and ice for non-covered practices only. (Please still inform your athletic trainer of what will be used.)

All equipment should be returned at the end of the competitive season unless the athlete has been granted permission for extended time.
All athletes that have not returned equipment at the end of their respective sport season will be reminded to do so.
All equipment should be returned in the same condition it was checked out in. Normal wear and tear on braces, sleeves, etc. is expected, but equipment that is improperly cared for or not returned will have to be paid for by the athlete or out of the teams’ sports budget.
All equipment should be signed back in when returned to the Athletic Training Room. Athletes/coaches should witness the sign in process.

Non-Traditional Season
These seasons will have very limited coverage during practices due to the attention required by the traditional season of the other sports. If an injury occurs to a varsity athlete, notify an LAT and we will provide care as needed. Varsity student-athletes may utilize the Athletic Training Room during regularly scheduled hours for treatment and rehabilitation. Priority still lies with those student-athletes that are participating during their traditional season. Please remind your athletes that scheduling an appointment is preferred.

Games
All home events will have appropriate coverage in accordance with the NCAA, UMAC, and NCHA guidelines. A host LAT will be present at every home event. This LAT will provide services for both teams. They are there for the health and safety of all the student-athletes. In the event of a visiting student-athlete being injured, a host LAT will evaluate the issue and determine the proper care with regards to the best interest of the student-athlete. In this situation, the visiting school’s LAT will also be notified at the conclusion of the event.

Team Travel

Any time an athletics team leaves the campus of Northland College, the head coach should have in their possession the medical travel packet with necessary documentation and supplies. This packet will be given at the beginning of each season by the athletic training staff. It is the coach’s responsibility to ensure that they carry this packet with them at all times during non-covered events. Coaches must also bring their kit in to have supplies replenished when necessary. Coaches that possess travel kits should return them to the AT staff at the end of their season.

In the event of a medical emergency in which a student athlete requires hospitalization and you are not traveling with an athletic trainer, the below parameters should be followed:

Inform the athletic director and head athletic trainer.
If there is a guardian, significant other, or family member available, they will be responsible for staying with the student athlete.
Head Coach
1. If traveling with a paid assistant coach, they will stay with the student athlete until a family member can reach the location. If no family member is available, either the head coach or assistant coach will stay with the injured athlete until they are cleared from the hospital. After clearance a car may be rented in order to return to Northland. The other coach will travel back with the rest of the team.
2. If a paid assistant coach is not available, the entire team will stay overnight in a hotel until a family member can reach your location or said student athlete is cleared from hospital (must have prior permission from the athletic director.)

Special Circumstances
(Camps, non-Northland games at a Northland venue)
These will be considered on an individual basis with proper planning and consideration of other schedules first. The LAT will be hired like any other counselor or game worker and paid for by the hosting party

Athletic Training Forms

Student-Athlete Forms
Every student-athlete will have to complete the following paperwork in order to participate in Northland College athletics. In the event that a portion of this paperwork is absent from a student-athletes file, they will not be allowed to participate in their sports. All of these forms can be found on the Northland College athletics website under Inside Athletics—Student Athlete Medical Forms. These forms must be returned to the LAT in order to be eligible.

Athlete Contact/Emergency Contact/Consent/Legal Paperwork
All student-athletes must complete the Contact/Consent to Treat form which has records of the student-athlete’s contact information, their emergency contact information, and informs the student-athlete they are participating in an NCAA sport and may be injured at some point during the season. This form should be completed prior to the start of each competitive season. This form also includes a statement approving the care they may receive from the athletic trainer or physician during their time participate in athletics at Northland College. It states that medical information is kept confidential and access is restricted unless a signed released is on file. This form should be completed prior to the start of each competitive season.

Insurance Form & Copy of Insurance Card
Northland College does not provide any health insurance to student-athletes for participating in varsity sports. All student-athletes must show proof of current insurance and must provide the athletic training staff with this information regarding their policy. Athletes are covered by the NCAA catastrophic athletic injury insurance program. This form and photo copy must be completed prior to the start of each competitive season.

Pre-Participation Physical Exam
All Northland College freshmen and transfer student-athlete must have a full physical examination by a licensed physician. These exams will allow the student-athlete to participate in four years of varsity athletics or until a new exam is warranted. This form must be completed prior to participation in the student-athlete’s sport.

Health History Questionnaire
All student-athletes must complete the health history questionnaire, which encompasses family history, personal health, and past injuries. These forms should be updated prior to the start of each competitive season.

Pre-Existing Conditions: If a significant pre-existing condition is noted by the medical staff, the condition will be recorded and referred as necessary for follow-up evaluation.

Sickle Cell Trait Status/Waiver
The NCAA and Northland College have recognized the importance of having knowledge of one’s Sickle Cell Trait status. This is completed by performing a simple blood test with a licensed practitioner. All student-athletes must submit the results of this test or sign the waiver provided by the Northland College athletic training staff. A positive status does not disqualify any student-athlete from competition, they must however, follow the guidelines setup with the licensed practitioner that performed the test.

Note: The sports medicine team at Northland College will review the information in confidentiality and reserves the right to question the student-athlete and/or medically disqualify any individual from play as necessary.

Outside Care
If a student-athlete receives care from an outside health care provider, the athletic training staff will need copies of that doctors dictations, rehabilitation protocols, surgical notes, and/or any information regarding the condition of the student-athlete. A release note stating the playing condition of the student-athlete will also be required. A student-athlete will not be allowed to participate until clearance is received by the outside care provider.

Athletic Injury Reports/S.O.A.P. Notes
Injury reports will be filed out on each injury and kept inside each student-athlete’s medical file. S.O.A.P. Notes will also be kept to track the progress of these injuries.

Release of Information
This form should be used when a Northland College student-athlete is seen by a doctor and the information needs to be passed on to the athletic training staff. It will allow the athletic training staff to keep the student-athlete’s medical folder up to date inside the Athletic Training Room. It will also allow all members of the sports medicine staff to communicate about proper treatment protocols and current diagnoses for a student-athlete.

Injury Management & Return to Play Criteria
When an athlete sustains an injury, it must be assured that they receive the best possible care for their injury. This is initialized by a proper injury evaluation by the LAT, the team doctor, or other qualified health care professional. Once the extent of the injury is determined, a protocol will be determined for the student-athlete to follow. These protocols should keep the student-athlete’s best interests in mind and allow for a full recovery before returning to their sport. This protocol should include:

Rest and recovery time
Therapeutic modalities to increase healing
Therapeutic rehabilitation
Functional tests

When returning to play, the student-athlete will be asked to satisfy multiple functional ability tests in order to prove they are healthy enough to withstand the rigors of college athletics. These functional tests will stress the student-athlete similar to the way they are stressed during participate in their sport. Only when a student-athlete can complete all of these tests, may they return to full participation in their respective sport.

Note: In the case that a student-athlete is seen by an outside health care professional, it is the responsibility of the student-athlete to provide the LAT with proper paperwork for treatment and return to play clearance.

Emergency Procedures

In the event that an injury should occur, the injured student-athlete should be cared for by the most qualified individual, whether it is the LAT, EMS, athletic training student worker, or coach. In a case when an LAT is not immediately available, the student-athlete should then be referred to the Athletic Training Room at once for evaluation. If the injured student-athlete is incapacitated, every effort should be made to contact the LAT. If the coach perceives the situation as an emergency, he/she should dial 911 and activate Emergency Medical Services (EMS). When it is practical, the coach must notify the LAT of the situation.

In the event of an Emergency WITHOUT an LAT present:

The coach is to respond to the emergency in a timely manner.
Follow American Red Cross Procedures of Check, Call, and Care.
Locate a person to contact the EMS.
Locate a person to greet the EMS and direct them to the injured student-athlete.
The coach is to provide 1st Aid and comfort for the student-athlete until a more qualified individual (EMS) has arrived.
Once the EMS has responded, they can make the appropriate decisions regarding the student-athlete’s care.

In the event of an Emergency WITH an LAT present:

The LAT is to respond to the emergency in a timely manner.
Follow the American Red Cross Procedures of Check, Call, and Care.
Locate a person to contact EMS.
Locate a person to greet the EMS and direct them to the injured student-athlete.
The LAT is to provide 1st Aid and appropriate care until EMS has arrived.
Once EMS is on scene, the appropriate measures should be taken to transfer care to EMS to provide appropriate care for the student-athlete.

Venue Specific

Ponzio Stadium—Soccer & Lacrosse
1411 Ellis Ave.
Ashland, WI 54806
Campus Location
Rear of the Northland College campus, on the left of the entrance road once past the physical plant and parking lots
Severe Weather Shelter
Primary: Chapple Gymnasium
Secondary: Vehicles (bus & cars)

Baseball/Softball fields
16th Ave. East
Ashland, WI 54806
Campus Location
Emergency Medical Services should utilize the utility entrance to reach both fields. Softball is located past the baseball field’s centerfield fence
Severe Weather Shelter
Primary: The Maintenance shed
Secondary: Vehicles (buses & cars)

Chapple Gymnasium—Basketball & Volleyball
1411 Ellis Ave.
Ashland, WI 54806
Campus Location
Rear of the Northland College Campus, on the right side of the entrance road once past the dorm and compost buildings

Bay Area Civic Center—Hockey
320 4th St. West
Ashland, WI 54806

Chequamegon Golf Course—Golf
3000 Golf Course Rd.
Ashland, WI 54806
16th Ave. East
Ashland, WI 54806
Campus Location
Emergency Medical Services should utilize the utility entrance to reach both fields. Softball is located past the baseball field’s centerfield fence
Severe Weather Shelter
Primary: The Maintenance shed
Secondary: Vehicles (buses & cars)

Severe Weather Policy
For our outdoor intercollegiate athletic teams, severe weather is a frequent hazard impacting the events. Lightening, specifically, is the most frequent. Due to the possibility, uncertainty, and severity of weather during outdoor competition, it is important for officials, teams (visiting and home), coaches, spectators, and game day staff to follow appropriate protocol when it becomes apparent that severe weather is approaching.

Data Collection

Flash-to-Bang Method: A simple method that does not require the use of any equipment and is recommended by the National Athletic Trainer’s Association and the NCAA. To use the Flash-to-Bang method, begin counting seconds as soon as lightning is seen. When thunder is heard, stop counting. Divide the number of seconds counted by five to determine the distance (in mile) to the lightning strike. Ex: twenty-five seconds counted / five = 5 miles away
Lightning Detector: The LAT will have on his/her person, or assigned to a student worker, a devise that is used to calculate the position of an incoming storm. This device will assist game officials in monitoring the movement of severe storms as the approach and move away from the game. It will allow storms to be detected up to forty-miles away.

It is the responsibility of the LAT to check this website on days that outdoor contests occur. The website weather.com will allow the LAT to go outside the immediate area for radar and forecasts for that day. The website should be accessed initially via a computer but may also be used via Smartphone while on the sidelines.

Activity Suspension Criteria
The LAT is responsible for monitoring the field of play and approaching severe weather as soon as one member of a competing team steps on the field until the completion of the event. Prior to this time, it is the determination of the coaching staff and game day officials to make the call on playability of the playing surface. The above parties will make game day staff, officials, and coaches aware of approaching storms and the possibility that the event may need to be suspended.

When using the Flash-to-Bang Method, a count below thirty seconds (less than six miles) will be sufficient cause for suspension of play. During this time, players, officials, spectators, and game day staff should seek shelter until the all clear is given.
When using the Lightning Detector, lightning detected within ten miles is sufficient cause for suspension of play. During this time, players, officials, spectators, and game day staff should seek shelter until the all clear is given.

Criteria for returning to play from a Weather Delay
When an activity is suspended or postponed due to severe weather activity, return to play will be determine by the Thirty-Minute Rule by the LAT As the storm continues to be monitored by the above data collection devices, a running clock will be set each time lightning is seen OR thunder is heard. Thirty minutes must pass from the last visible lightning strike OR audible thunder clap. This clock will be reset for each strike or clap. Blue skies do not determine return to play as lightning can travel from a storm cloud through clear skies.

Seeking Appropriate Shelters
When an activity is suspended, all of the people attending the game must clear the field of play in order to seek appropriate shelter. This primary shelter should be a substantial, frequently used building that can shield inhabitants from the severity of the weather. A secondary structure may be a fully enclosed vehicle with a metal roof and closed windows. Avoid high places, open fields, isolated trees, dugouts or picnic shelters, flagpoles, scoreboards, bleachers, fences, convertibles, golf carts, or any other shelter that is not listed as a safe, substantial building.

In the event of a suspended activity, an announcement will be made over the public address system to alert all attendees of the impending danger. It should also give advice as to what appropriate steps need to be taken during the suspension.

Managing Lightning Strike Victims
Proper care will be given to a person who has been, or suspects they have been struck by lightning. Due to the lack of continual contact to the source, a victim may be handled without fear of secondary strike. However, personal safety must be considered before care is given in a dangerous setting.

Follow the American Red Cross procedures of Check, Call, and Care.
Locate a person to contact EMS.
Remove the victim out of the harmful situation.
CPR should be applied along with an AED due to the high survival rate when they are applied early.
Locate a person to greet EMS and lead them to the victim.
Once EMS is on scene, the appropriate measures should be taken to transfer care to EMS to provide appropriate care for the student-athlete.

Note: If there is more than one victim, care will be provided to the most severe victim first.

Pregnancy Policy

Northland College supports and provides opportunity for female student-athletes to compete in NCAA athletics. In the event that one of these female student-athletes, or a significant other of a student-athlete, becomes pregnant, it is under the recommendation of the sports medicine staff that the individual seek appropriate care during this time. Assessing the benefits and risks of intense, strenuous physical activity during pregnancy is difficult due to the limited happenings in NCAA athletics. Some of the benefits include improved cardiovascular function, limited weight gain, reduced fat retention, improved mental state and attitude, an easier labor cycle, and enhance postpartum recovery are often seen in physically active pregnant women. Risks associated with physical activity may include increase core body temperature, vaginal bleeding, difficulty breathing, dizziness, headache, chest pain, muscular weakness, abdominal pains, and decreased movement of the baby.

If a pregnant student-athlete consults with her obstetrical doctor and they decide she may compete while she is pregnant, she should:

Be made aware of the potential risks of her particular sport and exercise in general while pregnant.
Be encouraged to discontinue exercise when feeling over-exerted or when any warning signs are present.
Follow the recommendations of her obstetrical provider in coordination with the team doctor.
Take care to remain well-hydrated and to avoid over-heating.
After delivery or termination of pregnancy, medical clearance is required to ensure the student-athlete’s safe return to athletics. It may take four to six weeks postpartum for a women’s body to return to pre-partum status, however, there are no known maternal complications from returning to training. Individualized practice plans should be developed to allow the student-athlete to return to competitive shape.

Eating Disorder/Disordered Eating Policy

Eating disorders, and disordered eating, are an unfortunate experience that some student-athletes have to deal with. Although approximately ninety percent of all eating disorder cases involve young females, male student-athletes are also susceptible. These conditions are associated most frequently with student-athletes that need to be extra conscious of their weight and body shape, for example: wrestling, cross country/ track and field, swimming/diving, gymnastics, and cheerleading.

When a student-athlete is suffering from an eating disorder or disordered eating, they will experience symptoms that include starving themselves, binge eating and voluntary purging of the stomach, skipping of meals, and eating unusual foods as meals. During this type of disorder, the student-athlete will lose weight or change body type, experience a possible performance reduction, discontinue normal eating patterns with teammates, and have possible mental distress throughout the ordeal. The following is a list of the most common eating disorders and the symptoms that are found to be related.

Anorexia Nervosa

Definition: Self-imposed starvation in an obsessive effort to lose weight and to become thin
Warning Signs: Drastic weight loss, a preoccupation with food, calories and weight, wearing baggy or layered clothing, relentless and excessive, mood swings, and avoiding food-related social activities

Bulimia Nervosa

Definition: Recurring binge eating usually followed by some method of purging such vomiting, diuretic or laxative abuse, or excessive exercise
Warning Signs: Excessive concern about weight, bathroom visits after meals, depressive moods, strict dieting followed by eating binges, and increasing criticism of one’s body

Bulimarexia

Definition: Anorexia nervosa with practice of one or more bulimic behaviors
Warning Signs: See above.

Disordered Eating

Definition: The result of irregular eating behaviors that do not warrant a diagnosis of a specific eating disorder
Warning Signs: Serious awareness of food and body image, symptoms less severe but similar to eating disorders, limiting food intake, eating in excess, missing multiple meals, use of food to resolve underlying emotional issues, and a feeling of guilt, fear, or anxiousness about eating.

How to deal with a suspected eating disorder
Upon the suspicion of an eating disorder in a Northland College student-athlete, great care must be taken when preparing to confront them. Most people afflicted by any form of eating disorder are extremely sensitive to the idea of suffering from an eating disorder. The LAT will discuss the disorder with the student-athlete and provide them with the proper channels for them to seek help, including but not limited to the contact information to the school nurse, team doctor, and local mental health care professionals. Student-athletes returning to athletic competition will have to follow the same steps as a student-athlete returning from an orthopedic injury. All health care professionals must clear the student-athlete prior to their return.

Concussion Policy

When a student-athlete sustains a blow to the head, and possible concussion, it is the responsibility of the student-athlete and coach to make sure the injury is reported to the athletic training staff. Each student-athlete will be dealt with on an individual basis due to the differing severities of this injury.

Baseline Testing
Every student-athlete at Northland College must take a baseline ImPACT test. This test is completed through the ImPACT website and must be completed at the beginning of their first academic school year at Northland College.

These baseline tests will be reviewed by the sports medicine staff for quality of results.

Managing a Head Injury
Upon sustaining a head injury, the student-athlete will be removed from the competition/practice for assessment and evaluation. All symptoms will be documented by the athletic training staff and passed onto the team doctor as the situation calls. Each student-athlete will take a Post-Injury 1 ImPACT test within twenty-four hours of the injury. The sports medicine staff will then compare the individual’s baseline test to the results of their Post-Injury test. Symptoms will continue to be monitored by the student-athlete and athletic trainer until they have completely ceased. Referrals will be made to the team doctor when the situation calls.

Return to Play
Student-athletes must meet the following requirements before they will be allowed to return to any form of their sport:

Symptom free for at least twenty-four hours
Post-Injury ImPACT results similar to Baseline results
Is able to perform simple physical activities without recurring symptoms
Has received clearance from a Licensed Practitioner (In doctor referred cases)

Upon meeting the above requirements, the student-athlete will begin limited participation in practices for their sport. As the student-athlete is able to handle more strenuous activity, their participation level will be increased incrementally by the sports medicine staff until they have reached 100 percent participation in practice. At this time, the student-athlete will be allowed to participate in a contest/game

Student Health Insurance

Northland College is committed to promoting good health to ensure the wellbeing and academic success of all students. It is for this reason that all students enrolled in 12 or more credits are required to have current health insurance coverage that is accessible within the United States. Students can choose to purchase the college-sponsored plan through the Wisconsin Physicians Service (WPS) OR provide proof of private health insurance that has similar coverage and benefits. For more information about the coverage provided in the health plan, please review their pamphlet or their website.

If a student has private health insurance coverage and wish to waive the College plan, they can complete the online waiver form. If you do not complete the waiver, they will be charged for the College plan.

Student-athletes must carry insurance that covers participation in intercollegiate athletics, with a minimum of $90,000 in coverage.

A few items to keep in mind in regards to insurance:

If the student-athlete’s parents do not have insurance, or do not have adequate insurance, the student-athlete will have to purchase an additional policy.
1. Insurance policies must cover up to $90,000.00
2. Insurance policies must cover athletic injuries
If the student-athlete is not from Wisconsin, they should use their school address for quoting and applying for coverage.
Student-athletes must purchase a plan that covers intercollegiate sports injuries.
It is recommended that the deductible of the plan should not be higher than $500 or $1,000.

Academics

Minimum GPA for Participation in Extracurricular Activities

Student-athletes, officers of recognized clubs and organizations, resident assistants, and Outdoor Orientation along with First Year Experience student leaders must maintain the following grade point averages in order to participate:

After completion of 24 credits GPA must be at least a 1.80
After completion of 36 credits GPA must be at least a 2.00

After 36 credits earned, if a student’s semester GPA falls below a 1.50 or the cumulative GPA falls below a 2.00, that student is no longer eligible to participate in athletics, serve as an officer of a club or organization, or serve as an OO, RA, or FYE leader until the most recent semester GPA is above a 1.50 and the cumulative GPA is above a 2.0.

Credit-Hour Requirement

All student-athletes must be registered and complete at least 12 credits for fall and winter semester, and successfully pas 24 credits per year, in order to remain eligible to participate in athletics at Northland College. This credit requirement is regardless of a traditional season or a non-traditional season participation and is for the length of the student-athlete’s eligibility at Northland College. Exception: Per NCAA regulations, a student-athlete may practice or compete while enrolled in less than a minimum full-time program of studies, provided that student is enrolled in the final semester of quarter of the baccalaureate or graduate program and the institution certifies that the student is carrying (for credit) the courses necessary to complete degree requirements. NCAA 14.1.8.1.6.1

Progress Reports

Progress reports will be distributed to each student-athlete at least once a semester. It is asked that faculty report any student-athlete grades’ that are a C or below, or if they have any concerns about the student’s commitment to the class. It is required that all student-athletes that have below a 2.0 GPA from the prior semester, as well as a cumulative GPA below a 2.5 receive a progress report from their coach, to be filled out by their professors, turned back into the coach to be saved on file.

Study Hall

Any student-athlete that participates in more that I sport can attend study-hall requirements of the sport they are currently participating in. Once, and if participation is complete before the end of the academic year, the student-athlete must participate in a study-hall requirement for any of the programs they participate in.

Absences

Student-athletes should be given a list of dates and times of scheduled games by their coach no later than the first day of classes in any term in which they are involved in a varsity/junior varsity sport. Student-athletes should compare each class schedule with their schedule of games. For any course in which there is a potential conflict between academic and athletic schedules, it is the student-athlete’s responsibility to contact the professor during the first week of class, or as soon as the scheduling conflicts are known and:

Identify times of conflict.
Together, arrive at an understanding of how missed work/ class might be made up.

Please Note:

Professors will do their best to accommodate student-athletes’ needs within reason.
The professor will make the final decision as to how the missed work is to be made up. In cases where the student-athlete approaches the professor at the beginning of the term, it is the professor’s responsibility to arrive at this decision in time to drop/add in situations where the professor’s decision is unsatisfactory. There are some cases for which there may be no satisfactory make-up possible.
Conflicts with official practices are also possible in the case of special class events, such as a guest lecturer. In such cases, student-athletes should discuss the situation with their professor and coach, and make a decision with full understanding of the ramifications of the decision.
Student-athletes should resolve conflicts through discussions with their professor and coach. If there are difficulties, student-athletes should consult the director of athletics or the vice president of student affairs, if necessary.

Note that missing a regularly scheduled class for a practice in no way constitutes an explained absence and is not expected or mandated by coaching faculty.

Although faculty members are expected to make their policy on course attendance clear at the beginning of the each course, it is the individual student’s responsibility to consult with his or her instructor as to the effect of explained absences.

As team leaders, captains should encourage team members to meet with professors to discuss possible conflicts. Captains should ensure that team members are aware of these guidelines on explained absences and understand that the process is one of negotiation between the coach, student, and professor.

Academic Support

The Department of Athletics does not offer individual tutoring for student-athletes. However, student-athletes are strongly encouraged to take full advantage of the academic support offered by the College.

Community Service

Northland’s athletic teams routinely engage in community service, and it is expected that all student-athletes promote and support their team’s community service activities. In additional, community service opportunities are available through SAAC (Student-Athlete Advisory Committee) which promotes and supports student engagement in the local, national communities.

Facilities

Use of Athletics Facilities

Facility use is for Northland College student, faculty, and staff ID card holders and their immediate family members (spouse and children under the age of 18) only. Guests may accompany ID card holders with reservation and on a one-to-one basis. Anyone using the Allen Fitness Center must show their ID upon request of the student workers.

Children of faculty and staff age thirteen and under must be accompanied and supervised by an ID-card holder.
Children of faculty and staff under the age of eighteen may use the facility; however they may not bring any guests.
ID is mandatory into the Allen Fitness Center and the Kendrigan Gymnasium.

Reservation of Athletic Facilities

To reserve an athletic facility for any team-related event, or any other event, please contact the Department of Athletics.

Equipment Room, Gear, and Lockers

In Season Athletics

Equipment, practice gear, and game gear will be issued at the beginning of the season to every student-athlete who has been cleared by their coach. Practice gear is laundered on a regular basis by the team delegate.

After the last event of the season all equipment and practice gear must be returned to your coach. A student who fails to return equipment will be billed.

Other Team-related Policies

Off-Campus Student Parking Policy

Any student-athlete who lives off-campus is able to obtain a parking permit to leave their car on campus overnight for campus sponsored events. The parking pass can be obtained from the director of athletics and is only valid during the student-athlete’s traditional playing season. All off-campus parking passes must be turned back into the director of athletics at the end of each traditional playing season.

Overnight Recruiting Visits/Host Responsibilities

When visiting campus, prospective student-athletes (PSAs) are expected to adhere to Northland’s conduct policies. The role of the student-host is to provide the necessary support so that the prospective has a positive and safe experience during the visit. Student-hosts are expected to help PSAs understand that they should be respectful towards others and that they are accountable for their behavior. In addition, the student-hosts are subject to the following:

Student-hosts must comply with the athletics alcohol and other drug policies, and individual team policies at all times. In addition, all student hosts, including those who are of legal drinking age, are prohibited from consuming alcohol during the PSAs visit.
Student-hosts are reminded that the legal drinking age in Wisconsin is twenty-one; supplying alcohol to those who are underage and/or the use of or supplying of controlled/illegal substances are violation(s) of College policy and are punishable by law.
The student-host must accompany the prospective at all times (unless other arrangements are made in advance with the coach.) If the prospective possesses or consumes alcohol or banned illegal substances during the visit, or if any other issues, problems, or concerns arise in connection with the conduct or the well-being of the PSA, the student-host must immediately contact Campus Security and the coach or the assistant coach. If there is an emergency, please call 911.

For safety and security reasons, the name and phone number of the PSA, and the student host will be on file with Campus Safety prior to the PSAs visit. While on campus, PSAs are expected to carry identification with them. A picture driver’s license or similar I.D. will suffice. Emergency medical treatment will be provided by the Emergency Room at the hospital. Because of insurance issues, PSAs cannot be treated on campus.

Student-Athletes on Campus During College Recess

Student-athletes who are required to be on campus while the College is in recess (e.g., Thanksgiving recess, December recess, winter term recess, spring recess) should be aware of the following policies and guidelines.

The housing and IT departments will grant access card privileges to all student-athletes who are approved to remain during recess or return early.
Coaches will inform their players of their approved residence hall return date during the recess (this date may be prior to the first practice date).
Student-athletes should be aware that when the College is closed regular residential life staff support may not be available.
Each student-athlete should designate a teammate who can check on them in the event of illness or injury.
Student-athletes must clean up after themselves and put trash into the appropriate containers, etc.
Student-athletes may not have guests or other student in the residence halls while the College is closed.
Student-athletes who need support should contact their coach. Coaches are responsible for student affairs-related matters such as:
- Handling changes in travel plans
- Confirming approved arrival date
- Assisting ill students with their meals
- Arranging for transportation on or off campus
- Parent notification
Coaches must be notified immediately if the student-athlete’s arrival date changes. The coach will notify housing and campus safety of the new arrival date.
Campus safety will notify the coach if there is any issue with a student-athlete.
If a student-athlete is ill or significantly injured, the student-athlete should not be on campus during the recess. The College does not have the resources in place to assist ill or injured students during this time. Student-athletes should discuss this directly with their coach prior to returning to campus.

Out-of-Season Practices

All out-of-season activity must be strictly voluntary and should never conflict with any academic obligation. Participation can never be a condition for making a team.

Permitted Out-of-Season Activities:
1. Organizational meetings at which there is no coaching or physical activity.
2. Conditioning programs with strength and conditioning coach.
3. Community service activities.
4. Educational programming, e.g. leadership education, alcohol education, hazing education.
5. Student-athletes may volunteer to work in sport-based clinics for youth provided:
  1. Clinics are conducted when classes are not in session, and
  2. Student-athletes work no more than two days in any given sport in an academic year.
Out-of-Season Organized Activities on Campus:
1. Must be open and advertised to all students.
2. No coaches may be present.
3. These activities are a “free play” environment. They are not to duplicate a practice that would be led by a coach; there may be no scripting of activities.
4. Any equipment provided must be available to all students.
5. Contests with outside teams or other colleges are prohibited (including small-sided games/competition).
6. Reservation of facilities for specific sport practice is required. These reservations are not to be made by your coach. Please contact another coach or the Facilities Coordinator to reserve a time slot and facility.
Out-of-Season Activities Off Campus:
Organized, institutionally supported and/or affiliated out-of-season practice and competition that take place off campus are prohibited. Individuals who choose to participate in athletics off campus do so at their own risk and may not infer from their participation that the activity is affiliated in any way with the institution. Individuals involved in competition out of season are not permitted to compete in the uniform of the institution or, during the academic year, use any apparel or equipment received from the institution that includes institutional identification. Additionally, individuals are not permitted to receive support or expenses (transportation, meals, etc.) from the institution for the competition.
Out-of-Season Strength and Conditioning Activities:
1. All out-of-season strength and conditioning activities are strictly voluntary.
2. Workout programs may be designed for student-athletes but distributed by the strength and conditioning coach.
3. Strength and conditioning facilities cannot be reserved for a team or limited in use to a specific team.
Testing of Teams:
Out-of-season physical fitness testing of teams by staff members is permissible under the following circumstances:
1. May be done on the day preceding the official starting date of the season (one day only). Winter and spring sport teams may conduct testing on one day no earlier than 3 days prior to the permissible practice start date.
2. For fall and spring sports, one other one-day session is allowed, except in the six-week period preceding the start of the season. For single segment sports (baseball, hockey, lacrosse, basketball, soccer, softball and volleyball) the testing must fall within the NCAA non-traditional segment. Testing for winter sports and two-segment sports (golf) must occur during the playing and practice season under NCAA guidelines.
3. Sport-skill testing is prohibited.

Team Travel

All student-athletes are required to conduct themselves in an appropriate and respectful manner at all times while traveling with their respective teams. Northland College student-athletes are subject to all Northland College policies at all times (including, but not limited to Northland’s alcohol and drug policies).

Fundraising

Fundraising is an important part of Northland College Athletics and its programs. It not only builds aid in support of teams’ needs and programs’ projects, but build community and campus relationships. Each of the programs is encouraged to fundraise as needed and the efforts of the student-athletes make it possible.

Along with individual sports fundraising programs, there will be a requirement of department-wide fundraising programs. These programs will help offset any costs associated with larger projects, trips and team/department needs. These projects are designed to use up as little of your time as a student-athlete as possible—but to maximize your efforts for participating.

Projects will be presented each year by the associate athletic director and monitored by your head coach. If you participate in more than one sport, you will still only count as one participant and meet the requirements for all programs.

Athletics Department staff members and/or teams are prohibited from maintaining funds or accounts that are not subject to institutional control and/or review.

Dining Service Policies Relating to Athletic Teams

Athletic Department Meal Policy:
1. No student-athlete may sign for meals on any athletics account.
2. All requests for dining service must be directed to Chartwells Dining Services.
3. Coaches are allowed to pay for on-campus, in-town, team meals, through their program’s budget, before meal plans are activated. Once meal plans are activated, all current students must purchase on-campus meals, with their ID and through their meal plan.

Media Requests

Student-athletes should not respond to any media requests (via email, phone, mail, or otherwise) without first obtaining permission from the sports information directors and their coach.