Blair Christian Academy’s 2008-2009
Guide For Middle and High School Athletics

• Blair Christian Academy’s Athletics  in conjunction with the school’s mission will distinguish itself by offering athletic programs that are committed to the following:

• Enabling each participant to play at his or her ability or level as circumstances allow.

• Being a source of fun and pride for students, faculty and parents.

• Keeping academic achievement as a first priority.

• Promoting good sportsmanship and respect for teammates, coaches and competitors.

League Competition

Blair Christian Academy is associated with the following Athletic Associations:

MASCA – Mid-Atlantic Christian Schools Association
NCSAA – National Christian Schools Athletic Association
PACSAC – Philadelphia Christian Schools Athletic Conference
ACSI – Association of Christian Schools International

League Competition takes place in the following sports:

Middle School Basketball
Middle School Track and Field Meets (2)

Academic Eligibility, Practice, and Participation

Students must maintain a 2.0 GPA or greater (75 average for major subjects) to be eligible to participate in any sport. Grades will be closely monitored by the Athletic and Executive Director. If the student signs up for a sport and then is not able, due to Academic Ineligibility, he or she must meet with the Coach, Athletic Director or Executive Administrator, and his or her parent to discuss a plan of improvement. Students will be evaluated at the end of each month and marking period as designated on the school calendar. Students receiving a failing grade may undergo reevaluation at the mid-marking period. Such students must receive a written recommendation from the appropriate teachers and must have improved the failing grade to a “C”.  Students will be declared eligible or ineligible on the last Friday of each month. Athletic Ineligibility will not be held over from one school year to the next. A “clean slate” policy will apply at the beginning of the school year.

Since joining a team is considered to be a commitment, the student is expected to attend every game and practice. If he or she misses two unexcused practices for any reasons, it may affect their participation in the games. If a student is absent from school on a game day, they will not be able to participate in the scheduled game.

Athletic Forms
All forms should be turned into the respective Coach by the date below.  Only students who submit forms by the due date will be added to the team roster.

Basketball – November 13, 2008
Track & Field – March 2, 2009

Team Apparel and Athletic Uniform Policy

Uniforms and warm up suits will be worn to every game by the student. If the student does not have his or her uniform, he or she will not be allowed to participate in the game. All questions relating to the Athletic Uniform Policy must be directed to the Athletic Director.

Parent’s Role

• Attend as many games as possible (at least one game per season).
• Do everything possible to make the athletic experience positive for your child and others.
• View the game with team goals in mind
• Release your child to the coach and the team.
• Remain in control.
• Accept the results of each game
• Demonstrate winning and losing with dignity.
• Be an encourager.
• Accept the goals and roles and achievements of your child.

Discussing a Concern

The most effective way to discuss a concern is to make an appointment to speak with the coach. It is often inappropriate to do so after a game or a practice. A time should be set aside that is convenient for everyone involved. If necessary, an appointment can be made with the Athletic Director after speaking with the coach.

Fundraising

Mandatory fundraising events will be held throughout the school year to help offset athletic expenses. Each student athlete will be required to participate in the Fundraisers.

The expenses being offset by fundraising are:

• Transportation to all games and offsite practices as needed.
• Water and Gatorade for each game.
• Hand Towels
• Warm Up Suits
• Soccer Shoes
• Shin Guards
• Uniform Rental (Basketball, Track)
• Soccer Uniform
• Gym Bag

Fees

Estimated fees for the school year total approximately $100.00.   If the student participates in more than one sport, a fee of $10.00 will be required for each additional sport.  All payments should be made in cash

Soccer:
$25.00 due by October 16th , 2007               
$25.00 due by October 30th, 2007
$25.00 due by November 13th, 2007
$25.00 due by November 27th, 2007

Basketball:
$25.00 due by October 30, 2007
$25.00 due by November 13, 2007
$50.00 due by November 27, 2007

Track & Field:
$25.00 due by March 4, 2007
$25.00 due by March 11, 2007
$25.00 due by March 18, 2007
$25.00 due by March 25, 2007

Athletic Awards Banquet

TBD

Athletic Department Directory – 215-438-6557

Kia Jenkins: Athletic Director ext 18, Email: kia.jenkins@blairchristianacademy.org
Terri Erwin: Athletic Coordinator ext 16, Email: athletics@blairchristianacademy.org
Coach Edwards: email -  o.edwards@blairchristianacademy.org
Coach McFadden: email -  d.mcfadden@blairchristianacademy.org