EDWARD WATERS COLLEGE ATHLETICS STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK 2020-2021

EDWARD WATERS COLLEGE ATHLETICS
STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK 2020-2021

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Staff Directory ................................................................................................................................... 4
Student-Athlete Handbook Introduction ......................................................................................... 5
 EWC Mission Statement................................................................................................................... 5
 Community Values .......................................................................................................................... 5
 NCAA Division II Philosophy ............................................................................................................ 6
 NCAA Core Values and Strategic Initiatives .................................................................................... 7
Intercollegiate Athletics .................................................................................................................... 8
 The Positive Game Experience ........................................................................................................ 8
 Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) ........................................................................................... 8
 Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) ................................................................................. 8
 Community Engagement and Outreach .......................................................................................... 10
 Student-Athlete Conduct ................................................................................................................. 11
 Gambling .......................................................................................................................................... 11
 Amateur Status ................................................................................................................................ 11
 Student-Athlete/Coach Conflict ....................................................................................................... 11
 Sexual Harassment/Sexual Assault .................................................................................................. 11
 Hazing/Harassment .......................................................................................................................... 13
 Social Media Policy ........................................................................................................................... 13
 College Citizenship ........................................................................................................................... 14
Student-Athlete Well-Being .............................................................................................................. 15
 Student-Athlete Survey .................................................................................................................... 15
 Athletics Administration Availability ................................................................................................ 15
 Tobacco ............................................................................................................................................ 15
 Alcohol.............................................................................................................................................. 15
Academics .......................................................................................................................................... 16
 Missed Class Time Policy .................................................................................................................. 16
Athletic Eligibility Rules..................................................................................................................... 16
 Full-Time Enrollment ........................................................................................................................ 16
 Holds ................................................................................................................................................ 17
 Add/Drop/Withdrawal ..................................................................................................................... 17
 Dropping a Class ............................................................................................................................... 17
 NCAA Freshman Eligibility Requirements ........................................................................................ 17
 Initial Eligibility ................................................................................................................................. 17
Progress Toward Degree Requirements ........................................................................................... 18
 Continuing Eligibility......................................................................................................................... 19
 Declaring a Major ............................................................................................................................. 19
 Requirements for Satisfactory Progress........................................................................................... 19
 In Good Standing .............................................................................................................................. 19
Academic Honesty ............................................................................................................................. 20
Academic Support ............................................................................................................................. 21
 Mandatory Advisement ................................................................................................................... 21
 Registration ...................................................................................................................................... 21
 Academics Athletic Records ............................................................................................................. 21
 Academic Monitoring ....................................................................................................................... 21
 Student-Athlete Study Hall............................................................................................................... 21
 Student-Athlete Study Hall Rules ..................................................................................................... 22
 Computer Usage Policy .................................................................................................................... 22

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Study Hall Warning........................................................................................................................... 22
 Study Hall Probation ........................................................................................................................ 22
 Study Hall Suspension ...................................................................................................................... 22
Academic Policies and Procedures ................................................................................................... 23
 Grades of C in Major/Minor ............................................................................................................. 23
 Repeat to Replace ............................................................................................................................ 23
 Class Attendance Policy ................................................................................................................... 23
 Class Absences Due to Illness or Injury ............................................................................................ 23
 Class Absences Due to Emergencies ................................................................................................ 23
 Class Absences Due for Competition Policy ..................................................................................... 23
Transfer Student-Athletes................................................................................................................. 24
 Eligibility of Incoming Transfers ....................................................................................................... 24
 Procedures for Transitioning out of EWC ........................................................................................ 24
 Release from EWC ............................................................................................................................ 25
 Appeal Procedures for Denial of the One-Time Transfer Exception ................................................ 25
Amateurism ....................................................................................................................................... 26
Outside Competition ................................................................................................................26
Gambling and Sports Wagering ................................................................................................26
Athletics Financial Aid Policies..................................................................................................27
 Additional Policies ............................................................................................................................ 27
 Grant-In-Aid Reduction, Nonrenewal and/or Cancellation ............................................................. 28
 Procedures for Appealing the Reduction, Nonrenewal or Cancellation of Grant-In-Aid ................. 28
Playing and Practice Season.............................................................................................................. 29
 Countable Athletically Related Activities ......................................................................................... 29
 Required Day Off During Playing Season ......................................................................................... 30
 Guidelines for Practice ..................................................................................................................... 30
 Guidelines for Competition .............................................................................................................. 30
Travel Policies .................................................................................................................................... 31
Facilities ..................................................................................................................................32
Equipment and Uniform Policies and Procedures ......................................................................32
Requesting to Meet with Athletics Administration ....................................................................32
Student-Athlete Exit Interviews ................................................................................................32
End of Season Surveys..............................................................................................................32
Drug Testing Policy...................................................................................................................33
 NCAA Drug Testing Policy................................................................................................................. 33
 EWC Drug Testing Policy .................................................................................................................. 33
 Failure to Participate ....................................................................................................................... 33
 Prohibited Substances...................................................................................................................... 34
 Additional Substances ...................................................................................................................... 34
 Confidentiality .................................................................................................................................. 34
Athletic Training Room Information .........................................................................................35
 Hours of Operation .......................................................................................................................... 35
 Rules and Regulations ...................................................................................................................... 35
 Sports Coverage ............................................................................................................................... 36
Strength and Conditioning........................................................................................................37
Sports Information ...................................................................................................................39
 Interview Tips for Student-Athletes ................................................................................................. 39
Appendix .................................................................................................................................41-47

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Edward Waters College Athletics Staff Directory
Name Position Email Office Number
Paul A. Bryant Dir. of Intercollegiate Athletics tigers_athletics@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276
Abiola Wilson-Brigmon Dir. of Acad. Services./SWA a.wilsonbrigmon@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276
Henry Smith Assistant Athletics Director hsmith@ewc.edu (904) 470-8386
Jason Pompey Director of Athletics Compliance jason.pompey@ewc.edu (904) 470-8993
Joshua C. Jackson Sports Information Director j.c.jackson@ewc.edu (904) 470-8782
Carmelia Smith Administrative Assistant cssmith@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276
Larry Bell Head Athletic Trainer larry.bell@ewc.edu (904) 470-8938
Marcus Richardson Head Strength & Conditioning Coach m.richardson@ewc.edu (904) 470-8287

FOOTBALL
Greg Ruffin Head Football Coach g.ruffin@ewc.edu (904) 470-8285
Jean Dessein Asst. Head Coach/Off. Coordinator jean.dessein@ewc.edu (904) 470-8284
Ray Tiller, Sr. Running Backs Coach (904) 240-5022
Daryl Bartley Offensive Line Coach
Christopher Brown Wide Receivers Coach/Special Teams
Javari Kelly, Sr. Defensive Line Coach
Rod Harris Cornerbacks Coach
Sammy Lee Williams Linebackers Coach

MEN'S BASKETBALL
Fredrick Summers Head Men's Basketball Coach mensbasketball@ewc.edu (904) 470-8287
Derrick Bails Assistant Men's Basketball Coach derrick.bails@ewc.edu (904) 470-8399
Howard White Assistant Coach
Gabe Roziers Director of Basketball Operations

WOMEN'S BASKETBALL
Charmaine Wilson Head Women's Basketball Coach c.wilson@ewc.edu (904) 470-8289

BASEBALL
Reginald Johnson, II Head Baseball Coach r.johnson@ewc.edu (904) 470-8043
Reynaldo Otero Assistant Coach r.otero@ewc.edu (904) 434-8394
Sean Stevens Assistant Coach (904)-470-8276
Kristopher Rowell Assistant Coach/Dir. of Operations (904) 208-0100

JV BASEBALL
Reynaldo Otero Head JV Baseball Coach r.otero@ewc.edu (904) 434-8394

SOFTBALL
Manny Perez Head Softball Coach mario.perez@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276

VOLLEYBALL
Shaquana Miller Head Volleyball Coach s.miller@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276

MEN'S & WOMEN'S CROSS COUNTRY/TRACK & FIELD
Le’Titia Parsons Head CC/Track & Field Coach l.wright@ewc.edu (904) 470-8276
Eddie Scott Assistant Cross Country Coach (904) 470-8276

CHEERLEADING
TBD Head Cheerleading Coach

WOMEN'S SOCCER
Kevin Mahlan Head Women's Soccer Coach tigers_sports@ewc.edu (904)-470-8276

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STUDENT-ATHLETE HANDBOOK INTRODUCTION

Edward Waters College is currently a member of the NAIA but has received an invitation to join the
Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference of the NCAA Division II and plans to apply for NCAA Division
II membership in February, 2021. During the time leading up to applying for NCAA Division II membership,
EWC has made the decision to apply NCAA Division II rules in all instances where they do not conflict with
NAIA rules. As such, the Student-Athlete Handbook includes Division II rules, regulations, and procedures
to ensure compliance with those rules.

EDWARD WATERS COLLEGE’S MISSION

Edward Waters College provides a student-centered, quality education supported by a foundation in
liberal arts, delivered by a committed faculty and staff emphasizing: a comprehensive educational
experience, tailored academic programs, critical reflection skills, mutual respect, that prepares a diverse
student population for fulfilling careers and responsible citizenship in a global society.

COMMUNITY VALUES
The Edward Waters College (EWC) community is committed to the integrity and personal growth of each
individual. Choosing to join the community obligates members to make positive contributions to the
community and be accountable for their own behavior. As adults and members of the community,
students are expected to conduct their lives in a manner that is consistent with good citizenship.

 I, as a member of this community:

 • Agree to respect the dignity of all persons in the community and will strive to learn from
 the diversity of our members’ cultures, races, abilities, genders, ages, sexual orientations,
 ideas and opinions.

 • Agree to pursue academic and personal excellence by attending class and establishing
 positive relationships with my professors.

 • Agree to avoid alcohol and other drug abuse, which hinders both academic and personal
 performance.

 • Agree to demonstrate concern for others by protecting the boundaries of our community
 from guests who might violate its safety.

 • Agree to respect the rights and property of others, as well as the College and surrounding
 communities.

 • Agree to do all in my power to see that the community is kept clean and attractive, knowing
 that such an environment is essential to both physical and emotional well-being.

 • Agree to challenge all the members of the community to abide by these fundamental
 expectations and will confront those who violate them in an appropriate manner.

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NCAA DIVISION II PHILISOPHY
In addition to the purposes and fundamental policy of the National Collegiate Athletic Association, as set
forth in the Constitution, Article 1, members of Division II believe that a well-conducted intercollegiate
athletics program, based on sound educational principles and practices, is a proper part of the educational
mission of a university or college, and that the educational well-being and academic success of the
participating student-athlete is of primary concern.
Higher education has lasting importance on an individual’s future success. For this reason, the positioning
statement for the division and the emphasis for the student-athlete experience in Division II is a
comprehensive program of learning and development in a personal setting. The Division II approach
provides growth opportunities through academic achievement, learning in high-level athletics
competition, and development of positive societal attitudes in service to community. The balance and
integration of these different areas of learning provide Division II student-athletes a path to graduation
while cultivating a variety of skills and knowledge for life ahead.
Members support the following attributes in the belief that these attributes assist in defining the division’s
priorities and emphasize the division’s position within the Association: Learning; Service; Passion;
Sportsmanship; Resourcefulness; and Balance. The positioning statement and the attributes shall serve as
a guide for the preparation of legislation by the division and for planning and implementation of programs,
initiatives, and policies by member institutions, conferences, and the Division II governance structure.
Furthermore, a member of Division II believes in a set of common features, which assist in defining the
division. Such features include exceptional teacher-to-student ratios that provide student-athletes with a
quality education, a unique model of staffing in which coaches provide additional services such as teaching
and mentoring, and the development of community partnerships and student-athlete participation in
community engagement activities.
A member of Division II also believes in the following principles, which assist in defining the division:
 a) Promoting the academic success of its student-athletes, measured in part by an institution’s
 student- athletes graduating at least at the same rate as the institution’s student body;
 b) That participation in intercollegiate athletics benefits the educational experience of its student-
 athletes and the entire campus community;
 c) Offering opportunities for intercollegiate athletics participation consistent with the institution’s
 mission and philosophy;
 d) That championships are intended to provide national-level competition among eligible student-
 athletes and teams of member institutions;
 e) Preparing student-athletes to be good citizens, leaders, and contributors in their communities;
 f) Striving for equitable participation and competitive excellence, encouraging sportsmanship and
 ethical conduct, enhancing diversity, and developing positive societal attitudes in all of its athletics
 endeavors;
 g) Scheduling the majority of its athletics competition with other members of Division II, insofar as
 regional qualification, geographical location and traditional or conference scheduling patterns
 permit;
 h) Recognizing the need to “balance” the role of the athletics program to serve both the institution
 (e.g., participants, student body, faculty-staff) and the general public (e.g., community, area,
 state);

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i) Offering an opportunity for participation in intercollegiate athletics by awarding athletically-
 related financial aid to its student-athletes;
 j) That institutional control is a fundamental principle that supports the educational mission
 of a Division II institution and assumes Presidential involvement and commitment. All funds
 supporting athletics should be controlled by the institution. The emphasis for an athletics
 department should be to operate within an institutionally-approved budget and compliance with
 and self-enforcement of NCAA regulations is an expectation of membership; and
 k) That all members of Division II should commit themselves to this philosophy and to the regulations
 and programs of Division II.

NCAA CORE VALUES AND STRATEGIC INITIATIVES
In June 2005, 150 Division II chancellors and Presidents initiated a comprehensive study of the division’s
defining characteristics and key attributes. The Presidents Council surveyed three groups: (1) Division II
campus and conference office personnel; (2) Division II student-athletes; and (3) the general public,
identified as college sports fans. They sought to define the core values of Division II and to explain why
schools choose to be Division II members. What resulted is the Division II strategic positioning platform.
The platform includes this statement that describes the Division II student-athlete experience:
Life in the Balance. Higher education has lasting importance on an individual’s future success. For this
reason, the emphasis for the student-athlete experience in Division II is a comprehensive program of
learning and development in a personal setting. The Division II approach provides growth opportunities
through academic achievement, learning in high-level athletics competition and development of positive
societal attitudes in service to community. The balance and integration of these different areas of learning
opportunity provide Division II student-athletes a path to graduation while cultivating a variety of skills
and knowledge for life ahead.
In addition, the platform emphasizes six key attributes that summarize the Division II student-athlete
experience:

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INTERCOLLEGIATE ATHLETICS
Edward Waters College offers men's intercollegiate athletic teams in basketball, baseball, football, track
and field and cross country. Women's intercollegiate sports include basketball, softball, track and field,
cross country, volleyball, soccer, and tennis.

THE POSITIVE GAME EXPERIENCE
Edward Waters Athletic events can be the “front porch” to our College for many community members, as
well as a great way to build school spirit among our students, faculty & staff. We want to provide every
spectator, every fan, every student, as well as every student-athlete with the most positive experience
possible. We pledge to:
 • Welcome fans with friendly, courteous staff.
 • Provide a lively and energetic atmosphere and encourage fan involvement.
 • Confront inappropriate and disruptive fan behavior.
 • Provide clean and comfortable facilities.
 • Provide convenient, affordable and properly prepared concession food.

FACULTY ATHLETICS REPRESENTATIVE (FAR)
The Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) for EWC is Mrs. Jacqueline Slater, a Professor in the General
Studies/Communications Department. The purpose of the FAR position is to promote a balance between
academics, athletics and the social lives of student-athletes and to be involved with the monitoring and
maintenance of the personal well-being of the student-athletes. The FAR ais available to help you should
you encounter issues with eligibility, waivers and appeals, health or relations with members of the faculty.
Mrs. Slater’s contact information is j.slater@ewc.edu or office 904-470-8824.

STUDENT-ATHLETE ADVISORY COMMITTEE (SAAC)

The mission of the EWC SAAC is to enhance the student-athlete experience by promoting opportunity,
protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image. To also solicit
student-athlete response to proposed NCAA legislation and recommend potential NCAA legislation. EWC
SAAC is the liaison between the student-athlete body and the athletics administration and have a voice
in the conference and national SAACs.

Members of EWC Student-Athlete Advisory Committee strive to:
 • Promote the support of fellow student-athletes in their pursuit of representing EWC, SIAC and
 NCAA Division II.
 • Emphasize academic and athletic excellence.
 • Serve as a liaison between student-athletes and administrators by promoting active
 communication.
 • Enhance a positive image for student-athletes at EWC and in the community through
 volunteering and community service.
 • Be actively involved in leadership opportunities that foster academic, athletic, professional and
 personal growth and development.
 • Build a sense of unity amongst student-athletes and the EWC student body as well as in
 surrounding communities.

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• Provide NCAA legislation information to all student athletes.
 • Encourage student-athlete involvement on campus and within the community.
 • Inform, promote and encourage positive sportsmanship and tiger pride.

Student-Athlete Advisory Committee Responsibilities
Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) members are involved in the process of reviewing and
responding to issues raised by other groups on campus, in addition to NCAA legislation. Members
participate in the Division II legislation process, the annual Division II Management Council summit and
serve on various Division II Association-Wide Committees. These student athletes support the campus
and conference community through outreach community outreach efforts all year long.

Community Service and Fundraising Efforts
EWC Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) and its members place a great importance and
emphasis on the community and helping others. EWC-SAAC has been involved with and continues to
work by hosting events to sponsor initiatives throughout the year. Future community services initiatives
will be planned and organized by the committee and the supervisor.

Operating Procedures:
 • Membership of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee shall consist of two student-athletes
 from each team.
 • Committee membership shall consist of two classes – Members and Executive Board Members.
 • Each team and/or coaching staff has the authority to select from among its eligible student-
 athletes the two representatives.
 • Members should be in good academic standing and able to participate in institution and
 community events.
 • Student-athlete representatives are required to attend all Student-athlete Advisory Committee
 meetings and actively participate and vote on current items or issues.

Executive Board Member Selection Process
All Executive Board Members shall be elected from the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee for a single
one-year term. More than one officer may be selected for each role if officers’ primary competition
seasons do not overlap.

Duties of The Officers Of The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Board
President
 • Shall preside over Student-Athlete Advisory Committee meetings and serve as the EWC
 representative to the SIAC SAAC. He or she must attend conference SAAC meetings whenever
 possible and represent the views of the EWC SAAC on all matters discussed.
 • Develops meeting agendas as well as appointing the chairs of committees. Additional items may
 be added to the agenda by board members, ex–officio members, or any representatives
 attending the meeting.
 • Willing to learn NCAA and SIAC legislation and proposals affecting student-athletes and to
 obtain feedback from teams prior to adoption of legislation. He or she will perform other duties
 as directed by the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Senior Staff.

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Vice President
 • Shall act in the absence of the President. Shall assist the President in the development of the
 agenda for each meeting and attend SIAC SAAC meetings whenever possible.

Secretary
 • Keep attendance records at Student-Athlete Advisory Committee meetings, keep a record of
 how many meetings representatives have attended and collect and maintain up-to-date
 member rosters and contact information.
 • Take notes at each meeting and distribute those notes via email to all members and advisors.
 • Send reminder texts and/or emails for SAAC meetings and other SAAC events.

Social Media Coordinator
 • Post content on all EWC social media platforms of volunteer work, attendance at games, events,
 etc.

Community Service Coordinator
 • Responsible for assisting the SAAC Advisor/SWA with EWC Athletics Fundraisers together.
 • Identify and plan community service events throughout the year.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND OUTREACH
EWC believes in the importance of community engagement and outreach for student-athletes. We will
participate in athletics-wide events as well as have individual team projects to support this belief. All
student-athletes and teams are expected to participate in these events and individual team events.
If you have an idea for a community engagement or outreach project you can communicate with your
SAAC representative or contact the SAAC liaison, Abiola Wilson-Brigmon, a.wilsonbrigmon@ewc.edu or
office 470-8276.

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STUDENT-ATHLETE CONDUCT

GAMBLING
The Athletic Department supports the NCAA’s position on gambling activities, which states as follows:
“The NCAA opposes all forms of legal and illegal sports wagering. Sports wagering has the potential to
undermine the integrity of sports contests and jeopardize the welfare of student-athletes and the
intercollegiate athletics community. Sports wagering demeans the competition and competitors alike by
a message that is contrary to the purposes and meaning of “sport.” Sports competition should be
appreciated for the inherent benefits related to participation of student-athletes, coaches and institutions
in fair contests, not the amount of money wagered on the outcome of the competition.”

According to NCAA Bylaw 10.3 on Gambling Activities…
“… student-athletes shall not knowingly:
 a. Provide information to individuals involved in organized gambling activities concerning
 intercollegiate competition
 b. Solicit a bet on any intercollegiate team
 c. Accept a bet on any team representing the institution
 d. Solicit or accept a bet on any intercollegiate competition for any item (i.e. cash, dinner, shirt) that
 has tangible value; or
 e. Participate on any gambling activity that involves intercollegiate athletics or professional athletics,
 through a bookmarker, a parlay card or any other method of employed or organized gambling.
 This includes fantasy sports and NCAA Tournament brackets.

Any student-athlete found to have engaged in gambling activities may also be subject to disciplinary
action.

AMATEUR STATUS
It is imperative that all student-athletes understand the guidelines (as follows) by which to maintain their
amateur status in order to ensure continued play at the national level of intercollegiate athletics:
 • Student-athlete has not received monetary or material gain for participation in their sport.
 • Student-athlete has not signed a contract with any professional team or entered into any kind of
 an agreement to compete in professional athletics.
 • Student-athlete has not participated in any athletic contest as a professional or as a member of a
 team where the student in question received remuneration exceeding the actual expenses of
 travel, meals and lodging.
 • Student-athlete has not received remuneration for use of name or picture to promote any product
 or enterprise.

STUDENT-ATHLETE/COACH CONFLICT
EWC Department of Athletics encourages all student-athlete/coach conflicts to be settled between the
parties involved. However, if conflict continues after reasonable attempts at resolution, then student-
athletes may contact the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics or our Senior Woman Administrator to seek
further assistance.

SEXUAL HARASSMENT/SEXUAL ASSAULT
Edward Waters is committed to maintaining an environment that is free from sexual harassment. In
keeping with this commitment, we do not tolerate sexual harassment by anyone, including students,

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faculty, staff or vendors of the College. The Office of Civil Rights of the U.S. Department of Education
defines sexual harassment under Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 as consisting of “verbal
or physical conduct of a sexual nature, imposed on the basis of sex, by an employee or agent of a recipient
that denies, limits, provides different, or conditions the provision of aid, benefits, services, or treatment
protected under Title IX.”

Sexual harassment consists of unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal,
physical, or visual conduct based on sex when:
 1. submission to such conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly as a term or condition of an
 individual’s employment or education;
 2. submission to or rejection of such conduct by an individual is used as the basis for academic or
 employment decisions affecting the individual; or
 3. such conduct has the purpose or effect of substantially interfering with an individual’s academic
 or professional performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive employment or
 educational environment.

Sexual harassment encompasses any sexual attention that is unwanted and can take many forms, but
most sexual harassment falls into three categories: verbal, visual, and physical.

Sexual harassment is especially serious when it threatens relationships between teacher and student, or
a supervisor and subordinate. In such situations, sexual harassment exploits unfairly the power inherent
in a faculty member’s or supervisor’s position. Through grades, wage increases, recommendations for
graduate study, promotion, and the like, a teacher or supervisor can have a decisive influence on a
student’s, staff member’s, or faculty member’s career at the University and beyond. While sexual
harassment most often takes place in situations involving a power differential between persons, EWC also
recognizes that sexual harassment may occur between persons of the same status within the College.
EWC will not tolerate behavior between or among members of the College community that creates an
unacceptable work or educational environment.

Any student who feels that he or she has experienced or witnessed harassment should, when possible,
inform the harasser that the conduct is unwelcome and must stop. If the student does not wish to confront
the harasser, or, if confrontation has not been effective, then the following courses of action should be
taken. If a student has experienced or witnessed sexual harassment in any College context, such as the
following examples,
 • as an employee of the College
 • from a student peer
 • from a faculty member
 • from a staff member
 • as a student volunteer or intern at an off-campus site
The student should report the incident to Dean Holsey. Dean Holsey is the Associate Vice President of
Student Success and Engagement/Dean of Students and her office number is 904-470-8371. Edward
Waters will investigate all such complaints thoroughly, impartially, and promptly. The College will keep all
complaints and the terms of their resolutions, as confidential as reasonably possible. If an investigation
confirms that harassment has occurred, the College will take corrective action, up to and including
expulsion or termination.

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HAZING/HARASSMENT
EWC interprets hazing as any act, whether physical, mental, emotional or psychological, that subjects
another person, voluntarily or involuntarily, to anything that may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate,
harass or intimidate the person. In addition, any requirements by a team member that compel another
team member to participate in any activity that is against college policy or state/federal law will be defined
as hazing.

Actions and activities that are prohibited include, but are not limited to, the following:
 • any type of initiation or other activity in which there is an expectation of individuals joining a
 particular team to participate in behavior designed to humiliate, degrade or abuse them,
 regardless of the person’s willingness to participate
 • forcing, requiring or pressuring an individual to consume alcohol or any other substance
 • forcing, requiring or pressuring an individual to shave any part of the body, including hair on the
 head
 • any requirement or pressure put on an individual to participate in any activity that is illegal,
 perverse, publicly indecent or contrary to genuine morals and/or beliefs (e.g., public profanity,
 indecent or lewd conduct or sexual gestures in public)
 • required eating of anything an individual would not eat otherwise
 • any activity or action that creates a perceived or actual risk to the health, safety or property of
 the College or any member of its community
 • forcing or requiring calisthenics, such as push-ups, sit-ups and runs
 • assigning or endorsing pranks, such as stealing or harassment of another organization
 • awakening or disturbing individuals during normal sleeping hours
 • expecting or pressuring individuals to participate in an activity in which the full membership is not
 willing to participate
 • physical abuse of any kind
 • forcing, encouraging or pressuring someone to wear in public apparel that is conspicuous and not
 within the norm of what is considered to be in good taste
 • engaging in public stunts and buffoonery
 • nudity at any time or forced reading of pornographic material
 • paddling, beating or otherwise permitting a member to hit other members having substances
 such as eggs, mud, paint and honey thrown at, poured on, or otherwise applied to the body of a
 member
 • morally degrading/humiliating games or other activities that make a member the object of
 amusement, ridicule or intimidation
 • subjecting a member to cruel and unusual psychological conditions
If a student-athlete has experienced or witnessed hazing in any institution context, the student-athlete
should report the incident to the Director of Academic Services/SWA, Director of Intercollegiate Athletics,
and/or the Associate Vice President of Student Success and Engagement/Dean of Students.

SOCIAL MEDIA POLICY
Nearly every student-athlete uses some type of social media application. These social networking sites
are useful and fun but can create opportunities for misuse and inappropriate communication. In an effort
to educate our student-athletes and in the interest of protecting your safety and the reputation of our
program and institution, EWC Athletics has adopted the following behavioral guidelines for our student-
athletes’ use of such social media sites.
 • No photos with alcohol, regardless of who is drinking.
 • No sexually suggestive photos.

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• No posting of obscene or sexually explicit quotes, or photos of profane gestures.
 • No posting of quotes that can be interpreted in a way that may damage the reputation of a
 student-athlete, team, coaches, or the College.
 • No use of profanity or other language which is derogatory or disrespectful to any individual or
 group.
 • No photos, comments, “tweets” or posts regarding a prospective student-athlete (recruit). This is
 an NCAA violation.

Student-athletes represent more than just themselves. Student-athletes represent family, the team and
coach, Edward Waters Athletics, and Edward Waters College. The internet is a public domain; therefore,
anything posted to social media is available for the public to see. Future employers may access this
information as well as stalkers, identity thieves, and other malicious individuals.

Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action at the discretion of your coach, the Director of
Intercollegiate Athletics or College administration.

COLLEGE CITIZENSHIP
All student-athletes are expected to maintain high standards of moral conduct and concern for the well-
being and rights of fellow students. Disciplinary action is a consequence of violation of EWC regulations;
however, EWC may initiate disciplinary action for misconduct which arises off-campus when the student
is in violation of federal, state, or local laws and which materially and adversely affects others. Penalties
for violations of EWC standards of behavior include, but are not limited to, the withholding or denial of
academic credit or degrees or other benefits or rights provided by the College.
Student-athletes are expected at all times to adhere to standards of public and private behavior consistent
with the philosophy and purposes of EWC and with state and local laws. Failure to behave in an
appropriate manner or the flaunting of EWC rules and regulations can result in the loss of "good standing"
and athletic eligibility.
Penalties for Violation of EWC Regulations may include the following:
 a) Disciplinary Reprimand: An official statement to the student-athlete advising him/her that
 a violation has occurred.
 b) Disciplinary Probation: This condition may affect the student-athlete’s good standing at
 EWC for a stated period of time. Penalties can include loss of athletic scholarship and loss
 of athletic eligibility.
 c) Disciplinary Suspension: For a fixed period of time the student-athlete is declared not "in
 good standing" and may not participate in any academic or other activity, including
 intercollegiate athletics. A student-athlete who has been suspended for disciplinary
 reasons must petition for readmission at the conclusion of the period of suspension.
 d) Disciplinary Dismissal: The student-athlete is denied the right to participate in any
 academic or other activity at EWC for an unspecified period of time. Only under the most
 unusual circumstances will a dismissed student be readmitted to EWC.

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STUDENT-ATHLETE WELL-BEING

STUDENT-ATHLETE SURVEY
At the end of each Spring semester all student athletes are surveyed via athletics compliance software
concerning their experience as a student-athlete. Student-athletes who are leaving the institution and/or
have completed their eligibility are surveyed as well. If an issue arises from the information gathered by
the surveys, the Director of Intercollegiate Athletics, Director of Academic Services/SWA, Faculty Athletics
Representative and appropriate Head Coach will meet and address the issue or issues.

ATHLETIC ADMINISTRATION AVAILABILITY
In all meetings and other forms of communication, the athletic administration communicates the
importance of availability and an “open door policy” of all athletic administrators. We encourage all
student-athletes to come by to visit about anything that is on their minds. The athletic administrative staff
is also encouraged to attend practices and other events where student-athletes would have the
opportunity to interact with the staff.

TOBACCO
The Edward Waters College Athletic department strongly discourages the use of tobacco products of all
types among its student-athletes. The use of tobacco is proven to be a health hazard and is contra-
indicated for athletic performance. In addition, Edward Waters College is a Tobacco Free Campus. In
keeping with our core value of making our environment safer for everyone, EWC prohibits the use of any
tobacco product whether in the form of cigarettes, cigars, pipes, dipping/snuff, smokeless cigarettes or
chewing tobacco. It is the policy of EWC that tobacco products are not allowed anywhere on EWC owned
or leased property (including buildings, parking lots, personal vehicles, etc.) Additionally, tobacco products
are prohibited in all EWC vehicles. Any student needing assistance quitting smoking may seek personal
consultation services through the Student Health Services office.

ALCOHOL
An individual must be at least 21 years of age to purchase, possess or consume alcohol. The use and/or
possession of alcohol on EWC property are prohibited. Student-athletes are responsible for knowing and
complying with the guidelines for the proper use and or possession of alcohol on campus and in the
residence halls.

The Edward Waters Athletics Department reminds all student-athletes that they are responsible for their
behavior both on and off campus. Poor choices involving the consumption of alcohol can lead to poor
personal behavior and reflect negatively on the athletics program and Edward Waters College. Edward
Waters Athletics provides alcohol education and other “Life Skills” programming to help student-athletes
make better individual choices regarding the use of alcohol. Student-athletes who violate campus alcohol
policies or state laws will be subject to the campus judicial process as well as Athletic sanctions.

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ACADEMICS

MISSED CLASS TIME POLICY
EWC student-athletes are responsible to make arrangements with their professors prior to travel and
missed class times to make up work and exams. Student-athletes should not miss any classes outside of
those missed for competition. Under NCAA legislation you MAY NOT miss a class for any practice during
the year.

At the beginning of each week, student-athletes should provide each professor with an Official Missed
Class Excuse Letter. The letter is obtained from the Director of Academic Services/SWA. The letter is
to be hand-delivered by the student-athlete prior to leaving campus. It is the student-athlete’s
responsibility to reschedule any tests and/or assignments missed PRIOR to travel. In addition, an
electronic copy of the Official Missed Class Excuse Letter will be sent to the FAR, Provost and Chair of the
Department by the Director of Academic Services/SWA.

 ATHLETIC ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY RULES
All intercollegiate varsity teams are committed to following all eligibility rules as prescribed for NCAA
events. The NCAA constitution states that to be eligible a student-athlete “must be in good academic
standing” and “must maintain satisfactory progress toward a baccalaureate degree as prescribed by the
regulations of the NCAA and the member institution.”

FULL-TIME ENROLLMENT
Edward Waters College defines full-time enrollment as registration in 12 credit hours for undergraduate
and 9 hours for graduate students. The NCAA requires student-athletes to be enrolled full-time to
participate in intercollegiate athletics. If you drop below full-time status during the semester you are
immediately ineligible for practice and competition.

All students who are withdrawn through the "Roll Verification process" are responsible for all applicable
fees and may be declared immediately ineligible for practice and competition if below full-time. The
student-athlete remains ineligible until they are reinstated accordingly, and their full-time status is
restored.

The student must be identified by the college and enrolled in a minimum of 12 approved institutional
credit hours at the time of participation or if the participation takes place between terms, the student
must have been identified with the institution the term immediately before the date of participation. All
students representing EWC in intercollegiate athletics must be full-time students at EWC. They must be
enrolled in at least 12 hours through EWC. Hours enrolled in at other institutions must be approved by
the Faculty Athletics Representative in order to be counted for purpose of eligibility.
EXCEPTION to the 12 credit hour enrollment rule:
A student who will complete requirements for graduation within 10 semesters or less may retain eligibility
during the last term of the senior year by enrolling in fewer than 12 institutional credit hours. Official
verification must be provided by the registrar that the student has completed all other academic
requirements for graduation except for the currently enrolled credits. It is understood as a condition of
the use of this exception to the 12 hour enrollment rule that the intercollegiate eligibility of the student

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using the exception shall be terminated automatically at the end of the term in which less than 12 credits
are carried.

HOLDS
Holds prohibit you from registering for classes. Unpaid fines, student fees, and insurance are several
reasons you would not be able to participate in registration. It is the student-athlete’s responsibility to
take care of all holds prior to registration. As a student-athlete, an athletic hold will always be on your
account. This is to identify to various campus groups that you are a student-athlete. Your athletics hold
will be released for priority registration only. Any changes to your schedule after priority registration will
have to be made through the Director of Academic Services/SWA (see below for the procedure).

ADD/DROP/WITHDRAWAL
Student-athletes must consult with and receive written approval from the Director of Academic
Services/SWA prior to adding or dropping any class. Edward Waters College will prohibit a student-athlete
from dropping a course without a signature from the Director of Academic Services/SWA. Students can
add courses "through the fifth calendar day from the beginning of classes". In some cases, permission
from the department head or the instructor may be necessary to add a course after classes have started.
Students can withdraw from a course prior to the drop deadline. After the drop deadline, a student must
make a withdrawal request through the Dean of their college based on extenuating circumstances that
have adversely affected their ability to perform in their classes. Examples of extenuating circumstances
are documented injury, illness, a change in a student’s work schedule, and/or personal or family problems.

But under no circumstances can a student-athlete drop a course without obtaining written permission
from the Director of Academic Services/SWA.

DROPPING A CLASS
Student-athletes are not able to drop a course once classes have begun. You must have written
permission from the Director of Academic Services/SWA in order to drop a class. Your advisor, coach,
and the Director of Academic Services/SWA must all agree that it is in your best interest for a
withdrawal to be granted. Your decision to cease attending any class will not automatically ensure
approval for a withdrawal.

Please remember: A withdrawal is approved only in extreme cases and can affect eligibility and
Exhausted Eligibility Aid.

NCAA FRESHMAN ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
Initial Eligibility:
As a student-athlete who enrolls in a Division II institution as an entering freshman with no previous
fulltime college attendance, you must meet the academic requirements as certified by the NCAA Eligibility
Center. Upon certification, you will be deemed a qualifier, partial qualifier or a non-qualifier.
A qualifier is a student who has met all of the following requirements (See Bylaw 14.2)
 • Graduate from high school;
 • Successful completion of a required core curriculum consisting of a minimum number of courses
 in specified subjects.
 • Specified minimum grade-point average in the core curriculum (2.2)
 • A sliding scale will be used based on Core GPA and ACT/SAT scores

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As a qualifier, you are permitted to receive financial aid based on athletic ability, practice and compete
during your first academic year in residence.
A partial qualifier is a student who does not meet the requirements for a qualifier but who, at the time
of graduation from high school, presents one of the following academic requirements [Bylaw 14.3.2.1]:
 • Presents a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.200 in a successfully completed core curriculum
 requirement; or
 • A sliding Scale will be used based on Core GPA and ACT/SAT scores

As a partial qualifier, you are permitted to receive financial aid based on athletic ability and practice but
cannot compete during your first academic year in residence.

A non-qualifier is a student who has not graduated from high school or presented neither the core-
curriculum grade-point average and required SAT/ACT score. As a non-qualifier, you are not eligible to
receive financial aid based upon athletic ability, compete nor practice during your first year in residence.
However, you are eligible to receive financial aid not based on athletic ability.

 PROGRESS TOWARD DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

To be eligible to represent an institution in intercollegiate athletic competition, you must maintain
progress toward a baccalaureate or equivalent degree at EWC in accordance with NCAA Division II
progress toward degree requirements as determined by the Registrar’s office.

The following chart provides a summary of the Division II Progress-Toward-Degree requirements:
 Entering 2nd Year Entering 3rd Year Entering 4th Year Entering 5th Year
 of Collegiate Enrollment of Collegiate Enrollment of Collegiate Enrollment of Collegiate Enrollment
 (Sophomore) (Junior) (Senior) (Senior)
 Pass 9 credits per full Pass 9 credits per full Pass 9 credits per full Pass 9 credits per full
 time term. time term. time term. time term.
 Complete 24 credits Complete 24 credits Complete 24 credits Complete 24 credits
 per year (including per year toward your per year toward your per year toward your
 summer) 18 hours designated degree designated degree designated degree
 earned must be 18 hours earned must 18 of hours earned 18 of hours earned
 completed in the be completed in the must be completed in must be completed in
 regular academic term. regular academic term. the regular academic the regular academic
 6 hours may be earned 6 hours may be earned term. 6 hours may be term. 6 hours may be
 during the summer during the summer earned during the earned during the
 credits with a 2.0 GPA with a 2.0 GPA overall. summer with a 2.0 GPA summer with a
 overall. Declare a major no every semester and 2.0 GPA overall.
 later than the overall.
 beginning of 5th
 semester of full-time
 enrollment.

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