Python Track Team Guidelines

Athletic Code Link

Practice is from 3:45-5:15 everyday unless otherwise noted.  Participants need to be dressed and in the gym for attendance by 4:00p.m. or they are considered late to practice. Rides need to have you picked up no later than 5:30.  We do not practice on Saturdays.

Athletic Participation Paperwork Each athlete must have the following forms turned into the guidance office prior to practicing.  These forms only have to be completed once a year. 1. Current Sports Physical 2. Copy of Certified Birth Certificate 3. Athletic Permission/Record Form (available in main office) Coaches will not be collecting these forms.  Any student interested in track should report to the guidance office to receive an orange athletic clearance slip.  The orange slip, which indicates all paperwork has been properly submitted to the guidance office, must be handed to the coach before a student may practice.

Basic Information and Guidelines 1. Track does not "cut" athletes.  You will be a member of the team as long as you so choose and as long as you follow team guidelines. 2. If you are going to miss a practice or meet, you must hand your coach a written note.  Two unexcused absences will result in dismissal from the team. 3. You are expected to be dressed and ready to go at the start of practice.  Any unexcused delay will be considered tardy.  Excessive tardies will result in dismissal from the team. 4. You are expected to be responsible for your ride home.  Practice ends at 5:15 each night.  Your ride should be here no later than 5:30.  Excessive late pickups will result in dismissal from the team. 5. Remain focused at all times during practice.  Any "horsing around" will lead to a warning and additional work.  Excessive "horsing around" will result in dismissal from the team. 6. You should follow directions given to you by any of the coaches at all times.  We want you to perform well as athletes and have a safe, fun year.  Your cooperation is critical. 7. We will get weekly updates on your grades and attitude from your teachers.  You must be passing all of your classes to be eligible to participate.  Excessive grade problems will result in dismissal from the team. 8.  Only track athletes should attend practices.  If the track athlete visits with the non-track athlete during practice times, both will be asked to leave and the track athlete will be assigned an unexcused absence.

Preparation 1. Hard work and dedication - an athlete that consistently works hard can defeat someone with more natural ability. 2. Attitude - a proper mental state will enhance your physical condition and ability. 3. Water - your body needs to be well hydrated throughout the season, especially meet days. 4. Diet - balance and moderation.  Fuel yourself with healthy foods rich in vitamins and energy.

Meet Information 1. Participation in meets will be based on participation in practice.  Unexcused absences and tardiness will result in missing opportunities to participate in events. 2. Some meets restrict the number of entries.  We will try to take as many athletes as possible to these meets.  However, some people may have to stay home.  Everyone will compete at our home meet assuming they are in good standing with the team. 3. All athletes are required to ride the bus with the team.  Transportation is provided back to Parkside for all out of town meets.   Athletes must be picked up at the location of meets that are within Bloomington-Normal.

Ahtletic Fee Unit 5 has instituted athletic fees to help cover the cost of its athletic programs. Please make checks payable to PJHS.  Here is the breakdown for these fees. 1st Sport - $75 1st Sport and reduced lunch - $37.50 2nd Sport - $50 2nd/3rd Sport and reduced lunch - $25 3rd Sport - $50 Free lunch - $0

Clothing and Weather We practice outside, so you need to dress appropriately.  Make sure that you have sufficient clothing.  Bring sweats!  We practice on some really cold days, so be prepared.  You will not be allowed to practice if your coaches feel that you do not have adequate clothing.  It is your responsibility to come prepared.