Board approves training rules
by PATRICK J. NAGY Reporter

The Amherst Central Board of Education, at the Aug. 8 meeting, approved new training rules that allow student-athletes an appeal process if caught with an illegal substance.

Amherst Central Athletics Director Nancy Riccio said the updated training rules suspend a student-athlete 25 percent of the sports season for a first offense. The charge can be reduced to two weeks if the student-athlete attends an educational program and apologizes before the coach and team. The student-athlete must also re-sign the training rules.

A second offense is a one-year suspension. A third offense is a lifetime ban. The previous training rules suspended a student athlete one year for a first offense.

"What we're trying to do is get kids to take ownership and responsibility for what they're doing," said Riccio. "To me, it's educational, corrective, and gives a chance for them to restore themselves."

Riccio also said any student athlete who tries out for a high school sport must sign the training rules. Previous student-athletes signed the training rules when final rosters were chosen. Student-athletes will also complete a sign-out sheet when they turn in uniforms at the end of each sports season.

Also new to the training rules is a hazing piece, including its definition and that it will not be tolerated by the district, Riccio said. A loitering piece was suggested but not included.

Riccio said a committee of herself, two parents and three coaches have been meeting once a month since last September updating the training rules. The committee also met with all fall sports captains and co-captains for further input.

Riccio said a meeting was held Monday night in the Amherst High auditorium where football players signed the new training rules. All other fall sport student-athletes will sign the new training rules Monday, Aug. 21, also in the auditorium. Parents of players also attend.

Riccio and board members are pleased with the new rules.

"I'm happy with it," said Riccio. "Kids are going to make mistakes. Now what are they going to do about it? That's what I want to know."

"The 25 percent (for first offense) seems reasonable," said board member David Dengler.

Deputy Superintendent Paul Wietig wants Riccio to take a look at how the policies are applied and receive feedback from the recent fall sports meetings between players, parents and coaches.

The next School Board meeting will be held at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 22 at the district office in the rear of Amherst Middle School. Prekindergarten will be discussed.