Coaches Handbook

2015-2016

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 LCS Coaching Handbook

Vision
Lincoln Christian Athletics exists to prepare and equip young men and
women to engage the world and impact it for Jesus Christ.

Athletics Purpose Statement

Westminster Athletics is here to equip more men and women to engage the
world and change it for Jesus Christ by developing teams which pursue
excellence in the areas of Christian character, work habits, academics and
strengthening of the athletes faith in Jesus Christ. Westminster has 10 non-
negotiable expectations that are listed below:

10 Pillars of Lincoln Christian Athletics

*These ten pillars are non-negotiable expectations within all athletic
programs at Lincoln Christian.

1. Honor Jesus Christ in all things . . . the most important measure of our
success. (1 Timothy 1:16-17)

2. Christian character defines who we are . . . God-honoring behavior, good

sportsmanship, and avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are required. (1
Corinthians 6:19-20)

3. Good grades and conduct lead the way . . . successful athletes must be
successful students. (Deuteronomy 6:4-5)

4. We before me... what is best for the team always comes first. (1
Corinthians 12:18)

5. We will run the race to win . . . competing at the highest possible level is
the goal. (1 Corinthians 9:24-25)

6. We are in this together . . . student athletes, coaches, and parents are all
on the same page. (1 Corinthians 12:12, 27)

7. Commitments are paramount . . . showing up and honoring your word is

the norm. (Romans 12:1)

8. We will grow and improve in and out of season . . . getting better

demands hard work. (Philippians 2:12-13)

9. Supporting other players and teams is expected . . . we all share LC pride.

(1 Corinthians 12:25-27)

10. Positive attitudes will influence outcomes . . . passion, enthusiasm, and

energy will drive us. (Philippians 4:4,8)

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Philosophy of Athletics

The Athletic programs at Lincoln Christian exist to support the mission of the
school; to challenge and encourage each student athletes spiritual growth,
by teaching and modeling genuine Christian character.

Athletics provide an arena for Christian growth that is unique to the rest of
the school environment. Through these experiences comes the learning and
developing of fundamental principles of the Christian faith: humility,
selflessness, love, unity, self-discipline, courage, perseverance, hard work
and sacrifice. The objective of our program is to succeed; the primary goal of
our program is to strengthen each student athletes relationship with Christ
and to glorify God.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not
for men. Colossians 3:23

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 Lincoln Christian: Coaching to Excellence

In the pages to come the Lincoln Christian Athletic Department has

established expectations, guidelines, and best practices in order to assist our
coaches (and, as a result, student athletes) in demonstrating a Christ-
centered pursuit of excellence in everything we do. As we seek to provide
world-class programs and opportunities in athletics, we plan to train and
equip our coaches as they lead their respective teams in a transformational
coaching style.

Expectations

Defining Success

Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in

knowing you did your best to become the best that you are capable of
becoming. -John Wooden

We define success by our pursuit of excellence. As Wooden says so well, we

aspire to see all our athletes become the best they can be. Coaches have a
unique platform to assist our athletes in understanding what excellence and
success looks like, both on and off the field.

Excellence is about more than just winning games. We all know teams can
win against less talented teams without giving their best effort. Likewise, a
team can play to the best of their abilities but still end up with a loss when
competing against a superior opponent. Working to the best of our abilities
every day will result in an excellent work ethic, which we trust will eventually
be evident on a scoreboard. But at LCS we believe we are competing for
more than just wins and losses.

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not
for man, since you know you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a
reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.
Colossians 3:23-24

As Paul reminds us in the book of Colossians, we are each called to work

with all our heart in everything that we do. Simply put, to success means
to honor and glorify God in all that we do (Pillar 1). We are called to do the
best we can with the gifts and abilities He has given us as an offering back to
Him. As coaches, we have the platform to help our student athletes
understand what it means to not only compete for the glory of God, but to do
so to the best of our abilities each and every day, and with a worshipful
heart.

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Many of our athletic programs have already seen great success in this sort of
pursuit of excellence within their teams. In addition to having kids
understand the opportunity to honor Christ through their work ethic and
athletic gifting on the field or court daily, we are seeing performance
improve. More importantly, our athletes are seeing a higher purpose in their
athletic endeavors, and coaches are opening the door for athletes to escape
the pressures of the performance-based culture so prevalent in athletics
today.

In the LC athletic department, we define success as the Christ-honoring

pursuit of excellence. We believe winning games will be an outcome of
pursuing excellence, but our focus is to be excellent in everything we do. In
our efforts to honor God with all that we do, we hope to sharpen one another
and serve as an example to our teammates, coaches, fans, opponents, and
officials, regardless of the score in competition or daily practices. We aspire
to see our athletes develop athletically and spiritually to become the best
they can be and reach their maximum potential. We want our athletes to
understand that their success transcends the scoreboard and encourage
them to find a higher purpose on the field/court as they worship the Lord
through the gifts He has blessed them with.

Modeling

A coach will impact more people in one year than most will in a lifetime.
-Billy Graham

As a coach, you have been entrusted with the great position of influence in
our student athletes lives. The following are a few specific points of
emphasis we would urge you to keep in mind as you lead your teams.

Model a transformational coaching style (not transactional): Do your

best to show athletes that their value is not based on their
performance or contribution to the team
Commit to a servant leadership approach with your athletes and
coaching staff, seeking to serve their needs, not your own.
Create a safe environment where all athletes feel welcomed into the
community and valued as an integral part of the team.
Seek to have athletes develop character traits that will serve them
both on and off the field.
Lead by example: Do your best to serve as a role model at all times.
This is THE most important part of coaching. Kids will not rise to a
standard higher than that which they see modeled for them. Attempt
to model good sportsmanship, servant leadership, accountability,
faithfulness, communication, listening, discipline, and respect,
particularly when you make mistakes.

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 Commit to regular prayer for your athletes and coaching staff
Consider having team devotions led by your coaching staff or student
athletes
Communication: Commit to regular communication (as outlined below)
and be sensitive to the non-verbal messages you send.
Empower your athletes to use their God-given abilities and influence to
glorify the Lord, not themselves
Remember that the most devastating loss on the season would
be kids leaving our program without knowing Christ.

To summarize:
Your primary coaching responsibility is to model Christ-like leadership
and service as we shepherd, train, and equip our student athletes to
grow as athletes, teammates, students, and believers.

Communication

As coaches, being an excellent communicator is critical. Below are some

expectations and guidelines when it comes to communicating with the
athletic department, parents, officials, etc. We are asking for consistent and
ongoing communication throughout the season.

Athletic Department:
Head coaches will have pre-season and post-season meetings to
evaluate the program as a whole.
JV, Reserve, and MS coaches will also meet with ADs pre-, and post-
season. Assistant coaches will meet over the course of the season if
needed.
Be proactive in making ADs aware of any potential conflicts or issues
that may arise within the team (including serious injuries or
sportsmanship issues), parents, officials, or opponents
Have all team apparel designs pre-approved by ADs in advance
Ensure any music for pre-game warm-ups or walk up music is pre-
approved by the athletic department. Please give us at least 48 hours
to review the list. Please do us a favor and share this information with
your athletes prior to them submitting playlists for approval.
Instrumental versions or censored versions of songs are still
inappropriate and will not be approved.
Include both Ads (Matt & Peter) on any emails to parents/athletes
Scores for all contests need to be emailed to Vikki by 9am the day after
a contest
Please establish your team parent and let ADs know who will be
serving in this capacity for the team. (This does not apply to Junior
High teams)

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 Set dates for senior and parent recognition night and end of season
team banquets as soon as possible and notify Vikki of dates.
Following the first week of practice, please send relevant roster
information onto Vikki within one week.
Please be diligent to submit a season review to the yearbook editor,
Gretchen Monroe (gmonroe@lcs.k12.ne.us) within two weeks of the
end of the season.
In general, please reply to emails from the athletic department and
parents within 24 hours.
Please notify ADs (Matt and Peter) of any social media accounts that
represent school activities, and submit them for approval.

Parents:
Facilitate a Parent Informational Meeting in which you gather parent
contact information (phone numbers and email addresses), provide the
season schedule, share your Team Plan (see page # ) with
information, coaching philosophy, etc.
Draft initial introductory email to parents and send to Matt/ for
approval in advance
Share your Team Plan with parents at the meeting after having it
reviewed by Matt/Peter
Use lincolnchristianathletics.org as your main tool for communicating
with parents.
Post weekly to lincolnchristianathletics.org outlining the schedule,
highlights, and points of emphasis for the week (examples of
successful intro/weekly emails enclosed)
Educate the parents to use lincolnchristianathletics.org to receive the
email/text alerts that you send out.
Communicate to parents and athletes that all team apparel designs
must be pre-approved by the Athletic Department
Establish a team parent and utilize them for help in coordinating senior
recognition night and an end of season team celebration.

Officials:
If any issues or major disputes arise with officials, please be sure to
proactively inform Matt or Peter so we are aware of the situation as
soon as possible.
Consider your audience when on the sideline. Officials make mistakes
but generally are doing the best that they can. Wherever possible,
make sure all communication with officials is done in a respectful,
Christ-honoring manner. These are great teaching moments for our
athletes to watch your example and demonstrated composure in the
midst of challenging or frustrating circumstances.

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Prep Sports:
Please be sure to keep your Varsity stats up to date online via the Big
Teams website found on the Lincoln Christian Athletics website.
Report scores to appropriate media outlets (i.e. Lincoln Journal Star,
Max Prep) and email Vikki with results and scores by 9 a.m. the next
day.

Social Media:
Please be intentional and conscientious of your audience and what you
tweet, re-tweet, favorite, post or share, remembering that you are
representing LC and Jesus Christ.
Never tweet, post, or share any comments concerning athletes, their
effort, character, etc. on social media.
Feel free to tweet, post, or share positive encouragement, but be
careful of singling out athletes.
Educate athletes to adhere to these same guidelines.

Team Plans

As a program, we ask that the head coaches create an annual Team Plan to
be shared with parents at the start of your season in your parent meeting.
We ask that you include your coaching purpose statement, athlete
expectations, team rules, team goals, and a character and spiritual growth
plan for your athletes. The athletic department will provide you with a
framework to build off of for some general continuity of the team plans,
including eligibility specifics (listed below), the Ten Pillars, our athletic
department philosophy, parent expectations, and what we believe parents
and athletes should reasonably expect of our coaches. Please be sure to
submit your draft to the athletic department for review prior to presenting it
to your athletes and parents. We have included several examples in your
binder for you to review and gain insight.

We ask that head coaches adapt their team plan to be shared with the
middle school coaches and parents at the middle school parent meeting.
Minor edits would allow for this document to be beneficial to middle school
parents and student athletes to understand the program as a whole and
clarify expectations for middle school athletes.

Parent Meeting

Each season we ask that coaches hold a parent meeting. Ideally, this would
occur before or after the AD parent-athlete meeting that is held each season.

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If parents have already heard the AD parent-athlete meeting for a previous
athletic season this school year, they should still be encouraged to only
attend the sport specific meeting with coaches (but may skip the AD
meeting).

This parent meeting is an exceptional opportunity to share your team plan,

clearly communicate player expectations, and impart your vision for your
program. Not only will this important meeting get everyone on the same
page, it is your chance to share your heart for coaching and give parents
another reason to support you this season. Remember, you can only make a
first impression once. Please be prepared, make efficient use of your time,
and highlight the following points:

Introduce yourself and your coaching staff.

Share your coaching purpose statement and what you love about
coaching.
Review major points in your Team Plan (specifically player
expectations, any necessary equipment, playing costs/fees, and
playing time by level)
Highlight major dates (senior night, travel dates, tournaments, etc.)
Gather parent email addresses for weekly email updates
Secure a team parent

Athletic Trainer (ATC) and Injury Protocols

Obviously the safety of our athletes is a top priority. In spite of our best
efforts, injuries will happen. As a result, we require all coaches to maintain
their First Aid and CPR/AED certifications. Our trainer, Hillary Orf
(horf@wcastl.org; 636.751.8793), is at the school daily from 1pm until the
last competition on campus ends. Below are important details outlining our
injury protocol and expectations for coaches to help keep our athletes safe.

Send your athlete to Hillary in case of any injury. Use common sense
send a fellow coach or athlete to escort him/her or call for Hillary to
come to you if the athlete shouldnt be moved or cant move
comfortably.
Follow up with Hillary in the days following any injuries to ensure you
are up to date on your athletes status.
Notify Hillary of any injuries that may occur off campus (away contests)
or if you are aware of your athletes heading to a physician for
evaluation or treatment of any kind.

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 Ensure your athletes always return with a doctors note outlining any
playing restrictions, medical needs, or informing us of their medical
release.
You will receive your own medical kit for the season. Please return it
promptly at seasons end. Hillary will replace items as needed
throughout the season if you express a need.
Remember to always carry your medical forms for your athletes for all
away contests or practices off site.
Please be diligent to schedule the pre-season concussion baseline
ImPACT testing with Hillary (specifically football, volleyball, tennis,
basketball, wrestling, cheerleading, track, cross country, and golf
teams)
Following a concussion, the return to play protocol cannot begin until
the athlete is symptom-free. If a baseline test was taken, the athlete
will be retested. Assuming he/she passes, he/she may begin his/her
return to play protocol and will return to full play once remaining
symptom-free throughout the protocol.

Hiring Procedures and Financial/Transportation/Team Apparel

Guidelines

Hiring Procedures:
Only the athletic directors can make job offers to coaching candidates.
Head coaches are encouraged to participate in the hiring process
under the direction of the athletic directors.
Coaches may have individual meetings to screen candidates prior to
the formal interview process as directed by athletic directors, but
coaches may NOT offer any positions to join their coaching staff.
All non-faculty coaching applicants must complete the online volunteer
application available under documents on the resources page of the
LC website: http://lincolnchristian.org/documents/
o All assistant coaches regardless of pay must have Level 3
clearance, as they will have unsupervised time with athletes.
o Assistant coaches will also need to provide their drivers license
to the office staff if they will be driving a school van.

Financial Guidelines:
Have all payments for team fees, trips, uniforms, optional team
apparel, etc., made payable to LCS. AT NO TIME SHOULD
PAYMENTS BE MADE TO COACHES DIRECTLY. Try to avoid having
parents/students collecting the money and making purchases for team
apparel wherever possible.
Please collect all money then bring to Vikki Power in the athletic
department so that a deposit can be made into your sports account.
(If you are a coach not on staff in the building, please have assistant

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 coaches on staff collect these funds on your behalf throughout the day.
Please do not send individual players to Vikki with money directly if at
all possible. Similarly, if you do not have a coach who is also a staff
member in the building please personally collect the payments and
personally give them to Vikki.)
We strongly suggest waiting to place any orders until all money has
been collected. This practice ensures everyone pays in a timely
manner and avoids unpaid for gear.
Tax-exempt letters are available in the athletic office.

Transportation Guidelines:
Coaches should communicate regularly with athletic department and
Vikki Power (vikki.power@lincolnchristian.org) for all van and bus
transportation needs.
If bus service is provided, please confirm in advance whether the bus
and driver need to stay at your competition to bring athletes back to
LC after the contest or if it should be a drop off only.
At least one coach must follow the bus by car if no coach elects to ride
the bus with the team. Ride the bus
At no time should coaches direct athletes to ride in particular vehicles
with certain athletes. Parents can direct their children to ride with
specific athletes at their own discretion.
When traveling out of town, please contact the athletic department for
a team travel waiver form for all athletes and parents to complete.
Filled out prior to season?

(Optional) Team Apparel Guidelines:

Teams will frequently offer optional team apparel for athletes to
purchase. Please note that these must remain completely OPTIONAL
and be reasonable in cost.
All designs and logos for this apparel must be approved by the athletic
office in advance prior to placing any orders.
Please remember to keep the school colors a primary part of the
design.
Follow the financial guidelines outlined above when collecting all
money associated with these orders.
Be aware that booster gear is also available for athletes should they
chose that option.

Best Practices

As already outlined, serving as a coach at Lincoln Christian School puts you

in the influential position to represent Christ both on and off the field. In our

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efforts to be excellent in all that we do, please keep the following in mind as
your lead your team.

Always be organized and attempt to make the most out of your

practice time daily.
Have alternate indoor/shared space plans in case of inclement weather.
Be sure to have communication lines in place to inform your athletes
and parents of last minute changes to the schedule with times or
locations
Dress appropriately for all practices and contests. While coaching
attire can vary by sport, please remember that LC apparel should be
worn where appropriate. If wearing shorts, please make sure they are
more professional in appearance (khaki or golf shorts). Flip flops,
yoga (tight fitting) pants, jeans, etc. are inappropriate.
Be conscientious of social media and the image you are presenting.
Please remember you represent LC even when not on campus.
Never invite or allow individuals to work with your teams without prior
approval from the athletic department and having completed the
volunteer forms provided on the Lincoln Christian website under
resources.
Treat all opponents as guests on campus. Ensure their needs are taken
care of before your own.
Make it a priority to establish a good rapport with opposing coaches
and officials/referees.
Please be prompt and end practices on time.
Remember that kids need to enjoy themselves. Try to keep this in
mind even while competing or practicing at a high level.
Ensure you, your coaching staff, and your athletes are modeling good
sportsmanship in both wins and losses.

In short: remember that when we represent Lincoln Christian School, we are

attempting to represent Christ. In our efforts to model Godly lives, we hope
to inspire others like our athletes, opponents, fans, and officials to do the
same.

Head Coaches: We encourage our head coaches to view themselves not only
as the Varsity coach but also as the head of the entire sport program they
lead. Coaches from all levels (7-12) should be considered integral to the
programs success. Head coaches are encouraged to meet with and support
their lower level coaches in hopes of developing the overall program. Taking
initiative to occasionally assist with a practice, attend lower level team
games, and establishing continuity in coaching strategies and styles within
their program are critical aspects of serving as a head coach for a program.

Professional Development, Training, and Evaluation

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Coaching Certification and Testing:
Please be diligent to complete the mandatory testing procedures
necessary for coaching certification in a timely manner
Every year: Coaches must complete the concussion test
(nfhslearn.org) and online rules review test (mshsaa.org) for their
respective sports. Please notify Laura when these are completed for
our records.
Every two years: Coaches must get recertified in First Aid/CPR/AED
Training. We will provide dates for coaches to do this together a few
times each year.
If not a certified teacher or full time WCA faculty member, every coach
must complete the Fundamentals of Coaching course and By-Laws
Test (one time only)

3D Plus Coaching Model:

FCA has adopted the 3Dimensional Plus coaching model as a reference for
coaches to identify their coaching style (or philosophy) as related to biblical
principles and underscored by current research. The teaching modules allow
coaches to witness a transformational coaching style that develops a higher
producing athlete through the transformed life of a coach. --Costs $450 per
coach

Every WCA coach is expected to complete the 3D Plus Coaching

training available online by August 1, 2016.
Instructions on how to access your course code will be emailed to you.
Following completion of each phase of the training (101, 201, 301,
etc.), the coach will meet with Lindsay to discuss the completed
material.
Each coach should email Lindsay to set up that follow-up meeting as
soon as completing each phase (before beginning the next phase of
the program).
Contact Lindsay with any questions.

Coaching Purpose Statement:

Every coach is expected to develop his or her own individual coaching
purpose statement with an eternal perspective (part of the 3D
Coaching Training)
Please include this coaching purpose statement in your team plan
Example from Joe Ehrmann: I coach to help boys become men of
empathy and integrity who will lead, be responsible, and change the
world for good.

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Coaches Bible Study:
All coaches are invited to participate in ongoing bible studies with
fellow coaches. Grant Williams leads a study for the men; Lindsay
leads a study for the women.
These studies are not mandatory but rather an opportunity for coaches
to meet together to connect, encourage, relate, and sharpen one
another on a regular basis.
We will consider adding additional study opportunities as need
presents.
Evaluation:
Coaches will be evaluated and observed by the athletic directors on a
regular basis.
Evaluation methods will include, but not be limited to, direct
observation in practice and game settings and player/parent/AD/self
evaluations.
Criteria will center on demonstration of transformational 3D Plus
coaching approach, embodiment of the Ten Pillars, participation in and
commitment to professional development opportunities through the
Center for Coaching Excellence, teachability, communication skills, etc
Coaches will be expected to complete the Coach Self-Evaluation Form
and participate in an annual review at the conclusion of each season
with both Matt and .

Eligibility

Lincoln Christian School is a proud member of the Missouri State High School
Activities Association (MSHSAA). Due to this membership, we have certain
standards that have to be met in order to be eligible to participate in
athletics.

Academics: All incoming 9th graders are eligible at the school they attend on
day one. In order to keep that eligibility they must pass at least six classes
each semester. A spring athletes eligibility is therefore dependent on how
he/she does in the prior fall semester; similarly, a fall athletes eligibility will
be dependent upon his/her academic performance the previous spring
semester. The athletic department will notify you if we become aware of any
academic struggles that need attention.

Attendance: MSHSAA policy states that all athletes and students

participating in any after school events must attend every class period in
which they are enrolled that day unless excused in advance by the
Principal (Administrative team). Simply put, if an athlete even misses
one hour they cannot participate in games or practices that day.
Please note that your athletes must be in contact with either the
athletic office or the US/MS offices for attendance if he/she is absent

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from any class in order to be excused and allowed to participate in athletics
that day.

Citizenship: MSHSAA also states that each student must be a credible citizen
in order to participate. Students participating must stay out of trouble with
the law, stay away from drugs and alcohol, and live up to the Westminster
Student Code of Conduct. Should a problem with the law occur it is the
obligation of the student and his/her parents to inform the school of such
issues. Any student who commits an act for which charges may be or have
been filed by law enforcement authorities under any municipal ordinance,
misdemeanor or felony statute shall not be eligible until all proceedings and
any penalty has been served.

Students receiving conduct detentions will find themselves missing

game time as well.

Athletic Department Contact Info:

Matt Farup
Athletic Director;
matt.farup@lincolnchristian.org
402.488.8888 x6135
314.574.9804 (cell)

Peter Grothaus
Assistant Athletic Director
peter.grothaus@lincolnchristian.org
402.488.8888 x6380
3148.809.3489 (cell)

Vikki Power
Athletic Department Secretary
vikki.power@lincolnchristian.org
402.488.8888 x6142
314.805.9654 (cell)

Hillary Orf
Athletic Trainer
horf@wcastl.org
314.997.2900 x6270

636.751.8793 (cell)

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 Ten Pillars Commitment

The Ten Pillars of Westminster Christian Academy Athletics are the foundation of the
athletic department. These principles represent the values we aspire for all coaches,
athletes, and parents to portray as we seek to engage the world and change it for
Jesus Christ through athletics. Competing on an athletic team at Westminster is a
privilege, and we expect student-athletes to uphold the Ten Pillars at all times. Any
student athlete found in violation of the Ten Pillars may face discipline as determined
by the Athletic Department, coach, Student Life Office, and an assistant head of
school.

1. Honor Jesus Christ in all things. He is the most important measure of

our success. Abiding by the Community Life Statement is imperative at all
times.
2. Christian character defines who we are. God-honoring behavior, good
sportsmanship, and abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are
required. School property and the property of others must be treated with
care and respect. In keeping with our commitment to love one another,
gossiping, profane language, dishonesty, immodesty, and
bullying/intimidation in any measure are unacceptable. Social media and
technology are areas in which we represent ourselves as members of the
Westminster community, so all of the expectations above extend to the
use of social media and technology.
3. Good grades and conduct lead the way. Successful athletes must be
successful students.
4. We before me. What is best for the team always comes first.
5. We will run the race to win. Competing at the highest possible level is
the goal.
6. We are in this together. Student athletes, coaches, and parents are all
on the same page. Parents are encouraged to show support for their
children from the sidelines, but all coaching should be left to the
Westminster coaching staff throughout practice and all competitions. We
ask non-captain students and all parents NOT to communicate with or
comment to the officials/referees at any time. Communication with
coaches should follow specific guidelines for when and what to discuss as
outlined in the team plan.
7. Commitments are paramount. Timely attendance and honoring your
word are the norm. Advance communication of any absence to coaches
and administration is expected.
8. We will grow and improve in and out of season. Getting better
demands hard work.
9. Supporting other players and teams is expected. We all share
Wildcat pride.
10. Positive attitudes will influence outcomes. Passion, enthusiasm, and
energy will drive us.

By signing below, I agree to uphold the standards of the Ten Pillars. I understand any
violation of the Ten Pillars may result in discipline or suspension from my athletic
team as determined by the Athletic Department, coach, Student Life Office, and an
assistant head of school. A students choice to voluntarily self-report any violation in
a timely manner will be taken into consideration when working through behaviors not
in keeping with the Ten Pillars.
_________________________ _________________________ Student
Name Student Signature

As a parent, my signature below represents my understanding and support of the Ten

Pillars and any consequences that may result should my son or daughter fail to
uphold these principles. In addition, I commit to the conduct as outlined in Pillar 6
and agree to abstain from coaching on the sidelines, addressing officials/referees,
and discussing other players and playing time with others.

______________________________________ _______________________________________
Parent Signature Parent Signature

Extracurricular Music Selection Guide and

Procedure

Westminster Christian Academy is blessed with many opportunities to

broaden the scope of the Christian education of students through special
events and extra-curricular activities.

Our school culture is marked by an understanding of the responsible

freedoms we are provided through the work of our Savior Jesus Christ. We
strive to focus on relationship before rules, but seek to stir each other up
with the truth of I Corinthians 10:23-24:

All things are lawful, but not all things are profitable All things are
lawful, but not all things edify. Let no one seek his own good, but
that of his neighbor.

We recognize that during events and extracurricular activities we must

seek the good of our neighbors, a broader audience. Each event is an
opportunity to be a positive example, holding to what is good, true, and
beautiful. Each event is also an opportunity to be a negative example to
confuse, agitate, be a stumbling block, or appear inconsistent with the
expectations of uniquely Christian school with a positive reputation in the
community.

There are some things we are not trying to determine when choosing
music for events or extracurricular activities. We are not trying to
determine if a song represents good or bad music. We are not trying to
determine if a song is appropriate for students to listen to on their own
time. What we are trying to determine is if a song is appropriate to be
received by the public (inside and outside our school) as representative of
Westminster Christian Academy.
This guide does not apply to the classroom/instructional use of music.
The Material Selection Guide (p. 18 and 19 in the Faculty Handbook)
outlines how to purposefully choose items for class discussion. Music of
many kinds can be useful when it can be explored in an educational
setting. In a public setting, however, music is presented without any
discussion possible. If we are unable to give our audience a lens through
which to view a song, then it must be a song that stands on its own.

Procedure for Helping Students Select Music for Events and

Extracurricular Activities

Please follow the procedures outlined below with excellent leadership and
positive communication:

1. Have students submit song titles, band names, and lyrics to you for
review in advance of the function. If the music will be used for a
performance, students should submit these before they begin
rehearsing. If a teacher, advisor, or coach is selecting music, please
follow the remaining steps in this procedure and utilize the
guidelines outlined in the Guidelines section below.

2. Read the lyrics of the entire song(s), even if only a short

instrumental section or instrumental version of the song will be
played, to determine its appropriateness for visitors, students,
parents, grandparents, and younger children. Instrumental popular
music with inappropriate lyrics, even if not sung, is still considered
inappropriate for events and extracurricular activities.

3. Seek out an administrator or department head if there are grey

areas (there are many) with which you are uncomfortable making a
decision on your own.

4. Give your approval to the song selection or suggest a change. If a

change of music is required, students must submit only the new
portion for review.

5. Students should give the advisor a copy of the final song or mix of
songs, in the event there is a need to check against the actual
music played.

General Guidelines

Teachers, advisors, coaches, and student leaders planning to use music in

any function outside the classroom should follow these general guidelines:
 1. Generally speaking, any music by Christian bands, those
bands promoted as Christian, may be played, unless specific
portions of the song wouldnt meet the other criteria outlined within
these Guidelines.
2. Music by bands not professing to be Christian may be played,
but must be reviewed carefully. References (implicit or explicit) to
violence, drugs, or sex will disqualify a song.
3. Any profanity will disqualify the song for consideration.
4. A song that repeatedly or prominently uses questionable
language or words with a great deal of shock value for some
younger audiences should also be avoided.
5. Bands with a general reputation for music about violence,
drugs, or sex should not be approved.

Some examples of great introductory messages or weekly emails to

parents:

Welcome to the Boys Varsity Swim and Dive team for 2015/16!

Mrs. Kempen and I look forward to meeting all of you soon. Swimmers and divers should report to the
pool this Monday August 3rd at 10am. We should be done with practice by 11:45. Please make sure
to have a swim suit (almost any suit with a draw string... we will be ordering team suits almost
immediately), goggles and a towel.

A reminder that everyone needs to be at 14 practices to become eligible to swim/dive in a varsity

meet. Also, you will need to have completed and turned in the MSHSAA physical forms for 2015-2016
by the start of practice on Monday in order to be eligible to practice.

God has blessed us with a great facility and a chance to become great athletes and great teammates.
Hopefully all of us will come with the understanding that improving athletic skill and Godly character
are our priorities as we work through the ups and downs of this Varsity swim season. We will be
praying for all of you--that you will see and know what God has planned for you both individually and
as a team.

Thanks again for your participation, and, again, we look forward to meeting swimmers, divers and
parents!
Kent D. Kehr, Jr

Director of Technology | Varsity Swim Coach

Westminster Christian Academy

p:314.997.2900 x6129 |f:314.997.2903 | wcastl.org

Dear Wonderful 8th Grade Parents and Players,

Tonight was a great effort against Villa. It was humbling as we had such a dedicated cheering section
of parents as well as the whole upper school Lacrosse Program! Thank you, everyone!

Now that weve played Villa, we will be better prepared for them on Saturday at 9am at WCA. Our
defense is doing a better job covering man to man, the offense is setting up some nice plays by
carrying the ball down the field, and we are shooting well. Sophie was amazing in goal! We
experienced full checking as well as not having to pass once when taking it down the field (regular
lacrosse rules that will be followed on all Metro gameswhile CYC requires one pass when carrying
the ball downfield, and has modified checking rules).

It was special to get feedback from some of the upper school girls; they were impressed our girls
received their input graciously and implemented their tips right away.

More importantly, we applaud your attitude and effort. You all work well together and are respectful of
each other and your opponents. We are proud of each of you. You are a real team.

See you all 9am Sat. April 18 8th Blue vs Villa WCA

Warmly,

Michelle Pottebaum

HelloCheerFamily!

Thisweekwewrappedupourfalltumblingsession.CoachCarrieandIaresoincrediblyimpressedwith
allthatthegirlshaveaccomplished!Everysinglecheerleaderhasimprovedwecouldntbemoreproud!
Withthatbeingsaid,wehavealreadycommunicatedwiththegirlsthattheyneedtomaintaintheirskills
throughthemonthofNovember.Ascoaches,wewillhelpspottumblingatpracticeandmakesurethegirls
aregivenanopportunitytothrowalloftheirskills.Wewillalsocontinuejumpingandworkinggameday
material.Wewillsoonbetransitioningtobasketballgamedaypreparation.

Thisweek,VarsityandJVwillhavepracticeonMonday(tomorrow)from6:008:30pm.Varsitywillcheer
onSaturdayagainstBorgiaat1:00pm.Cheerleadersgetinfree,butitwillcost$6percrowdmember,so
pleaseplanahead!

PleaseseebelowfortheJVandVarsitybasketballschedule.SOMEOFTHISWILLCHANGE.Wedonot
havethemostrecentversionoftheschedule,butwewillpassitonASAP.CoachCarrieandIwillhave
prettycalendarsforyouwhenwehavetheupdatedversion.Fornow,pleaserefertothislist.

JV
12/9@HOME5:30PM
1/9@HOME5:30PM
1/20@HOME5:30PM
1/22@HOME5:30PM
1/30@HOME5:30PM
2/3@HOME4:15PM
2/6@HOME4:15PM
2/20@HOME4:15PM
**2/21Competition@Louisville,KY
2/24@HOME5:30PM

VARSITY
12/9@HOME7:00PM
1/9@HOME7:00PM
1/15@HOME6:00PM
1/20@HOME7:00PM
1/23@HOME7:00PM
1/30@HOME7:00PM
2/3@HOME7:00PM
2/6@HOME7:00PM
2/20@HOME7:00PM
2/21Competition@Louisville,KY
2/24@HOME7:00PM

Again,CoachCarrieandIwillsendanupdatedcalendarwithallpracticesandgamesoncewereceivethe
updatedbasketballschedule.Shouldbesoon!

Thankyouforallowingustobesuchabigpartofyourdaughterslives.Wereallydonttakethistimewith
themforgrantedweloveeachandeveryoneofyourgirls.Welookforwardtospendingevenmoretime
withtheminthisnextstageofcheer!

Seeyousoon!

Coach Jen & Coach Carrie

Dear Seventh Grade Parents,

Welcome to the WCA Field Hockey program. We love your girls! They come ready to play and have
great attitudes. It was terrific meeting many of you last week at parent night. To briefly recap, here are
the most important items to know:

1.) Practices:
Eighth grade field hockey practices are Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Friday from 2:30-3:30pm
Practices will be held on the upper field* (second field on top, across from the concessions stand)
*practices usually in blue gym in bad weather

2.) Clothing/Equipment:
Practice: Girls may wear t- shirts and shorts to practice
Games: For first games reversible jerseys have been distributed to wear with girls' own t-shirts and
black shorts or skort
Great news! Middle school Field Hockey will have new uniforms this season to be distributed in a few
weeks.
All practices and games: Girls must bring a field hockey stick, mouth guard, shin guards, and eye
guards.

3.) One Team:

In addition to a seventh grade team, an eighth grade team, we now have a high school C and JV team!
The high school field hockey teams will implement a Big Sister/Little Sister program with the seventh
and eighth grade teams.

4.) Games:
The game schedule is listed below (yes, next Thursday we have our first game!)
Bus transportation is provided to the away games, but parents must take the girls home.

Please feel free to text, email, or call with questions.

Most Sincerely,

Michelle Pottebaum and Nancy Schmer

314-602-2605
6inarow6@att.net

7th Grade
Day Date Time Opponent Site Jersey

Mon 8/25 6:00 Meet Coaches WCA

Thur 9/4 5:00 Burroughs Burroughs Blue
Tue 9/9 5:00 Lincoln Edwardsville Blue
Thur 9/18 5:00 Lincoln Westminster White
Fri 9/19 5:00 Liberty Edwardsville Blue
Mon 9/22 5:00 Whitfield Whitfield Blue
Wed 9/24 4:00 Visitation Westminster White
Tue 9/30 5:00 MICDS MICDS Blue
Wed 10/8 5:00 Liberty Westminster White
Wed 10/15 4:00 Whitfield Whitfield Blue
Fri 10/24 5:00 MICDS MICDS Blue
FOOTBALL TEAM
PLAN
2012-2013
 Table of Contents
Westminster Football Core Elements
2

The 10 Pillars of Wildcat Athletics 4

Player Expectations 5

Player Specific Areas of Expectations

7

Athletic Eligibility 9

Parent Expectations 10

Coaching Expectations 12

Specifics for the 2012 Football Season 14

Character and Spiritual Growth Plan 16

 Westminster Football Core Elements

Westminster Christian Academy Vision:

To prepare and equip more young men and women to engage the
world and change it for Jesus Christ.

Football Team Purpose Statement:

Westminster Football will use the game of football to empower young
men to grow in their relationship with Christ, lead a life of high
character, and compete at their highest level.

The Three Cs of Westminster Football

Christ
The game is played in a way that honors Christ. This is at the forefront
of our mission as a football team. We will work as if we are working for
Christ and not man. We will play football in a way that honors God by
using the gifts that he has bestowed. The relationship with our
heavenly father will grow and strengthen as a result of being part of
the Westminster Football Program.

Character
Westminster football players will strive to display high moral character
at all times. Whether on the football field, in the classroom, or in the
community, we will act in a way that reflects positively on the program.
To avoid doing wrong is not good enough; we will do what is right
regardless of the cost. We will treat teammates as brothers. We will
honor those in authority over us.

Commitment to Excellence
We will strive for excellence in all areas of life on a daily basis.
Excellence requires commitment, effort, and discipline. Anything less
than our best mental and physical effort is unacceptable. Each day is
an opportunity to get better and we must take advantage of these
opportunities. Our success will be measured in comparison to our best
selves, not the number of victories we achieve. We must hold each
other accountable to this commitment.
The End Result

Westminster Football Players will:

1. Care more about others than themselves.
2. Learn the value of hard work and strive for excellence in all areas
of life.
3. Value teamwork and enjoy being part of something that is bigger
than the individual.
4. Develop strong character qualities by learning the importance of
respect, integrity, commitment, discipline, perseverance, and
unselfishness.
5. Love Westminster Football.
 The 10 Pillars of Wildcat Athletics
1. Honor Jesus Christ in all thingsthe most important measure of our
success

2. Christian character defines who we areGod-honoring behavior, good

sportsmanship, and avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are required.

3. Good grades and conduct lead the waysuccessful athletes must be

successful students.

4. We before mewhat is best for the team always comes first.

5. We will run the race to wincompeting at the highest possible level is

the goal.

6. We are in this togetherstudent athletes, coaches, and parents are all

on the same page.

7. Commitments are paramountshowing up and honoring your word is

the norm.

8. We will grow and improve in and out of seasongetting better

demands hard work.

9. Supporting other players and teams is expectedwe all share Wildcat

pride.

10. Positive attitudes will influence outcomespassion, enthusiasm,

and energy will drive us.
 Player Expectations
Always consider the decisions you make in relationship to Christ,
Family, School, and Football. Make decisions in all areas of your life
that reflect positively on these things. Abide by the standards you
committed to when you signed the Football Contract. Be a man of high
character.

Loyalty

You are expected to be loyal to your team and coaches at all times. As
a part of the Westminster Football Family, support and stand behind
your teammates and coaches at all times. Keep any Westminster
Football Team issues in the family.

Respect

Respect the coaches as authority figures in your life who wants what is
best for the team and for you. Trust in their decisions and know that
they will always put the team first. Respect your teammates as
brothers and work for their good.

Coachability

When a coach speaks to you, look him in the eye and acknowledge the
conversation. Put into practice what he is coaching, even if you are not
sure that you would do it the same way. Do not offer excuses or blame
others when you are corrected. Come to practice each day with a
great attitude and work hard to get better.

Effort

In all things that you do, 100% effort will be expected every day. Even
if you are not sure what you are supposed to do or do the wrong thing,
do it at full speed. The whistle marks the end of a play; do not slow
down until you hear the whistle both during games and practices.
Focus with mental intensity on the task at hand.
Sacrifice and Unselfishness

The team is always more important than the individual. Every member
of the team has a role that is important to the success of the team. No
role is more or less important than another. Be more interested in
helping others than helping yourself.

Profanity

Using the Lords name in vain, swear words, or vulgar speech and jokes
will not be tolerated. This kind of speech is not normal or acceptable
we must hold each other accountable to this standard. This applies on
the field, in the locker room, and off the field.

Playing Time

Playing football is a privilege, not a right. As a player advances

through the levels of the program (freshman, JV, and Varsity), playing
time becomes more competitive and less equally distributed. Playing
time is earned and not awarded.

Athletes receive playing time because:

1. They exhibit high character on the field, in the classroom, and in
the community.
2. They understand that their #1 goal is to make the team
successful.
3. They execute their responsibilities better than the other players
at their position.
4. They make plays during games and practices.
5. They exhibit consistent physical and mental effort during games
and practices.
6. They play football the way it was meant to be played tough and
physical.

Sideline Decorum

Players on the sideline during games should be focused on what is

occurring on the field. Encouraging teammates, listening to coaches
instructions, paying attention to the game, and being prepared to play
are all priorities. The game of football is a team effort that includes
those on the sideline as well as those on the field. Players should
always be ready to go at a moments notice.

Player Dress

The appearance of the player should strive to represent a unified team.

Players should dress in a way that brings attention to the team and not
to the individual.

Injured and other players on the sidelines not dressed for the game
must dress as follows:
1. Khaki shorts or pants
2. Tennis shoes (no sandals or flip flops)
3. Team Game Jersey or Westminster Polo. Coats are ok in cold
weather
4. No baseball hats. Cold weather hats are ok during cold weather

Players who fail to dress in this way may be asked to watch the game
from the bleachers.

Player Specific Areas of Expectations

Classroom

You are expected to be a good student in your classes. This means

that you respect the teacher, your classmates, and the learning
environment. Do not allow a poor attitude, poor behavior, or poor
grades to define you. Problems in the classroom will often follow you
to the football field.

On the Field

Westminster will not tolerate behavior on the field that:

1. Embarrasses our team, school, or community
2. Brings attention to the individual over the team

The following on-field actions exemplify Westminster Football:

Play with great effort at all times
No unsportsmanlike conduct or profanity of any kind. This
includes cheap shots, pushing off the pile, taunting, or fighting
Help opponents up after you knock them down
Help your teammates up after the play
Celebrate good plays with your teammates, not individually
Hand the ball to the official at the end of each play
 Respect the officials and their rulings and requests
Be gracious in both victory and defeat. Give sincere
congratulations to the opponent after the game.

Practice

1. Players are expected to have a great attitude and practice with

great effort.
2. Always be early.
3. All players should be at every practice.
4. Any player that will miss practice should call the Head Coach
before practice. We plan on all players attending and need to
know if some will be missing. This includes when students are
absent due to illness. The communication should come from the
player first, not the parent.
5. Injured players that cannot practice still need to be at practice.
They will follow their position coach and learn mentally even
though they cannot perform physically.
6. The trainer is the only person that can excuse a player from
practice due to injury. The trainer and coaches work closely
together.

Training Room

If you believe that you have an injury, you should report to the Athletic
Trainer. The trainer will direct you appropriately. If the injury occurs
during practice, inform your position coach first before going to the
trainer.

The training room is never an excuse to be late to practice. If you

must go to the trainer before practice, you should report to the training
room immediately after school in order to be on time for practice.

The Athletic Trainer has the ability to connect players with specialists
should the injury require additional medical care. For sports injuries, it
is always best to work through the trainer rather than a family doctor.

Facility/Equipment

You are expected to treat the football facility, including the locker
room, with the utmost care and respect. Any sort of damage or
vandalism, malicious or in good fun, will be dealt with severely. Keep
the locker room clean and protect the sanctity of the locker room.
Non-football student-athletes should never be in the locker room,
especially unsupervised. Protect each others possessions and trust.
You are responsible for the equipment issued to you at the beginning of
the season. The equipment issued will be recorded at the beginning of
the season and then checked during turn in. At no time should you
borrow equipment from other players, including injured players. If
you are missing or have lost equipment, you need to speak to the
coaching staff about replacements. Fines will be assessed for missing
equipment at the rate listed below.

Gear checked out to players: Replacement Cost:

Helmet $150 to $250
depending on model
Shoulder Pads $150
Practice Pants $20
Practice Jersey $20
Padded Girdle $45
Knee Pads $10
Game Pants $50
Game Jerseys $80 (Varsity), $20
(Frosh)
Belt $5

Athlete Eligibility
Westminster is a proud member of the Missouri State High School
Activities Association (MSHSAA). Due to this we have certain
standards that have to be met in order to be eligible to participate in
athletics

Academics

All incoming 9th graders are eligible at the school they attend on day
1. In order to keep that eligibility they must pass at least 6 classes
each semester.

Attendance

MSHSAA policy states that all athletes and students participating in

any after school events, (ie. music concerts and theatre productions)
must attend every class period in which they are enrolled that day
unless excused in advance by the Principal (Administrative Team). This
includes game day and practices. If you miss an hour you cannot
participate). Please be in contact with either the athletic office or Dr.
Sefrits office if you will be absent.

Citizenship

MSHSAA also states that each student must be a credible citizen in

order to participate. Students participating must stay out of trouble
with the law, stay away from drugs and alcohol, and live up to the
Westminster Student code of conduct. Should a problem with the law
occur, it is the student and parents obligation to inform the school of
such issues. Any student who commits an act for which charges may
be or have been filed by law enforcement authorities under any
municipal ordinance, misdemeanor or felony statute shall not be
eligible until all proceedings and any penalty has been served.

Parent Expectations
Athletics play a part in the Church, Home, School partnership in
educating your child. Expanding on the 10 Pillars, we ask that you
remember:

Our Coaches

1. Trust us. We put in a lot of time and energy and we want to win
as much as or more than anyone else.
2. We deeply care about your son and will coach him in a way that
we would hope our sons are coached.
3. Football is a loud, tough, disciplined, and emotional game we
coach the same way.
 4. The football program and coaches may require more
responsibility and discipline from the players than many other
areas of life.
5. If a problem arises, we ask that you follow the proper
communication steps for resolving the issue
a. Player to Position or Level (Varsity, JV, Freshman) Coach
b. Player to Head Coach
c. Parent and Player to Head Coach
d. Parent, Player, Head Coach, and Athletic Director
6. If a problem or issue arises, please keep the following things in
mind.
a. Please do not approach coaches after a game with
problems or issues. It is generally best to wait 24 hours
before communicating to allow emotions to cool and
reflection to occur.
b. Remember that the coaches will make decisions based
upon what is best for the team first.
c. Email is not a great communicative tool as it leaves a lot to
be interpreted. Phone calls are the best mode of
communication in these cases.
d. Please keep issues to your son, not to other players or
parents.

Our Players

1. Release them to the game.

2. Be positive and encouraging. They often know when they make
a mistake and need your support.
3. Be careful from overprotecting your son from disappointment or
setbacks. These often turn into teachable moments that will
benefit him for the rest of his life.
4. Place responsibility on your son whenever possible; help him to
grow and be a self-advocate.

5. Playing football is a privilege, not a right. As a player advances

through the levels of the program (freshman, JV, and Varsity),
playing time becomes more competitive and less equally
distributed. Playing time is earned and not awarded.

Athletes receive playing time because:

a. They exhibit high character on the field, in the classroom,
and in the community.
b. They understand that their #1 goal is to make the team
successful.
 c. They execute their responsibilities better than the other
players at their position.
d. They make plays during games and practices.
e. They exhibit consistent physical and mental effort during
games and practices.
f. They play football the way it was meant to be played
tough and physical.

Our Officials

1. Honor God with your behavior in the stands. We have a stage to

show others that we can compete at a high level as Christians
and still keep our composure when things dont go our way.
2. Remember that officials are trying to officiate well and do not
intentionally make bad decisions or calls. Focus on encouraging
the team and let the coaches work with the officials.

Our Opponents

1. We need to respect our opponents for the time and effort that
they put in to playing the game of football.
2. They are our opponents and not our enemy. Without them, we
would not be able to play the game of football.

Coaching Expectations
Have Fun

Win or lose, enjoy the opportunity that God has provided to work
with young men and coach the game of football
Make the atmosphere one in which the players want to
participate and look forward to football every day
Be a Professional

Work hard every day

Know your craft and be able to coach it
Be prepared for practices and games, never wing it
Be on time and complete your tasks

Prepare your Players for Excellence

Coach your players every play, every day

Coach all of your players
The games are played by the players, prepare them for the
games by the way that you coach in practice
Make sure that all drills and practice plans have a purpose
Expect great effort from your players
Be satisfied with nothing less than their best

Be Positive and Consistent

Provide positive feedback and encouragement and be excited for

player and team accomplishments
Hold all players accountable to the expectations set before them,
do not let things slide
Focus on what the team and players can do rather than on what
we cannot do

Be Honest

Provide honest and appropriate feedback to players

Provide honest opinions and input to the staff in a way that
builds the program

Be Relational

Love and coach the players as if they are your own, their parents
have entrusted us with a special opportunity and responsibility
Seek opportunities to foster relationships with players
Be just with all players, not necessarily the same
Understand your players needs and adapt to fit those needs
Be courteous and friendly to the parents of our players

Be a Positive, Christian Role Model

 Embrace opportunities to help our players grow in their faith
Model the character qualities that we hope to develop in our
players
Discourage drug, alcohol, and tobacco usage and discourage
conversations that glorify these activities
No profanity
Keep your emotions under control, never act or speak in anger
Understand that tone, body language, and facial expressions
convey your message as much or more than the words that you
use

Be Loyal to the Program, the Head Coach, the Staff, and the
Players

Everyone is in this together, we are a team

Keep program issues and matters such as discipline or
disagreements within the program
Talk positively about the program and its members
Handle conflict biblically, do not entertain conversations about
others behind their back
Present a united front on decisions made by the coaching staff

Be an Ambassador our Program and our School

Work effectively with our school community

Represent our school professionally and positively

Have a Voice

Be a contributing member of the coaching staff

Anyone can be a critic, seek to provide solutions when
identifying a problem
Seek ways to contribute to the decision making process
Be able to disagree in way that is agreeable and not divisive

Its Not About Me

We are part of something that is bigger than the individual

We are here to work with young men
Look for ways to elevate and serve others
Celebrate team success without concern about who receives the
credit
We are a Family

The football program is a special community, enjoy being a part

of it
Look for ways to involve your family in the program
The wives and children of the coaching staff love to interact and
support each other, encourage your family to be involved
Be there for the other coaches, players, and families in their
times of need

Specifics for the 2012 Football Season

Season Goals

Compete with Character

Finish with a winning record
Win a Conference Championship
Win a District Championship
Average Team GPA of 2.8 or higher for the First Quarter and
Semester

Game and Practice Schedule

A 2012 Calendar (summer and fall) was distributed as an excel file via
email. You can also find a copy of the 2012 Calendar at
www.sites.google.com/site/wcafball. This site is linked on the football
page of our Westminster website.

Fees

The following fees are collected by the Head Coach. A form will be
issued to each player in August with the following items. The form
should be filled out and returned to the Head Coach by Friday, August
10, 2012.

1. The football fee for the 2012 season will be $60. This fee will be
used to help offset the cost of mandatory helmet and shoulder
pad reconditioning.
2. All sophomores through seniors will need to pay $100 to cover
the cost for the Varsity pregame meals ($10 per meal).
 Freshmen will pay on a game by game basis based upon the
Varsity games that they attend.
3. Any new player will need to purchase a magnetic locker
nameplate for $8.
4. Westminster Football equipment bags are available for $35.
Virtually all players purchase one of these. They are extremely
useful for transporting equipment to and from school and games.
5. A family fee of $20 is used for the purchase of general
Westminster Football Community needs such as food for the
preseason kickoff meal, player buttons, and decorations for
lockers, senior recognition game decorations, etc.
6. The trip to Wheaton this year will cost $75. This helps to offset
the cost of transportation, lodging, and food.

End of Season Banquet

The end of season banquet this year will tentatively be held on Monday
evening, November 19, 2012. More information will come during the
season.

Leadership Council

This year will mark the first year of our Leadership Council. The council
will be comprised of 6-12 players from the sophomore, junior, and/or
senior classes. These players are part of a group nominated by their
peers to go through leadership training with the Head Coach during the
winter. The final council was then selected by input from this group
and the coaching staff.

Varsity Captains will be chosen on a weekly basis by their teammates

and coaches. There will be one captain each for the offense, defense,
special teams, and a coaches selection. Game captains do not need
to be a part of the Leadership Council.

Team Meals

The football team will have a team meal immediately after school in
the Caf before all Varsity games. The parents will organize the meals.
This is an important beginning to the mental game preparation needed
to be successful.

Team Clothing and Shoes

We will handle our team clothing sale online through Lids. This
company offers both Nike and Lids brand clothing. The Head Coach
will select the designs and clothing offered with input from senior
players and coaches. This sale will be open to everyone, not just
players. All clothing will be paid for online and delivered to the
individuals home. In addition, during a separate sale, players will
have the opportunity to buy Nike cleats and gloves at a 35% discount.
This is not mandatory. Order forms for each sale will be handed out to
players, emailed home to parents, and posted on
www.sites.google.com/site/wcafball.

Lettering

Players who participate in 20 quarters of varsity football during the

season will receive their varsity letter. The coaches reserve the right
to make exceptions to this requirement when they deem it necessary.

Communication Plan

Peggy Thompson will organize a weekly parent email. These emails

will cover the volunteer needs for the week, upcoming events, and
other parent information.

Other football specific information will come from the Head Coach as
needed.

Character and Spiritual Growth Plan

The curriculum that follows will be used to by the football program to
instill important character traits into the lives of Westminster Football
Players while helping them to grow in their faith. Players come to our
program at various stages in their faith life and it is our desire to meet
each where they are and provide an opportunity for growth.

Habits

The following habits will be actively coached and encouraged on a

daily basis in order to promote character growth.

1. Proper Greetings
2. Respect for Authority
3. Good Posture
4. Eye Contact
5. Appropriate Speech
6. Excuses
7. Be on Time
 8. Responsibility for equipment and locker room

Spiritual Growth

The following topics will be discussed as a team on a weekly basis.

1. Care for Others

Philippians 2:3-10, Romans 12:10, I John 3:16-18, John 13:34-
35
Brotherly/Masculine Love
Definition of Humility
Rewarded
2. Speech
Ephesians 4:29, James 3:2-12
How do others feel after talking to you?
Sarcasm
Vulgar language and content
3. Attitude
Colossians 3:17
What is attitude?
The aroma of the heart
Controllable
4. Self-Discipline
Proverbs 25:28, I Corinthians 9:25-27
Why is discipline important?
Poise
Focus
5. Work
Proverbs 14:23, Ecclesiastes 5:18-19, Genesis 2:15, Genesis
3:17
The payoff of hard work
The reason for work
6. Excellence
Colossians 3:23, Philippians 4:8
Definition of excellence
What does it cost?
Setting goals
7. Teammwork
I Corinthians 12
What team means
Team stars vs. Individual stars
Football definition of humility
 The whole vs. the sum of the parts
8. Respect
I Peter 2:14-17, Matthew 7:12
Authority
Golden Rule
9. Integrity
Proverbs 10:9, Job
Importance
Pitfalls
10. Perseverance and Success
James 1:2-5, Hebrews 12:1-3, Matthew 18:1-4
Handling success and failure
Handling criticism
Source of perseverance
11. Commitment
James 5:12, Life of Paul
Commitments of Life
Commitments to others
 2015 LACROSSE
TEAM PLAN

Westminster Vision:
To prepare and equip more young men and women to engage the
world and change it for Jesus Christ.

Athletics Purpose Statement:

Westminster Athletics is here to equip more men and women to
engage the world and change it for Jesus Christ by developing teams
which pursue excellence in the areas of Christian character, work
habits, academics and strengthening of the athletes faith in Jesus
Christ. Westminster has 10 non-negotiable expectations that are listed
below:

10 Pillars of the Westminster Christian Athletics:

1. Honor Jesus Christ in all things . . . the most important measure of our
success.

2. Christian character defines who we are . . . God-honoring behavior, good

sportsmanship, and avoiding drugs, alcohol, and tobacco are required.

3. Good grades and conduct lead the way . . . successful athletes must be
successful students.

4. We before me... what is best for the team always comes first.

5. We will run the race to win . . . competing at the highest possible level is
the goal.

6. We are in this together . . . student athletes, coaches, and parents are all
on the same page.

7. Commitments are paramount . . . showing up and honoring your word is

the norm.

8. We will grow and improve in and out of season . . . getting better demands
hard work.

9. Supporting other players and teams is expected . . . we all share Wildcat

pride.
10. Positive attitudes will influence outcomes . . . passion, enthusiasm, and
energy will drive us.

Eligibility
Westminster is a proud member of the Missouri State High School
Activities Association. Due to this we have certain standards that have
to be met in order to be eligible to participate in athletics

Academics All incoming 9th graders are eligible at the school they
attend on day 1. In order to keep that eligibility they must pass at
least 6 classes each semester.

Attendance MSHSAA policy states that all athletes and students

participating in any after school events, (ie. music concerts and theatre
productions) must attend every class period in which they are enrolled
that day unless excused in advance by the Principal
(Administrative team). That includes game day and practices. (If
you miss an hour you cannot participate). Please be in contact
with either the athletic office or Dr. Sefrits office if you will be
absent.

Citizenship MSHSAA also states that each student must be a

credible citizen in order to participate. Students participating
must stay out of trouble with the law, stay away from drugs
and alcohol, and live up to the Westminster Student code of
conduct. Should a problem with the law occur it is the
students and parents obligation to inform the school of such
issues. Any student who commits an act for which charges
may be or have been filed by law enforcement authorities
under any municipal ordinance, misdemeanor or felony statute
shall not be eligible until all proceedings and any penalty has
been served.

Students receiving conduct detentions will find themselves

missing game time as well.

Athlete Expectations/Team Rules

- Cuts: Final rosters will be determined based on several factors
including stick skills (ability to throw and catch with both their
right and left hands, cradle on both sides, shooting, defense,
checking), footwork, athleticism, speed, conditioning, field sense,
attitude, and coachability.
- Playing time will be based on various criteria, particularly the
level of play (C/JV/V). Some basic principles that will be
considered on all levels include skill level, athleticism, speed,
conditioning, attitude, coachability, and effort.
 C: Goal is to get all players ample playing time to develop basic
fundamental lacrosse skills and strategy to prepare them for
competition at the JV and ultimately Varsity levels. The goal is
approximately 50/50 playing time for all players, but please
recognize juggling playing minutes while coaching is no easy
task. The coaches commit to doing their best to get all girls
equal time on the field.
JV: Goal will be to get players adequate playing time to further
develop fundamental lacrosse skills and acquire the necessary
experience to progress in ability and eventually compete at the
Varsity level. Goal is approximately 70/30 playing time in regular
season games while maintaining the goal of a victory when
possible.
Varsity: Goal is to play to win. Our strongest line up will
compete predominantly in games. Wherever possible, we will be
playing subs and swing players for their own development and
experience at the Varsity level but not at the expense of
changing the outcome of a game.
- Lettering: If a player completes in any part of at least half of the
Varsity games, she will receive a Varsity letter.
- Fees Uniform tops are covered by the school for JV and V, but C
team players will need to purchase a reversible jersey that can
be worn for their C team games (and for future practices at the
JV/V levels). All C/JV/V players are required to purchase their
own black skirt to be worn for all games. These skirts can be any
brand, but they need to be entirely black (preferably with no
pleats) with black spandex shorts either built in or purchased
separately and worn underneath. All players will have the
opportunity to purchase team sweatshirts/apparel but only on a
voluntary basis.
- Time commitment Practices will run daily from 3:30-5:30.
Varsity will also practice on Saturdays. C team games are all on
Saturday mornings or early afternoon. Players are asked to
contact a coach in advance if she is unable to attend practice or
game for any reason. If a player misses a practice the day before
a game, she will not be eligible to start the next game (unless it
was an excused absence previously addressed with the coach).
- Girls should always bring their stick, mouth guard, goggles,
cleats, tennis shoes (in case of conditioning or weather forcing us
inside), and water bottle to practice and games.
- Game attire On game days, players should bring both home
and away uniforms. If competing in cold conditions, players
MUST wear BLACK leggings or BLACK long-sleeved shirts/cold
gear under their uniforms. The team must all wear the same
color of apparel underneath their uniforms. Uniforms not
 returned at the end of the season will result in the cost of
uniform being billed to the student.
- It is strongly encouraged for all players to participate in the
summer Strength and Conditioning program. Unfortunately, our
irregular and full game schedule inhibits us from doing this
regularly with Coach Schall in season. There are also numerous
summer camp opportunities both locally and regionally for
players to further develop their skills in the off season.
Information will be passed on throughout the season as these
opportunities become available. Additionally, there will be
ongoing open field opportunities this summer and in the off
season next fall and winter for those not competing in athletics.
- Coach Contact Info:
Varsity Coach: Lindsay Carlile (lcarlile@wcastl.org) 314.809.3489
Assistant Varsity Coach: Chris Knerr (cknerr@wcastl.org)
JV Coach: Jess Corbett (j.corbett711@gmail.com) 314.315.2191
C Team Coach: Christine Hehmeyer
(cmh261@lionmail.lindenwood.edu)
Please note that the C team will be coached during games by
Coach Hehmeyer and/or one or more of the JV/V Coaching Staff.
In the event the entire coaching staff has their own coaching
commitment conflicts, the MS lacrosse coaches will step in to
coach the girls.

Parent Expectations Athletics plays a part in the Church, Home,

School partnership in educating your child. Expanding on the 10
pillars we ask you to remember:
1. Our Coaches Trust them. They put in a lot of time and energy
and they want to win more than anyone else. They will also
make decisions based upon what is best for the team.
- If a problem arises we ask that you follow the proper steps for
resolving the issue
a. Have the player talk to their level coach
b. Have the player talk to the Head Coach
c. Parent call and set up an appointment with the player,
Head Coach and Level Coach if necessary
d. Set up a meeting with the Parents, Player, Coach and AD.
- Please do not approach coaches immediately after games. It is
best to have a cooling off period. Try not to use email because
often times that can be misinterpreted. Coaches will talk to you
given the right time, place and tone.
2. Our Players Release them to the game. Let them play and be
positive with them. Remember they are not perfect and they
typically know when they make a mistake. Please dont
compound that by calling them out. Often times, as parents, we
want to protect our kids from disappointment and setbacks.
 These, however, turn into teachable moments, and we want
them to learn from them as they may face them later on life.
3. Our Officials Honor God with your behavior in the stands. We
have a stage to show others that we can compete as Christians
at a high level and still keep our composure when things dont go
our way. Remember that they are trying and they are also
someones family (and sometimes they are there as well).
4. Our opponents We need to respect our opponents for the time
and effort they put in. They are our opponents; they are not our
enemy.

Coaching Expectations:
1. Communicate
2. Have fun
3. Be positive and enthusiastic
4. Make a difference. Positive Christian role model
5. Look for ways to constantly improve
6. Be a professional
7. Be prepared
8. Expect game like performances
9. Trust your staff
10. Work closely with coaches of other programs

Player Character and Spiritual Growth Plan

As a program, we are committed to developing our athletes into young
women of Godly character. As coaches, our primary focus is to love,
challenge, equip, and encourage our student athletes both on and off
the field. More than anything, we want our players to leave the
program stronger spiritually, more secure in how He has gifted them,
better equipped to serve Him, and more confident in how much He
loves them. We will do our best to intentionally accomplish this in the
following ways:
-Constant pursuit of excellence: Winning games will hopefully be the
outcome of pursuing excellence, but our focus is to be excellent in
everything we do (Colossians 3:23). In our efforts to honor Him with all
that we do, we hope to sharpen one another and serve as an example
to our teammates, coaches, fans, opponents, and officials, regardless
of the score in competition or daily practices (Psalm 27:17).
-Team devotions: Led by student athletes and coaches on a weekly
basis, we hope to see the application of Gods word into our daily lives
and our time on the lacrosse field (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
-Prayer: Players/coaches will open and close every practice and game
with prayer. Additionally, the coaches are committed to regularly
praying for the athletes and as need presents (1 John 5: 14-15).
-Respect for authority: We will encourage our athletes to respect the
authorities placed in their lives including their parents, teachers,
coaches, referees, and opposing coaches at all times (Romans 13:1).
Additionally, we want to encourage the girls to respect their opponents
and serve as an example in how they conduct themselves as
competitors and teammates (1 Timothy 4:12).
-Encourage humility and a servants heart: Encourage the biblical
principle that to be a successful teammate and competitor, we must
continue to put the needs of others first (Philippians 2). Further, we
will exhort our athletes to love their opponents by both winning and
losing gracefully (Mark 12:31).
-Foster an atmosphere of acceptance and love: We want this team to
be one where girls feel the love of the Lord and accepted just as they
are, regardless of their performance on the field (John 13:34-15).
-Competing as a Christian athlete: The vehicle of sport is an
exceptional platform to glorify the Lord. As the WCA lacrosse team, we
will consistently remind our athletes that being a part of this team is a
unique way to use the gifts they have been blessed with athletically to
honor the Lord. We will implore them to use that gifting and influence
to point others to the Lord, not to their own recognition or glory (Psalm
115:1).
-Coaches: We consider it a great privilege to work with these student
athletes every day. As a result, we are committed to doing our best to
serve as role models to the girls in all circumstances (including when
we make mistakes). We will be intentional with our conversations as
opportunities and needs present, being open to the Holy Spirit and
addressing things that matter most in the moment. We realize there
will be countless teaching moments over the course of the season, and
we hope to capitalize on these opportunities wherever possible. We
are committed to praying for and serving these girls out of our love for
how the Lord has uniquely created and blessed them (Psalm 139:14).