REQUIREMENTS TO PARTICIPATE

Before being allowed to participate in the first practice session of a sport, the following information must be on file in the principal's office for each participant:

• Written evidence that the student has permission to participate. This must be signed by the parent or guardian.
• Written evidence that the student has passed a physical examination. This must be signed by a doctor of medicine, osteopathic physician, and physician assistant or certified nurse practitioner. Physical examinations must be given on or after MAY 1 and are then current for thirteen months or the entire upcoming school year.
• Written evidence that the student is covered by a family insurance policy. This statement must list the name of the company and be signed by the parent or guardian. If the student is not covered by a family policy, the student must have the special senior high football policy or the student insurance which covers all middle, ninth and senior high sports except senior high football.
• If an athlete goes to an athletic screening examination and is referred to another physician for further evaluation, the parents or guardian must provide the coach with written evidence that the student has passed a physical examination and the physician must address the condition for Athletic Program General Rules and Regulations which the student was referred. The physician must also specify any accommodations that are needed or must be made.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS

Student eligibility requirements for participation in interscholastic athletics are established by the local district in accordance with TSSAA policy.

• Current schedules and eligibility lists must be sent to the Athletic Office one (1) week prior to the first contest.
• Out-of Zone: Each coach must communicate to students and parents and comply with the rules for out-of-zone students who want to compete in athletics. No student should compete until proper verification for out-of-zone participation is in the coach’s possession. (For more information refer to 1503.)
• Ninth Grade: Ninth grade coaches may not allow anyone to participate in athletic contests or scrimmages unless the athlete has passed five (5) subjects or the equivalent the preceding semester (not year). These subjects must be attended daily. Alternating class grades must be averaged together. 
• Even though the TSSAA allows an athlete to transfer to another school within the school year at the time of a move, at the end of the six weeks, at the end of the semester or at the end of the year, Metro schools require an athlete who moves out-of-zone to obtain an out-of-zone transfer as soon as a move takes place if the athlete stays at the original school. 
• All physical forms, proof of insurance and parent permission forms must be filed in the principal’s office. Copies of the original forms can be given to each individual coach to have in his/her possession.
• An athlete must be present at least for 50% of the school day to compete in any after-school athletic activities except in unusual circumstances. In unusual circumstances, the principal may use discretion in applying this rule.
• Participation (minimum number of participants) means all paperwork has been turned in and the student has actually practiced.
• All middle school coaches must abide by the Middle School Bylaws which are located in the school office.

To view all athletic policies and procedures, visit http://www.policy.mnps.org/~/Page51144.aspx