MANCHESTER FLYING DUTCHMEN

Manchester Community Schools considers athletics to be an important part of our overall education program.  The program shall be so directed that the welfare of the students will be the rule.  Every effort should be made to assure student participation and encourage as many students as possible to share in the benefits of athletic participation.  While participation is to be encouraged, it should be regarded as a privilege to participate in the athletic program.  A student must understand that they are accepting not only the privileges and benefits of participating, but also the responsibilities.  Representing the school is an honor and students must at all times exhibit model behavior.  Continued emphasis shall reinforce the philosophy that the athletic program is an integral part of the educational program and should be a positive learning experience.  Sportsmanship, fair play, teamwork, loyalty and the discipline of hard work are important values to be learned from athletics.

All athletic activities in the Manchester Community Schools shall be coordinated with the general instructional program and be in complete harmony with the objectives of the total school program.

The interscholastic athletic program shall be conducted in accordance with existing Board of Education policies and rules and regulations.  While the Board of Education takes great pride in winning, it does not condone “winning at any cost” and discourages any and all pressure, which might tend to neglect good sportsmanship.  At all times, the athletic program must be conducted in such a way so as to justify it as an educational activity.

Every effort will be made to support the athletic program with the best facilities, equipment and with the most qualified staff available.  In so far as possible, knowledge and skills gained in classes should be applied and developed further through participation in the athletic program.  Coaches, directors and advisors should also teach the specific skills necessary for improvement in activities and provide guidance in the development of self-realization, good sportsmanship, cooperation, leadership, ethical behavior, sensitivity and an appreciation for the importance of practice including teamwork, loyalty and the discipline of hard work.

The ultimate goals of the athletic program should be:  

• to realize the value of participation with an appropriate and balanced emphasis on winning or excelling, and to develop and improve positive citizenship traits among all participants.