Augusta Eagles Annual Fee

Eagle Sports was established to provide a competitive athletic program tailored for home-educating families in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). Annually, from January 1st through December 31st, Augusta Eagles assess a $30 administrative fee per athlete. This fee is collected once per year, regardless of the number of sports an athlete participates in, and supports the overall administrative costs of the organization. In addition, $5.00 of this fee is allocated to the Fellowship of Christian Athletes program within Eagle Sports.

Please read the Augusta Eagles Policies and Procedures as well as the Leadership statement of belief below before registering.

Boys

·        Basketball (Middle School / High School)

·        Baseball (Middle School / High School)

·        Cross Country (Grades 3–12)

·        Football (Middle School / High School)

·        Soccer (High School)

·        Swimming (Middle School / High School)

·        Tennis (Middle School / High School)

·        Track & Field (High School)

Girls

·        Basketball (Middle School)

·        Cheerleading (Middle School / High School)

·        Cross Country (Grades 3–12)

·        Softball (Middle School / High School)

·        Soccer (High School)

·        Swimming (Middle School / High School)

·        Tennis (Middle School / High School)

·        Track & Field (High School)

·        Volleyball (Middle School / High School)

Please note that payment of the annual membership fee is required prior to registration for any sport.

Mission Statement:

 The mission of Eagle Sports of Greater Augusta, Inc (aka Eagle Sports) is a commitment to a long-term provision of an atmosphere that promotes the development of Christ-centered character traits, the encouragement of physical abilities, and the teaching of fundamental athletic skills, which promotes a lifetime of healthy habits.

Purpose Statement:

 Eagle Sports was started with the goal of providing a competitive athletic program for the home-educating families of greater Augusta, Georgia. We know that physical education and team sports will provide a wide variety of valuable teaching opportunities to help us prepare our children for the future. Home-educating families who have signed the appropriate forms at registration acknowledging their compliance with the eligibility requirements, code of conduct, and Eagle Sports’ philosophy and expectations and who have paid the Eagle Sports registration fee of $25 for the academic year are eligible to participate in an Eagle Sports program.

Eligibility Requirements:

This program is offered to traditional home-educated students. The committee has the discretion to allow non-homeschooled students (private, magnet, or public) and cyber-schooled students to participate if the school in which the student is enrolled does not offer that sport. In all cases, the traditional home-educated student should be considered first. 

Age Requirements:

 In order to play on an Eagle Sports team, the student-athlete must be age 7 by September 1st of the current academic year or remain the age of 19 or under by May 1st preceding his/her year of participation. Players will generally play on the youngest team for which they are eligible. Each student-athlete will be placed on a specific team based on their age and talent level. At times, depending on the roster and the player’s age, we may not be able to fill an age team with enough players. A player may be asked to “play up” an age bracket if feasible for everyone involved. Also, a player may be invited to “play up” by the coach. Only coaches can offer such an invitation, and the invitation will be mutually agreed to by all the coaches involved with the student-athlete. It is up to the player’s parents to determine if this is in the best interest of their child. Coaches will extend the invitation to the parents before the player. Likewise, a player may also be asked to “play down.” (See Section 5 – General Committee and Team Guidelines, part 13 for additional details.)

Team General Age Breakdown**:

1. Elementary School – ages 7-11 years old

2. Middle School – ages 11- 14 years old

3. Junior Varsity – ages 13- 16 years old

4. Varsity – ages 13-19 years old

**Tournaments may vary in age requirements. Head coaches will determine which student athletes may compete in specific tournaments.

Four Year Rule (Varsity Eligibility):

 1. Once an athlete reaches age 15 on or before May 1st, he/she will have four (4) consecutive years of varsity eligibility.

2. Players must not have graduated from home-school, private or public high school.

3. Participation on a college team terminates all high school eligibility.

Sports Physical Form Requirements: 

 In order to play on an Eagles Sports’ team or participate in a clinic, the student-athlete must provide a sports physical form from a healthcare professional. Exceptions will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. If you desire an exception, please contact a team Committee member. Medical Insurance Requirements: Each student-athlete must have primary medical insurance in case of injury. Secondary insurance is incorporated into the registration fees, which cover excess medical and liability for participation in Eagle Sports programs. Eagle Sports' secondary insurance carrier is Terry L. Green & Associates, a division of Esports Insurance. Exceptions will be dealt with on a case-by-case basis. If you desire an exception, please contact a team Committee member.  

Eagle Sports’ Code of Conduct:

 Eagle Sports promotes a wholesome family atmosphere for players and their families. Respect for coaches, referees, parents, teammates, and competitors is required. Parents and coaches should be role models. This code of conduct is to be followed at all times by players, parents, and coaches. Vulgar or abusive language, unsportsmanlike conduct, immodest behavior, fighting, or similar unbecoming displays will not be tolerated.  Vandalism or destruction of equipment or property at game or practice sites will not be tolerated. The coaches, specific team Committee members, and/or the Board members have the authority to place offending persons on disciplinary suspension. 

It is Eagle Sports' desire to build quality competitive teams. We believe competition serves to measure ability, hard work, determination, focus, training, and teamwork, each of which we will strive to improve. Competition is a life tool. It can be used for good or harmful purposes. We will strive to harness competition for good. 

Parents' Code of Conduct:  

I recognize that by allowing my child to play on an Eagle Sports team, I will be actively involved in the following ways: 

• I understand that regular participation at practice is MANDATORY. I understand that failure to attend regularly scheduled practices may result in loss of playing time and possibly will incur reasonable discipline at the discretion of the coach. I will help my child get to practices and games ON TIME (meaning that when practices and/or games are scheduled to start, the player is dressed in the appropriate attire and ready to begin.) 
• I will encourage my child to abide by the code of conduct. 
• I understand that participation in Eagle Sports is an enormous undertaking, and it will require the full dedication of not only the players but the parents. Thus, I understand that I must serve in volunteer capacities throughout the year, including but not limited to fundraising, email/contact coordinator, line judges, scorekeeper, concessions, gatekeeper at games, special events coordinator, first aid, website coordinator, etc.
• I will refrain from the use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and profanity at all youth sports events and related gatherings.

I understand and will abide by the Eagle Sports appeal process when I have a concern or grievance: 

• If I have an issue with an individual, I will go to that person seeking a resolution at the appropriate time. If that individual is a coach, I will take my concern to the particular sport’s committee.
• If I am not able to resolve the issue, I will speak with the individual and another team Committee member together. 
• If I am still not able to resolve the issue, I will speak with the individual, a Committee member, and a Board Member. 
• If we are still not able to resolve the issue, I understand the Director of the Board has the sole discretion as to whether the matter should be taken to the entire Board. 
• I will never corner a coach unannounced with my concern. Instead, I will call the coach beforehand and set up a time that works for everyone. Under no circumstances will I approach a coach with my concern during a game or practice, before a game or practice, and especially after losing a game. 

I realize that I represent Eagle Sports just as distinctly as the players on a team. Therefore, I have an obligation to be a true sportsman as well as to encourage the practice of good sportsmanship. I understand that good sportsmanship involves applauding good team play, individual skill, and outstanding examples of sportsmanship and fair play exhibited by either team. 

I will respect the judgment of coaches and officials during games and realize that their decisions are based on fast-moving game conditions as they observe them from their vantage point.

I realize that Eagles Sports is a Christ-centered organization and, as such agree to my child being exposed to the religious beliefs and teachings described in the organization’s Statement of Beliefs.

Athlete’s Code of Conduct:

 1. By joining my Eagle Sports team, I agree to uphold the following program rules:

• I will listen to the instruction of my coaches. 
• I will attend all practices and games and will arrive ON TIME. (See section on Absences and Punctuality.) 
• I will always notify my coach if I must miss a practice or a game. 
• I will show self-control by not participating in the use of profane language, displays of affection, alcohol, tobacco, or drugs. 
• I will be courteous to visiting teams, officials, and other adults. 
• I will respect the facilities of the host team and the facilities in which I practice and compete in games. 
• I will follow the rules established by my team. 
• I will encourage my teammates and speak highly of them when talking to others. 
• I will be modest when successful and gracious in defeat. 
• I will properly maintain any gear/uniforms issued to me during the season and return the items at the conclusion of the season. 
• I will abide by the following dress code: 
• I will not wear jewelry during practices or games,
• I will maintain a clean-cut appearance during the season. 

Coaches’ Code of Conduct:

 All coaches working within Eagle Sports organization are appointed and/or hired by the Board with the recommendation of the teams’ Committee. Coaches must consent to a background check and agree to follow the rules of the organization. It is understood that their failure to do so is grounds for immediate release. Coaches are selected for their knowledge of their sport, their ability to relate to student-athletes, and their character and integrity. Eagle Sports understand that our players look up to these coaches as role models. 

Eagles Sports Philosophy and Expectations:

 All of us at Eagle Sports want this experience to be fun for all participants, but it is important to understand that “entertainment” is NOT our first objective. Instead, our primary objective is to teach our players the sport in which they are participating and to do this in an atmosphere that promotes the development of Christian ideals and values. Furthermore, Eagle Sports believe that although extracurricular programs are beneficial, academics should still come first. Thus, all must understand that students should prioritize their school day and keep a good attitude while finishing all required work. This being said, parents should find ways and times for children to do work and meet deadlines so that missing practices and/or games are not used as punishment mechanisms since such approaches hurt the entire team. Parents are encouraged to discuss their child’s particular situation with the coach. 

Playing Time:

 Eagle Sports consists of competitive teams ranging from middle school to varsity high school sports. When players make the choice to play at a competitive level, they are leaving the traditional recreational approach of “everybody plays the same” and are moving towards a more “I’ll rely on my ability and skill to earn playing time” concept. This said, Eagle Sports has a strong desire and responsibility to provide playing time to those who have earned it. The general rule will be that at the middle school level, all participants will be given some playing time, but as the competition level increases, the amount of playing time is determined by the athletes’ abilities, competitive desire, team needs, and game situations. Players are encouraged to speak to the coach if they have questions regarding how they can increase their playing time. 

Official Season:

 Eagle Sports will publish the official season dates for each sport. These dates will be consistent with other quality home school programs across the country and will take into consideration the overlap of other Eagle Sports programs. A coach will not require a student-athlete to participate in a new sport while they are involved with a sport that is in season. 

Out of season clinics/conditioning programs:

 Eagle Sports does encourage its players to develop the athletic skills required for their sport over the summer and off-season. Thus, coaches may offer an off-season activity that would be a positive activity for the players. However, participation in all out-of-season Eagles’ clinics/conditioning programs are VOLUNTARY, and the decision to participate resides with the parents and players. 

Discipline:

 Discipline is a necessary part of any athletic training. It builds character and creates team unity. Giving 100% should be the goal of each player and coach. Specific disciplinary actions will be decided upon by the coach for a specific situation. At no time should a coach ever place a hand on an athlete for disciplinary reasons. We remind our team members, “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Jesus Christ you are serving.” Col. 3:2324 

Self-discipline is another necessary part of athletic training. Players on Eagle Sports teams are expected to be in good physical condition during the athletic season. Therefore, it is important that they maintain a fitness regimen throughout the year. The coaches will provide the players with directions regarding exercises that will help increase endurance, stamina, flexibility, and strength. Due to the limitation of practice facilities, players should be willing and prepared to exercise and train on their own.

Absences and Punctuality:

 Regular participation at practice is MANDATORY. Failure to attend normally scheduled practices may result in loss of playing time and possibly incur reasonable discipline at the discretion of the coach. 

Excuses for an absence include family emergencies or severe sicknesses such as fever or vomiting. In these instances, a parent or player should contact one of the coaches as soon as possible in order to make them aware of the situation.  

Uniform:

 Each player will be issued a uniform by Eagle Sports. This equipment is owned by the teams and not the individual players. Student-athletes will receive the appropriate uniform for the sport upon fees being paid. A uniform agreement is to be signed by each player’s parent/guardian, agreeing to return any and all equipment issued to their child by the team. 

Natural wear and tear of equipment is expected; however, abuse or loss of equipment furnished by Eagle Sports will not be tolerated. If this occurs, a fee will be assessed to repair or replace the equipment. 

Team uniforms are to be worn neatly and as designed. The committee will determine the uniform requirements for practices and games with coach input, and all players must follow these guidelines. Eagle Sports reserves the right to define inappropriate attire worn by players during practices and while attending games.

Fundraising:

All Eagle Sports teams are under Eagle Sports of Greater Augusta, Inc., a nonprofit organization. We have found that fundraising helps offset the extensive costs of athletic teams. Specific fundraisers will be available each year for all players’/families' participation. Sponsorship forms are also available for businesses and/or family members who wish to make a tax-deductible donation. Many volunteers are needed to make fundraisers successful for the team. If you have fundraising ideas, please see a committee member. 

Communication:

The primary means of communicating information to Eagle Sports players and families is email and our website at www.eaglesportsathletics.com. The website calendar has the most current information on practice times and dates, scheduled games, as well announcements about other Eagle Sport activities and opportunities. Failure to check Eagle’s website and own email is not an excuse for missing an announcement. (Any changes in email or phone number need to be immediately communicated to the coach and team committee member.) PLAYERS AND FAMILIES SHOULD BE IN THE HABIT OF CHECKING THE WEBSITE AND EMAIL ON A DAILY BASIS.  

Program Participation Fees:

The participation fee will be published by each team Committee. This fee includes:

1. Administrative fees
2. Secondary insurance
3. Use of game uniforms
4. Cost of Court/Field rental
5. Officials
6. Compensation for coaches, if applicable

Additional costs may be incurred throughout the season beyond the initial registration fee and sport specific fee. These costs typically include, but are not limited to:

1. Transportation costs to and from practice/games
2. Meals before and after games
3. Additional personal equipment (optional)
4. Concession stand donations

We believe the Bible to be the only inspired, trustworthy and true, inerrant Word of God. (2 Timothy 3:16-17)

We believe there is only one God who eternally exists in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:19)

We believe Jesus Christ is God, in His virgin birth, in His sinless life, in His miracles, in His death that covered our sin through His shed blood, in His bodily resurrection, in His ascension to the right hand of the Father, and in His personal return in power and glory in the End Days. (John 1:1; Matthew 1:18,25; Hebrews 4:15; Hebrews 9:15-22; 1 Corinthians 15:1-8; Acts 1:9-11; Hebrews 9:27-28)

We believe that acceptance of Jesus Christ and the corresponding transformation by the Holy Spirit is the only path to salvation for lost/sinful men and women. (John 3:16; John 5:24; Titus 3:3-7)

We believe in the present ministry of the Holy Spirit, living within and guiding Christians, so they are enabled to live Godly lives. (John 14:15-26; John 16:5-16; Ephesians 1:13-14)

We believe in eternal life and that through belief in Jesus Christ as the Son of God, we spend eternity with the Lord in Heaven. We believe that in rejecting Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, we receive eternal suffering in hell. (Matthew 25:31-46; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18)

We believe in the spiritual unity of believers in our Lord Jesus Christ, that all believers are members of His body, the church. (Philippians 2:1-4)

We believe man is the special creation of God, made in His own image. He created them, male and female, as the crowning work of His creation. Denial of one’s birth gender is, in essence, a denial of God Himself. (Genesis 1:27)

We believe God has ordained the family as the foundational institution of human society. It is composed of persons related to one another by marriage, blood, or adoption. Marriage is the uniting of one man and one woman in covenant commitment for a lifetime. It is God’s unique gift to reveal the union between Christ and His church and to provide for the man and the woman in marriage the framework for intimate companionship, the channel of sexual expression according to biblical standards, and the means for procreation of the human race. (Genesis 2:24, Matthew 19:1-9, 1 Corinthians 7, 1 Corinthians 6:9-10, Romans 1:24-32)