Student-Athlete Handbook

BELIEVE

ENVISION

FEARLESS

INSPIRE

EXCELLENCE

RESPECT

CAPITALIZE

ENDURE

FORWARD

Letter from the Director of Athletics

Dear Daemen Wildcat Student-Athletes:
Welcome and thank you for choosing Daemen University to pursue your academic and athletic goals!
Daemen Athletics strives to provide you with a balanced collegiate experience academically, athletically, and socially. Our hope is to provide you with a meaningful experience and help you commit to becoming your best-self.

Daemen Athletics aims to provide resources which will promote an atmosphere for student-athletes to excel academically and athletically, embrace diversity of thought and culture, and develop values of respect, integrity, responsibility, servant leadership and sportsmanship. Your success at Daemen University is a result of the effort you put into your experience. Please take advantage of the diverse services available on campus that are in place to help you excel during your collegiate experience as well as following graduation.

It is imperative that you are mindful of your personal responsibility to represent your team, the Division of Athletics, and Daemen University in a positive manner. The personal choices and behavior you exhibit have an impact on the whole and we expect you to represent our institution in an exemplary manner.

Please review the student-athlete handbook for important information for participation in intercollegiate athletics at Daemen University. Student-athletes must be mindful of all rules and regulations established by Daemen University and the NCAA to remain eligible for competition. You are responsible for complying with all bylaws related to your eligibility status.

We are thrilled that you have chosen Daemen University! We are committed to your development in an inclusive and respectful environment and look forward to witnessing all of your successes!

Go Wildcats!
Traci Murphy
Director of Athletics
Vice President for Athletics
tmurphy@daemen.edu

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this handbook is to assist you in your role as both a student and an athlete at Daemen University. It includes information regarding the National Collegiate Athletic Association, East Coast Conference, and Northeast Conference policies regarding student-athlete welfare and expectations, academic expectations, finances of student-athletes, and the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. In order to be successful in your role as a student-athlete, it is important that you read the handbook in its entirety. Student-athletes are encouraged to obtain clarification of any Divisional, University or NCAA rule or regulation which they do not understand from a member of the coaching staff or the Division of Athletics.

DAEMEN UNIVERSITY, ATHLETICS, ECC, & NCAA

Daemen University Philosophy

The educational experience at Daemen University is directed toward the development of the whole person within a value-oriented community. The University is committed to the balance between the rights of the individual and the individual’s responsibilities to society. Faculty and staff involvement is an important element of student development and in the student’s realization that they are part of a caring and supportive community.

Athletics Missions and Goals

Daemen University offers intercollegiate athletics in order to provide an opportunity for students to participate in athletic competition at an advanced level.

The mission of Daemen Athletics is to:

• Create tomorrow’s leaders by developing championship-caliber student-athletes

The vision of Daemen Athletics is to:

• Cultivate high character student-athletes through competitive experiences, fostered in the classroom, developed through sport, and productive in the

The main objectives are to:

• Create an environment that allows students, faculty, administration & alumni/ae to participate in intercollegiate, club and intramural sports as well as wellness activities
• Promote an atmosphere for student-athletes to excel in both academics & athletic
• Promote diversity through Daemen Athletics programs
• Develop values of respect, integrity, responsibility, servant leadership, and sportsmanship

Sports Offered

• Men’s Basketball
• Women’s Basketball
• Men’s Cross Country
• Women’s Cross Country
• Women’s Bowling
• Men’s Soccer
• Women’s Soccer
• Men’s Tennis
• Women’s Tennis
• Men’s Track & Field(Indoor/Outdoor)
• Women’s Track Field(Indoor/Outdoor)
• Men’s Volleyball
• Women’s Volleyball
• Women’s Lacrosse

East Coast Conference

Daemen University Athletics is in the East Coast Conference, which is committed to the highest standards of scholarship, teamwork, and citizenship. The conference’s mission is to promote the holistic development of the student-athlete and stresses the abilities to excel in academic achievement, athletic competition and positive character traits.

The East Coast Conference was previously named the New York Collegiate Athletic Association until July of 2006. This conference was formed in order to improve intercollegiate athletic competition among its founding members, and to assist member organizations in establishing intercollegiate athletics into their academic programs in a way that is financially possible.

The East Coast Conference (ECC) incorporates nine institutions that are located from Western New York and down to Washington, D.C.

ECC Members for the 2024 – 2025 Competition Year

• Mercy College
• St. Thomas Aquinas College
• Robert Wesleyan College
• Daemen University
• University of the District of Columbia
• D’Youville University
• Queens College
• College of Staten Island
• Molloy College

**Men’s Volleyball is member of the Northeast Conference

National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and Division II

The East Coast Conference, and therefore Daemen University Athletics, is a part of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The NCAA is the largest intercollegiate athletics association in the United States, and includes over 1,200 institutions spread across Division I, II, and III. Daemen University is among the 300+ Division II institutions. Division II is unique because of the division’s commitment to the holistic development of the student-athlete, which means that the institution is responsible for providing student development opportunities inside and outside of the classroom. The Division II approach provides growth opportunities through academic achievement, athletic competition, and development of positive societal attitudes in service to the community. Division II athletics is committed to not only graduating student-athletes, but also to giving student-athletes the skills necessary for the workforce and life after graduation.

NCAA RULES

Recruiting

Student-athletes are permitted to engage in correspondence with a prospective student athlete as long as it is not done at the direction of Daemen University or at the cost of Daemen University. In addition, a student-athlete may not directly call potential student-athletes, but can receive calls from potential student-athletes at the potential student-athlete’s expense.

Student-athletes are also prohibited from making statements to the media regarding the likelihood that the potential student-athlete will attend Daemen University, or the potential student-athlete’s ability. This includes social media. It is prohibited for student-athletes to publicize a recruit’s visit via social media.

Hosting Potential Student-Athletes

All student hosts must be a current student-athlete. An individual who is not competing in their first year of residence may not serve as a host to a recruit.

As a host, you are representing Daemen University , the Division of Athletics, and your team. It is expected that you abide by Daemen Student Code of Conduct, Team Rules, and the standards of both the East Coast Conference, Northeast Conference, and the NCAA.

The NCAA Bylaws and Daemen’s Division of Athletics rules and regulations require you to obey the following rules:

• The host is not to provide the visiting student with material gifts (i.e. campus gear) or purchase material gifts using the entertainment money.
• The host is not to transport the visiting student more than 30 miles from Daemen’s Campus, nor internationally.
• You may not utilize a vehicle for yourself or for the recruit that has been provided by Daemen University, or a booster.
• Do not allow in-person recruiting conversations to occur between the recruit and a booster of Daemen. If your group happens to see a booster, a greeting is allowed, but the host should not allow anything beyond a greeting.
• The host should not partake in any activities that go against Daemen University’s Student Code of Conduct, the rules of the division of athletics, and federal and state laws.
• A host may receive a maximum of $30 per day (no more than $60/2 days). The $30 is to be split in half for the host and the visitor and is intended to cover the costs of entertainment. If you are hosting more than one recruit, you will receive an additional $15 per day for each additional recruit.

• The host may receive complimentary meals, granted the host is accompanying the recruit.
• The host may receive complimentary admissions to Daemen University Athletics events, provided that the host is accompanying the recruit.
• Student-athletes cannot use any social media outlets to publicize a recruit’s visit to campus or their decision to enroll at Daemen.

As a host, you are representing your institution, conference, and NCAA. Your actions should reflect this positively. You must not engage in any activities that will comprise the integrity of all aforementioned entities, including yourself and the recruit. For example, you may not (under any circumstance) provide the recruit with alcoholic beverages, illegal drugs, or any opportunities to gamble. However, the following proposed activities are encouraged:

• Taking the recruit with you to sit in on a class
• Introducing the recruits to faculty and/or staff in their program of interest
• Take the recruit on a campus tour
• Introducing the recruits to division of athletics staff
• Taking the recruit to any special events happening on campus that week (i.e. festivals, movies, comedy nights, dance shows, game shows, etc. )

If a student-athlete is asked to host a potential student-athlete, the student-athlete will meet with the coach beforehand in order to discuss instructions. Additionally, the host is required to sign a student host instruction form by the start of the official visit. At the end of the official visit, the host is required to hand in all information (including receipts) relating to the entertainment of the recruit, and return any money that was not used for the recruit’s entertainment. This information should be turned in to the Compliance Office. If you have any questions about responsibilities as a student-host, please do not hesitate to contact the Compliance Office or your coach.

Eligibility

Before participating in any athletically related activities, all student-athletes must attend a compliance meeting and complete and sign NCAA documents related to the following topics each year.

There are three different qualification statuses determined by the NCAA that impact a student-athlete’s ability to participate as a freshman. These qualification statuses include

qualifiers, partial-qualifiers, and non-qualifiers. The qualification status of all student-athletes is determined by the NCAA Eligibility Center.

The NCAA defines a qualifier as someone who is a high school graduate and has presented the necessary academic qualifications to the NCAA Eligibility Center. Qualifiers are eligible for athletically related financial aid, practice, and competition during the first academic year in residency.

The NCAA defines a partial qualifier as a student who meets only some of the requirements of a qualifier upon high school graduation. A partial-qualifier is eligible for athletically related financial aid, and is allowed to participate in “on-campus” practices, but is not eligible to compete during their first academic year in residence.

In addition to the previously mentioned first year requirements for competing in athletics at Daemen University, student-athletes must maintain eligibility by doing the following:

1. Be a full-time matriculated student. Meaning that they must be enrolled in 12 credit hours every semester if they are an undergraduate student, and 9 credit hours per semester if the student-athlete is a graduate student. There will be a hold placed on the student-athlete’s account in order to prevent any changes to their course schedule during the semester and the possibility of becoming less than full time. The only exception is if a student-athlete is enrolled in their final semester and registered for less than a full-time program of studies or a graduate student taking course load at college deemed full-time. In this situation, the student-athlete must obtain certification from their academic advisor, which states that the student-athlete is taking all of the classes necessary for degree completion. In addition, the student-athlete must complete the Final Semester Exemption-Less Than Full Time form (from the Division of Athletics and Director of Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement)
2. Maintain academic good standing. Students that are classified in the undergraduate division must earn a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or above, while graduate student-athletes must earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. If a first semester freshman’s GPA is between 1.5 and 1.99, then they are still in good academic standing, as long as their cumulative GPA is at least a 2.0 after the second All students who do not meet the good standing regulation after their second semester are referred to the Committee on Academic Standards for review, and when appropriate, the Committee will assign mandated academic recovery plans, or required counseling under the University’s CARE program.
3. Maintain progress toward a baccalaureate or equivalent degree at Daemen University as determined by the Office of The chart below shows the NCAA Division II Progress-Toward-Degree Requirements.

Seasons of Competition

According to the NCAA, all Division II student-athletes have 10 semesters of full-time enrollment in order to participate as a student-athlete. Within these 10 semesters of full-time, student-athletes will have four years/seasons of athletic eligibility to compete in their sport.

Amateurism & Outside Competition

In order to compete at the collegiate level, student-athletes must maintain amateur status. Any student-athlete that uses their athletics skills for pay (i.e. prize money or prizes), signs a contract or commitment of any kind to play professional athletics, accepts any pay for promoting a commercial product or services, or allows their likeness to be used to promote a commercial product or service could jeopardize or forfeit their eligibility. The NCAA Eligibility Center will include an amateurism certification process that will be used to determine the amateur status of freshman and transfer prospective student-athletes. Prospective student-athletes may register with the Eligibility Center through the internet at the beginning of their sophomore year in high school. This process involves prospective student-athletes answering questions regarding their playing history.

Selected amateurism rules to be certified by amateurism certification include:

1. Contracts with professional teams
2. Salary for participating in athletics
3. Prize money above necessary expenses
4. Play with professionals
5. Tryouts, practice, or competition with a professional team
6. Benefits from an agent or prospective agent (nor the student athlete’s friends or family)
7. Agreement to be represented by an agent (either orally or in writing)
8. Organized competition rule

To expand on the topics listed above, this handbook will discuss participation in outside athletic activities. Participating in any outside teams anytime of the year (including summer) while being a member of a college athletics team can jeopardize a student athlete’s eligibility. There are specific rules about when and if you can compete on an outside team. Therefore, if you are interested in competing on an outside team or in outside competition you must first discuss the situation with your coach and the Compliance Office. No outside competition or participation may take place without you first completing an “Outside Competition” workflow in ARMS.

Countable Athletically Related Activities

According to the NCAA, the time that student-athletes spend in practice, competition and preparing for competition is known as Countable Athletically Related Activities (CARA).

Student-athletes should be aware that the NCAA Division II prohibits them from participating in no more than 20 hours of CARA each week when in season. In addition, the student-athlete most have at least one day off entirely within a seven-day period.

When out of season, student-athletes are only to participate in 8 hours of CARA a week, and receive two days off a week. It is important to note that out of the 8 hours of CARA, only 4 of those hours may involve full team activities, skill instruction, or video review.

In order to ensure that athletic teams are abiding by NCAA regulations, the Compliance Office will ask student-athletes to review the weekly CARA log that coaches are required to submit through ARMS. These student-athletes will be selected at random and will have 7 days to complete the task. The purpose of this activity is to ensure that all involved in CARA are held accountable to the rule.

If you ever have a question or concern about your practice activities please contact the Compliance Office.

Below are a few examples of activities that do count and do not count:

Countable Athletically Related Activities

• Practices (not more than four hours per day).
• Athletics meetings with a coach initiated or required by a coach (e.g. end of season individual meetings).
• Competition (and associated activities, regardless of their length, count as three hours). [Note: No countable athletically related activities may occur after the competition.]
• Field, floor, or on-court activity.
• Setting up offensive and defensive alignment.
• On-court or on-field activities called by any member of the team and confined primarily to members of that team.
• Required weight-training and conditioning activities.
• Required participation in camps/clinics.
• Visiting the competition site in the sports of cross country, golf, and skiing.
• Participation outside the regular season in individual skill-related instructional activities with a  member of the coaching staff.
• Discussion or review of game films.
• Participation in a physical activity class for student-athletes only and taught by a member of the athletics staff (e.g. coach).

Noncountable Athletically Related Activities

• Compliance meetings.
• Meetings with a coach initiated by the student-athlete (as long as no countable activities occur).
• Drug/alcohol educational meetings or CHAMPS/Life Skills meetings.
• Study hall, tutoring, or academic meetings.
• Student-athlete advisory committee/Captain’s Council meetings.
• Voluntary weight training not conducted by a coach or staff member.
• Voluntary sport-related activities (e.g., initiated by student-athlete, no attendance taken, no coach present).
• Traveling to and from the site of competition (as long as no countable activities occur).
• Training room activities (e.g., treatment, taping), rehabilitation activities and medical examinations.
• Recruiting activities (e.g., student host).
• Training table meals.
• Attending banquets (e.g., awards of postseason banquets)
• Fundraising activities or public relations/promotional activities and community service projects.

Transfers

Sometimes students have an interest in transferring to another school. If you are interested in transferring to another school there are a number of steps you need to follow:

• The student-athlete must provide notification of intent to explore transfer opportunities in writing (e.g., email) to the Compliance Office
• Student-Athlete will then need to schedule a time to meet with the Compliance Office to discuss implications of transferring from Daemen (e.g., eligibility, athletic scholarship).
• Student-Athlete is then advised to discuss this decision with their head coach before being placed on portal (in event they have not previously discussed decision with their coach)
• Student-Athlete will need to complete a notification for transfer form in which information will be used to populate in the transfer
• Compliance Office will enter students’ information into the NCAA transfer portal within two business days following official notification of transfer form completion by Student-Athlete.

• If a current student-athlete requests to be placed in the transfer portal, they are forfeiting themselves as a Daemen Student athlete and will not long be able to participate with the team and are not guaranteed athletic scholarship renewal for the following academic If the student-athlete decides not to transfer and removes themself from the transfer portal, they will be able to return to all team activities.

STUDENT-ATHLETE WELFARE AND EXPECTATIONS

Code of Ethics

Student-Athletes are expected to know and follow the rules and regulations of ethical conduct established by the following entities:

• National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
  • Student-athletes are subject to the rules and regulations of the NCAA governing unsportsmanlike behavior, non-therapeutic drug use, gambling and bribery, as well as other forms of misconduct.
• Daemen University
  • All student-athletes are subject to the Code of Student Conduct. A student who is charged with a violation of the Code for general misconduct may be referred to a hearing panel of the committee on Student Conduct for possible disciplinary action. Students who have reason to believe that they are being unjustly accused and/or disciplined by a University employee may contact the office of the Dean of Students. The Student Code of Conduct may be found here: Daemen Student Handbook

• Division of Athletics
  • Student-athletes must abide by all rules and guidelines set forth in this handbook and by the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct. In addition, team rules may be established by each individual sport’s Head Coach and his/her staff within parameters set by the Director of Athletics, the Division of Athletics and the The Head Coach informs team members of the established team and training rules at the beginning of the academic year.
• Law Enforcement
  • When a student-athlete violates a local, state or federal law and the misconduct involves a violent action, drugs and/or a felony charge, the student-athlete may be suspended from participation in intercollegiate athletics until the charges have been addressed by the legal system.

Suspension, Dismissal from Team, or Disciplinary Action

Participation on an intercollegiate athletics team at Daemen University is a privilege. This handbook, along with the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct, outlines the expectations for how you will represent yourself, your team, and Daemen University. This includes the expectation that you will not engage in behavior that is detrimental to the image of your team, the division of athletics and/or Daemen University. If you engage in behavior that, in the discretion of the head coach or members of the Daemen University Athletics Department Administration, is determined to be detrimental to the Daemen University Division of Athletics or to your specific team, then you may be suspended or dismissed from the team and your athletics financial aid may be canceled. Likewise, if a student-athlete is found to be in violation of ECC, NEC, or NCAA policy, the penalty imposed depends upon the severity of the offense and may include probation, dismissal from the team, cancellation or gradation of grant-in-aid, and/or dismissal from the University.

Social Media Use

All student-athletes are permitted to use social media. However, they must keep the following things in mind in order to exercise good judgment and uphold a positive image before posting on social media:

• You are an ambassador of Daemen University, the ECC, NEC, and the NCAA. Think of the audience of your social media profile and who will be viewing it due to your status as a student-athlete (i.e. fans, their children, or the surrounding local community).
• You must not post any content that is offensive, inappropriate, or in violation of the local/state/federal law, the NCAA, the Daemen Division of Athletics policies or the Daemen University student code of conduct (i.e. photos, video, posts, or comments that depict the use of any drugs or alcohol, unsportsmanlike content, derogatory or offensive language, or violent activities).
• If you would not want your future boss, family member, faculty, or media to see what you have posted, do not post it! Even if you delete the post, the Internet is permanent.
• Do not post any personal or sensitive information, such as your address, email, phone number, future schedules, or eligibility.
• Consider setting your privacy settings so that only your friends can view your profile.

Surveys

Student-athletes are surveyed every year about their experience as a student-athlete at Daemen University. The purpose of these surveys and interviews is to provide feedback for the division of athletics in order to best evaluate the student-athlete experience and well-being.

All senior student-athletes will receive an exit interview survey after the completion of their season and/or athletic eligibility at Daemen University. The division of athletics will also request an in person interview.

Student-Athlete Hazing

As an NCAA member institution, Daemen University has a shared responsibility to protect the health and safety of all student-athletes. In that regard, Daemen University strictly prohibits hazing, which is a physical, mental, emotional, or psychological act, voluntarily or involuntarily, to anything that may abuse, mistreat, degrade, humiliate, harass or intimidate the person. In addition, it is an act that may compromise the inherent dignity of the person or create a substantial risk of injury to any person. Lastly, hazing is when one member of a team compels another member to participate in any activity that is against college policy or state/federal law.

Student-athletes will not conspire to engage in any hazing activity, participate in hazing or commit an act that causes or is likely to cause bodily danger, physical harm, personal degradation or disgrace, or that results in mental harm to anyone.

Hazing Consequences

• Hazing could cause your team’s season to be cancelled.
• Hazing could cause your eligibility to be taken away.
• Hazing could cause you to get arrested, because it is against the law in New York.

Drugs and Alcohol

Daemen University is committed to the health and wellness of student-athletes and providing a safe environment for the student athletes to compete. The possession, distribution, or the use of illegal and controlled substances is prohibited by Daemen University . For this reason, Daemen University educates the student-athletes about the use of drugs at the beginning of every academic year. At this time, student-athletes will be given a copy of the full drug policy and disciplinary actions to be followed after a positive drug test. This policy represents Daemen University’s drug education and testing policy, and is different than the policy of the NCAA. However, it is expected that you follow the policy of both the NCAA and Daemen University. For more information regarding the NCAA’s policy on drugs, go to www.ncaa.org or view the 2024 – 2025 NCAA Banned Drugs list on the next page.

In addition to the illegal use of drugs, the institution also prohibits the illegal possession, use, or distribution of alcohol by students and employees. Additionally, any action that recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health, or involves the forced consumption of alcohol for the purpose of initiation or affiliation with any organization.

It should also be noted that the legal drinking age for New York State is 21 years old. Any person that is charged with underage drinking is in threat to legal charges and punishments. In addition, it is also against the law in New York State to sell or give away alcohol to anyone under the age of 21, operate a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs and alcohol, and misrepresent one’s  age for the purpose of purchasing, or consuming alcohol.

According to the NCAA, all student-athletes must sign a drug testing consent form at the beginning of each academic year in order to partake in any athletically related activities. This form allows the institution and the NCAA to test student-athletes for drug usage. If the student-athlete does not sign the drug testing consent form, then they will be ineligible to compete.

According to NCAA policies, a student-athlete who tests positive for drug use will be charged with a loss of a minimum of one season of competition in all sports if their season has not started yet. If their season has started, they will miss the equivalent to one full season. In addition, the student-athlete will remain ineligible until the student-athlete retests negative and they are reinstated by the NCAA Eligibility Committee.

If the student-athlete tests negative a second time then they will lose all of their remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in sports. It is important to note that refusal to take an NCAA drug test is the same as a positive drug test.

NCAA Banned Substances

Updated July 8, 2024

Tobacco Products

According to the NCAA by-law 11.1.5 and 17.1.9, student-athletes shall not use or be in possession of tobacco products during any contest, practice, trip, or at any other official team or department activity. A student-athlete who uses tobacco products during any of these activities will be disqualified for the remainder of the activity.

NCAA Nutritional/Dietary Supplements Warning:

Before consuming any dietary supplements, it is important to review the product with the appropriate or designated athletics department staff. There are no NCAA approved supplement products. This is important because dietary supplements, including vitamins and minerals, may cause positive drug tests, which can cause student-athletes to lose eligibility. For this reason, it is essential that you check with your athletics department before using a supplement. Please check with the designated athletic training staff before using any substance.

 Harassment

Daemen University has a number of policies and procedures that are in place to prevent bullying and harassment at the institution. The purpose of these policies is to protect the safety and both physical and mental health of students, faculty, staff, and visitors on campus, and to support the institutions mission. Student-athletes must abide by the institution’s policies related to harassment. This means that student-athletes are prohibited from engaging in violent acts including assault on a person or property, hate crimes, hazing, stalking, sexual violence, bullying or any other conduct prohibited by University policy and/or law.

Next, this handbook will further discuss sexual harassment as a form of harassment. The university defines sexual harassment as an unwelcome sexual advance, request of sexual favors, and any other form of verbal or physical misconduct of any nature when this misconduct is contingent on the following:

1. Submission of such conduct is either explicitly or implicitly a requirement for education or sports teams.
2. Submission to or denial of such conduct is a determinant of academic or athletic decisions impacting the individual.
3. Such conduct substantially interferes with the individual’s academic or athletic performance, or creates a hostile, or uncomfortable work environment.

Sexual harassment is illegal under both state and federal law. Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX may be directed to the Title IX designee.

In addition to sexual harassment, there are a number of other forms of harassment that are deemed unlawful by New York State, and therefore goes against the institutions Code of Conduct. Unlawful harassment is defined as verbal or physical conduct, which degrades or shows hostility or aversion to an individual because of his or her race, color, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, national origin, marital status, veteran status, disability, genetic predisposition, carrier status, or status as a victim of domestic violence, or that of his or her relatives, friends, or associates, and which:

1. Creates a hostile or threatening work and educational environment.
2. Has the purpose or effect of impacting one’s performance.
3. Otherwise impacts the individual’s employment or educational opportunities.

Students, applicants, and employees are encouraged to promptly report any conduct that they believe violates the institution’s harassment policy. If the University does not know about the conduct, it cannot act. Complaints or inquiries should be made confidentially to the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs, who is the University’s Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Officer. Alternatively, you may initially discuss the matter with any other employee of the University, or involve any other person to help you in bringing your complaint forward, so long as your complaint is promptly brought to the attention of the Associate Vice President. The matter must always be reported to the Associate Vice President because of the need for consistency and centralized decision-making in the application of this policy.

Complaints will be handled pursuant to the Grievance Procedure in Discrimination and Harassment Cases. Complaints and inquiries will be kept confidential to the extent practicable, consistent with the need to conduct an adequate investigation. Any employee or student who is found to have violated this policy will be subjected to appropriate disciplinary measures up to and including termination or expulsion.

Please do not allow conduct that may violate this policy to continue unreported. It is extremely important that this be reported so that the University can act to stop such conduct at the earliest possible time.

If an individual is apprehensive about reporting any form of harassment at the institution, the individual should be mindful of the retaliation policy on campus. Retaliation against students, applicants, or employees for exercising their rights under this policy is also strictly prohibited and will not be tolerated. This includes retaliation for inquiring about one’s rights, or for making an honest complaint of a violation or possible violation, or for truthfully assisting in a complaint investigation. Division of Athletics staff are required to report to the Office of Student Affairs any information regarding the above issues.

Sportsmanship

The NCAA states their view on sportsmanship through their Principle of Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct, which states that student-athletes “…should adhere to such fundamental values as respect, fairness, civility, honesty and responsibility. These values should be manifest in not only the athletics participation but also in the broad spectrum of activities affecting the athletics program.”

The NCAA, ECC, NEC, and Daemen Athletics communities are committed to creating a positive athletic environment for student-athletes, coaches, staff, referees, and spectators. Please understand that as a student-athlete you are serving a model for fans, spectators, students, community members, and others regarding respectful and sportsmanlike behavior.

The previously mentioned organizations expect and promote student-athletes, spectators, team members, and university officials to continually treat each other with respect and civility. Trash talking, baiting, taunting, sexual, racial or profane language, celebration that humiliates opponents, fighting or attempts to injure are a few examples are behaviors that are prohibited. In addition, coaches are to define the actions that constitute inappropriate conduct, and suggest ways to avoid such behaviors similar the actions previously mentioned. Student-Athletes are encouraged to review the Student-Athlete Code of Conduct for more examples are unacceptable behaviors. If an individual does partake in the unsportsmanlike acts, they will face a penalty imposed by their coach, Daemen University, ECC, NEC, and/or NCAA.

Gambling and Bribery

Daemen University and the Division of Athletics have developed and implemented a comprehensive educational program which instructs the student-athlete on the nature and prevalence of intercollegiate gambling and bribery, as well as the risks involved for the individual and for the entire University. However, student-athletes are responsible for the following:

• Reporting any form of gambling or bribery;
• Understanding what constitutes gambling and bribery activities;
• Contacting the coach or the Compliance office with any questions concerning sports gambling or bribery; and
• Being aware of the disciplinary action that can result.

As per the NCAA, student-athletes and university officials may not do the following in regard to gambling and bribery:

1. Provide information to individuals regarding intercollegiate athletic activities or events.
2. Solicit or accept a bet on any athletic team, including professional teams and collegiate teams.
3. Solicit or accept any tangible good that holds value because of one’s athletic ability.
4. Participate in any gambling activity involving athletics with a bookmaker, parlay card, or any other method involved in organized gambling.

Student-athletes who violate the rules face the following sanctions:

A student-athlete who engages in activities designed to influence the result of an athletic competition, or in an effort to influence the win-loss margins, or partakes in the above-mentioned activities, can permanently lose all remaining regular-season and postseason eligibility in all sports. Student-athletes can lose eligibility for a minimum of one year from the date of the institution’s determination that the violation has occurred.

Reporting

Student-athletes must report their own violations and/or the violations of others. Reports should be made to the Director of Athletics or the Assistant Athletic Director for Compliance.

For example, a student-athlete must self-report his or her own underage drinking, the underage drinking of another student-athlete, and the planning of a party where drinking by student- athletes in-season will likely occur.

This reporting obligation is serious. Failure to report a violation by a student-athlete is an independent violation of this Code.

Disciplinary Process and Sanctions

Daemen Athletics disciplinary process is independent of, and supplements, the University judicial process. Sanctions levied by Daemen Athletics may occur over and above those levied by the Dean of Students Office. Sanctions will vary depending on the type and circumstances of the violation but may without limitation include loss of Athletics eligibility and/or scholarship.

When Daemen Athletics becomes aware of an alleged violation of this Code of Conduct, the Director of Athletics or her/his designee will take reasonable steps to verify the validity, reliability, and accuracy of the report. These steps may include interviews of students and employees, or of non-University persons having knowledge of relevant facts; examination of documents; and other steps necessary for the Director of Athletics to determine the merits of the report.

Upon the Director’s satisfaction that they have sufficient information to proceed, sanctions, if applicable, shall be issued. At that time, any previous violations of the Code, or any other Standards of Conduct, shall be a factor in determining the gravity of the violation, and the appropriate sanction.

Possible sanctions include, but are not limited to:

1. Warning. The issuance of a written warning.
2. Probation. Special status with conditions imposed for a limited time.
3. Community Service. As required by the Athletic Director.
4. Restitution. Payment for damaged property.
5. Temporary Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from some or all Daemen Athletics activities, including athletic participation in team events, for a limited period of time.
6. Suspension. Removal of a student-athlete from some or all Daemen Athletics activities, including athletic participation in team events, for a specified period of no less than one season.
7. Expulsion. Permanent removal from a team and/or Daemen Athletics activities.
8. Withdrawal of Financial Aid. Termination of athletic-related financial aid at first opportunity allowable by NCAA/ECC/NEC regulations.

Student Dispute Resolution Procedures

• Daemen University is committed to serving its students effectively and responsively. Students with questions or complaints should communicate directly with the department or office concerned, with a view to resolving the issue as expeditiously as possible.

• Ordinarily, disputes with faculty members should be brought to the attention of the chair of the faculty member’s department or, if the dispute involves the chair, to the divisional dean. A student may choose to use the online Bias Report Form, if pertinent, for assistance in resolution. Disputes concerning grades (including determinations of academic dishonesty) are handled exclusively in accordance with the Grade Appeal Procedure found in the University Catalog and the Student Handbook.

• Disputes with non-faculty employees should be brought to the attention of the employee’s supervisor for review and Disputes between students that do not fall into one of the above-mentioned categories should be brought to the attention of the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students.

• Students at the university level, regardless of age, have both the right and responsibility to represent themselves in all matters concerning their education. This includes their ongoing development of those life skills necessary to functioning as capable and successful adults in the workplace and beyond. As such, the direct involvement of parents or other personal advocates in dispute resolution at the university level is generally considered inappropriate.

• Students wishing to discuss an issue concerning a University employee are welcomed and encouraged to speak with an advisor in the Student Success Center (Research & Information Commons, first floor). Advisors can be valuable sounding boards who, while not “taking sides,” can help students clarify issues, explain any pertinent policies or procedures, and give supportive guidance on the student’s options.

• Typically, in cases where the dispute potentially includes a violation of the Student Code of Conduct, the situation will be addressed via the procedures set forth in this handbook under the Conduct Review Procedures.

Conduct Review Process

Any member of the University community may initiate the conduct review process against any student for alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct generally within two to three months of the alleged violation(s) by submitting a complaint in written form to the Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs & Dean of Students (DOS), or designee. Residence Life and Campus Safety staff will thoroughly investigate the incident and complete an incident report, which will be provided to their supervisor, after addressing a violation. Charges filed by all other members of the community must be prepared in writing and will be directed to the DOS (or designee). Alleged violations of the Student Code of Conduct may be adjudicated by one of three types of conduct review body on campus, depending upon the nature and seriousness of the charges (see below for levels of violations), the location of the event, and/or the number of students involved:

• Residence Life staff generally address lower-level violations by residents living within their respective residence areas;
• Professional staff members of the Division of Student Affairs generally address intermediate-level violations and cases involving commuter students or multiple residents from different living areas;
• The Campus Standards Board, consisting of students, faculty, and/or administrators generally conducts hearings to address violations of the most serious nature that have the potential to result in University suspension or expulsion. The Board is advised by the DOS, who appoints a trained administrator to serve as the chair.

There are two exceptions to the above-stated procedures. With respect to non-academic matters, exceptions to this policy may be made by the DOS, at their discretion. With respect to academic dishonesty, faculty should follow policies as outlined in the Academic Policies Section of this Handbook.

When an incident is reported to the University, either through a University official or a student, the University will review the incident to determine if a potential violation of the Student Code of Conduct occurred. If there is insufficient information from that incident report, the DOS (or designee) may request that an investigation occur in order to determine whether there is enough information to warrant charges and a review by a conduct review body. While an investigation occurs, by an official appointed by the DOS (or designee), interim measures may be implemented, as outlined further in this section.

Audio recordings of meetings with individuals who may have relevant information about the incident may be made by the University official conducting the investigation. Information collected through an investigation, including audio recordings, witness and complainant statements, etc., are confidential and generally, are not available for review by any party during the investigation process, except at the discretion of the DOS (or designee).

It is at the discretion of the DOS (or their designee) to determine whether or not information provided through the investigation is sufficient to warrant either a formal review by a conduct review body or an informal resolution. Typically, complainant(s) will be notified of the conclusion of the investigation and a resolution, but may not be informed of the outcome and/or the resulting sanctions. The exception to this is in the case of alleged sexual violence cases.

DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION; NON-DISCRIMINATION

Diversity and Inclusion

Daemen University sustains foundations of a diverse and inclusive culture across dimensions of diversity including but not limited to age, race, sex, class, national origin, creed, educational background, religion, gender identity, disability, gender expression, geographical location, income, marital status, parental status, sexual orientation and work experiences.

Non- Discrimination

It is the policy of Daemen University not to discriminate on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, in its educational programs, athletic programs, other activities or employment policies as required by Title IX of the 1972 Education Amendments and other applicable anti-discrimination laws.

TRANSPORTATION

Practice/Home Game Travel and Transportation

Daemen University requires all student-athletes to use Daemen owned/leased vehicles to travel to and from off-campus practice facilities and home games.

If the student-athlete has a class that will make them have to leave early or arrive late for practice, then they are welcome to drive their own vehicle to the off-campus venue, provided they have completed and received approval of class conflict transportation waiver. When driving their own vehicle, the student-athlete is taking full responsibility and liability for themselves.

Additionally, they cannot take passengers unless approved through compliance.

Away Game Travel and Transportation

All travel accommodations are the responsibility of the team’s coach, with the assistance of the Daemen Athletics Assistant Athletic Director of Travel Operations..

The distance of the away game will determine the mode of transportation used to the away game.

• When the team uses airline travel, it is required that the coach organizes ground travel to and from the airport, as well as ground travel while at the destination.
• Coach buses can be utilized when the trip is more than 4 hours one The bus company will provide a driver and replacement driver as per DOT regulation.
• Passenger vans will be utilized preferably for trips less than four hours one. If the coach would like to use a passenger van for a trip that is more than four hours one way, then it needs to be approved by the Director of Athletics. If approved to utilize a passenger vehicle for a trip that is more than four hours, the college must provide a non-student-athlete relief driver for each van.

It is strongly encouraged that all student-athletes utilize the transportation that is provided by the institution to and from away games. The only exception is if the departure or arrival time disrupts their academic schedule, then they are capable of using their own vehicles. If the student-athlete does decide to use their own vehicle as their mode of transportation to or from an away game, they are accepting full responsibility and liability for themselves and other passengers.

ACADEMICS

Athletics Missed Class Time Policy and Procedures

Student-athletes are required to provide their faculty members with a missed class time letter made for them by the Division of Athletics. It is also the responsibility of the student-athlete to follow up with their faculty before classes they will miss.

It should be noted that the Director of Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement will do their best to assist you in scheduling your classes so there are not any conflicts between your academic and athletic schedules. However, sometimes classes will conflict with practice or competition. It is a NCAA violation for a student-athlete to miss class for any practice activities or team activities.

Procedure

• It is the responsibility of the Head Coach to schedule their practices during a time that does not conflict with the academic schedules of their student-athletes. If the practice time conflicts with an academic obligation of the student-athlete, the student athlete is required to go to class, not practice.
• The Compliance Office is responsible for educating student-athletes on the NCAA regulations.

NCAA Bylaw 17.1.6 discusses student-athletes missing classes due to athletically related activities, and is the basis for Daemen’s Missed Class Time Procedure.

• Student-athletes are not required to attend practice that results in missed schedule class time or final Activities that student-athletes are excused from for class include practice and workouts.
• Recruiting and media requests may not interfere with the student-athletes academics.
• For home competitions, student-athletes may not be excused from any class time more than two hours before game time.
• For weekday away games with same day travel, scheduled departure should not be any more than the amount of time that it takes to drive to the destination plus an additional 90 minutes. For example, if it takes 1 hour to drive to an away game and the game starts at 2:30 pm, then the team should not depart from Daemen until Noon.
• For away competitions with overnight travel, the team should not depart more than 30 hours before the competition.
• Before the start of classes or the start of competition, whichever date is first, the Director of Student-Athlete Success will provide Missed Class Time Letters per sport for student-athletes to provide for their instructors. The letters list the date and time of the competition, the date and time that the student-athlete is required to report to the facility for competition, and when the student-athlete will return.
• After the student-athlete gives the Missed Class Time Letter to their instructor, the student-athlete needs to receive a signature from each instructor receiving the letter on the receipt log, which is provided by the Student-Success Office.

• Student-athletes are required to make up any assignments missed, on time or in advance. Additionally, they are responsible for receiving any information they missed in class. If the student-athlete misses a graded in class assignment, the student-athlete is to contact their instructor before their missed class to discuss making up the assignment. Possible solutions involve completing the assignment early or working with FAR to complete the assignment when on the road.
• Head coaches will not schedule away from home competitions that require missed class time during the first week of classes, final exam period, or the weekend before final exams. Student-athletes need to confirm the dates of final exams at least one month before the last day of classes and notify FAR if there are any conflicts.

Athletics Study Table Policy and Procedures

The Director of Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement will determine the required study hours. Additionally, they will track study hours once a week and report any deficiencies to the student-athletes’ head coach.

All freshman and transfer student-athletes are required to attend study hall for their first semester at Daemen University. Additionally, student-athletes may be required to attend study hall or study table if their GPA is below 2. 75, if they appear on the CARE report, are deemed an “at risk” student, are academically ineligible to compete, or are required by their coaches.

Study hall and study table GPA breakdown:

Semester GPA’s

• 2.30 – 2.74 – 4 Hours Study Table or Study Hall
• Below 2.30, Freshmen, Transfers – 6 Hours Study Hall only

If a student-athlete sees an academic coach or tutor, then these hours can be counted toward study hours. In order for these hours to be counted, the student-athlete must have the Academic Coach sign an Academic Coaching Tracking Form. Forms must be turned into the Director of Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement by the next business day. Study session attendance will be counted toward your study table hours. For more information regarding academic coaching please see the list of support services in the following sections.

If a graduate student does not meet the good standing regulation after their second semester, or they are referred to the Committee on Academic Standards for review, the Committee will assign mandated academic recovery plans, or required counseling under the University CARE program. This will be in addition to the completion of a specified amount of study hours per the discretion of the Director of Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement.

Study Hour Rules and Regulations Study Hall

Study Hall is proctored by coaches in a designated space announced at the beginning of each semester on Sunday’s, Monday’s and Tuesday’s. You are required upon arrival to sign in. Failure to do so will result in hours not counting.

• You are NOT TO BE LATE study hall starts at 7:00pm Sunday, Monday, and Tuesdays.
• You MAY NOT LEAVE EARLY.
• Printing must be done before or after Study Hall.
• You are not to go to 78 West, your room, or Yurtchuck while in Study Hall.
• This is a silent study; you are to only be working individually unless granted permission by the proctor.
• Laptops are to be used for academic purposes. NOT SOCIAL MEDIA/ WATCHING MOVIES/ or VIDEO CLIPS using social media will result in dismissal and hours not counting.

Study Table

Study Table is located in the Student-Athlete Academic Center in Duns Scotus. Upon arrival please log in to the laptop located in the corner of the Study Table space.

• You may not sign in and leave the study table area. This area is constantly being monitored.
• Study Table is Monday- Thursday 8:30am- 4:30pm. Hours outside of these will NOT count towards your study table requirements unless logged in Study Hall.
• Athletes who have travel conflicts may complete Study Hall hours in Study Table with permission from the Director of Student Athlete Success.
• You are permitted to eat in Study Table as long as you are getting work done and not just eating. (Also, please clean up any messes after).
• ALL ATHLETES can use Study Table so long as those using the area are not disrupting or distracting those completing hours.

• Study Table and Study Hall are for ATHLETES ONLY no significant others, friends, etc….

The study table week starts on Monday and ends on Thursday evening each week. If you are completing your study table hours, you are to sign in and out. In addition, it is expected that you abide by the following rules, or will be subject to dismissal from the Student-Athlete Academic Center and reported to your coach.

It is understood that extreme circumstances may prevent student-athletes from completing study table hours. If these occur, the student-athlete must meet with the Director of Student Athlete Success to discuss an action plan. **Coaches and Assistant Coaches can proctor up to 4 hours of study hours Sunday-Thursday that may count towards athlete’s study hours THAT TRAVEL WEEK.

Cheerleading

Cheer members are required to follow the rules and regulations put forth by the coaching staff and the following for study hall:

Minimum of 2.5gpa and full time status

Below 2.5gpa = 6 hours of study hall

2.5-3.0gpa = 4 hours of study hours

3.0gpa and higher = Zero hours

Academic Honesty

Ethical behavior is an essential part of the University experience. By developing moral standards while at Daemen, student-athletes are preparing for the difficult decisions that they will confront later in their lives. Additionally, honesty and trust are necessary for assessment of learning.

Copying, cutting and pasting, plagiarizing, fixing grades, cheating on an exam, and submitting fraudulent work are just a few of the types of “academic dishonesty” that can be disciplined both under the University’s academic honesty policy, and this Code. Such disciplinary action may range from loss of grade for report and/or withdrawal from that course, suspension from team, suspension and/or dismissal from Daemen University. If you are struggling with academics, contact your coach or the Director of Student-Athlete Success.

Daemen Athletics cannot tolerate academic dishonesty in any form.

Daemen University full academic honesty policy can be found at http://my.daemen.edu/academics/coursecatalog/daemen-overview/academic-regulations-standards/

Academic Support Services

There are a number of academic support services across campus and within the Division of Athletics that aid in students’ success in and out of the classroom. What follows is a list of resources available across campus:

Learning Center:

Free academic coaching is available to all Daemen students in most academic subjects. Coaches are experienced students who have been recommended by instructors and who complete a training program. Coaches assist students with study techniques and learning strategies, as well as course content. Peer Led Team Learning (PLTL) is an academic support, which provides sessions with a PLTL Leader for selected courses on campus. The PLTL Leader, who has already successfully completed the class, meets with students during regularly scheduled sessions to facilitate team/group practice and application of course information. Coaching is available to English as a Second Language ESL students at the Learning Center. Students meet to work on writing assignments from courses. Students with documented disabilities meet with the Assistant Coordinator of the Learning Center to arrange accommodations such as note-takers, screen readers, sign language interpreters, and approved testing accommodations. (Documentation of disabilities should be submitted to the University’s 504/ADA Coordinator, the Associate Dean of the University, Room 102, Duns Scotus Hall, for authorization of accommodations.)

Students are encouraged to meet with The Learning Center Coordinator to discuss study skills information such as strategies for overcoming academic difficulties. At the Learning Center, you will find help with time management, techniques for memory improvement, strategies for test taking, and information about your personal learning style.

The Learning Center (x8228) is located on the Main Street end of the first floor of the RIC as part of Academic Support Services.

 MGT 101- First-Year Student-Athlete Experience:

This course is offered during the fall semester of each academic year to both freshman and transfer student-athletes, and is traditionally taught by the Student-Athlete Success and Community Engagement Coordinator. MGT 101 is a seminar style course, but includes lectures, guest presentations, peer-to-peer presentations, reading of relevant literature, as well as assignments that will assess the learning of student-athletes on relevant topics.

 Academic Advisors:

Every student at Daemen University is assigned to a Faculty Advisor who will guide students in achieving their goals both inside of the classroom and outside of the classroom. These Faculty Advisors are responsible for assisting students in scheduling their courses each semester, in the selection of electives that will fulfill degree requirements, as well career goals.

In addition to having Faculty Advisors, students are encouraged to utilize Academic Support Services that are located in the RIC. Similarly to the Faculty Advisors, the Academic Advisors can assist students with scheduling, and tracking of degree requirements.

Academic Computing Services:

Students of Daemen University are provided with a wide array of information technologies. The Research and Information Commons (RIC) as well as the Business Building house several computing facilities consisting of current and well-maintained workstations. These facilities provide useful academic software, support and a secure Internet connection. They are also open convenient hours to accommodate academic needs. Academic departments including animation, graphic design, mathematics, natural sciences, and psychology, maintain computer laboratories and stand-alone computer systems with specialized software and peripherals. Most buildings on- campus now offers wireless access.

Workstations in the RIC and Business Building are available to all students and open for a total of 175 hours per week during the spring and fall semesters. For more information, or for the Academic Computer Services hours, go to https://www.daemen.edu/computing.

Accessibility Services:

Daemen University is committed to providing equal access and a welcoming environment for students with disabilities. To request disability-related accommodations contact Accessibility Services via email at access@daemen.edu, by phone at 716-839-8228, or in person at the Student Success Center on the first floor of the Research and Information Commons (RIC). Information on documentation guidelines and disability services can be found on the website at http://www.daemen.edu/offices/disability. The Learning Center (see below) provides services to students with disabilities.

Counseling Services:

The counselors of Daemen University serve the psychological well-being of the Daemen University community so that students may be successful academically, ethically, spiritually, and personally. All registered Daemen students are eligible to attend up to 15 sessions per academic year free of charge. Services provided include: individual counseling, group counseling, couples counseling (all participants must be Daemen students), mediation, and consultation.

All counseling sessions are confidential. Your privacy and trust are important to us and are protected by state laws and professional ethical standards. No information can be released without your written authorization. However, confidentiality is legally limited. Your counselor will speak with you about the limits of confidentiality when you first meet. Feel free to ask your counselor any questions or express any concerns you may have about confidentiality.

All counseling appointments take place in the Chip Center, which is housed in the Yurtchuck Center, first floor, room 117. To schedule an appointment, please contact the CHIP Center. via this link:
https://www.daemen.edu/student-life/student-services/counseling-services

Career Services:

The Career Services office helps students explore career options and provides student with helpful guidance in program decisions making, career planning, graduate school options, résumé writing, internships, and jobs. Located in Yurtchuck Campus Center First Floor or visit daemen.edu/career/ to view the list of services offered.

LEADS:

Daemen University’s LEADS Center serves as a clearinghouse for students aspiring to realize and develop their leadership skills. The program affords Daemen students the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to bring purpose, meaning, and integrity into their lives, and consequently, the lives of others. For more information and a list of LEADS programs visit daemen.edu/LEADS/

Health Services:

Connects students with quality care in the event of illness or injury. Partners with qualified community health organizations to provide health education. Prepares students to be their own health advocates and inform consumers of appropriate health care services. Located in the CHIP Center in Wick Campus Center. For list of the services visit: https://www.daemen.edu/student-life/student-services/daemen-college-health-services

Faculty Athletic Representative

The Faculty-Athletic Representative (FAR) at Daemen University plays a vital role in fostering the relationship between intercollegiate athletics and higher education. FARs both advocate for student-athletes’ well-being and oversee the academic integrity of Daemen Athletics. The FAR here at Daemen University is Dr. Carol Bartlo Associate Professor in the Modern Languages Department. Per the ECC rules, the following are the responsibility of the Faculty-Athletic Rep.

• Act as the key academic interests of the institution as it relates to the academic performance and educational aspects of its student-athletes.
• Review and evaluate academic and general support services for student-athletes and student-athlete welfare.
• Maintain communication with designated members of senior campus administration and Athletic Director on a regular basis.
• Be available to explain the role of the FAR and service as conduit between the faculty and the athletic department as well as the disseminator of information regarding athletics to faculty members.
• Meet at least one time per semester with the Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) to review issues, concerns, and developments.
• Assist student-athletes with class conflict situation.
• Be involved in all investigations of alleged or self reported violations of NCAA rules and assist in determining the appropriate action in response to alleged violations.
• Serve on the Compliance Committee and Athletic Advisory Board as needed.
• Vote on designated ECC awards as needed.
• Review and participate in the administration of NCAA and conference forms and application.

• Support the activities of the Assistant AD for Compliance and the Director of Student-Athlete Success.
• Attend annual ECC FAR meetings.
• Assist in the determination and/or certification of student-athlete’s eligibility (academic and general) under NCAA, conference, and institutional rules.
• Attend FAR conferences and workshops as permitted for the ECC and NCAA.

Finances

Student-Athlete Employment

The Compliance Office will review NCAA regulations governing student-athlete employment, during the mandatory compliance student-athlete meeting at the beginning of each semester. Following these meetings, the steps below must be taken for the student-athlete to disclose their employment for the entire year.

1. The student-athlete must complete a Student-Athlete Employment Form, provided at the Fall Compliance Check in and Spring Compliance check out meetings. If there are any changes to a student-athletes’ employment status, one can find the Student-Athlete Form on the compliance website. The student-athlete must affirm their understanding of the terms outlined in the Student-Athlete Employment Form and their intent to adhere to its provisions.
2. The Compliance Office will review the Student-Athlete Employment Form and will sign the form indicating that the student-athlete has completed all steps. Additionally, the student-athletes will be provided with a signed copy.
3. The Compliance Office will periodically monitor the employment of student-athlete.

Student-Athletes can be employed (e.g., as counselors) as workers at camps and clinics for their respective sports. If interested in working at an institutional camp/clinic, the student- athlete must work with the Camp/Clinic Director to complete a written request for the student- athlete to be employed. Currently enrolled student-athletes may not participate as campers in their institution’s camps or clinics. The Director of Athletics must give prior approval to the student-athlete’s employment arrangement in a camp or clinic. The Director of Athletics, Compliance Office, and Camp Director must all sign a Student-Athlete Camp Employment form for each student to be employed, at least one week before the start of a camp/clinic.

Student-Athletes may only be employed at an outside camp or clinic if it is operated under all NCAA rules applicable to institutional camps and clinics. Therefore, all student-athletes seeking to be employed at a non-institutional camp/clinic are not able to do so without prior approval from the Compliance Office or Director of Athletics.

If an individual is looking to work for an outside camp or clinic, it is important they complete the following steps:

1. Complete an Student-Athlete Employment Form through SpryIt is due prior to the start of the camp or clinic.
2. The Compliance Office or Director of Athletics reviews the form and then will grant or deny permission.

Awards, Banquets, & Benefits

Daemen Athletics selects deserving student-athletes to receive athletic awards as recognition of participation in Athletics, academic performance, and outstanding achievement. Each sport has annual awards that are based on criteria set by the individual sport. These awards are presented at the discretion of Daemen Athletics and comply with all applicable NCAA regulations. Head coaches must obtain approval from the Director of Athletics for any awards provided to the student-athlete. Awards by outside groups or organizations are not allowed unless approved in advance by the Compliance Office or the Director of Athletics. Examples of awards including the following:

• C.L.A.W. (presented annually to the senior student-athlete who best exhibits excellence in the traits of character, leadership, academic achievement and work ethic)
• Female and Male Newcomer of the Year
• Female and Male Athlete of the Year
• Per Individual Team:
  • Most Valuable Player
  • Most Improved Player
  • Wildcat Award

Graduating student-athletes are invited to attend the Senior Graduation Luncheon and receive a graduation stole if they meet the following criteria:

• Must be an NCAA varsity student-athlete in good academic standing that competed in intercollegiate activity at the time of graduation. (Extenuating circumstances, ei. career-ending injuries, other unforeseen occurrences, will be reviewed by the athletic administration following the coaches recommendation).
• Will have a bachelor degree conferred in May of the year you attend the luncheon, and are not returning to compete the next If you will graduate and be returning for a remaining year of eligibility, you will have a choice of which year to be honored.
• If you are in a BSMS program or the PT program, you must, by May, have satisfied all the requirements of the BS portion, and are either not returning to compete next year, or if you are intending to return for a final year of competition, you will have a choice of which year to be honored.

**One will not be invited to attend the lunch or receive a stole if they quit or are ineligible to compete at the time of graduation.

It is prohibited for student-athletes to receive additional rewards or benefits from faculty members, staff members, or anyone else who the student-athlete is legally dependent upon. If a student-athlete receives any financial award, or benefit that is not authorized by Bylaw 16 of the NCAA, they will be deemed ineligible. Examples of prohibited awards from outside entities, staff members, or faculty include:

• Loan or cash to cover off-campus housing expenses
• Loans of any sort
• Overnight lodging in a coach or staff member home
• Meals or food outside of the Occasional Home Meal
• Any support from Boosters
• Use of car or transportation that is not generally available to the institution’s students

Student Athlete Financial Aid Appeal Process

If a student-athlete wishes to appeal the nonrenewal of aid the student-athlete may ask for a hearing before the Financial Aid Appeals Committee. Student-athlete must notify, in writing, the Financial Aid Office within 14 days of the issuance of this letter, asking for a hearing at the following address:

Daemen University
Attn: Director of Financial Aid
4380 Main Street
Amherst, NY 14226

Procedures for Appealing Reduction, Cancellation or Nonrenewal Athletic Scholarship Appeals Hearing:

1. Within 14 consecutive calendar days of written notification by the Director of Athletics, the Financial Aid Office shall send written notification to the student-athlete regarding the opportunity for an appeal hearing.
2. The student-athlete shall have 14 consecutive calendar days upon the date of issuance of this letter to respond, in writing, to the Financial Aid Office and formally request a hearing.
3. A late notification, or failure to submit a written request for a hearing, shall be interpreted as a refusal of the opportunity for a hearing. As a result, the initial determination to reduce, cancel, or not renew the athletic grant-in-aid shall be made final and binding.
4. Upon receiving a written request for the hearing, the Financial Aid Appeals Committee shall conduct the hearing within 30 consecutive calendar days. The student-athlete and Daemen Athletics shall receive written notification as to the time, date, and location of the hearing.
5. The Financial Aid Appeals Committee presides over this hearing and makes the final determination and the Director of Financial Aid serves as the Chair of the Committee.
6. The Financial Aid Appeal Committee is composed of individuals outside of Daemen Athletics.
7. At this hearing, the student-athlete and Daemen Athletics shall be allowed an opportunity to present their case regarding the reduction, cancellation or nonrenewal of athletic aid. Either party is permitted to present witnesses and/or documents to the Committee that may support their position.

8. At the conclusion of the hearing, the Financial Aid Appeal Committee shall have 48 hours to render a final decision as to the status of athletic aid. Both Daemen Athletics and the student-athlete shall be informed of this decision. This decision shall be final and not subject to appeal.

Action

If the Appeals Committee determines that the decision was not a violation of any NCAA rules/regulations or institutional policy and no extenuating circumstances are present, the appeal is denied.

If the Appeals Committee determines that the decision was in violation of any NCAA rules/regulations or institutional policy, the appeal is approved. The original athletically-related financial aid award is made available to the student-athlete as soon as possible. In some cases, a work commitment to Athletics may be required to fulfill the terms of the scholarship contract.

In any case, the chair of the Appeals Committee notifies the student and other appropriate parties in writing within ten business days after the hearing.

Postgraduate Scholarships

The NCAA awards around 170 postgraduate scholarships for use in an accredited graduate program. The scholarship is for student-athletes who are in their final year of competition or have completed athletic eligibility and have proven their excellence both academically and athletically. Eligible student athletes must be nominated by the Faculty Athletic Representative, have a minimum undergraduate cumulative GPA of a 3.2 (on a 4.0 scale), and be enrolled in a graduate degree granting program within one-year after the academic year the scholarship was awarded.

Outside Scholarships

All student athletes are required to report on any outside scholarships they are receiving. Student athletes are required to report this information when completing their Fall NCAA check in paperwork. Further, the financial aid office will follow up with these students requiring them to complete a form listing information about their outside scholarships.

Apparel or Equipment that includes Institutional Identification

A student-athlete may retain institutional athletic apparel items (not equipment) as an award after the student-athlete exhausts their eligibility, per the discretion of the head coach.

Each Head Coach is permitted to hold a campus-wide “sale” of any apparel that is no longer being used or is in excess for the academic year and funds raised will benefit that specific sport program.

Occasional Home Meal

Occasionally during the semester, a student-athlete singularly or an entire team may receive a home meal from coaches, staff or a booster. These meals must be pre-approved by the Compliance Office.

Complimentary Admissions (Tickets)

Student-athletes receive a maximum of four (4) complimentary admissions per regular season competition in their sport for their guests, regardless of whether the student-athlete competes. Student-athletes may neither sell their complimentary admissions benefits nor provide complimentary admissions benefits for a booster or an agent or any persons associated with gambling.

Directions: We use a system called home-town ticketing, who will email your guests their tickets. You will be asked to complete a google form with the names and emails of those guests. Home-town ticketing will then email the tickets to them. Names must be submitted 48 hours prior to the home competition to be submitted on time. The coaching staff will provide the google document prior to each home event.

Fundraising

Daemen Athletics coaches, athletics administrators, student-athletes and “representatives of athletic interests” shall follow all NCAA athletic fundraising policies and procedures, as well as Daemen University Business Office and Advancement Office rules and regulations, regarding the raising of and receiving funds from any and all fundraising events without exception. Each Head Coach is encouraged to set up opportunities for their team to participate in fundraising activities that will generate operational money for their sport. There are many different fundraising options. Each team will seek out different fundraising opportunities, and student-athletes are encouraged to participate in such activities to help generate operational money for their sport or to offset the cost of specific items. The Director of Athletics will approve all athletically related fundraising events, in advance.

SAAC

What is SAAC?

The Student Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) is a committee made up of student-athletes whose role is to provide insight into the student-athlete experience. Two student-athletes from each sport will serve as a representative for SAAC. Members of SAAC will develop leadership skills and mature into well- rounded individuals while promoting a positive image of Daemen University at all times. SAAC offers student-athletes to offer their opinions on the rules, regulations, and policies that affect the lives of student-athletes not only Daemen University, but also on campuses around the country. Topics of discussion include academics, service opportunities, collaboration, and new NCAA legislation.

Mission

The SAAC is a requirement of member institutions within the NCAA and its ultimate mission of the National Student-Athlete Advisory Committees is to enhance the total student-athlete experience within the Daemen Athletics Department and University, the ECC, NEC, and the NCAA as a whole by promoting opportunity, protecting student-athlete welfare and fostering a positive student-athlete image.

Functions of SAAC:

• Generate a student-athlete voice within the department, institution, and conference.
• Solicit response from student-athletes to proposed NCAA legislation.
• Organize community service and community engagement opportunities.
• Create an opportunity for student-athletes to serve on campus-wide committees.
• Promote communication between athletics administration and student-athletes.
• To give student-athletes an opportunity to communicate suggestions, needs, wants, praise, and problems to the athletics administration.
• Build a sense of community within Daemen Athletics involving all teams equally.
• To design programs that will encourage academic success, health promotion, social responsibility, and general awareness of the needs of the student-athletes on campus.
• Provide feedback and insight into Daemen Athletics issues/concerns.
• Promote a positive student-athlete image on campus and in the community.

SAAC Executive Board

In addition, there are five officers (President, Vice President, Secretary, Treasurer and Diversity and Inclusion officer) that comprise the SAAC Executive Board. These officers each play an important role in the organization of the committee.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

Purpose

Mirroring the Daemen University philosophy, Division II athletics programs’ goal is to engage with their communities to foster relationships between student-athletes and community members and develop a shared civic experience. All student-athletes shall participate in community service initiatives, either with their respective teams and/or with SAAC. Daemen Athletics representatives (student-athletes, coaches, staff, administrators) shall offer service to Daemen University, to Daemen Athletics, and to the community because individuals in such positions are privileged, have the opportunity to serve, and are likely to make a positive impact on those in the community. Serving others in the community makes Daemen University, Daemen Athletics, and our community a better place. Serving others is also an excellent way to enhance the lives of those involved.

CAUSE

CAUSE, the Center for Allied and Unified Sports and Exercise, is a unified sports program for community members with disabilities and is housed right on Daemen’s Campus. Each session 5-8 Daemen Student Athletes help teach skills to participants attending the program. They set up all sports skills development stations and work with the participants to improve their skills. This is a program our athletes love because they are able to share their passion for sports that may not otherwise ever be able to play them.

CAUSE is also offered as an on campus service-learning course. What makes CAUSE unique is that they partner with the Nursing and Social Work Department students and those classes pair up one on one with participants while at the session. This gives them the opportunity to engage with peers close in age.

While at Daemen all student athletes are required to complete service learning for the Buffalo community. With our athletes already being exposed to CAUSE their first year, we see many of our athletes looking to take this course.

Team Impact

Team Impact is a group that matches children facing serious illness and disability with college sport teams, creating a long-term, life-changing experience for those involved. Our athletic teams look forward to this yearly partnership and welcoming the Team Impact athletes to our teams.

Helper Helper

Helper Helper is a volunteer hour management and tracking platform that takes our logged hours and compares them to other NCAA schools.

ATHLETICS STAFF

Director of Athletics

Traci Murphy

Director of Athletics

tmurphy@daemen.edu

 Athletics Chief of Staff/Business Manager

Stephanie Albano

Senior Associate Athletics Director for Internal Operations

salbano@daemen.edu

 Communications & Media Relations

Mike Miranto

Senior Associate Athletics Director forCommunications

mmiranto@daemen.edu

 Compliance & Student-Athlete Success

Suzie DeNillo	Assistant Athletics Director forCompliance and Student Success	sdenillo@daemen.edu
TBA	Director of Student Athlete Success andCommunity Engagement	ijames@daemen.edu

 Corporate Sponsorships

Mike MacDonald

Senior Associate Athletics Director forExternal Relations

mmacdona@daemen.edu

 Faculty-Athletics Representative

Carol Bartlo

Faculty-AthleticsRepresentative

cbartlo@daemen.edu

Operation, Facilities, & Recreation/Intramurals

Mike Miranto Senior Associate Athletics Director forOperatios mmiranto@daemen.edu Jenepher Banker Assistant Athletics Director forTravel jbanker@daemen.edu

Ryan Grandits	Operations Assistant	ryan.grandits@daemen.edu
Summer Hemphill	Operations Assistant	shemphill@daemen.edu
Bret Stothart	Director of Recreation and Wellness	bstothar@daemen.edu

 Senior Woman Administrator

Stephanie Albano

Senior Woman Administrator

salbano@daemen.edu

 Sports Medicine/Strength & Conditioning

Jeff Sage	Director of Sports Medicine	jsage@daemen.edu
Alicia Loh	Athletic Training Intern	aloh@daemen.edu
Kyle Wells	Assistant Athletic Trainer	kwells@daemne.edu
Zach Morris	Assistant Athletic Trainer/Strength &Conditioning	zmorris@daemen.edu
TJ Lavigne	Head Strength & Conditioning Coach	tlavigne@daemen.edu

 Men’s Basketball Coaching Staff

Mike MacDonald	Head Coach	mmadona@daemen.edu
Ryan Grandits	Associate Head Coach	ryan.grandits@daemen.edu

Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff

Jenepher Banker Head Coach jbanker@daemen.edu Kallie Banker Volunteer Assistant Coach mbanker@daemen.edu Summer Hemphill Assistant Coach shemphill@daemen.edu

Women’s Bowling Coaching Staff

CarrieRacsumberger	Head Coach	cracsumb@daemen.edu
Terry Zarcone	Assistant Coach

 Men’s & Women’s Cross Country/Track & Field Coaching Staff

Pete Gratien	Head Coach	pgratien@daemen.edu
Kelsey Gratien	Assistant Coach
Jason Cukierski	Assistant Coach (Track & Field –Sprints/Jumps)	jcukiers@daemen.edu
Maggie Fuentes	Assistant Coach (Track & Field – Throws)	mneedham@daemen.edu

 Men’s Soccer Coaching Staff

Bediako Swan	Head Coach	bswan@daemen.edu
Mark Aguiniga	Graduate Assistant	maguiniga@daemen.edu
Pontus Lundin	Assistant Coach	pontus.lundin@daemen.edu

 Women’s Soccer Coaching Staff

Dan Dolan	Head Coach	ddolan@daemen.edu
Tori Delappi	Graduate Assistant	victoria.delappi@daemen.edu

 Men’s & Women’s Tennis Coaching Staff

Richard Greco, Jr.	Head Coach	rgreco@daemen.edu
Sam Greco	Graduate Assistant	samuel.greco@daemen.edu

Women’s Lacrosse Coaching Staff

Dominique Hamman	Head Coach	dhamman@daemen.edu
Aaliyah Deaton	Graduate Assistant	aaliyah.deaton@daemene.du

 Men’s Volleyball Coaching Staff

Darek Przybyl	Head Coach	dprzybyl@daemen.edu
Ryan Parker	Graduate Assistant	ryan.parker@daemen.edu

 Women’s Volleyball Coaching Staff

Eli Irizarry Pares	Head Coach	eli.irizarry@daemen.edu
Dunja Masic	Graduate Assistant	dunja.masic@daemen.edu

 Cheerleading Coaching Staff

Brianna Aichinger

Head Coach

baiching@daemen.edu