MHSAA: August 1998 Bulletin

REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL AND UPPER PENINSULA
ATHLETIC COMMITTEE ELECTIONS

Ballots to be Sent to Schools September 3, 1997

As stated in the May 1998 Bulletin, ballots for Representative Council nominees/elections will be mailed to principals of member schools from the MHSAA office Sept. 2, 1998. The ballots will be due back in the MHSAA office Sept. 16, 1998.
Eight positions for membership on the Representative Council will be up for election this fall. Vacancies for two-year terms beginning December 1998 will occur as follows: Class A-B Northern Section LP; Class A-B — Southwestern Section LP; Class A-B — Southeastern Section LP; Class C-D — Upper Peninsula; Class C-D — Northern Section LP; State Wide At-Large; Junior High/Middle School, elected on a state-wide basis; and Private and Parochial High Schools.
In addition to the above named Representative Council positions, there are three Upper Peninsula Athletic Committee positions to be voted in September: An athletic coach position, a representative of the Class D schools, and a representative of the Class A-B schools (A-B is a one-year term).
Look for the ballots and return them in time to be counted by the Board of Canvassers. Be sure you mark your ballot correctly and signatures are affixed in the proper places. Ballots must have two (2) signatures to be considered valid.
Details of the Representative Council composition may be found beginning on page 15-18 of the Handbook.
Following the due date of Sept. 16, 1998 the Board of Canvassers as provided in Article IV of the Constitution of the Michigan High
School Athletic Association, will meet and declare the winners for the various vacancies.
In accordance with the approved nomination and election procedures, listed candidates have submitted their desire to run for a position by March 15, 1998. They have included an approval to serve from their respective Superintendent or Principal and have certified their qualifications to run for the office which they seek. No write-ins will be possible because each candidate must be approved by March 15 in order to run for a position on the Representative Council.
Following is a list of declared candidates and the vacancies which will occur in December 1998:

REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL CANDIDATES
Northern Section, Lower Peninsula - Class A and B Schools — Robert Riemersma, Principal, Manistee High School
Southwestern Section, Lower Peninsula - Class A and B Schools — Karen S. Leinaar, Athletic Director, Delton-Kellogg Schools; Michael S. Shibler, Superintendent, Rockford Public Schools
Southeastern Section, Lower Peninsula - Class A and B Schools — Eric C. Federico, Athletic Director, Gibraltar-Carlson High School
Upper Peninsula - Class C and D Schools — Keith Alto, Athletic Director, Newberry High School
Northern Section, Lower Peninsula - Class C and D Schools — Tammy Jackson, Assistant Principal/AD, East Jordan High School; William D. Newkirk, Superintendent, Sanford-Meridian Public Schools
Statewide At-Large — Dennis F. Kniola, Principal, Stevensville-Lakeshore Middle School
Junior High/Middle Schools — Keith Eldred, Athletic Director, Williamston Middle School
Private and Parochial High Schools —Tom Rashid, Director of Health, Phys. Ed., Athletics & Safety, Archdiocese of Detroit

UPPER PENINSULA ATHLETIC COMMITTEE
Athletic Coach —Dick Koski, Athletic Director/Coach, Negaunee High School
Class D Schools — Joe Reddinger, Athletic Director, Iron Mountain-North Dickinson High School; Ron Warner, Athletic Director, Lake Linden-Hubbell High School
Class A & B Schools (1-Year Term) —Don Edens, Athletic Director, Kingsford High School; James E. French, Athletic Director, Escanaba High School; Tim Hall, Athletic Director, Sault Ste. Marie-Sault Area High School; Thomas J. Watson, Superintendent, Gladstone Area Schools

REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL MEETING
Thompsonville, May 3-5, 1998

Accounts of Meetings — Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Randy Salisbury, to approve the minutes of the Representative Council Meeting of March 27, 1998, and the Executive Committee Meeting minutes of March 26 and April 15, 1998. Adopted.
Reports
Legislation — The Executive Director updated the Council on four bills pending in the Michigan Legislature, one of which directly and three indirectly could affect interscholastic athletics at the local level.
Litigation — Attorney Edmund Sikorski described the need for and basic elements of an indemnification policy for MHSAA officers, directors, employees, committee members and agents. Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Joyce Seals, to approve the policy in concept and the request that a final version of the policy be prepared for the Executive Committee for its adoption as soon as possible. Adopted.
The Executive Director reported that the MHSAA is working with the Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association to co-sponsor the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association Leadership Training Program 504, “Legal Issues and Strategies in Athletics.” The MHSAA is preparing some of the curriculum to assist the course application for Michigan athletic administrators, is underwriting a portion of the tuition for the NIAAA course, and is scheduling the course in conjunction with three sites for the Athletic Directors In-Service workshops in August.
Administration — The Executive Director reported that MHSAA membership during the 1997-98 school year was 729 high schools and 564 junior high/middle schools, compared with 725 and 583, respectively, during 1996-97; 720 and 613, respectively, during 1995-96; 715 and 624, respectively, during 1994-95; and 704 and 615, respectively, during 1993-94. He indicated that growth in member high schools is primarily among smaller schools. Council members offered some suggestions for additional promotion of the benefits of junior high/middle school membership in the MHSAA to help assure that school districts do not overlook naming their junior high/middle schools for membership in the MHSAA.
As of April 17, 1998, there were 117 cooperative program agreements for high schools and 38 cooperative program agreements for junior high/middle schools, compared with 103 and 40, respectively, one year earlier; 84 and 39, respectively, two years earlier; and 68 and 32, respectively, three years earlier. It was reported that the Executive Committee had approved one additional junior high/middle school cooperative program agreement on May 2, 1998, bringing the total to 39 junior high/middle school cooperative agreements in effect. Partly because of issues to be discussed later in the agenda, there are many cooperative program applications at the high school level pending for Executive Committee consideration at its June meeting.
Eligibility advancement applications were received and approved for 41 overage 7th and 8th graders during the 1997-98 school year as of April 1, 1998, compared with 52 during 1996-97, 67 during 1995-96 and 60 during 1994-95. The 10-year high was 94 during the 1991-92 school year. Member schools’ Enrollment Declaration Forms for 1998-99 report a total of 4,106 over-age students will be enrolled at MHSAA member schools.
It was reported that 261 Educational Transfer Forms had been processed for 1997-98 through March 31, 1998, compared to 228 during the 1996-97 school year, 261 during the 1995-96 school year and 262 during the 1994-95 school year. During the current year, 134 of the applications were under exception No. 8 of the transfer regulation, 39 of the applications were under exception No. 12, and 88 were under exception No. 13. Of the total, 160 of the applications were for transfers from a public school to a public school, 50 were for transfers from a public school to a private school, 29 were for transfers from a foreign school to a private school, 14 were for transfers from a private school to a private school, and 8 were for transfers from a private school to a public school.
Out-of-State Travel Declaration Forms were filed by 50 schools during the 1997-98 school year (22 in softball, 21 in baseball, 4 in boys tennis, 1 in girls golf, 1 in girls swimming and 1 in soccer), compared to 59 schools during 1997-97, 51 schools during 1995-96, and 63 schools during 1994-95.
Update Meetings in October and November of 1997 were attended by 1,118 people, the sixth highest attendance in the 20-year history of the Update Meetings. The schedule of Update Meetings for 1998 was presented.
A summation of mailings from the MHSAA office to Representative Council members during 1997-98 was presented.
A listing of violations by schools and officials between April 15, 1997 and April 15, 1998 was reviewed. The total number of school violations was 507, the highest number ever. The violations for the current year included 332 for failure to rate any officials in a sport for which ratings are maintained, compared to 322 the year before. There were 106 violations for failure to attend a rules meeting and/or pass the examination, compared to 82 the year before. There were 69 other violations. There were 302 different schools with violations, compared to 300 the year before. There were 122 schools with multiple violations, compared to 111 the year before. The number of officials with violations during the 1997-98 school year was 63, compared to 77 during 1996-97.
Associate Director Jerry Cvengros provided a report on athletic director in-service programs conducted by the association in 1997. Total attendance was 270, compared to 251 the year before. The 1998 schedule will again have nine sites; and at three of the sites (Frankenmuth, Bloomfield Hills and Kalamazoo), athletic directors will have the opportunity to follow the traditional in-service workshop with the NIAAA Leadership Training Program 504 “Legal Issues and Strategies in Athletics” for which the MHSAA is providing a financial subsidy for all attending athletic directors.
The Program of Athletic Coaches’ Education (PACE) was also reviewed by the Associate Director who reported that approximately 1,000 coaches will have completed either the four-week program or one of two levels of the six-hour program or one of the programs offered as part of courses at Michigan colleges and universities. The Associate Director presented the preliminary schedule for 1998-99.
Supervisor of Officials Bill Bupp reported that for the 1997-98 school year there were 11,125 registered officials, which represents another 10-year high. In three sports the number of registered officials reached a ten-year high: football, ice hockey and soccer. In eight of twelve sports, the number of registered officials increased in 1997-98 versus 1996-97.
Rules meeting attendance was 17,524 to date for the 1997-98 school year. These preliminary totals included 8,560 school representatives and 8,964 officials. The staff was asked to provide the Officials Review Committee with rules meeting attendance history by sport and, if possible, rules meeting attendance by zone for the sports of baseball and softball The intent is to determine what percentage of officials are attending these meetings and to discover reasons why other officials do not attend, thus limiting the pool of qualified officials for MHSAA tournaments.
The Supervisor of Officials reviewed Officials Reports for the spring 1997, fall 1997, and winter 1997-98 seasons.
Also reviewed by the Supervisor of Officials were events for officials in April which included 209 people at training events on the first weekend of April and 240 attendees at the Officials’ Awards & Alumni Banquet on the last weekend of April. There are now 39 approved officials associations, 62 certified assignors and 183 officials association trainers in the sports of football, basketball, volleyball, wrestling, baseball, softball and soccer.
Communications Director John Johnson reported on the development of the MHSAA Web Site which has grown to an average of 500 visitors per day, including 1,000 visitors per day during March. He described plans to accelerate the development of the MHSAA Web Site through a partnership with the Amateur Sports Network.
The Executive Director reviewed results of the Student Interest Survey conducted of 7th, 8th and 9th graders in MHSAA member school districts. Assistant Director Suzanne Martin reported on the initial meetings and future agenda for an internal study group which is considering changes in society, schools and sports to help identify to the staff trends that could affect rules and tournaments.
Presentations
Denny Dock, Football Coach at Stevensville-Lakeshore High School, and Jim Webb, Athletic Director at Hartford High School regarding Football Playoff expansion.
Rick VanTongeren, Grand Rapids-Forest Hills Central High School, President of the Michigan Ski Coaches Association, regarding the recommendations concerning skiing that were on the Council’s agenda.
Bruce Caswell, Superintendent at Pittsford, for the Michigan Interscholastic Track Coaches Association, regarding the scheduling of the Track Regionals and Finals and the desire to reclassify track and field into four equal divisions.
Study and Discussion
Cooperative Programs and Football Playoff Expansion were the subjects for prolonged discussion during which no motions were allowed.
Old Business
Regulation I, Section 9 — Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Joyce Seals, for the staff to develop a model policy to distribute for local school districts’ consideration to address the eligibility of students who change schools to escape ineligibilities imposed by their former schools for academic deficiencies or athletic code violations. Adopted.
Motion by Tom Rashid, supported by Dan Flynn, to approve the following addition to the transfer regulation: “The Executive Committee has the authority under Section 4(E) of Article VII of the MHSAA Constitution to grant immediate eligibility at the sub-varsity level for transferring 9th or 10th grade students who have not previously participated in any sport at the high school level and who do not qualify for one of the 15 stated exceptions to the transfer regulation and have transferred for reasons having nothing to do with athletics, discipline or family finances and would not require Executive Committee evaluation or comparison of school demographics or curriculum.” Adopted.
Motion by Keith Alto, supported by Dennis Kniola, to approve a 16th exception to the transfer regulation which would allow students who have participated in a cooperative program with another school to transfer to that school and be immediately eligible in the sport(s) in which that student participated through the cooperative agreement. Defeated.
Constitution
Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Gerry David, to approve with minor modifications for distribution to the membership for vote the MHSAA Executive Committee proposal to amend the MHSAA Constitution so that Class C and D public schools of the City of Detroit may participate in MHSAA Representative Council elections as candidates and voters. Adopted.
Regulations
Regulations I through V of the MHSAA Handbook and their interpretations were submitted for review by the Representative Council.
Consent Package — After one item was removed for individual consideration, motion by William Newkirk, supported by Randy Salisbury, to approve the consent package of miscellaneous changes for the purpose of organization, clarity or updating, and to incorporate changes or Interpretations previously approved by the Representative Council. Adopted.
Regulation I, Section 8 — Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Keith Eldred, to replace current Handbook Interpretations No. 38 and 39 with the following: “Passing 20 credit hours is defined here and throughout these regulations as meeting requirements of courses for which credit toward graduation will be granted and which meet approximately 20 hours per 5-day week over a period of weeks. The minimum could be met, for example, by the following:
“One 4-hour course which meets daily. Two 2-hour courses which meet daily. Two 4-hour courses which meet on alternate days. Two 1-hour courses and one 2-hour course which meet daily. Four 1-hour courses which meet daily.”
Adopted.
Regulation I, Section 9 — Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Dan Flynn, to revise Interpretation No. 64 to read as follows: “If a student enters a member school from a home school, the student is not eligible for interscholastic athletics for one semester, unless after attendance at that home school for at least 270 calendar days the student transfers under the terms of exception 6 or 11 of Section 9(A). The transfer is permitted with immediate eligibility one time only.” Adopted. In order to be immediately eligible under exception 6 (school ceases to operate) or exception 11 (completion of last grade available), a student transferring from a home school must have begun attendance at that home school at least 270 calendar days earlier and been in continuous enrollment.
Regulation I, Section 11 — Motion by Tom Rashid, supported by Paul Ellinger, to not eliminate the monetary limit of $15 on symbolic awards. Adopted (no change).
Regulation V, Section 2 — Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Dan Flynn, to approve the requirement of a payment of up to $2,500 by the violating school to the aggrieved school for failure to fulfill a properly executed game contract. Defeated.
Junior High/Middle Schools
Motion by Keith Eldred, supported by Paul Ellinger, to approve the following recommendations of the Junior High/Middle School Committee:
1. Revise Regulation III, Section 13(A) to reduce the minimum suspension to the next two contests after the discovery of a violation.
2. Reverse the 200-meter hurdles and 70 meter dash in the Order of Events in junior high/middle school track and field.
3. Add the pole vault to the Girls Order of Events for junior high/middle school track and field.
4. Adopt the National Federation recommendation for limits of competition which allows athletes to compete in any three track and/or field events without regard to distance or interval between races in junior high/middle school track and field.
5. Revise the second paragraph of Regulation IV, Section 10, Item 10 (volleyball) to read (underscored is new): “It is permissible for junior high/middle school volleyball programs to lower the volleyball net to 7 feet for girls or 7 feet, 7 inches for boys, by prior mutual consent of competing teams. If there is no mutual consent, the net shall be set at the National Federation regulation height of 7 feet, 4 1/8 inches for girls or 7 feet, 11 5/8 inches for boys.”
Adopted.
Cooperative Programs
Motion by Tom Rashid, supported by Eric Federico, that the following actions be taken with respect to cooperative programs in all sports involving Class A and B schools:
1. Require league approval for renewals (survey likely opponents for programs that are not part of leagues);
2. Monitor tryout and participation numbers;
3. Communicate in materials for all new agreements and renewals the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.
Adopted.
Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Joyce Seals, to approve the Classification Committee recommendation that the Executive Committee be given the specific authority to waive the reclassification of a cooperative program in a sport involving only Class D schools when only a few students are participating in that sport from the cooperating (not primary) school which has not sponsored that sport for at least three years and the request not to reclassify the program by its combined enrollment in that sport has the written support of its league or conference (the cooperative program would be classified by the enrollment of the primary school only). Adopted.
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Gerry David, to affirm current Handbook Regulation I, Sections 1(E) and (F) which, with the exception of three sports for boys and five sports for girls, limit cooperative programs to schools whose combined enrollment does not exceed the maximum for Class B (991 students in 1998-99), even in those sports where the MHSAA tournament is divided into nearly equal divisions and the maximum for Division II would exceed the maximum for Class B. Adopted.
Seasons
Motion by Joyce Seals, supported by Mike Shibler, to authorize a mail survey of all schools to ascertain the current attitude toward alignment of all interscholastic seasons for boys and girls with their intercollegiate counterparts. Adopted.
Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Joyce Seals, to delay by one week the earliest starting date for practices in all spring sports. Adopted. The result is that spring sports practices may not commence until the week after Boys Basketball District and Girls Volleyball Regional Tournaments.
Athletic Equity
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Dan Flynn, to approve the three recommendations of the Athletic Equity Committee to increase efforts to recruit women and minority women and men as officials registered with the MHSAA. Adopted.
There was also discussion of the need for additional follow-up by the MHSAA and local officials associations with Legacy officials after they graduate from high school.
Committees
The Council was supplied with a description of MHSAA committees, a list of schools which had not been represented on committees for the past five years, a list of schools with five or more committee appointments over the past five years, a list of those who declined commit-tee appointments during 1997-98, lists of those who identified themselves as candidates for committees in 1998-99, and a list of attendees at the 1998 MHSAA Women in Sports Leadership Conference. Council members were encouraged to submit nominations for committees, making special efforts to provide nominations from small schools and any school which has not been represented in recent years. The staff will compile the suggestions and submit them to the Executive Committee for review and appointment at the August meeting of the Executive Committee. Names of committee members selected to serve during the 1998-99 school year will be published in the November 1998 Bulletin. The only exceptions are those committees involving the selection of tournament officials and award recipients.
Sports Activities
Minutes of every MHSAA sport committee meeting had been sent to the Representative Council, and each of the recommendations of the committees to the Representative Council had been submitted to the Council for advance study. The following actions are in response to recommendations from sport committees and others which were not previously addressed at the Council’s December or March meeting.
Baseball/Softball - Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Paul Ellinger, to not approve the Baseball/Softball Committee recommendation to revise Regulation II, Section 11(G) 1-b to permit the wearing of MHSAA member school team uniforms in all-star contests. Adopted (no change).
Basketball - Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Robert Riemersma, to approve the Basketball Committee recommendation to change the order of Girls semifinal games to follow the order of Boys semifinal games, and to advance the starting times for all Girls final games by one hour. Adopted.
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Robert Riemersma, to refer to the staff the responsibility to develop and implement an MHSAA tournament policy for the pregame handshakes during team and coach introductions. Adopted.
Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Norm Johnson, to not approve the Basketball Committee recommendation to use three-person officiating crews starting with the Regional level of MHSAA tournament competition. Adopted (no change).
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Mike Shibler, to request National Federation permission to experiment with a running clock at all levels of regular season games and at MHSAA tournaments when, after the first half, one team has a lead of 40 points, with the condition that the running clock will revert to regular time schemes when the score is reduced to a 30 point lead and, in all cases, that the clock will be stopped as normal for all timeouts and between quarters. Adopted.
Motion by Tom Rashid, supported by William Newkirk, to approve a staff modification of the Basketball Site Selection Committee recommendation so that girls sites will be selected in May by the 1998-99 Basketball Site Selection Committee and boys sites will be selected in September by the 1999-2000 committee. Adopted.
Motion by Keith Eldred, supported by Eric Federico, to approve the policy which would allow established pep bands of participating teams to perform before the game and during time-outs and breaks during the semifinals and finals of the MHSAA Basketball Tournaments. Adopted.
Girls Competitive Cheer - Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Christi Brilinski, to approve the following Competitive Cheer Committee recommendations to the Representative Council:
1. Reverse Round 2 and Round 1 in the order of performance.
2. Change the precision drill, currently in Round 1, to a required 10-count compulsory drill in which the elements are the same for all teams (a new precision drill will be published in the fall each year; that published with the committee minutes shall serve as an example).
3. Increase Round 3 execution deductions, which appear on the scoresheet, from the current 10-point limit to 20 points in possible deductions.
4. Increase execution error deductions to 1.0 for a “bail-out” of a stunt. Increase execution error deductions to 2.0 for a fall or a collapsed skill.
5. Change all void round penalties to a 35-point deduction. Adopted.
Assistant Director Suzanne Martin reviewed the work of a special committee to review cheer rules and competition formats for the junior high/middle school level. It was noted that effective efforts are being made to make stunts appropriate and materials accessible to the junior high/middle school level.
Cross Country/Track and Field - Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Paul Ellinger, to not approve the Cross Country/Track and Field Committee recommendation to remove the requirement that the head attire must be of single colored cloth. Adopted (no change).
Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Paul Ellinger, to approve the committee recommendation to remove the requirement that ribbons to secure hair must be of a solid color and the same color. Adopted.
Motion by Tom Rashid, supported by William Newkirk, to survey schools regarding the recommendations of the Cross Country/ Track and Field Committee, as well as the Soccer Committee, to delay MHSAA tournament dates for track and field and girls soccer. Adopted.
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Randy Salisbury, to approve the committee recommendation to allow the modified scoring permitted by the National Federation in regular season cross country meets when there is prior mutual consent or league/conference adoption (the modified scoring will accommodate schools which have fewer than a full complement of five runners). Adopted.
Football - Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Mike Shibler, to approve the Football Committee recommendation to revise Interpretation No. 195 so that schools could not prohibit videotaping of intersquad scrimmages. Adopted.
Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Dan Flynn, to approve the committee recommendation to require that all varsity football games involving Michigan teams ending in a tie score be decided by the tie-breaking overtime procedure published in the National Federation Rule Book. Adopted.
Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Randy Salisbury, to approve the committee recommendation to revise football mercy rule administration. Adopted.
Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Eric Federico, that the Representative Council favors expansion of the Football Playoffs to include additional schools. Adopted.
Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Tom Rashid, to not approve “Proposal 16”, which would quadruple the number of teams which qualify for the Football Playoffs by advancing the start of the season and converting the ninth regular-season date to a playoff game. Adopted (no change).
Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Dennis Kniola, to direct the MHSAA staff to present to the Representative Council in December a plan for expansion of the Football Playoffs. Adopted.
Ice Hockey - Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Dan Flynn, to reclassify the MHSAA Ice Hockey Tournament into three equal divisions. Defeated.
Skiing - Motion by Christi Brilinski, supported by Keith Alto, to not approve the Ski Committee recommendation to add a fourth Region to each classification. Adopted (no change).
Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Margra Grillo, to approve the committee recommendation to qualify the top 10 individuals in each discipline or the top 4 individuals not on a qualifying team, whichever is greater. Adopted.
Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Dan Flynn, to not approve the committee recommendation to allow individuals who qualify in one discipline to compete in both disciplines. Adopted (no change).
Soccer - Motion by Joyce Seals, supported by Dennis Kniola, to approve the Soccer Committee recommendation to allow a team to compete in a multi-team tournament in which the total allowable playing time for any team is no more than 180 minutes and the event counts as one of 18 regular season contests, with the following additional provisions to apply:
1. A team would be allowed a maximum of two multi-team tournaments in its regular season schedule.
2. Multi-team tournaments could only be held on non-school days.
3. The games may only be resolved by a shootout method; no overtime could be played.
4. If an individual participates in a multi-team tournament, he/she would be allowed only one other game date in that week, Monday through Sunday. Adopted.
Motion by Joyce Seals, supported by Dennis Kniola, to endorse the committee recommendation and staff desire to seek two Final sites for the Boys Soccer Finals that are close enough together, with staggered starting times, so that spectators who choose to do so can see most of four games. Adopted.
Swimming and Diving - Motion by William Newkirk, supported by Tom Rashid, to not approve the Swimming and Diving Committee recommendation to qualify to the Diving Regionals one diver for every school participating in the league swimming meet, rather than one diver for every school which actually sponsors diving. Adopted (no change).
Tennis - Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Joyce Seals, to not approve the Tennis Committee recommendation to add a fourth doubles at the Regional and Final Tournaments. Adopted (no change).
Volleyball - Motion by Norm Johnson, supported by Keith Eldred, to not approve the Volleyball Committee recommendation that volleyball practice and competition start dates be the same as boys basketball. Adopted (no change).
Motion by Joyce Seals, supported by Gerry David, to not approve the committee recommendation to play three out of five game matches in the District through Final MHSAA Tournament. Adopted (no change).
Wrestling - Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Joyce Seals, to approve the Wrestling Committee recommendation to increase the number of medals awarded at the District, Regional and Final levels of the MHSAA Team Tournament from 15 to 20. Adopted.
Motion by Eric Federico, supported by Keith Alto, to approve the editorial, policy and date changes in the Michigan Wrestling Weight Monitoring Program. Adopted.
Operations
Calendar - Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Joyce Seals, to approve the seven-year calendar as presented. Adopted.
Meeting Expenses - Expenses for this meeting were approved at the specified hotel rate, the IRS stipulated per diem, and a 30› per mile mileage allowance, round trip.
Future Meetings - The next meeting of the Representative Council is December 2, 1998, at the Grand Traverse Resort in Traverse City, followed by the Annual Breakfast/Business Meeting on December 3, 1998.
The March meeting of the Representative Council will be on March 26, 1999, in East Lansing.
Motion by Keith Eldred, supported by Dan Flynn, for staff to negotiate with the Crystal Mountain Resort as the first choice and Sylvan Resort at Gaylord as the second choice for the spring, 1999 meeting of the Council on May 2-4. Adopted.
Allen W. Bush Awards - The MHSAA Awards Committee presented seven finalists for the seventh class of Allen W. Bush Award recipients. Each Representative Council member was requested to vote for as many nominees as he or she desired. Those selected for the award will be honored throughout the 1998-99 school year at local and state events important to the recipient.
Officials Awards - Motion by Dan Flynn, supported by Gerry David, for the staff to explore implementation of the Officials Review Committee recommendation that the MHSAA Officials Recognition Program expand to 5-, 10-, 35- and 40-year awards in addition to the current recognition program of 20- and 30-year awards. Adopted.
Upper Peninsula Tournaments - Motion by Margra Grillo, supported by Dan Flynn, to establish a sub-committee of the Representative Council to review the current policy regarding Upper Peninsula schools’ participation in statewide MHSAA tournaments and to consider modifications which seem appropriate based on the input of the U.P. Athletic Committee and administrators of U.P. schools, and to present these findings for the Representative Council’s consideration at its meeting in December. Adopted.
Finance - The Executive Director provided a year-to-date fiscal report for 1997-98 and gave details of the Finance Committee’s proposed budget for 1998-99. Motion by Paul Ellinger, supported by Gerry David, to approve the 1998-99 revenue and expense budgets of $5,506,500 and $5,878,683, respectively, and a capital improvements budget that would result in reductions in cash of $278,383. Adopted.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
Thompsonville, May 2, 1998

Members Present:
Robert Grimes, Battle Creek
Dennis Kniola, Stevensville
Tom Rashid, Detroit
Norm Johnson, Bangor
Robert Riemersma, Manistee

Staff Members Present:
Jerry Cvengros, East Lansing
Jack Roberts, East Lansing (Recorder)

Executive Committee Authority and Responsibility — The Executive Committee was reminded of its authority under Article VII of the MHSAA Constitution and specifically its responsibility to consider each application for waiver of an eligibility requirement on its individual merits, determining if the regulation serves the purpose for which it was intended in each case or if the regulation works an undue hardship on any student who is the subject of a request for waiver. (These underlying criteria may not be restated for every subject of this agenda.)
The Executive Committee was reminded that it was the responsibility of each member school involved to provide sufficient factual information about the specific request for the Executive Committee to reach a decision without further investigation. If information is incomplete, contradictory or otherwise unclear or has been received too late to be studied completely, the Executive Committee may deny the request for waiver or delay action. Such requests may be resubmitted to the Executive Committee with additional information at a subsequent meeting or appealed to the full Representative Council.
A determination of undue hardship is a matter addressed to the discretion of the Executive Committee within the educational philosophy and the place of voluntary extracurricular competitive athletics in the academic environment. The Executive Committee was cautioned to avoid making exceptions that would create precedent that effectively changes a rule without Representative Council action or local board of education adoption, which would exceed Executive Committee authority.
Students for whom waiver of a particular regulation is granted must be eligible in all respects under all other sections and interpretations of the regulations prior to participation.
Consistent with rulings of the Attorney General, schools are not bound by the decisions of the Executive Committee, but the Association may limit participation in the tournaments it sponsors to those schools which apply rules and penalties as promulgated by the MHSAA and adopted by each member school’s board of education.

Suttons Bay and Lake Leelanau-St. Mary High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[E]) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of boys and girls skiing to the cooperative agreements that exist between these schools in football, boys and girls cross country, and boys and girls track and field. Suttons Bay has sponsored skiing previously and will be the primary school.

Byron Center High School (Regulation I, Section 9) — Request to waive the transfer regulation was made on behalf of a 10th-grade student who was having difficulty with students at Wayland Union High School and began attending Byron Center High School at the start of the second semester of the 1997-98 school year.
Noting that the circumstances of this student are not unusual or compelling, the Executive Committee denied the request for waiver.

Chelsea High School (Regulation I, Section 9) — Request to waive the transfer regulation was made on behalf of a 10th- grade student who previously attended Ionia High School where she lived with her mother and father. Her father has new employment in Taylor and has rented an apartment in Chelsea until the Ionia home sells, which continues to be occupied by the student’s mother. The house was put on the market Oct. 8, 1997. The student is living with her father and enrolled at the start of the second semester at Chelsea High School. The student played in four contests with the boys soccer team at Ionia last August. At the March meeting of the Executive Committee, the request for waiver was denied with the indication that the student may gain eligibility when her mother has joined the student and her father in Chelsea and the conditions of MHSAA Handbook Interpretation No. 63 are satisfied. If that should occur this semester, the student must be withheld from the first four soccer contests after all other conditions of eligibility are met. The matter was resubmitted with additional information.
Consistent with many previous similar cases and in order to avoid unfavorable precedent, the Executive Committee denied the request for waiver.

Laingsburg High School (Regulation I, Section 9) — Request to waive the transfer regulation was made on behalf of a 12th- grade student who previously attended Lake Odessa-Lakewood High School but transferred when her residence changed to her grandparents in Laingsburg. It was alleged that the student was molested by her stepfather four years ago; her mother was allegedly evicted three times in the past 1 1/2 years; and in June of 1997, the student began living away from home, staying for awhile with four different families in the Lake Odessa area.
The Executive Committee granted the request for waiver pending submission of information which the Executive Director finds satisfactory to document the allegations.

Algonac High School (Regulation II, Section 6) — Request was made to waive Handbook Interpretation No. 149 so that the school may host a four-team Christmas basketball tournament Dec. 18, 1998 involving a team from Florida.
The request for waiver was denied.

Ironwood-Luther L. Wright High School (Regulation II, Section 9) — Request was made by the school to play the first of its allowed football games one week early in 1998 in order to play a school from Wisconsin which begins its season before Michigan.
The Executive Committee granted the request for waiver and gave permission for the school to begin practice without pads as early as Wednesday, Aug. 5, 1998.

Menominee High School (Regulation II, Section 9) — Request was made by this school to play the first of its allowed football games one week early in 1998 in order to play a school from Wisconsin which begins its season before Michigan schools, and also to begin football practice one week early.
Pending receipt of a supporting resolution from the school’s league, the Executive Committee granted the request for waiver and gave permission for the school to begin practice without pads as early as Wednesday, Aug. 5, 1998.

Stambaugh-West Iron County High School (Regulation II, Section 9) — Request was made by this school to play the first of its allowed football games on week early in 1998 in order to play a Wisconsin school which begins its season before Michigan.
Pending receipt of a supporting resolution from the school’s league, the Executive Committee granted the request for waiver and gave permission for the school to begin practice without pads as early as Wednesday, Aug. 5, 1998.

Houghton Lake Middle School and Houghton Lake-Our Lady of the Lake School (Regulation III, Section 1) — The Executive Committee approved a cooperative program in football, with Houghton Lake Middle School as the primary school.

Sturgis Middle School and Sturgis-Holy Angels Catholic School (Regulation III, Section 1) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of boys and girls tennis and boys and girls cross country to the cooperative agreement that has existed between these schools since 1995 in track and field and wrestling.

Amateur Sports Network — The Executive Committee reviewed a draft agreement for a relationship with an Internet provider which would create little risk or financial investment by the MHSAA but provide an opportunity to shape policy, benefit administratively (provide services to schools at ASN’s expense) and save some time and expense for further development of the MHSAA’s own web site. The intent is to have Communications Director John Johnson address the subject briefly at the May 3 Representative Council Meeting during the MHSAA Web Site Report, and for the agreement to be finalized shortly thereafter based on Executive Committee and Council input.

Representative Council — The Executive Committee reviewed the agenda and schedule for the May 3-5 Council Meeting.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
East Lansing, June 10, 1998

Members Present:
Robert Grimes, Battle Creek
Dennis Kniola, Stevensville
Tom Rashid, Detroit
Dan Flynn, Escanaba
Eric Federico, Gibraltar

Staff Members Present:
Jerry Cvengros, East Lansing
Jack Roberts, East Lansing (Recorder)

Powers-North Central and Carney-Nadeau High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[E]) — In April, the Executive Committee tabled the request of Carney-Nadeau to extend the application deadline for a cooperative program in football. Subsequently, the schools completed application materials, and the Representative Council granted to the Executive Committee the authority to not reclassify cooperative programs by the combined enrollment of two Class D schools when only a few students are participating in a sport from the cooperating (not primary) school which has not sponsored the sport for at least three years and the request not to reclassify the program by its combined enrollment in that sport has the written support of its league. The cooperative program would be classified by the enrollment of the primary school only, which is the circumstance under which this application is made.
Carney-Nadeau reported that approximately 5 to 10 of its students (5 to 10% of its 1998-99 enrollment) would participate in football this fall if this application is approved, including two who participated on the junior varsity level in cooperation with Stephenson High School two years ago. The combined enrollment would be 282, which is 33 (13.25%) over Class D maximum.
The Executive Committee approved the cooperative program with the stipulation that it would be moved from Class D to Class DD for the 1998 Football Playoffs and would be placed wherever the combined enrollment of the schools required for the Football Playoffs in 1999 and beyond.

Stambaugh-West Iron County and Crystal Falls-Forest Park High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[E]) — The Executive Committee approved a cooperative program between these schools in wrestling, which only West Iron County sponsored last year and for which it will serve as the primary school. The combined enrollment of 702 will place the program in Division III of the MHSAA Team Tournament.

Wakefield and Marenisco High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[E]) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of boys and girls track and field to the cooperative program that has existed since 1988 in baseball, football and boys and girls tennis.

Bridgman, Buchanan and Berrien Springs High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of Buchanan and Berrien Springs High Schools to the cooperative agreement in girls and boys swimming and diving that also includes Stevensville-Lakeshore, New Buffalo and Three Oaks-River Valley High Schools. Bridgman remains the primary school. The combined enrollment is 2,854 students.
Pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.

Farmington Public Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — At its January 14, 1998 meeting, the Executive Committee determined it would not grant quick approval to cooperative program applications in ice hockey between Class A schools or any two or more schools whose combined enrollment would make it a Class A program; and the Executive Committee decided to recommend that the Representative Council consider adopting in May the policy that by a future date to be determined, all cooperative programs in ice hockey between Class A schools or any two or more schools whose combined enrollment exceeds a certain number, be dissolved.
Subsequently, application was made for a cooperative program in ice hockey for the three Farmington high schools commencing with the 1998-99 school year. Farmington Hills-Harrison High School would be the primary school and the combined enrollment would be approximately 3,348 students. A resolution of support was received from the Western Lakes Athletic Association. At its Feb. 18, 1998 meeting, the Executive Committee tabled this item until its June, 1998 meeting in order to benefit from the Representative Council’s discussions and actions in May. The Representative Council took no action in May that would prohibit Executive Committee approval of this application.
The Executive Committee approved the application; and pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.

Kingsford and Iron Mountain High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — The Executive Committee approved a cooperative program in boys and girls cross country between these schools. Both schools have sponsored the sport previously. Kingsford will be the primary school. The combined enrollment of 1,119 means there will be a loss of one school from the Upper Peninsula Class C Meet (Iron Mountain) and the cooperative program will participate in the Class A/B Upper Peninsula Cross Country Meet.
Pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these cooperating schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.

Lathrup Village-Southfield-Lathrup and Southfield High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — In May of 1997, the Representative Council voted that while girls soccer had more than 250 sponsoring schools and would be removed from the list of girls sports where cooperative programs are allowed regardless of combined school enrollment, the three cooperative programs that previously existed in girls soccer between schools whose combined enrollment exceeded the maximum for Class B could be continued, subject to Executive Committee review at the time the programs would renew.
The combined enrollment of this cooperative program in girls soccer, which has existed since 1992, will be 2,647 students. Only five members of the girls soccer team are anticipated to be enrolled at Southfield High School.
The Executive Committee approved the renewal of this cooperative program; and pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.

Muskegon-Reeths-Puffer and Muskegon High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — Request was made to waive the deadline for fall cooperative program applications and to approve the application for these two schools to form cooperative teams in girls and boys swimming and diving. Only Muskegon High School sponsored boys and girls swimming and diving last year (Class A), and it would serve as the primary school for this program that would have a combined enrollment of 2,612 students.
The Executive Committee granted the request to waive the application deadline for fall sports and approved the application; and, pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.-

Sault Ste. Marie-Sault Area and Brimley High Schools (Regulation I, Section 1[F]) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of Brimley High School to the existing cooperative program in boys and girls swimming and diving. Brimley does not have facilities, and Sault Area will be the primary school. The combined enrollment of 1,141 moves the program from Class B to A but requires no adjustment to Upper Peninsula tournaments where all classes are combined in a single tournament.
Pursuant to Representative Council directive, the Executive Committee requested that MHSAA staff communicate to these cooperating schools the preference for separate teams as participation numbers grow at the cooperating schools.

Schoolcraft High School (Regulation I, Sections 4 & 5) — Request was made to waive the semesters of enrollment and competition regulations on behalf of a student who spent the 1994-95 school year at Fennville High School and the 1995-96 and 1996-97 school years at Zeeland High School. In the fall of 1997, his parents enrolled him in a home schooling program, which was unsuccessful. In November of 1997, the student enrolled at Schoolcraft where he finished the semester but received no credit. He will complete the second semester at Schoolcraft and return to Schoolcraft next fall. Eligibility was sought for the first semester of the 1998-99 school year.
The Executive Committee determined that the student has been enrolled for eight semesters, the maximum allowed any student; and the request for waiver was denied.

Genesee High School (Regulation I, Section 9) — Request was made to waive the transfer regulation on behalf of an 11th-grade student who attended Genesee High School from Aug. 26, 1997, until Jan. 28, 1998, while living with a friend in the Genesee School District. On January 28, he relocated to his mother’s residence and transferred to Flint-Kearsley High School. He returned to Genesee High School on March 23, having received no grades at Kearsley and participating in no sports there.
The Executive Committee tabled this matter until its August meeting, directing staff to request additional information about the student.

Grand Rapids-Kenowa Hills High School (Regulation I, Section 9) — Request to waive the transfer regulation was made on behalf of two students who began the 1997-98 school year at Grand Rapids-West Catholic High School. They remained at West Catholic when the family residence moved to Coopersville in September of 1997. The students will transfer to Kenowa Hills High School for the start of the 1998-99 school year.
The Executive Committee noted the students could have been eligible regardless of residence at their former school and also at the school serving their new residence, and denied the request for waiver.

Detroit-Chadsey High School (Regulation II, Section 7[B]) — Because the school failed to rate any boys soccer officials during the 1996-97 school year and rated no boys basketball officials during both the 1995-96 and 1996-97 school years, and consistent with Regulation V, Section 4(A), the school was placed on probation through the 1997-98 school year. When the school failed again in 1997-98 to rate any boys basketball officials, the school was notified that the probationary period would extend through the 1998-99 school year with the stipulation that the school must show cause by Aug. 1, 1998 why it should not be prohibited from participation in the MHSAA Boys Basketball Tournament and any other sport where there is a failure to rate any officials during the 1997-98 school year. The school’s response of June 2, 1998 is that the coach was terminated March 13, 1998.
The Executive Committee directed staff to reemphasize that the obligation to rate officials is a duty of the member institution, not just the coach. The school will remain on probation through the 1998-99 school year, but without loss of tournament participation privileges, while its compliance record is monitored.

Detroit-Redford High School (Regulation II, Section 7[B]) — Pursuant to Regulation V, Section 4(A), early in 1997, Redford High School was placed on probation for the 1997-98 school year for failures to rate any officials for two years in boys basketball and one year in girls basketball; and when the school failed to rate any baseball officials later that spring, the school was contacted in writing that loss of MHSAA tournament participation privileges might follow future violations. Then, in the fall of 1997, the school failed again to submit any ratings for girls basketball officials. So on March 31, 1998, the school was placed on probation for the 1998-99 school year with the stipulation that it must show cause by Aug. 1, 1998 why it should not be prohibited from participation in the MHSAA tournament in any sport where there is a violation of this regulation during 1997-98, meaning that the school at this time may not participate in the 1998 MHSAA Girls Basketball Tournament.
The school’s response of April 23, 1998 stated the school was without an athletic director some of the 1997-98 school year, and it included assurances that Redford High School will be represented at all future coaches meetings (which is not the regulation at issue here). The school failed to submit any ratings for girls volleyball this past winter, suggesting that the problems may continue.
The Executive Committee found the school’s response to be deficient and determined that, as a condition for participation in the 1998 MHSAA Girls Basketball Tournament, the school’s administration must meet with the Executive Committee August 12, 1998 to show cause why it should not be prohibited from tournaments where violations of this regulation continue.

Dexter High School (Regulation II, Section 7[B]) — Pursuant to Regulation V, Section 4(A), in 1996, Dexter High School was placed on probation for the 1996-97 school year for failures to rate any officials in girls volleyball and baseball; and in 1997, probation continued because of another violation in baseball and also a violation in girls softball. Then, in the fall of 1997, the school failed to rate any boys soccer officials and was notified March 31, 1998 that probation would continue for the 1998-99 school year with the stipulation that the school must show cause by August 1, 1998 why it should not be prohibited from participation in the MHSAA tournament in any sport where there is a violation of this regulation during 1997-98, meaning that the school at this time may not participate in the 1998 MHSAA Boys Soccer Tournament.
The school’s response of April 7, 1998, was that boys soccer had been a sport paid for by parents and that the athletic director did not have complete jurisdiction; but that as of April 7, 1998, a policy has been implemented that requires all coaches to complete rating forms in the office of the athletic director who will mail in the forms.
The Executive Committee directed staff to reemphasize to the school that, however a school-sponsored team is funded, it remains the obligation of the member institution to comply with all MHSAA regulations. The school will remain on probation through the 1998-99 school year, but without loss of tournament participation privileges, while its compliance record is monitored.

Grand Rapids-Baptist High School (Regulation II, Section 7[B]) — Because it failed to rate any officials in girls basketball for two consecutive years, and consistent with Regulation V, Section 4(A), this school’s girls basketball program was placed on probation for the 1997-98 school year. When the violation occurred again for the fall of 1997, the probationary status was extended through the 1998-99 school year with the stipulation that the school show cause by August 1, 1998 why it should not be prohibited from participating in the 1998 MHSAA Girls Basketball Tournament.
The school’s responses included an explanation that the girls varsity basketball coaching position had changed twice in mid-season during the three-year period. A five-point plan was described for eliminating the problem in the future.
The Executive Committee directed staff to reemphasize that the obligation to rate officials is a duty of the member institution, not just the coach. The school will remain on probation through the 1998-99 school year, but without loss of tournament participation privileges, while its compliance record is monitored.

Maple City-Glen Lake and Indian River-Inland Lakes High Schools (Regulation II, Section 9[B]) — Request was made to allow these schools to play their first football game one week early in 1998. Glen Lake reports it lost two opponents when Brethren and Onekama left the conference. Maple City-Glen Lake is left with seven games.
The request for waiver was granted for 1998. The schools may begin practice without pads as early as Aug. 5, 1998. Practice with pads may not commence before Aug. 10 and only if three days of practice without pads have occurred.

Powers-North Central High School (Regulation II, Section 9) — The school requested permission to play the first of its allowed football games a week earlier in 1998 in order to play a school from Wisconsin which begins football earlier than in Michigan.
The Executive Committee granted the request for waiver and gave permission for the school to begin football practice without pads as early as Wednesday, Aug. 5, 1998. Practice with pads may not commence before Aug. 10 and only if three days of practice without pads have occurred.

Sturgis Middle School and Sturgis-Trinity Lutheran School (Regulation III, Section 1) — The Executive Committee approved the addition of Trinity Lutheran School to the existing cooperative program with Holy Angels Catholic School in wrestling, boys and girls tennis, boys and girls track and field, and boys and girls cross country. Trinity Lutheran is a new member junior high school for 1998-99.

Flint-Beecher High School (Regulation V, Section 3[C]) — A March 13, 1998 MHSAA Boys District Basketball game between Beecher and Flint-Powers Catholic was ended early by the officials because of the conduct of Beecher coaches. At its April 15, 1998 meeting, the Executive Committee directed the executive director to require a response from the school by June 1, 1998, regarding this incident and a letter from a member school, urging that the response include an action plan describing what has and will be done by the school district to address these concerns and to avoid similar situations in the future. The school response was received April 27, 1998.
The Executive Committee directed staff to seek assurances that the strong, positive response of the interim principal is the official position of the superintendent and board of education; and if such is confirmed in writing, to accept the school’s internal action.

Inkster High School — At its August, 1997 meeting, the Executive Committee reviewed the record of MHSAA Handbook violations by this school and determined that the 1997-98 membership of Inkster High School be held in abeyance until its superintendent, principal and athletic director met at the MHSAA office with the executive director to show cause why the school’s membership should not be suspended or its membership privileges not be reduced. At its September, 1997 meeting, the Executive Committee reviewed the actions of Inkster High School to eliminate the violations of Handbook policies and procedures that have plagued the school in recent years, accepted the school’s membership for 1997-98, and requested the Executive Director provide at the Executive Committee’s June, 1998 meeting a review of Inkster High School’s compliance record during 1997-98. It was reported that one violation, failure to rate any boys basketball officials during the 1997-98 season, is known to have occurred so far this school year.
The Executive Committee determined to continue the school’s probationary status through the 1998-99 school year and requested that the Executive Director report to the Executive Committee in June, 1999 about the school’s compliance efforts during that year.

Kimball-New Life Christian Academy — The Executive Director reported that this school has been suspended from MHSAA membership for 1998-99 for its continuing failures to meet Handbook obligations, including the failure to rate any officials and attend rules meetings in boys and girls basketball. The school previously had been prohibited from entering the MHSAA Boys and Girls Basketball Tournaments in 1997-98 and 1998-99 for failure to attend required rules meetings three consecutive years in boys basketball, and for failure to attend a rules meeting or pass a rules examination and failure to rate any officials in girls basketball.

Indemnification Policy — As requested by the Representative Council in May, the Executive Committee approved the revised draft of an Indemnification Policy for MHSAA officers, Executive Committee members, Representative Council members, employees, committee members and agents (not registered officials).

Football — With changes required by earlier action, the Executive Committee approved the assignment of teams to the two divisions in each of four classifications for the 1998 MHSAA Football Playoffs.

Volleyball — The Executive Committee approved the establishment of a Site Selection Committee to meet in October to assist with host site assignments for district, regional and quarterfinal contests. Makeup of the committee will be approved by the Executive Committee in August.

Tournament Balls — The Executive Committee affirmed the course of the MHSAA tournament balls program, indicating its preference to remain limited to the sports of baseball, softball and tennis where the MHSAA historically has paid for the balls used and recently has provided the balls to each site. Consideration could be given to expanding the term of agreement from two years to three if such is beneficial to contract negotiations, the final result of which will be presented to the Representative Council at its December, 1998 meeting.

Next Meetings — The next meetings of the Executive Committee are Wednesday, Aug. 12, 1998, at 9 a.m. in East Lansing; and Sept. 10, 1998, at 9 a.m. in East Lansing.

Junior High/Middle School Membership

While high school membership is at a record for the modern era of the Michigan High School Athletic Association, the number of junior high/middle schools has declined to the point that it has the attention of the MHSAA Representative Council.
During 1997-98 there were 729 member high schools compared with 725 during 1996-97, 720 during 1995-96, 715 during 1994-95, and 704 during 1993-94. By contrast, there were 564 junior high/middle schools with MHSAA membership during 1997-98, compared with 583 during 1996-97, 613 during 1995-96, 624 during 1994-95, and 615 during 1993-94.
While it is noted that some school districts choose not to join the MHSAA at the junior high/middle school level, either because the school district has no interscholastic athletic program at that level or has a program which seeks to exceed the number of contests or other limitations of MHSAA regulations, Representative Council members believe that much of the decline is unintentional. Schools simply overlook listing their junior high/middle schools for membership.
Council members asked staff to reemphasize the benefits of junior high/middle school membership, noting that previous efforts have resulted in increased numbers of junior high/middle school members in the Association. While there is no financial benefit to the MHSAA for increasing the number of junior high/middle school members (the MHSAA does not have membership dues), Council members believe that there are benefits of membership for all secondary schools and such benefits should again be brought to the attention of school district administrators.
Among other efforts, the staff is preparing a brochure for distribution to school districts to describe the benefits of membership available without charge to public, private and parochial junior high/middle schools of Michigan.

FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

THE SPORTSMANSHIP CHALLENGE

There is little question but that the high school athlete is the best behaved athlete on any level in Michigan; and at high school athletic events, the best behaved people are the athletes. Athletes would be disqualified from this day of competition and the next if they did once what fans do routinely.
And there’s the negative: the problem is in the stands with the people who are beyond game rules and beyond school administrators’ authority and who have forgotten or have never known the purpose of educational athletics, and sometimes get so blind with partisanship that they write, e-mail and call with outlandish complaints about everything imaginable.
The problem is made worse by media. For example, this April 2, 1998 lead by the Associated Press: “DETROIT — After a slow start, Wednesday night’s game turned into everything Detroit fans were hoping for: mass mayhem and another bloody Red Wings victory over the hated Colorado Avalanche.”
Or a columnist’s lead a month later when the St. Louis Blues came to Detroit: “DETROIT — Villains, we’re looking for villains. Rivalry, we’re looking for rivalry. Hate, we’re looking for hate (just a little bit of hate).”
Media like to pontificate that they know what’s good for sports. Well those paragraphs are not good for sports, on any level.
Media like to defend such coverage by saying it’s what the public wants to see and wants to read. Well if that’s the defense, then the media better stop claiming it has independence and integrity. Independence and integrity would say–principle would dictate –we don’t write this junk, even if the public wants it. It’s gutless and it’s harmful; and your challenge is to reject such writing.
My challenge is to get school administrators and board of education members to believe they can change behavior in spite of such reporting.
Some school people feel the sportsmanship problem is too large to solve. They say we’re up against televised examples of poor sports in college and professional games, declining standards of all kinds in schools, and diminishing support at home. “Society is unraveling,” they say, “How can we stop it in sports?”
I ask these folks to think for a minute about positive changed behaviors in society over the last 10-20 years. Against huge obstacles, Americans have learned to conserve energy and to recycle cans, bottles, plastic and paper. We have smoke-free restaurants, offices, airports and malls; we have fat-free and salt-free foods; we have sugar-free and caffeine-free drinks.
We can have “boo-free” arenas and violence-free contests. We can recycle bad energy to good. We can have both the absence of bad behavior and presence of good behavior. That is what will set high school sports apart and make us attractive in the 21st century. It is our niche in the sports world.
And that is the purpose of our ads, awards, articles, PSA’s, annual sportsmanship kit, first Statewide Sportsmanship Summit last September and second Statewide Summit this September: to make schools responsible and active at the local level, to not only arrest the declining standards of sportsmanship, but to elevate awareness and behavior.
School sports have no future in this or any other state — communities can run the programs, but schools won’t need to bother — if we don’t have sportsmanship (that’s our product, not championships), if we don’t have opportunity (for many, not just a few), and if we don’t have positive, educational experiences for participants and spectators alike.
That’s the state of high school sports the MHSAA is working for.

MHSAA Announces Partnership With
Amateur Sports Network For Web Site Services

In June, the MHSAA came to an agreement with the Amateur Sports Network of Troy, Mich., to improve Internet web site services to member schools and to provide additional fund-raising opportunities for the membership
ASN will provide web site hosting and e-mail services for the MHSAA under the agreement. Member schools, at no financial obligation, may participate by contributing information to the site and taking part in a variety of fund-raising programs.
The program also promotes student involvement through the creation of Student Sports Information Directors, who will be responsible for providing ASN with schedules, statistics and scores on all athletic teams at their schools. Results sent to ASN by SSID’s will be posted to the Internet within minutes, and conference standings would be instantaneously updated.
“One of the greatest features of the ASN-MHSAA partnership is the ability of ASN to provide schools, the media and the public, with up-to-the-minute results of high school sporting events,” said John Johnson, MHSAA communications director. “In the digital age, people want their information faster than ever, and with the cooperation of member schools, ASN can be the avenue through which information about high school sports can be obtained.”
In addition to the reporting of scores, schedules, results and statistics, ASN will also be a source of health and safety information related to high school sports. Other features will include, in the future, a password-protected environment for schools to obtain officials information.
The fund-raising programs available through ASN include Internet connection services, sponsor advertising, sporting goods catalog sales and on-line auctions. Participating member schools will receive a portion of the proceeds through these programs, and the MHSAA will also direct a portion of the revenues towards sportsmanship or other educational campaigns.
The MHSAA will also serve as the standards board for ASN, directing the tone and the content of the web site in a manner that is consistent with the mission of educational athletics.
ASN will be on line this fall, in cooperation with the Michigan High School Sports Network. Check out the MHSSN home page at: www.mhssn.com
MHSAA member school athletic directors were contacted in June regarding ASN, and additional information about training sessions for SSIDs and fund-raising programs will be sent to schools in the late summer and early fall.

REVIEWING THE REGULATIONS

“OPEN GYM” MEANS OPEN

1. Q May a school’s open gym be limited to one sport?
A No.

2. Q If the open gym is set up for two sports only, is that legal?
A Only if needs of the students are being met and activities are student-initiated.

3. Q May a school’s open gym be mandatory for past or prospective team members?
A No.

4. Q May a school’s open gym exclude students?
A Not on the basis of their athletic interests or abilities.

5. Q May a school’s open gym be limited to one gender?
A Not unless there is equal opportunity for the other gender at other equally accessible times.

6. 0 May graduates or non-members of the school participate in open gym?
A Local school policies control. No MHSAA prohibition.

7. 0 May a school coach be present during open gym?
A Only to supervise; not to coach, instruct, critique, direct or evaluate.

8. Q May a supervising coach participate as a player with students during open gym?
A Yes, but without giving instructions or directions.

9. Q May a non-school coach who supervises open gym instruct, critique, direct, evaluate or coach students participating in open gym?
A The purpose of open gym is to allow recreation. It would not be in the spirit of the regulation to offer coaching or training as a part of open gym.

10. Q May an open gym be conducted on non-school property (e.g., YMCA) by school personnel?
A Yes; and the same rules apply as if the open gym were at the school.

11. Q May open gym take place in the summer?
A Yes, but schools and students are not limited to open gym concept in the summer.

12. Q Can players from the girls basketball team participate in open gym with prospective boys basketball players prior to the week of November 15th?
A Yes, as long as the recreational concept is maintained. (Prospective boys basketball players may not practice with the girls basketball team before the boys season; prospective girls basketball players may not practice with the boys basketball team after the girls season.)

13. Q In an open gym situation, is it legal for “team members” to use the team balls and the rest of the participants to use the basic physical education equipment?
A No.

14. Q If a school runs an open gym that is just basketball and predominately male and the individuals who are likely to make the team, and the practice stops the day before official basketball practice, is this a violation?
A Such would appear to be an indicator that the so-called “open gym” is attempting to circumvent rules regulation the start of practice. However, it will be deemed a violation only if a school basketball coaches are the open gym supervisors.

TRANSFER RULE REVISIONS

Eligibility limited to the sub-varsity level will become available to some transferring students as a result of action last May by the Representative Council of the Michigan High School Athletic Association.
New authority is being bestowed upon the MHSAA Executive Committee to grant, on a case-by-case basis, immediate eligibility at the sub-varsity level for transferring 9th or 10th-grade students who have not previously participated in any sport at the high school level and who do not qualify for one of the 15 exceptions to the transfer regulation, and have transferred for reasons having nothing to do with athletics, discipline or family finances. This procedure would also not require that the Executive Committee evaluate or compare school demographics or curriculum.
A second part of the transfer regulation was modified impacting students transferring from home schools to MHSAA member schools. In order for a home-schooled student to be immediately eligible at his or her new school as a result of attending the last grade available in that home school or the home school ceasing to operate, the student must have begun attendance at the home school at least 270 calendar days earlier and have been in continuous enrollment.
This transfer is allowed with immediate eligibility one time only. Otherwise a student who transfers from a home school is ineligible for one semester, regardless of length of enrollment at the home school.
The Council also considered a regulation which would have addressed transfers by student-athletes seeking to escape ineligibilities imposed by their former schools for academic deficiencies or athletic code violations. The Council ordered the MHSAA staff to develop a model policy for local school districts’ consideration and adoption.

Eligibility Advancement Concerns

Since the 1987-88 school year, students who became over-age in junior high school have been able to participate in the 9-12 grade program under the eligibility advancement provisions within the regulations of the Michigan High School Athletic Association membership.
This modification of the rules allowed students to have four years of high school eligibility, even though they would be ineligible in 12th grade. It has allowed many students to have the opportunity to participate with their chronological peers for the equivalent of a high school athletic career.
During the 1991-92 school year, 94 students took advantage of the eligibility advancement provision. This was the year after highly publicized litigation occurred involving overage students and claims brought under the Americans With Disabilities Act.

The age limitation was found to be a valid regulation by the US Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit. Subsequently, while it may have nothing to do with the successful litigation, there has been less use of the eligibility advancement provision.
During 1997-98, only 41 overage 7th and 8th-graders had their eligibility advanced to the 9-12 grade program under this provision.
According to Enrollment Declaration Forms submitted by member schools for 1998-99, there will be a total of 4,106 over-age students enrolled at MHSAA member schools in grades 10-12. This total, and the trend toward decreasing use of the eligibility advancement provision, are cause for concern.
It is important that school administrators, parents and students not overlook the vehicle of full eligibility provided in the regulations adopted by MHSAA member schools.

Out-Of-State Travel Regulations

With the exception of competition that involves only schools of Michigan or its bordering states and provinces, member schools of the Michigan High School Athletic Association are prohibited from traveling more than 600 miles round-trip for competition or playing schools that have traveled more than 600 miles round-trip. There is no limitation on the length of travel by MHSAA member schools for practice.
In May of 1994, the MHSAA Representative Council was asked to consider a prohibition not only against the long distance travel for competition, but also to apply the same limitation for practices. The change was narrowly defeated, after which the MHSAA Representative Council adopted the requirement that the MHSAA must be notified in writing at least 30 days in advance of departure for any interstate travel beyond 600 highway miles round-trip by sports teams under the jurisdiction of a school for the purpose of practice. The Out-of-State Travel Declaration Form was developed.
During the 1994-95 school year, 63 schools filed Out-of-State Travel Declaration Forms for travel. In subsequent years, schools filed 51, 59 and (in 1997-98) 50 forms. Few people believe that only 50 schools traveled beyond 600 miles during 1997-98 for the purpose of practice and intra-squad scrimmages. The form is required; and schools which fail to complete and file the form on a timely basis are in violation of MHSAA regulations and subject to the penalty provisions of the Handbook.
The submission of the Declaration Form to the MHSAA office in no sense implies the MHSAA approves the activity or accepts any responsibility for the activity. The form was intended by the MHSAA Representative Council to assist the MHSAA office in monitoring interstate travel for practices and also for communicating to schools that the MHSAA catastrophic accident medical insurance does not cover any activities occurring beyond the mileage limits for competition, even if those activities are not expressly prohibited by the MHSAA. In other words, the catastrophic accident medical insurance of the MHSAA does not cover schools’ practices in far away states.
Athletic administrators are urged to give out-of-state travel by sports teams for practices their close scrutiny during 1998-99. The minimum requirement is that the Out-of-State Travel Declaration Form be filed with the MHSAA.

Football Playoff Expansion Issue

With nearly three-quarters of the MHSAA’s football schools favoring expansion, but without providing consensus as to how expansion should occur, the Representative Council voted on May 3, 1998:

(1) That it favors expansion of the Football Playoffs to include additional schools;

(2) To not approve “Proposal 16” which would quadruple the number of teams which qualify for the Playoffs by advancing the start of the season and converting the ninth regular-season date to a Playoff game; and

(3) To direct MHSAA staff to present to the Council in December a plan for expansion of the Playoffs.

On June 18, 1998, MHSAA staff convened a focus group representative of the MHSAA’s constituency to react to two plans of the very many ideas staff had considered.
On July 23, 30 and Aug. 4, respectively, MHSAA staff presented expansion plans to groups of athletic directors, football coaches and principals.
In October, at the MHSAA Update Meetings, staff will present its completed plan; and then in November, the membership will be surveyed about the plan.
The plan, rationale and survey results will be presented to the Representative Council for action on Dec. 2, 1998.

Health & Safety: Understanding Creatine Supplements

WHAT IS CREATINE?
Creatine is a natural substance produced by the liver, kidneys, and pancreas. Creatine can also be obtained by eating meat and fish. Creatine is essential to short-term, high-intensity (anaerobic) exercise and is stored primarily in the muscles. Creatine enables the muscles to sustain maximal contractions for 3-10 seconds. When creatine supplies in the muscles are depleted, the body relies on carbohydrates for energy during anaerobic exercise. The use of carbohydrates results in the formation of lactic acid causing muscle fatigue and delayed onset of muscle soreness (muscle soreness the day following a workout). Creatine supplementation is promoted as a method of increasing the amount of creatine available to the muscles, thus decreasing the utilization of carbohydrate. This decreases lactic acid build-up, resulting in less muscle fatigue and less delayed onset muscle soreness. This is advantageous to athletes, allowing them to recover from workouts more quickly.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF CREATINE SUPPLEMENTATION?
Studies have shown creatine can be beneficial for well hydrated athletes performing high intensity, short duration tasks, such as strength training. Some athletes involved in intensive strength training, and using creatine supplements, report an increase in body weight, muscle size, and/or muscle strength. Approximately one-third of the athletes using creatine supplements show no increase in muscle creatine levels and report no increase in weight, size, or strength. It is believed those not reporting any benefits from creatine supplements have naturally high levels of creatine that negate any benefits supplementation might provide.
A recent study has shown that wrestlers using creatine, who lost 3-4 percent of their body weight in a five day period, were not able to maintain power at maximal efforts and had decreased muscular endurance! On an average the wrestlers using creatine increased their body weight by 2 percent in five days! Based on the few studies conducted using athletes trying to control their weight, creatine is not recommended as a way to lose weight or maintain performance while losing or maintaining weight!
Two other recent studies showed no improvement in athletes running or swimming sprints as a result of creatine supplementation. Student-athletes must realize that creatine supplementation is no assurance of improved athletic performance!
Creatine supplementation typically involves taking 20 grams of creatine per day for five days, then using a maintenance dose of two grams per day during the remainder of the training period. Doses greater than this have not shown increased benefits. Unfortunately, many athletes believe the old adage, "if a little is good, more must be better." Taking large doses of creatine does not seem to have added benefits, but may very well increase possible risks.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF CREATINE SUPPLEMENTATION?
The greatest risk of creatine supplementation may be that no one knows what the long-term risks are! The major concerns regarding the short-term use of creatine supplements are dehydration and muscle dysfunction. Scientists believe creatine draws fluid into the muscles, taking it away from the vital organs of the body. Because fluid is shunted away from the vital organs, athletes using creatine may dehydrate much more quickly than other athletes and need to be monitored very carefully to avoid serious heat illness.
If creatine use is in any way related to dehydration, and it seems there is a connection, there are two areas of serious concern. Those areas are the use of creatine by athletes who are, or will be, competing in the "dog days of summer" and the use of creatine by wrestlers who are trying to lose weight. The combination of creatine supplementation, high heat, and high humidity could be deadly! Conditions creating high heat and humidity can be found naturally in the environment or created through the use of artificial weight loss methods such as rubber or plastic suits, saunas, or superheated wrestling rooms. Regardless of how the conditions are created, there is great concern for athletes who use creatine and work out in high heat and high humidity.
Most of the studies regarding creatine use have been conducted over the course of a few weeks to a couple of months at regulated doses. The long-term negative effects of creatine supplementation have not been studied nor have the effects of high doses. One possible concern of long-term, high dose use is kidney damage. Only a certain amount of creatine can be stored in the muscles and the excess is excreted through the kidneys. As the kidneys excrete creatine a by-product called creatinine produced. Elevated creatinine levels are one measure of possible kidney damage and potential failure. Users of creatine supplements have higher than normal creatinine levels and the long-term effect of these high levels in unknown.
There have been anecdotal reports that athletes using large doses of creatine, estimated at 20 grams per day, or more, seem to suffer from muscle cramps, muscle pulls, and muscle tears much more frequently than those not using creatine. This muscle dysfunction may be due to changes in the muscle tissue caused by a high level of water retention within the muscle cells. Other short term consequences some athletes report while using large does of creatine include mild diarrhea and nausea.
HOW SAFE ARE CREATINE SUPPLEMENTS?
Many promoters of creatine believe there is no need to study the possible negative effects because creatine is a substance found naturally in the body. The problem is supplementation increases creatine levels within the muscles to unnaturally high amounts. Even some vitamins, which are natural substances, can be potentially dangerous when taken in excess!
Creatine supplements, like most other food supplements, are unregulated nutritional supplements. They have not been evaluated for safety by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Nutritional supplements are sold in a "buyer beware market." When reading the claims made about creatine, or any nutritional supplement, remember, the following four tips:
1) Supplement manufacturers do not have to prove their products work!
2) Supplement manufacturers do not have to prove that their products are safe!
3) Supplement manufacturers can put health claims on their product labels, and
4) Supplements do not have to be manufactured according to any quality standards.
Consumers have to be sure they have accurate information about supplements before purchasing them.
WHAT DO SOME OF THE EXPERTS THINK?
Dr. Joseph Buckwalter, the University of Iowa's Football Team Physician, has been monitoring and studying the use of creatine by University of Iowa athletes for the past two years. An analysis of creatine's effectiveness in building muscle and improving recovery time has not been too encouraging. According to Dr. Buckwalter, "We have found some positive impact, but not a lot."
The NCAA Committee on Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports believes more research must be done to determine what negative effects, if any, might result from long-term creatine supplementation. Until that research is completed, the Committee discourages its use. The Committee does not believe athletics department staff should endorse any nutritional product purporting to improve student-athletes' athletic performance.
The Association of Professional Team Physicians is comprised of team physicians who provide service to professional sports teams. In a recent survey, 85 percent of professional team physicians indicated they believe professional athletes should not be using creatine until more research has been conducted regarding its safety.
It seems clear that while creatine supplementation may cause increases in body weight, as well as muscle size and strength, there is simply not enough scientific evidence regarding creatine's safety to warrant its use by high school student-athletes. High school coaches are discouraged from supplying creatine, or any nutritional supplement, to their student-athletes as supplying such products could create serious ethical and legal concerns.

24th ANNUAL FOOTBALL PLAYOFFS
Rules and Regulations

Introduction
The 24th Annual MHSAA Football Playoff Series will be played Nov. 6-7, 13 or 14, 21 and 27-28, 1998. It is the responsibility of each competing school to be familiar with the Rules and Regulations which follow.
After the fourth week of competition, regional standings as determined by MHSAA computers will be released not later than each Wednesday.
The Representative Council has attempted to set up financial allowances for competing team expenses and for schools hosting playoff games. It should be kept in mind that participation in MHSAA tournaments is voluntary and that total expenses of teams are not guaranteed. Cooperation of all schools will assure an equitable return of funds to both entertaining and competing schools and will enable the MHSAA to continue services to member schools and promote meets and tournaments in all sports.

Scoring System
(1) Playoff points are earned as follows and are figured only on the basis of games played:
80 points if you defeat a Class AA or A team:
64 points if you defeat a Class BB or B team;
48 points if you defeat a Class CC or C team;
32 points if you defeat a Class DD or D team.

Beginning in 1998, all varsity football games involving MHSAA member schools must result in a win or loss. Varsity games ending regulation play in a tie score must be decided by the MHSAA-approved overtime procedures. Sub-varsity games will not use the tie-breaking procedure.

(2) Bonus points are earned as follows and are figured only on the basis of games played.
8 bonus points are earned for each game one of the opponents you defeated wins.
1 bonus point is awarded when an opponent who defeated you wins. (No points for your defeat to the opponent.)
(3) Add the playoff points and write as a fraction. The sum of the playoff points is the numerator and the number of games played is the denominator.
(4) Add the bonus points for each opponent separately and write as a fraction. The bonus points of the opposing team is the numerator and the number of games played by that opponent is the denominator. Then add these two fractions for total. (When adding the fractions reduce to a decimal number correct to the nearest thousandths (92.888 will become 92.889) to determine the playoff average.)
(5) Varsity games only are to be counted. Non-varsity games are not recorded.
(6) Out-of-state schools are classified on the basis of Michigan classification.
(7) The number of points a team scores against an opponent has no bearing on the playoff point system.
(8) Games cancelled for any reason will not be counted unless they are rescheduled and played before Monday, Nov. 2, 1998. All games contracted before Oct. 9, 1998 and played before Nov. 2, 1998 will count toward the playoffs even though the game may not have been reported to the MHSAA.
(9) A student may not change schools after the sixth playing date and become eligible to compete in the football playoffs at the second school.
(10) A team forfeiting game(s) because of the use of an ineligible player forfeits all playoff and bonus points which would have been earned for the game or games concerned. Opponents of the forfeiting team will not earn bonus points from the game in question and will not count that game in determining its playoff average.
(11) Prearranged league games will be figured into the scoring if designated prior to October 9. Games played after Sunday, Nov. 1, 1998 will not be figured into the 1998 playoff scoring. Leagues and conferences engaged in crossover matchups must submit to the MHSAA office prior to the start of the regular season, the exact method of matching teams in crossover games.
(12) Out-of-state games played before the selection of pre-regional qualifiers will be limited to a maximum of nine (9) games. Whenever a Michigan school or a school playing a Michigan team appears on the schedule of an out-of-state team after the ninth date on that schedule the last game(s) which does not otherwise contribute bonus points to to a Michigan school shall be deleted from the schedule.
(13) Out-of-state schools playing more than nine games continuing beyond Michigan’s final regular season date, will not have those final game/games’ bonus points counted for Michigan playoff standings.
(14) Schools may play the same opponent twice during the season and receive separate playoff and bonus point totals for each game.
(15) Schools are responsible for knowing their playoff total and average score. If a discrepancy occurs, the MHSAA is to be notified by the aggrieved school before 4:30 p.m. Thursday of that week. Changes made after 4:30 p.m. Thursday may not be reflected in the next release of team standings.
(16) Four qualifying teams in each region will be determined after the ninth week as follows:
(a) A minimum of seven games must be played to be declared a winner.
(b) If a school with a qualifying average in a Region chooses not to play, the school with the next best qualifying average will have the opportunity to compete.
(17) If two or more qualifying teams finish with identical point average ratings within a Region, the qualifying school will be selected as follows:
(a) If two teams tie for a pre-regional playoff position and the tied teams played each other, the winner will qualify. If more than two teams tie for a playoff position their regular season game will not be a factor at this point in resolving the tie.
(b) If a tie still exists, the wins of your opponents will be totaled and divided by the total games played and the highest percentage will be selected. Ties count as games played.
(c) If the tie still exists, the team will be selected by who was leading at the end of the third quarter the greater number of times during the season. If a tie still exists, apply the procedure to the end of the second quarter and to the end of the first quarter if necessary.
(d) If a tie still exists, the team will be selected by a coin toss conducted by the MHSAA staff in the East Lansing office.
(18) Changes in the designation of qualifying teams will not be made after 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 4, with one exception: if an ineligible player competed for a qualifying team during the regular season, those games will be forfeited and the next team in the ratings will qualify for the pre-regional competition.

Reporting Procedure
Five reporting agents have been selected to report each week’s results on forms provided by the MHSAA. Win/loss records will be directed to the MHSAA by the agents and all information will be placed on computer by Monday afternoon of each week. Information including placement of teams within each region and averages will be released to the news media each week after the fourth week. Releases will be made for publication each Wednesday, except the Final Week Team Standings. These will be made available not later than 1 p.m. on the Monday following the ninth week. The five agents who will submit scores each week are Del Newell, Kalamazoo Gazette; Chuck Klonke, Grosse Pointe News; Don Winger, Midland Daily News; Dennis Grall, Escanaba Daily Press; and Mike Pryson, Jackson Citizen Patriot.
It is necessary to have every score. Coaches should cooperate with their local news media in reporting each week’s game results.

Pre-Regional and Regional Pairings and Game Hosts
(1) The team with the highest playoff average in each region shall host the team with the fourth highest playoff average. The second place team shall host the school with the third highest playoff average.
If more than one team has the same playoff average, the tie breaking procedure previously described shall determine the host team.
(2) When the distance between competing schools is within 75 miles, the host school will determine the day and time of game. Games may be played 7:30 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. Saturday afternoon or 7:30 p.m. Saturday. If the distance between schools is over 75 miles but less than 200 miles, agreement as to date and time must be made by both schools. If agreement is not reached, the game must be played Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m.
(3) An alternate site mutually agreed upon by the principals of the competing schools may be used whenever travel by one of the competing teams does not exceed 200 miles one-way.
(4) The MHSAA will determine the Pre-Regional or Regional game site whenever travel for one of the competing teams does exceed 200 miles one-way.
(5) In Region I, whenever the format dictates neutral sites as necessary for both games of the pre-regionals, geographical pairings will be used to determine opponents. The team with the higher computer point average will be host, and if the distance between those schools is still over 200 miles, a neutral site will be arranged by MHSAA staff.
(6) Regional championship games will be hosted by the team with the highest playoff average unless moved to a neutral site by the MHSAA because of the 200-mile limitation or by mutual agreement of the competing school principals.

General Regulations
(1) The 10-yard line overtime rule outlined in the Football Rule Book will be in effect for all playoff games. The “Mercy Rule” will be in effect during regular season and Playoffs.
(2) There is to be no practice on game fields the week prior to pre-regional, regionals, semifinal and final games (unless approved by the MHSAA). Host schools are exempt from this regulation. Qualifiers may not practice in the Silverdome once the playoff teams have been determined.
(3) A maximum of 50 players are allowed in uniform. Teams with more than 50 varsity players may include those players on their playoff rosters, except that sub-varsity players may not be brought up beyond the total of 50. A maximum of five (5) school coaches and four (4) managers/statisticians will be permitted in the team boxes during all playoff games. All persons not in uniform and near the side line must have a pass.
(4) A maximum of four (4) pre-regional, regional, semifinal SCOUTING PASSES will be given to competing schools for the game played in the opposite bracket of their class.
(5) Each competing school is to present three (3) legal game BALLS of its choice to the referee thirty minutes before the game. It is the school’s responsibility to obtain the balls immediately following the game.
(6) Schools are to make their own arrangements for SHOES to be worn on artificial turf. Those managers may be able to assist with arrangements upon request.
(7) Cheerleaders — A maximum of 12 cheerleaders in uniform, including mascots will be admitted and a maximum of 12 may lead cheers from the field. Schools with more than 10 varsity cheerleaders may include those cheerleaders during the Playoffs, but sub-varsity cheerleaders may not be brought up for the postseason games. Cheer squads shall follow either the “Specific Safety Guidelines” listed in the recommended MHSAA Cheerleading Guidelines or the safety guidelines approved by their local school district for regular season cheerleading, whichever is more restrictive & limiting. Local school districts are RESPONSIBLE for enforcing safety restrictions which are more limiting than the MHSAA guidelines. All cheer squads shall adhere to all guidelines provided by the tournament manager.
(8) Schools should furnish their own TEAM PHYSICIAN. The host manager, however, is required to have medical personnel on duty and to secure emergency ambulance service if possible. Schools are to notify the MHSAA if they do not have a physician for the Final game.
(9) Coaches of qualifying teams will cooperate in FILM EXCHANGES with opposing teams unless both schools agree not to do so (see section on videotaping).
(10) Host schools may not conduct 50-50 drawings or special raffles at MHSAA tournament games.
(11) Merchandise sold at playoff sites must be from an approved MHSAA program.

Tobacco and Alcohol Policy
For coaches and officials at all MHSAA tournaments, use of tobacco products of any kind within sight of players and spectators and use of alcohol during a contest or at any time before it on the day of the contest is prohibited.

Enforcement
Tobacco — It is not intended that a violation of the tobacco policy should lead to immediate ejection of a coach. He or she should be reminded of the policy and reported to his or her school administration after the contest. Only if the coach is unwilling to comply promptly should he or she be disqualified from coaching at the event.
Officials should be reminded of the tobacco policy and reported in writing by the tournament manager to the MHSAA.
Alcohol — Historically, officials promptly disqualified coaches, and tournament managers immediately replaced officials who were under the influence of alcohol; and no change in such procedures is intended by these policies.

Game Time
Pre-Regional and Regional Games — See preceding page, “Game Hosts” (No. 2).

Semifinal Games — The games will be played Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. as predetermined. At sites where two games are scheduled, game times will be 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., with separate admissions for each game. If local conditions allow, game management may schedule consecutive games with one admission of $5. Semifinal games scheduled for the Superior Dome in Marquette may be played on either Friday night or on Saturday morning/afternoon as necessary.

Final Games — All Final games will be played at the Pontiac Silverdome in two sessions on two separate days. On Friday Session One will include: Class D game played at 10 a.m., and the Class A game played at 1 p.m. Session Two will include: Class C game played at 5 p.m., and the Class B game played at 8 p.m. On Saturday the same schedule will be followed for Classes DD and AA (Session Three) and CC and BB (Session Four).

Uniforms
(All dark and light jersey colors may be switched if mutually agreed upon by the two competing teams.)

Pre-Regional and Regional Games — Home teams (teams with the highest playoff average are to wear dark colored jerseys and the visiting team light colored jerseys.

Semifinal Games — Home teams (teams from Regional No. 1 & 3 are to wear dark colored jerseys; visiting teams are to wear light jerseys.

Final Games — Winners at the semifinal level from the Region 3 & 4 games will be the home teams and wear dark colored jerseys. Winners from the Semifinal Region 1 & 2 games will be the visitors and wear light colored jerseys.

Pregame — Public Address Announcer and Timers
The host Pre-Regional, Regional, Semifinal, and Final management will select the P.A. announcers and timers.

Pregame Time Schedule (to go on clock):
24 minutes before kickoff — start clock
(place 20 minutes clock)
20 minute mark — coin toss
7 minute mark — National Anthem
(teams are to cease warm-up activities)
00 minute mark — Introductions
(kickoff team will be introduced first)
kickoff immediately after introductions

Pregame and Halftime
Entertainment for All Playoff Games
Participation by school bands is optional. If the participating schools do not have a band the MHSAA will determine the pregame and halftime entertainment at the Finals. The following will prevail if both bands desire to participate.

Pregame — Bands from schools designated “home” teams may play the National Anthem. If they prefer not to play, the “visiting” team band may play.
Halftime — Bands from school designated “visitors” may perform the first seven (7) minutes of the half. The “home team” band may perform the second seven (7) minutes of the half. Time allotted includes entering and leaving the field. Bands must be off the field at least 3 minutes before the start of the second half.
Schools may use pompon routines, choral or other school groups if they wish, but the maximum time allotted for their school is seven minutes. Local management is not to be expected to furnish risers, back drops, etc. If a school chooses not to perform, the opposing school may use their allotted time (not to exceed 14 Minutes). If a specific announcer is required for the halftime show, arrangements must be made the preceding week with managers of pre-regional, regional and semifinal game sites. Schools competing in the finals must make arrangements with the MHSAA office.

Trophies and Medals
Regional — A trophy will be awarded to the winning team at each regional playoff game. In addition, 50 medals will be awarded to each winning team.

Finals — Trophies will be awarded to the winner and runner-up school in each class after the final game; 50 medals will be awarded to each winning and runner-up team in each class. Members of the MHSAA Representative Council will make postgame award presentations.

Officials
The Football Officials Assignment Committee will assign officials to all football playoff games. Officials selected to work pre-regional and regional games will receive $40 per game, plus 15 cents per mile round trip from official’s home city to game city. Semifinal and final game officials will receive $50 per game plus 15 cents per mile round trip from officials home city to game city.
Coin Toss — At 20 minutes prior to game time, the officials will call team captains together for the coin toss. Visiting team captain will call first.
Chain Crew — The home management is to select a three-person chain crew. It is recommended that registered officials should work the yardage chains; however, local management may use their home crew if they have been regulars in that capacity. If possible the crew is to be in full officials uniform and will be reimbursed $15 per individual, per game (no mileage).
Officials — Are not to be involved with any microphone hook-ups, T.V. or radio interviews — no exceptions.
Timeouts — All time-outs are not to be less than 70 seconds in length. This includes breaks between quarters and after scoring plays.

Program
Host schools during the first three rounds of playoffs will provide their own programs.

Finals Program
Teams qualifying for playoff competition are required to prepare and submit the following materials to the MHSAA office by Nov. 20, for use in the souvenir programs produced for the finals:
1. Horizontal team photograph, 5 x 7, with typed identification (photo must be color).
2. Team Data Form with the following information:
a. Numerical Roster
b. School Facts
c. Season Results
d. Head Coach Information
e. Miscellaneous Information
f. Statistical Data
g. Probable Lineups

Information kits will be sent directly to schools qualifying for the regionals. Schools advancing to the finals shall provide a statistical data update to the MHSAA by Nov. 22.

Press, Radio, and Television
All requests for press space are to be directed to the game manager (MHSAA for Final games). Radio and television requests for all games are to be directed to the MHSAA. Managers are not to permit broadcasts without clearance from the MHSAA.

Videotaping or Filming
Competing Schools — Teams will exchange videos/films of games played two weeks prior to competition unless both schools agree on another arrangement. Schools refusing to cooperate will be reported to the MHSAA. A competing school desiring to videotape or film a pre-regional, regional, semifinal and/or final football playoff game in which that school competes must receive permission to reserve space in the press box from the tournament manager. Under no conditions may the tape/film be used for scouting purposes by schools other than those involved in the event filmed. Films of losing teams in the playoffs taken at the pre-regional, regional or semifinal games may not be used for scouting purposes by winning teams in the opposite bracket. Schools wishing to videotape/film games at other sites may do so without securing advanced permission but must film from the stands if press box space is not available. The film/tape is not to be used to second guess decisions made by game officials and may not be sold, rented, or loaned for commercial purposes.

Media Taping/Filming — The filming/taping of MHSAA events must be cleared through the Michigan High School Athletic Association. Members of the media may, without paying a fee, arrange with the local tournament manager to take clips of MHSAA events for public showing. Under no condition may an entire athletic event be filmed or taped for showing without advance clearance through the MHSAA and the local tournament manager.

Spectator Videotaping/Filming for all Football Playoff Games — Spectators may videotape games without prior consent of the tournament manager with the understanding that the tape/film may not be sold, leased, borrowed, or rented for commercial purposes. The tournament manager should not permit spectators to interfere with the view of other spectators or news media personnel covering the games.

Live Television Coverage — Radio Coverage — No radio or television origination is permitted at any site until application has been made through the MHSAA, fee paid and authorization given by the MHSAA through the tournament manager.

Delayed Television — Arrangements for taped delayed broadcasts must be made through the MHSAA office and only one origination will be allowed at a tournament center. A fee is required for each football game at each site. Contact the MHSAA office for additional information.

Finals Television — The Finals of the MHSAA Football Playoffs will be televised statewide on a tape-delayed basis on FOX Sports Detroit.

Finals Press Conference
At the conclusion of each championship game at the Silverdome, each coach will be required to attend a press conference to meet with the media covering the contest. Coaches may bring up to three players to the press conference.

Pre-Regional, Regional,
Semifinals Tickets — Passes
All tickets for single-session Pre-Regional, Regional and Semifinal games are $4. At neutral sites where multiple games are held and a single admission is charged, tickets will be priced at $5 each. Each competing school at the pre-regional, regional and semifinals may purchase an allotment of tickets, not to exceed 40 percent of the stadium capacity, from the host manager. Each competing school will receive 10 game passes from the manager to be used for crowd management purposes. Band members in full uniform representing competing schools will be admitted without charge. In addition, there are 19 MHSAA Representative Council members with passes valid for all MHSAA tournaments. No other passes will be honored including league passes, coaches passes, etc.

Final Games—Tickets—Passes
All tickets for Final games will be $8 per session which will include the cost of parking in the Silverdome lots. There will be no separate gate charge for parking during the Finals. The ticket holder will be admitted to both games of the double header. Pass-outs, however, will not be given at any time during the contests. A separate admission will be required each time an individual enters the stadium. Each competing school will receive 10 passes to be used for crowd management purposes. There will be no sale of reserved seats for Final games.

Meeting for Representatives of Schools Competing in Finals
A meeting for finalist school principals, athletic directors or other designated school representatives will be held at the offices of the MHSAA on Sunday following semifinal games (Nov. 22) at 11 a.m. final game and band procedures at the Silverdome will be reviewed, passes distributed, housing, meal and other arrangements will be discussed.
Tickets will be available at this meeting. Schools are encouraged to bring a check for the number of advanced game tickets they wish to purchase.

Final Game and Fan Seating
Teams designated as home teams are to sit on the press box side of the field. Home team spectators in Classes A-AA and B-BB are encouraged to sit in sections 102, 103, 104 and 105. Home team spectators in classes C-CC and D-DD are encouraged to sit in sections 129, 130, 131 and 132.
Visiting team spectators in Classes A-AA and B-BB should sit in sections 118, 119, 120 and 121. Spectators from visiting teams in Classes C-CC and D-DD are encouraged to sit in sections 113, 114, 115 and 116.

Finances
MHSAA member schools may not charge a rental fee for MHSAA tournaments. Host schools will be reimbursed by the MHSAA for all necessary and reasonable expenses incurred in hosting games. In addition, the following stipends will be granted to schools which host Playoff games whether they are competing schools or neutral sites:
Pre-Regional—
10 percent of net receipts or $300 minimum
Regional—
10 percent of net receipts or $400 minimum
Semi-final—
10 percent of net receipts or $500 minimum

Pre-Regional, Regional and Semifinals — Each competing team traveling to a tournament site will receive a reimbursement fee plus mileage from school city to game city. Allowances are as follows:
One-way mileage
051 to 100 miles—$2 per mile
101 to 150 miles—$3 per mile
151 to 250 miles—$4 per mile
251 to 350 miles—$5 per mile
351 miles & over—$6 per mile

Reimbursement Fees
Pre-Regional $300
Regional $400
Semifinal $500
Final $750

Mileage is 50 miles deductible; therefore, teams competing at a site less than 50 miles away will not receive mileage. Example: Team A competes at a site 60 miles from its city.
Team A will receive $20 for mileage

Overnight Lodging Fees
A stipend of $500 will be paid in all rounds of the playoffs to teams which are required by distance and/or schedule to have an overnight stay which is approved by MHSAA staff.

Final Games — Each competing team will receive $750 plus mileage provisions as previously described.

Parking and Concessions
The MHSAA discourages charging for the parking of cars and other vehicles at football playoff sites. If directed parking is necessary schools may charge for the service. It is recommended that the price for such service be $1 for all vehicles unless the customary charge during the regular season is higher. In no event shall parking charges exceed $2 per vehicle.
If parking fees are assessed, it is not acceptable to list expenses for parking attendants as a game management expenditure.
Concessions will be operated for profit by host school management.

1998 Regions--Click here for a list of football schools by region

FOOTBALL — CHANGES
(Representative Council Action — May 1998)

At its May 1998 meeting the MHSAA Representative Council approved the following concerning the 1998 football season.
1) Regulation II, Section 14 of the MHSAA Handbook was amended to include the following interpretation of filming and videotaping: “member schools may prohibit filming and videotaping of practice sessions and intrasquad scrimmages.” (i.e., schools may not prohibit videotaping of intersquad scrimmages).
2) Require that all varsity football games involving Michigan teams ending in a tie score be decided by the MHSAA-approved tie-breaking overtime procedure published in the National Federation Rule Book.
3) Revise administration of the mercy rule as follows:
The running clock, 35-point margin mercy rule will be used for all football games, regular season and playoffs, varsity and sub-varsity, high school and junior high/middle school.
After the first half, any time the score differential reaches 35 points or more, the following changes, and only these changes, will be made regarding rules determining when the clock will and will not be stopped:
The clock will run continuously except for the following situations when it will be stopped:

T I P S
1) Timeouts (charged to a team)
2) Intermission (between 3rd and 4th quarters, and after a score)
3) Penalty enforcement (whistle to ready-to-play)
4) Safety reasons (injuries, etc.)

Normal timing procedures will resume if the point differential is reduced to less than 35 points.
NOTE: The use of this option does not preclude the use of Rule 3-1-3 which reads: “A period or periods may be shortened in any emergency by agreement of the opposing coaches and the referee. By mutual agreement of the opposing coaches and the referee any remaining periods may be shortened at any time or the game may be terminated.”

MHSAA 1998 Semifinal Football Games

All games will be played on Saturday, Nov. 21, 1998. Game time will be 1 p.m. unless one site is scheduled for two games. In that event there will be two separate sessions at 11:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. or a doubleheader at 11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.
Assignments to semifinal sites will be made by the MHSAA staff following the completion of regional championship games. A public release will be made Monday morning, Nov. 16, 1998.
Home teams (teams from Regions 1-3 are to wear dark jerseys; visiting teams from Regions 2-4 are to wear light jerseys.

Semifinal Formula For All Classes
Regional
Home/Visitor
1 vs. 2
3 vs. 4

Semifinal Sites

The MHSAA has made preliminary arrangements to host semifinal games at favorable sites throughout the state. Although the need to secure sites for 16 games makes it impossible to provide all-weather surfaces in each case, the MHSAA will select from quality fields made available by cooperating high schools and colleges. Actual assignment of games to sites will be made after regional competition has been completed and matchups are known. Although geography will be taken into consideration in assigning games, field quality & weather will also be factors in final selection.
Facilities that will be considered include the following: Port Huron High School, Lansing Sexton High School, Lansing Everett High School. Marshall High School, Mt. Pleasant High School, East Jackson High School, Jackson High School*, Grand Rapids Houseman Field*, Alma College, Northern Michigan University*, Saginaw Valley State University, Flint-Atwood Stadium*, Bay City Western High School, Rochester High School, Gaylord High School, Hillsdale High School, Chippewa Valley High School, Haslett High School, Cheboygan High School, DeWitt High School, St. Ignace High School, Newberry High School, Grayling High School, Traverse City Central High School, Portland High School and Clare High School.
In addition, several sites in the northern part of the state are available if they are needed.
*=Possible Doubleheader

1998 FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP GAMES
Friday-Saturday, November 27-28, 1998
(All games at Pontiac Silverdome, Pontiac, Michigan)

Friday, November 27
Session I--D--10:00 a.m. ; A--1 p.m.
Session II--C--5 p.m.; B--8 p.m.

Saturday, November 28
Session III--DD 10:00 a.m. ; AA--1 p.m.
Session IV--CC 5 p.m.; BB--8 p.m.

1999 WOMEN IN SPORTS LEADERSHIP PLANNING COMMITTEE
East Lansing, April 23, 1998

Members Present:
Carol Brewis, Athletic Director, Dearborn-Divine Child H.S.
Gillie David, Official, Waterford
Delores Elswick, Athletic Director, Renaissance H.S.
Ann Hayward, Teacher/Coach, Greenville H.S.
Meg Seng, Teacher/Coach, Ann Arbor Greenhills H.S.
Deb Traxinger, Teacher/Coach, Grand Ledge H.S.
Linda VanTol, Coach, Essexville-Garber H.S.

Members Absent:
David Dye, Executive Director, Ruster Foundation
Julie Gottschalk, Athletic Director, Kinde-North Huron H.S.
Rosemary Gross, Athletic Director, Dearborn H.S.
Linda Harland, Teacher/Coach, Flushing H.S.
Onalee Lark, Coach/Counselor, Petoskey H.S.
Terri McFarland, Basketball Coach, Holland H.S.
Kathy McGee, Flint-Luke M. Powers Catholic H.S.

Staff Members Present:
Sally Fisher, East Lansing
Suzanne M. Martin, East Lansing (Recorder)

The 1999 Women In Sports Leadership Planning Committee members met in the MHSAA office building with Suzanne Martin and Sally Fisher to plan for the 11th Conference.
The MHSAA staff reported to the committee attendance figures for the 1998 Conference; 574 total attendance with 352 from the ranks of student-athletes. This is the second consecutive year in which student-athletes out numbered adults in attendance. Record numbers attended the banquet and awards luncheon. Also 1998 marked the first conference in which the Fellowship of Christian Athletes offered a breakfast presentation. One hundred fifty conference attendees elected to attend that session.

CONFERENCE SITE, REGISTRATION DEADLINE AND ATTENDANCE LIMITATIONS—For the second year committee members have chosen to impose a registration limitation of 500 people and continue to conduct the conference at the Sheraton Lansing Hotel. The practice will continue which requires registrations to be received at the MHSAA office by the established DEADLINE DATE (Monday, February 1, 1999) and NO conference walk-ins will be allowed. The 1999 Conference will be held on Sunday and Monday, February 7 and 8. On Saturday, February 6th a Level I and II PACE Program will be offered at the same site.

WISL CONFERENCE REGISTRATION BROCHURE—Committee members suggested to MHSAA staff to use the Registration brochure as the avenue to promote the following:
* Conference Deadline date
* Registration limitation of 500
* Walk-in registrants will not be accommodated
* Describe dress code for meal functions
* Promote BUY, SELL, TRADE function

CONFERENCE OPPORTUNITIES RE- TURN —It was determined that some of the 1998 sessions and additional opportunities should be offered again in 1999. Therefore, staff was directed to make arrangements for the following:

1. Secure the Apple SportsPlex, an indoor recreation center, for student-athletes and adults on Sunday evening, February 7, following the banquet. The registration fee will be increased to cover some of this expense.
2. Invite the Fellowship of Christian Athletes to offer a breakfast session again.
3. Request the Student Leadership sessions directed, by David Dye, Executive Director, WBA Ruster Foundation, be offered twice during the conference. The two opportunities allow many more student-athletes to attend this highly sought after event.
4. Open the BUY, SELL, TRADE area again. Staff is requested to promote this opportunity extensively in the registration brochure so more coaches and athletes will bring athletic clothing, equipment, related video tapes, pictures and books to sell or trade.
5. Invite coaches or players of the WNBA to make a presentation.

CONFERENCE FORMAT CHANGE—Committee members expressed concern with regards to the lack of respect shown to the WISL Award Recipient during the luncheon. It seems many attendees chose to leave the luncheon after the meal, but before the award is presented. For this reason it has been suggested that the luncheon function begin with the award ceremony immediately followed by the lunch.

WISL CONFERENCE FAVOR—The committee overwhelmingly requested staff to bring back the tote bag for the 1999 Conference favor.

SUGGESTED TOPICS FOR WORKSHOP SESSION —

1. STUDENTS TRACK:
a. Academic and Career Opportunities for Women
b. Why Officiate? - Presented by a female official.
c. Sports Medicine and Simple First Aid Procedures
d. Strength Training
e. Athletic Directors and Coaches outline the Incentives that would get you Involved in Officiating
f. The Importance of Team Captains from an Officials Point of View
g. Self Defense for Student Athletes
h. Alcohol and Drug Abuse Prevention

2. COACHES TRACK
a. How to Select Team Captains
b. Psychology of Coaches - Their Reasons for Negative Reaction to Officials
c. Sports burnout from Specialization

3. CROSS-OVER TOPIC SUGGESTIONS:
a. Dress for success.
b. Specific Exercises for Athletes by Sport
c. Round Table Discussion - List several ideas on how to recruit young people to become officials

4. ADMINISTRATION/COACHING TOPIC SUGGESTIONS:
a. How to Deal with Unruly or Over-demanding Parents
b. Coaching Styles - Players’ point of view; officials’ point of view
c. Fund Raising

SUGGESTED GENERAL SESSION SPEAKERS—

1. A Sports Humorist
2. Chris Volz - University of Minnesota
3. Wendy Hilliard, President of Womens’ Sports Foundation
4. A Female hockey player
5. Mary Struckhoff, IHSA, Big 10 Official
6. Joan Powell, teacher, coach, official, Colorado
7. Sheryl Solberg, NDHSAA, official, North Dakota

JUNIOR HIGH/MIDDLE SCHOOL CHEER RULES & COMPETITION FORMAT COMMITTEE
East Lansing, April 28, 1998

Members Present:
Gloria Berger, Coach, Hart Middle School
Rochelle Compau, Coach/Official, Grand Rapids
Paula Cunningham, Coach, Hartland
Linda Parker, Coach, Novi H.S.
Julie Smith, Coach, Gull Lake H.S.
Keith Froelick, Athletic Director, Okemos H.S.

Members Absent:
Linda Fox, Coach, Charlotte
Terry Mapes, Coach, Onsted H.S.
Gary Morris, Athletic Director, Bishop Foley H.S.

Staff Members Present:
Suzanne M. Martin, East Lansing (Recorder)
Monique Hall, East Lansing
The Junior High/Middle School Cheer Committee met to review cheer rules and competition format for Junior High/Middle School cheer competition.
The MHSAA submitted to the Committee for approval Cheer Manual editorial changes that had come to the staffs’ attention throughout the season. Those corrections will appear in the 1998-99 Competitive Cheer Manual. The remainder of the meeting focused on fine tuning information provided in the Cheer Manual and Spirit Rules Book Insert.
The following information is provided in sequential order of the agenda and will include recommendations to the MHSAA Representative Council.

STUNTING LIMITATIONS

Extensively discussed was allowing extension level stunts due to some schools having student-athletes that can execute them safely, but the decision remained to prohibit them. Points made:

* Development of the sport is important, but developing too fast sometimes results in setbacks.
* Is it important for this age group to be involved in the opportunity to be a part of a sport team?
* Some teams that are not prepared will attempt this stunt level which highly increases chance of injury.
* Extended stunts, extended suspended splits and v-sits/straddle sits received continued approval with emphasis on appropriate spotting.
* The skill and stunt chart currently listed in the Cheer Manual for Junior High/Middle School will be revised to reflect spotter requirements for this age group.

SKILL AND STUNT CHART

BEGINNING
Skills
No change
Stunts
No spotter required, but suggested:
Pony stand
Thigh stand
Shoulder sit
Double base pony stand

DELETE double base extension prep

One spotter required:
Elevator
Shoulder stand
Double based shoulder stand
Double base split catch
Suspended splits

INTERMEDIATE
Skills
No change
Stunts
Russian lift - spotter on waist
Triple base Deadman with spotter
Double based Elevator Boxed out with
spotter
ADVANCED
Skills
No Change
Stunts
Triple based straddle lift/V-sit with
spotter
Chair with spotter
Torch with spotter
DELETE Liberty
Extended suspended splits with
spotter

TEAM LIMITATIONS
Committee review of the current 16 team members allowed in competition was reinforced and the overwhelming majority sited a strong desire to allow as many students as possible to compete at this level.
A review of the difficulty points chart reveals that by sheer numbers a team of 16 would outscore teams with fewer competitors. However, the committee agreed that with the proposed changes in execution deductions the difference in numbers should be a wash.

OTHER SUGGESTIONS/CHANGES

* Define Touch, Watch, and Away spot techniques in the Manual
* Judges shall be reminded that extra jumps in Round 2 shall be scored at the difficulty value listed on the scoresheet.
* Judges need to be more accurate in judging tumbling and jumps, a mediocre performance should be scored as a five (5) not a seven (7) or eight (8).
* Junior High/Middle School teams will use the same precision drill if approved by the MHSAA Representative Council.
* It was also suggested the DEODERANT ROLL will be more appropriately called the “Bent Elbow Counter-clockwise Roll.”
SUGGESTIONS FOR PUBLICATION AND DISTRIBUTION

* Reprint and distribute the Junior High/Middle School information in the Cheer Manual for all member schools.
* Provide a listing of Junior High/Middle School Competitions on the MHSAA Web Site.
* Mail information not only to the Athletic Directors, but to every Junior High/Middle School Cheer Coach.
* Delete Junior High/Middle School information from the Rules book insert.

NEW RELATED MATERIAL

* A difficulty chart will be created and published in the Junior High/Middle School section of the Cheer Manual.
* A Round 2 Scoresheet will be created to meet the needs for Junior High/Middle School judging.

RECOMMENDATIONS TO THE REPRESENTATIVE COUNCIL

The work of this committee did not generate changes that need to be approved by the Representative Council. However, recognition of their efforts which resulted in reinforcing the current limitations and procedures, I believe, needs to be noted.

This committee was called upon to work with the MHSAA staff because the MHSAA Junior High/Middle School committee indicated a review was in order at this time. Hopefully similar actions will be taken in the future so that rules and procedures of an emerging sport can be updated as deemed appropriate.

APPROVED/SANCTIONED MEETS

MHSAA and National Federation Sanctioning Procedure:
The following situations must be approved by the MHSAA before any meet or tournament held:

1. Those events which are sponsored by other than member schools and held within the state.
2. Those events between member schools of Michigan and bordering states (regardless of the number of schools involved) and hosted by a member school. The bordering state association must also grant approval for such event through the MHSAA.

National Federation Sanctioning is required for:

1. any interstate contest involving three or more states or four or more schools where one or more of the schools is from a state which does not border Michigan; and
2. any interstate contest sponsored by a non-school organization;
3. any international contest.

Application for sanctioning of such meets must be made through the MHSAA at least 30 days prior to the contest. All sanctioned or approved meets are listed below.
(Includes requests received and approved by June 24, 1998 for events to be held in August, September and October.)
*Dates preceded by an asterisk are National Federation sanctioned.
**Dates preceded by two asterisks are border state approved.

August--

20 - Jayhawk Golf Invitational - Muskegon

September—

**12 -Boardman Cross Country Invitational, Boardman, OH
(MI, PA, NY, WV, VA) 600 mile round trip limitation

*19 - Holly Cross Country Invitational, Davisburg, MI
(MI and OH)

* 19 - Jefferson Cross Country Invitational, Monroe, MI
(MI and OH)

**24 - Northwestern High School Cross Country Invitational, Lake Nebagamon, WI
(WI, MN, MI) 600 mile round trip limitation

*26 - Cardinal Stritch Cross Country Invitational, Oregon, OH
(MI and OH)

October—

3 - Central States School for the Deaf Volleyball Tournament, Flint, MI

*3 - Muirfield Golf Invitational, Dublin, OH
(MI and OH)

17 - MISCA Meet - Ypsilanti, MI (Note: The MISCA Meet counts as one of the allowable team competitions. A coach must be a MISCA member to enter team members into the meet.