The Intramural Sports Program is one of the largest co-curricular activity programs that complement the formal academic curriculum. It offers extensive opportunities to currently enrolled McKendree University students, faculty, staff and their spouses/partners in a number of recreational, competitive and structured activities each year. Participation in the program is voluntary and determined by interest. Intramural participation can provide one with opportunities to have fun, learn new sports, meet people from other cultures, test one's physical ability as well as offer a break from routine. Team sports generally take on a league structure and a post-season tournament to determine champions. Special events range from one-day to several day tournaments. In most events, skill levels and divisions are established to allow competition for men's, women's and co-educational teams.
The Intramural Sports Program is a department of the Office of Student Affairs. The Recreational Gym contains the Intramural Office and the Equipment Desk.
The program works in cooperation with the Office of Student Affairs, in their commitment to foster an environment where all individuals are treated with integrity, dignity, and worth. Discrimination on the basis of race, sex, religion, age, color, creed, national or ethnic origin, physical, mental, or sensory disability, marital status, sexual orientation, and status as a Vietnam-era or disabled veteran is prohibited by McKendree University. Participants are encouraged to come in and meet with the Director regarding any issue, which interferes with the delivery of program services. In order to ensure the accessibility of programs and services, we encourage anyone needing information, assistance and/or accommodation of any kind to call Craig Robertson at (618) 537-6420. Every effort will be made to find ways to assist with any special needs in a confidential manner.
Participants are encouraged to provide feedback and/or concerns regarding activities and/or student officials/supervisors. Feedback can include completing a participant's evaluation form of officials available on our website at www.mckendree.edu/intramurals, meeting with the Director or Intramural Coordinators, through campus email.
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II. HEALTH, INJURIES AND INSURANCE
The Intramural Sports Program will provide initial emergency care, such as the provision of bandages, ice, or immobilization, to any participant injured during their contest (notify staff of all injuries). THE INTRAMURAL PROGRAM WILL NOT PROVIDE SERVICES TO PREPARE OR MAINTAIN A PLAYER'S READINESS TO PARTICIPATE. Participants need to bring their own tape, etc. to prepare themselves to play.
1. Intramural Sports@McK DOES NOT carry health or accident insurance for the participants. Each participant should check their personal coverage and be certain that their medical insurance is adequate and current before participating in any activity.
2. It is the responsibility of every person participating in intramural sports to ascertain whether they have any health conditions which make it inadvisable to participate in that sport. McKendree University and Intramural Sports@McK DO NOT assume that responsibility. Persons who are uncertain should consult their physician.
3. The Intramural staff should be notified of ALL INJURIES sustained during intramural competition. If needed, the participant will be given general first aid and referred to their physician and/or Student Health Services. An ambulance may be dispatched TO ASSESS AN INJURY (PARTICULARLY IN THE EVENT OF HEAD, NECK, and BACK OR MAJOR JOINT TRAUMA). COST FOR AMBULANCE TREATMENT/TRANSPORTATION IS THE PARTICIPANT'S RESPONSIBILITY. An accident/injury report will be completed for all injuries and a copy will be available to you. This form may be necessary for your insurance company.
4. Health Services is open five days a week and is available for treatment of most injuries. Student Health Service is located on the main floor of Clark Hall (ext. 6503).
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III. SAFETY
The safety of all that participate in the program is of utmost importance to the organization and administration of each activity. Institutional resources are used to establish procedures to minimize the inherent risks to participants, spectators and personnel. Such procedures include scheduling, sport rule modifications, trained personnel, player control, and acknowledgment of risk forms.
In an effort to maintain a safe playing area, all participants are to adhere to the following BLOOD RULE: Any player who is bleeding must be substituted for until the bleeding stops. An intramural staff member or game official has the authority to remove the player. If by removing the player who is bleeding, the team falls below the minimum number necessary to play (sport specific), the following will apply:
The game clock will stop and a maximum of five (5) minutes will be allowed for the player to stop the bleeding. Either an intramural staff member or game official must approve the player to re-enter. If the bleeding is not stopped within the allotted five (5) minutes the team will forfeit the game. THE ALLOWANCE IS ONLY FOR PLAYERS WHO ARE BLEEDING WHEN THE TEAM CANNOT CONTINUE TO PLAY WITHOUT THEM.
In all supervised activities an IM Staff member will be available to assist a bleeding player and determine whether the individual may resume play.
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IV. ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY
Individuals who participate in the McKendree Intramural Program must sign an entry/roster form prior to their participation. The entry/roster form includes the following ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY STATEMENT:
I will participate in Intramural Sports and understand that I have been encouraged to procure insurance which would provide for general medical benefits and health and accident coverage for injury or loss I may incur.
In consideration for the opportunity to participate in the designated sports activity, I voluntarily agree to assume all risks involved in my participation or traveling to or from it. I understand that if I voluntarily participate, I expose myself to risk of personal injury and/or death and property damage or loss including, but not limited to, serious bodily injury, paralysis, or death.
I have reviewed the eligibility rules and am currently affiliated with McKendree University and have signed this official roster before my participation in the program.
I also recognize that there are both foreseeable and unforeseeable risks of injury or death that may occur that McKendree cannot specifically anticipate and list here.
I release McKendree University, the McKendree University Board of Trustees, and any subdivision or unit of McKendree University, its officers, employees, and agents, from any and all liability, claims, costs, expenses, injuries, and/or losses, that I may sustain as a result of my participation in Intramural Sports and the listed event. My participation includes, but is not limited to, travel to and from the event in a private or public vehicle, and any activity connected with the event itself, and while using equipment or facilities whether on or off McKendree University property.
I have carefully read this document, understand its contents, and am fully informed about this event and circumstances and am satisfied that I can safely participate in this event. I am aware that this document is a contract with McKendree University. I, or my parents/legal guardians, if I am under the age of eighteen, sign it freely and voluntarily.
I sign this form agreeing to play in the spirit of fair play & sportsmanship. I understand & agree to play within the guidelines of the intramural sportsmanship system. Further, I understand that failure to adhere to the sportsmanship system will jeopardize my individual & team's future participation.
I hereby grant further permission to Intramural Sports@McK to be photographed, without further compensation, understanding that is intended for publication or promotional purposes in print media, newspaper, television, video, motion picture, or web site on the internet. I additionally consent to the use of my name and/or interview comments in connection with the publication or promotional purposes in print media, newspaper, television, video, motion picture, or web site on the Internet.
Team managers shall review the intramural eligibility and sportsmanship rules and discuss them with team member(s). The manager shall certify that individuals on their team are currently affiliated with McKendree and are eligible for intramural participation and have signed their names to the official entry/roster (ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY) form before their participation in the activity/program.
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V. UNITS OF COMPETITION AND SKILL CLASSIFICATION
Competition is divided into three divisions: coed, men, and women. In the coed division, men and women participate and special rules are in effect to equalize competition.
When demand warrants, Intramurals will offer two skill levels of competition: competitive and recreational. Each player or team is encouraged to select the level that best suits his or her skill and interest. Below is a description of the two skill levels and the playoff qualifying system for each. To assist in the continued development of women's participation, ALL WOMEN'S TEAMS NOT FORFEITING HALF OF THEIR LEAGUE CONTESTS WILL COMPETE IN A POST SEASON TOURNAMENT SPECIFIC TO THAT SPORT & SKILL LEVEL. Teams may move up for post-season play if they choose. (Section XVII)
"COMPETITIVE" leagues are for players whose skill level is average to above average, and who want to compete in a competitive environment. In individual and dual competition these individuals may be familiar with tournaments and are interested in the higher competition. ONLY TEAMS WITH A .500 RECORD AND ABOVE DURING LEAGUE PLAY (who have not forfeited half of their league contests) will compete in the intramural "Competitive" tournament to determine the "Competitive" Champion.
"RECREATIONAL" leagues are for players whose skill level is generally less than average, and are most interested in playing for pure enjoyment and may be new to the sport. THESE LEAGUES ARE GEARED FOR PARTICIPATION, NOT COMPETITION. In individual and dual activities these individuals are not frequent tournament players and may be playing for the first time. ONLY TEAMS .500 AND ABOVE DURING LEAGUE PLAY (who have not forfeited half of their league contests) will compete in the intramural "Recreational" tournament to determine the "Recreational" Champion.
AWARDS
Intramural Championship t-shirts are presented to both the “Competitive” and “Recreational” champions. Some sports have limits on the number of participants per team. Contact the Intramural Office for specific information.
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VI. ELIGIBILITY RULES AND REGULATIONS
The Intramural Sports Program was developed to provide competition/recreation during the academic year for currently enrolled McKendree students, faculty, staff, and their spouses/partners who do not participate in other organized sports on campus, and do not have the benefit of professional coaching, scheduling, equipment and facility use. Some eligibility restrictions are necessary to provide fair opportunities for participation. These restrictions reflect the philosophy of the Intramural Program at McKendree University. Individuals deemed ineligible to participate may seek reconsideration by written petition to the Director. This must be done prior to any participation. Violation of any eligibility rule will cause a contest to be automatically forfeited.
- Currently Enrolled Students: The program is open to all currently enrolled McKendree students, faculty, and staff. The program is also available to their spouses/partners. “Non-affiliated” players and other family members are ineligible.
- Sign Activity Roster (ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY): Players must put their name & signature (electronic signature if completing the online registration form) on the roster (ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY) form on the game score sheet before playing to be an eligible participant in the contest. A participant must sign her/his team's roster only once per sport season. Teams are not permitted to add members throughout the league season and playoff tournament unless specific guidelines are met. (See # 3 below)
- Playing on More Than One Team: A player may only play on one team (men's or women's), and also play on one team in the coed division in the same sport. However, a player may not play on more than one team in the same division even if they are in different skill levels (competitive or recreational). Once you have played for a team, you many not switch to another team. In the event that an injury forces a player to be unable to play for the remainder of the season, a team may replace the player at the discretion of the Intramural Director.
- Signing In: Each player must be listed (first and last name) on the score sheet prior to his or her participation in an IM contest. ALL names listed on a score sheet shall be considered as participating in that contest.
- Assumed Name: People who participate using an assumed name are ineligible.
- Varsity Award Winners: Students who have received a varsity award (letter) at McKendree or an institution of comparable athletic stature are not eligible to compete in that intramural sport or related sport until they have been out of that varsity sport for one full varsity season/semester and one full “off” season/semester.
- Intercollegiate Squad Members: Any individual who is or has been a member of a varsity, junior varsity, red shirt squad, or on an athletic scholarship at McKendree, or other institution of comparable athletic stature, is not eligible to compete in that intramural sport or related sport until they have been out of that sport for one full varsity season/semester and one full “off” season/semester. Membership shall include persons practicing or working out with the team whether they play or not. Students who try out for a varsity squad and are cut/quit are ineligible until they petition the Director, of Intramural Sports@McK for approval to compete in that intramural activity and/or related activity.
- Varsity Limits: Each team will be limited to two players who have been out of their varsity sport for one full varsity season/semester and one full “off” season/semester. These two players may be former varsity lettermen; former intercollegiate squad members, or individuals who have been or are currently coaching at McKendree in the same sport. This limit also applies to related sports. (See # 9 below)
- Varsity Athletes in Related Sports: Current varsity athletes may participate in other intramural activities outside of their varsity sport. However, they may not participate in that sport or its related activity, (i.e., football/flag football, baseball/softball, volleyball/4-on-4 volleyball; basketball/3-on-3, or free throw/3-point contest; tennis/tennis league, indoor tennis tournament).
- Professional Athlete: People who, for any form of compensation/income, compete or have competed in their sport or related intramural sport are ineligible. They may petition their eligibility as provided in Section VII.
- Eligibility of Opponents: When questioning the eligibility of an opponent it is mandatory for the protesting player(s)/team(s)/official(s) to "announce" those questions to the opposing designated captain AND game official(s) before the game is completed. The official(s), to indicate the contest is under protest, will designate the game as such. If warranted, player(s)/team(s)/official(s) need to follow up with a written protest within 24 hours after a league contest and within one hour after a tournament contest. (Section XV)
- The IM Sports Program reserves the right to handle eligibility violations without formal protest.
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VII. IM TEAM MANAGERS / CAPTAINS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Team managers/captains serve as a contact between Intramural Sports@McK and their team(s). Matters affecting the team are communicated to each team manager in most cases, and in turn they are responsible for conveying the information to the team(s) members. Whether you are a manager for a living group/organization, or for one team, visit the IM Office frequently and become acquainted with the staff and the organization of the program.
Responsibilities are divided into general duties that ensure proper steps are taken to enter a specific activity and to provide the information needed to enjoy participation, as well as on site responsibilities in the designation of a game captain. Teams are required to designate ONE individual playing in their contest to serve as the liaison between members of your team/spectators and the IM official(s)/staff member(s). The designated game captain does not need to serve as the general manager/captain and can be a different person each contest. However, it is necessary for this person to have a thorough knowledge and understanding of game rules, program policies and procedures.
General Manager/Captain responsibilities include:
- Inform members of your team or organization about activities available; foster and promote participation.
- Enter the team in the desired sport before or on the announced deadline date. As you register your team, you will turn in your team entry sheet and pay an entry fee if required.
- Represent, or see that the team is represented, at all intramural meetings for managers, sportsmanship/disciplinary matters and/or protests. Nonrepresentation may result in your team not being scheduled. Cooperate fully with all intramural employees while performing their duties.
- See that all players sign the official team entry/roster (ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY) form BEFORE they participate in intramural competition. If the online form is being completed, confirm that all players have read the ASSUMPTION AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY FORM.
- Be sure that all players on your team have knowledge of, and meet the eligibility regulations. If in doubt about a player's eligibility, have that person complete an eligibility petition form prior to participation.
- Study procedures governing participation in the program and the rules of each sport. Be sure that your players are also aware of these rules. Inform and educate all players and spectators affiliated with your team about the sportsmanship system. (Section XVII)
- Notify all team members of the date, place, time and color of jersey of each contest the individual and/or team plays. (Teams are responsible for checking the playoff tournament schedules in person). Brackets are posted on the IM bulletin boards located at the Equipment Desk in the Recreational Gym, on the IM website at www.mckendree.edu/intramurals, and emailed to the team captain/manager. (Section XVII) Only the brackets posted in the Recreational Gym and on the Intramural website will be considered official.
- If a conflict arises with your scheduled league or playoff contest, notify the IM Program within 24 hours of game time if you choose to forfeit or reschedule. All arrangements must be completed and approved by the IM Program. The IM Program will not accept verbal agreements between opponents. (Section XIII)
- Appoint a responsible member of your team to serve as the designated team captain if electing not to yourself.
- Assist the IM Sports Program with the recruitment of individuals interested in sports officiating.
Designated Game Captain responsibilities include:
a. Check in with the official(s) on site before your scheduled game and fill out your score sheet legibly with members of your team who will participate. Verify that all are eligible to participate.
b. Cooperate fully with officials/student staff regarding enforcement of policies and procedures.
c. Provide extra personnel, such as scorekeepers when required.
Maintain control of your team and spectator behavior in terms of conduct, safety and sportsmanship before, during and after your intramural game. You will be held responsible and shall not allow team members to participate if they have been consuming alcohol and/or drugs prior to your contest.
In the event a player and/or spectator is ejected from the game assume immediate responsibility for ensuring the player(s)/spectator(s) cooperate and leave the vicinity within the allotted three (3) minutes. IM employees will not be responsible for communicating or directing the individual(s) to leave. The game will not resume until the player has left. Failure to comply completely with removal of the individual(s) from the vicinity within three (3) minutes will result in forfeiting your contest and possible judicial action for that individual as deemed appropriate by the Campus Regulations and Judicial Procedures Document. Notify the IM Staff of any safety hazards/injuries/concerns regarding equipment, facilities, etc. Please share with your team the intramural policy regarding first aid supplies and the need to prepare yourselves to play.
"Announce" to both the opposing designated game captain and the official(s) when protesting at the time of the infraction when the interpretation of the rule is at fault, the official applies the incorrect rule, or imposes wrong penalty and/or before the completion of the contest for player eligibility. Team(s)/player(s)/official(s) must submit a completed protest form to the IM Office within 24 hours after a league contest and within one hour after a post-season tournament contest. (Section XV)
At the conclusion of your game, sign the score sheet to verify the result and score.
If the team wins a division championship or individual tournament, contact the IM Office for t-shirts/awards and pictures (see information sheet for established T-shirt limits for each activity).
If the designated game captain is unable to finish their responsibilities for any reason (injury, illness, etc.) the team must appoint a playing member to take over their duties for the remainder of the game. A contest may not continue without a designated captain. IM employees reserve the right to require teams to reappoint a team captain when deemed necessary.
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VIII. ENTERING AN INTRAMURAL EVENT
- Pick up an information sheet and entry/roster (ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY) form at either the Equipment Desk located in the Intramural Gym, or online at http://www.mckendree.edu/intramurals. These are available throughout the academic year.
- Enter the team in the desired sport before or on the announced deadline date. To register your team, turn in your team entry sheet and the entry fee if required. Select the league, division, and level that best suits your needs.
- Sign-ups are taken on a first-come-first-serve basis. Be sure to have your entry ready and register early on the appropriate day. Occasionally, if facilities and/or time are limited, only a pre-designated number of entries will be accepted. Leagues continue to be subject to change throughout the entry process and are not considered final until printed and distributed at the manager's meeting.
- Game rules and league schedules will be available online at www.mckendree.edu/intramurals, and limited copies may be distributed at the managers' meeting that is conducted after entries are taken. Game rules, policies/procedures, etc. are also discussed at the meeting.
- Individual and dual activities take on several different styles and tournament structures. Each sport will have information printed and available on the Intramural Sports@McK website prior to the event.
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IX. PLAYERS WITHOUT A TEAM
For programming purposes, the IM Program will only accept complete teams during the entry process for team sports. If you wish to participate in a team sport and either do not know enough people to form your own team, you may do any/all of the following:
- Register your name and email address on the free agent's list by completing the online Free Agent Form.
- Attend the managers' meeting for the sport you wish to play and try to get on a team at the meeting.
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X. ENTRY FEES AND REFUNDS
An entry fee may be required to register for some intramural activities and must be paid prior to, or at the time the entry/roster form is turned in. The entry fee will only be refunded if the IM Program does not place a team in a league or the team drops out before the day of their first scheduled game for that activity. For special events, the entry fee will only be refunded prior to the posting of the tournament bracket. Failure to field a team, show up, failure of opponents to show up, or otherwise dropping out of the program are not acceptable reasons for a refund. Unfortunately, the IM Program cannot guarantee the number of games teams will receive and does not refund money to teams who receive byes due to the original schedule or changes during the season because of teams dropping out, the loss of games to weather, etc.
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XI. MEETING FOR MANAGERS
Meetings are conducted for all team sports and some of the special events to discuss game rules, safety, policies and procedures, etc., and to distribute a copy of your playing schedule. If a team is not represented for the entire meeting, that team will immediately forfeit their first 2 games. If a team does not make any effort to obtain a copy of the rules, safety, policies and procedures, etc., by contacting the Director, they will immediately be dropped from any further competition. League openings will be filled immediately with teams/individuals on a waiting list. However, teams will not be added for the final week of league play. Dates, locations and times of meetings are available on the Intramural Schedule as well as through campus email.
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XII. RESCHEDULING OF GAMES
In those instances when a team cannot play one of their regularly scheduled games, the IM Program provides some opportunity to reschedule the game. Space & time are limited but Intramural Sports@McK will try to accommodate requests whenever possible.
A rescheduling form must be completed and then approved by the opposing manager and Intramural Sports@McK. The reschedule process must be completed at least one working day before the originally scheduled contest. Rescheduling requests for Saturday & Sunday games must be completed by 11:00 PM on Thursday. Teams are encouraged to reschedule games as soon as a conflict is discovered.
Regular Season
- The requesting manager should contact the Equipment Desk Sunday through Thursday between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM. The requesting manager must talk to the Coordinator that is in charge for the evening. The manager will then be given the option(s) for reschedule times.
- The requesting manager should then contact the opposing team manager to arrange a time when the game may be rescheduled.
- The opposing manager must then notify the IM Office Sunday through Thursday between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM to approve the reschedule. The reschedule is not complete until both the requesting and opposing captain have approved the reschedule and notified Intramural Sports@McK. If the opposing captain does not contact Intramural Sports@McK by the reschedule deadline, the game will remain as originally scheduled.
- All regular season reschedules must be completed at least 24 hours in advance of the originally scheduled contest or by Thursday at 11:00 PM for Saturday or Sunday games. If the opposing manager and/or Intramural Sports@McK does not agree to the request, the game will be played as originally scheduled.
- Both managers will be contacted by the Intramural Department to confirm the completion of the reschedule. If either manager does not receive confirmation of the reschedule they should contact the Intramural Department at 537-6941 or 537-6420.
Playoffs
- During playoffs, team members may be scheduled in more than one contest at the same time. Please be sure you have enough players on your team to avoid not having the required minimum number to start a game. (Only requests due to an academic, religious or IM conflict for a majority of the team will be accepted.)
- The requesting manager should contact the Equipment Desk Sunday through Thursday between 6:00 PM and 11:00 PM. The manager will then be given the option(s) for reschedule times as well as the opposing manager contact information. The requesting manager should then contact the opposing team manager to arrange a time when the game may be rescheduled.
- The opposing manager must then notify Intramural Sports@McK to approve the reschedule. The reschedule is not complete until both the requesting and opposing captain have approved the reschedule and notified Intramural Sports@McK. If the opposing captain does not contact Intramural Sports@McK by the reschedule deadline the game will remain as originally scheduled.
- All playoffs reschedules must be requested by 10:00 PM of the night before the originally scheduled contest or 10:00 PM of the night before the reschedule day if the reschedule day is earlier than the originally scheduled game. Reschedules must be requested by Thursday at 10:00 PM for Saturday or Sunday games. If the opposing manager and/or Intramural Sports@McK does not agree to the request, the game will be played as originally scheduled.
- Both managers will be contacted by Intramural Sports@McK to confirm the completion of the reschedule. If either manager does not receive confirmation of the reschedule they should contact the Intramural Department at 537-6941 or 537-6420.
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XIII. DEFAULTS
If a team knows they cannot make a game and will not be able to show, they may call the Intramural Sports Office a minimum of 24 hours in advance to default the game. They MUST talk to or leave a message for the coordinator of that sport. If a team elects to default, they will be charged with a loss but not assessed a forfeit.
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XIV. FORFEITS
Game time is forfeit time. Game time is determined by the official's watch/clock on each field/court. The minimum "start number" for the sport must be present in order to avoid forfeiting the contest.
If one team is not ready to play at game time the following occurs:
- The team ready to play will win the game by forfeit.
- The team can choose to grant their opponents a 10-minute grace period. If the required minimum number of players arrives within the 10 minutes, the game will be played and recorded as an official game. NO EXCEPTIONS ARE PERMITTED TO THE 10-MINUTE GRACE PERIOD. Length of game will be shortened according to the lateness of the new start time.
If neither team has the minimum number ready to start at game time a double forfeit is declared.
If both teams are ready to play at the designated start time, but due to a previous game running long or the court/field is not ready for play, the starting time will be adjusted so that the teams receive a full allotment of time. Game time begins as soon as the field/court is available for play.
If a team cannot fulfill their commitment to complete their schedule, they are encouraged to notify Intramural Sports@McK of their wish to be dropped from the schedule. Regardless of the reason(s), after a team forfeits three (3) of their scheduled league contests, they are IMMEDIATELY DROPPED FROM ANY FURTHER COMPETITION.
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XV. PROTESTS
Protests are permitted in intramural sports in order to ensure fairness to a player or a team. Protests are divided into two categories; Game Protest or Player Eligibility Protest. To file a protest the appropriate form must be filled out and submitted by a team representative to the IM Office. During league play the form must be received within 24 hours. During tournament play, a written protest form must be filed in the IM Office within one hour following the completion of the contest. A $10.00 fee must accompany each protest form. The money will be returned if the protest is valid and accepted, or placed into the Intramural operating budget if denied. Game Protest forms and Player Eligibility Protest forms are available at the Equipment Desk.
The official(s) will stop play to indicate the contest is under protest.
1. GAME PROTEST: The only acceptable reasons for a game protest are:
a. Misinterpretation of a playing rule,
b. Failure of an official to apply the correct rule to a given situation, or
c. Failure of an official to impose the correct penalty for a given violation.
To be a valid game protest, it must also actually affect the final result of the game. The game protest must be "announced" to the opposing designated captain and official(s) at the time of the infraction when the interpretation of the rule is at fault, the official applies the incorrect rule, or imposes wrong penalty. Game Protests WILL NOT be considered if they are based on a decision involving the accuracy of judgment on the part of an official or does not follow the procedural guidelines.
* PLAYER ELIGIBILITY PROTEST: A protest concerning player(s) eligibility must be announced prior to the completion of the contest. A team in violation of any eligibility rule will cause the contest to be automatically forfeited.
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XVI. PROTEST SOLUTION
Game Protests will be checked for validity (one of the three acceptable reasons, shown to directly affect the final outcome & meets the procedural guidelines established). If deemed valid, an automatic roster check of both teams will take place. Player Eligibility Protests will lead to a review of eligibility of both teams involved in the contest.
Decisions to accept/deny and the solution implemented by Intramural Sports@McK shall be final with no appeal process. The Director, and/or Coordinator (s) review protests. Individuals may be asked to provide additional information. During tournament play, protests will be reviewed before the next scheduled contest, generally the next day.
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XVII. PLAYOFFS - POST SEASON TOURNAMENT
Team sports play a regular season followed by a post-season single elimination playoff tournament to determine the champions. The following guidelines will apply:
- All women's teams, which do not forfeit half of their league contests (regardless of the reason), are eligible for the post-season tournament. In the “Competitive” and “Recreational' divisions, any team which does not forfeit 3 of their league contests (regardless of the reason) and has a record of .500 and above during league play is eligible for the post season tournament. If a team is not placed into the division of their choice when entering, they still must be .500 and above during league play to qualify for playoffs.
- A bye will be recorded as a win.
- A tie will be recorded as half a win.
- Teams must participate during the league season to be eligible for post-season play.
- Games cancelled due to inclement weather shall be rescheduled whenever possible.
- Tournament brackets will be posted on the bulletin board located at the Equipment Desk or on the Intramural website. Only brackets posted at the Equipment Desk and on the website will be considered official. Check your league schedules for the specific date on which brackets will be posted. Teams are responsible for checking the brackets in person.
- Teams may play on different nights during playoffs than during the regular season, including Sundays. If the majority of players on a team will have an academic or religious scheduling conflict with a night during playoffs, the team manager must contact the Intramural office by the last day of league play. Intramural Sports@McK will try to accommodate requests. Team members may be scheduled in more than one contest at the same time. Please be sure you have enough players on your team to avoid not having the required minimum number to start a game. During playoffs, only requests due to an academic or conflict with another IM event for a majority of the team will be accepted. This does not guarantee a game will be rescheduled.
- If any division (“Competitive” or “Recreational”) has more than 64 teams, the division will be "split" into an upper (.750+) and lower (.749-.500) division according to league win-loss record and a champion determined in each.
- Teams may choose to "switch" to a higher division for post-season play, (from “Recreational” to “Competitive”) and will advance if their win/loss record during league play is .500 and above. If a team is not placed into the division of their choice when entering, they still must be .500 and above during league to qualify for playoffs. Requests for "switching" must be made to the Intramural Director before 5:00 PM on the last day of the league season. NO TEAM MAY SWITCH TO A LOWER DIVISION FOR PLAYOFFS.
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XIII. PLAYER & TEAM CONDUCT
A. TEAM SPORTSMANSHIP SYSTEM
The development of team and individual sportsmanship is of fundamental importance in all intramural activities. The sportsmanship system is intended to provide an objective scale in which teams are judged on attitude and behavior throughout the intramural league and playoff season. Behavior before, during and after an intramural contest will be included in the rating. The team manager is responsible for educating and informing all players and spectators affiliated with their team about the system. In order to encourage acceptable conduct before, during and after an intramural contest, officials and/or supervisors shall make decisions whether to warn, penalize or eject individuals/teams/spectators/organizations for poor sportsmanship. Game Officials and/or Coordinators will be present to warn and/or eject individuals/teams/spectators/organizations.
The four different team ratings are:
1. Outstanding
2. Acceptable
3. Unacceptable
4. Season Ending
The rating system is designed to rate teams, not individual conduct. A team is responsible for the actions of the individual team members and spectators related to their team. The designated game captain is responsible to calm difficult situations and to restrain troubled teammates. IM officials and/or Coordinators shall determine acceptable and unacceptable team ratings. Appeals for unacceptable ratings will not be accepted. The Intramural Administrative Staff (Coordinators/Director) will determine season ending ratings. They also reserve the right to review any rating given to a team.
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Outstanding Sportsmanship Rating
- Team members demonstrate a willingness to contribute to sportsmanlike atmosphere.
- All team members show control over their own actions and omissions. All team members uphold their responsibility to contribute to an atmosphere of sportsmanlike competition.
- Team members follow all game rules in both spirit and intent.
- Any fouls committed by the team are not to intimidate or gain advantage.
- No unsportsmanlike penalties or warnings are assessed.
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Acceptable Sportsmanship Rating
- Team members cooperate with and demonstrate good sportsmanship toward members of teams, spectators and all IM officials and/or staff.
- The designated game captain exhibits control over their team and spectators, converses reasonably and rationally with officials about rule interpretations/calls and cooperates by providing any information requested by any intramural official/staff.
- Team members participate in the spirit and intent of the intramural game rules and/or program policies. Team members accept judgment decisions made by the officials during the contest.
- No player/spectator ejections occur before, during or after the intramural contest. A team (players/spectators) does not receive three warnings.
- Respect shown for intramural facilities/equipment.
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Unacceptable Sportsmanship Rating
Any one of the following will lead to an unacceptable rating:
- Three or more warnings in any one contest towards one team (players/spectators).
- Play is stopped for warning and/or player/spectator ejection(s) occur before, during or after the intramural contest.
- Technical fouls for unsportsmanlike conduct, multiple unsportsmanlike penalties given and/or any excessive celebration.
- Participants/spectators complain about official's decisions and/or show dissension. Complaints may be voiced verbally or "non-verbally". Arguing between opposing teams/spectators may also lead to an unacceptable rating.
- The designated game captain does not control their team and spectators; converses in a dissenting manner with officials about rule interpretations/calls and does not cooperate or provide information requested by any intramural official/staff while performing their duties.
- Team members do not meet eligibility requirements for participation within the program because of former varsity/varsity, and/or professional status within same/related sport. (See section VII)
- Public indecency or obscenity. This includes but is not limited to urination in public.
- Individuals/teams playing after the consumption or suspicion of consumption of alcohol/drugs. If the contest has begun, player(s) will immediately be removed from the contest. (Refer to Alcohol/Drugs Policy)
- Verbal or physical abuse and/or the threat of, by participant(s)/spectator(s) in the form of fighting, baiting, and/or wrestling with an opponent and/or teammate before, during or after an intramural contest.
- Any threatening behavior (verbal and/or non-verbal) towards any intramural employee before, during or after an intramural contest.
- Damage/destruction of facilities/equipment.
- Any violation of McKendree University policies and procedures governing the conduct of students.
Consequences for Unacceptable Rating
- Team is suspended until manager/captain meets with coordinator of that sport and/or Director of Intramural Sports@McK. Manager/captain shall be held responsible to initiate the meeting in a timely manner to ensure availability of appropriate staff member (preferably several days before team is scheduled). Teams will forfeit any games scheduled on subsequent days prior to the meeting. During the meeting the manager/captain will be notified of the suspended status of their player(s).
- Regardless of the length of the league season, two unacceptable ratings will equal a season ending rating and the team will automatically be dropped from any further competition.
- The eligibility of players from both teams will be reviewed. (Violation of any eligibility rule will cause a contest to be automatically forfeited.)
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Season Ending Conduct
Any one of the following may lead to season ending discipline, and/or possible sanctioning as defined by the Student Judicial Document:
- Team is uncooperative and out of control before, during or after an intramural contest.
- The designated game captain exhibits poor control over themselves, their team and/or their spectators.
- Multiple ejections occur.
- Failure of ejected participant(s) and/or spectator(s) to leave the vicinity within the allotted three (3) minutes or returning to the vicinity during or after the game.
- Participants and/or spectators constantly complain to officials/Coordinators. There is excessive argument with teammates/opposing team, officials/Coordinators. Communication is verbally abusive.
- Verbal or physical abuse and/or the threat of, by participant(s)/spectator(s) in the form of fighting, baiting, and/or wrestling with an opponent and/or teammate before, during or after an intramural contest.
- Any threatening behavior (verbal and/or non-verbal) towards any intramural employee before, during or after an intramural contest.
- Any physical contact with any intramural employee.
- Team fails to cooperate/comply with intramural administrative staff/college officials while performing their duties; falsely represents or withholds any information requested.
- Team(s) are unable to continue to play and game is stopped.
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Consequences for Season Ending Rating
1. Team will automatically be dropped from any further competition.
2. Individuals/Team may be subject to discipline as determined by the Campus Regulations and Judicial Document.
3. The eligibility of players from both teams will be reviewed.(Violation of any eligibility rule will cause a contest to be automatically forfeited.)
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B. APPEAL OF A TEAM SPORTSMANSHIP RATING
Only a season ending rating can be appealed by the manager. A written appeal must be filed within 48 hours of the rating. During the appeal process, the burden of proof shifts from the Intramural Program to the manager. IT IS NOT A HEARING. The process is a review of the record of the incident(s) and reasons for the season ending behavior. Teams will remain dropped from any further competition during the appeal process. Acceptable reasons for an appeal are; new information concerning the contest becomes available, and/or the sanction is too severe for the offense. The Director, Coordinators and/or person(s) designated by the Director, will review the appeal. During playoffs, the Director and/or Coordinator(s), prior to the next scheduled contest, will hear the appeal.
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C. TEAM CONDUCT RESULTING IN A FORFEIT
In addition to the sportsmanship rating system, the following team behavior will result in a game being immediately stopped and FORFEITED (regardless of score or time remaining):
- Three (3) separate individuals receiving any combination of warnings and/or two (2) separate individuals receiving ejections.
- Failure of ejected participant(s) and/or spectator(s) to leave the vicinity within the allotted three (3) minutes or returning to the vicinity during or after the game. A player cannot return for the second game when back to back games are scheduled (softball, 4 on 4 flag football, & volleyball).
- The team is ‘confirmed' to be using an ineligible player.
- Any player(s) and/or spectator(s) other than the designated game captain, leaving the team area/bench to join a situation in the game. A person's intentions are irrelevant.
- Failure of a captain or team to provide required information to the Intramural Program.
- Any inappropriate behavior following the forfeiting of a game could lead to a season ending rating. Serious on site situations will also result in initiating the involvement of Public Safety and the referral to the Office of Student Affairs.
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D. TEAM SPORTSMANSHIP RATINGS
Any competition requires competitors. Without an opposition there is no game, and no fun. Good sportsmanship and participation are the focuses of the Intramural Sports program. Intramural Sports rewards not only the