Handbook
Philosophy
At Canterbury School, we believe strongly that athletics are an integral part of our overall educational experience, and we are committed to an athletic program of excellence. Students are encouraged to participate in competitive and intramural sports, which build character and foster leadership skills. Our student/athletes experience success as well as disappointment; they develop an understanding of the relationship between dedication, effort and accomplishment; they learn the importance of effective time management; and they practice good sportsmanship while benefiting from the essential values of teamwork. We believe that active participation in athletics contributes to the maturity level and to the development of the whole child, an essential component in an independent school education.
FHSAA/Suncoast Middle School League
Canterbury is governed by the Florida High School Athletic Association. This association is responsible for policies, eligibility, conduct, district competition, physicals, and many other rules pertaining to our athletic teams. Our middle school belongs to Suncoast Middle School League, which is currently composed of eight schools in Lee County. We have a 7th-8th grade team and in select situations a few 6th graders may play on that team. We can no longer guarantee a spot on these teams to everyone that tries out. We simply have too many students in middle school to make that practical.
Competitive Attitude
By their vary nature, athletics are competitive. Learning to keep this competition in perspective is sometimes challenging. There will be official's decisions, events during the game, and outcomes of contests that may not be to one's liking. Learning to accept these things is part of both the athletic experience and the maturation process. You should not display a negative attitude or reaction that will embarrass you, you teammates, your family, or your school. Displaying good sportsmanship involves much more than just shaking hands after a contest.
Canterbury offers competition for middle and upper school students in the following sports:
- Volleyball Volleyball
- Soccer (boy's/girl's) Swimming (boys'/girls')
- Basketball (boy's/girl's) Cross Country (boys'/girls')
- Golf
- Soccer (boys'/girls')
- Basketball (boys'/girls')
- Baseball
- Lacrosse (boys'/girls')
- Tennis (boys'/girls')
- Track (boys'/girls')
- Softball
Physicals
Athletes are required by the FHSAA to have a physical every school year (click here to download the form). It is good for one calendar year. In addition, parents must sign the FHSAA "Consent and Liability" form. The forms are available on line and in the athletic director's office. This requirement is for middle school and upper school students.
Student Driving
If our teams are leaving from school for an athletic contest, all team members will ride the bus. If however, we are playing locally, and the game is later that evening, the players may drive themselves to the game location. At no time may a student ride with another student without permission from the athletic director and a written note from the parents. At the coaches' discretion, players may ride home with their parents after a game or contest, but not with another player's parents without written permission.
Grade Eligibility
To be in accordance with FHSAA rules, a student must maintain a cumulative "C" average in his/her classes to be eligible for interscholastic competition. This eligibility is by semester. In other words, if you fall below the required GPA at the end of one semester, you would be ineligible for the following semester.
Missing Practice
Each coach will review team rules at the beginning of the season, including rules on missing practice. If you miss practice for any reason, IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY to inform your coach as to why you were absent. Obviously, missing practice can directly affect your playing time, so keep your coach well informed.
Uniforms
Athletes will have one week after the completion of their season to turn their uniforms into their coach or athletic director. Please be prompt with this responsibility. The student will be charged if the uniforms are not returned in good condition or in a timely manner.
Uniforms are to be worn for Canterbury games only, not for P.E. classes, or other school activities.
Banquets
Our athletic banquets are a good opportunity to bring closure to our respective seasons and to recognize the achievements of individuals and teams during the past season. Please note that you should dress up for this event and jeans and shorts are not appropriate.
Final Thoughts
We want your athletic experience at Canterbury to be a pleasant one. Often times, individual desires can come into conflict with team goals or coaches' expectations. Playing time, awards, and recognition are the result of hard work and dedication. The athletes are the ones who really determines those things.
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