2026-2027 Parent Handbook - Flipbook - Page 50
Athletic Policies & Procedures
At Carden Conejo School, athletics are an extension of the classroom and an important part of developing
character, discipline, leadership, teamwork, resilience, and sportsmanship. We believe that competitive
sports provide students with opportunities to challenge themselves, develop confidence, build lasting
friendships, and learn valuable lessons that extend far beyond the playing field.
Our athletics program is built on a simple philosophy: Students are students first, athletes second. Academic
responsibilities, personal character, and respect for others must always remain priorities. Participation in
athletics is a privilege that carries responsibilities for students, parents, coaches, and spectators. We are
committed to fostering a competitive yet respectful environment where student well-being, personal
growth, and character development are always prioritized over winning.
Student-Athlete Commitment & Eligibility
Joining a Carden athletic team means making a commitment to teammates, coaches, and the school
community. Athletic seasons generally last approximately three months, with after-school practices and
regularly scheduled competitions. Specific schedules and requirements vary by sport. All student-athletes
are expected to:
Prioritize Academics: Maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA from the previous grading period to remain eligible
for athletic participation. Students who fall below this requirement will be ineligible until the next
grading period.
Honor Team Commitments: Attend all scheduled practices, games, and competitions unless excused by
the coach. Families are responsible for arranging transportation and communicating potential conflicts
in advance.
Demonstrate Good Sportsmanship: Treat teammates, opponents, coaches, officials, and spectators with
kindness and respect, regardless of the outcome of a competition.
Give Their Best Effort: Arrive prepared, maintain a positive attitude, follow coaching instructions, and
contribute to the success of the team.
Complete the Season: Make a full commitment to the entire athletic season, including postseason
competitions when applicable. Leaving a team before the season concludes is strongly discouraged, as it
affects teammates and the overall program.
Represent Carden with Pride: Demonstrate the manners, morals, integrity, and character expected of all
Carden students, both on and off campus.
School Attendance & Athletic Participation
Students must attend school during the regular school day to be eligible to participate in an athletic
practice, game, or competition that afternoon or evening. A student who is absent from school for the day is
automatically ineligible to participate in athletic activities that same day. An exception may be considered
for a student who misses school for a legitimate medical appointment, provided the family submits a valid
doctor's note and the student is not ill or otherwise medically restricted from participating. Approval of any
exception is at the discretion of school administration. Students who are absent due to illness may not
attend athletic practices or competitions that day, regardless of the importance of the event or their role on
the team. Academic responsibilities and the regular school day always take precedence over extracurricular
athletics. Students may not miss school for the purpose of participating in athletic activities later that day.
Team Attendance & Scheduling
Consistent participation is essential to the success of every athletic team. Student-athletes are expected to
attend all practices, games, and team activities unless they have received prior approval from their coach.
Families should carefully consider the time commitment associated with athletics, including practices,
competitions, academic responsibilities, vacations, and other extracurricular activities such as performing
arts, music, or enrichment programs. Whenever possible, families should avoid scheduling travel or activities
that conflict with team obligations. Repeated unexcused absences, failure to meet team expectations, or
withdrawing from a team before the season concludes may affect a student's eligibility.
