Interscholastic Athletics
General Information
A dynamic Interscholastic Athletic Program is vital to the educational and social development of students. The Yonkers Public Schools athletic program provides an environment where students develop sports skills, physical fitness, teamwork, sportsmanship and respect for others that will prepare for success in their adult life. As team members, students are encouraged to face challenges, strive for excellence and become leaders. Considered a model for quality secondary athletic programming in New York State, the District maintains rigorous eligibility standards, requires appropriate student conduct and emphasizes safe participation for athletes.
Every effort is made to support the athletic program with the best facilities, uniforms, equipment and with the most qualified coaching staff available. Coaches provide a sound, positive philosophy taught in a safe and healthful environment.
The opportunity to participate in our sports program is afforded to all eligible secondary students in grades 7-12. More than 1,800 students participate in the interscholastic athletic program under the direction and supervision of approximately 120 qualified and certified coaches.
Eligibility Standards For Interscholastic Athletics
Before being permitted to try out, practice or participate in any interscholastic athletic activity, students must be enrolled in a Yonkers secondary school and fulfill each of the following requirements.
According to the Commissioner’s Regulations, a pupil shall be eligible for inter-school competition in a sport during a semester provided that he/she is a bona fide pupil, enrolled during the first 15 days of the semester, is registered in the equivalent of four regular courses, and meets the physical education requirement.
- Practice Sessions
All student-athletes must participate in the N.Y.S.P.H.S.A.A. required number of practices for that sport to be able to play in any athletic contest. Coaches are responsible for reviewing practice rules and for conducting practice sessions five or six days per week excluding game days.
- Parent/Guardian Consent Form
A signed Parent/Guardian Consent form must be completed and submitted to the coach before the start of each sports season.
- Medical Examination
Each student will receive a medical examination from the school physician and must obtain a signed Approval Form for Participation. All approvals for participation must indicate the sport or activity in which the student may participate.
- Health Status Review
Students must have a Health Status Review performed by the school nurse. The school nurse conducts an interview to update the student’s health history unless a full medical examination has been given within the preceding thirty (30) days. Based on the results of the Health Status Review, a pre-physical and/or complete physical will be conducted whenever required.
- Medical Disqualification
If a student is medically disqualified for participation in a given sport or activity, the examining physician must indicate the reasons for disqualification on the Physical Examination Card.
- Insurance
The school district’s accident insurance coverage is provided by the Pupil Benefits Plan, Inc., which has a fixed benefit schedule based on the nature of the injury. This coverage applies to all pupils engaged in school sponsored activities. This plan is a secondary, non-duplicating policy. If you have medical or dental insurance that covers your child, charges must be submitted to your primary insurance first. Submit the explanation of benefits or rejection from your carrier along with itemized bills to Pupil Benefits Plan, Inc. The school office will give you information about the claim form, benefits, time limits and instructions.
- Attendance Requirements
Students are expected to maintain 100% daily attendance in school. Students absent from school may not practice or participate in athletics that day. Absences, cutting and lateness to class can result in the student being dropped from the team.
