Code of Conduct
Villanova University has established a tradition of ethical conduct at all levels of University life. In accordance with this tradition, all student-athletes involved in the intercollegiate athletics programs are expected to represent the University in an honorable manner at all times.
The Department of Athletics makes every effort to offer a program that assists each student-athlete in securing a degree and fulfilling the objectives of the University. Participation as a member of an athletics team carries academic and athletic responsibilities for the student-athlete as follows:
Academics
- Student-athletes will always be on time for class and an unexcused absence is unacceptable.
- Mandatory Authorized Varsity Excuse forms will be presented to faculty at least one class period before a legal varsity absence from class. In addition, athletes must notify faculty at least one month in advance before missing major exams. (i.e., mid-terms)
- Student-athletes assume all responsibility for class conduct and thorough understanding of course syllabi requirements.
- Scheduled meetings by student-athletes with faculty are always kept and the student-athlete will be on time. No excuse is acceptable.
Athletics
- Abide by all team, Departmental, University, ECAC, Big East Conference, Atlantic 10 Conference, Patriot League, Big 5 and NCAA rules.
- Maintain oneself in top physical condition, within accepted health standards.
- Attend all organized practices unless officially excused.
- Take proper care of equipment and return it in good condition.
- Treat officials and opponents with respect, and avoid undue confrontations.
Student-athletes are encouraged to obtain clarification of any Departmental, University, Conference or NCAA rules and regulations which he/she does not understand from a member of the coaching staff, the Director of Compliance or the Director of Athletics.
Sportsmanlike Conduct
Sportsmanlike conduct means more than the absence of negative actions in public. Each individual coach is responsible for providing appropriate conduct instructions to student-athlete=s regarding positive techniques for handling the following playing-field situations:
- Communicating with officials and opponents on routine matters during athletic events.
- Maintaining control during emotionally charged situations, including assisting a teammate or colleague who appears to be losing control.
- Reacting in a positive manner to an aggressive action by an individual or a group.
Coaches should define actions which constitute inappropriate conduct and suggest ways to avoid such behavior. Unacceptable behavior on the playing field includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Physical abuse (e.g.throwing of objects ) of officials, coaches, opponents or spectators.
- Unauthorized seizure of equipment from officials or the news media.
- Inciting players or spectators to negative actions or to any behavior which insults or defiles an opponent's traditions.
- Use of obscene or otherwise inappropriate language or gestures.
- Making public statements which are negative, controversial or outside the Department's media policy.
