Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA)

The FHSAA provides leadership for the development, supervision and promotion of interscholastic athletic programs sponsored by its member schools. Participation in these programs enriches the educational experience of qualified student-athletes by providing them with opportunities to compete in an equitable, sportsmanlike, and wholesome manner.

Interscholastic athletic programs play a vital role in the education of students who participate in them. Through their participation in interscholastic athletics, students are provided character-building opportunities to demonstrate honesty, integrity, respect, caring, cooperation, trustworthiness, leadership, tolerance and personal responsibility. These fundamental values enable participants to realize and fulfill their potential as students, as athletes, as individuals and as citizens. CONSTITUTIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 2 Principles for the Conduct of Interscholastic Athletics FHSAA rules governing the conduct of interscholastic athletic programs are designed to advance one or more basic principles, including the following, to which member schools are committed. In some instances, a delicate balance of these principles is necessary to help achieve the objectives of the Association.

10.2.1 General Principle. If an ineligible student is intentionally permitted to participate in an interscholastic athletic contest, forfeiture of the game and honors shall be automatic and mandatory. If an ineligible student is inadvertently permitted to participate in an interscholastic athletic contest, forfeiture of the game and honors shall be automatic and mandatory if the coach or school administrator knew or should have known that such use would be a violation of the association’s rules and regulations (§ 1006.20(2) (i), F.S.). 10.2.1.1 Team or Individual Sports. In team sports, the contest and honors shall be forfeited. In individual sports, the points won by the ineligible student, individually or as the member of a relay team shall be forfeited. If an ineligible student participates on a relay team, the relay team shall be disqualified. 10.2.1.2 Procedures. If an ineligible student is allowed to participate in an athletic contest, the principal shall notify the Executive Director the dates of the competition and provide copies of the letters of forfeiture to the opposing school(s) the student participated against. 10.2.1.3 Intentional Use of Ineligible Students. The Executive Director shall have full authority to invoke additional penalties against a member school that in his/her determination intentionally permits an ineligible student to participate. 10.2.1.4 Prospective Contests. The association will not limit the competition of student athletes prospectively for rule violations of the school by its coaches or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests. The association will not unfairly punish student athletes for eligibility or recruiting violations perpetrated by a teammate, coach, administrator, or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests. Contests will not be forfeited for other eligibility or recruiting violations in excess of the number of contests that the coaches or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests responsible for the violations are prospectively suspended (§ 1006.20(2)(i), F.S.).

10.7.4.1 Executive Director Initiated Reviews. The Executive Director may refer to the Board of Directors for review a decision of a Sectional Appeals Committee that directly conflicts with decisions of other Sectional Appeals Committees or of the Board of Directors on the same question or rule; or that, in the opinion of the Executive Director, is rendered in conflict with the rules of the Association or will have a great effect on the proper administration of the interscholastic athletic programs throughout the Association. The Executive Director will notify a member school in writing when a decision rendered by Sectional Appeals Committee will be referred to the Board of Directors for review. 10.7.4.2 Appeal of Infraction Appeals Committee Decisions. The Executive Director is empowered to appeal any decisions made by the Infraction Appeals Committee to the Board of Directors. B 10 COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT 42 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

11.1.1 Initial Sport Roster. Member schools must submit to the FHSAA, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, their initial varsity and sub-varsity sports rosters for each sport by the first regular season playing date permitted in that sport. Rosters can continue to be added to and deleted from during the regular season and the state series prior to a contest. A member school may not add to or delete from a sport roster during the contest. 11.1.1.1 Permitting a student-athlete to compete in an interscholastic contest prior to his/her name being submitted to the FHSAA on a sport roster, may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $50 per student and/or other sanctions. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 63 Revised February 20, 2025 P 12 CLASSIFICATION 11.2 Number of Participants. The number of student-athletes permitted to participate in a given sport by a member school during the state series shall be limited to the following: Sport Participants Baseball Twenty-two (22) Basketball Fifteen (15) Beach Volleyball Eighteen (18) Bowling Eight (8) Competitive Cheerleading Forty (40) Cross Country Fifteen (15) Flag Football Twenty-five (25) Football Seventy-five (75) Golf Ten (10) Lacrosse Thirty-five (35) Soccer Twenty-five (25) Softball Twenty-two (22) Swimming & Diving Sixty (60) Tennis Twelve (12) Track & Field Eighty (80) Volleyball Fifteen (15) Water Polo Eighteen (18) Weightlifting Twenty (20) Olympic; Twenty (20) Traditional Wrestling Forty (40) NOTE: Each member school is responsible for ensuring compliance with Title IX regulations. The terms and conditions governing the Florida High School State Championship Series in each respective sport shall stipulate the number of student-athletes who may actually dress in uniform/participate (see Bylaw 9.10.1) in a Florida High School State Championship Series contest. POLICY 12 CLASSIFICATION

16.7.1 Non-Traditional Student Defined. Non-traditional Students are students that are not enrolled in and do not physically attend the school at which they participate. 16.7.2 Student Registration Process. The student must register with the school by completing and submitting the EL2, EL3, GA4, EL7 (if applicable, including the EL7V), EL12 (if applicable, including the EL12V) and EL14 (if applicable). 16.7.2.1 Returning Non-Traditional Students. A student who has previously registered intent for a sport or sports by submitting a GA4 and an EL7 (if applicable) or EL12 (if applicable) and an EL14 (if applicable) to participate for a member school and is going to continue to participate for that school in the sport or sports in which he/she originally registered intent need only submit the EL2 and EL3 forms, as well as an official transcript or grade report, whichever is applicable, for subsequent school years. 16.7.2.1.1 Home Education Student Exception. A home education student must provide the school each year with a completed and signed EL7V Form. 16.7.2.1.2 Non-Member Private School Student Exception. A non-member private school student must provide the school each year with a completed and signed EL12V Form. 16.7.3 School Registration Process. The school must register each Non-Traditional Student with this association, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director and outlined in Administrative Procedure 1.8, each year before adding the student to a roster and allowing the student to participate in an interscholastic contest. It remains the responsibility of the school to verify the eligibility of all returning non-traditional students.

16.8.1 Teams or Sports Designated by Biological Sex at Birth. In accordance with Florida Statute 1006.205, interscholastic athletic teams or sports that are sponsored by a public secondary school must be expressly designated as one of the following based on the biological sex at birth of team members: 1. Males, men, or boys; 2. Females, women, or girls; 3. Coed or mixed, including both males and females. 16.8.2 Biological Sex at Birth. 16.8.2.1 Biological Male. Florida Statute 1006.205 prohibits a student whose biological sex at birth was male, from participating on teams or sports designated as female, women, or girls. If a biological male is participating, the individual or team must compete in the male, men, or boys division. 16.8.2.2 Biological Female. A student whose biological sex at birth was female, may participate on teams or sports designated as male, men, or boys.

19.4.1 Composition. The Athletic Directors Advisory Committee shall be comprised of 15 individuals, as follows: one Florida Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (FIAAA) District Director from each of the four FHSAA administrative sections; three executive committee members of the FIAAA (i.e. president, president-elect, immediate past president, etc.); four private school Athletic Directors, one from each of the four FHSAA administrative sections; one Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) athletic director representative appointed by the FACA Executive Director; and three at-large current, active school athletic directors appointed by the FHSAA Executive Director. 19.4.2 Elections. Each FIAAA District Directors representative will be elected by their peers from among the FIAAA District Directors in each of the four FHSAA administrative sections. Each of the four private school representatives will be elected by their peer private school Athletic Directors in each of the four FHSAA administrative sections. Elections for all eight of these representatives will be conducted by the FHSAA. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 81 Revised February 20, 2025 19.4.3 Term. All members of the Athletic Directors Advisory Committee shall serve a term of three years and shall not be eligible to immediately succeed himself/herself. A rotation of terms shall be established to ensure that not more than one-half of the elected members’ terms expire in any given year. 19.4.4 Meetings. The Athletic Directors Advisory Committee shall meet, at a minimum, three times annually – once following each season’s round of sports advisory committee meetings to review the recommendations brought forward by those committees; and to evaluate the entire FHSAA interscholastic athletic program, making such recommendations of its own as it deems necessary. In reviewing the recommendations brought forward by the various sport advisory committees, the Athletic Directors Advisory Committee shall either give its endorsement or withhold its endorsement on each recommendation but shall not have the authority to defeat any recommendation. 19.4.5 Quorum. Eight (8) of the voting members of the Athletic Directors Advisory Committee shall constitute a quorum.

19.8.1 Composition. Pursuant to § 1006.20(2)(m), F.S., the Association shall establish, sustain, fund, and provide staff support to a Sports Medicine Advisory Committee appointed annually by the Executive Director and comprised of: • Eight physicians licensed under § 458, F.S. or § 459, F.S., with at least one member licensed under § 459, F.S.; and • One chiropractor licensed under § 460, F.S.; and • One podiatrist licensed under § 461, F.S.; and • One dentist licensed under § 466, F.S.; and • Three athletic trainers licensed under part XIII of § 468, F.S.; and • One member who is a current or retired head coach of a Florida high school. 19.8.2 Meetings. The Sports Medicine Advisory Committee shall meet, at a minimum, once annually to review the interscholastic athletic program and make recommendations on safety and other health-related issues. 19.8.3 Quorum. Eight (8) of the members of the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee in attendance shall constitute a quorum.

Interscholastic Athletics 2.1 Educational Nature of Interscholastic Athletics ...... 6 2.2 Participation is a Privilege ...................................... 6 2.3 Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct .......................... 7 2.4 Administrative Control and Responsibility .................. 7 2.5 Compliance With Rules .............................................. 7 2.6 Nondiscrimination and Diversity ................................. 7 2.7 Competitive Equity ..................................................... 7 2.8 Eligibility Rules ........................................................... 8

Interscholastic athletic programs are designed to enhance the educational experience. The student-athlete is a student first, an athlete second; and each and every practice and competition is an extension of the classroom. This is what clearly separates interscholastic athletics from all other forms of youth sports.

Participation in interscholastic athletics by a student is a privilege, not a right. To earn this privilege, students must abide by the rules and meet standards of academic performance and personal behavior that are related to school purposes. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 7 Revised February 20, 2025

FHSAA rules will promote the opportunity for equity in competition to assure that individual student-athletes and school teams will not be prevented unfairly from achieving the benefits possible through participation in interscholastic athletics. B 2 PRINCIPLES FOR THE CONDUCT OF INTERSCHOLASTIC ATHLETICS 8 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

3.2.1 Club Sports Defined. Any sport that is not categorized as either a recognized sport or a sanctioned sport by the Board of Directors as stipulated herein shall be considered to be a club sport and shall not be under the jurisdiction of this Association. No Association bylaw, policy, rule, or contest regulation shall apply to competition in a club sport. Public member schools, however, shall be required to abide by the academic eligibility requirements as set forth in Florida Statutes. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 47 Revised February 20, 2025 3.2.2 Intramural Sports Defined. Athletic activities organized within a member school shall be considered an intramural sport and shall not be under the jurisdiction of this Association. A school can offer an intramural program for a sport, recognized or sanctioned, provided the school does not participate in interscholastic athletic competition for that sport.

3.5.1 Empowerment of Board of Directors. The Board of Directors may revoke the status given any sport, and suspend or discontinue the Florida High School State Championship Series in any sport, upon recommendation of the Executive Director, when any one of the following occur: 3.5.1.1 Below Requisite Number. The requisite number of member senior high schools no longer sponsor a program in the sport; or 3.5.1.2 Majority of Members Seek Revocation. Two-thirds of the member senior high schools that sponsor a program in the sport submit letters of petition requesting that the status of the sport be revoked and/or the Florida High School State Championship Series in the sport be suspended or discontinued; or 3.5.1.3 Financially Unfeasible. If it is determined that it is no longer financially feasible for the Association and its member schools to supervise and regulate the sport, and/or conduct a Florida High School State Championship Series in the sport; or 3.5.1.4 Revocation Due to Unsportsmanlike Conduct. The number and nature of acts of unsportsmanlike conduct, or other acts of a flagrant and malicious nature, that are committed by student-athletes and coaches during competition in the sport, reach such a level as to make it no longer in the best interests of the Association or its member schools offer competition in the sport. POLICY 4 INTERSCHOLASTIC CONTESTS

3.9.1 Privileges of Full Membership. A full member will enjoy all privileges of membership, unless otherwise specifically withheld according to these bylaws. Membership privileges include, but are not limited to, the privilege to compete in FHSAA championships; the privilege to vote in Association elections; the privilege to seek election to positions in the FHSAA governance structure and sub-structures; and the privilege to make application for and serve as host of multi-school events that require FHSAA Office approval. 3.9.2 Privileges of Membership by Sport. A member by sport will enjoy some privileges of membership. These privileges include, but are not limited to, the privilege to compete in FHSAA championships. 3.9.3 Schools Not Eligible for FHSAA Championships. The following member schools are also not permitted the privilege of participation in FHSAA championships: (a) Senior high schools during the application and provisional period; (b) Middle/junior high schools, as well as home education cooperatives comprised entirely of students in middle/junior high school grade levels; (c) Schools operated by the Department of Juvenile Justice; (d) Schools contracted by the Department of Juvenile Justice to provide juvenile justice educational programs, if students attending those programs are permitted to represent the school in interscholastic competition; and (e) Schools that provide housing to students but are not recognized as boarding schools by the Board of Directors, if students housed by the school are permitted to represent the school in interscholastic competition.

35.3.1 Sport Academy Defined. A sport academy is defined as, but not limited to, a facility, center or school that exists for the purpose of providing instruction to athletes in specific sport(s). 35.3.2 Student Athlete Eligibility. A student who resides at or attends school at a sport academy and receives instruction in a sport at the sports academy, during the sport season, more than five (5) hours per academic week, is not permitted to participate in the state series in that sport. POLICY 36 ATHLETIC RECRUITING

36.1.1 Athletic Recruiting Forbidden. Athletic recruiting is a gross violation of the spirit and philosophy of educational athletics. Athletic recruiting is unethical and unsporting conduct and is forbidden by FHSAA Bylaws (FHSAA Bylaw 6.3). 36.1.2 Scope of School’s Responsibility. A school’s responsibility for the conduct of its interscholastic athletic program includes responsibility for: 36.1.2.1 The acts of any employee or athletic department staff member; 36.1.2.2 The acts of third parties, such as an independent person, business, or organization, that is a representative of the school’s athletic interests when a member of the school’s administration or athletic department staff knows or should know that the person, business, or organization is promoting the school’s interscholastic athletic program; and P 35 BOARDING SCHOOLS, HOMESTAY PROGRAMS AND SPORTS ACADEMIES 98 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 36.1.2.3 The acts of any other third parties, such as an independent person, business, or organization, acting at the request, direction, or otherwise on behalf of any employee or representative of the school’s athletic interests. 36.1.2.4 The acts of any other third parties, such as an independent person, business, or organization, acting on behalf of any student athlete. 36.1.3 Compliance Programs. Schools are expected to educate all employees, athletic department staff members and representatives of the school’s athletic interests about acts that are prohibited by this policy. Schools must immediately report to the FHSAA Office impermissible acts when they are discovered to have occurred. 36.1.4 Academic Recruitment Permissible. A school may conduct an academic recruitment program that is designed to attract students to the school based upon its total educational and extracurricular (athletic and activities) program. A school must not use an academic recruitment program as a disguise for athletic recruiting. 36.1.5 Financial Assistance Permissible. Private schools, as well as developmental research schools operated by state universities, may administer school-based financial assistance programs for students who attend those schools. Financial assistance must be totally unrelated to a student’s athletic interest, potential or performance. Financial assistance based even partially on a student’s athletic interest, potential or performance is not permitted. 36.1.6 Impermissible Benefit. Student-athletes must not receive impermissible benefits, which are benefits that are not given or generally not given to all other students in the school.

36.2.1 Athletic Recruiting. “Athletic recruiting” is any effort by a school employee, athletic department staff member or representative of a school’s athletic interests to pressure, urge or entice a student to attend that school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. 36.2.1.1 Representative of a School’s Athletic Interests. “Representative of a school’s athletic interests” refers to any independent person, business or organization that participates in, assists with and/or promotes that school’s interscholastic athletic program. This includes: (a) A student-athlete or other student participant in the athletic program at that school; (b) The parents, guardians or other family members of a student-athlete or other student participant in the athletic program at that school; (c) Immediate relatives of a coach or other member of the athletic department staff at that school; (d) A volunteer with that school’s athletic program; (e) A member of an athletic booster organization of that school; (f) A person, business or organization that makes financial or in-kind contributions to the athletic department or that is otherwise involved in promoting the school’s interscholastic athletic program. 36.2.2 Improper Contact. “Improper contact” is contact, either directly or indirectly, whether in person or through written or electronic communication, by a school employee, athletic department staff member, representative of the school’s athletic interests or third parties, such as an independent person, business or organization, with a student or any member of the student’s family, in an effort to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a different school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. See Policy 37. 36.2.3 Impermissible Benefit. An “impermissible benefit” is any arrangement, assistance or benefit that is not offered or generally made available to all students and/or their families who apply to or attend a school, or that otherwise is prohibited by FHSAA rules. Receipt of a benefit by a student-athlete or his/her family is not a violation of FHSAA rules if it is demonstrated that the same benefit is generally available to the school’s students or family members and is not based in any way on athletic interest, potential or performance. See Policy 37. 36.2.4 Financial Assistance. “Financial assistance” is funds from various sources that are administered and provided by a school to students to pay or assist in paying costs directly related to their education at the school. See Policy 38.

36.3.1 References to Athletic Program. Any presentation conducted as part of a school’s academic recruitment program must promote the school’s overall educational and extracurricular programs. Any mention of the school’s interscholastic athletics program must be limited to a listing of the interscholastic sports sponsored by the school and to a description of the school’s athletic facilities. It is understood that the presentations and activities of all persons involved in the school’s academic recruitment program must avoid any references to the school’s athletic program that might pressure, urge, or entice a student to attend that school for purposes of athletic participation. All such presentations and activities must be in keeping with the general spirit of the rules prohibiting athletic recruiting. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 99 Revised February 20, 2025 36.3.2 Open Houses. A school may conduct an open house for prospective students and members of their families. Information distributed and presentations made during the open house, as well as advertisements for the open house, must limit references to the school’s athletic program to a listing of the interscholastic sports sponsored by the school and to a description of the school’s athletic facilities. No information can be distributed, or any statement made that in any way implies that the school’s interscholastic athletic program is better than any other school’s interscholastic athletic program, or that a student would be better served by participating in interscholastic athletics at that school as opposed to any other school.

36.4.1 Certification of Compliance. Each member school each year must submit to the FHSAA Office, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, certifying that the principal, the athletic director and the president of each athletic booster organization of the school have reviewed the “FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting,” and that he/she will comply with all provisions of the policy, and will review the provisions of the policy with school employees, athletic department staff members and representatives of the school’s athletic interests. All coaches, paid or otherwise, shall, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, certify that he/she has reviewed the “FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting,” will comply with all provisions of the policy and will review the provisions of the policy with his/her coaching staff and players electronically in a process facilitated by the FHSAA. Failure to comply will subject the school to minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions. 36.4.2 Affidavit of Compliance. A student who for any reason changes schools after previously attending a different school or who is a non-traditional student (reference Bylaw 1.4.30), as well as the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s), duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction, must sign in the presence of a notary public an “Affidavit of Compliance with the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting and Non-Traditional Student Participation”. The affidavit will be necessary regardless of whether the student changes schools during the school year or during the summer period between school years. The affidavit will be accompanied by an explanation of the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting, including the penalties for violating the policy, as well as the consequences of making a false statement on the affidavit. The student will not be eligible to participate in interscholastic athletic competition at his/her new school until the school submits the affidavit, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director (GA4 Form – Affidavit of Compliance with the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting and Non-Traditional Student Participation). Failure to comply will subject the school to minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions.

36.5.1 Mandatory Forfeiture. A school that is found to have an athletically recruited student-athlete will forfeit all contests and awards won in team sports and all points earned and resulting awards won in individual sports in which the student-athlete participated. Mandatory forfeiture also will be required when it is determined that a student who received an impermissible benefit was allowed to participate. 36.5.2 Eligibility Effect of Violation. A student who is found to have accepted an impermissible benefit will be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition for one or more years at the school to which the student accepted the impermissible benefit and may be declared ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition at all member schools for one or more years. 36.5.3 Disciplinary Measures. In addition to the mandatory forfeiture of contests and awards, any one or more of the penalties described in Article 10 of the FHSAA Bylaws may be imposed against a school for violating any provisions of this policy. These include: 36.5.3.1 Public reprimand; 36.5.3.2 Financial penalty of a minimum of $2,500 and/or other sanctions; 36.5.3.3 A form or combination of forms of probation (administrative, restrictive and/or suspension) for one or more years; 36.5.3.4 Prohibition against participating in certain interscholastic competitions, including Florida High School State Championship Series competitions, for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 36.5.3.5 Prohibition against participating in any interscholastic competition for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 36.5.3.6 Participation in interscholastic competition at a higher classification for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 36.5.3.7 Restricted membership for one or more years during which time some or all of the school’s membership privileges may be restricted or denied; and 36.5.3.8 Expulsion from membership in the Association for one or more years. P 36 ATHLETIC RECRUITING 100 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 36.5.4 Penalties to School Employees or Contractors. Any recruitment by a school employee or contractor in violation of FHSAA bylaws results in escalating punishments as follows ( § 1006.20(2)(b)2, F.S.) : 36.5.4.1 for a first offense, a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. 36.5.4.2 for a second offense, suspension without pay for 12 months from coaching, directing, or advertising an extracurricular activity and a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. 36.5.4.3 for a third offense, a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. If the individual who committed the violation holds an educator certificate, the FHSAA shall also refer the violation to the department for review pursuant to § 1012.796 , F.S. to determine whether probable cause exists, and, if there is a finding of probable cause, the commissioner shall file a formal complaint against the individual. If the complaint is upheld, the individual’s educator certificate shall be revoked for 3 years, in addition to any penalties available under § 1012.796 , F.S. Additionally, the department shall revoke any adjunct teaching certificates issued pursuant to § 1012.57 , F.S. and all permissions under § 1012.39 , F.S. and § 1012.43 , F.S. , and the educator is ineligible for such certificates or permissions for a period of time equal to the period of revocation of his or her state-issued certificate. 36.5.5 Penalties to Coaches (Paid or Volunteer). A coach, paid or volunteer, who violates the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting will be ineligible to coach or attend an interscholastic contest, at any level, for one or more sports for a minimum of six (6) weeks. POLICY 37 IMPROPER CONTACT AND IMPERMISSIBLE BENEFITS

37.1.1 General Regulation. No school employee, athletic department staff member, representative of the school’s athletic interests or third parties, such as an independent person, business or organization, may make contact, either in person or through any form of written or electronic communication or through any third party, with a student, or any member of the student’s family, in an effort to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a different school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. 37.1.2 Specific Prohibitions. Specifically prohibited contact by school employees, athletic department staff members, representatives of the school’s athletic interests or third parties with a student includes, but is not limited to, the following: 37.1.2.1 Sending, or arranging for anyone else to send, any form of written or electronic communication to the student or any member of his/her family, in an attempt to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a different school to participate in interscholastic athletics. 37.1.2.2 Visiting or entertaining the student or any member of his/her family in an attempt to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a different school to participate in interscholastic athletics. 37.1.2.3 Making a presentation or distributing any form of advertisement, commercial or material that promotes primarily or exclusively a school’s athletic program or implies a school’s athletic program is better than the athletic program of any other school or suggests that the student’s athletic career would be better served by attending a different school. 37.1.2.4 Answering an inquiry by the student or any member of his/her family about athletic participation opportunities at a school with any response that pressures, urges, or entices the student to attend a different school. The student or family member instead should be immediately referred to the school employee responsible for registrations or admissions. 37.1.2.5 Providing transportation to the student or any member of his/her family to visit a school, to take an entrance examination for a school, to participate in an athletic tryout at a school, or to meet with a school employee, athletic department staff member, other representative of the school’s athletic interests or third parties, as part of an effort to pressure, urge or facilitate the student’s attendance at a different school to participate in interscholastic athletics. 37.1.2.6 Attending an elementary school, a junior high school, a middle school, or a non-school athletic contest to identify prospective student-athletes who might be recruited to attend a school. 37.1.2.7 Suggesting or going along with any effort by any person, whether a school employee, other representative of the school’s athletic interests or any other person, such as an alumnus of a school, a coach or other person affiliated with a non-school athletic program (e.g. AAU team, club team, travel team, recreation league team, etc.), a coach of or recruiter for a collegiate athletic team, a scout for a professional team or other third parties, to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a school to participate in interscholastic athletics, or to direct or place the student at the school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. 37.1.2.8 Making or arranging any other contact with the student or any member of his/her family in an attempt to pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a school to participate in interscholastic athletics. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 101 Revised February 20, 2025 37.1.3 Contact Initiated by Prospective Student. When a school employee, athletic department staff member or representative of a school’s athletic interests is contacted by a student who does not attend that school and/or any other member of his/ her family, about the school’s interscholastic athletic program or attending the school, the school employee, athletic department staff member or representative of the school’s athletic interests must immediately refer the student and/or his/her family member to the appropriate school personnel who have the responsibility of registering and admitting prospective students. Only during the summer period, as defined in Policy 20, and once the student has registered, been accepted, and no longer attends the previous school may the student have contact with athletic department staff members or representatives of a school’s athletic interests. 37.1.4 Casual Contact with Students in Normal Community Settings. It is not considered a violation of this policy for an employee, athletic department staff member or representative of the athletic interests of a high school to have casual contact with a student who does not attend that school or any member of the student’s family in a normal community setting. At no time during such contact, however, may the employee, athletic department staff member or representative of the athletic interests of the high school pressure, urge or entice the student to attend a high school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics.

37.3.1 Mandatory Forfeiture. A school that is found to have an athletically recruited student-athlete will forfeit all contests and awards won in team sports and all points earned and resulting awards won in individual sports in which the student-athlete participated. Mandatory forfeiture also will be required when it is determined that a student who received an impermissible benefit was allowed to participate. 37.3.2 Eligibility Effect of Violation. A student who is found to have accepted an impermissible benefit will be ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition for one or more years at the school to which the student accepted the impermissible benefit and may be declared ineligible for interscholastic athletic competition at all member schools for one or more years. 37.3.3 Disciplinary Measures. In addition to the mandatory forfeiture of contests and awards, any one or more of the penalties described in Article 10 of the FHSAA Bylaws may be imposed against a school for violating any provisions of this policy. These include: 37.3.3.1 Public reprimand; 37.3.3.2 Financial penalty of a minimum of $2,500 and/or other sanctions; 37.3.3.3 A form or combination of forms of probation (administrative, restrictive and/or suspension) for one or more years; P 37 IMPROPOER CONTACT AND IMPERMISSIBLE BENEFITS 102 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 37.3.3.4 Prohibition against participating in certain interscholastic competitions, including Florida High School State Championship Series competitions, for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 37.3.3.5 Prohibition against participating in any interscholastic competition for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 37.3.3.6 Participation in interscholastic competition at a higher classification for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 37.3.3.7 Restricted membership for one or more years during which time some or all of the school’s membership privileges may be restricted or denied; and 37.3.3.8 Expulsion from membership in the Association for one or more years. 37.3.4 Penalties to School Employees or Contractors. Any recruitment by a school employee or contractor in violation of FHSAA bylaws results in escalating punishments as follows ( § 1006.20(2)(b)2, F.S.) : 37.3.4.1 for a first offense, a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. 37.3.4.2 for a second offense, suspension without pay for 12 months from coaching, directing, or advertising an extracurricular activity and a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. 37.3.4.3 for a third offense, a $5,000 forfeiture of pay for the school employee or contractor who committed the violation. If the individual who committed the violation holds an educator certificate, the FHSAA shall also refer the violation to the department for review pursuant to § 1012.796 , F.S. to determine whether probable cause exists, and, if there is a finding of probable cause, the commissioner shall file a formal complaint against the individual. If the complaint is upheld, the individual’s educator certificate shall be revoked for 3 years, in addition to any penalties available under § 1012.796 , F.S. Additionally, the department shall revoke any adjunct teaching certificates issued pursuant to § 1012.57 , F.S. and all permissions under § 1012.39 , F.S. and § 1012.43 , F.S. , and the educator is ineligible for such certificates or permissions for a period of time equal to the period of revocation of his or her state-issued certificate. 37.3.5 Penalties to Coaches (Paid or Volunteer). A coach, paid or volunteer, who violates the FHSAA Policy on Improper Contact and Impermissible Benefits will be ineligible to coach or attend an interscholastic contest, at any level, for one or more sports for a minimum of six (6) weeks. POLICY 38 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE

4.1.1 Interscholastic Contests Defined. FHSAA Bylaw 8.1.1 defines an interscholastic contest as “any competition between organized teams of different schools in a sport recognized or sanctioned by this Association”. All such contests are subject to Association bylaws, policies, administrative procedures, rules, and contest regulations for that sport and in general. 4.1.2 Contests Against Non-Member and Out of State Schools. Member schools competing against a non- member Florida school or a non-NFHS state association member out of state school must complete the AT1B, “Contract for Interscholastic Athletic Contest Against Non-Member Schools”. Member schools must assure that all non-member schools meet Bylaw 8.3.

4.1.1 Form of Government. The FHSAA is a representative democracy. 4.1.2 Governance. These bylaws, administrative policies, and other regulations, as well as Florida Statutes pertaining to the FHSAA or interscholastic athletics in general, govern the Association. 4.1.2.1 Constitutional Bylaws. Constitutional bylaws establish the name, purpose, membership requirements and structure of the Association, as well as the more important principles for the conduct of interscholastic athletic programs. 4.1.2.2 Operating Bylaws. Operating bylaws govern the responsibilities of school administrations in conducting interscholastic athletic programs, the obligations of and relationships between schools in interscholastic contests, the eligibility of student-athletes, the penalties for rules infractions, and the procedures for appeals. 4.1.2.3 Administrative Policies. Administrative policies are the basis for the regulations that govern the various FHSAA programs. 4.1.3 Florida Sunshine Law. All FHSAA meetings are conducted in compliance with the Florida Sunshine Law (§ 286.011, F.S.). All records are subject to the Florida Public Records Law (§ 119.01, F.S.). 4.1.3.1 Teleconference Meetings. On reasonable notice, the President of the Association may conduct a meeting of the Board of Directors by teleconference for routine administrative action or for emergency action. The teleconference shall be stenographically recorded and shall be conducted in such a manner that any member of the public shall have access to the telephone conference by telephone. The notice of such meeting shall provide the information necessary to allow public access by telephone to the telephone conference meeting. 4.1.4 Florida Statutes. The FHSAA cannot waive any provision of Florida Statutes.

4.1.4.1 Member schools must contract with Association approved officials’ associations for all interscholastic home contests. 4.1.4.1.1 Failure to contract with sanctioned local officials’ associations for registered officials for all interscholastic home contests may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per contest and/or other sanctions.

4.2.1 Outcome is Final. The outcome (i.e., winners and losers) of all interscholastic contests are final, and cannot be reversed, except where the rules of the sport permit or in the case where a winner must forfeit its victory or points. 4.2.2 Elimination is Final. Elimination from a Florida High School State Championship Series competition of individuals or teams is final. Defeat by individuals or teams that are later ordered to forfeit their victory, place and/or points, or are vacated from the bracket, will not bring about reinstatement or advancement in the Florida High School State Championship Series competition on the part of the individual or team that has been eliminated. 4.2.3 Championship is Final. Championships or other placements in Florida High School State Championship Series competitions are final. Championships or other placements ordered vacated by individuals or teams, will not bring about advancement in placements or receipt of awards for those placements. P 4 INTERSCHOLASTIC CONTESTS 50 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 5 MEMBERSHIP

40.7.1 Level 1 Suspension. A head coach who commits a violation of any condition listed in Policy 40 will be ineligible to coach or attend the next contest, at any level, for a minimum of the next contest during the period of suspension; or 40.7.2 Level 2 Suspension. A head coach who receives a second Level 1 Suspension due to a violation of any condition listed in Policy 40, or commits multiple violations in Policy 40 will be ineligible to coach or attend any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport, at any level, for a period of up to six (6) weeks; or 40.7.3 Level 3 Suspension. A head coach who receives a second Level 2 Suspension for violating any condition of Policy 40 or commits an egregious violation of Policy 40, as determined in the sole discretion of the Executive Director, will be ineligible to coach or attend any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for a period of up to one (1) year. POLICY 41 EXERTIONAL HEAT ILLNESS Heat illness is a cause for concern for high school student-athletes beginning pre-season practices in the warm, summer months and other times of extreme heat or other transitional periods when returning to school after summer, winter, spring, or any extended break including injury or illness . The most serious heat illness, exertional heat stroke, is one of the leading causes of preventable death in these athletes. Heat production during intense exercise is 15 to 20 times greater than at rest and can raise body core temperature one to two degrees Fahrenheit every five minutes unless heat is dissipated. The following policy provides guidelines and procedures for conducting preseason practices and activities to ensure the well-being of student-athletes.

41.10.1 Level 1 Suspension. A head coach who commits a violation of any condition listed in Policy 41 will be ineligible to coach or attend any contest, at any level, for a minimum of the next contest during the period of suspension; or 41.10.2 Level 2 Suspension. A head coach who receives a second Level 1 Suspension due to a violation of any condition listed in Policy 41, or commits multiple violations in Policy 41 will be ineligible to coach or attend any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport, at any level, for a period of up to six (6) weeks; or 41.10.3 Level 3 Suspension. A head coach who receives a second Level 2 Suspension for violating any condition of Policy 41 or commits an egregious violation of Policy 41, as determined in the sole discretion of the Executive Director, will be ineligible to coach or attend any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for a period of up to one (1) year. POLICY 42 SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST Sudden cardiac arrest is a leading cause of sports-related death. This policy provides procedures for educational requirements of all paid coaches and recommends added training.

6.1.1 Responsibilities. The principal’s responsibilities include the following: (a) Sign membership renewal application. (b) Assure that all contracts for interscholastic athletic competition have been duly executed, including those entered into by a predecessor. (c) Enforce the Association’s bylaws and policies in his/her school. (d) Maintain institutional control of all phases of interscholastic athletic activities within a member school, including the activities of its student-athletes, booster clubs, parent groups, etc. (e) Keep on file all records required by this Association for the current school year. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 19 Revised February 20, 2025 (f) Keep each of the following, but not limited to, required forms on file for at least seven (7) years: 1. EL2 – Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation; and 2. EL3 – Consent and Release from Liability Certificate; and 3 AT18 – Post Head Injury/Concussion Initial Return to Participation (if applicable). (g) Keep each of the following, but not limited to, additional forms (if applicable) until the student completes the terminal grade of the school: 1. EL4 – Registration Form for Youth Exchange, Other International Student or Immigrant Student; 2. EL7 – Registration Form for Home Education Student; 3. EL7V – Verification of Student Registration with Public School District Home Education Office; 4. EL12 – Registration Form for Non-Member Private School Student; 5. EL12V – Verification Form for Non-Member Private School Students; 6. EL14 – Verification of Student Controlled Open Enrollment Option with Public School District; 7. GA4 – Affidavit of Compliance with the Policies on Athletic Recruiting & Non-Traditional Student Participation. 6.1.2 Delegation of Responsibilities. The principal may delegate his/her duties as the official representative to this Association to another member of his/her staff. This does not relieve the principal of the obligation to ensure that these bylaws and policies are adhered to.

7.1.1 Sportsmanship Requirement. Players, coaches, administrators, spectators, contest officials and all other persons connected directly or indirectly with a member school shall practice and promote the highest standards of sportsmanship and ethics before, during and after any interscholastic event. 7.1.2 Principal’s Duty. It shall be the responsibility of each member school principal to exercise control over all individuals to the extent necessary to ensure safety and fair play for all participants and adherence with these standards. B 7 SPORTSMANSHIP 20 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

8.1 Interscholastic Contest ........................................ 20 8.2 Rules of Competition ........................................... 20 8.3 Schools With Which Contests May be Held ........ 21 8.4 Contracts ........................................................ 21-22 8.5 Categorization of Sports ...................................... 22 8.6 Participation by Gender ....................................... 22

8.1.1 Definition of Interscholastic Contest. An interscholastic contest is any competition between organized teams or individuals of different schools in a sport recognized by this Association, and therefore shall be subject to all regulations pertaining to such contests. 8.1.2 Protests. Any decision made by a contest official shall not be contested. The decisions of the contest officials are final.

8.2.1 NFHS Rules. Unless waived by at least a two-thirds vote of the Board of Directors, the rules published by the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), or those approved by it, shall be the official rules for interscholastic athletic competition in all sports. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 21 Revised February 20, 2025

8.5.1 Sports May be Categorized as Recognized or Sanctioned. All sports which are not recognized or sanctioned by the Board of Directors shall be considered club sports and are not under the jurisdiction of this Association. 8.5.1.1 “Recognized” Sports. Recognized sports require that participants abide by Association bylaws, policies, rules, and contest regulations with regard to student eligibility and sportsmanship in interscholastic contests. 8.5.1.2 “Sanctioned” Sports. Sanctioned sports may require participants to adhere to stricter guidelines established by the Board of Directors. Sanctioned sports may be eligible for the Florida High School State Championship Series status pursuant to Bylaw 8.8.1. 8.6 PARTICIPATION BASED ON BIOLOGICAL SEX AT BIRTH ( § 1006.205, F.S.) 8.6.1 Females on Male Teams. Biological females may play on a male team in a sport. 8.6.2 Males on Female Teams. Biological males may not participate on a female team in any sport. 8.6.3 Co-Ed Teams. Team sports that have both males and females are required to compete in the boy’s division in that sport.

8.9.1 Sports Requiring the Use of Registered Officials. All officials for interscholastic contests in the sports of baseball, basketball, football (flag and tackle), lacrosse, soccer, softball, track & field, volleyball, water polo and wrestling must be registered with this Association in the sport the individual is to officiate. 8.9.2 Registration Policies. The Board of Directors shall establish the policies and procedures for the registration of officials, who shall be independent contractors. Registered officials must be members of an official’s association which is sanctioned by this Association. 8.9.3 Failure to Use Registered Officials. It shall be the responsibility of the hosting member school principal for contracting registered officials through the official’s association sanctioned by this Association. Violation of this regulation shall subject the school to a financial penalty. 8.9.4 Failure to Provide Registered Officials. Failure of the sanctioned official’s association to provide registered officials as contracted shall subject the official’s association to a financial penalty. 8.9.5 Conflicts of Interest. Coaches or other persons connected with competing schools shall not officiate in contests except with the consent of all competing schools. The principal, athletic director or team coach from all competing schools may grant consent. B 8 INTERSCHOLASTIC CONTESTS 24 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 OPERATIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 9 Student Eligibility

9.10.1 Athletic Contest Participation Defined. A student in athletic uniform during an athletic contest is defined as having participated in that contest. Any member school which allows a student to participate in interscholastic athletic competition (dress in any part of the full uniform worn for that contest with the exception of a cap) in violation of the regulations of this Association will be held guilty of using an ineligible student and subject to the penalties assessed. OPERATIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 10 Compliance and Enforcement

Middle, junior, and senior high schools which are members of the FHSAA shall be required to hold membership in the Florida Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (FIAAA). Annual dues are $25 regardless of school size. These dues will be collected with the FHSAA Annual Invoice and submitted to FIAAA on behalf of the schools.

To achieve its purpose, the FHSAA will: (a) Strive for interscholastic athletics to be an integral part of the educational program; (b) Ensure the equitable conduct of interscholastic athletic competitions; (c) Promote an understanding that participation in interscholastic athletics is a privilege earned by those who meet the established requirements; (d) Provide rules for administrative control of, and responsibility for, interscholastic athletic programs that is consistent with the rules of the Association; (e) Recognize the outstanding accomplishments of student-athletes, coaches, teams and schools; (f) Protect member schools from exploitation by organizations and individuals whose purposes are not consistent with educational athletics; (g) Encourage cooperation, friendship and sportsmanship among student-athletes, coaches, and member schools; and (h) Cooperate with the Florida Legislature and the Florida Department of Education in governing interscholastic athletics.

10.2.1 Eligibility for Participation. To be eligible for participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series in any sport: ( a) The school commits to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series with FHSAA prior to the reclassification process, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. (b) A school that does not commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series prior to the reclassification process in that sport may request to be added within the first two (2) weeks of the sport season, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. A fee of $250 will be assessed. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 61 Revised February 20, 2025 P 10 FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES (c) A school may request to be added as Independent until three (3) weeks before the state series in that sport. The team shall be assigned “Independent Status” in that sport for the duration of the classification cycle. (d) A school that elects to withdraw its commitment to a sport after the second week of the sport season shall notify the FHSAA Office utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. (1) The school may be subject to a $100 administrative fee. (2) The school withdrawing its commitment shall be required to request to be released from its scheduled contests and may be subject to financial restitution to those schools. (e) A varsity team shall engage in a minimum number of interscholastic contests (games, matches or meets) as listed below or the required number of district contests as determined in the district meeting (if applicable), whichever is greater, in the sport. To count as a contest, the school’s team actually shall participate in and complete the contest. Scheduled contests that are canceled or not completed (in accordance with the playing rules of the sport in question) may not be counted. (1) Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball and Water Polo – 10 contests (2) Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Lacrosse, Tennis and Wrestling – 7 contests (3) Flag Football and Golf - 6 contests (4) Cross Country, Swimming & Diving and Track & Field – 5 contests (5) Football, Competitive Cheerleading and Weightlifting – 4 contests (f) A varsity team must play not less than 60 percent of its regular season contests in the sport against FHSAA member schools. (g) A varsity team must not take more than two trips per school year in the sport beyond the neighboring states of Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi. 10.2.2 Only One Varsity Team May Enter. A school may enter only one varsity team in the Florida High School State Championship Series in a sport. 10.2.3 Provisional Period Members Not Eligible. A provisional period member senior high school shall not be eligible to enter a team into the Florida High School State Championship Series in any sport during its period of provisional membership.

10.3.1 Minimum Contest Requirement f or Team Sports. To be eligible for participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series in a team sport, an individual student-athlete shall participate in a minimum of the following interscholastic contests in that sport for the current season, unless a written request for a waiver is approved by the Executive Director or his/her designee. 10.3.1.1 Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball and Water Polo – 10 contests 10.3.1.2 Beach Volleyball and Lacrosse – 7 contests 10.3.1.3 Flag Football - 6 contests 10.3.1.4 Football and Competitive Cheerleading - 4 contests 10.3.2 Minimum Contest Requirement for Individual Sports. To be eligible for participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series in an individual sport, an individual student-athlete shall compete in a minimum of the following interscholastic contests in that sport for the current season, unless a written request for a waiver is approved by the Executive Director or his/her designee. For the purposes of meeting the minimum contest requirement, “compete” is defined as having a result for that contest. 10.3.2.1 Tennis - 7 contests 10.3.2.2 Bowling - 7 points (Dual Match is 1 point, Tri-Match is 1 point, any competition with 4 or more schools is 2 points) 10.3.2. 3 Golf - 54 holes completed 10.3.2. 4 Swimming & Diving and Track & Field - 5 contests 10.3.2. 5 Cross Country and Weightlifting - 4 contests 10.3.2. 6 Wrestling - 4 weigh-in points (Dual Meet is 1 point, Tournament/Tri-Match/Quad-Match is 2 points) 10.3.3 Individual Honors Requirements. In an individual sport, to be eligible for individual honors on the regional and state levels, a student-athlete shall compete for individual honors on the district level. To be eligible for individual honors on the state level, a student-athlete shall compete for individual honors on the district and regional levels. 10.3.4 Academic Exemption. A student-athlete who is academically ineligible at the beginning of a sports season and who regains his/her eligibility during the sports season but is unable to satisfy the minimum contest requirement, shall be exempted from this provision. 62 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 10.4 Failure to Appear. 10.4.1 Team Failure to Appear. In the event a team fails to appear at the Florida High School State Championship Series event site to play at the scheduled time for its contest, the contest shall be declared forfeited to the team’s opponent, and that team shall advance to the next round. In this event, the FHSAA Office must be notified immediately. If a team’s arrival is delayed due to mechanical problems or inclement weather, every reasonable effort must be made by the local manager in consultation with the FHSAA Office to make adjustments, if possible, in the starting time of the contest to accommodate the absent team. Otherwise, failure to appear may subject the school to a $250 monetary penalty, removal from the state series in that sport for the remainder of that classification cycle and/or other sanctions. 10.4.2 Student Athlete Failure to Appear. A student-athlete who qualifies in a Florida High School State Championship Series meet as an individual is expected to compete on successive levels of the Florida High School State Championship Series unless ill, injured, suspended due to disciplinary action, or for any other reason acceptable to the Executive Director. If the student-athlete does not compete on a successive level, the student-athlete will not be permitted to compete in any other event in the Florida High School State Championship Series in that sport. Personnel on relay teams may be changed in accordance with the rules governing those sports. A school must submit in writing to the FHSAA Office the name of the student-athlete and an explanation for the inability to compete in advance of the competition whenever situations make it possible to do so. Failure to participate in the district/regional meet by an individual or relay team is a violation of FHSAA policy and may subject the school to a $50 penalty unless the reason for failure to participate is approved by the FHSAA Office.

10.4.1 Eligibility Appeals. When a student is determined to be ineligible by a member school and/or is ruled ineligible by the Executive Director or his/her designee, the member school principal may appeal the ruling of the Executive Director if he/she or the student takes issue with it and must do so at the student’s request. If possible, such disposition of the appeal is to be made before the end of the applicable sport season, the next scheduled Section Appeal Committee meeting or the next scheduled Board of Directors meeting, whichever is the earliest (§ 1006.20(2)(g), F.S.). 10.4.1.1 Ineligibility must be established by a preponderance of the evidence (§ 1006.20(2)(g)1, F.S.). 10.4.2 Rules Violations Appeals. Any student athlete, coach or member school who is found to be in violation of the rules of this Association may appeal the finding of the Executive Director, or his/her designee, if he/she takes issue with it, or may appeal the penalty imposed if he/she believes it to be too severe and must be done if requested. 10.4.3 Disputes Between Member Schools Appeals. A member school principal may appeal the findings by the Executive Director which arise from a dispute between one or more member schools. 10.4.4 Undue Hardship Waivers. A member school principal may file a request for undue hardship waiver on behalf of the student when enforcement of the provision(s) which render(s) the student ineligible places an undue hardship upon the student and must do so at the student’s request. 10.4.4.1 Basic Principle. The eligibility rules of this Association are designed to promote academic achievement and to encourage students to advance with their graduating class. Unless a student exerts every reasonable effort to make up credit not earned, such effort including attendance at summer school or other alternative programs, an undue hardship request seeking a waiver of the limit of eligibility shall not be granted. 10.4.4.2 Criteria for an Undue Hardship Waiver Determination. By seeking an undue hardship waiver, the student and the member school accept the fact that the student is ineligible under the FHSAA Bylaws and/or Policies but are asking for a waiver of those Bylaws and/or Policies. For the purpose of determining whether to grant or deny an undue hardship waiver the Sectional Appeals Committees and the Board of Directions shall be guided by the following criteria, other criteria contained in these Bylaws and FHSAA Policies, and their respective experience related to high school athletics. 10.4.4.2.1 Insufficient Grounds for Undue Hardship Waiver. The fact that a student is retained in a lower grade shall not be sufficient grounds for granting an undue hardship waiver if the student fails to pass the required number of courses, or is voluntarily withdrawn from school, or repeats a lower grade to gain physical, social, or emotional maturity. 10.4.4.2.2 Potentially Sufficient Grounds for Undue Hardship Waiver. The fact that a student is unable or desires to participate in interscholastic athletics shall not, in and of itself, be grounds for granting an undue hardship waiver request. The fact that a student is retained in a lower grade because he/she misses school for a prolonged period of time due to serious injury or illness, which must be supported by a physician’s record indicating that the absence was directly and solely related to such injury or illness, or events which were beyond the control of the student and/or the parent or guardian which causes the student to miss school for a prolonged period of time causing the student to repeat a grade, may be grounds for granting an undue hardship waiver request. 10.4.5 Mediation of Decisions. The principal of a member school, on behalf of a student, may request that the Executive Director mediate the decision of the Sectional Appeals Committee regarding the student’s eligibility. 10.4.6 Waiver of Bylaws Due to Special Circumstances. The principal of a member school or his/her designee may request a waiver of any Bylaw or other regulation, guideline, policy, or procedure of this Association not directly related to student eligibility when special circumstances, in the opinion of the person or entity making the appeal, call for a relief from or a modification to the effects of the rule. 10.4.7 Appeals of Executive Director’s Findings. The principal of a member school or his/her designee, or any other individual, who is found to be in violation of the rules of this Association by the Executive Director, whether or not such finding results in the imposition of penalty, may appeal the finding of the Executive Director if he/she takes issue with it, or may appeal the penalty imposed, if any, if he/she, while not disagreeing with the finding, believes the penalty to be too severe. 10.4.8 No Appeal or Waiver of Florida Statutes. The Sectional Appeals Committee, the Infraction Appeals Committee and the Board of Directors do not have the authority to waive a provision of the Florida Statutes.

for Waiver ........................................................ 36-39 10.6 Appeal and Request for Waiver Procedures ... 39-41 10.7 Empowerment ...................................................... 41 10.8 Procedure in Cases of Expulsion ......................... 42 10.9 Compliance With Decisions ................................. 42 Look for On Page(s) Look for On Page(s) 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 3 Revised February 20, 2025 Revisions to Bylaws for 2024-25 School Year Bylaw Page(s) Revision 9.1.2.2 24 Modifies language to clarify the types of falsified documents which may impact a student’s eligibility 9.2.2.1 25 Adds language relative to students receiving a PEP scholarship (HB1 - 2023). 9.4 28-30 Modifies language to allow schools to calculate the athletic GPA on the first day of the semester. 9.4.4.1 30 Adds clarifying language relative to grades posted after the first day of the semester. 9.4.7.1 30 Adds language relative to a student continuing to participate in athletics with his/her original cohort. 9.7 31 Modifies language to clarify who may conduct preparticipation physical evaluations. 9.7 31 Modifies/adds language relative to filing and appropriate storage of the EL2 Form. 9.8 32 Adds language relative to the appropriate storage of the EL3 Form. 9.9 32-34 Adds/modifies language relative to amateur status. 10.1.1 34 Adds language relative to member schools to notifying representatives when they receive a sanction. 4 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 CONSTITUTIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 1 Name, Purpose, Objectives, General Terms and Fundamental Belief

10.5.1 Cost of Appeal. The cost of an appeal, if any, including the Association’s attorney fees, shall be borne by the person or entity making the appeal if the finding of the Executive Director or the penalty imposed is upheld or if the request for waiver is denied as in Bylaw 10.4.1. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 37 Revised February 20, 2025 B 10 COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT 10.5.2 Burden of Proof. The burden of showing error in the determination of ineligibility or in showing why a waiver should be granted is on the person or entity making the appeal. Such proof shall include, as a minimum, a brief statement of the facts involved, the specific bylaw(s) or policy(s) involved and argument in support of the relief requested. This statement shall be supported by any relevant documentary evidence available. 10.5.3 Complete and Accurate Submissions. The person or entity making the appeal must ensure that the information submitted to support such appeal or request is complete and accurate. Additional information may be submitted and heard at the time of the appeal, for student eligibility cases (§ 1006.20(7)(g), F.S.). In the event a decision by the Sectional Appeals Committee or the Board of Directors was made based on incomplete or inaccurate information, the decision shall be withdrawn, and the sanctions provided by these bylaws shall apply. 10.5.3.1 Eligibility Appeal Process. A school or student athlete filing an eligibility appeal is permitted to present information or evidence that was not available at the time of the initial determination of eligibility. The appeal committee hearing the appeal (§ 1006.20(7)(g), F.S.): (a) may consider the new information or evidence during the appeal and render a decision; or (b) may suspend the determination of the appeal and remand the appeal to the Executive Director for a new determination; and (c) the decision on the appeal must be made in writing, setting forth the findings of fact and the specific violation(s) upon which the decision is based. 10.5.4 Request for Eligibility Ruling. Each member school principal or his/her designee having reasonable cause to believe that a student is ineligible to participate in, or continue to participate in, interscholastic athletic competition under any provision of these regulations may request an official ruling on the student’s eligibility from the Executive Director on a form to be provided by this Association and must do so at the student’s request. The Executive Director or his/her designee, through the use of clear and convincing evidence and in consideration of the undue hardship principals in Bylaw 10.4.4, shall issue a ruling based on the statement of facts and any other additional information made available to the Executive Director or his/her designee, such additional information shall be included in the official ruling related to the student’s eligibility. In the event the Executive Director later determines that incomplete or inaccurate information has been included in the statement supporting the member schools request for an eligibility ruling, the ruling may be retracted, and such penalties as deemed appropriate may be imposed by the Executive Director against the member school requesting the ruling. The Executive Director or his/her designee cannot provide rulings on eligibility matters that may or will occur in a future school year. Rulings will only be made on eligibility matters for the current school year. 10.5.5 Initial Appeals or Requests for Waivers. Initial appeals or requests for waivers will be heard by the Sectional Appeals Committee. The Sectional Appeals Committee cannot provide rulings on eligibility matters that may or will occur in a future school year. Rulings will only be made on eligibility matters for the current school year. 10.5.5.1 Exception. Eligibility matters involving Limit of Eligibility and Age may be appealed in the month of April in the school year prior to the student becoming ineligible. 10.5.6 Subsequent Appeals or Requests for Waivers. Unfavorable decision found on the initial appeal or request for waiver rendered by the Sectional Appeals Committee will be heard by: (a) The Sectional Appeals Committee, provided new information is provided, or (b) The Board of Directors, which will consider any evidence that was presented to the Sectional Appeals Committee, and decisions will be final. 10.5.7 Appeals of Major Violations. Appeals of major violations will be heard by the Infraction Appeals Committee. Decisions of the Infraction Appeals Committee can be appealed to the Board of Directors. Decisions by the Board of Directors will be final. 10.5.7.1 Infraction Appeals Committee 10.5.7.1.1 Purpose of Committee. The Board of Directors appoints an Infractions Appeals Committee to hear and act upon appeals of schools found to have committed major violations. 10.5.7.1.2 Composition of Committee. The committee is composed of five members as follows: (a) One public school member, who must be a school-based administrator; (b) One public school member, who must be either a school-based administrator or a district-level administrator; (c) One private school member, who must be a school-based administrator; (d) One private school member, who must be either a school-based administrator or a regional or state-level administrator in a private school accrediting organization that is recognized by the FHSAA; and (e) One attorney who within the last five years has been a member in good standing of the Florida Bar or the bar of any other state in the union, and who cannot be connected with any member school, public school district or private school accrediting organization, or represent student-athletes, coaches or athletic directors in any manner. 38 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 10.5.7.1.2.1 Restrictions on Appointments. No member of the Board of Directors or any Sectional Appeals Committee can serve on the Infractions Appeals Committee. The two public school members cannot be from the same public school district. The two private school members cannot be from the same private school accrediting organization. Otherwise, there are no restrictions on who may be appointed to the committee. 10.5.7.1.2.2 Quorum and Alternate Members. A quorum of the committee is four members. The Board of Directors will designate alternates the Executive Director may call as substitutes to ensure a quorum when regular committee members are absent. 10.5.7.1.2.3 Attorney Serves as Committee Chair. The attorney member chairs the committee and is the only committee member who may have contact with the FHSAA staff regarding any case. The committee elects from among its remaining four members a vice chair who presides when the chair is absent or unable to act. 10.5.7.1.3 Term of Service. A member serves a term of three years, except as stipulated in paragraph 10.5.7.1.3.1 below. A member may be reappointed to a second term but cannot serve more than six years on the committee. 10.5.7.1.3.1 Initial Terms of Service to Establish Rotation. To ensure that the terms of all members of the committee do not expire at the same time, each member initially appointed to the committee will serve the following initial terms of service: (a) The attorney will serve an initial term of five years and may be reappointed to a second term of three years; (b) One of the public school administrators and one of the private school administrators, selected at random by the Board of Directors, will serve an initial term of four years and may be reappointed to a second term of three years; and (c) The remaining public school administrator and private school administrator will serve an initial term of three years and may be reappointed to a second term of three years. 10.5.7.1.4 Authority and Duties of Committee. The committee: (a) Hears and acts upon appeals of schools found to have committed major violations; or (b) Hears and acts on appeals arising from a situation involving or affecting member schools in more than one administrative section; or (c) Hears and acts on requests of waiver of a rule that, if granted, would affect member schools in more than one administrative section; or (d) Makes recommendations to the Board of Directors and FHSAA staff relative to the formulation and revision of FHSAA enforcement policies and procedures. 10.5.7.1.5 Committee to Meet as Needed. The committee meets as needed upon call of the chair in consultation with the Executive Director. 10.5.8 Emergency Hearings. The President of the Association may conduct an emergency meeting of the Board of Directors by teleconference if, and only if, a decision made by the Executive Director or a Sectional Appeals Committee would eliminate a school, in a team sport, or an individual, in an individual sport, from a Florida High School State Championship Series contest before the next meeting of the Board of Directors. The President shall not conduct an emergency meeting of the Board of Directors to consider undue hardship cases, or other cases, affecting a student’s eligibility unless such student’s eligibility would eliminate a school, in a team sport, or the student, in an individual sport, from a Florida High School State Championship Series contest before the next meeting of the Board of Directors. In the event a member school requests an emergency hearing before the Board of Directors, requesting such hearing the member school consents to the hearing being conducted by teleconference and agrees to pay all expense including expenses such as the cost of the teleconference and the costs of the stenographic recording of such hearing.

10.6.1 Filing an Initial Appeal or Request for Waiver. An appeal or request for waiver must be filed with the Executive Director in the format provided by this Association and must be accompanied by all necessary documentation. The appeal or request, including all required documentation, must be signed by the principal, and received in the office of this Association not later than 5 p.m. Eastern Time on the filing dates established by the Board of Directors and printed in the FHSAA Planning Calendar. Appeals and requests received after the deadline date will not be considered at that Sectional Appeals Committee meeting but will be placed on the agenda for the next regularly scheduled meeting. Incomplete appeals or requests for waiver will be returned to the person or entity making the appeal for an opportunity to resubmit with all the necessary information prior to the deadline if time allows. The Sectional Appeals Committee cannot provide rulings on eligibility matters that may or will occur in a future school year. Rulings will only be made on eligibility matters for the current school year. 10.6.2 Filing an Appeal or Request for Waiver to the Board of Directors. The request for an appeal hearing before the Board of Directors must be made in writing to the Executive Director, must be signed by the member school principal or his/her designee and must be received in the office of this Association within five (5) business days following the date of the Sectional Appeals Committee meeting or the Infraction Appeals Committee meeting. Failure to file a request for an appeal hearing before the Board of Directors within the five (5) business days following the date of the Sectional Appeals Committee meeting or the Infraction Appeals Committee meeting shall be deemed a waiver of the right of an appeal as granted herein. The Board of Directors cannot provide rulings on eligibility matters that may or will occur in a future school year. Rulings will only be made on eligibility matters for the current school year.

Emergency Appeals Committee and/or Board of Directors. The person or entity making the appeal has the opportunity to appear before the Sectional Appeals Committee, Infraction Appeals Committee, Emergency Appeals Committee and/ or the Board of Directors if he/she so chooses. The person or entity making the appeal must give notice of their choice to appear at the time the appeal or request for waiver is filed. Appearance by the student and a school representative, in person or through video teleconference, is mandatory for an appeal or request for undue hardship waiver involving age, limit of eligibility and unsportsmanlike conduct provisions when heard by the Sectional Appeals Committee and is optional when heard by the Board of Directors. 10.6.3.1 Appeal Hearing Option. The person or entity requesting an appeal has the opportunity to appear before the Sectional, Infractions or Emergency Appeals Committee at the site of the hearing or via Teleconference. The choice of the method of appearance must be indicated on the form provided by the association. 10.6.3.2 Appeal Hearings via Teleconference 10.6.3.2.1 Teleconference Hearings. By requesting an Appeal Hearing via Teleconference, the member school and the student consents to such a hearing being conducted via appropriate teleconference methods (i.e., tele/video conferencing, webinar, Skype, etc.). It is the responsibility of the school requesting a hearing before an Appeal Committee via Teleconference to provide the appropriate teleconference equipment to participate in the hearing and to have a notary public present at the time and location where the appealing school and student will be located. Filing an appeal through the Teleconference option must meet the same standards as indicated in Bylaw 10.6.1. 10.6.3.2.2 Teleconference Requirements. The teleconference shall be stenographically recorded and shall be conducted in such a manner that any member of the public shall have access to the telephone conference by telephone. The notice shall provide the information necessary to allow public access by telephone to the telephone conference meeting. 10.6.3.3 Procedure for Appearance . A person or entity making the appeal who is required, or who chooses, to appear before the Sectional Appeals Committee, Infraction Appeals Committee and/or the Board of Directors will be assigned a time for the appearance. A twenty (20)-minute block will be allotted for each case involving an appearance. B 10 COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT 40 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 10.6.3.4 Student Appearance. A student who is required, or chooses, to appear before the Sectional Appeals Committee, Infraction Appeals Committee and/or the Board of Directors must be accompanied by a school representative and may be accompanied by his/her parent(s) or other individuals with whom he/she lives. The school representative who is required to accompany the student must be a full-time employee of the school and must be identified on the form at the time of filing. The student may be represented by an attorney. Such representation will not excuse the appearance of a student when that appearance is required. 10.6.3.5 Additional Information. Additional information may be submitted and heard at the time of the appeal, for student eligibility cases (§ 1006.20(7)(g), F.S.). 10.6.4 Appeals of Executive Director’s Findings. To appeal the finding of the Executive Director, the appeal must be filed so that it is received in the office of this Association within ten (10) business days of the receipt of the Executive Director’s finding and/or notification of the imposition of penalty. Failure to file an appeal so that it is received in the office of this Association within the ten (10) business days allowed shall be deemed a waiver of the right to appeal as granted herein.

10.8.1 Procedures. When the Executive Director believes that his/her findings in any investigation into any violation of any rule of this Association warrants the expulsion of a member school or a restriction of its membership privileges, the following procedure must be followed: (a) Notice. The Executive Director will notify in writing the principal of the school of the date, time, and site of the Board of Directors meeting at which a hearing on the school’s membership status will be conducted. The notice must state the findings of the Executive Director and must advise the principal of his/her obligation to represent his/her school at the hearing. This notice must be received by the principal of the school not fewer than 10 business days in advance of the date of the hearing. (b) Hearings. During the hearing before the Board of Directors, the school may have an attorney present, may present witnesses, testimony, and any other relevant evidence or information for consideration by the Board of Directors. The Executive Director may also present witnesses, testimony, and any other relevant evidence or information for consideration by the Board of Directors. (c) Final Decision. Following the presentation of evidence and arguments, the Board of Directors will render its decision by majority vote. The Board of Directors is empowered to sustain, modify, or reject the findings and recommendation of the Executive Director. The decision of the Board of Directors will be final. 10.8.2 Applying for Reinstatement. A school that has been expelled or has had its membership privileges restricted for a period of one or more calendar years may apply for readmission or reinstatement of its membership privileges after a period of one calendar year and then yearly thereafter. The principal of the school must notify the Executive Director in writing that he/she intends to apply for readmission or reinstatement and request to be placed on the agenda for the next regularly scheduled meeting of the Board of Directors. The principal will make a verbal appeal for readmission or reinstatement before the Board of Directors at that meeting. A school that has been expelled or has had its membership privileges restricted may be readmitted or have its membership privileges reinstated only upon approval by a majority vote of the Board of Directors.

The administrative decisions of the Board of Directors, Infraction Appeals Committee, Sectional Appeals Committee and Executive Director shall be accepted in good faith by all member schools. The principal of any member school who, by any act or attitude, shall refuse to accept, or shall hold in contempt or derision, or shall permit or acquiesce in such contempt or derision on the part of any group or individual associated with his/her school, shall subject his/her school to expulsion from this Association. These provisions are not to be construed as preventing the principal of a member school from exercising his/her school’s right to due process by appealing decisions of the Executive Director to the Sectional Appeals Committee, Infraction Appeals Committee and/or the Board of Directors. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 43 Revised February 20, 2025 Administrative Policies of the Florida High School Athletic Association, Inc. 2024-25 Edition Pursuant to the authority granted it in Article 4.3 of the FHSAA Bylaws, the FHSAA Board of Directors has established the following policies to govern the Association’s interscholastic athletic programs. In the case of any conflict, whether actual or believed, with the Bylaws of the FHSAA, the Bylaws shall control. Any understanding, misunderstanding, opinion, or belief by an individual as a result of reading these policies shall not be binding on the FHSAA. The term “Executive Director” as used throughout these policies shall mean the Executive Director of the FHSAA or his/her designee, unless otherwise specifically noted. Official rulings shall be requested in writing only by the principal or designated official representative of a member school and shall be provided in writing by the Executive Director or his/her designee. Only a formal ruling by the Executive Director or his/her designee is binding on the FHSAA. General failure to comply with FHSAA Policies will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per occurrence. Substantive changes for the 2024-25 school year are shaded. 44 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 Table of Contents for Administrative Policies ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES Revisions to Policies for 2024-25 School Year ............. 45 Policy 1. Apportionment of Administrative Sections ............. 46 2. Diversity in Leadership ........................................... 46 3. Categorization of Interscholastic Sports ........... 46-48 4. Interscholastic Contests .................................... 48-50 5. Membership ...................................................... 50-51 6. Sport Season Limitations .................................. 51-53 7. Special and Sanctioned Athletic Events ........... 53-54 8. Member School Insurance Requirements .............. 54 9. Finances ........................................................... 55-60 10. Florida High School State Championship Series ................................................................ 60-62 11. Rosters .............................................................. 62-63 12. Classification ..................................................... 63-66 13. Districts & District Meetings, Scheduling, Seeding, Bracketing & Tournaments/Meets ...... 66-67 14. Minimum Facility Specifications for Florida High School State Championship Series Contests ... 67-69 15. Florida High School State Championship Series Passes ................................................... 69-70 16. Eligibility Criteria ............................................... 70-74 17. Eligibility of Youth Exchange, Other International and Immigrant Students ............... 74-77 18. Practices and Scrimmages ............................... 78-79 19. Advisory Committees ........................................ 79-83 20. Summer Athletic Participation ........................... 83-84 21. Off-Season Conditioning ................................... 84-85 22. Non-School Team and/or Off-Season Participation ...................................................... 85-86 23. Open Facilities Program ........................................ 86 24. Coaching Schools, Camps, Clinics, Combines or Workshops by Member Schools ........................ 87 ADMINISTRATIVE POLICIES (cont’d) Policy 25. Participation by Student-Athletes and Teams in Coaching Schools, Camps, Clinics, Combines or Workshops .................................................... 87-88 26. Participation by Student-Athletes in All-Star Games and Showcases .................................... 88-89 27. Schools’ Responsibilities to FHSAA Officials ......... 89 28. Rules of Conduct for FHSAA Officials ............... 89-90 29. Crowd Control ................................................... 90-91 30. Unsportsmanlike Conduct ................................. 91-93 31. Use of Alcohol, Tobacco, Human Growth Hormones, Steroids, Performance-Enhancing Drugs, or Schedule 3 Narcotics ........................ 93-94 32. Inclement Weather and Suspended Contests ....... 94 33. Sideline Cheerleading ....................................... 94-95 34. Photographing, Filming and Videotaping Athletic Contests .................................................... 95 35. Boarding Schools Home Stay Programs and Sports Academies ............................................. 95-97 36. Athletic Recruiting ........................................... 98-100 37. Improper Contact and Impermissible Benefits ......................................................... 100-102 38. Financial Assistance ..................................... 102-104 39. Investigative Procedures ............................... 104-105 40. Concussions ................................................. 105-107 41. Exertional Heat Illness .................................. 107-113 42. Sudden Cardiac Arrest ................................... 113-114 43. Emergency Action Plan .................................. 114-116 44. Licensing and Royalties ................................. 116-117 45. Media Credentials for Florida High School State Championship Series Events ............... 117-118 46. Monetary Penalties & Administrative Fees ... 119-121 Look for On Page(s) Look for On Page(s) 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 45 Revised February 20, 2025 Revisions to Administrative Policies for 2024-25 School Year (below are the major substantive changes to the Administrative Policies) Policy Page(s) Revision 4.1.5 49 Requires team sports other than football to report scores within 24 hours of a contest. 6.1.2 52 Reduces the maximum number of regular season contests for cross country and increases the maximum number of preseason matches for golf. 10.3.2 61 Reduces the number of required regular season contests for cross country. 12 65-66 Modifies language relative to classifications. 13 66 Modifies language relative to required district play. 16.1 70-71 Modifies language to allow schools to calculate the athletic GPA on the first day of the semester. 20.1.2 83 Adds language to permit schools to participate in a padded contact camp during the summer. 22.3.3 86 Adds language to prohibit non-school teams from using school mascots and logos. 38.1 102 Adds language to permit schools to provide merit scholarships and tuition reduction programs. 40 106-107 Provides updates from the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 41 107-113 Provides updates from the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 42 114 Provides updates from the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 43 114-115 Provides updates from the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 46 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 1 APPORTIONMENT OF ADMINISTRATIVE SECTIONS 1.1 Board of Director Apportionment Charge. Bylaw 3.11.1 charges the Board of Directors with the responsibility of dividing the Association’s membership along existing county lines into four contiguous and compact administrative sections, each containing an equal or nearly equal number of member schools to ensure equitable representation on the Association’s Board of Directors, Representative Assembly and Sectional Appeals Committees. 1.1.1 Executive Director Evaluation for Apportionment. The Executive Director, each six years, shall be directed to undertake and prepare for review by the Board of Directors an evaluation of the existing apportionment of the administrative sections. This evaluation shall be presented to the Board of Directors as an informational item not later than its September meeting. 1.1.2 Need for Reapportionment. Should the Board of Directors determine that a reapportionment of the administrative sections is needed, it shall direct the Executive Director to develop one or more reapportionment plans for its consideration. The reapportionment plans will be advertised on the FHSAA website and placed on the agenda for action by the Board of Directors at its November meeting. 1.1.3 Effective Date of Reapportionment. The reapportionment of administrative sections shall be effective with the annual election of the Association that begins in February of that school year to seat member school representatives of the Board of Directors, Representative Assembly and Sectional Appeals Committees in the following school year. 1.1.4 Next Review Period. Pursuant to this policy, the next review of the apportionment of administrative sections by the Board of Directors shall be conducted in the fall of 2026. Any reapportionment resulting from this review shall be in effect for the elections to be conducted beginning in February 2027. POLICY 2 LEADERSHIP 2.1 Leadership. The Association shall promote representation of its member schools within its governance structure and substructures. 2.1.1 Charge to Executive Director. The Executive Director shall actively solicit and encourage eligible individuals to seek election to available member school positions within the Association governance structure. 2.1.2 Charge to Board of Directors. The Executive Director shall actively seek out and recommend to the Board of Directors eligible individuals for appointment to fill vacancies in member school positions within the Association governance structure whenever such vacancies occur. 2.1.3 Charge to Commissioner of Education, Superintendents, and School Boards. The Executive Director shall encourage the Commissioner of Education, the Florida School Boards Association, and the Florida Association of District School Superintendents to seek out eligible individuals when appointing and/or electing their respective representatives to positions in the Association governance structure. 2.1.4 Charge to Advisory Committees. The Executive Director and staff shall actively seek out and appoint eligible individuals to fill vacancies on the various advisory committees whenever such vacancies occur. 2.1.5 Barriers Addressed. Barriers that may inhibit eligible individuals from seeking or attaining leadership positions will be identified and addressed. POLICY 3 CATEGORIZATION OF INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS 3.1 General Principles. The following guidelines shall govern the categorization of interscholastic sports programs sponsored by member schools, as well as the implementation of Florida High School State Championship Series competitions in those sports. These guidelines establish the thresholds (minimum standards) that sports must meet for categorization and Florida High School State Championship Series implementation. Any member school that sponsors a sport, as defined in Policy 3, that is recognized or sanctioned by this Association shall abide by all regulations of this Association.

12.1.1 Membership Classification. Membership classifications will be applied for administrative and Florida High School State Championship Series purposes. A member school may not participate in a classification above or below that to which it is assigned on the basis of its student population, except as provided herein. 12.1.2 Senior High Only. Only senior high schools and combination schools with senior high school grade levels (i.e., grades 9, 10, 11, and/or 12) shall be classified. 12.1.3 Classification Cycle. Schools shall be classified on a biennial basis. 12.1.4 Each Sport Classified. Each sport shall be classified according to the guidelines and criteria herein. 12.2 Classification Criteria 12.2.1 Existing Member Schools. An existing member senior high school shall be classified on the basis of the school’s traditional student population in the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades as reported during the week in October designated by the Florida Department of Education for the fall semester FTE survey of public schools, combined with the total number of non-traditional students from the previous school year. Each member school shall be responsible for reporting to the FHSAA its student population as required. The FHSAA may spot-check and/or audit the student population report submitted by any member school. Student populations for schools that enroll girls only or boys only (i.e., one sex comprises greater than 90 percent of the student body) shall be doubled for classification purposes. 12.2.1.1 Traditional Students. Traditional students are students who are enrolled in and physically attend the school at which they participate. This includes any student whose records are being kept by the school (i.e., dual enrolled/early admission students as per Bylaw 9.2.2.8). 64 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 12.2.1.2 Non-Traditional Students. Non-traditional Students are students who are not enrolled in nor physically attend the school at which they participate. 12.2.1.3 Population Count of Non-traditional Students. The count of non-traditional students will be the number of students in each category from the previous school year. 12.2.2 New Member Schools. A senior high school applying for new membership in the Association shall be classified in its initial year of membership on the basis of the school’s student population in the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades combined at the conclusion of the previous school year as reported to the FHSAA on the school’s application for membership. 12.2.3 New Schools. A newly opening senior high school applying for new membership in the Association shall be classified in its initial year of membership on the basis of the school’s projected student population in the grades with which the school will open. This projected student population must be submitted by the district superintendent for a public school or the senior administrator for a private school and must be certified with their respective signatures. If the actual student population reported for the school in October of the school year would place it into a classification lower than that of its projected student population, the school shall be required to compete in the Florida High School State Championship Series in the higher classification. If, however, the school’s actual student population would place it into a classification higher than that of its projected student population, the school shall not be eligible to compete in the Florida High School State Championship Series in the lower classification. An error margin of 10 percent will be allowed for discrepancies between the projected student population and actual student population of a school that is so classified. If the school’s actual student population is greater than 10 percent of its projected student population, the school shall immediately be reclassified on the basis of its actual student population. 12.2.4 Significant Increase or Decrease in Student Population. An existing member senior high school that expects to incur a significant increase or decrease in student population the following school year due to the opening of a new school or to the redrawing of attendance zone boundaries by the district school board may request to be classified on the basis of the school’s projected student population for the following school year rather than the school’s actual student population reported in the current school year. This projected student population must be submitted by the district superintendent for a public school or the senior administrator for a private school and must be certified with their respective signatures. If a school requesting to be classified on such a projection reports an actual student population in October of the following school year that would place it into a classification lower than that of its projected student population, the school shall be required to compete in the Florida High School State Championship Series in the higher classification. If, however, the school’s actual student population would place it into a classification higher than that of its projected student population, the school shall not be eligible to compete in the Florida High School State Championship Series in the lower classification. 12.2.5 Missing Grade Levels. In the event an existing member senior high school does not have each of the 9th, 10th, 11th and 12th grades, its student population for classification purposes shall be adjusted as follows: 12.2.5.1 For a three-year senior high school (grades 10, 11 and 12 only) that does not have a 9th grade, the percentage of the total membership’s student population in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades that is constituted by the 9th grade shall be added to the school’s student population in the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades. 12.2.5.2 For a senior high school in its initial year of existence that opens with the 9th, 10th and 11th grades only or in its second or third year of existence with the 9th, 10th, and 11th grades only, the percentage of the total membership’s student population in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades that is constituted by the 12th grade shall be added to the school’s student population in the 9th, 10th, and 11th grades. 12.2.5.3 For a senior high school in its initial year of existence that opens with the 9th and 10th grades only, the percentage of the total membership’s student population in the 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th grades that is constituted by the 11th and 12th grades shall be added to the school’s student population in the 9th and 10th grades. 12.2.5.4 For a senior high school in its initial year of existence that opens with a 9th grade only, the percentage of the total membership’s student population in the 9th, 10th and 11th grades that is constituted by the 10th and 11th grades shall be added to the school’s student population in the 9th grade. 12.2.6 Executive Director Classification Authority. The Executive Director, at his/her discretion, may administratively assign a school to the next classification lower than the classification to which it would otherwise be assigned if the school is geographically isolated from other schools in the classification to which it would be assigned; and 12.2.7 Geographically Isolated Schools. A school that is geographically isolated from other schools in the classification to which it is assigned may submit in writing to the Executive Director a request that it be administratively reassigned to the next higher classification. The Executive Director may honor such a request if, in his/her opinion, there are other schools in the higher classification that are in closer geographic proximity to the school submitting the request for reassignment. 12.2.8 Re-Classification. A school may be reassigned in classification for the subsequent year(s) of the classification cycle under the following circumstances: 12.2.8.1 A school classified as Rural , as identified in Policy 12.3.2.1 or Policy 12.4.2.1, which, during a classification cycle, no longer qualifies for the Rural class, as identified in Policy 12.3.2.1 or Policy 12.4.2.1, will be assigned to the classification for which they qualify, based upon the student population for that classification. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 65 Revised February 20, 2025 12.2.8.2 A school that reports in the subsequent year(s) of the classification term an increase in student population that equals or exceeds 20 percent of the student population number that was used to assign the school to its current classification shall be reassigned to a higher classification if: (a) the higher student population would place the school into a higher classification; and (b) every other school in the current classification that has not experienced an equal or greater percentage increase in student population has a student population that is less than the higher student population of the school in question. 12.2.8.3 A school that will experience an increase in student population in the subsequent year(s) of the classification term due to the addition of one or more grades shall be assigned to a higher classification if: (a) the higher student population computed in accordance with this policy would place the school into a higher classification; and (b) every other school in the current classification that is not similarly adding one or more grades has a student population that is less than that of the school in question. 12.2.8.4 A school that reports in the subsequent year(s) of the classification term a decrease in student population that equals or exceeds 20 percent of the student population number that was used to assign the school to its current classification shall be reassigned to a lower classification if: (a) the lower student population would place the school into a lower classification; and (b) every other school in the current classification that has not experienced an equal or greater percentage decrease in student population has a student population that is more than the lower student population of the school in question. 12.2.8.5 A school that will experience a decrease in student population in the subsequent year(s) of the classification term due to the opening of a new school or the redrawing of school attendance boundaries shall be assigned to a lower classification if: (a) the lower student population projected by the district school board office would place the school into a lower classification; and (b) every other school in the current classification that is not similarly decreasing in student population because of these reasons has a student population that is more than that of the school in question. 12.3 Baseball, Girls and Boys Basketball, Football , Girls and Boys Soccer, Softball, Girls Volleyball 12.3.1 Number of Classifications. The Florida High School State Championship Series in the sports of baseball, girls and boys basketball, football, girls and boys soccer, softball, and girls volleyball for the current classification cycle shall be conducted in seven (7) classifications in addition to a Rural classification. The classifications are 7A, 6A, 5A, 4A, 3A, 2A, 1A, and Rural. 12.3.2 Division of Classifications. 12.3.2.1 For each sport, the total number of existing member senior high schools which commit to participate in the state series in each sport shall be ranked in order of student population. The student population of the smallest school in each classification shall form the dividing line between that classification and the next lowest classification. Schools that have the same student population as a school whose student population forms the dividing line between classifications shall be placed with that school into the higher classification. The requisite number of schools then shall be assigned to each successive classification. Once the dividing lines between classifications for a classification term are determined, they shall not be changed during that classification term. Schools located in geographic areas that are eligible as determined by the Rural Economic Development Initiative (REDI), population density by zip code, and median family income by zip code may be placed in the Rural classification. The schools that will be placed in Rural will be determined by using the student population of the lowest thirty-two (32) populated schools that commit to the Rural classification in the sport of football. That student population line will determine the student population to qualify for the Rural classification for that cycle for all the sports listed in Policy 12.3. Any school that accepts placement in the Rural classification will remain in the Rural classification for the duration of that cycle. In order to offer a Rural classification, there must be a minimum of twenty-four (24) schools. 12.3.2.1.1 For the 2024-25 and 2025-26 school years, the Rural classification for football will consist of the lowest forty (40) populated schools that commit to the Rural classification. 12.3.2.2 A new member school that requests to participate in the FHSAA State Football Series at the time of joining, and is eligible to do so, shall be assigned to the appropriate classification according to its student population or projected student population beginning with the next two-year scheduling cycle. 12.3.3 Assignment to Districts/Regions. Schools in classifications 7A-1A and Rural shall be assigned as evenly as practical to districts on a geographic basis. P 12 CLASSIFICATION 66 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 12. 4 Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Competitive Cheerleading, Cross Country, Flag Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field, Boys Volleyball, Water Polo, Weightlifting and Wrestling 12. 4 .1 Number of Classifications. 12. 4 .1.1 The maximum number of classifications in any individual sport shall not exceed four (4). 12. 4 .1.2 The number of classifications in the Florida High School State Championship Series for the current classification term shall be determined by the number of member senior high schools sponsoring varsity interscholastic programs in those sports. If 200 or more of the member senior high schools sponsor a varsity interscholastic program in a sport, there may be two (2) classifications; if 300 or more of the member senior high schools sponsor a varsity interscholastic program in a sport, there may be three (3) classifications; and if 400 or more of the member senior high schools sponsor a varsity interscholastic program in a sport, there may be four (4) classifications. The number of classifications in a sport shall not be changed except in the first year of a classification term. 12. 4 .1.3 Sports shall be classified together without regard to sex , unless otherwise stipulated by the Board of Directors. 12. 4 .1.4 The number of classifications in each sport for the current classification cycle are as follows: cross country, flag football, swimming & diving, tennis and track & field four (4) classifications (4A, 3A, 2A, 1A); boys volleyball, golf, girls weightlifting, boys weightlifting and boys wrestling three (3) classifications (3A, 2A, 1A); beach volleyball, girls lacrosse, and boys lacrosse two (2) classifications (2A, 1A); competitive cheerleading two (2) classifications (2A, 1A); a single classification in the sports of bowling, water polo , and girls wrestling . 12. 4 .2 Division of Classifications. 12. 4 .2.1 Once the total number of classifications in a sport is determined according to the criteria above, the total number of schools that commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series in the sport shall be ranked in order of student population and evenly divided across the total number of classifications determined for that sport. Any remainder shall be evenly distributed among the classifications beginning with the lowest classification and working up. The student population of the smallest school assigned to each classification shall form the dividing line between that classification and the next lowest classification. Schools that have the same student population as a school whose student population forms the dividing line between classifications shall be placed with that school into the higher classification. The requisite number of schools then shall be assigned to each successive classification. Once the dividing lines between classifications for a classification term are determined, they shall not be changed during that classification term. 12. 4 .2.2 A new member school that requests to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series in an individual sport at the time of joining, and is eligible to do so, shall be assigned to the appropriate classification according to its student population or projected student population. 12. 4 .3 Assignment to Districts. Schools in each classification shall be assigned to districts on a geographic basis with an effort to balance the number of schools in the districts when possible. POLICY 13 DISTRICTS AND DISTRICT MEETINGS, SCHEDULING, SEEDING, BRACKETING AND TOURNAMENTS/ MEETS 13.1 District Assignments. Schools that commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series in a sport shall be assigned as evenly as practical on a geographical basis to a district in the appropriate classification. For all classifications, the winner of the tournament shall represent that district in the remainder of the Florida High School State Championship Series. The remaining four (4) state series places in each region shall be determined by a power ranking system. 13.1.1 District Coordinator. One school in each district will be designated as the district coordinator. The FHSAA representative or his/her designee at the district coordinator school shall be responsible for hosting, conducting, and reporting to the FHSAA Office results of the district scheduling/planning meeting upon the conclusion of the meeting but no later than seven (7) days following the meeting. Upon conclusion of the district planning meeting and receipt of the meeting minutes, the tournament/meet manager is responsible for all aspects of the district tournament/meet.

13.2.1 District Schedule. 13.2.1.1 For classifications 7A-1A in football, regular season district games are required. 13.2.1.2 For all classifications in girls volleyball, boys basketball, girls basketball, boys soccer, girls soccer, baseball, softball, flag football, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, boys volleyball, boys water polo, and girls water polo, a regular season district game is not required. Districts cannot vote to require the district to mandate district games during the regular season. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 67 Revised February 20, 2025 13.2.2 Scheduling and Planning Meeting. A district scheduling/planning meeting shall be conducted in each sport to determine a site and make arrangements for the district tournament/meet, including the selection of officials, and to make arrangements for the district tournament/meet for the following season according to the following basic guidelines: 13.2.2.1 The meeting in each district shall be conducted by the FHSAA representative of the member school that is designated the coordinator, by the FHSAA Office, for that respective district. The site and time of the meeting shall be determined by the district coordinator, except that the time of the meeting should cause no loss of time from school for any attendee. The district coordinator shall give written notice to the FHSAA representative, athletic director, and appropriate head coach of each school in his/ her district as to the date, time, and site of the meeting at least seven (7) days in advance of the date of the meeting. If, however, the FHSAA representative, athletic director and appropriate head coach at a given school has not received written notification from the district coordinator as to the date, time, and site of the meeting, it is his/her responsibility to contact the district coordinator for the arrangements. 13.2.2.2 The athletic director or FHSAA representative of each school in the district is encouraged to attend or otherwise to send a representative to attend the meeting and vote on behalf of the school on all matters pertaining to plans for the district tournament. If a school wishes to submit an invitation to host the district tournament at the meeting and its representative present is not the principal, FHSAA representative or athletic director, the representative must have in his/her possession a letter of invitation signed by one or more of the principals, FHSAA representative, or athletic director. A district coordinator may request of the Executive Director or his/ her designee permission to conduct a district scheduling/ planning meeting by teleconference if his/her district is spread over a large geographic area. 13.2.3 Postponed Contests. If a scheduled contest is postponed due to inclement weather or other unforeseen and unavoidable situations and can only be played after the deadline, the Executive Director may grant permission for the contest to be played after the deadline and counted. This exception, however, will be granted only if the contest was originally scheduled to be played prior to the deadline. For team sports, for seeding purposes, contests played after the deadlines set on the FHSAA Calendar will not be calculated into a team’s ranking. 13.2.4 Satisfaction of Requirements. The manner in which any two schools within a district satisfy these requirements is at the discretion of the two schools, provided the contests are part of the regular season schedule of both schools and not contests played between the two schools as part of a tournament. It is not necessary that the two contests be played on a home-and-home basis. It is acceptable for the two schools to play either or both contests at a neutral site or both contests at either school’s facility. If, however, two schools in a district cannot agree to any alternative arrangement, then they must play each other on a home-and-home basis. 13.3 Seeding and Bracketing. 13.3.1 Bracket Seeding. Each school in a district shall be seeded and placed on the bracket for its district tournament according to the following provisions: 13.3.1.1 For all classifications in girls volleyball, boys basketball, girls basketball, boys soccer, girls soccer, baseball, softball, flag football, boys lacrosse, girls lacrosse, boys volleyball, boys water polo, and girls water polo, each school will be seeded based on their power ranking utilizing the Association’s approved ranking system. The seeding will use regular season contests played on or prior to the Saturday one week prior to the first allowable date for the district tournament. 13.3.2 Bracketing. For the sports of baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, girls and boys soccer, softball, girls volleyball, flag football, boys volleyball, lacrosse, and water polo, every district member shall be placed on the tournament bracket according to seed. A single-elimination, standard progression bracket shall be used. The No. 1, 4, 5, 8, 9, 12, 13 and 16 seeds shall be placed in the upper half of the bracket and the No. 2, 3, 6, 7, 10, 11, 14 and 15 seeds shall be placed in the lower half of the bracket. Byes, if any, shall be awarded to the higher-seeded schools. The higher-seeded team of the bracket in each tournament contest shall be designated the home school for that contest. POLICY 14 MINIMUM FACILITY SPECIFICATIONS FOR FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES CONTESTS 14.1 General Principles. The FHSAA Board of Directors has established the following minimum specifications for facilities in which Florida High School State Championship Series contests for district and region events are to be held, unless mutually agreed upon by all involved parties. When state semi-finals are hosted at a school, the FHSAA will determine minimum facility requirements on a per event basis that may exceed the requirements for district and region. For all other sports, the FHSAA will determine minimum facility requirements on a per event basis. 14.1.1 Options to Remedy Inadequate Facilities. These specifications do not preclude a school with inadequate facilities from hosting a Florida High School State Championship Series contest. Schools that cannot meet the specifications can appeal to the Executive Director or his/her designee for relief by following one of the options below. P 14 MINIMUM FACILITY SPECIFICATIONS 68 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 14.1.1.1 Deferring Host Responsibility. If a school in line to host a contest has inadequate facilities and chooses not to host the contest at another site, the visiting school will be given the opportunity to host the event in its facilities, if adequate, or at an adequate neutral site, if not. 14.1.1.2 Hosting at a Neutral Site. A school with inadequate facilities may choose to host the contest in a neutral facility which meets the necessary specifications. Rental expenses involved in securing an adequate facility can only be claimed as a host expense if both the host and visitor schools have inadequate facilities and no reasonable alternative is available. The maximum host expense that can be claimed for costs involving an off-campus facility (rent, utilities, cleaning, etc.) on the FHSAA financial report is $1,000 for all sports, except Swimming & Diving. In the sport of Swimming & Diving, the host may offset a maximum of $2,500 facility cost with entry fees from participants without approval of the Executive Director. 14.1.1.3 Improving Existing Facilities to Meet Minimum Requirements. A facility with seating capacities less than the minimums may set up portable seating at its own expense in order to satisfy minimum requirements. Rental, delivery, set up and take down expenses involved in securing portable seating cannot be claimed as a host expense on the FHSAA financial report for the event. 14.1.1.4 Districts Lacking Adequate Facilities. A district in which no school has a facility that meets these minimum specifications must either play its district tournament at an adequate neutral facility or place it at the district school whose facility is closest to these minimum specifications. Only those schools that have filed the necessary facility specifications reports with the FHSAA Office will be eligible to host a Florida High School State Championship Series contest. Schools that cannot meet the specifications can appeal to the Executive Director or his/her designee for relief. 14.1.2 Increasing Capacity Beyond Minimum Requirements. Any expense incurred by a host school to increase the capacity of facilities beyond the minimum required specifications cannot be claimed as a host expense on financial reports when determining share of gate for the visiting school or the FHSAA unless prior approval is given by all parties involved. 14.2 Determination of Host School. Determination of a host school is not absolute. In all cases, the FHSAA reserves the right to select an alternate site. 14.3 Minimum Facility Requirements for Florida High School State Championship Series Events. 14.3.1 Minimum Facility Requirements. Minimum facility requirements for each sport will be outlined in the individual sport manual. If applicable, these requirements include, but are not limited to: 14.3.1.1 The facility must be adequately constructed to control the entry and exit of spectators for the purpose of charging admission. 14.3.1.2 The facility must have a minimum of two restrooms (one male and one female) for public use. 14.3.1.3 The facility must have an electronic clock and scoreboard clearly visible to both team bench areas and spectators. 14.3.1.4 The facility must have a public address system. 14.3.1.5 The facility must have separate dressing rooms for both home and visiting teams, with access to restroom and shower facilities. 14.3.1.6 The facility must have a separate dressing area for officials, with access to restroom and shower facilities as per Policy 27. 14.3.2 Basketball. 14.3.2.1 The facility must have a playing surface which is not fewer than 84 feet from end line to end line and not fewer than 50 feet from sideline to sideline. The court must be properly marked according to National Federation rules, including the proper markings for both teams’ coaching boxes. 14.3.2.2 The facility must have a minimum of three feet of unobstructed space from sidelines to seating, walls or other obstacles and a minimum of six feet of unobstructed space from end lines to seating, walls, or other obstacles. 14.3.2.3 It is recommended, but not required, that the facility have spectator seating on both sides of the court. In any case, however, the facility must meet the following minimum seating capacities: (a) Class 7A – 1,000 seats; (b) Class 6A – 900 seats; (c) Class 5A – 700 seats; (d) Class 4A – 700 seats; (e) Class 3A – 500 seats; (f) Class 2A – 300 seats; (g) Class 1A – 300 seats; (h) Rural – 300 seats. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 69 Revised February 20, 2025 P 15 FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES PASSES 14.3.3 Football. 14.3.3.1 The facility must have adequate artificial lighting to accommodate night games. 14.3.3.2 The facility should have a minimum of five yards of unobstructed space outside the playing field along each sideline and end line. 14.3.3.3 The facility must have restraining cables, fences, walls, etc., from goal line to goal line to separate spectators from each team box along the sideline. 14.3.3.4 The facility must have bleachers having masonry or metal understructure with footboards and seating properly maintained for both visitor and home fans. 14.3.3.5 It is recommended, but not required, that the facility have equal or near equal spectators on both sides of the field. In any case, however, the facility must meet the following minimum capacities: (a) Class 7A - 2,500; (b) Class 6A - 2,000; (c) Class 5A - 1,500; (d) Class 4A - 1,000; (e) Class 3A - 1,000; (f) Class 2A - 750; (g) Class 1A - 500; (h) Rural - 500. 14.3.4 Girls Volleyball. 14.3.4.1 The facility must have a minimum seating capacity of 300 seats. 14.3.5 Inadequate Facilities. In the event a facility does not meet the minimum specifications, the host and visiting school must work together to find a solution. If greater seating is being requested, the requesting team must prove the need using ticket manifests from games during the regular season. 14.4 Penalties Assessed to Schools. 14.4.1 If a school fails to adhere to any of the requirements in Policy 14, the school may lose the ability to host state series contest(s) in that sport. POLICY 15 FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES PASSES 15.1 Florida High School State Championship Series Pass. Florida High School State Championship Series passes may be used at district, regional and state Florida High School State Championship Series events. Each full member school is eligible to receive two complimentary passes each school year for use by the principal and the FHSAA representative or athletic director, issued in their names. Each member school has the option to purchase additional as follows: 15.1.1 Individual passes purchased – must be issued in the name of a specific individuals. 15.1.2 Passes may be issued in the school’s name (generic) with all the other passes issued in the names of specific individuals; for every four (4) passes purchased, one (1) generic pass may be purchased, with a limit of five (5) generic passes per school. 15.1.2.1 A lost, or stolen Florida High School State Championship Series pass issued as a school pass (generic) will not be reissued. 15.1.3 Each individual who registers as a contest official with the FHSAA also shall be permitted at the time of his/her registration to purchase one Florida High School State Championship Series pass. 15.1.4 The following restrictions shall apply to all Florida High School State Championship Series passes regardless of whether they are issued in the names of specific individuals or in the names of schools (generic): 15.1.4.1 The principal is responsible for the generic passes. The person bearing the generic pass is considered a representative of the school’s athletic interest. 15.1.4.2 All pass users shall be 18 years of age or older. 15.1.4.3 Passes are not intended for use by students and must not be issued to students. 15.1.4.4 Each pass will admit only the bearer. Spouses, children and other family members or friends accompanying the bearer of the pass must purchase a ticket of admission to the event. 70 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 15.1.4.5 The bearer of the pass must present a valid government-issued photo ID (i.e., driver’s license) along with the pass to the pass gate attendant. If the bearer is unable to present a valid photo ID at the pass gate, the pass shall not be honored. 15.1.4.6 The bearer of the pass may be required by the Host Site to sign a pass gate log to record his/her name, school name and position with member school, type of pass and Florida High School State Championship Series pass number. 15.1.4.7 If the manager of a Florida High School State Championship Series event determines the event is sold out, Florida High School State Championship Series passes cannot be honored at that event. 15.1.4.8 Exceptions to this policy must be approved in advance by the Executive Director. 15.1.4.9 Improperly used passes will be confiscated by the event manager and returned to the FHSAA. Once confiscated, the pass or passes will not be valid for the remainder of the school year. A minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions will be assessed for misuse and offending schools may be restricted from purchasing passes in future years. 15.1.4.10 The Florida High School State Championship Series pass only allows admittance into the contest. It does not grant access to the field, court, or pool deck. 15.2 FHSAA Lifetime Pass. FHSAA Lifetime Passes (either the previous white paper or the current gold plastic cards) are issued by the Executive Director to individuals who serve the Association as members of its Board of Directors; office staff upon their retirement; and inductees into its Hall of Fame. This pass will provide the bearer and one (1) guest with complimentary general admission to preseason and regular season events at the discretion of the host school, and to all Florida High School State Championship Series events. The FHSAA Lifetime Pass only allows admittance into the contest. It does not grant access to the field, court, or pool deck. The bearer will be required to show a picture I.D. with the Lifetime Pass and may be required to provide a signature on a pass gate log. POLICY 16 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

16.1.1 Middle School GPA Calculation. For grades 6 through 8, the semester GPA will be calculated on the first day of each semester by taking the sum of quality points earned (as per Bylaw 9.4.2) divided by the number of credits attempted during that semester. 16.1.2 High School GPA Calculation. For grades 9 through 12, the unweighted cumulative GPA will be calculated on the first day of each semester, including high school level grades earned while in grades 6 – 8 and summer school or its equivalent, if applicable, by taking the sum of all quality points earned (as per Bylaw 9.4.2) divided by the number of all credits attempted since the student began taking senior high school level courses and adjusting for forgiveness grades as per Bylaw 9.4.3.1. All such high school courses attempted at all schools attended by the student, including out-of-state and/or out-of-country schools, must be included in the unweighted cumulative GPA calculation. 16.1.2.1 Exception. Senior high school level courses taken prior to the initial first semester of 9th grade will not be calculated in the unweighted cumulative GPA until the first day of the second semester of 9th grade. 16.1.2.2 End of Course Exams. Grades earned in courses in which an “End of Course Exam” is administered must be included in the unweighted cumulative GPA. On the first day of the second semester, schools must include the grade the student earned in all “End of Course Exam” courses up to that point; this might necessitate a hand calculation of the GPA for student athletes if the course has not been concluded by the first day of the second semester. Upon conclusion of the course, schools must include the final grade the student would have earned in all “End of Course Exam” courses, including the percentage of the grade from the “End of Course Exam” as mandated by state statute. A Student whose unweighted cumulative GPA falls below the minimum 2.0 due to the final results of “End of Course Exam” courses will not subject the school to penalties due to that student’s participation in contests during the previous semester(s) regarding academic requirement. 16.1.3 Rounding off GPA. No rounding of calculated values will be used in determining the GPA. 16.1.4 Academic Records. A student must provide the school with all information the school needs to determine the student’s eligibility using the scale in Bylaw 9.4.2. The student cannot be declared academically eligible by the member school until all such information is received to its satisfaction. Final grades previously earned by the student shall not be converted using the scale in Bylaw 9.4.2.

16.9.1 Use of Online Electronic Forms. Member schools may opt to use an online format for the EL2 (Pre-Participation Physical Examination) and EL3 (Consent and Release from Liability Certificate) to obtain digital signatures. The information contained on the online versions of the EL2 and EL3 must contain all the exact wording of the form versions of the EL2 and EL3. P 16 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA 74 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 16.10 Use of Ineligible Students. The intentional or inadvertent use of ineligible students is strictly prohibited by this association and should be reported immediately upon discovery. 16.10.1 Ineligible Student Defined. An ineligible student is one who has been found to have violated one or more the bylaws or policies of this association. 16.10.2 Penalties for Use of Ineligible Students. Schools found to have used ineligible students could be subject to one or more of, but not limited to, the following: (a) Forfeiture of contests (b) Forfeiture of playoff advancement (c) Monetary penalties (d) Reprimand (e) Probation; administrative, restrictive or suspension (f) Expulsion or restricted membership 16.11 Penalties Assessed to Schools. 16.11.1 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL2 form (Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation, see Bylaw 9.7) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 16.11.2 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL3 form (Consent and Release from Liability Certificate, see Bylaw 9.8) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 16.11.3 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed GA4 form (Affidavit of Compliance with the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting and Non-Traditional Student Participation) may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per student and/or other sanctions. 16.11.4 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without properly registering a non-traditional student (see Policy 16.7.3) may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum $100 per student and/or other sanctions. 16.11.5 Use of an ineligible student when not self-reported, may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $2,500 per contest and/or other sanctions. 16.11.6 Use of an ineligible student when self-reported, may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per contest and/or other sanctions. POLICY 17 ELIGIBILITY OF YOUTH EXCHANGE PROGRAM, INTERNATIONAL AND IMMIGRANT STUDENTS The FHSAA acknowledges the importance of permitting foreign-born and U.S. students to experience the benefits of participation in interscholastic athletics. The following policy and procedures shall govern the eligibility of foreign-born students who attend member schools and U.S. students wishing to study abroad. 17.1 Students in Youth Exchange Programs (F-1 and J-1 U.S. Visas) Youth exchange program participants, like all non-immigrant visitors to the United States, are subject to U.S. immigration laws. Educational institutions, including high schools, are subject to immigration regulations with regard to non-immigrant students who visit the United States as F-1 academic students and J-1 exchange visitors. The FHSAA will adhere to the standards adopted by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel (CSIET) and will permit a youth exchange student to participate in interscholastic athletic competition under the following conditions: 17.1.1 U.S. Nonimmigrant Registration. Youth exchange students must be registered through one of the following: 17.1.1.1 The F-1 youth exchange student must have a “Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status- For Academic and Language Students” (Form I-20A-B) for the high school at which the student is receiving instruction as required by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. 17.1.1.2 The J-1 youth exchange student must have a “Certificate of Eligibility for Exchange Visitor (J-1) Status” (Form DS-2019) and be sponsored and placed with a U.S. host family by a “bona fide” international student exchange program that has been accepted for listing by CSIET and recognized by the U.S. Department of State. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 75 Revised February 20, 2025 P 17 ELIGIBILITY OF YOUTH EXCHANGE, INTERNATIONAL & IMMIGRANT

17.3.1 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL2 form (Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation, see Bylaw 9.7) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 17.3.2 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL3 form (Consent and Release from Liability Certificate, see Bylaw 9.8) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 17.3.3 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed GA4 form (Affidavit of Compliance with the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting and Non-Traditional Student Participation) may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per student and/or other sanctions. 17.3.4 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed and approved EL4 form (Registration of Youth Exchange, Other International or Immigrant Student, see Policy 17) may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per student and/or other sanctions. 17.4 U.S. Students Studying Abroad While the FHSAA acknowledges the benefits of U.S. students studying abroad as youth exchange program students, a student who studies abroad will do so at his/her own jeopardy in relation to the association’s limit of eligibility bylaw (Bylaw 9.5.1) and the student will not gain an additional year of eligibility. P 17 ELIGIBILITY OF YOUTH EXCHANGE, INTERNATIONAL, IMMIGRANT STUDENTS 78 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 18 PRACTICES AND SCRIMMAGES

18.4.1 Bona Fide Students Only. Only those student-athletes who are attending a member school or who are non-traditional students, as per Bylaw 9.2.2 and Policy 16.6, registered with a member school, may participate in the scrimmage of an athletic team which represents that member school. 18.4.2 Non-School Groups Prohibited. Scrimmages and scrimmage games involving groups, alumni teams, league teams, etc., comprised in whole or in part of individuals who are not bona fide students of the member school are prohibited. Such scrimmages and scrimmage games may be on an intra-squad basis only. 18.4.3 Violation of this policy could result in a monetary penalty of a minimum of $250 per occurrence and/or other sanctions. POLICY 19 REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY AND OTHER ADVISORY COMMITTEES

19.1.1 Composition. The Representative Assembly is composed of the following delegates (§ 1006.20(5)(b), F.S.): (a) An equal number of FHSAA Representatives from each of the four administrative sections, representing traditional public schools, private schools, middle schools, charter schools and home education cooperatives; (b) Four district school superintendents elected by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents – one from each administrative section; (c) Four district school board members elected by the Florida School Boards Association – one from each administrative section; and (d) The Commissioner of Education or his/her designee from the Department of Education executive staff. 19.1.1.1 Delegate Restrictions. No member of the Board of Directors other than the Commissioner of Education or his/her designee can serve as a delegate to the Representative Assembly. 19.1.1.2 Quorum. A quorum of the Representative Assembly consists of one more than half of its member delegates. 19.1.1.3 Passage. A two-thirds majority of votes cast by delegates present and voting is required to pass any proposed amendment. 19.1.2 Duties and Responsibilities. The Representative Assembly’s only duty and responsibility is to act on proposed amendments to the bylaws of the Association that are submitted for its consideration. The assembly cannot propose any amendment for its own consideration. 19.1.2.1 Meetings. The Representative Assembly meets one time each school year. The Board of Directors sets the date and place of each meeting. The president of the Board of Directors can call additional meetings if needed. 19.1.3 Selection/Term of Service. 19.1.3.1 Selection. Each constituent group selects its delegates to the Representative Assembly. The FHSAA Representatives delegates from each administrative section or legislative division, if applicable, are elected by a majority of votes cast by all school representatives within the administrative section or legislative division. P 19 REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY AND OTHER ADVISORY COMMITTEES 80 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 19.1.3.2 Term of Service. The term of service for a Representative Assembly delegate is two school years. A delegate may be reelected or re-appointed to two additional two-year terms but cannot serve more than a maximum of six consecutive school years. These term limits, however, do not apply to the Commissioner of Education or his/her designee. 19.1.4 Officers. The officers of the Representative Assembly are a chairperson and a vice chairperson. The assembly elects both from among its members at the beginning of its meeting. Both may be reelected to their offices at consecutive meetings if they continue to serve as delegates to the assembly. 19.1.4.1 Chairperson. The chairperson presides over the meeting of the Representative Assembly at which he/she is elected. 19.1.4.2 Vice Chairperson. The vice chairperson performs the duties of the chairperson if he/she is absent or unable to act. 19.2 Advisory Committees. The Board of Directors has established a number of advisory committees comprised of individuals – experts in their field – who work with the various programs of the Association. These advisory committees shall operate according to the following guidelines:

19.3.1 An advisory committee exists solely for the purpose of evaluating the FHSAA program(s) with which it is charged. In achieving its purpose, the committee shall review FHSAA regulations which govern the program(s); offer to the Board of Directors recommendations for change to such regulations as it deems appropriate; and offer advice and guidance to the Board of Directors and staff. 19.3.2 An advisory committee shall have no direct authority to establish guidelines, regulations, policies, or procedures; and its decisions and recommendations shall not be final unless adopted by the Board of Directors in general session. 19.3.3 An item must pass an advisory committee by simple majority vote to be referred to the Board of Directors. A tie vote among voting members on any item shall defeat the item. 19.3.4 An item first passed by an advisory committee shall be publicized for one year until the next regularly scheduled meeting of that advisory committee in the following school year. At this meeting, the advisory committee will reconsider the item for second passage. Upon second passage, the item will be placed on the agenda for the next meeting of the Board of Directors. The Executive Director, however, may authorize that a recommendation be fast-tracked through the process if he/she determines the recommendation to be essential to the betterment of the program. Any item not passed may not be re-introduced for a minimum of two calendar years. 19.3.5 Vacancies. If, for any reason, a vacancy should occur in any seat with an unexpired term on an advisory committee the Executive Director or his/her designee shall appoint a qualified individual from the represented group to fill the vacant seat for the duration of the unexpired term. In such cases, the individual appointed to complete a term for someone else may succeed themselves one time. 19.3.6 An advisory committee may introduce a proposed amendment to the FHSAA Bylaws for consideration. 19.3.7 No member of the Board of Directors can serve on an advisory committee. 19.3.8 An individual can serve on only one advisory committee. 19.3.9 All advisory committee members, and chaperone for student-athlete members, will be reimbursed for travel following the State of Florida Employee travel regulations and rates. 19.3.10 Committee Chairperson. Each committee shall elect a chairperson and vice chairperson from among its members. The chairperson will serve as chair of the committee for one year. The vice chairperson will act in the absence of the chairperson and will immediately succeed the chairperson upon the completion of his/her term as chairperson. The vice chairperson must have no fewer than two years remaining in his/her current term in order to serve as the vice chairperson. After the initial election of a chairperson and vice chairperson of a committee, the last order of business of the committee for that year shall be the election of the vice chairperson for the subsequent year.

19.7.1 Charge. There will be a Student-Athlete Advisory Committee to provide a voice in the FHSAA governance structure to the Association’s largest constituency – the more than 200,000 participating student-athletes. The committee will focus on the following areas: current issues facing student-athletes, input regarding rules and regulations, input on FHSAA special initiatives (e.g., sportsmanship program), and promoting a positive image of the student-athlete. P 19 REPRESENTATIVE ASSEMBLY AND OTHER ADVISORY COMMITTEES 82 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 19.7.2 Composition. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will be comprised of 16 members: four student-athletes from each of the four (4) administrative sections. 19.7.3 Nominations. Each member school shall be allowed to nominate one (1) male and one (1) female student-athlete for consideration. To be eligible for nomination, the student-athlete must meet the following requirements: 19.7.3.1 Must be an active student-athlete participating in at least one (1) FHSAA- sponsored sport at his/her school; 19.7.3.2 Must be a sophomore (rising junior) or junior (rising senior) in good academic and disciplinary standing; 19.7.3.3 Must show commitment toward representing the interests of all student-athletes; 19.7.3.4 Must display strong character and commitment to sportsmanship and integrity; and 19.7.3.5 Must demonstrate leadership in his/her school. 19.7.3.6 Juniors may serve a second year on the committee if they continue to meet the requirements above. 19.7.4 Selection. Committee members will be selected by the FHSAA staff. The selection process will take into consideration sex , racial and sport diversity to ensure a well-rounded committee. 19.7.5 Meetings. The Student-Athlete Advisory Committee will meet, at a minimum, once annually. 19.7.6 Quorum. Eight (8) of the voting members of the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee shall constitute a quorum.

19.9.1 Composition. Pursuant to § 1006.20(6), F.S., the Association shall establish, sustain, fund, and provide staff support to a Public Liaison Advisory Committee appointed annually by the Executive Director and composed of the following: • The Commissioner of Education or his or her designee; • A member public school principal; • A member non-public school principal; • A member school principal who is a member of a racial minority; • An active athletic director; • An active coach, who is employed full time by a member school; • A student athlete; • A district school superintendent; • A district school board member; • A member of the Florida House of Representatives; • A member of the Florida Senate; • A parent of a high school student; • A member of a home education association; • A representative of the business community; and • A representative of the news media. 19.9.2 Restrictions. No member of the Board of Directors, a Sectional Appeals Committee or the Representative Assembly is eligible to serve on the Public Liaison Advisory Committee. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 83 Revised February 20, 2025 19.9.3 Authority and Duties. The authority and duties of the Public Liaison Advisory Committee are as follows: 19.9.3.1 To act as a conduit through which the general public may have input into the decision-making process of the Association and to assist the Association in the development of procedures regarding the receipt of public input and disposition of complaints related to high school athletic and competition programs. 19.9.3.2 To conduct public hearings annually in each of the four (4) administrative sections during which interested parties may address issues regarding the effectiveness of the rules, operation, and management of the organization. 19.9.3.3 To conduct an annual evaluation of its findings, organization as a whole and recommendations to the Board of Directors, to the Commissioner of Education, and to the respective education committees of the Florida Senate and Florida House of Representatives. The recommendations must delineate policies and procedures that will improve the implementation and oversight of high school athletic programs by the organization. 19.9.4 Meetings. The Public Liaison Advisory Committee shall meet, at a minimum. four (4) times annually. Additional meetings may be called by the committee chairperson, the Association president, or the Executive Director. 19.9.5 Quorum. Eight (8) of the members of the Public Liaison Advisory Committee in attendance shall constitute a quorum.

Interscholastic athletic programs must encourage good character, enhance the integrity of education, and promote civility in society. Student-athletes, coaches and all others associated with interscholastic athletic programs, as well as those who attend interscholastic athletic events, should adhere to the fundamental values of honesty, integrity, respect, caring, cooperation, trustworthiness, leadership, tolerance, and personal responsibility. Each school is responsible for: (a) Establishing policies for sportsmanship and ethical conduct in its interscholastic athletic programs that are consistent with the educational mission and goals of the school; and (b) Educating, on an ongoing basis, all individuals associated with the school’s interscholastic athletic programs and events about those policies.

2.4.1 Member Schools. Each school must control its interscholastic athletic programs by FHSAA rules and regulations. The principal, who is responsible for the administration of all aspects of the school’s interscholastic athletic programs, is responsible for ensuring this control, which extends to and includes responsibility for and control over the actions of: (a) The administration and faculty; (b) The athletic department staff and student-athletes; (c) The student body, parents, and other spectators at athletic events; and (d) Any other individual or group engaged in activities representing, supporting, or promoting the athletic interests of the school. 2.4.2 District, Charter, and Private School Boards. District, charter, and private school boards must establish, through their code of student conduct, student eligibility standards and related student disciplinary actions regarding student participation in interscholastic and intrascholastic extracurricular activities ( § 1006.195,(1)(a), F.S.) . The code of student conduct must provide that: (a) A student not currently suspended from interscholastic or intrascholastic extracurricular activities, or suspended or expelled from school, pursuant to a district school board’s suspension or expulsion powers provided in law, including § 1006.07, § 1006.08, and § 1006.09, F.S., is eligible to participate in interscholastic and intrascholastic extracurricular activities. (b) A student may not participate in a sport if the student participated in that same sport at another school during that school year, unless the student meets the criteria in § 1006.15(3)(h), F.S. (c) A student’s eligibility to participate in any interscholastic or intrascholastic extracurricular activity may not be affected by any alleged recruiting violation until final disposition of the allegation pursuant to § 1006.20(2)(b), F.S.. 2.4.3 Non-Traditional Students. Students who participate in interscholastic and intrascholastic extracurricular activities for, but are not enrolled in, a public school pursuant to § 1006.15(3)(c)-(e) and (8) , F.S. (i.e. non-traditional students, reference Bylaw 1.4.31), are subject to the district, charter or private school board’s code of student conduct for the limited purpose of establishing and maintaining the student’s eligibility to participate at the school. 2.4.4 Controlled Open Enrollment and Choice Programs. A school district or charter school may not delay eligibility or otherwise prevent a student participating in controlled open enrollment or a choice program from being immediately eligible to participate in interscholastic activities ( § 1002.31(6), F.S.) .

The FHSAA will promote an atmosphere of respect for and sensitivity to the dignity of every person. The Association will not discriminate in its governance policies, programs and employment practices on the basis of age, color, disability, sex , national origin, race, religion, creed, or educational choice. Each school is responsible to determine independently its own policies regarding nondiscrimination.

20.1.1 Not Regulated in Summer. The FHSAA does not regulate the athletic activities of member schools held with their own students during the summer as defined herein with the exception of football. The individual member school principal, district school superintendent, district school board, charter or private school governing board are responsible for adopting regulations governing the activities of their respective schools during this period of time. All member schools are required to follow policies 40, 41, 42 and 43 during the summer (§ 1006.165, F.S.). 20.1.2 Football. A member school shall not permit student-athletes in its football program to wear helmets or pads or engage in physical contact in any activity sponsored by or under the supervision of the school during the summer. This shall not preclude the school from issuing school-owned equipment to a student-athlete for his/her use at a summer football camp, provided the camp is organized, operated, and conducted by a third-party entity, such as but not limited to, American Youth Football, AAU Football, USA Football, colleges and universities, etc., and is not affiliated with a member school, such as but not limited to, booster clubs, affiliated church organizations, etc. FHSAA member school coaches, paid or otherwise, may not be involved in the organization, supervision, or coordination of camps that involve students from FHSAA member schools. Camps hosted by a third party, which allow the use of helmets or pads or engage in physical contact, may not be held at a member school’s facility. 20.1.2.1 Exception. A member school may attend one padded contact camp, hosted by a third-party, during the summer, provided: (a) The camp involves a minimum of four (4) participating schools, whether hosted on a member school’s campus or at a third-party site; (b) The camp is a maximum of three (3) consecutive days; (c) The only form of full contact used throughout the camp is THUD (Administrative Procedure 4.7.3.1(c)); (d) Equipment used throughout the camp is limited to SHELLS (Administrative Procedure 4.7.3.1(f)); (e) A Certified Athletic Trainer must be present to ensure Policies 40, 41, 42, and 43 are followed; (f) All students must have participated in acclimatization practices listed in Policy 41.5.7 for five (5) days immediately preceding the camp; (g) The member school must submit their team camp application to the FHSAA Office prior to the start of summer as defined in Policy 20.2. Each student must have valid and active insurance that covers summer activities approved by the school district or governing body. P 20 SUMMER ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION 84 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 20.2 Summer Defined. The summer season is defined as that period of time outside the FHSAA sports year. This period for each member school is defined as beginning the day following the school’s last day of classes for the spring semester or the day following the school’s last day of spring athletic activities (including spring football practice), whichever is later, or June 1 for schools whose last day of classes for the spring semester occurs on May 31 or thereafter, and concluding with the Saturday prior to fall sports beginning, as established in the FHSAA Planning Calendar. POLICY 21 OFF-SEASON CONDITIONING 21.1 Definitions. 21.1.1 Off-season. “Off-season” means the period of time during the regular school year but outside the defined sport season for a specific sport. 21.1.2 Sports Season. “Sports season” means the period of time for a specific school team in each respective sport that begins with the first permissible date of practice in that sport and ends either with: 21.1.2.1 the last permissible date for a regular season contest (if not participating in Florida High School State Championship Series competition) in that sport; or 21.1.2.2 the date of the team’s elimination from Florida High School State Championship Series competition in that sport; or 21.1.2.3 the state championship game in that sport, whichever first occurs for that team. 21.1.3 Conditioning. Weight training is the use of free weights and stationary apparatus. Cardiovascular conditioning is distance and interval training. Plyometrics is the use of pre-set conditioning programs. Conditioning IS NOT teaching sport specific skills and drills and DOES NOT involve the use of sport specific equipment (i.e., starting blocks, hurdles, rebounders, ball machines, bats, balls, rackets, etc.). 21.1.3.1 Exception: “Arm Care Conditioning”. Student-athletes wishing to try out for the sports of Baseball or Softball may participate in “Arm Care Conditioning” beginning on the first Monday of January. “Arm Care Conditioning” includes the use of a glove and a baseball/softball under the supervision of a coach. To ensure the safety of all participants, “Arm Care Conditioning” applies to all players including bullpens. 21.2 Off-season conditioning programs conducted by a school shall only be open to participation by all students attending that school or non-traditional students who have registered with that school as per Administrative Procedure 1.2. 21.3 Off-season conditioning program participants shall file with the school the “FHSAA Consent and Release of Liability Certificate” and the “FHSAA Pre-participation Physical Evaluation” form. 21.4 Participation shall be voluntary and shall not be required, either directly or indirectly, for membership on an interscholastic team. 21.5 Supervision by school personnel is required. 21.6 Schools shall provide information in the following areas: 21.6.1 Proper use of weight room equipment; 21.6.2 Proper weight training techniques; 21.6.3 Proper nutrition; 21.6.4 Proper cardiovascular conditioning techniques; 21.6.5 Ergogenics.

21.8.1 Schools shall review Policy 42 with school-based personnel operating off-season conditioning. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 85 Revised February 20, 2025 21.9 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following as per Policy 46: 21.9.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $2,500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 21.9.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 21.9.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 21.9.4 Reduced number of regular season “home” contests. 21.9.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. POLICY 22 NON-SCHOOL TEAM AND/OR OFF-SEASON PARTICIPATION 22.1 Definitions. 22.1.1 Off-Season. “Off-season” means the period of time during the regular school year but outside the defined sport season for a specific sport. 22.1.2 Sports Season. “Sports season” means the period of time for a specific school team in each respective sport that begins with the first permissible date of practice in that sport and ends either with: 22.1.2.1 the last permissible date for a regular season contest (if not participating in Florida High School State Championship Series competition) in that sport; or 22.1.2.2 the date of the team’s elimination from Florida High School State Championship Series competition in that sport; or 22.1.2.3 the state championship game in that sport, whichever first occurs for that team. 22.1.3 Coach. “Coach” means any person, regardless of whether he/she is employed by the school or volunteer, who instructs, supervises, or otherwise manages student-athletes in conjunction with a practice, tryout, drill, workout, evaluation, or competitive activity. 22.1.4 “Involved in Any Respect.” “Involved in any respect” means engaged in anything to do with a non-school team, including but not limited to coaching, scheduling, transporting, officiating and the hiring of officials, training, taping, managing team expenses, purchasing of uniforms and equipment, etc. 22.2 During the off-season, a coach shall not have contact with students outside the normal teacher-student classroom environment except to: 22.2.1 make arrangements for and assist in the conduct of physical examinations; or 22.2.2 explain eligibility regulations; or 22.2.3 solve insurance problems; or 22.2.4 review films; or 22.2.5 conduct off-season conditioning as defined in “Off-Season Conditioning” as per Policy 21. 22.3 A coach, prospective coach of any member school or any individual involved in any respect may not be involved with a non-school team in a sport unless the non-school team meets the following requirements: 22.3.1 The team must be affiliated with an outside agency promoting athletic participation opportunities such as, but not limited to: • Baseball – Babe Ruth, American Legion, city/county leagues • Basketball – AAU, USA, USOC • Football –USA Football • Golf – USGA, AJGA • Lacrosse – US Lacrosse • Soccer – FIFA, Youth leagues • Softball – ASA, USSSA • Swimming & Diving – USS, NISCA, ASCA, CSCAA, AAU • Tennis – FTA, USTA, USOC, ITF • Track & Field – USA, AAU • Volleyball – USVBA, USOC, USA, AVA • Wrestling – USA, AAU P 22 NON-SCHOOL TEAM AND/OR OFF-SEASON PARTICIPATION 86 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 22.3.2 Participation must include competition in the published scheduled events of the outside agency. 22.3.3 Student athletes and coaches, where applicable, are not permitted to wear any portion of a school’s athletic uniform. 22.3.3.1 The non-school team uniform may not include the official mascot or logo of the school to which a coach involved in any respect is affiliated. 22.3.4 All fees or assessments, collected or paid for participation must be made to or from the outside agency. 22.3.5 Participation shall be voluntary and shall not be required, either directly or indirectly, for membership on an interscholastic team. 22.3.6 Member schools may make their gymnasiums and other athletic facilities available to outside groups or organizations provided a fully executed usage agreement is provided and available upon request. 22.3.7 Any presentation, promotion, or advertisement shall not be posted and/or shared by a school-based team social media account. 22.4 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following as per Policy 46: 22.4.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $2,500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 22.4.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 22.4.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 22.4.4 Reduced number of regular season home contests. 22.4.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. POLICY 23 OPEN FACILITIES PROGRAM 23.1 During the school year, member schools may open their gymnasiums and other athletic facilities only to their students without being in violation of FHSAA Bylaws under the following guidelines: 23.1.1 The facility must be open to all students who are bona fide students in that school as defined in Bylaw 9.2.1 or non-traditional students who have registered intent with that school as per Administrative Procedure 1.2. Opening facilities to a select group of students to practice individual skills for a specific sport is a violation of this policy. 23.1.2 A student may participate in open facility activities only in the school in which he/she is a bona fide student as defined in Bylaw 9.2.1 or non-traditional students who have registered intent with that school as per Administrative Procedure 1.2. 23.1.3 Supervision by school personnel is required. School personnel, including faculty and non-faculty coaches in attendance, however, shall not provide coaching or instruction in the skills and techniques in any sport. Their presence may be in a supervisory capacity only. 23.1.4 Participation shall be voluntary and shall not be required, either directly or indirectly, for membership on an interscholastic team. 23.1.5 No sport-specific tasks or drills shall be taught or assigned to students to perform during open facility activities. 23.1.6 Open facility activities in a specific sport (with the exception of the fall sports) shall be concluded a minimum of two weeks prior to the first permissible date of interscholastic practice in that sport. 23.2 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following as per Policy 46: 23.2.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $2,500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 23.2.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 23.2.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 23.2.4 Reduced number of regular season “home” contests. 23.2.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 87 Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 24 COACHING SCHOOLS, CAMPS, CLINICS, COMBINES OR WORKSHOPS BY MEMBER SCHOOLS Member schools, coaches or other athletic department employees of member schools, and individuals, groups or organizations related to or affiliated with member schools may conduct coaching schools, camps, clinics, combines, or workshops provided: 24.1 The event is conducted only during the summer as defined in the “Policy on Summer Athletic Participation” or as a fund raiser for the school or school programs during the school year provided: (a) An appropriate properly executed facility usage agreement is provided and made available upon request; and (b) All fees or assessments, collected or paid must be documented and be made to or from the school’s internal accounts; and (c) Member schools are subject to the provisions in Policy 37.2. 24.1.1 Exception. Coaches may participate in camps, clinics, workshops provided the following criteria are met: 24.1.1.1 The event is hosted by a third party (not-for-profit organization), of which the coach is not an organizer, supervisor, owner, etc.; and 24.1.1.2 The coach participates in an instructional capacity only; and 24.1.1.3 The coach does not wear any school paraphernalia which identifies the school with which the coach is affiliated; and 24.1.1.4 The coach and student are subject to the provisions of Policy 36; and 24.1.1.5 The event is not held on the coach’s school campus. 24.1.2 Exception. Representatives of member schools’ athletic interests may provide personal instruction provided: 24.1.2.1 The individual providing instruction owns or is employed by a company which provides instruction of athletic skills; and 24.1.2.1.1 Instruction provided to students who attend the school with which the representative of the school’s athletic interests is affiliated may not exceed more than two students during the time of instruction if the instruction takes place on that school’s campus. 24.1.2.2 The company which the individual owns or is employed by is a licensed business, containing a current tax identification number; and 24.1.2.3 Properly executed facility usage agreement, if instruction is provided on a member school’s campus, is provided, and made available upon request; and 24.1.2.4 All fees or assessment for participation must be documented; and 24.1.2.5 Participation shall be voluntary and shall not be required, either directly or indirectly, for membership on an interscholastic team; and 24.1.2.6 The representative of the school’s athletic interests is subject to the provisions of Policy 36. 24.2 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following as per Policy 46: 24.2.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $2,500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 24.2.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 24.2.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 24.2.4 Reduced number of regular season home contests. 24.2.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. POLICY 25 PARTICIPATION BY STUDENT-ATHLETES AND TEAMS IN COACHING SCHOOLS, CAMPS, CLINICS, COMBINES OR WORKSHOPS The following policy govern participation of students of FHSAA member schools in coaching schools, camps, clinics, combines or workshops for an interscholastic sport. 25.1 Individuals. Students from FHSAA member schools may participate as individuals in coaching schools, camps, clinics, combines or workshops at any time of the school year without jeopardizing their interscholastic athletic eligibility, provided: 25.1.1 Students participating in the event do not, in any way, represent their school. P 24 25 EVENTS HOSTED BY MEMBER SCHOOL PARTICIPATION IN EVENTS 88 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 25.1.2 Fees for the students who participate in the event are not paid by the school, coach, or school district. 25.1.3 Students provide their own transportation or are provided transportation by their own school. No student may be transported to or from the event by an employee, athletic department staff member or representative of the athletic interests of any school other than the school that the student currently attends. 25.2 Teams. FHSAA member schools may permit their athletic teams to participate in coaching schools, camps, clinics, combines or workshops without jeopardizing their interscholastic athletic eligibility, provided: 25.2.1 The coaching school, camp, clinic, combine, or workshop takes place only during the summer as defined in the “Policy on Summer Athletic Participation.” Participation by school teams in coaching schools, camps, clinics, or workshops held during the school year is strictly prohibited. 25.2.2 Fees for the students or team who participate in the event are not paid by the school, coach, or school district; however, internal account funds generated from fund-raising activities may be used. 25.2.3 Participation in the event by students is not an actual or implied prerequisite to their membership on the team. 25.3 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following as per Policy 46: 25.3.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $2,500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 25.3.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 25.3.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 25.3.4 Reduced number of regular season “home” contests. 25.3.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. POLICY 26 PARTICIPATION BY STUDENT-ATHLETES IN ALL-STAR GAMES AND SHOWCASES The FHSAA recognizes Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) sponsored All-Star Classics. The FACA meets the provisions of this policy which govern student participation in its All-Star classics. The following policy governs participation by students of FHSAA member schools in any all-star games or showcases for an interscholastic sport: 26.1 All-Star Teams. An all-star team is a team comprised of athletes who are selected as team members or invited to participate in a tryout for membership on the team as the result of the athletes’ performance. No student at a member school shall participate on a high school all-star team in a sport as a result of his/her performance in interscholastic athletics until the student completes his/her interscholastic athletic eligibility in that sport. 26.1.1 All-Star Games. Students from FHSAA member schools may participate as individuals in all-star games without jeopardizing their interscholastic athletic eligibility, provided: 26.1.1.1 The all-star game, or tryouts or practices for the all-star game, may not be conducted during the regular season in the sport in which the all-star game is to be conducted; and 26.1.1.1.1 Exception. An all-star game shall not be played on any date on which an FHSAA State Championship Series contest in that sport is scheduled. 26.1.1.2 The student-athlete has exhausted his/her eligibility in the sport in which the all-star contest is to be conducted; and 26.1.1.2.1 Exception. This does not apply if the contest is held out-side of the state of Florida. 26.1.1.3 Fees for the student-athlete who participates in the all-star contest are not paid by the school, coach, or school district; however, internal account funds generated from fund-raising activities may be used. 26.1.2 Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the loss of the student’s eligibility to represent any FHSAA member school in that sport for a period of one calendar year from the date of participation in the contest. 26.2 Showcases . Showcases are events comprised of athletes who are selected or invited to participate as a result of the athletes’ performance as an athlete and must be compliant with Policy 24 and Policy 25. Any student athlete who participates in, but not limited to, combines and showcases do so at his/her own peril as it relates to Policy 36. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 89 Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 27 SCHOOLS’ RESPONSIBILITIES TO FHSAA OFFICIALS Member schools have the following responsibilities relative to FHSAA officials when serving as host for an athletic contest to which the officials are assigned: 27.1 An authorized representative of the host school shall greet the officials upon their arrival. 27.2 The host school should provide a private, secure place for the officials to park. 27.3 The host school should provide a secure dressing facility which affords privacy. 27.4 The host school should provide the officials access to private shower facilities with hot water whenever possible. 27.5 The host school should provide the officials with refreshments (i.e., water and/or sports drinks) during the halftime intermission, following the conclusion of the contest and other appropriate times. 27.6 The host school must provide pregame, halftime and postgame security for the officials. A school official or principal’s designee must escort the officials to and from the playing field or court to prevent harassment. 27.7 The host school principal, principal’s designee or game administrator must indicate to the referee or umpire-in-chief his/ her seat location should a situation develop where assistance is needed during the contest. The contest coaches should not serve as the principal’s designee or game administrator. 27.8 School personnel, including coaches, shall not enter the official’s dressing facility while the officials are in attendance except when requested by the officials. 27.9 The host school for Florida High School State Championship Series contests beyond the district level shall provide contest officials with a secure and adequate dressing room (one each for mixed sex crews) with properly operating bathroom facilities including showers with warm water at the site of the contest. If the site does not have such facilities, the host school shall obtain and provide at its expense an appropriate hotel/motel room(s) reasonably close to the site. The host school is required to complete dressing room arrangements and have the information available to the head referee at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time of the contest. It is the responsibility of the head referee or umpire-in-chief to contact the school administration at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time of the contest to verify the arrangements for the contest. The referee or umpire-in-chief shall report to the FHSAA Office the failure of any host school to provide dressing facilities as required. POLICY 28 RULES OF CONDUCT FOR FHSAA OFFICIALS A violation of any one of these provisions may subject an offending official to a monetary penalty, suspension as an official, or both. 28.1 All FHSAA officials shall conduct themselves on and off the athletic field in a manner conducive to the best interests of the FHSAA, its member schools, and the interscholastic athletic program in general. No FHSAA official shall pursue a course of action which is detrimental to the welfare of the FHSAA or its member schools. 28.2 All FHSAA officials shall comply with all FHSAA guidelines, regulations, policies, and procedures as contained in the FHSAA Officials Guidebook. 28.3 All FHSAA officials shall be neatly dressed in the appropriate uniform as prescribed in the Officials Guidebook, and project a physically fit appearance, when officiating a contest involving an FHSAA member school. P 27 28 RESPONSIBILITY TO OFFICIALS RULES OF CONDUCT FOR OFFICIALS 90 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 28.4 All FHSAA officials are expected to arrive on time for the contest as required by the rules of the applicable sport. 28.5 All FHSAA officials should be in good physical condition, mentally ready to work the best possible contest and be fully cognizant of the sport’s rules. Officials are expected to make each call as they see it without fear or favor, regardless of the score, and hustle at all times. 28.6 No FHSAA official should fraternize with athletes, coaches, or spectators before, during or after a contest. 28.7 No FHSAA official may officiate a contest involving a school where any of the following situations have occurred within the last four (4) years: 28.7.1 his/her child or an immediate relative attend or attended; 28.7.2 the official himself/herself and/or a relative works or worked; 28.7.3 the official attended, graduated or coached; 28.7.4 Exception. A waiver of Conflict of Interest may be provided in accordance with Bylaw 8.9.5 of the FHSAA Bylaws, which states, “Coaches or other persons connected with competing schools shall not officiate in contests except with the consent of all competing schools.” 28.8 No FHSAA official may officiate a varsity district contest in which the official currently serves as a coach at a school in that particular district. 28.9 No FHSAA official shall arrive or appear at the contest site under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs, or impaired by legal prescription drugs. 28.10 No FHSAA official shall use tobacco or tobacco-like products during the contest or in the vicinity of the athletic field. 28.11 No FHSAA official shall engage in unsportsmanlike conduct. 28.12 No FHSAA official shall officiate a contest or part of a contest which is classified as an exhibition or practice game between two or more member schools. Such games are prohibited by the FHSAA Bylaws. This provision, however, does not preclude an FHSAA official from officiating an intra-squad contest or scrimmage in which all participants are students at the same one school or an FHSAA approved officials’ training that may involve more than one school. 28.13 No FHSAA official shall publicly criticize or berate a coach or other employee of a member school. Professional ethics require that officials use proper channels to report their problems rather than airing them publicly. 28.14 All officials must immediately leave the visual confines of the contest at the conclusion of officiating duties, as required by the NFHS rules of the applicable sport. POLICY 29 CROWD CONTROL 29.1 Home/Host School. The home/host school administration is responsible for the control of spectators before, during and after an athletic contest. The FHSAA recommends that the home/host school administration secure uniformed security to assist with this responsibility. 29.2 Visiting School(s). The visiting school administration is encouraged to assist with the control of its own spectators at athletic contests. Visiting school administrators (i.e., principal, FHSAA representative, assistant principals, athletic director, assistant athletic director, assistant coaches, etc.) who are required by their principal to attend the event for supervisory purposes upon presentation of a photo I.D. must be provided complimentary admission to the event, provided the visiting school submits their names to the home/ host school administration in writing not less than 24 hours prior to the scheduled starting time of the event. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 91 Revised February 20, 2025 29.3 Florida High School State Championship Series. Participating school administration (i.e., principal, FHSAA representative, assistant principals, athletic director, assistant athletic director, assistant coaches, etc.) must be present at district, regional, and state events when their school is competing. Administration must enforce appropriate behavior of their student/adult fan base. 29.4 Officials. The officials assigned to officiate a contest are responsible for the on-the-court or on-the-field conduct of the contest itself. In the event a spectator or spectators interfere with the conduct of a contest or cause an official to become distracted through continual, unrelenting verbal abuse, the official should immediately stop the action and report the spectator or spectators to the home/host school administration or the nearest uniformed security officer. If the home/host school administration or uniformed security is unwilling or unable to resolve the situation and the official does not believe the contest can be safely continued, the official must declare the contest ended at that point. Under no circumstance should an official ever confront, challenge, rebuke or threaten a spectator, or make gestures of any kind toward a spectator before, during or after a contest. 29.5 Reports. Both the officials assigned to officiate a contest and the home/host school administration are required to file with the FHSAA Office within 24 hours a written report, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, on any contest that is terminated due to interference by a spectator(s). POLICY 30 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

3.10.1 Suspension. The FHSAA Office may suspend a member school that fails to meet one or more of the qualifications, conditions and/or obligations of membership until the deficiency is corrected. 3.10.1.1 Failure to Pay Dues and Fees. A member school that does not pay its dues and fees by the deadline set by the Board of Directors will be suspended from membership. The suspended school may be reinstated at any time prior to December 31 by paying its dues and fees, and an additional reactivation fee. Membership is terminated if the suspended school fails to pay in full its dues and fees by December 31. 3.10.1.2 Failure to Provide Proof of Insurance. A member that fails to provide the FHSAA Office with proof that it has the required insurance coverage will be suspended until the proof of insurance coverage is provided. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 13 Revised February 20, 2025 3.10.2 Expulsion. The Board of Directors may expel a member school that fails to meet one or more of the qualifications, conditions and/or obligations of membership, or fails to support and adhere to the purposes and policies of the Association. 3.10.2.1 Restricted Membership. The Board of Directors, instead of expulsion, may restrict one, more or all of the membership privileges of the school. The school remains a member even if all of its membership privileges are restricted. 3.10.3 Cessation of Privileges. All privileges of a member school will cease upon any termination of its membership.

3.2.1 Member School. A “member school” is a senior high school, middle/junior high school, combination school, a charter school, a virtual school, or home education cooperative that is provisionally admitted or duly elected to membership in the Association (§ 1006.20(1), F.S.). Member school not only refers to the institution, but also to its administration, faculty, athletic staff, student-athletes, student body, and any other individual or group engaged in activities representing, supporting, or promoting the athletic interests of the school. 3.2.1.1 Restricted Member. A “restricted member” is a member school that has its membership privileges restricted in some manner because it fails to meet the qualifications, conditions, and obligations of membership. 3.2.1.2 Applying Member. An “applying member” is a member school that is under an “application period” immediately following its initial submission of an application for membership. During the “application period,” the school can participate in preseason and regular season interscholastic competition with member schools but will have no other privileges of a “full member.” 3.2.1.3 Provisional Member. A “provisional member” is a member school that is under a “provisional period” immediately following its initial application for membership. During the “provisional period,” the school can participate in preseason and regular season interscholastic competition with member schools but will have no other privileges of a “full member.” 3.2.1.4 Full Member. A full member will enjoy all privileges of membership, unless otherwise specifically withheld according to these bylaws. Membership privileges include, but are not limited to, the privilege to compete in FHSAA championships, the privilege to vote in Association elections, the privilege to seek election to positions in the FHSAA governance structure and sub- structures, and the privilege to make application for and serve as host of multi-school events that require FHSAA office approval. 3.2.1.5 Membership by Sport. A member school shall have the option of maintaining full membership (as defined above) in the association or joining by sport and simultaneously maintaining membership in another athletic association. A member by sport will enjoy the privilege to compete in FHSAA Championships for the sport(s) in which the school holds membership (§ 1006.20(1), F.S.). 3.2.2 Types of Member Schools. 3.2.2.1 Senior High School. A “senior high school” is any traditional public school, charter school, virtual school, private school or university laboratory school that provides instruction to students at one or more grade levels from 9 through 12. 3.2.2.2 Middle/Junior High School. A “middle/junior high school” is any traditional public school, charter school, virtual school, private school or university laboratory school that provides instruction to students in middle school configurations (terminal grade of 6, 7 or 8) or junior high school configurations (terminal grade of 9). 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 9 Revised February 20, 2025 3.2.2.3 Combination School. A “combination school” is any traditional public school, charter school, virtual school, private school or university laboratory school that provides instruction to students in both middle/junior high school grades and/or senior high school grades (i.e. K-12, K-8, 6-12, 7-12, etc.) under the direction of a single principal as defined in Bylaw 1.4.24 and located on the same campus, except for 9-12 high schools which have 9th grade centers at a separate location, with participation and enrollment based on a single campus site. A combination school must hold membership as a middle school if its terminal grade is grade 6 through 8, as a junior high school if its terminal grade is grade 9, or as a senior high school if its terminal grade is grade 10 through 12. 3.2.2.4 Home Education Cooperative. A “home education cooperative” is a parent-directed group of individual home education students that provides opportunities for interscholastic athletic competition to those students and may include students in grades 6–12.

3.3.1 Recognized Sport Defined. A recognized sport is a sport that is recognized by the Board of Directors as being played on an interscholastic basis by member senior high schools. 3.3.2 Requirements for Recognition. The Board of Directors may extend recognition to a sport, effective with the beginning of the next school year, upon the recommendation of the Executive Director, when a minimum of 10 percent (10%) of the total senior high school membership and that are geographically situated in at least two (2) of the four (4) administrative sections submit letters of petition requesting recognition status for the sport on their respective schools’ official stationery. Not more than three-fourths of these schools may be located in the same one administrative section. Each school submitting a letter of petition must have sponsored a program in the sport for a minimum of two (2) years in which it actively engaged in competition in the sport with other schools. The letters of petition must be submitted by the requisite number of member senior high schools within the same school year and shall become invalid at the conclusion of that school year. 3.3.3 Florida High School State Championship Series for Recognized Sports. The Board of Directors may authorize the conduct of a Florida High School State Championship Series in a sport which has been recognized for at least one (1) school year, effective with the following school year, upon the recommendation of the Executive Director. 3.3.3.1 Requirements for a Florida High School State Championship Series. A minimum of 10 percent (10%) of the total senior high school membership must have sponsored a program in, and competed in, the recognized sport for a minimum of two (2) years. 3.3.3.2 Commitment to Participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. When the Board of Directors authorizes a Florida High School State Championship Series in a recognized sport, the FHSAA Office shall require all member senior high schools to record its intention with regard to participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series via Home Campus. A minimum of 10 percent (10%) of the total senior high school membership, of which not more than three- fourths may be geographically located within the same one administrative section, must respond in the affirmative on the commitment form for a Florida High School State Championship Series to be implemented. These schools must have sponsored a program in, and competed in, the sport for a minimum of one (1) year since the sport was given recognition status. It is not necessary that all member senior high schools that commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series have sponsored a program in, and competed in, the sport for a minimum of one (1) year since the sport was given recognition status. It is only necessary that at least 10 percent (10%) of the total senior high school membership that commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series have done so. In committing to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series, schools shall agree to abide by all season limitations, as well as all terms and conditions for the Florida High School State Championship Series, as established by the Board of Directors. If the requisite number of member senior high schools does not commit to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series under these conditions, the Florida High School State Championship Series shall not be implemented at that time. 3.3.4 Current Sports Holding Recognition. None.

3.3.1 Schools. A senior high school, middle/junior high school or combination school located in the state of Florida may become a member if: (a) The principal applies for membership on a form provided for that purpose; (b) The school is registered with the Florida Department of Education; (c) The school is accredited by an agency approved by the Association; (d) The governing body of the school approves the school’s membership in the Association, and adopts these bylaws annually as the rules governing its interscholastic athletic programs; (e) The school pays all dues and other fees required of member schools; (f) The school maintains the insurance coverage required of member schools; (g) The school provides the principal, the FHSAA representative and the athletic director with the appropriate modes of communication; (h) The school, if applicable, successfully completes its applying and provisional period; and (i) The Board of Directors elects the school to membership. 3.3.1.1 Loss of Accreditation. A member school that loses its accreditation will have a maximum of three (3) years to regain accreditation. No privileges of membership will be withheld during this three-year period. 3.3.1.2 Exemption from Accreditation Requirement. A middle/junior high school is exempt from the accreditation requirement. 3.3.2 Home Education Cooperatives. A home education cooperative located in the state of Florida may become a member if: (a) The principal applies for membership on a form provided for that purpose; (b) The governing board of the cooperative adopts these bylaws annually as the rules governing its interscholastic athletic programs; (c) The cooperative pays all dues and other fees required of member schools; (d) The cooperative maintains the insurance coverage required of member schools; (e) The cooperative successfully completes its applying and provisional period; (f) The cooperative provides the principal, the FHSAA representative and the athletic director with the appropriate modes of communication; and (g) The Board of Directors elects the cooperative to membership.

3.4.1 First-Time and Former Member Membership. A completed membership packet (reference Bylaw 3.6.1.1) must be on file at the FHSAA office on or before April 30 for the school to be considered for membership with the association. A conditional three-year membership period will begin upon submittal of the membership application packet which will include the following: 3.4.1.1 Application Period. The application period will be one (1) full year and commence the school year immediately following the submittal of the membership application packet in which the school must show each of the following: (a) Receipt of recommendation letters from six (6) local public and/or private FHSAA full member schools; and (b) Provide registered Florida Department of Education School Number; and (c) Affirmation of Accreditation from an FHSAA approved agency; and 3.4.1.1.1 Acceptance into Provisional Membership. At the conclusion of one year, if each of the above are met, the Board of Directors may approve for a school to enter into Provisional Membership. 3.4.1.1.2 No Extension of Application Period. A school that fails to complete a one-year application period will be directed to reapply again by submitting a completed membership packet (reference Bylaw 3.6.1.1). B 3 MEMBERSHIP 10 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 3.4.1.1.3 Privileges during Application Period. A school in the application period will be recognized as an applying member of the FHSAA and may participate in preseason and regular season interscholastic competition with member schools but will have no other privileges of a full member. 3.4.1.1.4 Exemption from Application Period. A newly opening school created by the consolidation or division of the student populations of existing member schools is exempt from the provisional period if: (a) The new school is governed by the same board as the existing member schools; and (b) The new school meets all other qualifications and conditions of membership. 3.4.1.2 Provisional Membership Period. A two-year provisional period will begin after a school successfully completes its application period of membership and is approved by the Board of Directors. During the provisional period the school must demonstrate an understanding of and comply with all bylaws and other rules of the Association. 3.4.1.2.1 First Year. During the first year of the provisional period the school must be represented at an association approved compliance seminar by its principal, FHSAA representative and athletic director. 3.4.1.2.2 Second Year. During the second year of the provisional period: (a) The school must be represented at an association approved compliance seminar by either its principal, FHSAA representative or athletic director; and (b) The school must submit to an onsite inspection of its interscholastic athletic programs, and (c) Demonstrate a working knowledge of FHSAA regulations. 3.4.1.2.3 Extension of Provisional Period. The Board of Directors may extend the provisional period for additional years or approve, at the request of a school that has not qualified for membership, to have their provisional period extended. 3.4.1.2.4 Exemption from Provisional Period. A newly opening school created by the consolidation or division of the student populations of existing member schools is exempt from the provisional period if: (a) The new school is governed by the same board as the existing member schools; and (b) The new school meets all other qualifications and conditions of membership. 3.4.1.2.5 Privileges during Provisional Period. A provisional member may participate in preseason and regular season interscholastic competition with member schools but will have no other privileges of a full member.

3.4.1 Sanctioned Sport Defined. A sanctioned sport is a recognized sport in which, in the determination of the Board of Directors, a representative number of member senior high schools has engaged in interscholastic competition for a sufficient period of time to warrant sanction of the sport as being eligible for official Florida High School State Championship Series competition. Bylaw 8.5.1 states that sanctioned sports, in which an official Florida High School State Championship Series competition is implemented, may require participants to adhere to a greater degree of regulation subject to terms and conditions established by the Board of Directors. 3.4.2 Requirements of Sanctioning. The Board of Directors may sanction a recognized sport as being eligible for official Florida High School State Championship Series competition, effective with the beginning of the following school year, upon the recommendation of the Executive Director, when a minimum of 20 percent (20%) of the total senior high school membership, which are geographically situated in at least two (2) of the four (4) administrative sections, have sponsored a program in, and competed in, a recognized sport for a minimum of two years. Not more than three-fourths of these schools may be located in the same one administrative section. 3.4.3 Implementation of a Florida High School State Championship Series. When a sport is sanctioned by the Board of Directors as being eligible for official Florida High School State Championship Series competition, the FHSAA Office shall require all member senior high schools to record its intention with regard to participation in Florida High School State Championship Series in the sport via Home Campus. A minimum of 20 percent (20%) of the total senior high school membership, of which not more than three-fourths may be geographically located within the same one administrative section, must respond in the affirmative on the commitment form for an official Florida High School State Championship Series to be implemented in a single classification in the following school year. These schools must have sponsored a program in, and competed in, the sport for a minimum of two (2) years since the sport was given recognition status. It is not necessary that all member senior high schools that commit to participate in the P 3 CATEGORIZATION OF INTERSCHOLASTIC SPORTS 48 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 official Florida High School State Championship Series have sponsored a program in, and competed in, the sport for a minimum of two (2) years since the sport was given recognition status. It is only necessary that at least 20 percent (20%) of the total senior high school membership that commit to participate in the official Florida High School State Championship Series have done so. Otherwise, the official Florida High School State Championship Series shall not be implemented at that time. Any Florida High School State Championship Series that has been implemented and is being conducted in the sport, however, shall be continued. 3.4.4 Season Limitations for Sanctioned Sports. A sanctioned sport, in which an official Florida High School State Championship Series is implemented, shall be regulated by the Association. All Association bylaws, policies, administrative procedures, rules and contest regulations shall apply to the sport and to the member schools that sponsor programs in the sport, regardless of the schools’ intent with regard to participation in an official Florida High School State Championship Series in the sport. The Board of Directors shall establish season limitations to which all member schools sponsoring a program in the sport shall adhere. These season limitations shall include, but not be limited to, beginning and ending dates for practice and competition, as well as a maximum number of regular season contests that schools shall not exceed. 3.4.5 Current Sanctioned Sports. Sports that currently are sanctioned by the Board of Directors are boys baseball, girls basketball, boys basketball, beach volleyball, girls bowling, boys bowling , competitive cheerleading, girls cross country, boys cross country, girls flag football, boys 11-man football, girls golf, boys golf, girls lacrosse, boys lacrosse, girls soccer, boys soccer, girls fast- pitch softball, girls swimming & diving, boys swimming & diving, girls tennis, boys tennis, girls track & field, boys track & field, girls volleyball, boys volleyball, girls water polo, boys water polo, girls weightlifting, boys weightlifting, girls wrestling, and boys wrestling.

3.5.1 Administrative Control. A member school must control its interscholastic athletic programs in accordance with the regulations of the Association. Responsibility for this control rests with the principal, who is responsible for the administration of all aspects of the school’s interscholastic athletic programs. 3.5.1.1 Scope of Responsibility. Responsibility for control of a school’s interscholastic athletic programs extends to and includes the education of, responsibility for and control over the actions of the school’s administration, faculty, athletic staff, student-athletes, student body, and any other individual or group engaged in activities representing, supporting or promoting the athletic interests of the school. 3.5.2 Compliance with Rules. A member school must comply with all bylaws and other rules of the Association. The school must monitor its athletic programs to assure compliance with all bylaws and regulations must identify and report to the FHSAA Office instances in which compliance has not been achieved and must take appropriate corrective actions regarding such instances of non-compliance. Staff members, student-athletes and other individuals and groups representing, supporting, or promoting the school’s athletic interests must comply with applicable bylaws and rules. The school is responsible for such compliance. 3.5.2.1 Eligibility of Student-Athletes. A member school must certify the eligibility of all student-athletes. The school must not permit a student-athlete to participate in interscholastic competition unless the student-athlete meets all eligibility requirements. 3.5.2.2 Cooperation with Association. A member school must fully cooperate in the investigation of any alleged violation of the bylaws or other rules of the Association. A school that refuses to permit the interview of any individual, to grant access to and inspection of pertinent records, to submit relevant information to the Association upon request, or otherwise interferes with or obstructs the investigation, will be in violation of this provision. 3.5.2.3 Attendance at Compliance Seminar. A member senior high/combination school must be represented by its principal and/or FHSAA representative and/or athletic director at periodic association approved compliance seminars as established by the Board of Directors. 3.5.2.4 Audits and Compliance Reviews. The FHSAA Office may review member schools to verify compliance with bylaws and other rules of the Association. A school selected for review must fully cooperate with the review. A school that refuses to grant access to and inspection of records under review or refuses to permit the interview of any individual responsible for maintaining those records, or otherwise interferes with or obstructs the review, will be in violation of this provision. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 11 Revised February 20, 2025 3.5.3 Insurance Coverage. Prior to participating in interscholastic athletic competition or engaging in any practice, tryout, workout, or other physical activity associated with the student’s candidacy for an interscholastic team, each student athlete must be covered by athletic accident medical insurance, catastrophic accident insurance and catastrophic disability insurance. A member school must verify that athletic accident medical insurance coverage, catastrophic accident insurance coverage, and catastrophic disability insurance coverage is provided for each of its student-athletes. The school also must provide general liability insurance coverage for itself. The Board of Directors will establish the minimum limits for each type of insurance coverage. 3.5.4 Sportsmanship and Ethical Conduct. A member school must establish policies that promote sportsmanship and ethical conduct in its interscholastic athletic programs. These policies must require student-athletes, coaches and all other individuals associated with the school’s interscholastic athletic programs to adhere to such fundamental values as respect, fairness, civility, honesty, and responsibility. The school must educate, on a continuing basis, all staff members, student-athletes, student body, and other individuals and groups representing, supporting, or promoting the school’s athletic interests about these policies. 3.5.5 Acceptance of Decisions. A member school must accept in good faith the decisions of the Association. A member school that, by any act or attitude, refuses to accept a decision of the Association, or holds in contempt or derision the decision, or permits or acquiesces in any contempt or derision on the part of any group or individual associated with the school, may be expelled, or assigned to restricted membership. This provision does not deny a member school the right to due process within the Association as provided in these bylaws.

3.6.1 First-Time Membership. The principal of a school applying for first-time membership must submit a complete application packet as provided by this association. The application packet must be received in the FHSAA Office on or before a date established by the Board of Directors for the school to be considered for admission in the following school year. 3.6.1.1 Application Packet 3.6.1.1.1 Application Form. The application form must be obtained from the FHSAA Office. The form must be fully completed and signed by the principal. 3.6.1.1.2 Insurance Coverage. The principal must provide photocopies of insurance certificates showing that the school has purchased the insurance coverage required of member schools. 3.6.1.1.3 Financial Condition. The principal must document that the school can meet the financial obligations of membership. This documentation must be a photocopy of financial statements from the most recent period that have been independently audited or reviewed by a certified public accountant, and one of the following: (a) A photocopy of the school’s most recent federal tax return; or (b) A photocopy of prior year operating revenues and expenses as reported to the governing body for the school; or (c) A photocopy of operating budget revenues and expenses for the school that has been approved by the governing body. 3.6.1.2 Former Member. A former member school that applies to re-establish its membership must pay a re-admission fee, satisfy any outstanding obligations to the Association, and complete its application and provisional period before it becomes eligible for re-election to full membership. These conditions will apply whether the school’s previous membership was terminated voluntarily or involuntary. 3.6.2 Continuing Membership. The FHSAA Office will provide to each member school a form on which to continue its membership. The principal must complete, sign, and return the form to the FHSAA Office by a date established by the Board of Directors. A school that does not submit the form by the deadline will be assessed a late fee. A school whose form is not received by a date established by the Board of Directors may not be considered for reelection to membership. 3.6.2.1 Insurance Coverage. A member school continuing its membership must provide photocopies of insurance certificates showing that the school has purchased the insurance coverage required of member schools. 3.6.2.2 Good Standing. A member school must be in good standing with the Association to continue its membership without restriction. Good standing requires the school to satisfy all outstanding obligations to the Association by the conclusion of the current school year.

30.2.1 Penalties Assessed the Student-Athlete. Student-athletes who commit unsportsmanlike acts before, during or after a contest will be subject to the following suspension levels as determined by the designee of the Executive Director: 30.2.1.1 Level 1 Suspension. A student-athlete who commits an unsportsmanlike act or a flagrant foul for which he/she is ejected from the contest will be ineligible to compete for the remainder of that contest and for a minimum of the next contest, at the same level of participation in the sport of the suspension and in any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport, at any level, during the period of suspension. If the unsportsmanlike act or flagrant foul occurs in the last contest of a season, the student will be ineligible for the same period of time as stated above in the next sport in which the student participates; or 30.2.1.2 Level 2 Suspension. A student-athlete who receives a second Level 1 Suspension or commits an unsportsmanlike act, as defined in Bylaw 7.2.1, will be ineligible to compete, at a minimum, in the next interscholastic athletic contest, at any level, for a period of up to a maximum of the following: (a) Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, and Water Polo - 12 contests (b) Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Lacrosse, and Tennis - 9 contests (c) Cross Country, Swimming & Diving, Track & Field, Flag Football, and Weightlifting - 6 contests (d) Football and Competitive Cheerleading - 5 contests (e) Golf - 8 contests (f) Wrestling - 10 contests; or P 30 UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT 92 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 30.2.1.3 Level 3 Suspension. A student-athlete who receives a second Level 2 Suspension or commits an egregious unsportsmanlike act, as determined in the sole discretion of the Executive Director, will be ineligible to compete in the next interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for a period of up to one (1) year; or 30.2.1.4 Level 4 Suspension. A student-athlete who receives three (3) or more Level 2 Suspensions or commits an egregious unsportsmanlike act, as determined in the sole discretion of the Board of Directors, will be ineligible to compete in any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for the duration of the student-athlete’s high school career. 30.2.1.5 It is the responsibility of the local school authorities to ensure this policy is enforced. When an ineligible student is allowed to participate, forfeiture of the contest is mandatory. This policy applies to all regular season and Florida High School State Championship Series contests. 30.2.2 Penalties Assessed the School. 30.2.2.1 In the event that more than three (3) students from the same school have been assessed with any suspension level, as defined in 30.2.1, in any one sport, beginning with the fourth suspension, the school will be immediately placed on administrative probation in that sport for one or more years, and may be assessed a minimum monetary penalty of $100 per suspension and/or other sanctions in that sport for the remainder of that sport’s season. 30.2.2.2 On the first Level 2 suspension or higher, as defined in 30.2.1, of a student in any sport, a written warning shall be issued to the school that each subsequent suspension, at Level 2 or higher, in any sport may subject the school to a minimum monetary penalty of $250 per occurrence and/or other sanctions. Beginning with the next suspension of a student, at Level 2 or higher, the minimum monetary penalty of $250 and/or other sanctions will be assessed. 30.2.2.3 Participation by one or more student-athletes in an altercation in the bench area, or by leaving the bench and entering the court or playing field (i.e., bench-emptying) or by leaving their designated position on the court or playing field to engage in an altercation may subject the school to a minimum monetary penalty of $100 per student and/or other sanctions.

30.3.1 Penalties Assessed the Coach or Other Representative of the School’s Athletic Interests . Coaches or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests (see Bylaw 1.4.17) who commit unsportsmanlike acts before, during or after a contest will be subject to the following suspension levels as determined by the designee of the Executive Director: 30.3.1.1 Level 1 Suspension. A coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests (see Bylaw 1.4.17) who commits an unsportsmanlike act for which he/she is ejected from the contest, will be ineligible to coach or attend the remainder of that contest and for a minimum of the next contest, at the same level of participation in the sport of the suspension and in any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport, at any level, during the period of suspension. If the unsportsmanlike act occurs in the last contest of a season, the coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests will be ineligible for the same period of time as stated above in the next sport in which the coach participates; or 30.3.1.2 Level 2 Suspension. A coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests (see Bylaw 1.4.17) who receives a second Level 1 Suspension or commits an unsportsmanlike act, as defined in Bylaw 7.2.1, will be ineligible to coach or attend, at a minimum, the next interscholastic athletic contest in any sport, at any level, for a period of up to a maximum of the following: (a) Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, and Water Polo - 12 contests (b) Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Lacrosse, and Tennis - 9 contests (c) Cross Country, Swimming & Diving, Track & Field, Flag Football, and Weightlifting - 6 contests (d) Football and Competitive Cheerleading - 5 contests (e) Golf - 8 contests (f) Wrestling - 10 contests; or 30.3.1.3 Level 3 Suspension. A coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests (see Bylaw 1.4.17) who receives a second Level 2 Suspension or commits an egregious unsportsmanlike act, as determined in the sole discretion of the Executive Director, will be ineligible to coach or attend the next interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for a period of up to one (1) year. 30.3.1.4 When a coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests is disqualified (ejected) from a contest, the coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests shall immediately leave the premises or facility (i.e. gymnasium in basketball, volleyball and wrestling; stadium/field in baseball, football, soccer and softball, etc.) to a place where the coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests is not visible to either student-athletes, officials, spectators or other coaches; and to where the contest itself is not visible to the coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests. A disqualified (ejected) coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests shall not have any further contact with or give instruction to athletes or other members of the coaching staff for the remainder of the contest, including halftime intermission, breaks between quarters, periods or innings and post-contest activities. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 93 Revised February 20, 2025 30.3.1.5 A coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests who is suspended from the next contest or number of contests after having been disqualified (ejected) from a previous contest shall not attend the contest(s) from which he/she has been suspended in any capacity and shall not be present at the site(s) of such contest(s). A suspended coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests also shall be prohibited from accompanying his/her team to the site(s) of such contest(s). 30.3.1.6 All coaches or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests who have been disqualified (ejected) from a contest must complete the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) “Teaching and Modeling Behavior” course prior to the completion of the suspension or within thirty (30) calendar days, whichever comes first. A copy of the certificate of completion must be sent to the FHSAA at time of completion. This course is accessible from the NFHS Learning Center online. 30.3.2 Penalties Assessed to the School. 30.3.2.1 A school whose coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests commits an unsportsmanlike act before, during or after a contest shall be assessed a minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions. Additional minimum monetary penalties up to $250 (per occurrence) and/or other sanctions may be imposed for unsportsmanlike conduct such as, but not limited to, use of profanity or other such gutter language or gestures, continuing to give instruction to his/her student-athletes or other members of the coaching staff after having been ejected, pursuit of officials with intent following a contest by a coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests, refusal of a coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests to leave the court, playing field or team area after being ejected, physical contact by a coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests with an official and premature termination of contest by an official due to unsportsmanlike conduct. 30.3.2.2 It is the responsibility of the local school authorities to ensure this policy is enforced. When a coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests is allowed to coach in or attend a contest from which he/she has been suspended, the school shall face additional penalties. This policy applies to all regular season and Florida High School State Championship Series contests. 30.4 Public Criticism of Officials. No coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests may publicly criticize or berate an official prior to, during or following a contest. Professional ethics require that coaches or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests use proper channels, as per Bylaw 10.3.2, to report their complaints about officials rather than airing them publicly. A minimum monetary penalty of $50 and/or other sanctions may be assessed a school whose coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interests are in violation of this provision.

Narcotics. The use of human growth hormones, steroids, performance-enhancing drugs, or schedule 3 narcotics by a student-athlete is not permissible and shall be reported to the FHSAA and the principal. The use of such substances is considered to be an act of unsportsmanlike conduct. A student-athlete discovered to be using such substances will be ineligible to compete in any interscholastic contest until such time as medical evidence can be presented to the FHSAA and the principal that the student’s system is free of those substances. P 31 USE OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, HGH, STEROIDS, PED, AND NARCOTICS 94 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 31.2.1 Any student-athlete under the care of a pediatric endocrinologist or an appropriately trained specialist being treated with idiopathic short stature (ISS) as outlined by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) may appeal for exemption and shall provide appropriate medical documentation to the principal prior to competition. 31.2.2 Any student-athlete, under the direct care of a physician, who has been prescribed to use any hormone replacement drug shall provide the appropriate medical documentation to the principal prior to competition. 31.2.3 A coach or other representative of the school’s athletic interest who facilitates, provides, or condones the acquisition or use of these prohibited substances will be ineligible to coach or attend any interscholastic contest for a minimum of one (1) year. POLICY 32 INCLEMENT WEATHER AND SUSPENDED CONTESTS 32.1 Storms. If a thunderstorm or electrical storm occurs in the area prior to the start of or during any outdoor contest, the officials must immediately contact the principal or his/her designee of each school involved in the contest to determine if the contest should be played as scheduled, delayed, suspended, or postponed. If the principal or his/her designee of either of the schools involved requests that the contest be interrupted or postponed, with the exception of FHSAA State Championship Series events, the officials must immediately honor such request. If the principal or his/her designee of only one of the competing schools is available, with the exception of FHSAA State Championship Series events, his/her request must be honored. The FHSAA administrative staff, State Finals host and officials shall manage any inclement weather situations at FHSAA State Finals events. 32.1.1 For the benefit of member schools, the NFHS offers a Lightning Guideline to assist in inclement weather situations. 32.2 Safety is Paramount. The safety and welfare of all concerned is of paramount importance. In no case may an official deny a request by a principal or his/her designee to delay, suspend or postpone an outdoor contest due to inclement weather or imply that the contest will be forfeited as a result of such a request. 32.3 Suspended Contests. A suspended contest shall be resumed from the point of interruption, unless National Federation Rules, FHSAA Bylaws and/or Policies determine that the contest is a completed contest based on where the contest is at the point of interruption. POLICY 33 SIDELINE CHEERLEADING As per s.1006.18, Florida Statutes, the “Spirit Rules,” published by the National Federation of State High School Associations, shall be the statewide uniform safety standards for sideline cheerleading.

33.1.1 Cheerleaders are prohibited from building pyramids higher than two tiers during any routine in practice or during a performance in conjunction with an interscholastic contest. Host school principals are responsible for the enforcement of this regulation during regular season contests. Tournament/Meet managers and directors will be responsible for the enforcement of the regulation during Florida High School State Championship Series contests. 33.1.2 Prior to a student’s participation in cheerleading tryouts, practice or performance, the student must secure a physician’s certificate to the effect that the student is physically fit for participation.

34.2.1 Florida High School State Championship Series contests are the sole property of the FHSAA and may not be reproduced and marketed or otherwise distributed or publicly displayed in any manner without the express written permission of the FHSAA. The FHSAA retains all rights to the television broadcast or cablecast, radio broadcast, internet broadcast (audio and/or video), videotaping, filming, and photographing of all Florida High School State Championship Series contests. 34.2.2 The FHSAA, subject to the policies of the host facility, allows still cameras and video cameras to be used at Florida High School State Championship Series contests so that participants and spectators may record the event for their own personal use – not for the purposes of commercial resale or public redistribution in any form. Only those duly authorized organizations or individuals who have been granted appropriate rights by contract or by issued credential shall be permitted to sell or publicly display or otherwise redistribute images and sounds of Florida High School State Championship Series contests and then only in accordance with the terms and conditions established by the FHSAA. 34.2.3 Each participating school shall be permitted to photograph, film or videotape, for archival, coaching, or instructional purposes, only those Florida High School State Championship Series contests in which its team or contestants perform when arrangements are made with the contest management. Photographers, videographers, and their equipment must be positioned so that they do not block the view of any spectator. 34.2.4 There may be additional guidelines or restrictions for Florida High School State Championship Series events. Consult the appropriate section(s) in Administrative Procedures or the state finals information packet, when available, for additional guidelines or restrictions concerning photographing, filming, and videotaping at a Florida High School State Championship Series event in that sport. 34.3 Use of Drones. The use of drones is prohibited on the premises of any FHSAA State Championship Series event.

A boarding student who attends a boarding school that does not comply fully with the provisions of this policy shall not be eligible to represent the boarding school in interscholastic athletic competition. 35.1.1 Boarding School Defined. A boarding school is defined as a school that has an enrolled resident boarding school population in the ninth through 12th grades of at least 25 boarding students or 10 percent of the full student enrollment in its ninth through 12th grades, whichever is greater. Schools that do not meet these enrollment requirements must satisfy the additional requirements set forth in FHSAA Policy 35.1.8 and its subparagraphs herein below. 35.1.2 Requirements. A boarding school must have appropriate dormitory facilities to house, feed and provide general living accommodations for boarding students. A boarding school must also employ and have on duty 24 hours a day in the dormitories appropriately trained supervisory dormitory personnel. P 34 35 PHOTOGRAPH, FILM, AND VIDEO BOARDING, HOMESTAY, ACADEMIES 96 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 35.1.3 Must be Recognized. A boarding school must be recognized as a boarding school in its own literature and must be verified as such by the Florida Association of Academic Non-public Schools (FAANS), Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS) and/or the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS). 35.1.4 Per Week Living Requirements. A boarding student must spend at least an average of five (5) days per week living and boarding on campus while school is in session. 35.1.5 Sport Eligibility. No more than 50 percent of the athletes on any team, sub-varsity or varsity, can be boarding school students, if the team intends to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series in that sport. In individual sports, schools with rosters consisting of more than 50 percent students who are boarding students shall not be eligible to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series in that sport. 35.1.5.1 Exception. Schools boarding student population which exceeds 50 percent of the total school population may field a team or roster in individual sports proportional to their boarding student population, provided it does not exceed 2/3 of the team membership. 35.1.5.2 Exception. Boarding students who travel home on the weekends and whose parent’s permanent address is inside the county boundaries where the school is located shall not be calculated in the boarding student population as in 35.1.5 and 35.1.5.1. 35.1.6 Supervisors. Coaches or other individuals employed by or associated with a boarding school’s athletic program shall not serve as dormitory supervisors or otherwise live with boarding students in school housing. 35.1.7 Financial Assistance. Only those schools that qualify as boarding schools, as defined herein may provide any assistance for room and board to students who participate in interscholastic athletics, and only if such assistance is based on financial need. In no other schools may room and board expense be included in the determination of school expenses and financial need. 35.1.8 Compliance Issues. A school that satisfies the requirements of sections 35.1.2 – 35.1.7 above, but cannot satisfy the requirements of section 35.1.1 above, shall comply with the following additional requirements: 35.1.8.1 The school shall notify the FHSAA in writing of the name of each boarding student, his/her grade in school and the interscholastic sport(s) in which he/she will participate; 35.1.8.2 Not more than 25 percent of the school’s boarding students may be members of the school’s varsity or junior varsity athletic teams in any single sport; 35.1.8.3 The school shall permit the FHSAA to conduct on-site inspections of the school, the full costs of such inspections to be borne solely by the school; and 35.1.8.4 The FHSAA at any time may disqualify the students enrolled in the school’s boarding program from further interscholastic athletic participation should the Executive Director determine that the school is using the boarding program for any improper athletic purpose.

35.2.1 Homestay Program Defined. Homestay is a program whereby students from other parts of the United States reside with local families in order to enhance their cultural and/or religious experiences. Homestay arrangements can be made through independent homestay agencies, through local religious institutions or privately by the student’s family.

38.1.1 School-Administered Financial Assistance. Financial assistance provided by a school must be administered by the school; meaning that the school, through an established process that conforms to this policy, makes the final determination of the student who is to receive the assistance and the amount of assistance to be given. No student-athlete may accept financial assistance from any other person, business, or organization unless it is received from one upon whom the student-athlete is naturally or legally dependent or is received through established and continuing programs to assist students that are administered by the State of Florida. 38.1.1.1 Criteria for Providing Financial Assistance. School-based financial assistance must be based entirely on financial need as determined by an independent financial needs assessment company that is approved by the FHSAA. A school may supplement the amount of financial assistance for which a student is determined to qualify provided the same form of supplemental assistance is provided to each and every student who qualifies for any amount of financial assistance. Financial assistance must be totally unrelated to a student’s athletic interest, potential or performance. Financial assistance based even partially on a student’s athletic interest, potential or performance is not permitted. 38.1.1.2 Merit Scholarships, Remission, and Tuition Reduction Programs. A member school may provide merit scholarships based on a student’s academic performance, or other achievement, provided the scholarship is totally unrelated to the student’s athletic interest, potential, or performance. A member school may provide remission and tuition reduction programs, provided the remission and reduction is applied consistently to each student who meets the criteria. 38.1.1.3 Assistance with Room or Meals. School-based financial assistance for costs associated with room or meals, other than those meals made available during the school day to all students, may be provided only to students who board at FHSAA-recognized boarding schools, and then only if such financial assistance is based on financial need. 38.1.1.4 Work-Study Programs. A work-study program in which students receive financial assistance from a school in exchange for labor performed by the student for the school may be operated as follows: (a) The school must limit participation in the work-study program to those students who have been independently determined to have a need for financial assistance. (b) The school must submit to the FHSAA Office each school year a complete description of the work-study program and the process for determining the students who are chosen for participation. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 103 Revised February 20, 2025 (c) The school must maintain detailed records regarding each student who participates in the work-study program. These records must include a description of the job(s) performed by the student, a documentation of the hours worked by the student, and the amount of financial assistance given the student in exchange for his/her labor. (d) A student-athlete must not receive financial assistance through a work-study program during the season of the sport(s) in which the student-athlete participates. (e) Athletic department staff members and other representatives of the school’s athletic interests cannot supervise student- athletes in work-study programs. 38.1.1.5 Approved Financial Needs Assessment Companies. The FHSAA approved independent financial needs assessment companies are as follows: (a) FACTS Management www.factsmgt.com (b) FAST www.ismfast.com (c) Financial Aid Independent Review www.fairtuition.com (d) Blackbaud Tuition Management www.blackbaud.school (e) School & Student Services (SSS) www.solutionsbysss.com (f) TADS www.tads.com (g) Clarity www.clarityschools.com 38.1.1.6 Records Relating to Financial Assistance. The school must keep detailed records of school-based financial assistance provided to each student. This includes the report of the student’s financial need as determined by the independent assessment company as well as the actual amount of financial assistance provided to the student by the school, and how that actual amount was determined. The school must make all records available to the Executive Director or his/her designee for inspection upon request. 38.1.1.7 Persons Who May Discuss Financial Assistance Opportunities. The only persons who may discuss financial assistance opportunities with a prospective student or any member of his/her family are those school employees who administer the school’s registration, admission, and financial assistance programs. No other school employee, any athletic department staff member or representative of the school’s athletic interests may suggest to or promise a prospective student or any member of his/ her family that any part of the student’s costs of attending the school may be reduced, waived, or paid for, or that financial assistance may be granted for any reason, including financial need. 38.1.1.8 Involvement of Athletic Personnel in Administration of Assistance Program. Athletic department staff members, other than those persons who have as their major responsibility an official leadership role in the academic leadership or admission programs of the school, are prohibited from sitting on the school’s financial assistance committee or otherwise playing any role in the process of deciding which students receive financial assistance or the types or amount of assistance they will be given. 38.1.2 Financial Assistance Not Administered by School. Students may apply for and receive financial assistance through established and continuing programs to assist students that are administered by the State of Florida. 38.1.3 Contributions by Donor. Funds that are donated to schools by persons, businesses and organizations may be given as financial assistance to students provided the decision as to how the funds are allocated rests exclusively with the school. It is not permissible for a donor to contribute funds to provide financial assistance for a particular student-athlete.

4.1.6.1 Practice games, exhibition games, non-contract games and scrimmage games with other schools, groups, alumni, or league teams are strictly prohibited. All such games or sessions shall be on an intra-squad basis. Non-squad members may not participate in any team practice, game, or contest.

4.3.1 Composition. The Board of Directors is composed of the following thirteen (13) members (§ 1006.20(4)(a), F.S.): (a) Two public member school representatives elected from among its public school representative members. Each elected representative must be from different administrative sections; (b) Two nonpublic member school representatives elected from among its nonpublic school representative members. Each elected representative must be from a different administrative section that is also different from the public member school representatives elected under (a); (c) Two public member school representatives appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from different administrative sections; (d) Two nonpublic member school representatives appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from different administrative sections that are also different than those represented by the public member school representatives appointed under (c); B 4 ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE 14 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 (e) Two representatives, one appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from the two northernmost administrative sections and one appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from the two southernmost administrative sections; (f) One district school superintendent appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from the northernmost administrative section; (g) One district school board member appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate from the southernmost administrative section; and (h) The Commissioner of Education or his/her designee from the Department of Education executive staff. 4.3.1.2 Quorum. A quorum of the Board of Directors consists of nine members. 4.3.1.3 Passage. A majority of votes cast by board members voting is required to pass any measure. 4.3.2 Duties and Responsibilities. The Board of Directors: (a) Adopts and amends bylaws, administrative polices and regulations to govern the Association’s programs; (b) Employs the Association’s Executive Director; (c) Approves and oversees the Association’s budget; (d) Assesses annual membership dues and other fees; (e) Provides strategic planning for the Association; (f) Authorizes statewide competitions that may or may not lead to state championships and establishes regulations governing those competitions; (g) Serves as the highest and final appellate authority of the Association. 4.3.2.1 Budget and Audit. The Board of Directors at its final regularly scheduled meeting of a school year approves a preliminary budget for the next school year. It approves a final budget for the school year at its first regularly scheduled meeting of that school year. The budget adopted by the Board of Directors must be ratified by the State Board of Education (§1006.20(e)(5), F.S.). The Board of Directors provides for an annual audit of all accounts by a certified public accountant and the report is made available upon request. 4.3.2.2 Appellate Authority. The Board of Directors interprets and renders a final decision on all questions and appeals that result from the Association’s supervision of interscholastic athletic programs. It has administrative responsibility and rulemaking authority for the Association’s appellate branch. As such, the Board: (a) Reviews, at the Executive Director’s request, the decision of a Sectional Appeals Committee or the Infraction Appeals Committee that directly conflicts with decisions of other Sectional Appeals Committees or the Board of Directors on the same question or rule, or that in the Executive Director’s opinion conflicts with the rules of the Association or has a great effect on the proper administration of interscholastic athletic programs throughout the state; and (b) Renders at the Executive Director’s request an advisory opinion addressing issues as provided by rule. 4.3.2.3 Delegation of Duties and Responsibilities. The Board of Directors, when it deems appropriate, may assign for recommendation specific matters to committees that it creates for those purposes. The Board of Directors will make a final determination based on the committee’s recommendation. 4.3.3 Meetings. The Board of Directors meets a minimum of five times each school year. It sets the date and place of each meeting. The president may call additional meetings if needed.

4.4.1 Composition. There will be one Sectional Appeals Committee in each of the four administrative sections. Each committee will consist of the following seven (7) members: (a) Two members representing public schools elected by, and from, the public school FHSAA Representatives in the section; (b) One member representing non-public schools elected by, and from, the non-public school FHSAA Representatives in the section; (c) One member representing public school districts selected on a rotating basis, when possible, by the Florida Association of District School Superintendents from among district school superintendents, or by the Florida School Boards Association from among district school board members in the section. (d) One member representing recognized non-public school accrediting associations selected by the Florida Association of Academic Non-public Schools from among district-, regional- or school-based non-public school administrators or governing board members in the section; (e) One at-large member from an under-represented sex and/or race appointed by the Board of Directors from among district-, regional- or school-based administrators in the section; and (f) One attorney from among attorneys living in the section, who within the last five years has been a member in good standing of the Florida Bar or the bar of any other state in the union. 4.4.1.1 Restrictions. No member of the Board of Directors can serve on a Sectional Appeals Committee. 4.4.1.2 Criteria for Board-Appointed Members 4.4.1.2.1 At-Large Member. If 60 percent or more of the schools within a section are public, the Board of Directors must appoint a public school administrator as the at-large member. If less than 60 percent of the schools within the section are public, the Board of Directors must appoint a non-public school administrator as the at-large member. 4.4.1.2.2 Attorney. The attorney cannot be connected with any member school, public school district or non-public school accrediting organization, or represent student-athletes, coaches or athletic directors in any manner. 4.4.1.3 Committee Officers 4.4.1.3.1 Chairperson. The attorney serves as chairperson. He/she presides over all meetings of the committee and is the only member who may have contact with the FHSAA staff relative to any case pending before the committee. 4.4.1.3.2 Vice Chairperson. The committee elects a vice chairperson from among its members at the first meeting of each school year. The vice chairperson presides over meetings of the committee when the chairperson is absent or unable to act. 4.4.1.3.3 Vacancies. If the chairperson vacates the office before the end of the term of service, the Board of Directors will appoint a replacement during its next regularly scheduled meeting. The vice chairperson, meanwhile, will serve as chairperson until a replacement is appointed. If the vice chairperson vacates the office before the end of the term of service, the committee will elect a new vice chairperson during its next regularly scheduled meeting. 4.4.1.4 Conflict of Interest. A member of a Sectional Appeals Committee who is associated with a school that files an appeal to the committee must disqualify himself or herself from hearing the case to avoid any conflict of interest. 4.4.1.5 Quorum. A quorum of a Sectional Appeals Committee will be four members. The Executive Director will appoint a qualified person or persons to serve as substitute members to ensure the presence of a quorum when it is known a committee member or members will not be present. 4.4.1.6 Passage. A majority of votes cast by committee members voting will be required to pass any measure. 4.4.2 Duties and Responsibilities. Each Sectional Appeals Committee will: (a) Decide requests by schools seeking exceptions to bylaws and regulations of the Association; (b) Decide undue hardship eligibility cases that are filed by schools on behalf of students; and (c) Decide appeals of decisions rendered by the Executive Director or his/her designee that are filed by member schools. The Sectional Appeals Committee can only sustain, modify, or overturn the decision. B 4 ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE 16 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 4.4.2.1 Florida Statutes. A Sectional Appeals Committee will not have the authority to waive any provision of Florida Statutes. 4.4.2.2 Meetings. Each Sectional Appeals Committee will meet as needed to carry out its duties and responsibilities nine times each school year. These nine meetings must be held the months of August, September, October, November, December, January, February, March, and April on such dates as adopted by the Board of Directors.

4.5.1 Employment. The Executive Director is the Association’s chief executive officer. The Board of Directors selects and employs the Executive Director by written contract for a stated period of time. This contract of employment may be renewed under conditions that are mutually satisfactory to the Executive Director and the Board of Directors. No person, however, can be employed as Executive Director beyond the end of the school year in which he/she reaches the age of 70. The hiring of the Executive Director must be ratified by the State Board of Education. 4.5.1.1 Staff. The Executive Director is authorized to employ additional persons as needed to efficiently conduct the business of the Association. Such additional persons shall report directly to the Executive Director or his/her designee. 4.5.2 Duties and Responsibilities. The Executive Director: (a) Manages and directs the affairs of the Association; (b) Administers and enforces FHSAA rules and impose sanctions when he/she finds that violations have occurred; (c) Presents an operating budget to the Board of Directors each year for approval, acts as custodian of all Association funds, and updates the Board of Directors on the Association’s financial status at each of its meetings; (d) Waives bylaws in order to comply with changes to Florida Statutes; (e) Prepares and issues to schools all necessary publications, forms and other materials, including but not limited to: 1. Annual Calendar of events and activities; 2. Handbook of Bylaws and Policies; 3. Current Membership List and Membership Directory; and 4. Manuals and Guidebooks. (f) Receives and checks all reports submitted by schools; (g) Rules on the eligibility of all student-athletes who participate in interscholastic athletic programs in the sports recognized by the Association; (h) Calls upon the Board of Directors for advice and assistance, and performs such duties as may be necessary and expedient; (i) Keeps a record of all meetings of the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors, Sectional Appeals Committees and Infractions Appeal Committee; (j) Mediates controversies between schools at their request; (k) Represents, or designates a representative for, the Association in mediation of student eligibility issues; (l) Refers to the Board of Directors for its review any decisions of Sectional Appeals Committees that he/she believes directly conflict with decisions of other Sectional Appeals Committees, of the Infractions Appeal Committee or of the Board of Directors or the same question or rule, or that, in his/her opinion, conflicts with the rules of the Association or has a great effect on the proper administration of interscholastic athletic programs throughout the state; (m) Approves and supervises all tournaments, meets and contest schedules under the rules of the Association; (n) Refers any of his/her decisions or rulings to the appropriate Sectional Appeals Committee, the Infractions Appeal Committee or the Board of Directors upon the request of a school; (o) Oversees and directs audits and compliance reviews; (see Bylaw 3.5.2.4); (p) Performs any other duties as may be assigned by the Board of Directors. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 17 Revised February 20, 2025 4.5.2.1 Emergency Power to Grant Provisional Eligibility. The Executive Director’s office may grant provisional eligibility, such as, but not limited to, sub-varsity participation, to a student-athlete who suddenly becomes ineligible if, in its opinion: (a) The circumstances that cause the student-athlete to be ineligible are of a sudden and extraordinary nature and are completely beyond the control of the student-athlete, his/her parents, or school; and (b) The student-athlete will miss all or most of the sport season in which he/she participates if required to wait for the opportunity for a hearing before a Sectional Appeals Committee. 4.5.2.1.1 Period of Provisional Eligibility. Any period of provisional eligibility granted to a student-athlete will end with the next regularly scheduled Sectional Appeals Committee meeting, during which his/her undue hardship waiver request will be considered. The student-athlete will immediately become ineligible for further competition if the Sectional Appeals Committee does not grant the waiver. The school that permitted the student-athlete to participate during the period of provisional eligibility, however, will not be penalized unless it is determined that provisional eligibility was granted on the basis of erroneous information provided by the student-athlete, his/her parents, or school. 4.5.2.2 Power to Mediate Student Eligibility. After a sectional appeals decision has been rendered, the Executive Director may resolve issues solely related to a student’s eligibility through mediation in accordance with these Bylaws. In this mediation the student athlete will be represented by his/her member school. 4.5.2.3 Compliance Reviews and Investigative Procedures. The Executive Director or his/her designee is authorized to assign individuals to investigate matters of student eligibility and/or bylaw/policy violations. The procedures outlined in Policy 39 (Policy on Investigative Procedures), which shall be in full compliance with § 1006.20(2)(g), F.S., will be followed for such investigations. Information and evidence obtained by an investigator will be submitted to the Executive Director or his/her designee for determination of eligibility and compliance. A determination of ineligibility or violation of bylaws/policies must be made in writing, setting forth the findings of fact and specific violation upon which the decision was based.

41.1.1 Requirement for Coaches and Student Athletes. All FHSAA member school head coaches and paid/ supplemented coaches and student athletes shall annually view the FREE NFHS online education course “Heat Illness Prevention”. This free NFHS heat illness course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. P 41 EXERTIONAL HEAT ILLNESS 108 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 41.1.2 Recommendation. All member school personnel, contest officials, student-athletes, parents, and media are strongly encouraged to educate themselves by viewing the FREE NFHS online education course “Heat Illness Prevention”. This free NFHS heat illness course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. 41.2 Intent. The intent of this policy is to keep student-athletes safe by emphasizing safety parameters at the start of any sport season as students begin exertional activities. The policy reminds coaches of all sports that heat, especially here in Florida and across the southeast United States, can be dangerous and is regarded as one of the top causes of sudden death in young athletes. This policy require s FHSAA member schools to follow a preseason acclimatization and recovery model for all sports to enhance student-athlete well- being. The policy also requires individual schools, or districts, to monitor environmental conditions during and after the acclimatization period (14 days) and comply with standard recommendations for practice modifications, for the safety of the student-athlete. 41.2.1 These policies provide general regulations and shall be applied year-round for conducting preseason practices and voluntary conditioning sessions for secondary school-age student athletes. This policy also provides requirements for environmental monitoring and provides the approved modification index required by all member schools and sports. 41.2. 2 Application of these regulations should not be based solely on the information contained here within; but should represent the minimal safety precautions promoted through the FHSAA. Coaches and Schools are encouraged to review published recommendations through the NFHS or the National Athletic Trainers Association and other reliable sources to further protect student-athletes from the harmful effects of the heat. 41.2. 3 Individuals responsible for supervising student-athletes are equally responsible for prudent judgment when making decisions with respect to safety at each practice and event , for each athlete and within each facility or venue . 41.3 Heat Acclimatization. Heat acclimation or acclimatization plays a large part in the body’s physical responses and overall ability to cope with heat exposure. Heat acclimatization is a broad term loosely defined as a complex series of changes or adaptations that occur in response to heat stress in a controlled environment for approximately 7 to 14 days. These adaptations, such as increased sweat rate, earlier onset of sweat, improved skin blood flow, and improved fluid balance, are beneficial to exercise in the heat and allow the body to cope better with heat stress. 41.3.1 Rationale. The recommendation of the National Federation of High School Association’s (NFHS) Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and the National Athletic Trainers’ Association’s (NATA) Secondary School Committee, that all sports use acclimatization and recovery principles to develop their preseason practice schedules for the purpose of enhancing the student athlete well-being, is based on the following: The primary focus of the preseason period should be to provide an adjustment period to the intensity and duration of exercise and environmental conditions. These procedures are based upon medical literature. Careful consideration should be given to the various levels of fitness in the high school student-athlete. Coaches should progressively phase in conditioning periods during the first 7 to 14 days of practice to minimize the risk of injury during this transition period from off-season to in-season activity. Research indicates introducing new conditioning activities gradually reduces the risk of injury and allows for proper physiologic adjustment for competitive athletes. Using excessive conditioning and exercise as punishment is dangerous and is restricted for the safety of all athletes. Even once acclimatization has occurred, there is still a risk of heat-related illness in extreme conditions. 41.4 Definitions. 41.4.1 Voluntary Conditioning. Voluntary conditioning is defined as any conditioning (i.e., running, weightlifting, warm-up, stretching, or cool-down) that occurs outside the season as defined in Policies 20 and 21. 41.4.2 Official Practice. An official practice is defined as one continuous period of time in which a participant engages in physical activity. Each practice shall be no more than three (3) hours in length and consist of no more than 90 minutes of intense exercise. Warm-up, stretching, and cool-down activities are to be included as part of the official practice time. All conditioning and/ or weight room activities shall be considered part of the official practice beginning on the first calendar day of official sport season. 41.4.2.1 Should restrictions apply, restrictions can be lifted as environmental conditions improve, and when approved by healthcare personnel, provided the total time of the practice does not exceed three (3) hours. (See Policy 41.8.2) 41.4.3 Acclimatization Period. The acclimatization period is defined as the first 14 calendar days of a student-athletes’ participation, beginning with the first allowable date of practice in that sport or the first day an athlete begins official practice, whichever is later. All FHSAA sports are included in this policy. All student-athletes, including those who arrive to preseason practice after the first official day of practice, must adhere to the safety precautions afforded by this acclimatization policy. This period does not restrict an athletes’ availability to participate in a contest , except football and cross country as noted below, but does restrict the number of total hours an athlete can participate on a daily and weekly basis regardless of contest or practice . 41.4.4 Walk-Through. A walk-through is an additional teaching/learning opportunity for student-athletes and coaches with no protective equipment (i.e., helmets, shoulder pads, shin guards) or equipment related to a given sport (i.e., footballs, blocking sleds, pitching machine, soccer balls, etc.). The duration of any walk-through must not exceed one (1) hour in length. A walk-through shall not include conditioning or weight room activities. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 109 Revised February 20, 2025 41.4.5 Recovery Period. A recovery period is the time between the end of one practice or walk-through and the beginning of the next practice or walk-through. Physical activity is restricted during this time (i.e., speed, strength, conditioning, or agility drills). Walk-throughs are prohibited during a recovery period.

41.5.1 Prior to participation in any preseason practice activities, all student-athletes shall undergo a Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation (see Bylaw 9.7, Form EL 2) administered as required by state law. 41.5.2 The student and parent or legal guardian, duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction, must submit release forms provided by the association (Form EL3 – Consent and Release from Liability Certificate). 41.5.3 During the first seven days of an athlete’s participation, the participants shall not engage in more than one practice per day. 41.5.4 If a practice session is interrupted by inclement weather or heat restrictions, the session shall be divided for the good of the student-athlete’s welfare as long as the combined total practice time for that session does not exceed three (3) hours. The addition of a walk-through session in this situation is acceptable provided it is added because of a weather-related disruption and occurs inside an air-conditioned facility. To allow for acclimatization, approximately two (2) hours of activity in the heat would be considered a practice day. 41.5.5 Competition is counted as three (3) hours. An official practice is not permitted on the same day of a competition. 41.5.6 A walk-through is permitted during Days 1 – 6 of the acclimatization period. A three (3) hour recovery period shall occur between the end of practice and the start of the walk-through or vice-versa. 41.5.7 Football only (including spring): Due to the protective equipment required in football, these additional procedures apply: the first two (2) days of practice are restricted to helmets only, days 3-5 can introduce shoulder-pads with shorts and then beginning day six (6) of practice, full gear can be utilized, and body-to-body contact is permitted. Student-athletes who begin practice with a team after the start of official practice shall follow this same 6-day procedure. During the initial five (5) days, the use of arm shields, tackling and blocking dummies, sleds and other devices can be used for instructional purposes, however, deliberate body-to-body contact is prohibited. Participation in a padded contact summer camp does not waive the provisions of the acclimatization procedures. 41.5.8 Football athletes shall not participate in a contest until completion of the 6 practice sessions as listed above. 41.5.9 Cross country athletes shall participate in a minimum of 10 practice sessions on 10 separate days prior to the first contest. It is strongly recommeneded that line-of-sight supervision is provided for cross country runners during the acclimatization process. 41.5. 10 Beginning Day 8, the practice schedule shall not exceed a 2-1-2-1 format. This means that a day consisting of two practices should be followed by a day with only one practice. On a day consisting of two practices, the two practices shall be separated by at least three (3) hours of continuous rest. One walk-through session may be added to a day with a single practice session, with a minimum of three (3) hours of continuous rest time between the practice and walk-through. If a two-practice day were followed by a day off, a two-practice day would be permitted on the next day. 41.5. 11 On days when two practices are conducted, neither practice shall exceed three (3) hours in length and student-athletes not participate in more than five (5) total hours of practice activities on these days, Warm-up, stretching, and cool-down activities are included as part of the official practice time. Practices must be separated with at least three (3) continuous hours of recovery time between the end of the first practice and the beginning of the very next practice. A walk-though is not permitted on days that have two (2) official practices. Weekly practice time shall not exceed twenty-four (24) hours for days 8-14. 41.5. 12 On days when a single practice is conducted, practices shall not exceed three (3) hours in length. A walk-through is permitted after a minimum three (3) hour recovery period between the end of the first practice and the walk-through, or vice-versa. 41.5. 13 Any voluntary conditioning session is subject to §1006.165, F.S. and is limited to three (3) hours maximum per session and these sessions should include the safeguards listed within FHSAA Policies 40, 41, 42, and 43 . 41.6 Monitoring Environmental Conditions . 41.6.1 §1006.165, F.S. requires the FHSAA to establish guidelines for monitoring heat stress and identify heat stress levels at which a school shall make a cooling zone available for each outdoor athletic contest, practice, workout, or conditioning session. These requirements establish regulations that dictate modifications in activity (i.e., work/rest ratios, hydration breaks, equipment worn, length of practice, etc.) at given Wet Bulb Globe Thermometer (WBGT) readings. These proactive provisions play a huge factor in helping to prevent exertional heat illness including exertional heat stroke (EHS). 41.6. 2 Each member school shall monitor heat stress with a WBGT . Heat stress is determined by measuring the ambient temperature, humidity, wind speed, sun angle and cloud cover at the site of the athletic activity. 41.6.3 A WBGT device is a measurement tool that uses ambient temperature, relative humidity, wind, and solar radiation from the sun to get a measurement that can be used to monitor environmental conditions (heat stress) during exercise. A WBGT device will have a black globe on the device. It is also recommended that your devices have a fan so that wind speed can be accurately registered. 41.6.4 Off-Campus Activities. All off-campus athletic activities are included in this policy. P 41 EXERTIONAL HEAT ILLNESS 110 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 41.6.5 Indoor Activities. Member schools shall be aware of indoor environmental conditions that become dangerous especially without climate control or climate control systems that are not functioning properly. In these cases, prudent safety decision-making shall be managed by the school principal or his/her designee.

42.1.1 Requirement for Coaches and Student Athletes. All FHSAA member school head coaches and paid/ supplemented coaches and student athletes are required to annually view the FREE NFHS online education course “Sudden Cardiac Arrest”. This free NFHS cardiac arrest course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. 42.1.2 Recommendation. All member school personnel, contest officials, parents and media are strongly encouraged to educate themselves by viewing the FREE NFHS online education course “Sudden Cardiac Arrest”. This free NFHS cardiac arrest course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. 42.2 Sudden Cardiac Arrest. Sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) is a condition in which the heart suddenly and unexpectedly stops beating. If this happens, blood stops flowing to the brain and other vital organs. SCA can cause death if it’s not treated within minutes. 42.2.1 Symptoms of sudden cardiac arrest include: 42.2.1.1 Sudden Collapse 42.2.1.2 No Pulse 42.2.1.3 No breathing 42.2.2 Warning Signs associated with sudden cardiac arrest include: 42.2.2.1 Fainting during exercise or activity 42.2.2.2 Shortness of breath 42.2.2.3 Racing heart rate 42.2.2.4 Dizziness 42.2.2.5 Chest pains 42.2.2.6 Extreme fatigue P 42 SUDDEN CARDIAC ARREST 114 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 42.2.3 Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). Paid coaches are required to hold and maintain a certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, and the use of an automatic external defibrillator (AED). The certification shall be consistent with national, evidence-based cardiovascular care guidelines. A course completion card or certificate issued by the American Heart Association or the American Red Cross or an equivalent cardiopulmonary resuscitation course completion card or certificate issued by an entity approved by the Florida Department of Health should be on file with the school to verify training. (§1012.55(2)(a), F.S.) 42.2.3.1 All program volunteers are strongly encouraged to hold and maintain a certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation, first aid, and the use of an automatic defibrillator (AED). The certification shall be consistent with national, evidence- based cardiovascular care guidelines. 42.2.3.2 Automatic External Defibrillator (AED). Each member school shall have an operational AED on the school grounds (§1006.165, F.S.). AEDs must be available in a safe, clearly marked, publicized and accessible location for any athletic contest, practice, workout or conditioning session, including those conducted outside of the school year. 42.2.3.3 The location of each AED shall be registered with local emergency medical services (§1006.165, F.S.). 42.2.3.4 A school employee or volunteer with current training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of a defibrillator must be present at each athletic event during and outside of the school year, including practices, workouts and conditioning sessions. 42.2.4 What to do if your student-athlete collapses: 42.2.4.1 Call 911 42.2.4.2 Send for an AED 42.2.4.3 Begin compressions 42.2.4.4 Use AED when it becomes accessible 42.2.5 Sudden Cardiac Arrest Release Form. The student and parent or legal guardian, duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction, must submit the release form provided by the association (Form EL3 – Consent and Release from Liability Certificate). POLICY 43 EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS , HEALTHCARE SERVICES, AND STUDENT-ATHLETE SPORTS SAFETY FOR SCHOOLS AND PARENT(S)/GUARDIAN(S) The development and implementation of an Emergency Action Plan helps ensure the best care is provided in the event of an emergency. In the event of an emergency, the 911 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system should be activated as quickly as possible and provided with accurate information to ensure appropriate medical personnel are dispatched. 43.1 All member schools shall develop a site-specific Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for managing serious and/or potentially life-threatening injuries for each practice and event location used by member school student-athletes . 43.1.1 Member schools that utilize home contest and/or practice venues offsite, within public or private facilities, separate from the member school location, shall be required to work collaboratively with venue management to ensure policy compliance. 43.2 The EAPs shall be developed, coordinated, reviewed, and rehearsed at least once annually with local Emergency Medical Services (EMS), school public safety officials, on-site medical personnel, or school medical staff (team physicians and/ or athletic trainers) and school administrators. 43.3 A written copy of each EAP shall be on file with the Principal and/ or Athletic Director, shared with all athletic staff and key steps of the EAP shall be posted at each athletic venue. Each EAP shall be specific to the venue. 43.4 All emergency equipment, including the location of Auto External Defibrillators (AED), that are available onsite shall be listed on the EAP. Any employee or volunteer who is reasonably expected to respond to an injury or emergency shall have access to the AED. 43.5 The EAP shall identify key personnel and their responsibilities to carry out the plan of action with a designated chain of command. 43.5.1 Healthcare Personnel. Healthcare personnel is defined as qualified healthcare practitioners listed under §456.001, F.S., including those licensed under chapter 458 (MD), chapter 459 (DO), chapter 460 (DC), or §464.012, F.S. (ARPN) and chapter 468 (AT), who are in good standing with their regulatory board. Other adjunctive healthcare personnel may include emergency services personnel (EMS) regulated under §401.23, F.S. and lifeguards regulated under §514.071. F.S. Ideally, healthcare personnel that provide healthcare services to student-athletes, defined below, during athletic activities shall be trained and familiar with best practices for the prevention, care, and management of common sports-related injuries, illness, conditions, and emergency situations. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 115 Revised February 20, 2025 43.5.2 Non-Healthcare Personnel. Non-healthcare personnel (defined as any coach, staff member, or volunteer not licensed as a healthcare provider as defined in 43.5.1 above) shall be familiar with emergency action plans published by the school and work together with healthcare personnel and school administration to promote a safe athletic experience. 43.5.3 Healthcare Services. Healthcare services include proactive prevention, recognition, management, rehabilitation, emergency care, and emergency transport for injury, illness, or conditions. Healthcare services can also include sports safety education for parents, student-athletes, coaches, and other stakeholders. 43.5.4 Requirements for Healthcare Services. A member school is required to provide healthcare services for the safety of all students participating in athletic activities. For the purposes of providing healthcare services, sports will be categorized as follows: 43.5.4.1 Collision Sports. At a minimum, a healthcare provider, as defined above, shall be on-site for any contest. Ideally, personnel at contests should include an athletic trainer, volunteer physician, and paramedic or emergency medical technician. It is strongly recommended that a healthcare provider is on-site for all official practices that include a collision sport. §1006.165, F.S., requires a school employee or volunteer with current training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of an AED must be present at each athletic event during and outside of the school year, including athletic contests, practices, workouts, and conditioning sessions. 43.5.4.1.1 Collision sports include football, wrestling, and boys lacrosse. 43.5.4.2 Contact Sports. It is strongly recommended that a healthcare provider is on-site for all scheduled contests or practices that involve contact activities. Ideally, an athletic trainer licensed under §468, F.S., is on-site for all scheduled contests and official practices. §1006.165, F.S., requires a school employee or volunteer with current training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of an AED must be present at each athletic event during and outside of the school year, including athletic contests, practices, workouts, and conditioning sessions. 43.5.4.2.1 Contact sports include soccer, volleyball, beach volleyball, basketball, competitive cheer, baseball, softball, tennis, girls lacrosse, water polo, diving, weightlifting, and flag football. 43.5.4.3 Non-Contact Sports. It is recommended that a healthcare provider is on-site for all contests, official practices, or scrimmages that involve a non-contact sport. §1006.165, F.S., requires a school employee or volunteer with current training in cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of an AED must be present at each athletic event during and outside of the school year, including athletic contests, practices, workouts, and conditioning sessions. 43.5.4.3.1 Non-contact sports include cross country, bowling, golf, swimming, and track & field. 43.5.4.4 Water Sports. It is strongly recommended a lifeguard is present for all sanctioned contests or official practices. This policy does not supersede any more restrictive policy set forth by any state, county, city, local, or venue specific requirement for safety or healthcare personnel. 43.6 The EAP shall contain appropriate contact information for the local and/or responding EMS personnel. 43.7 The EAP shall contain the athletic facility address, location, and contact information. 43.8 The EAP shall include documentation actions that need to be taken post emergency. 43.9 Each member school is required to make student-athlete safety education available to parent(s)/guardian(s). The FHSAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) will make available student-athlete safety reference materials. POLICY 44 LICENSING AND ROYALTIES

The name, emblem, and logos of the FHSAA are registered service marks under the laws of the State of Florida and will be protected from unlawful use for the benefit of the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA). By virtue of its membership in this Association, each school will be an authorized agent of the FHSAA with respect to use of any or all service marks subject to the terms and conditions of this “Licensing and Royalty Policy.”

44.3.1 Member schools are encouraged and licensed to use the FHSAA name, acronym, emblem, logos and service marks on programs and event merchandise in connection with sanctioned interscholastic events only, as set forth herein. A royalty will be due or owed to the FHSAA for any use of the FHSAA name, acronym, emblem, logos, trademarks, and service marks for any item sold or distributed by a member school or outside vendor at or in connection with any such activity during the regular sports season when any official marks or logos are used. Required use during Florida High School State Championship Series events is set forth separately in this policy. 44.3.2 Member schools may not authorize any other individual or entity to use any FHSAA name, acronym, emblem, logo, or service mark without the prior writ-ten approval of the FHSAA. 44.3.3 Member schools may contract only with those outside vendors who are licensed by the FHSAA to produce event merchandise on which the FHSAA name, emblem and/or logos are displayed. It will be the responsibility of the member schools to refer outside vendors wishing to become licensed to the FHSAA. The FHSAA will prepare and distribute to member schools a listing of such licensed vendors, on a regular basis. The annual licensing fee shall be determined at the discretion of the Executive Director. 44.3.4 Any use of the FHSAA name, acronym, emblem, logos, or service marks not otherwise specifically stated in this policy, will obligate either the member school or outside vendor doing business with the member school, to remit to the FHSAA, a royalty fee determined at the discretion of the Executive Director. 44.3.5 Any other use of the FHSAA name, acronym, emblem, logos, or service marks, such as on team patches, shirts, sweatshirts, hats, jackets, towels, artifacts or otherwise, requires the prior written approval of the FHSAA, on terms specified by the FHSAA at its discretion. 44.3.6 Print, radio and television media may use the FHSAA name, emblem, and logos as part of their coverage of FHSAA events and/or in any publication, slide, videotape, brochure, pamphlet, advertisement, commercial, etc., relating to coverage of the FHSAA. Permission from the FHSAA is not required and the terms of this “Licensing and Royalty Policy” do not apply. However, the use of any of the official marks in/on any merchandise created and/or distributed in connection with coverage of and/or sale of promotional use is subject to this “Licensing and Royalty Policy.” 44.3.7 The enforcement of this policy will be the responsibility of each member school in conjunction with the FHSAA. The collection of the revenue required pursuant to this policy will be the responsibility of the FHSAA via the member school or outside vendor, depending upon who is responsible for arranging for the actual production or distribution of any merchandise for the event. 44.3.8 A member school which contracts with an outside vendor not licensed by the FHSAA to produce merchandise and otherwise in which the FHSAA official marks are displayed, for sale or distribution, at regular season events, will be in violation of this policy and will be assessed a minimum monetary penalty of $250 and/or other sanctions plus additional monetary damages for lost royalties, to be determined at the discretion of the Executive Director.

44.4.1 The Florida High School State Championship Series Logo must be conspicuously displayed on all t-shirts, other merchandise, and/or printed materials or otherwise produced and/or distributed in connection with any Florida High School State Championship Series event. Florida High School State Championship Series events include, but are not limited to, all contests, games, meets, or other events conducted by or under the auspices of the FHSAA on the district, regional, state semifinal and FHSAA State Championship levels. Merchandise includes, but not limited to, caps, hats, golf shirts, rugby shirts, sweatshirts, muscle shirts, key chains, car tags, bumper stickers, pennants, banners, cups, mugs, posters, and similar items. Printed materials are considered to include, but not limited to, programs, heat sheets, bracket sheets, scorecards, placards, promotional posters, flyers, advertisements, billboards, and similar items. 44.4.2 The FHSAA will enter into an agreement with one (1) or more vendor(s) to exclusively produce the official merchandise, including t-shirts, for all Florida High School State Championship Series events on the district, regional, state semifinal and state championship levels. The exclusive vendor(s) of Florida High School State Championship Series event merchandise shall be subject to the Terms and Conditions of the contract between the FHSAA and the vendor. A member school or organization that serves as host for any Florida High School State Championship Series event and wishes to sell souvenir merchandise specific to that event, shall be required to purchase such souvenir merchandise from the exclusive vendor(s). Should the exclusive vendor(s) of the FHSAA elect to come to the site of any Florida High School State Championship Series event and sell such souvenir merchandise directly to the participants and general public at the event, the host school/organization for the event shall be required to grant to the exclusive vendor(s) ingress to and egress from the facility in which the event is to be conducted, as well as space in the facility in which to set up a booth(s) from which to sell the souvenir merchandise. The FHSAA will retain complete control over the design of merchandise to be produced for sale at Florida High School State Championship Series events. In either case, the minimum royalty fee to be paid to the FHSAA is at the discretion of the Executive Director. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 117 Revised February 20, 2025 P 45 MEDIA CREDENTIALS FOR STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES 44.4.3 No individual(s), including those affiliated with a participating member school, shall bring onto the property of a facility at which a Florida High School State Championship Series event is being conducted, any items (including, but not limited to, t-shirts, caps, posters, bumper stickers, etc.) to be sold or otherwise distributed on the property to student-athletes, coaches, or spectators, without the written approval of the FHSAA. An individual(s) found in violation of this provision shall surrender the items for confiscation, shall be expelled from the property and may be subject to legal action. A member school found in violation of this provision shall be assessed a minimum monetary penalty of $250 and/or other sanctions and additional monetary damages for lost royalties to be determined at the discretion of the Executive Director. POLICY 45 MEDIA CREDENTIALS FOR FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES EVENTS The FHSAA only issues credentials for the Florida High School State Championships. Host schools are responsible for issuing credentials at the district, regional and applicable state semifinal levels when not held in conjunction with the FHSAA State Championships. Media outlets must be vetted in advance by the host before being issued credentials and must provide credible media identification upon arrival at the venue. Authorized working personnel employed by an outlet which has been approved to broadcast a Florida High School State Championship Series contest must be admitted to the facility without charge upon presentation of proper identification and a signed AT11 Form (FHSAA approved media rights agreement). State series hosts must notify the FHSAA seven (7) days before the start of postseason play if they have banned any broadcasting outlets from their campus. 45.1 Making a Request. Requests for media credentials for each Florida High School State Championship Series state championship event must be made online via the FHSAA media site by the deadline established for the event. The online form must be completed in its entirety, submitted by the requestor, and approved by the FHSAA for admittance to Florida High School State Championship events, in all sports except, tennis and golf. It is the responsibility of the individual to confirm that his or her request has been received and approved by the FHSAA. Requests may only be made by an editor/manager of a news outlet or publication, or an owner/operator of an Internet site. 45.2 School-based Media. Credential requests from a member school for the Florida High School State Championships must be submitted by the Athletic Director. Credentials will be limited to three (3). One (1) for an active student reporter, one (1) for an active student photographer and one (1) for a school faculty member to serve in a supervisory capacity over the students. Credentials will be issued for yearbook and reporting purposes only. 45.2.1 Member school photographers will not be permitted. The official photographer of the FHSAA will provide a maximum of five (5) complimentary professional photographs to any requesting school from the Florida High School State Championship event in which the member school is competing. All photo requests must be submitted to media@fhsaa.org, not less than 72 hours prior to the start of the event. These photos are only to be used in the member school’s publications (yearbook, newspaper, newsletters) and corresponding internet platforms (websites, social media). Use of the provided images must include photo credit to the event photographer of the FHSAA. 45.2.1.1 Exception. If the Florida High School State Championship event does not have an official photographer, the Athletic Director may submit one (1) additional credential request for a member school photographer. 45.2.2 A school’s videographer will not be credentialed and should be placed on the team pass list should the head coach and/or administration deem their role necessary. 118 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 46 MONETARY PENALTIES AND ADMINISTRATIVE FEES

The following monetary penalties are generally assessed member schools for the most common rules violations. This schedule is not all inclusive and does require the Executive Director to determine monetary penalties for violations not specifically covered herein. In all cases, these amounts are minimums and may be increased relative to the severity of the violation. The following chart is for reference only. When a conflict in language occurs the policies or administrative procedures will take precedence. # Minimum Description of Violation and Reference Amount 46.1.1 General failure to comply with FHSAA Policies or Administrative Procedures (Policies and Administrative Procedures Preambles) .............................................................................................................................................. $100.00 46.1.2 Permitting a student-athlete to compete in an interscholastic contest prior to his/her name being submitted to the FHSAA on a sport eligibility roster (Policy 11.1.1.1) .......................................................................................... $50.00 46.1.3 Failure to contract with sanctioned local officials associations for registered officials at all interscholastic home contests (Policy 4.1.4.1.1) ............................................................................................................................... $100.00 46.1.4 Failure to attend a required Compliance Seminar (Policy 5.1.10) ........................................................................... $250.00 46.1.5 Violation of Pitch Count Regulations (Policy 6.1.3.3.1.1) ....................................................................................... $500.00 46.1.6 Violation of the Sanctioning Policy (Policy 7.5) ...................................................................................................... $100.00 46.1.7 Failure of a team or student-athlete who has qualified to advance in the Florida High School State Championship Series to participate at the next level (Policy 10.4.1 and 10.4.2) ................................................................. $250.00/$50.00 46.1.8 Failure to submit an Official Roster (Policy 11.1) .................................................................................................... $250.00 46.1.9 Improper use of a Florida High School State Championship Series Pass (Policy 15.1.4.9) .................................... $100.00 46.1.10 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL2 form (Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Form, see Bylaw 9.7), per student (Policy 16.11.1, 17.4.1, 35.2.11.1.1) ............................................... $500.00 46.1.11 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL3 form (Consent and Release from Liability Certificate, see Bylaw 9.8), per student (Policy 16.11.2, 17.4.2, 35.2.11.1.2) ........................................... $500.00 46.1.12 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed GA4 form (Affidavit of Compliance with Policy on Athletic Recruiting), per student (Policy 16.11.3, 17.4.3, 35.2.11.1.3) ............................................ $100.00 46.1.13 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without registering a Non-Traditional Student (see Policy 16.7), per student (Policy 16.11.4) ......................................................................................................... $100.00 46.1.14 Use of an ineligible student when not self-reported, per contest (Policy 16.11.5) ................................................ $2,500.00 46.1.15 Use of an ineligible student when self-reported, per contest (Policy 16.11.6) ......................................................... $100.00 46.1.16 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed and approved EL4 form (Registration Form for Youth Exchange, Other International or Immigrant Student), per student (Policy 17.4.4) ....................... $100.00 46.1.17 Conduct of an illegal practice session or illegal practice contest (Policy 6.1.1.3 and 18.1.3) ................................. $250.00 46.1.18 Conduct of an illegal scrimmage (Policy 18.4.3) ..................................................................................................... $250.00 46.1.19 Violation of the Off-Season Conditioning Policy, per violation (Policy 21.9.1) ................................................... $2,500.00 46.1.20 Violation of the Non-School Teams and Off-Season Participation Policy, per violation (Policy 22.4.1) ............. $2,500.00 46.1.21 Violation of the Open Facilities Policy, per violation (Policy 23.2.1) ................................................................... $2,500.00 46.1.22 Violation of the Coaching School, Camps, Clinics, Workshops by Member Schools Policy, per violation (Policy 24.2.1) ....................................................................................................................................................... $2,500.00 46.1.23 Violation of the participation by student-athletes and teams in Coaching School, Camps, Clinics, Workshops Policy, per violation (Policy 25.3.1) ...................................................................................................................... $2,500.00 46.1.24 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason jamboree or preseason classic with reimbursement to each affected school and the FHSAA (Policy 25.3.3) ....................................................................................................... $500.00 46.1.25 Storming the playing field, court, or pool by spectators and students at the conclusion of an athletic contest, indoor events (Policy 30.1.2.1) ................................................................................................................................. $250.00 46.1.26 Storming the playing field, court, or pool by spectators and students at the conclusion of an athletic contest, outdoor events (Policy 30.1.2.1) ............................................................................................................................... $500.00 46.1.27 Removal by coach or school personnel of a team or individual from an athletic contest prior to its normal conclusion (Policy 30.1.2.2) ..................................................................................................................................... $250.00 46.1.28 Vandalism by a team, student -athlete, or school personnel (Policy 30.1.2.3) ....................................................... $250.00 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 119 Revised February 20, 2025 46.1.29 Suspension of a student-athlete for unsportsmanlike conduct, beginning with fourth incident during a sports season, per suspension (Policy 30.2.2.1) .................................................................................................................. $100.00 46.1.30 Suspension of a student-athlete at the Level 2 Suspension level for unsportsmanlike conduct, beginning with second incident during a school year, per occurrence (Policy 30.2.2.2) .................................................................. $250.00 46.1.31 Participation by one or more student-athletes in an altercation by leaving the bench in and entering the court or playing field (i.e., bench-emptying) or by leaving their designated position on the court or playing field, per student (Policy 30.2.2.3) ........................................................................................................................................... $100.00 46.1.32 Suspension of a coach for unsportsmanlike conduct (Policy 30.3.2.1) .................................................................... $100.00 46.1.33 Use or profanity or other such gutter language or gestures by a coach, per occurrence (Policy 30.3.2.1) .............. $150.00 46.1.34 Coach continuing to give instruction to his/her student-athletes or other members of the coaching staff after having been ejected from a contest (Policy 30.3.2.1) ............................................................................................... $100.00 46.1.35 Pursuit of officials with intent following a contest by coach or other school personnel (Policy 30.3.2.1) .............. $150.00 46.1.36 Refusal of an ejected coach to leave the court, playing field or team area (Policy 30.3.2.1) ................................... $100.00 46.1.37 Physical contact by coach or other school personnel with an official (Policy 30.3.2.1) .......................................... $250.00 46.1.38 Premature termination of a contest by an official due to unsportsmanlike conduct by student-athletes, coaches, other school personnel spectators in attendance (Policy 30.3.2.1) ........................................................................... $250.00 46.1.39 Statements of criticism or other derogatory remarks concerning officials which are made by coaches or other school personnel and appear in the news media (Policy 30.4) ................................................................................... $50.00 46.1.40 Use of alcohol, tobacco or tobacco-like products (Policy 31.1) ............................................................................... $100.00 46.1.41 Violation of the photographing, filming and videotaping policy during the Florida High School State Championships (Policy 34.4.1) ................................................................................................................................. $100.00 46.1.42 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.10.1) without a submitted GA4 form (Affidavit of Compliance with Policy on Athletic Recruiting), per student (Policy 36.4.2) .............................................................................. $100.00 46.1.43 Violation of the Policy on “Athletic Recruiting” which results in the successful recruitment of a student-athlete (Policy 36.5.3.2 and Policy 37.3.3.2) .................................................................................................................... $2,500.00 46.1.44 Violation of the Policy on “Financial Assistance” (Policy 38.2.1.2) ..................................................................... $2 , 500.00 46.1.45 Violation of the Licensing Policy during the regular season (Policy 44.3.8) .................................... $250.00 plus damages 46.1.46 Violation of the Licensing Policy during the Florida High School State Championship Series (Policy 44.4.3) ................................................................................................................................... $250.00 plus damages 46.1.47 Unauthorized broadcast of a Florida High School State Championship Series event (Administrative Procedure 3.11.1.9) ..................................................................................................... $50.00 per broadcast plus rights fees 46.1.48 Failure to upload required media information form for the Florida High School State Championship Series by specified deadline (Administrative Procedure 3.9.2) ........................................................................................... $300.00 46.1.49 Failure to submit team photo by specified deadline, if team advances to Florida High School State Championship Series (Administrative Procedure 3.9.3) ................................................................................................................... $300.00 46.1.50 Failure to upload up-to-date stats and roster (jersey numbers included) to the FHSAA’s official scores and statistics provider by specified deadline (Administrative Procedure 3.9.1) ........................................................... $100.00 per round 46.1.51 Violation of the “Exchange of Game Films” Administrative Procedure during the football Florida High School State Championships (Administrative Procedure 4.7.2.5.2) ..................................................................................... $250.00 P 46 MONETARY PENALTIES AND ADMINISTRATIVE FEES 120 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

The following administrative fees are generally assessed member schools for failure to file necessary forms or other paperwork by the appropriate deadline, of for other administrative services. This schedule is not all inclusive and does require the Executive Director to determine administrative fees for services not specifically covered herein. In all cases, these amounts are minimums and may be increased relative to the level of service. The following chart is for reference only. When a conflict in language occurs the policies or administrative procedures will take precedence. # Minimum Description of Violation and Reference Amount 46.2.1 Late filing of an Application for Sanction (Form AT2) (Policy 7.2.1) ...................................................................... $50.00 46.2.2 Application fee for first time membership (Policy 9.2.2.1) ....................................................... $60.00 (MS) $150.00 (HS) 46.2.3 Re-admission of former members school (Policy 9.2.3) ........................................................... $75.00 (MS) $250.00 (HS) 46.2.4 Reactivation fee for suspended member school (Policy 9.2.3) ................................................. $50.00 (MS) $125.00 (HS) 46.2.5 Administrative fee for preseason events and preseason jamborees and/or classic tournaments in baseball, basketball, soccer and softball (Policy 9.5.1.1) ....................................................................................................... $100.00 46.2.6 Administrative fee for preseason events and preseason jamborees and/or classic tournaments in girls volleyball and wrestling (Policy 9.5.1.2) ................................................................................................................... $75.00 46.2.7 Administrative fee for preseason events and preseason jamborees and/or classic tournaments in boys weightlifting, cross country, swimming & diving and track & field (Policy 9.5.1.3) ............................................... $50.00 46.2.8 Administrative fee for Spring Football Jamborees (Policy 9.9.1.1) .......................................................... $100.00-$600.00 46.2.9 Administrative fee for Preseason Football Jamborees (Policy 9.9.1.1) .................................................. $100.00-$1,150.00 46.2.10 Late filing or payment of Form FB3 or FN2 (Policy 9.9.1.1-9.10.2) ........................................................................ $50.00 46.2.11 Late filing fee for cancelled sanctioned event without notification to FHSAA (Policy 9.9.1.1 and 9.12.4) ............. $50.00 46.2.12 Joining the Florida High School State Championship Series after the commitment process (Policy 10.2.1(b))......$250.00 46.2.13 Withdrawal from Florida High School State Championship Series Commitment after the second week of the sport season (Policy 10.2) ....................................................................................................................................... $100.00 46.2.14 Late submittal of the Member School Athletic Personnel List/FHSAA Identification Card Order Form by the deadline on form (Administrative Procedure 2.9.1) .................................................................................................. $50.00 46.2.15 Failure to report the results of a Florida High School State Championship Series event (Administrative Procedure 3.5) ................................................................................................................................. $50.00 46.2.16 Failure to report the results arrangements for the next level Florida High School State Championship Series event (Administrative Procedure 3.5) ........................................................................................................................ $50.00 46.2.17 Failure to submit Adapted Track and Field Athlete Declaration Form by deadline (Administrative Procedure 4.14.1.2.2 (g)) ......................................................................................................................................... $250.00

5.2.1 Action. The Representative Assembly shall consider, adopt, or reject any recommended proposed amendments to these Bylaws. The Representative Assembly may not, in and of itself, as a body be allowed to propose any amendment for its own consideration. Any revision to a proposed amendment by the Representative Assembly shall require the written authorization of its original sponsor(s). Such revisions shall require a majority of the votes cast by delegates present at the Assembly. 5.2.2 Passage. A two-thirds majority of the votes cast by delegates present is required for passage of any proposal. A vote on the final passage of any proposal shall be by roll call or signed ballot with the vote cast by each delegate reported to the member schools. Once a proposal has been considered, the Representative Assembly will make legislative recommendations to the Board of Directors. Approval of such recommendations requires a majority vote of the Board of Directors.

5.3.1 Accreditation for purposes of membership will be accepted from any of the following agencies: (a) Association of Christian Schools International; (b) Association of Christian Teachers and Schools; (c) Association of Independent Schools of Florida; (d) Christian Schools of Florida; (e) Church of God Association of Christian Schools; (f) Cognia; (g) Council of Bilingual Schools; (h) Episcopal Diocese of Florida; 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 51 Revised February 20, 2025 P 6 SPORT SEASON LIMITATIONS (i) Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools; (j) Florida Catholic Conference; (k) Florida Coalition of Christian Private Schools; (l) Florida Conference of Seventh Day Adventist Schools; (m) Florida Council of Independent Schools; (n) Florida League of Christian Schools; (o) Lutheran Schools Florida-Georgia District; (p) National Independent Private School Association;

6.3.1 General Principle. Recruitment or attempted recruitment of students for athletic purposes is an act of unsportsmanlike conduct and is expressly forbidden. 6.3.2 Definition of Recruiting. Recruiting is the use of undue influence or special inducement by anyone associated with the school in an attempt to encourage a prospective student to attend or remain at that school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. 6.3.2.1 “Undue Influence and Special Inducement” Defined. The Board of Directors shall establish and maintain a policy which defines undue influence and special inducement; lists examples of violations; establishes penalties; and regulates academic recruitment and financial aid programs. Refer to Policy on Athletic Recruiting for details. 6.3.3 Liability for Recruitment. A member school is responsible for any violation of this bylaw and/or the recruiting policies committed by any person associated with the school, including the principal, assistant principals, athletic director, coaches, teachers, any other staff members or employees, students, parents, or any organizations having connection to the school, such as booster clubs. The member school is also responsible for a violation committed by any third party under the direction of the school, or anyone associated with it. OPERATIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 7 Sportsmanship

7.1.2.1 A member school is considered a host when it organizes, produces, and manages the event on campus or through rights to use an off-campus facility and provides all event staff, officials, ticket sales, insurance, concessions, and parking. In addition, the Host would retain all event revenue. 7.1.2.2 Colleges, Universities, and/or Third-Party entities, including private corporations and non-profit organizations requesting to host events must enter into a contract directly with the FHSAA for sanction approval. 7.2 Sanction Process. 7.2.1 Application. Any athletic event hosted by an FHSAA member senior high school requiring sanction approval, as defined above in Policy 7.1, must be registered with FHSAA. The member school hosting the event is responsible for submitting an application for approval. Information reported on Form AT2 shall be submitted utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. The application for approval must be submitted not later than one day prior to the first day of the event to avoid a late application fee of $50. Administrative fees and payment deadlines for sanctioned events are listed in Policy 7.7.1, 9.5 and 9.9. 7.3 Interstate Sanctions. A member school which hosts an athletic event in which an out-of-state school is invited to participate may be required to submit to the NFHS an online application for “Sanction of Interstate Athletic Event”. NFHS procedures regarding application for sanction of interstate athletic events are available at NFHS.org. A member school is not required to submit an application for sanction (AT2) for this event to the FHSAA Office. 7.4 International Sanctions. A member school which hosts an athletic event or single athletic contest involving a team from another country or affiliate member of the NFHS must submit online NFHS application for “Sanction of International Event”. NFHS procedures regarding application for sanction of international athletic events are available at NFHS.org. A member school is not required to submit an application for sanction (AT2) for this event to the FHSAA Office. 7.4.1 Exception. Two (2) and three (3) school competitions with a school or schools from Canada or Mexico which are a member in good standing of associations that are members of NFHS or affiliate members of the NFHS and/or which necessitates a round trip of less than 600 miles are not required to submit the NFHS application. 7.5 Penalty for Violation of Sanction Policy. Unless otherwise stated in policy, a minimum financial penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions and probation, administrative and/or restrictive, may be assessed against any member school which violates any provision of this Sanction Policy.

7.2.1 “Unsportsmanlike Conduct” Defined. A student who commits an act of malicious and hateful nature toward a contest official, an opponent or any other person attending an athletic contest shall be guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct. Such acts may include, but are not limited to, profanity, striking or threatening a contest official; physical contact with an opponent which is beyond the normal scope of competition; spitting on a contest official or opponent; directing sex , racial or ethnic slurs toward a contest official, an opponent or any other person attending an athletic contest; or other such acts deemed to be unacceptable conduct according to the principal of the member school the student attends or this Association. 7.2.1.1 Penalty for Students. Students who are found to have committed unsportsmanlike conduct will be ineligible to participate in interscholastic athletic competition for a penalty period up to one or more calendar years. 7.2.1.2 Restoring Eligibility. The Executive Director, the Sectional Appeals Committee, or the Board of Directors on appeal, may restore the student’s eligibility prior to the end of the penalty period, when in the discretion of the Executive Director, the student has been properly disciplined, and the student signs a written statement of his/her intention to comply with these standards in the future. 7.2.2 Executive Director’s Powers. The Executive Director shall have full authority to investigate allegations and incidents of unsportsmanlike conduct and invoke penalties against member schools or individuals involved. 7.2.3 Disqualifications. The disqualification from participation of a coach or student, or removal of a spectator or other representative of a member school due to unsportsmanlike conduct during an interscholastic event will subject the school to the appropriate penalties. 7.2.4 Removal by Coach or Administrator. The removal of a team or individual competitor by a coach or administrator because of their dissatisfaction with contest officials or other conditions of the contest shall be considered unsportsmanlike conduct and will subject the school to the appropriate penalties. 7.2.5 Unsportsmanlike Conduct at Tournaments, Meets, or Contests. The Executive Director, in the event of unsportsmanlike conduct on the part of a representative of the member school during an athletic tournament, meet, or contest, shall have the authority to deny further participation at said tournament, meet, or contest, to such team or individual. 7.2.6 Unsportsmanlike Conduct – Human Growth Hormone, Steroids, Performance-Enhancing Drugs, or Schedule 3 Narcotics. The use of human growth hormone, steroids, performance-enhancing drugs, or schedule 3 narcotics by a student is considered to be an act of unsportsmanlike conduct, and as such the student shall be ineligible for competition until such time as medical evidence can be presented that the student’s system is free of human growth hormone, steroids, performance- enhancing drugs, or schedule 3 narcotics. 7.2.6.1 Any student-athlete under the care of a pediatric endocrinologist or an appropriately trained specialist being treated with idiopathic short stature (ISS) as outline by the United States Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) may appeal for exemption and shall provide appropriate medical documentation to the principal prior to competition. 7.2.6.2 Any student-athlete, under the direct care of a physician, who has been prescribed to use any hormone replacement drug shall provide the appropriate medical documentation to the principal prior to competition. 7.2.7 Crowd Control. Any member school whose principal commits unsportsmanlike conduct or whose principal fails to control the conduct of the student body, faculty, and spectators shall be subject to the appropriate penalties, which may include expulsion from membership in this Association. OPERATIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 8 Interscholastic Contests

7.7.1 Member schools serving as Host (as defined in Policy 7.1.2) for pre-season athletic or post-season athletic events where the event is broadcast live or delayed by a national television network (i.e., ESPN, ESPNU, Fox, TBS, etc.) must be approved by the FHSAA in advance of the event. Information reported on Form AT2 shall be submitted utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. A $2,000.00 administrative fee is due to the FHSAA within 30 days following the event, unless otherwise approved by the Executive Director. This policy applies only to national networks and does not apply to locally televised events. POLICY 8 MEMBER SCHOOL INSURANCE REQUIREMENTS All member school principals must certify on the membership application that all of the coverage referenced below has been obtained. Member schools must keep current certificates of required coverage on file and provide proof of required coverage to the FHSAA upon request. The Board of Directors has established the following requirements with regard to insurance coverage for member schools: 8.1 Athletic Medical Base Plan. Up to $25,000 limit is required for medical expenses for each participant in interscholastic athletics sponsored, supervised, and engaged by the school. The member school principal will be allowed to accept certification from parents that the coverage is in place for the student-athlete on a family plan that meets this requirement. If the student-athlete is not covered under his/her parents’ family plan, then the school must provide a plan for the student that will satisfy these requirements. The student may purchase this plan individually or the school may purchase a blanket plan for all members of its athletic teams. The principal must certify on the membership application that each student has the minimum coverage. 8.2 Accident Medical Expense and Catastrophe Cash Benefit Policy. A minimum limit of $1,000,000 for accident medical expense benefit is required for each participant in interscholastic athletics sponsored, supervised, and engaged in by the school. A minimum catastrophe cash benefit limit of $500,000 is required for total disability of any participant in interscholastic athletics sponsored, supervised, and engaged in by the school. Structured pay-out benefits may vary. This coverage is to be in excess of the athletic medical base plan policy limits or the policy can include the athletic medical base plan coverage within the policy. The policy must provide no fault coverage. 8.3 General Liability. A general liability plan with minimum limits of $200,000 per person and $300,000 per occurrence is required (§ 768.28, F.S.). Effective July 1, 2022, such general liability insurance must list FHSAA as an additional insured. 8.4 Status Change. In the event the status of a member school’s insurance changes from what has been certified by the principal on the school’s membership application, the FHSAA Representative of the member school must notify the FHSAA and all schools with which it is contracted, in writing, within 24 hours of the status change. 8.5 Suspension of Membership for Failure to Provide Insurance. Upon request, a member school will have three (3) business days to furnish official documentation showing the school is in compliance with the above insurance requirements. Failing to provide the requested proof of insurance upon request will result in immediate suspension of membership (reference Policy 5.4.1). POLICY 9 FINANCES

8.3.1 Eligible Contestants. Member schools may only engage in interscholastic contests with the following: (a) Schools which are members of this Association; (b) Florida schools which are not members of the FHSAA (Non-FHSAA member school), provided: 1. The non-FHSAA member school must verify that athletic medical, catastrophic accident and catastrophic disability insurance coverage is provided for each of its student athletes (Policy 8). The non-FHSAA member school must provide general liability insurance for itself (Policy 8). The minimum limits for each type of insurance coverage must be the same as those established for FHSAA member schools (Policy 8). The non-FHSAA member school principal, or head of school, must provide the member school with copies of certificates of coverage for each of these various insurance types, verifying that the non-FHSAA member school has purchased the insurance coverage required (Bylaw 3.5.3 and 3.6.1.1.2); and 2. An FHSAA game/contest contract (see Bylaw 8.4.1) has been fully executed by all participating schools; and 3. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, meet the eligibility criteria listed in Florida Statutes for student athletes of FHSAA member schools (§ 1006.15, F.S.); and 4. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, have appropriate insurance as specified in § 1006.16, F.S.; and 5. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, must satisfactorily pass a medical evaluation as specified in § 1006.20(2)(c), F.S., and 6. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, must have on file a signed consent and release form (waiver of liability and parent permission to participate) as specified in § 1006.20(2)(k), F.S., and 7. Non-FHSAA member schools must agree to abide by the NFHS and FHSAA rules for the contest or event being conducted (Bylaw 8.2.1). (c) Out-of-state schools which are members in good standing of associations that are members of the NFHS or affiliate members of the NFHS and regulate interscholastic athletics for schools within their state. They must follow comparable eligibility guidelines and the season for the sport involved must run concurrently with that of the Florida High School Athletic Association. (d) Out-of-State schools which are not members of the NFHS or affiliate members of the NFHS may be contracted by participating FHSAA member schools, provided: 1. An FHSAA game/contest contract (see Bylaw 8.4.1) has been fully executed by all participating schools; and 2. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, meet the eligibility criteria listed in Florida Statutes for student athletes of FHSAA member schools (§ 1006.15, F.S.) and FHSAA Bylaws; and 3. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, have appropriate insurance as specified in § 1006.16, F.S.; and 4. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, must satisfactorily pass a medical evaluation as specified in § 1006.20(2)(c), F.S., and 5. All student-athletes in the non-FHSAA member school, who will be competing in the contest or event, must have on file a signed consent and release form (waiver of liability and parent permission to participate) as specified in § 1006.20(2)(k), F.S., and 6. Non-FHSAA member schools must agree to abide by the NFHS and FHSAA rules for the contest or event being conducted (Bylaw 8.2.1), and 7. Multi-Team events and tournaments must meet the provision of Policy 7. (e) Member schools shall not participate in athletic contests or contractually obligate themselves to participate in any tournament, meet or contest in which any schools which do not meet these criteria are scheduled to participate, or with non-school teams, groups, or club teams. (f) Competition involving middle schools (grades 6-8), combination middle school programs (grades 6-8) and junior high schools (grades 7-9) must be between middle schools, combination middle school programs and junior high schools, respectively, as well as between middle schools and combination middle school programs.

8.4.1 General Principles. Contracts are required for all interscholastic athletic contests involving member schools and/ or non-FHSAA member Florida schools, excluding the Florida High School State Championship Series. The designated FHSAA Representative must execute such contracts. B 8 INTERSCHOLASTIC CONTESTS 22 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 8.4.1.1 Forms. In order to be valid, the contracts shall be executed utilizing the official Association process, as approved by the Executive Director. 8.4.1.2 Time Constraints. Member schools may not enter into a contract which purports to bind those schools for interscholastic athletic competition longer than three (3) years from the date on which it was executed. 8.4.1.3 Contract Terms. Details must be specific. Definite dates, sites, financial arrangements, process for selecting officials, and other items of interest to both parties should be specified, including if the contract is a multi-year home and home or home and away contract. All parties agree to have the appropriate limits of catastrophic and liability insurance coverage. 8.4.2 Cancellation of Contract. Contracts may be canceled by mutual consent any time at least seven (7) days prior to the event. 8.4.2.1 Disputed Cancellation . If the parties fail to reach agreement on contract cancellation, the matter will be referred to the Executive Director for adjudication. 8.4.2.1.1 Appealing of Decision. If the Executive Director’s decision is appealed, the decision of the Sectional Appeals Committee or Board of Directors shall be final. 8.4.2.1.2 Failure to Comply. Non-compliance with the final decision by either principal shall subject the school to a penalty, which may include expulsion. 8.4.2.2 Use of Ineligible Athletes. Contracts between member schools shall be subject to cancellation whenever either party proposes to allow the use of ineligible students. Member schools are prohibited from competing with schools which propose to use ineligible students. FHSAA member schools will be held accountable for complying with FHSAA bylaws, policies, rules and regulations, when competing with non-FHSAA member schools. 8.4.2.3 Suspended or Expelled Schools. When a member school is placed on suspension probation or expelled from membership, all contracts which the principal has executed shall be null and void. The contract may be renewed when the penalized school’s punishment has ended if those dates have not yet been filled. 8.4.3 Failure to Meet Contractual Obligations. Any school which does not fulfill the terms of any valid contract or enters into an invitational tournament and does not compete until elimination shall be subjected to a financial penalty at the discretion of the Executive Director.

9.1.1 Gross Receipts. All revenue derived from gate receipts and entry fees charged in conjunction with an athletic event. Gross receipts do not include revenue derived from food and beverage concessions, souvenir merchandise sales (except as stipulated in Policy 42, Licensing and Royalties), parking fees, corporate support or other contributions, or any other form of revenue. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 55 Revised February 20, 2025 P 9 FINANCES 9.1.2 Gate Receipts. All revenue derived from the sale of all forms of tickets (including advanced, reserved, general admission, etc.), passes or other forms of special admissions (i.e., day passes, event passes, tournament, etc.), and any and all other forms of paid admission to an athletic event. 9.1.3 Entry Fees. All revenue derived from any fees or other charges paid by any school and/or individual to participate in an athletic event. 9.1.4 Non-Tax Sources of Funds. All funding derived from sources that are not state or federal revenue or local derived tax dollars. Examples of non-tax sources include, but are not limited to internal activity funds, booster club funds, donations, corporate sponsorships, event sales of tickets, parking, concessions, or any other revenue generated from sales to the public. 9.1.5 Operating Fund Balance. To ensure the financial strength and stability of the general operations of the Association, the adopted budget shall include public acknowledgement of the planned ending fund balance, not classified as restricted, committed, or non-spendable, of not less than seventy-five percent (75%) and not more than one hundred and fifty percent (150%) of operating revenues. In the event the unreserved fund balance decreases to less than seventy-five percent (75%) or increases to more than one hundred and fifty percent (150%) of the Association’s general fund budget, the Executive Director shall prepare for Board of Director approval, a financial plan and timeline to restore the ending fund balance to the amount set forth herein.

9.1.1 Participation in Interscholastic Athletics a Privilege. Participation in interscholastic athletic programs by a student is a privilege, not a right. Students who participate are required to meet the requirements established in state law, FHSAA regulations, and by their respective schools. 9.1.1.1 Local Rules May Be More Stringent. Schools and /or school districts may adopt more stringent rules for the students under their supervision. No school or school district, however, may adopt rules that are less stringent than those of the FHSAA. 9.1.2 School Responsible to Ensure Student Eligibility. A school must not permit a student to represent it in interscholastic athletic competition unless the student meets all eligibility requirements, and the school has certified the student’s eligibility to the FHSAA Office utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. 9.1.2.1 Ineligible Student. An ineligible student shall not be allowed on the players’ bench, in the team box or on the field of play wearing any portion of a team uniform. 9.1.2.2 Falsification of Information. A student and/or parent/legal guardian appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction who falsifies any enrollment or eligibility document shall be declared ineligible to represent any member school for a period of one year from the date of discovery. 9.1.2.3 Eligibility of Recruited Students. A student may be declared ineligible based on violation of recruiting rules if (§ 1006.20(2)(b)4, F.S.): (a) The student or parent/legal guardian appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction has falsified any enrollment or eligibility document; or (b) The student or parent/legal guardian appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction accepted any benefit or any promise of benefit if such benefit is not generally available to the school’s students or family members; or (c) The student accepted any benefit if such benefit is not generally available to all of the school’s students or family members or is based in any way on athletic interest, potential, or performance. 9.1.3 Rationale for Eligibility Standards. Eligibility rules are necessary for participation in interscholastic athletics because: (a) They protect the opportunities of qualified students to participate; and (b) They promote competitive equity among schools; and (c) They encourage academic achievement by student-athletes.

Events 9.11.1 Football. When net profits after expenses allow, the FHSAA shall pay to each school an amount based upon its mileage from the site of the Florida High School State Championship Series as follows: $4,250 plus $5 per mile. Neither the FHSAA nor the host organization shall assume responsibility for any other team expenses of any kind except for those expenses specified above. When net profits after expenses do not allow for the payment of this schedule, participating teams shall divide 100 percent of the net profit based on their pro-rata share of the formula. In such cases, the FHSAA will not retain any share of the net profit. At no time shall participating schools be paid reimbursement for expenses when the Florida High School State Championship Series do not show a net profit after expenses. 9.11.2 Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball and Girls Volleyball. When net profits after expenses allow, the FHSAA shall pay to each school an amount as follows: $2,000 plus $2.50 per mile. Neither the FHSAA nor the host organization shall assume responsibility for any other team expenses of any kind except for those expenses specified above. When net profits after expenses do not allow for the payment of this schedule, participating teams shall divide 100 percent of the net profit based on their pro-rata share. In such cases, the FHSAA will not retain any share of the net profit. At no time shall participating schools be paid reimbursement for expenses when the Florida High School State Championship Series do not show a net profit after expenses.

9.4.1 2.0 GPA Required for Academic Eligibility. A middle/junior high student must have 2.0 GPA, or the equivalent of a 2.0 GPA based on a 4.0 scale, on the first day of each semester. A high school student must have a cumulative 2.0 grade point average on a 4.0 unweighted scale, or its equivalent, on the first day of each semester to be academically eligible during that semester (§ 1006.15(3)(a)1, F.S.). Final grades previously earned by the student from another school shall not be converted using the scale in Bylaw 9.4.2. 9.4.1.1 Courses to be Used in Calculating GPA. The grades from all courses that a student takes, including those high school level courses taken by the student before he/she begins high school, must be included in the calculation of the student’s unweighted cumulative GPA on the first day of each semester. For public school students, this includes the courses listed in § 1003.4282, F.S. 9.4.1.2 Academic Eligibility/Ineligibility is for a Semester. A student who is academically eligible at the beginning of a semester will continue to be academically eligible for that entire semester. Likewise, a student who is academically ineligible at the beginning of a semester will continue to be academically ineligible for that entire semester, except as provided in Bylaw 9.4.5.1.2. 9.4.1.3 Attendance During Previous Two Consecutive Semesters Required. A student cannot be academically eligible if he/she has not attended school and received grades for all courses taken during the previous two consecutive full semesters. 9.4.1.3.1 Exception. A student who begins the school year at a FHSAA member school, after completing the full school year in their former country coinciding with the end of the first semester of the FHSAA member school’s previous academic year, may be eligible. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 29 Revised February 20, 2025 9.4.1.4 Exception – First Semester Attendance. A first-year 6th grade student attending a middle school or combination school beginning with the 6th grade, a first-year 7th grade student attending a junior high school or combination school beginning with the 7th grade or any student, entering the ninth grade for the first time, is academically eligible during his/her first semester of middle school, junior high school, or high school attendance. The student, however, must meet the provisions of Bylaw 9.4.1 on the first day of his/her second semester of attendance to be academically eligible to participate during his/her next semester of attendance. 9.4.1.5 Academic Performance Contract. A student whose cumulative GPA falls below 2.0, or its equivalent, on a 4.0 scale in the courses required by § 1003.4282, F.S., must execute and fulfill the requirements of an Academic Performance Contract between the student, the school, and the student’s parent(s) or legal guardian(s) duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction, which at a minimum must require that the student attend summer school, or its graded equivalent (i.e. adult education, Florida Virtual School, etc.), between grades 9 and 10 or grades 10 and 11, as necessary. (§ 1006.15(3)(a)2, F.S.). 9.4.1.5.1 Students who qualify for an academic performance contract must have sat out of competition the full semester immediately following becoming academically ineligible, regardless of the level of participation (i.e., varsity, sub-varsity, middle school, etc.); during which time, or thereafter, the student must have entered into and fulfilled the requirements of the contract before participating in interscholastic competition the subsequent semester. 9.4.1.6 Using Semester GPA for Ninth and Tenth Grade. A student who is academically ineligible during the second semester of ninth grade (i.e., became ineligible based on his/her academic performance during the first semester of ninth grade) or during the first semester of tenth grade (i.e., became ineligible based on his/her academic performance during the second semester of ninth grade) and does not regain an unweighted cumulative 2.0 GPA by the first day of the next semester may be granted academic eligibility for the next semester if all of the following conditions are met: (a) The student signs an academic performance contract with his/her school as per Bylaw 9.4.1.5; and (b) The student sits out the semester of ineligibility; and (c) The student earns a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 unweighted scale in all courses taken during the semester of ineligibility. 9.4.1.7 No Exceptions During the 11th and 12th Grade. Once a student has completed 10th grade, he/she must have the unweighted cumulative 2.0 GPA as required by Bylaw 9.4.1 for the remainder of his/her high school career (§ 1006.15(3)(a)3, F.S.). 9.4.1.8 Students in Dual Enrollment or Early Admission Programs. Students who participate in dual enrollment programs or early admission programs must have the unweighted cumulative 2.0 GPA as required in Bylaw 9.4.1 to be academically eligible. 9.4.1.9 Student Not Eligible for One Full Semester if Transcript Cannot be Obtained. A student whose former school cannot or will not provide an official sealed transcript will not be eligible in the new school until he/she has been in attendance for one full semester and has established an unweighted cumulative GPA. The school must submit a written report to the FHSAA Office that includes the student’s name, date of first attendance in the school, and the beginning and ending dates of the previous semester. 9.4.2 Mandatory Grading Scale to be used in Calculating GPA. All member schools must use the following alphabetical grading scale as mandated in § 1003.437, F.S., when calculating the grade point averages of high school students to determine their academic eligibility: • Grade “A” is 90 to 100 percent and has a GPA value of 4; • Grade “B” is 80 to 89 percent and has a GPA value of 3; • Grade “C” is 70 to 79 percent and has a GPA value of 2; • Grade “D” is 60 to 69 percent and has a GPA value of 1; and • Grade “F” is 59 percent or less and has a GPA value of 0. 9.4.2.1 Incomplete Grade is a Failure. An incomplete grade must be counted as a failure (Grade “F”) when calculating a student’s unweighted cumulative GPA. 9.4.3 Effect of Summer School or its Graded Equivalent Courses on Unweighted Cumulative GPA. A student may raise or lower his/her unweighted cumulative GPA by attending summer school or its graded equivalent if: (a) The summer school or its graded equivalent is regularly scheduled and regularly organized under the direction of a district school board or private school; (b) All coursework taken by the student is completed before the first day of classes in the subsequent semester; and (c) All courses taken by the student, in which he/she receives a grade, whether during the regular academic year or summer school, or its graded equivalent, must be used to calculate the student’s unweighted cumulative GPA. 9.4.3.1 “Forgiveness.” If a student repeats a course, regardless of whether he/she passed or failed the course on the first attempt in which the student earned a “D” or “F,” or the equivalent of a grade of “D” or “F,” the grade may be replaced with a grade of “C” or higher, or the equivalent of a grade of “C” or higher, provided for required courses the course is the same or comparable course, or with a grade of “C” or higher, or the equivalent of a grade of “C” or higher for an elective course and that grade will be used to calculate the student’s unweighted cumulative GPA (§ 1003.4282(5), note, F.S.). B 9 STUDENT ELIGIBILITY 30 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.4.3.1.1 Grade GPA Calculation. For the purposes of GPA calculation, each subsequent unsuccessful attempt on a course taken for forgiveness will not be computed in the calculations. One successful attempt will overwrite the original grade and all previous unsuccessful attempts. 9.4.3.2 Course Taught by Private Tutor Cannot be Used to Raise GPA. A school cannot accept a grade received by a student in a class conducted by a private certified tutor to raise his/her unweighted cumulative GPA for academic eligibility purposes. 9.4.4 Determination of Academic Eligibility on First Day of Each Semester. A school must calculate the unweighted cumulative GPA of a student on the first day of each semester to determine the student’s academic eligibility for that semester. 9.4.4.1 Grades Posted After the First Day of the Semester. Grades posted after the first day of the semester may be used in calculating the cumulative GPA for that semester, only if all coursework, including tests and exams, were completed prior to the first day of the semester. 9.4.5 Course Work must be Completed by First Day of Next Semester. A student must complete all work required to earn credit in a course taken during a semester by the first day of the next semester. A grade of “incomplete” must be considered a failing grade when calculating a student’s unweighted cumulative GPA. 9.4.5.1 Considerations 9.4.5.1.1 Special Course Work That Cannot be Completed by First Day of Next Semester. An exception to Bylaw 9.4.5 is made for students taking courses such as agriculture, which have special projects that cannot be completed until late summer. 9.4.5.1.2 Work Not Completed Due to Illness or Excused Absence. A student who is academically ineligible because of a failure to complete his/her course work by the first day of the next semester due to an extended illness, supported by a physician’s report, or other excused absence may have his/her academic eligibility restored once the course work is completed and the student receives a passing grade that raises his/her unweighted cumulative GPA to 2.0 or above. A school must notify the FHSAA Office in writing whenever this occurs. 9.4.6 Change in Eligibility Status. If a student’s academic eligibility changes at the end of a semester, the student will become eligible or ineligible on the sixth school day of the next semester as published on the school’s official calendar for that school year. Even if the last day of the semester coincides with the last day of school for the winter holidays, the student will not become eligible or ineligible until the sixth school day of the next semester that follows the winter holidays as published on the school’s official calendar for that school year. 9.4.7 Student Must be an Undergraduate. A student must not have completed the terminal grade of high school in the secondary education system of the U.S. or any other country. The terminal grade of the student is based on the graduation requirements of the country the student last attended school, including the completion of the GED or its equivalent. 9.4.7.1 Exception. A student who graduates early may continue to participate in interscholastic athletics with the student’s cohort at the school in which the student graduates early if (§1003.4281(3), F.S.): (a) the student complies with district, private, or charter school board rules and policies regarding access to the school facilities and grounds during normal operating hours; and (b) the student does not participate in the intercollegiate athletic programs of a community college, university, or other post-secondary institution.

9.5.1 High School Student Has Eight Semesters of Eligibility. A student is limited to eight consecutive semesters of eligibility beginning with semester he/she begins ninth grade for the first time. This does not imply that the student has eight semesters of participation. After eight consecutive semesters, the student is permanently ineligible. 9.5.1.1 Student Whose Limit of Eligibility Expires During Sports Season. A student whose eight-semester limit of eligibility expires during the season of a sport in which the student is participating may complete the season if the student continues to meet all other eligibility requirements. The student, however, will not be permitted to participate in any other sport that begins after his/her limit of eligibility has expired. 9.5.1.2 Participation Prior to High School Does Not Affect Limit of Eligibility. A student’s eight-semester limit of high school eligibility is not affected by the student’s participation in interscholastic athletics before beginning the ninth grade for the first time. 9.5.1.3 Exception. A student who begins the school year at a FHSAA member school, after completing the full school year in their former country coinciding with the end of the first semester of the FHSAA member school’s previous academic year, will not have their limit of eligibility impacted by the missed semester. 9.5.2 A 6th, 7th or 8th Grade Student Has 1-Year Limit of Eligibility in Each Grade. A 6th, 7th or 8th grade student may participate during their first year in each grade level. A 6th, 7th or 8th grade student who repeats a grade will not be eligible during the grade being repeated. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 31 Revised February 20, 2025 9.6 AGE 9.6.1 High School Age Limit. A student who reaches the age of 19 prior to July 1st shall become permanently ineligible. 9.6.2 Junior High School Age Limit. A student who reaches the age of 16 prior to July 1st shall become ineligible to participate at the junior high level. 9.6.2.1 When Junior High Age Limit Applies. The 16-year junior high school age limit applies to a participating student only when: (a) Teams representing junior high schools compete against each other; or (b) Teams representing the junior high school departments of combination junior-senior high schools compete against each other. 9.6.3 Middle School Age Limit. A student who reaches the age of 15 prior to July 1st shall become ineligible to participate at the middle school level. 9.6.3.1 When Middle School Age Limit Applies. The 15-year middle school age limit applies to a participating student only when: (a) Teams representing middle schools compete against each other; or (b) Teams representing the middle school departments of combination middle-senior high schools compete against each other. 9.6.4 School Must Verify Age of Student. A school must verify the age of each student who represents it in interscholastic athletic competition. The student must provide documented proof of his/her age for this purpose. A student who is unable to provide documented proof of his/her age cannot participate. 9.6.4.1 What is Documented Proof of Age? Documented proof of age is one or more of the following: (a) An original birth certificate issued by the office of vital records in the country, province, state, county or city where the student was born; or (b) A passport, visa, “green card” or “Employment Authorization Document” (EAD Card) that lists the student’s date of birth; or (c) An official record of birth from the hospital in which the student was born. 9.7 PHYSICAL EVALUATION (FHSAA Form EL2 – Pre-participation Physical Examination) 9.7.1 Student Must Have a Physical Evaluation Each Year. A student must have a physical evaluation each year and be certified as being physically fit to participate in interscholastic athletic programs prior to participating in interscholastic athletic competition or engaging in any practice, tryout, workout, or other physical activity associated with the student’s candidacy for an interscholastic team. A physical evaluation shall be valid for a period not to exceed one calendar year from the date of practitioner’s signature. The student cannot be allowed to participate in any activity related to interscholastic athletic programs until the fully executed physical evaluation form is on file in the school (§ 1002.20(17)(b), F.S.). 9.7.2 Qualified Practitioners. The annual physical evaluation must be administered by a practitioner licensed under Florida chapter 458, chapter 459, chapter 460, or §464.0123 and in good standing with the practitioner’s regulatory board. These include a licensed physician, a licensed osteopathic physician, a licensed chiropractic physician, a licensed physician assistant, or a certified advanced registered nurse practitioner (§1006.20(2)(c), F.S.) . 9.7.3 Filing Requirements. The student-athlete shall be required to file with the principal or his/her designee a fully executed physical evaluation form (page 4), including the listing of any past medical history, allergy, or medical condition that would be essential for school or healthcare personnel to reference in the event of an emergency, injury, or illness. Form(s) shall be signed by the approved practitioner as well as the student and his/her parent(s) or guardian(s). 9.7.3.1 Appropriate Document Storage. Each member school or district shall have an official policy and procedure to legally store and protect any personal health information contained in FHSAA Form EL2, other required FHSAA forms, or any other medical information collected on an individual student-athlete including evaluations, reports, documentation, and return to play clearance associated with an injury, illness, or condition. Member schools who contract with outside healthcare resources for healthcare services shall ensure that medical information collected from students is protected under policy. Federal protections such as FERPA, HIPPA, IDEA, and Section 504 shall be referenced when establishing individual school policies. 9.7.4 Evaluation Requirements. The Board of Directors shall adopt minimum requirements for the physical evaluation to which each member school shall adhere. B 9 STUDENT ELIGIBILITY 32 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.8 CONSENT AND RELEASE (FHSAA Form EL3 – Consent and Release from Liability Certificate) 9.8.1 Student Must Provide School with Signed Consent and Release Form to Participate. A student must have the consent of his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s) to participate in interscholastic athletic programs at a member school prior to participating in interscholastic athletic competition or engaging in any practice, tryout, workout, or other physical activity associated with the student’s candidacy for an interscholastic team. The student and his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s) must also release the FHSAA, its member schools and contest officials from all liability for any injury or claim that may result from the student’s participation in interscholastic athletics. This consent and release from liability must be provided in writing on a form developed by this Association for that purpose. The form must be signed by the student and his/her parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The student cannot be allowed to participate in any activity related to interscholastic athletic programs until the fully executed consent form is on file in the school. Collection and storage of this document shall follow Bylaw 9.7.3.1 above. 9.8.1.1 Board of Directors to Adopt Language for Consent and Release Form. The Board of Directors will adopt the language that must be contained in the consent and release form, which, at a minimum, will include the following: (a) A statement acknowledging that participation in interscholastic athletics may require the student to miss classes; (b) A statement authorizing the school to provide to the FHSAA for inspection the student’s academic, attendance and financial assistance records when requested; (c) A statement warning of the health risks, including permanent disability and loss of life, involved in participating in interscholastic athletics (including, but not limited to, concussions, heat related illness, sudden cardiac arrest, etc.); (d) A statement authorizing the use or disclosure of the student’s individually identifiable health information should treatment for illness or injury become necessary; and (e) A statement granting to the released parties the right to photograph and videotape the student and to use his/her name, face, likeness, voice, and appearance in connection with exhibitions, publicity, advertising, promotional and commercial materials without reservation or limitation.

The FHSAA reserves the right to establish ticket prices for all Florida High School State Championship Series contests. The Executive Director reserves the right to increase the ticket price for any contest up to an additional $3.00 per ticket for tickets purchased at the gate when pre-sale ticket sales have been made available for that contest. The Executive Director reserves the right to establish single day and/or full tournament ticket pricing, at a price not to exceed the value of the total number of single session events included in the single day or tournament pricing at Championship events. The Executive Director also reserves the right to establish premium seating ticket prices for a Florida High School State Championship Series contest when the venue can provide for such seating, unless otherwise stipulated below. The following admission prices shall be charged by the host school/organization for all Florida High School State Championship Series contests unless waived in writing by the Executive Director or his/her designee in advance of the event. In the event a waiver is granted to change the price of admission, a financial report must still be submitted, and the Host is not eligible for loss reimbursement funding. 9.7.1 Baseball, Cross Country, Soccer, Softball, Swimming & Diving, Track & Field, Girls and Boys Volleyball and Wrestling. The admission price to tournament sessions in the Florida High School State Championship Series shall be as follows: district tournaments/meets, $8; regional tournaments/meets, $9; Florida High School State Championship Semifinals, general admission $11. Florida High School State Championship Finals, general admission $11. 9.7.2 Girls and Boys Basketball. The admission price to tournament sessions in the Florida High School State Championship Series shall be as follows: district tournaments, $8; regional tournaments, $9; Florida High School State Championship Semifinals, general admission $12, reserved seating $17. Florida High School State Championship Finals, general admission $12, reserved seating $17. 9.7.3 Football. The admission price to games in the Florida High School State Championship Series shall be as follows: regional tournament games, $10 general admission, $11 reserved seating; state semifinal games, $11 general admission, $12 reserved seating; Florida High School State Championship Finals, general admission $14, reserved seating $19, premium seating packages $29. 9.7.4 Girls Weightlifting and Boys Weightlifting. The admission price to meets in the Florida High School State Championship Series shall be as follows: district tournaments/meets, $8; regional tournaments/meets, $9; Florida High School State Championship Semifinals, $11. Florida High School State Championship Finals, $11. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 57 Revised February 20, 2025 P 9 FINANCES 9.7.5 Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Flag Football, Lacrosse, and Water Polo. The admission price to tournament sessions in the Florida High School State Championship Series shall be as follows: district tournaments/meets, $8; regional tournaments/ meets, $9; Florida High School State Championship Semifinals, $10. Florida High School State Championship Finals, $10. 9.7.6 Golf and Tennis. No admission shall be charged for Florida High School State Championship Series events in these sports. 9.7.7 Cheerleading. The admission price to the Florida High School State Championship Series competitions shall be as follows: regional level competitions, $8; Florida High School State Championship Semifinals, $12. Florida High School State Championship Finals, $12.

9.9.1 Administrative Fee. A non-refundable administrative fee shall be assessed each member school making an application utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. Electronic submittal of information on Form AT2 is required for approval to host a preseason or post season event in the sport of football. Refer to Policy 7 for filing deadlines, late filing financial penalties, nationally televised event fees and third-party fees. 9.9.1.1 Preseason, Spring Classics and Jamborees. In the sport of football, the FHSAA shall receive 20 percent of the gross receipts of all football classic and jamboree games, or a flat fee as listed below, whichever is less (minimum of $100): Classification Fall Fee Spring Fee All Classifications $1,150 $600 The financial split between host and visitor should be stated in the game contract. Failure to state a financial split in the game contract shall default to: visiting school receives 35 percent of the net profit after the host pays expenses, including the FHSAA share. Financial Report information reported on Form FB3 shall be submitted utilizing the official Association process approved by the Executive Director. The financial report and payment must be received by the FHSAA within 30 calendar days of the completion of the event. A late filing fee and/or late payment fee of $50 for each occurrence may be assessed. If a Classic or Jamboree is cancelled after scheduling the event, the host must notify FHSAA of the cancellation by the deadline for the payment of fees or the host may incur a $50 fee. 58 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.9.1.2 Postseason Football Bowl Games. The FHSAA shall receive eight (8) percent of the gross receipts of all postseason football bowl games. Refer to Policy 7.6 if the event involves a Third-Party promoter. The balance of gross receipts shall be divided between the participating schools in accordance with the agreement between them. Financial Report information reported on Form FB3 must be submitted utilizing the official Association process approved by the Executive Director. The financial report and payment must be received by the FHSAA within 30 calendar days of the completion of the event. A late filing fee and/or late payment fee of $50 for each occurrence may be assessed. 9.10 Florida High School State Championship Series Games, Tournaments & Meets Financial Reporting and Revenue Sharing 9.10.1 Football. Each regional tournament game and state semifinal game shall be financially independent. The total gate receipts of each regional tournament game and state semifinal game shall be divided as follows: FHSAA shall receive 25 percent of gate receipts or the total net profit after host expenses, whichever is less. The amounts remaining after host expenses and FHSAA share are paid shall be divided 55 percent to the host school and 45 percent to the visiting school(s). If, however, a regional tournament game or state semifinal game shows a net profit of $250 or less, the host school shall retain the net profit and no percentage shall be paid to the visiting school(s) or the FHSAA. In the event the host school reports a net profit of $250 or less, the host school must provide supporting documentation for all expenses claimed. The net profit is determined by subtracting total expenditures from the total gate receipts on the financial report form. If a regional tournament game or state semifinal game shows a net loss on the financial report, the FHSAA shall compensate the host school up to $350 for the loss, subject to the provisions of 9.10.4. Financial Report information reported on Form FN2 shall be submitted utilizing the official Association process approved by the Executive Director for regional and state semifinals. The financial report and payment must be received by the FHSAA within 30 calendar days of the completion of the event. A late filing fee and/or late payment fee of $50 for each occurrence may be assessed. 9.10.2 Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball and Girls Volleyball. Each regional tournament contest shall be financially independent. The total gate receipts of each regional tournament contest shall be divided as follows: FHSAA shall receive 15 percent of gate receipts or the total net profit after host expenses, whichever is less. The amounts remaining after host expenses and FHSAA share are paid shall be divided 55 percent to the host school and 45 percent to the visiting school. If, however, a regional tournament contest shows a net profit of $250 or less, the host school shall retain the net profit and no percentage shall be paid to the visiting school or the FHSAA. The net profit is determined by subtracting total expenditures from the total gate receipts on the financial report form. If a regional tournament contest shows a net loss on the financial report, the FHSAA shall compensate the host school up to $350 for the loss, subject to the provisions of 9.10.4. The host school is fiscally responsible for all remaining losses beyond the provisions of 9.10.4. Financial Report information reported on Form FN2 shall be submitted utilizing the official Association process approved by the Executive Director for regional tournaments. The financial report and payment must be received by the FHSAA within 30 calendar days of the completion of the event. A late filing fee and/or late payment fee of $50 for each occurrence may be assessed. 9.10.2.1 Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball and Girls Volleyball District Tournaments. The FHSAA will not receive any percentage of the gross receipts from district tournaments. Host schools of district tournaments in these sports do not need to file a financial report. District planning meetings should determine how the district hosts should distribute net profits or loss. Unless approved otherwise at the district planning meeting, each district tournament contest shall be financially independent, and profits and losses shall be redistributed as stated in Policy 9.10.2. 9.10.3 Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Cross Country, Flag Football, Golf, Lacrosse, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field, Boys Volleyball, Water Polo, Weightlifting and Wrestling. The FHSAA will not receive any percentage of the gross receipts from district or region tournaments or meets or any Florida High School State Championship Series play-in games. Host schools of district tournaments or Florida High School State Championship Series play-in games in these sports do not need to file a financial report. District planning meetings should determine how the district host should distribute net profits or loss. Unless approved otherwise at a district planning meeting, the host school is fiscally responsible for all losses and must redistribute profits as stated in policy 9.10.2. 9.10.4 Net Loss Reimbursement. To be eligible to receive the $350 maximum compensation for a net loss shown on the financial report, a host school must: 9.10.4.1 Charge the full admission price established in Policy 9.7.1-9.7.7 without waiver; 9.10.4.2 Sell numbered tickets, or numbered arm bands, and account for all tickets sold, including electronic tickets, as stipulated in Policy 9.8; 9.10.4.3 File a financial report form for the game, tournament or meet as stipulated in Policy 9.10 (the sports listed in Policy 9.10.3 are ineligible since they do not file financial reports); 9.10.4.4 Provide supporting documentation for all expenses reported and follow expense limitations on the financial report regarding event manager, facility rental and trophies; and 9.10.4.5 Be in compliance with all policies for the event. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 59 Revised February 20, 2025 P 9 FINANCES 9.10.5 Entry Fees for a Florida High School State Championship Series. Entry fees may only be charged to participating teams in a Florida High School State Championship Series event in the following situations: (a) Cross Country event held on property that does not permit ticket sales. Fees may be assessed to cover reasonable costs of the event (b) Tennis and Golf event where fees are assessed to share reasonable costs of the event with the host (c) Swimming & Diving events where host incurs a pool rental fee and splits the cost of the rental with participating schools (see policy 14 for maximum rental fees) (d) Sharing shortfalls on a District Florida High School State Championship Series event after FHSAA loss reimbursement, when authorized by the District Planning Meeting (e) Upon prior written permission from the Executive Director or his/her designee

33.2.1 Cheerleaders must remain in their seats along the sidelines at all times when the ball is alive, or a match is in progress. 33.2.2 Officials are responsible for the enforcement of this regulation. First offense – warning; Second and subsequent offense – technical foul in basketball; awarding of point against violating school in volleyball and wrestling. 33.3 Florida High School State Championship Series. Sideline cheerleading squads will be permitted to cheer at Florida High School State Championship Series contests provided the cheerleading squads cheered at regular season contests for that sport. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 95 Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 34 PHOTOGRAPHING, FILMING AND VIDEOTAPING ATHLETIC CONTESTS

(a) In the sport of football, the District Champion/Runner-up may elect to purchase District Championship/Runner-up Trophies, and if so, must purchase these from the FHSAA authorized award vendor. (b) In the sports of Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball and Girls Volleyball, the Host may elect to purchase District Championship trophies, and if so, must purchase these from the FHSAA authorized award vendor and report the expense on the FN2 financial report for the event. (c) In all sports, Regional Championship trophies may be purchased by the Champion school from the FHSAA authorized award vendor after the event. The cost of Regional Championship trophies may not be claimed by the Host as an expense on the financial report for the event. 9.10.7 Failure of Host to Meet Financial Reporting and Payment Requirements. Schools may be sanctioned including, but not limited to, loss of ability to host future Florida High School State Championship Series events if the school fails to complete financial reports and share revenue in a timely manner and in accordance with all items contained in Policy 9.

10.6.5.1 Written Notice. The request for mediation must be made in writing to the Executive Director on the form(s) provided by the Association, must be signed by the member school principal or his/her designee and must be received in the office of this Association within five (5) business days following the date of the Sectional Appeals Committee hearing. The request must include a declaration of what the member school, as the representative of the student, is seeking as a successful mediation of the eligibility issue. The Executive Director may accept the terms of this mediation request without further action, he/she may set the request for mediation, or he/she may decline this mediation request. 10.6.5.2 Mediators. If mediation is set, the mediator shall be selected from a panel of experienced mediators designated by the Board of Directors for the purpose of mediating eligibility decisions. 10.6.5.3 Parties to the Mediation. The parties to the mediation shall be the Executive Director, or his/her designee on behalf of the Association, and a representative from the member school and the student and/or parent(s) on behalf of the student. 10.6.5.4 Mediation Date. Mediation hearings, if needed, will be scheduled monthly. Mediation hearings will not be scheduled for cases that are in conflict with state statutes. 10.6.5.5 Mediation Procedures. Mediation sessions should not require more than twenty (20) minutes per session. However, if the mediator determines that the mediation is proceeding toward a positive resolution, the mediation session may be extended. Mediation shall be held at the FHSAA building unless the parties and the mediator agree to a telephonic/electronic mediation. 10.6.5.6 Terms from Mediation. If the parties reach an agreement at mediation, then the member school and student waive all rights to further appeals of this matter. If the parties do not reach an agreement at mediation, then the member school may proceed with an appeal to the Board of Directors. Notice of appeal must be in writing and received within 5 business days following the mediation session. 10.6.5.7 Cost of Mediation. The cost of mediation shall be shared equally by both parties.

3.1.1 Opportunity for Membership. A senior high school, a middle/junior high school, a combination school, a charter school, a virtual school or a home education cooperative located in Florida may be a member of the FHSAA if it meets the qualifications, conditions and obligations of membership. 3.1.2 Classifications. Senior high school members may be divided into classifications for purposes of competition in FHSAA championships. The Board of Directors will adopt the criteria for determining these classifications. 3.1.3 Assignment to Geographical Areas. Member schools are assigned to geographical areas for the purpose of representation in the FHSAA governance structure and substructures. 3.1.4 Deadlines. When deadline dates fall on a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday as established by Florida Law, the deadline will be the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday or legal holiday. 3.1.5 Termination of Membership. All privileges of a member school will cease immediately when its membership ends.

3.7.1 First-Time Admittance. The Board of Directors, at its final meeting of each school year, will determine if a school applying for first-time membership in the Association will receive provisional admission in the following year. The FHSAA Office will recommend whether the school should be admitted. 3.7.2 Election to Membership. The Board of Directors, at its final meeting of each school year, will determine whether to elect to membership a school that has applied for first-time full membership or has applied to continue its membership. B 3 MEMBERSHIP 12 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 3.7.2.1 First-Time Membership. A school that has completed its provisional period will be considered for first- time election to membership. The FHSAA Office will report to the Board of Directors whether the school has satisfied the conditions of its provisional period and meets fully the qualifications and conditions of membership. The FHSAA Office also will recommend whether the school should be elected to membership. 3.7.2.2 Continuing Membership. A member school that applies to continue its membership will be considered for reelection to membership. The FHSAA Office will report to the Board of Directors whether the school continues to meet fully the qualifications and conditions of membership and is a member in good standing. The FHSAA Office also will recommend whether the school should be reelected to membership. 3.7.2.3 Membership by Sport. A member school that has completed its provisional period or applies to continue its membership, will have the option of membership by sport. 3.7.3 Advance Notice of Unfavorable Recommendation. The FHSAA Office will provide advance notice in writing to the principal of a school that will not be recommended for admittance, election, or reelection to membership. The notice must contain the reason for the unfavorable recommendation. The principal will be advised that he or she may appear before the Board of Directors at the meeting to explain why the school should be admitted, elected, or reelected to membership. 3.7.4 Decision of Board of Directors. The decision of the Board of Directors whether to admit, elect, or reelect a school to membership must be by majority vote. The decision will be final. 3.7.4.1 Reconsideration of Decision. A school that is not admitted, elected, or reelected to membership by the Board of Directors may request that the decision be reconsidered. The Board of Directors may reconsider the decision at its next regularly scheduled meeting.

4.1.3.1 Sports Other Than Football. Member schools must submit their schedules for all home contests, at all levels (i.e., varsity, sub-varsity, etc.), including preseason/spring classics and jamborees, to the FHSAA, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, prior to the first week of regular season competition of the sport. 4.1.3.2 Football. Each member school must submit to the FHSAA, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, not later than March 31 of each year their football schedule for all home contests, at all levels (i.e., varsity, sub-varsity, etc.), including preseason/spring classics and jamborees, the following school year. 4.1.3.2.1 Out of State Football Games. Schools that have scheduled games with out of state opponents must enter each out of state opponent’s football schedule, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 49 Revised February 20, 2025

4.2.1 Year of Service. A person who serves on a body in the FHSAA governance structure has served one year of his/her term of service if he/she was elected or appointed in advance of the first regularly scheduled meeting of the body in a school year. A person who is appointed to fill a vacant seat on a body after it has held at least one meeting in a school year will not be considered to have served a full year.

4.3.4.1 Selection. Eight (8) members will be appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Senate. Four (4) members will be elected by their constituent group. The FHSAA Representatives who represent each administrative section are elected by a majority of votes cast by all public or nonpublic school representatives within the administrative section. 4.3.4.2 Term of Service. The term of service for a board member is three school years, beginning July 1 following his/her election or appointment. A board member may be reelected or re-appointed to a second three-year term but cannot serve more than a maximum of six consecutive school years. These term limits, however, do not apply to the Commissioner of Education or his/ her designee, whose term is unlimited. 4.3.5 Officers. The officers of the Board of Directors are a president and a president-elect. Each serves a term of one school year, which runs concurrent with one year of his/her term of service on the board. Neither can serve consecutive like terms. 4.3.5.1 President. The president presides over all meetings of the Board of Directors and performs other duties of the office. The president’s term of service begins on July 1 following a one-year term of service as president-elect. 4.3.5.2 President-Elect. The president-elect is elected by the Board from among its members at its last regularly scheduled meeting of each school year. To be eligible for election, the president-elect must have been elected or appointed to a second term and have not fewer than two years remaining in his/her second term of office. The president-elect performs the duties of the president if he/she is absent or unable to act. The president-elect’s term of service begins on July 1 following his/her election to the office. The president-elect becomes president on July 1 of the next school year. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 15 Revised February 20, 2025 4.3.5.3 Vacancies. (a) If the president vacates the office before the end of his/her term, the president-elect will serve as president for the remainder of the vacated term and then as president for the term to which he/she was elected. (b) If the president-elect vacates the office before the end of his/her term, the Board of Directors elects a new president- elect during its next regularly scheduled meeting. (c) If both the president and president-elect vacate the offices before their terms end, the board elects an acting president and acting president-elect for the remainder of the school year at its next regularly scheduled meeting. A new president and president-elect for the following school year then will be elected at the final regularly scheduled meeting of the year.

9.12.1 If severe weather occurs in the area prior to the start of, or during, any scheduled outdoor game, tournament or meet and the event is delayed, postponed, suspended, or canceled, special rules apply. If for other unforeseen reasons, a game, tournament, or meet is delayed, postponed, suspended, or canceled, special rules apply. 9.12.2 If tickets have been sold for the event and any revenue related to the event is retained by the school, then the regular financial reporting process must be completed with payments to the FHSAA and to the participating school(s). If free entry is given for a future event, the revenue received and retained should be reported for the event. If money is refunded and not retained, then it should not be included as revenue reported for the event. If tickets were presold for the event and the event was canceled before it was to begin, then the revenue received and retained (not refunded) from the presold tickets should be reported on the financial report. 60 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.12.3 If a financial hardship results from the inclement weather and the related loss of playing time, the host school should submit a written request for waiver of financial share payments. Requests should be submitted to the Executive Director or his/her designee. Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis. 9.12.4 The host of any sanctioned event where a cancellation of the event occurs prior to any sales being made, must notify the FHSAA of the cancellation no later than the deadline for the sanction fee or financial report to avoid a $50 late fee. 9.13 Member Schools Limited to Non-Tax Funds. Member schools must only use non-tax sources of funds as defined in Policy 9.1.4 to make payments of any kind to the FHSAA. Payments for administrative fees for tournaments and classics in Policies 9.5 and 9.9, and payments to FHSAA for Florida High School State Championship Series games in Policy 9.10 are deemed to be derived from the public sale of tickets to the event. Member schools must assure payments for membership fees, legal cost sharing, and all other fees and fines are made from funds that are not derived from taxes. 9.14 Failure of Host to Meet Financial Reporting and Payment Requirements. Schools may be penalized for failure to complete financial reports, pay invoices and/or share revenue in a timely manner and in accordance with all items contained in Policy 9. Penalties may include, but are not limited to, loss of ability to host future Florida High School State Championship Series events. 9.15 Cost of Appeals and Mediation. In the event a school’s Sectional or Infraction appeal is denied, or the finding of the Executive Director is upheld, the cost of the appeal, including the Association’s attorney fees, shall be billed to the school upon completion of the appeal. The cost of Mediation shall be shared equally by the Association and the school and shall be billed to the school upon completion of the Mediation. In the event a school requests an Emergency Appeal, all expenses associated with the appeal will be billed to the school. POLICY 10 FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL STATE CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

19.5.1 Committees. There shall be an advisory committee in each sport in which the FHSAA sanctions a Florida High School State Championship Series competition. Currently, these sports are baseball, basketball, beach volleyball, bowling, competitive cheerleading, cross country, football, flag football, golf, girls lacrosse, boys lacrosse, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, tennis, track & field, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting and wrestling. 19.5.2 Composition. Each sport advisory committee shall be comprised of 10 individuals – two-member school head coaches from each of the Association’s four administrative sections, the Florida Athletic Coaches Association (FACA) state chairperson in that sport if he/she is not elected to represent a section, and a member of the Officials Advisory Committee in an ex-officio capacity. In sports in which there are both girls and boys teams, representation on the committee shall be one-half girls team coaches and one-half boys team coaches. If the sport does not have a school that participates in a particular section, that particular section’s seat shall remain vacant except in sports that have both sexes participating, then an opposite sex sport coach may fill that vacancy. The FHSAA staff shall establish a rotation to ensure such equitable sex representation. 19.5.3 Elections. Each sport advisory committee member will be elected by their peers from each of the Association’s four administrative sections respectively. 19.5.4 Term. Each elected member and the FACA representative of the committee shall serve a term of three years and shall not be eligible to immediately succeed himself/herself. A rotation of terms shall be established to ensure that not more than one-half of the elected members’ terms expire in any given year. 19.5.5 Meetings. Each sport advisory committee shall meet, at a minimum, once annually following the conclusion of its respective Florida High School State Championship Series to evaluate the FHSAA program for that sport. 19.5.6 Quorum. Five (5) of the voting members of an advisory committee shall constitute a quorum. 19.6 Officials Advisory Committees 19.6.1 Committees and Composition. There shall be three Officials Advisory Committees, one for each of the sport seasons. The Fall Sports Officials Advisory Committee shall be comprised of officials from football, swimming and diving and volleyball. The Winter Sports Officials Advisory Committee shall be comprised of officials from basketball, soccer, and wrestling. The Spring Sports Officials Advisory Committee shall be comprised of officials from baseball, flag football, girls lacrosse, boys lacrosse, softball, track and field and water polo. 19.6.2 Committee Representation. Each sport shall have representation based on the number of officials registered during the previous year in the sport. Sports with officials totaling 800 or more shall have one official per administrative section with a maximum of four on the committee. Sports with officials totaling between the range of 799-250 shall have one official per administrative sections 1 and 2 and one official per administrative sections 3 and 4. Sports with officials totaling less than 250 shall have one official on the committee. 19.6.3 Elections. All committee members shall be elected by those officials who are registered and in good standing in that sport. 19.6.4 Term. Each elected member of the committee shall serve a term of three years and shall not be eligible to immediately succeed himself/herself. A rotation of terms shall be established to ensure that not more than one-half of the elected members’ terms expire in any given year. 19.6.5 Meetings. The Officials Advisory Committee shall meet, at a minimum, once annually to evaluate the FHSAA officials’ program. 19.6.6 Quorum. A quorum of each Officials Advisory Committee shall consist of one more than half of its members.

4.1.5.1 Team Sports Other Than Football. Member schools, committed to either Florida High School State Championship Series or independent, must report to the FHSAA, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, the scores of regular season varsity games no later than 24 hours following the completion of the contest as follows: 4.1.5.1.1 The HOME team shall report the score. 4.1.5.1.2 In the event a member school plays in a game hosted by a school outside of the state of Florida or plays a non-member Florida school permissible by state statute, the member school shall be required to report the score following the same procedure in 4.1.5.1.1. 4.1.5.2 Football. Member schools, committed to either Florida High School State Championship Series or independent, must report to the FHSAA each week the scores of regular season varsity football games as follows: 4.1.5.2.1 The HOME team shall report the score of the previous week’s games to the FHSAA, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, no later than 9 a.m. ET of the day following the game. 4.1.5.2.2 In the event a member school plays in a game hosted by a school outside of the state of Florida or a non-member Florida school per state statute, the member school shall be required to report the score following the same procedure in 4.1.5.2.1.

6.2.1 Eligibility Reports. The principal or designee must annually submit all eligibility reports utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director. 6.2.1.1 Accuracy. The principal or designee shall certify that the information provided to the Association is accurate, and that the students named in the report are eligible in accordance with these bylaws. 6.2.2 Principal is Unavailable. An assistant principal designated by the principal or the school’s representative to the Association, if other than the principal, may electronically submit eligibility reports or sign eligibility correspondence if the principal is unavailable, provided that the circumstances are noted on the report or correspondence.

Series .............................................................. 22-23 8.8 Season Limitations .............................................. 23 8.9 Use of Registered Officials .................................. 23

General Terms and Fundamental Belief 1.1 Name ..................................................................... 4 1.2 Purpose ................................................................. 4 1.3 Objectives .............................................................. 4 1.4 General Terms .................................................... 4-6 1.5 Fundamental Belief ................................................ 6

The name of this corporation is “Florida High School Athletic Association, Inc.” 1.1.1 Common References. This organization is commonly referred to as the “Florida High School Athletic Association,” the “Association,” or the “FHSAA.” 1.1.2 Location of Office. The FHSAA Office is located in Gainesville, Florida. 1.1.3 Type of Organization. The FHSAA is a voluntary association of middle/junior high schools, senior high schools, combination schools (K-12, K-8, 6-12, etc.) and home education cooperatives that are physically located in Florida. It operates as a not-for-profit corporation. 1.1.4 National Affiliation. The FHSAA shall maintain membership in the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS).

10.1 Principles and Penalties ................................. 34-35 10.2 Forfeiture of Contest ............................................ 35 10.3 Protest Procedure ........................................... 35-36 10.4 Due Process ........................................................ 36

10.5.1 Neutrality. It is the responsibility of the host school to ensure that an atmosphere of neutrality is maintained in all Florida High School State Championship Series events. Such events are not “home contests” for the host schools. Special festivities held as part of, or in conjunction with, regular season home contests (i.e., pregame activities designed to rally support for the home team, such as light shows, or giving special recognition to members of the home team) are not permitted during the Florida High School State Championship Series.

10.5.9.1 Purpose of Committee. The Executive Director authorizes an Emergency Appeals Committee solely to decide those issues normally decided by the Sectional Appeals Committee or the Board of Directors in which elimination from the Florida High School State Championship Series has occurred. 10.5.9.2 Composition of Committee. The committee will be composed of five ad hoc members as follows: (a) One non-attorney member from each of the four Sectional Appeals Committees; and (b) One attorney member from one of the four Sectional Appeals Committees. The attorney member shall chair the Emergency Appeals Committee. 10.5.9.3 Selection of Committee Members. When requested by the Executive Director, the Emergency Appeal Committee members will be selected as follows: (a) Each non-lawyer member will be designated by the Chairperson of the respective Sectional Appeals Committees; and (b) The attorney member, who will serve as the chair of the committee, will be designated by the Executive Director. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 39 Revised February 20, 2025 10.5.9.4 Authority and Duties of Committee. The committee: (a) Shall decide those issues normally decided by the Sectional Appeals Committee or the Board of Directors when a school, in team sport, or an individual, in an individual sport, would be eliminated from a Florida High School State Championship Series contest before the next meeting of the Sectional Appeals Committee or Board of Directors; (b) Shall not be called upon to decide undue hardship cases, or other cases, affecting a student’s eligibility unless such student’s eligibility would eliminate a school, in a team sport, or the student, in an individual sport, from a Florida High School State Championship Series contest before the next meeting of the appropriate Sectional Appeals Committee or the Board of Directors. 10.5.9.5 Committee to Meet as Needed. The committee meets as needed upon call by the Executive Director. 10.5.9.6 Appeal of Decisions. The decision of the Emergency Appeals Committee can be appealed by the member school or the Executive Director at the next meeting of the Board of Directors.

10.7.1 Opening Remarks at an FHSAA State Championship Series Event. The FHSAA shall provide each school participating in an FHSAA State Championship Series event the opportunity to make brief opening remarks, if requested by the school, using the public address system at the event. 10.7.1.1 The participating school(s) may select the speaker; and 10.7.1.2 Remarks may not be longer than two (2) minutes per participating school; and 10.7.1.3 Member schools may not provide remarks that are derogatory, rude, or threatening; and 10.7.1.4 Before the opening remarks, the announcement must be made that the content of any opening remarks by a participating school is not endorsed by and does not reflect the views and/or opinions of the FHSAA. POLICY 11 ROSTERS

10.7.1 Sectional Appeals Committee Powers. The Sectional Appeals Committee is empowered to consider a request from member schools seeking exceptions to Bylaws and regulations, to hear undue hardship eligibility cases filed by member schools on behalf of student-athletes, and to hear appeals filed by member schools or other individuals. The decision in each case shall be by majority vote and may be appealed to the Board of Directors. 10.7.1.1 Reliance on a Sectional Appeals Committee Decision. A school that allows a student to participate in accordance with a Sectional Appeals Committee decision that is later reversed by the Board of Directors will not be subject to the penalties normally assessed a school that allows participation by an ineligible student. 10.7.2 Infraction Appeals Committee Powers. The Infraction Appeals Committee is empowered to hear and act upon appeals of schools found to have committed major violations and to make recommendations to the Board of Directors and FHSAA staff relative to the formulation and revision of FHSAA enforcement policies and procedures. The decision in each case shall be by majority vote and may be appealed to the Board of Directors. 10.7.3 Board of Directors Powers. The Board of Directors is empowered to review appeals and requests for waivers and sustain, modify, or overturn the decision of the Sectional Appeals Committee, Infraction Appeals Committee and/or the Executive Director in each case that comes before it. 10.7.3.1 Finality of Ruling. The decision of the Board of Directors in each case shall be by majority vote and shall be final.

18.1.1 Only those student-athletes who are attending a member school, or who are non-traditional students, as defined in Policy 12.2.1.2, registered with a member school, may participate in the practice of an athletic team which represents that member school. 18.1.2 Practice sessions, practice games or exhibitions/exhibition games in which students from two or more schools participate are prohibited. 18.1.3 Violation of this policy could result in a monetary penalty of a minimum of $250 per occurrence and/or other sanctions.

19.10.1 Charge. The purpose of the Media Advisory Committee is to monitor and assist the organization in all media-related areas. In addition, the committee serves as a liaison between all media members in the state of Florida and the Association. In achieving its purpose, the MAC shall review FHSAA media-related policies, offer to the FHSAA recommendations for change to such policies as it deems appropriate and offer advice and guidance to the FHSAA staff. 19.10.2 Composition. The Media Advisory Committee will be comprised of 12 members representing each of the four (4) FHSAA Administrative Sections. 19.10.3 Selection. Committee members will be selected by the FHSAA staff. The selection process will take into consideration sex , race, and media type (print, digital, TV, radio, student, other) to ensure a well-rounded committee. 19.10.4 Meetings. The committee will meet, at a minimum, once annually. 19.10.5 Quorum. Six (6) of the voting members of the Media Advisory Committee shall constitute a quorum. POLICY 20 SUMMER ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION

Each school must comply with all applicable FHSAA rules. The FHSAA will assist schools in their efforts to achieve full compliance with all rules and will establish fair procedures for addressing alleged or identified failures in compliance. A school found to have violated FHSAA rules will be subject to such disciplinary and corrective actions as may be determined to be appropriate by the Association.

The FHSAA will adopt and enforce eligibility rules that assure proper emphasis on educational objectives and promote competitive equity among schools.

Competition ................................................................ 8

21.7.1 Schools shall implement policies that follow the recommendations listed in Policy 41.5.

3.1 General Principles ................................................. 8 3.2 General Definitions ............................................. 8-9 3.3 Qualifications & Conditions of Membership ........... 9 3.4 Conditional Membership ................................... 9-10 3.5 Obligations of Membership ............................. 10-11 3.6 Application for Membership .................................. 11

3.11.1 Method of Division. The Board of Directors will divide the Association’s membership along existing county lines into four contiguous and compact administrative sections, each containing an equal or nearly equal number of member schools, to ensure equitable representation in the FHSAA governance structure and substructures. CONSTITUTIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 4 Organization and Governance

Membership .................................................... 11-12 3.8 Membership Dues and Fees ................................ 12 3.9 Privileges of Membership .................................... 12 3.10 Termination and Restriction of Membership ... 12-13 3.11 Geographical Areas ............................................. 13

3.8.1 Annual Dues. The Board of Directors will determine the annual dues to be assessed each member school. 3.8.2 Membership Fees. The Board of Directors may assess additional membership fees to be paid by each member school. 3.8.3 Payment. Dues and fees are payable each year in accordance with the deadline set by the Board of Directors.

(a) The school that the student attends may assist with locating and screening potential host families (Note: member schools that participate in locating and screening potential families must develop a written process which may be reviewed by the Association upon request), (b) No member of the school’s coaching staff may serve as the host family. (c) No representative of the school’s athletic interest, as defined in Bylaw 1.4.17(c-f), who is associated with the same sport as the student, may serve as the host family.

4.1 General Principles ............................................... 13 4.2 General Definitions .............................................. 13 4.3 Board of Directors ........................................... 13-15 4.4 Sectional Appeals Committees ....................... 15-16 4.5 Executive Director ........................................... 16-17 4.6 Elections and Vacancies ................................. 17-18

4.6.2.1 Positions Held by School Representatives. The Board of Directors will appoint an eligible person to fill a school representative position on the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors, or Sectional Appeals Committees when the person holding the position vacates before the end of his/her term of service. The person appointed to the position will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term. 4.6.2.2 Positions Held by District School Superintendents and District School Board Members. The Florida Association of District School Superintendents and the Florida School Boards Association will determine the method for replacing their respective representatives on the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors, and Sectional Appeals Committees when the person holding the position vacates before the end of his/her term of service. The person appointed to the position will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term. 4.6.2.3 Determining Year of Service for Person Appointed to Fill Unexpired Term. A person appointed to fill a position on the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors, or Sectional Appeals Committees for the remainder of an unexpired term is considered to have served a full year only if he/she was appointed prior to and attended the first meeting of the year. CONSTITUTIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 5 Amendments

• Headache • Nausea • Balance problems or dizziness • Double or fuzzy vision • Sensitivity to light or noise • Feeling sluggish • Feeling foggy or groggy • Concentration or memory problems • Confusion

The FHSAA owns or controls all rights and interests in its name, logos, trademarks and service marks, whether registered or unregistered, including “Florida High School Athletic Association,” “Florida High School Activities Association,” “FHSAA,” “FHSAA Finals,” “FHSAA Florida Finals,” “Florida Finals,” “FHSAA Championships,” “FHSAA State Series,” “Florida High School State Championship Series,” “Sport the ‘Tude!,” and “Play Strong. Play Hard. Play Fair.” The FHSAA will prosecute infringement of identical or confusingly similar marks. The FHSAA shall maintain control over the nature and quality of the goods and services rendered under the marks; therefore, no use of the marks by others will be permitted in advertising, in association with commercial services or related to the sale of merchandise without the specific approval of the FHSAA. P 43 EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS, HEALTHCARE SERVICES 116 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

5.1 Submission of Amendments ................................ 18 5.2 Action by Representative Assembly ......................... 18 5.3 Effective Date of Amendments ................................. 18 Operational Bylaws

5.1.1 Submission. Each member school FHSAA Representative, the Board of Directors acting as a whole or as members acting individually, any advisory committee to be established by the Association acting as a whole, and the Association’s Executive Director are empowered to propose amendments to the Bylaws. Any other individual may propose an amendment by securing the sponsorship of any of the aforementioned individuals or bodies. Proposed amendments to the Bylaws must be submitted to the Executive Director by such date as adopted by the Board of Directors for consideration by the Representative Assembly. All proposed amendments received by the deadline shall be submitted by the Executive Director directly to the Representative Assembly for its consideration.

5.2.1 Continuing Membership. A completed membership packet must be on file at the FHSAA office on or before April 30. A school whose form is not received by May 15 may not be considered for reelection to membership for the following school year. A school may opt for a 5-year, multi-year membership contract with the Association, at a reduced yearly rate, paid in advance (see Policy 9). Provisional and applying member schools are not eligible for multi-year membership. 5.2.2 First-Time Membership. A completed membership packet (reference Bylaw 3.6.1.1) must be on file at the FHSAA office on or before April 30 for the school to be considered for membership with the association. Upon submittal of the membership application packet and following the successful completion of an on campus administrative consultation and school site visit by the Executive Director or his/her designee(s), written correspondence of acceptance will be sent to the applying member school and a conditional three (3) year membership period (reference Bylaw 3.4) will begin.

5.3.1 Effective Date. An amendment shall become effective on the first day of July following its adoption unless otherwise specified. OPERATIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 6 Authority and Responsibilities of the Principal

A third party is any entity that is not a member of the FHSAA and is organizing, producing, or managing an event that involves FHSAA member schools or NFHS schools from out of state, regardless of where the event is held. 7.6.1 Sanctioning and any FHSAA fees for the event are the responsibility of the third party hosting the event, not the participating member school. It is the responsibility of the member school to ensure the event in which they are participating has been approved and sanctioned by the FHSAA. The FHSAA shall publish all approved events. 7.6.2 Third party events held in private or corporate facilities, or on school facilities where the member school is not fulfilling “Host” duties as defined in Policy 7.1.2, require a direct contract between the FHSAA and third party for sanction approval. 7.6.3 Any event hosted by or held on a college or university campus must be directly sanctioned by the college, university or third party with the FHSAA. If a member school is affiliated with the college or university and typically uses the college or university facility as their home facility, normal sanctioning approval stipulated in Policy 7.2.1 shall apply. 54 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 7.6.4 Any school that participates in a third-party event that is not sanctioned by the FHSAA may lose the privilege to participate in a future contest(s), including but not limited to, preseason jamboree(s) or preseason classic(s). Additional penalties as per Policy 7.5 may also be assessed. Any third-party found in violation of Policy 7 will no longer be afforded the opportunity to sanction third-party events through the FHSAA.

Lacrosse, Swimming & Diving, Tennis, Track & Field, Boys Volleyball, Water Polo, Weightlifting, and Wrestling. No reimbursement of any kind shall be paid to schools which qualify teams and/or individual contestants to the Florida High School State Championship Series. Neither the FHSAA nor the host school or organization shall assume responsibility for any participating school or individual contestant expenses of any kind.

9.2.1 Membership Dues. 9.2.1.1 Continuing Senior High School Members. Dues for the current school year are $25, regardless of school size. Multiple year membership dues are discounted to $100 for the five-year period, payable in the first year of the five- year membership. Payment of dues must be received in the FHSAA Office by September 30. Per FHSAA Bylaw 3.10.1, schools will be suspended from membership after September 30, if dues have not been paid. In order for the suspended school to be reinstated, it must pay dues and an additional reactivation fee stated in 9.2.3 prior to December 31. Failure to pay late dues and reactivation fee by December 31 will result in termination from membership. 9.2.1.2 First-Time Senior High School Members. Dues for the first school year of membership are considered paid within the membership application fee and no further membership dues will be assessed during the first year. 9.2.1.3 Continuing Middle/Junior High Schools. Dues for the current school year, regardless of school size are $10. Payment of dues must be received in the FHSAA Office by September 30. Per FHSAA Bylaw 3.10.1, schools will be suspended from membership after September 30, if dues have not been paid. In order for the suspended school to be reinstated, it must pay dues and an additional reactivation fee stated in 9.2.3 prior to December 31. Failure to pay late dues and reactivation fee by December 31 will result in termination from membership. 9.2.1.4 First-Time Middle/Junior High Schools. Dues for the first school year of membership are considered paid within the membership application fee and no further membership dues will be assessed during the first year. 9.2.2 Membership Fees. 9.2.2.1 Application Fee for First-Time Members. A school applying for first-time membership must pay a non-refundable $150 application fee. A school applying for first-time middle school membership must pay a non-refundable $60 application fee. 9.2.3 Reactivation of Suspended and Re-admission of Former Member Schools. Reactivation fees for a member school that has been suspended based on failure to pay member dues by the deadline established in Policy 9.2.1 is $125 for high schools and $50 for middle schools. A former member school that applies for re-admission will be assessed an administrative fee of $250 for high schools and $75 for middle/junior high schools (this is in addition to the member application fee as per Bylaw 3.6.1.2).

9.3.1 Senior High Schools. 9.3.1.1 Renewing Members. The member’s share of legal costs of the FHSAA for a senior high school renewing its membership for the current school year shall be determined by taking the total legal expense incurred by the FHSAA during the previous school year, subtracting the total flat fee assessed junior high school and middle school members, and dividing the balance equally by the total number of senior high school members at the close of the previous school year. The total legal expense includes all attorney’s fees, court costs, settlements, and judgments. 9.3.1.2 New Members. A senior high school joining the Association effective with the current school year will not be assessed legal cost sharing in its initial year of membership. 9.3.2 Middle/Junior High Schools. The member’s share of legal costs of the FHSAA for a renewing middle/junior high school member shall be $25. 9.3.2.1 New Members. A middle/junior high school joining the Association effective with the current school year will not be assessed legal cost sharing in its initial year of membership. 56 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

9.5.1 A non-refundable administrative fee shall be assessed each member school making an application for approval to host a preseason event in the sports listed in Policy 9.5.1.1 - 9.5.1.3. The administrative fee is due to the FHSAA within 30 days following the event. If payment is received beyond this deadline, a late fee of $50 may be assessed. Refer to Policy 7 for the sanctioning process, application deadlines and late application fees. There are no financial reporting requirements for the events listed below. See Policy 9.9 for the administrative fee for football classics and bowl games. 9.5.1.1 The administrative fee in the sports of baseball, basketball, soccer, and softball shall be $100. 9.5.1.2 The administrative fee in the sports of girls volleyball and boys wrestling shall be $75. 9.5.1.3 The administrative fee in the sports of track & field, cross country, swimming & diving shall be $50. 9.5.1.4 There is no FHSAA prior approval process or administrative fee or financial reporting requirements for school participation in preseason events in the sports of tennis, golf, bowling, competitive cheerleading, flag football, water polo, boys volleyball, lacrosse, girls wrestling, beach volleyball, boys weightlifting, and girls weightlifting. However, member host schools for these sports must follow NFHS fees and requirements for events involving teams from out of state.

9.6.1 Preseason and Post Season Jamborees, Classics, Tournaments and Meets. The admission price to preseason and post season Jamborees, Classics, Tournaments, Meets and Bowl Games in all sports, including any student discounts, shall be determined, and stated within the contest contract by the host school.

10.1.1 Participation is for Member Senior High Schools. Participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series is limited to varsity participation and only to those senior high schools that are members of the Association for that sport(s). Compensation for expenses of schools competing in a Florida High School State Championship Series is not guaranteed. 10.1.2 Participation is Voluntary. Participation in the Florida High School State Championship Series in each sport by a school is voluntary and is limited to varsity participation only. It, however, is the preference of the Board of Directors that every eligible school that can and should participate, do so. 10.1.3 Option for Independent Status. A school for legitimate reasons may exercise the option of independence. Such reasons include but are not limited to a newly opening school; a school that has consistently been unable to compete in the classification to which it is assigned; a school that is geographically isolated and chooses not to participate for financial reasons; a school whose educational philosophies prohibit such extended athletic participation; or a school that does not or cannot compete for religious reasons. The option of independence is not intended for use by one or more schools organizing in protest of the Association’s policies and/or to establish a postseason championship competition separate from the Florida High School State Championship Series. • Any such effort by a group of member schools to declare independence in a sport and organize a conference or league with the intent of conducting any form of playoff to determine a champion(s) after the conclusion of FHSAA-approved regular season competition is prohibited unless approved by the FHSAA Board of Directors. • All competitions to determine a champion(s) that are conducted by conferences or leagues whose members also are members of the FHSAA must be conducted in accordance with school contest limitations per Policy 6.1.2.

10.3.1 Protesting Actions of Another School. Any member school filing a protest over the eligibility of a student, or the actions of a member school shall submit to the Executive Director in writing a full statement of the facts signed by the principal. The Executive Director shall provide the accused party or parties with a copy of the accusation and determine if the allegations warrant an investigation. If allegations concerning the eligibility of a student warrant an investigation, The procedures outlined in Policy 39 (Policy on Investigative Procedures), which shall be in full compliance with § 1006.20(2)(g), F.S. will be followed for such investigations. B 10 COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT 36 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 10.3.2 Protesting Actions of Contest Officials. The decisions of contest officials shall be final and not subject to review. Member schools should file reports with the Executive Director of unsatisfactory performance by contest officials which may be due to alleged lack of knowledge of the rules, errors in judgment or improper conduct.

10.6.1 Allegations and Protests. Allegation and/or protesting actions of another school received less than forty-five (45) days prior to the beginning of Florida High School State Championship Series competition in a sport may not be concluded prior to the conclusion of the sport’s championship series (corresponding with Bylaw 10.3). 10.6.2 Withholding Information. Member schools (or persons defined in Bylaw 1.4.17) who intentionally withhold information impacting Florida High School State Championship Series participation shall be considered unethical and unsportsmanlike and addressed in accordance with Policy 46.

10.6.6.1 Written Notice of Appeal. To be considered by the appropriate appeals committee, the school’s written notice of appeal of the findings of fact or the penalty imposed, or both, must be received in the FHSAA Office not later than 10 business days from the date that the school receives the FHSAA staff’s decision in secondary cases, or confirms its receipt of the infractions report in major cases. The notice of appeal must indicate whether the school will submit its appeal in writing only or whether it will appear before the appeals committee at the time the appeal is considered. The school must submit supporting information for its appeal, if any, to the FHSAA Office by the deadline established by the FHSAA. 10.6.6.1.1 Appeal of Secondary Violations. Sectional Appeals Committees hear and act on appeals of secondary cases. 10.6.6.1.2 Appeal of Major Violations. The Infractions Appeals Committee hears and acts on appeals of major cases. 10.6.6.2 Basis for Granting an Appeal 10.6.6.2.1 Appeal of Findings. An appeals committee may set aside findings of fact and violations arrived at ONLY if the school shows that: (a) The finding of the FHSAA staff is clearly not supported by evidence that is credible, persuasive and of a kind on which reasonably prudent persons rely in the conduct of serious affairs; (b) The school’s actions do not constitute a violation of FHSAA rules; or (c) A procedural error affected the reliability of the information that was used to support the FHSAA staff’s finding. In this case, the school must demonstrate how it contends the staff was in error. 10.6.6.2.2 Appeal of Penalties. An appeals committee may set aside a penalty imposed by the FHSAA staff if the appeals committee determines that the penalty is excessive or inappropriate based on all the evidence and circumstances. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 41 Revised February 20, 2025 10.6.6.2.3 Committee Acts on Basis of Record in Case. An appeals committee can act only on the basis of the record in the case. This record consists of the notice of inquiry and/or allegations to the school, the report of the investigator and the written response by the school. 10.6.6.2.3.1 New Evidence. The appeals committee may stay an appeal when new information is introduced and refer the case back to the FHSAA staff for review if the committee concludes that: (a) The new information was not available, and through the exercise of reasonable due diligence could not have been available, at the time the FHSAA staff issued its finding; and (b) The new information is demonstrably relevant to the findings of the staff. 10.6.6.3 Appeal of Unfavorable Decision by Appeals Committee. A school that is unsuccessful in its appeal to the Sectional Appeals Committee or Infractions Appeals Committee may appeal the committee’s decision to the FHSAA Board of Directors. The school’s written notice of appeal of the committee’s decision must be received in the FHSAA Office not later than five business days from the date of the hearing before the appeals committee. The notice of appeal must indicate whether the school will submit its appeal in writing only, or whether it will appear before the Board of Directors at the time the appeal is considered. 10.6.6.3.1 Board Acts on Basis of Record in Case. The Board of Directors can act only on the basis of the record in the case. This record consists of the information that was available to the appeals committee at the time it rendered its decision. The Board of Directors may stay an appeal when new information is introduced and refer the case back to the FHSAA staff for review per the conditions of paragraph 10.6.6.2.3.1.

10.6.7.1 Request for an Emergency Appeal. A request for an emergency appeal shall be filed with the Executive Director within 48 hours after the member school learns that there is a need for a decision before the matter can be considered at a regularly scheduled meeting of the Sectional Appeals Committee. Failure to file a request within 48 hours shall be deemed a waiver of the right of an emergency appeal. 10.6.7.2 Teleconference. By requesting a hearing by the Emergency Appeals Committee, the member school consents to such a hearing being conducted by teleconference and shall be governed by Bylaw 4.1.3.1. 10.6.7.3 Cost of Emergency Appeal. By requesting a hearing by the Emergency Appeals Committee, the member school agrees to pay all expense including expenses such as the cost of the teleconference and the costs of the stenographic recording of such hearing. 10.6.8 Recording of Appellate Hearings. All appellate hearings shall be under oath and stenographically recorded by a bona fide court reporter.

This Association may conduct state championships to determine the official state champion(s) in those sports that are sanctioned by the Board of Directors. The privilege to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series will be limited only to those senior high schools and combination schools that are duly elected to membership in this Association. The Board of Directors will determine the sports in which state championships are to be conducted and will establish the terms and conditions for each state championship. CONSTITUTIONAL BYLAW, ARTICLE 3 Membership

Student-athletes, coaches, administrators, spectators, and all other persons connected directly or indirectly with a member school, as well as contest officials, shall adhere to the principles of good sportsmanship and the ethics of competition before, during and after all contests in which they participate and/or attend. 30.1.1 Reporting of Unsportsmanlike Acts. Schools are required to report an unsportsmanlike act or flagrant foul that led to an ejection of student-athlete(s), coach(es), or other representative(s) of the school’s athletic interests, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, within one (1) school day of the incident. The report should include the name of the individual involved, a detailed account of the incident, video of the incident, if available, and any other pertinent documentation of information which the school believes may be relevant. 30.1.2 Penalties Assessed the School. 30.1.2.1 Storming the playing field, court, or pool by spectators and students during or at the conclusion of an athletic contest may result in a monetary penalty of a minimum of $250 for indoor events or $500 for outdoor events and may be increased depending on the severity of the incident and/or other sanctions. 30.1.2.2 Removal by coach or school personnel of a team or individual from an athletic contest prior to its normal conclusion may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $250 and/or other sanctions. 30.1.2.3 Vandalism by a team, student -athlete, coach or school personnel may result in a minimum $250 monetary penalty and/or other sanctions, or any other penalties as outlined in Bylaw 10.1, in addition to the school being financially responsible for restitution of the item(s) vandalized.

The decision to disqualify (eject) a student-athlete, coach, or other representative of the school’s athletic interests (see Bylaw 1.4.17) from a contest is a decision of the contest official or FHSAA Administrator. Any penalties imposed may be appealed to the Executive Director or his/her designee, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, and, from there, through the normal appeals procedures. All periods of ineligibility (suspensions) remain in effect during any such appeal unless and until they are modified or reversed. POLICY 31 USE OF ALCOHOL, TOBACCO, HUMAN GROWTH HORMONES, STEROIDS, PERFORMANCE-ENHANCING DRUGS AND SCHEDULE 3 NARCOTICS 31.1 Use of Alcohol and Tobacco. The use of alcohol, tobacco, tobacco-like products, e-cigarettes, vapor-generating electronic devices and other electronic nicotine delivery systems by student-athletes, coaches and officials is prohibited during the contest and in the vicinity of the playing field or court. A coach or student-athlete in violation of this policy is guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct, will be ejected from the contest and will be suspended from subsequent contests in accordance with the FHSAA Policy on Unsportsmanlike Conduct. Additionally, the official must report any violation of this policy by either a student-athlete or coach to the FHSAA Office. Violation of this policy by a student-athlete or coach will subject the school to a minimum monetary penalty of $100. Violation of this policy by an official will subject the official to a minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions or suspension or both.

34.1.1 Representatives of a school’s athletic interest, as defined in Bylaw 1.4.17, of a visiting school may not photograph, film, or videotape their team’s or contestants’ performance in a contest without first obtaining permission from the host school principal or his/ her designee. Photographers, videographers, and their equipment must be positioned so that they do not block the view of any spectator. 34.1.2 No representative of a school’s athletic interest of a school that is not participating in a contest may photograph, film or videotape all or any part of the contest unless permission to do so is granted by the principal or his/her designee of each school that is participating in the contest. 34.1.3 It is recommended that schools videotape injury situations, postgame handshakes and any unsportsmanlike incidents that may occur during any athletic contest.

34.4.1 A school that violates this policy shall be guilty of unsportsmanlike conduct and will be subject to reprimand and the assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $100 and/or other sanctions by the FHSAA. 34.4.2 An organization or individual who violates this policy, and in so doing infringes upon the rights of the FHSAA, as stated hereinabove, shall be subject to one (1) or more of the following actions: remedies under breach of contract; revocation of credentials; expulsion from the site of competition; and legal action under applicable state and federal laws. POLICY 35 BOARDING SCHOOLS, HOMESTAY PROGRAMS AND SPORTS ACADEMIES

4.4.3.1 Selection. Each constituent group will select its representatives to the four Sectional Appeals Committees. The FHSAA Office will conduct an election in each administrative section to determine the school representatives who will serve on the committee. All school representatives within the section may vote in this election. 4.4.3.2 Term of Service. The term of service for a member of each Sectional Appeals Committee will be three school years. A committee member may be reelected to a second three-year term but cannot serve more than a maximum of six consecutive school years.

4.6.1.1 Positions Held by School Representatives. The FHSAA Office will conduct elections for school representative positions on the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors and Sectional Appeals Committees at such time as adopted by the Board of Directors each year in each administrative section as follows: 4.6.1.1.1 Declaration of Candidacy. The FHSAA Office will notify FHSAA Representatives of elections that must be held and will place on the Internet a declaration of candidacy form for each race. An FHSAA Representative who wants to run in a particular race and is eligible to do so must download, complete, and submit to the FHSAA Office the form for that race. The form must be completed, signed, and received in the FHSAA Office by the deadline listed on the form to be valid. An FHSAA Representative who is not a principal must have the form signed by his/her principal granting him/her permission to run. An FHSAA Representative who wants to run in more than one race may do so but must file the appropriate form for each race. 4.6.1.1.2 General Election. The FHSAA Office will provide each FHSAA Representative of each constituency group, who is eligible to vote in the general election, a ballot for that constituency group. The ballot will list the names of all candidates in each race. The school representative may vote for only one candidate in each race and will be allowed 5 business days from the date the ballot is first provided to complete and submit the ballot. The candidate in each race, of each constituency group, receiving the majority of votes cast will be the winner. 4.6.1.1.2.1 Provisional Member School Representatives. The FHSAA Representative of a school that is in its provisional period of membership is not eligible to run for election. 4.6.1.1.3 Run-Off Election. If no candidate receives a majority of the votes in the general election, the FHSAA Office will provide to each FHSAA Representative who is eligible to vote in the run-off election a second ballot. The run-off ballot will list the names of the candidates who received the most and second-most votes in the general election. The FHSAA Representative may vote for only one candidate in the race and will be allowed 5 business days from the date the ballot is first provided to complete and submit the ballot. The candidate receiving the majority of votes cast will be the winner. 4.6.1.1.4 Tie in Elections. The Board of Directors, by majority vote during its final regularly scheduled meeting of the school year, will determine a winner in any election that ends in a tie. Each candidate shall have the opportunity to submit a resume to the Board of Directors for its consideration. 4.6.1.2 Positions Held by District School Superintendents and District School Board Members. The Florida Association of District School Superintendents and the Florida School Boards Association will determine the method for electing their representatives to the Representative Assembly, Board of Directors and Sectional Appeals Committees and will conduct those elections. B 4 ORGANIZATION AND GOVERNANCE 18 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

5.1.1 Senior High Schools Required to Attend. Member senior high schools are required to attend, every two years, an association approved compliance seminar. 5.1.2 Rotating Seminars Every Two Years. Compliance seminars will be conducted every school year for two (2) of the four (4) administrative sections. Seminars for administrative sections 1 and 3 will occur in odd years, and seminars for administrative sections 2 and 4 will occur in even years. 5.1.3 Continuing Member Schools. A continuing member senior high school required to attend a compliance seminar must be represented by its principal, athletic director or FHSAA representative. 5.1.4 First Year Provisional Member Schools. A school in its application year of membership must be represented at the New Member School Compliance Seminar by its principal, athletic director and FHSAA representative. 5.1.5 Continuing Provisional Member Schools. A continuing provisional member senior high school must be represented at an association approved compliance seminar by its principal, athletic director or FHSAA representative until full membership is achieved. 5.1.6 First Time Athletic Directors. Schools that have an athletic director who is in the position for the first time in the state of Florida will be required to attend an association approved compliance seminar that year. Attending an association approved compliance seminar in an administrative section that is not the same as the school’s sectional rotation, as defined in Policy 5.1.2, will not alter the rotation for required attendance at future association approved compliance seminars. First time athletic directors who were appointed after the previously scheduled compliance seminars must attend the Mid-Year Compliance Seminar if one is scheduled. 5.1.7 Make-Up Compliance Seminar. A Make-Up Compliance Seminar may be conducted each year for those athletic directors who were appointed after the previously scheduled compliance seminars or those athletic directors who have been directed to attend or need additional assistance. 5.1.8 Choice of Seminar Site. Continuing member schools attending a compliance seminar may choose from any association approved compliance seminar held in the state that year. 5.1.9 Required Attendance. Schools attending a compliance seminar in a year not required to attend will not alter the rotation for required attendance at future compliance seminars. 5.1.10 Failure to Attend. Failure to attend a required compliance seminar may subject the school to a minimum $250 monetary penalty and/or other sanctions. 5.1.11 Cost of Attendance. Member schools will be invoiced for each attendee after the conclusion of the compliance seminar.

7.1 School Representatives ....................................... 19 7.2 Unsportsmanlike Conduct .................................... 20

8.7.1 Florida High School State Championship Series. For the purpose of determining the official state champion(s) in those sports that are recognized or sanctioned by the Board of Directors, this Association may conduct a Florida High School State Championship Series. 8.7.1.1 Determining Which Schools Are Eligible. Participation is limited to member senior high schools, combination schools and home education co-ops only. This excludes member middle or junior high schools and non-member senior high schools. 8.7.1.2 Determining Which Sports Are Eligible. The Board of Directors shall determine which sports will conduct a Florida High School State Championship Series and shall set the terms and conditions of each series. 8.7.1.3 Commitment Form. Member schools choosing to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series must complete and submit to the Association a binding “Commitment Form.” 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 23 Revised February 20, 2025 8.7.2 Disbursement of Funds Raised. Member schools which host a Florida High School State Championship Series shall disperse funds in accordance with conditions established by the Board of Directors. Failure to do so will result in restrictive probation for all sports until proper remuneration is made. 8.7.3 Officials Assignments. The assignment of officials to officiate during the Florida High School State Championship Series will be made by the assignment officer of the local association at the district level and by the FHSAA Office at the regional and state level. The officials assigned to these contests are independent contractors and are not employees of the local associations or the FHSAA.

8.8.1 General Principles. The Board of Directors shall adopt season limitations in each sport which conducts a Florida High School State Championship Series. These limitations shall establish the earliest and latest permissible dates for practice and competition, as well as the maximum number of regular season contests in each sport. The limitation on boys and girls will be the same for common sports. Member schools shall not conduct practice or competition in a sport during the established off-season for that sport. 8.8.1.1 Season Limitations Exceptions. A member school may request approval from the Executive Director to set aside the Season Limitations of Bylaw 8.8.1 to allow a member school to practice and compete outside the established dates for a specific sport. The following conditions must be in place for a request to be approved: (a) The start date for a given sport season is delayed statewide by four (4) weeks or more; and (b) The school agrees to withdraw from the State Series in that specific sport. 8.8.1.2 Requesting an Exception. When a sport season is delayed statewide by four (4) weeks or more, the Executive Director may approve a request to allow a school to participate outside of the revised sport season dates, provided the request meets one of the following: 8.8.1.2.1 Request to Participate During the Original Established Sport Season. A school may request to start the sport season earlier than the revised dates, provided: (a) The school agrees to start the sport season no earlier than the original established start date for practices and contests; and (b) The school agrees to complete the sport season by the end of the original established date for that sport. 8.8.1.2.2 Request to Participate After the Completion of a Revised Sport Season. A school may request to start the sport season after the completion of the revised dates, provided: (a) The school agrees to start the sport season no earlier than the Monday following the revised state series calendar for that sport. The school may not practice or compete during the revised sport season; and (b) The school agrees to complete the sport season within the number of weeks established in the original sport season calendar. 8.8.2 Off-Season. The Board of Directors shall establish guidelines to govern interactions between member schools and student-athletes during the off-season. The off-season is the period of time outside the season limitations for a sport but during the school year.

1.4.1 Bylaws and Policies or FHSAA Bylaws and Policies – refers to the rules and regulations of this Association that have been adopted by a majority vote of the Board of Directors, or revised by the Commissioner of Education, and ratified by the State Board of Education. 1.4.2 Regulations or FHSAA Regulations – refers to the FHSAA Bylaws and Policies. 1.4.3 Administrative Year – refers to the period of time that begins on July 1 and continues to June 30. 1.4.4 School/Academic/Athletic Year – refers to the period of time which begins with the first day of practice for the fall sports or the first day of classes, whichever comes first for an individual school, and continues until the last day of classes for an individual school. 1.4.5 Summer – refers to the period of time which begins on the first day following the last day of classes for an individual school and continues through the Saturday preceding the first of day of practice for the fall sports. 1.4.6 Permissible Contact – refers to the time in which a coach is allowed to meet with athletes for the purpose of conducting tryouts, demonstrating, and instructing sport-specific skills and techniques, and practices for a given sport. 1.4.7 Start of a Sports Season – commences with the first day of permissible contact for the given sport as determined in the FHSAA Planning Calendar. 1.4.8 End of a Sports Season – concludes with the last regular season contest for the given sport or the contest in which an individual school has been eliminated from, or has been named the overall champion of, the Florida High School State Championship Series for the given sport as determined in the FHSAA Planning Calendar. 1.4.9 Fiscal Year – refers to the period of time that begins on July 1 and continues to June 30. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 5 Revised February 20, 2025 1.4.10 Calendar Year – refers to 365 continuous days. 1.4.11 Standardized Calendar – refers to the calendar in which each week is numbered 1 through 52, with Week 1 beginning the first Sunday in July. 1.4.12 Semester – refers to that period of time approximately equal to one-half of an academic year (approximately 90 days), with August through December/January as the first semester and January through May/June as the second semester. 1.4.13 One Full Semester – defined as being in attendance and earning a grade for an entire semester period (i.e., August through December/January as the first semester and January through May/June as the second semester). 1.4.14 Team Sport – refers to any sport in which competition is held between two collective groups of individuals in which winning or losing is by the group as opposed to by individuals (i.e., baseball, basketball, competitive cheerleading, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball, volleyball, water polo, etc.). Only team honors are awarded in team sports. 1.4.15 Individual Sport – refers to any sport in which competition is held between or among individuals in which winning or losing is by individuals (i.e., bowling, cross country, golf, swimming & diving, tennis, track & field, weightlifting, wrestling, etc.). Team and individual honors are awarded in individual sports. 1.4.16 Athletic Activities – refers to contact between coaches and student-athletes including, but not limited to conditioning, weightlifting, tryouts, practices, intra-squad scrimmages and contests. 1.4.17 Representative of a School’s Athletic Interests – refers to any independent person, business, organization, or group that participates in, assists with and/or promotes that school’s interscholastic athletic program. This includes: (a) A student-athlete or other student participant in the athletic program at that school; (b) The parents, guardians or other family members of a student-athlete or other student participant in the athletic program at that school; (c) Immediate relatives of a coach or other member of the athletic department staff at that school; (d) A volunteer with that school’s athletic program; (e) A member of an athletic booster organization of that school; (f) A person, business, organization, or group that makes financial or in-kind contributions to the athletic department or that is otherwise involved in promoting the school’s interscholastic athletic program. 1.4.18 Grading Period – A grading period is defined as one semester. A semester is defined as one half of a school year (approximately 18 school weeks or 90 school days). 1.4.19 Member School – refers to a senior high school, middle/junior high school, a combination school, or home education cooperative that is provisionally admitted or duly elected to membership in the Association. 1.4.20 Secondary Violations – Secondary violations are those that are isolated or inadvertent in nature or provide little or no competitive advantage. 1.4.21 Major Violations – Major violations are those that are committed intentionally, or that provide a significant competitive advantage, or are committed due to a lack of administrative control of the interscholastic athletic program regardless of whether the school claims ignorance of the rule(s) violated, including, but not limited to, knowingly allowing an ineligible student to participate in a contest or violations to the recruiting and sportsmanship policies of the association (§ 1006.20(2)(f)1, F.S.) . Multiple secondary violations may together be considered a major violation. A secondary violation committed by a school already on probation may be considered a major violation. 1.4.22 Residence – Residence as used throughout the rules and regulations of this association is used in two contexts; “school residence,” meaning the school at which student attends or represents and “physical residence,” meaning the location at which a student lives. A student cannot occupy a physical residence at more than one address, and only the student’s current physical residence may be used for eligibility purposes. For those students who are required to have multiple physical residences by a court of competent jurisdiction, please refer to Bylaw 9.2.1.3. 1.4.23 Athletic Activities Affiliated with a School – Athletic activities affiliated with a school are any athletic activities not sponsored by the school but are organized, coached and/or supervised by a school employee, athletic department staff member, or representative of the school’s athletic interests or in which the majority of participants are students who attend the school. 1.4.24 Principal – A “principal” is the administrator responsible for the day-to-day operation of a school, whether the individual’s specific title is principal, headmaster, director, administrator, head of school or otherwise. The principal is responsible for the conduct of the school’s interscholastic athletic programs. 1.4.25 FHSAA Representative – An “FHSAA representative” is the school representative who represents on behalf of the school in its relationship with the Association. The FHSAA representative is the principal unless the principal delegates the task to an assistant principal or the athletic director. The principal, however, cannot delegate the ultimate responsibility for the conduct of the school’s interscholastic athletic programs (§ 1006.20(3)(b), F.S.). 1.4.26 Calendar Week – A “calendar week” is the seven (7) consecutive days Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. B 1 NAME, PURPOSE, OBJECTIVES, GENERAL TERMS & FUNDAMENTAL BELIEF 6 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 1.4.27 School Week – A “school week” is the six (6) consecutive days Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. 1.4.28 Academic Week – An “academic week” is the five (5) consecutive days Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday; excluding any of these days for which students are not required to attend school by the school or school district. 1.4.29 Guardianship – Guardianship must be appointed legally by a court of competent jurisdiction (§ 744.102(5), F.S. and 744.102(9), F.S.). 1.4.30 Traditional Student – Traditional students are students who are enrolled in and physically attend the school at which they participate, except for Dual Enrolled or Early Admission students. 1.4.31 Non-Traditional Student – Non-Traditional Students are students who are not enrolled in and do not physically attend the school at which they participate. 1.4.32 Combination Middle School Program – A combination senior high school that participates in middle school athletics in one or more sports recognized or sanctioned by this association is considered to have a middle school program and must indicate such on its annual membership application. The middle school teams will be limited to grades 6 through 8. 1.4.33 Clear and Convincing Evidence – Clear and convincing evidence is evidence that is precise, explicit, lacking in confusion and of such weight that it produces a firm belief or conviction, without hesitation, about the matter in issue. 1.4.34 Athletic Program – a school is considered to have an “Athletic Program” if it offers one or more sports at the interscholastic or intramural level. 1.4.35 Sub-varsity Participation – Sub-varsity participation is participation as an individual in an individual sport or as a team member in a team sport where such participation does not affect the outcome of a varsity contest or event. Individual sub-varsity participation is for exhibition only. Team sub-varsity participation is team competition on, but not limited to, a freshman team, junior varsity team, B-Squad team, etc. Sub-varsity participation is open to all grade levels of the school at which the student participates. 1.4.36 Home Zoned Public School – the home zoned public school is the public school the student would be assigned according to the district school board attendance area policies. 1.4.37 Preponderance of the Evidence – Preponderance of the evidence is defined to mean the evidence which is at the greater weight or more convincing than the evidence which is offered in opposition to it. 1.4.38 Charter School – A charter school, by state statutes, is considered a public school (s.1002.33(1) FS).

10.1.1 General Principles. The Executive Director shall have the authority to direct audits and compliance reviews and to investigate all alleged violations of this Association’s Bylaws, as well as regulations, guidelines, policies, or procedures established by the Board of Directors. The procedures outlined in Policy 39 (Policy on Investigative Procedures), which shall be in full compliance with Florida Statute 1006.20(2)(g), will be followed for such investigations. All findings shall be disclosed to the member school in writing, setting forth the findings of fact and specific violation upon which the decision is based. 10.1.1.1 Notification to Member School Representatives. The member school must notify any member school representative in writing who receives a sanction and/or penalty as a result of the decision rendered. 10.1.2 Penalties and Sanctions. The Executive Director shall have full authority to invoke one or more of the following penalties and/or sanctions against the violating school or person: (a) REPRIMAND—An official letter of censure to the concerned party in regard to the offense committed which warns against further violations. This letter will be kept on file for future reference. (b) FINE—A monetary payment. (c) FORFEIT—The forfeiture of an interscholastic athletic contest. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 35 Revised February 20, 2025 (d) PROBATION—Types of probation that may be imposed are as follows: 1) Administrative Probation—The school or person is reprimanded, fined, and served notice that it is in a period of warning for a minimum of one calendar year. Additional violations during this time will result in increased penalties which may include expulsion. 2) Restrictive Probation—The school or person faces the same penalties as administrative probation, with the additional consequence of restriction from participation in championship competition in one or more sports, or other restrictions deemed appropriate by the Executive Director, for one or more calendar years. 3) Suspension Probation—The school or person faces the same penalties as administrative probation, with the additional consequence of suspension from one or more sports for one or more calendar years. (e) EXPULSION—Involuntary termination of a school’s membership in the Association for one or more calendar years. Any member school that competes with a currently expelled school may subject itself to expulsion from the Association for one calendar year. 10.1.2.1 Restricted Membership. The Board of Directors, instead of expulsion, may restrict one, more or all the membership privileges of the school. The school remains a member even if all of its membership privileges are restricted. 10.1.3 Reimbursement of Expenses. A member school found to have committed a violation shall pay to this Association any expenses incurred related to such violation, including, but not limited to, the costs of the investigation, attorney’s fees and legal costs, and all other related costs. 10.1.3.1 If a member school is assessed a financial penalty as a result of a coach committing a major violation, the coach shall reimburse the member school before being allowed to coach, participate in, or attend any athletic activity sponsored, recognized, or sanctioned by the FHSAA and a member school (§ 1006.20(2)(f)3, F.S.). 10.1.4 Sanctions on Coaches. Sanctions placed upon an individual coach may include, but are not limited to, prohibiting, or suspending the coach from coaching, participating in, or attending any athletic activity sponsored, recognized, or sanctioned by the FHSAA and the member school for which the coach committed the violation. If a coach is sanctioned by the FHSAA and the coach transfers to another member school, those sanctions remain in full force and effect during the term of the sanction (§ 1006.20(2)(f)2, F.S.). 10.1.5 Court Injunctions. If a member school or student, in violation of or noncompliance with any provisions of this Association’s rules, competes based on an injunction or restraining order which is later voluntarily vacated, stayed, or reversed, or it is determined that injunctive relief is not or was not justified, they will still be subject to the penalties listed in 10.1.2.

16.1.5.1 Students. Students who qualify for an academic performance contract must have sat out of competition the full semester immediately following becoming academically ineligible, regardless of the level of participation (i.e., varsity, sub-varsity, middle school, etc.); during which time, or thereafter, the student must have entered into and fulfilled the requirements of the contract before participating in interscholastic competition the subsequent semester. 16.1.5.2 Schools 16.1.5.2.1 Reporting. Schools must report to the association, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, those students who have entered into a contract with the school or a previous school (where applicable). 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 71 Revised February 20, 2025 16.1.5.2.2 New and Transferring Students. It is the responsibility of the school to obtain a copy of the Academic Performance Contract from the previous school (where applicable) of those students who are new to or transferred to the school and entered into a contract with the previous school. 16.2 Schools with Alternate Scheduling Formats. 16.2.1 Grading Period. A grading period is defined as one semester. A semester is defined as one half of a school year (approximately 18 school weeks or 90 school days). This definition is applicable to all member schools regardless of the type of scheduling format (i.e., block, traditional, trimester, etc.) they use. 16.3 Special Schools and Special Programs. 16.3.1 Evaluation of Athletes. A student-athlete attending any special school or special program must be evaluated on a semester that is consistent with the semester for all other students attending the member school which the student-athlete represents. 16.3.2 Grade Point Average. The minimum grade point average requirement as stated in s.1006.15(3)(a)1, Florida Statutes, and the Association’s Bylaws must be maintained each semester by all student-athletes attending special schools or special programs regardless of the nature of the special school or special program. 16.4 U.S. Students Studying Abroad While the FHSAA acknowledges the benefits of U.S. students studying abroad as youth exchange program students, a student who studies abroad will do so at his/her own jeopardy in relation to the following: 16.4.1 Bylaw 9.4, as the student must include grades from all coursework attempted while studying abroad in his/her unweighted cumulative GPA. For athletic eligibility purposes, the school must include all such course work on the official transcript of the student. 16.4.2 Bylaw 9.5, as the student may not gain an additional year of eligibility due studying abroad for a semester or full school year.

16.5.1 Requirements of Cooperatives. A cooperative of home education programs may become a member of this Association provided: (a) the cooperative establishes a Board of Directors or governing body which appoints a designated representative to the FHSAA so far as the obligations of the cooperative to this Association are concerned; (b) the cooperative pays membership dues and other such fees as established by the FHSAA Board of Directors under the authority of these Bylaws; (c) each participating student has basic medical insurance coverage and has catastrophic insurance coverage provided by the cooperative or independently secured; (d) the cooperative purchases and maintains liability insurance coverage which names the FHSAA as an insured party; (e) the FHSAA representative certifies to the Executive Director on a form to be provided by the FHSAA Office that each student participating in interscholastic athletics in the cooperative meets the minimum grade point average standards which are required of all students; and (f) each student participating in interscholastic athletic competition is considered a “Non-Traditional” student and must be registered as a home education student with the school district in which the student resides, complete and submit an EL7 Form (Registration Form for Home Education Students), be registered with this association as per Policy 16.7 and comply with FHSAA eligibility requirements regarding age and limits of eligibility. 16.5.2 Ineligibility. A student who withdraws from a regular school program to enroll in a home education cooperative and who is ineligible at the time of withdrawal from the regular school program due to his/her failure to meet academic or behavioral eligibility standards shall be ineligible to compete in interscholastic athletic competition as a member of the home education cooperative until he/ she has successfully completed one full semester (see Bylaw 1.4.13) and has met all other eligibility requirements of this association. In determining the academic eligibility of a student who withdraws from a regular school program prior to the normal conclusion of the current semester and subsequently enrolls in a home education program, the grades as posted in each subject for that student on the date of his/her withdrawal from the regular school program shall be used. 16.5.3 Transfers. A student who is attending a school and transfers to a home education cooperative, who is representing a member school as a “Non-Traditional” student (as defined in 16.6.1) and transfers to a home education cooperative or who is representing a home education cooperative and transfer to a different home education cooperative must meet the provisions of Bylaw 9.3.2. 16.5.4 Athletic Competition. Home education cooperatives which become members of this Association may participate in interscholastic athletic competition as per Bylaw 8.3. Home education cooperatives shall be classified for Florida High School State Championship Series competition based on the total number of students participating in the cooperative in grades 9 through 12. P 16 ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA 72 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025

16.6.1 Eligibility for Participation. Non-Traditional students, as defined in Bylaw 1.4.31, are eligible to participate provided these specific requirements are met: 16.6.1.1 Home Education Students. The student must be registered as a home education student with the school district in which the student resides. The student is eligible to participate at the public school to which the student would be assigned according to district school attendance area policies, the public school which the student could choose to attend according to the controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.31 (including a charter or lab school), a private school that will accept the student for participation, or a Home Education Program Cooperative. Completion of an EL7 Form (Registration Form for Home Education Students) is required. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.1) 16.6.1.2 Charter School Students. The student must attend a charter school that does not sponsor an interscholastic athletic program in a sport in which the student desires to participate. The student is eligible to participate at the public school to which the student would be assigned according to district school attendance area policies, the public school which the student could choose to attend according to the controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.31, or a private school that will accept the student for participation. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.2) 16.6.1.3 Special/Alternative School Students. The student must attend an alternative school, or a special school operated by a school district identified by the Superintendent that does not offer an interscholastic athletic program for any sports. The student is eligible to participate at any public school located in the school district in which the student resides or a private school that will accept the student for participation. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.3) 16.6.1.4 Non-Member Private School Students. The student must attend a non-FHSAA member private school consisting of 200 students or fewer in the equivalent grade levels (i.e., 6-12, 7-12, 9-12, etc.) of the public school at which the student wishes to participate and does not offer the sport(s) in which the student wishes to participate. The student is eligible to participate at any member public school or member private school. Completion of an EL12 Form (Registration Form for Non-Member Private School Students) is required. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.4) 16.6.1.5 FLVS-FT Students. The student must be enrolled in the Florida Virtual School Full Time Public program (DOE #71-0801 or #71-0400). The student is eligible to participate at the public school to which the student would be assigned according to district school attendance area policies, the public school which the student could choose to attend according to controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.31, or a private school that will accept the student for participation. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.5) 16.6.1.6 Traditional Public School Students. The student must attend a traditional public school that does not sponsor an interscholastic athletics program in a sport in which the student desires to participate. The student is eligible to participate at any public school located in the school district in which the student resides or a private school that will accept the student for participation. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.6) 16.6.1.7 Public Transfer Students. The student must have participated in the sport prior to transferring to a new school. The student is eligible to continue participating in that sport at his/her previous school through the remainder of the school year. (See Bylaw 9.2.2.7) 16.6.2 Requirements for Participation. A Non-Traditional student is eligible to participate provided: (a) t he student meets the requirements established in FHSAA Bylaw 9.2.2 pertaining to the specific non-traditional student type; and (b) the student registers with the school his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletic competition as a representative of the school before participation (note, for the purposes of registering intent ONLY, the beginning of the sport season shall be the first day the student participates in the sport); and (c) the student complies with all FHSAA regulations, including eligibility requirements regarding age and limits of eligibility, and local school regulations during the time of participation; and (d) the student must not have been recruited to participate for the member school for athletic reasons by any individual or agency, whether or not associated with the school’s athletic interest, or selected or placed in the school on any basis related to his/her athletic interests or abilities, and as outlined in Policy 36. The student must complete and submit a GA4 Form with the school before the student added to a roster and allowed to participate in an interscholastic contest; and (e) the student provides proof of basic medical insurance coverage, and both independently secured catastrophic insurance coverage and liability insurance coverage which names the FHSAA as an insured party in the event the school’s insurance provider does not extend coverage to such students; and (f) the student provides his/her own transportation to and from the school; and (g) the student provides to school authorities all required forms and provisions. 16.6.3 Ineligibility. A student who withdraws from a regular school program to establish school residence as a “Non-Traditional” student (as defined in 16.6.1) and who is ineligible at the time of withdrawal from the regular school program due to his/her failure to meet academic or behavioral eligibility standards shall be ineligible to compete in interscholastic athletic competition under the provisions of 16.6.2 until he/she has successfully completed one full semester (see Bylaw 1.4.13) and has met all other eligibility requirements of this association. In determining the academic eligibility of a student who withdraws from a regular school program prior to the normal conclusion of the current semester and subsequently establishes school residence as a “Non-Traditional” student (as defined in 16.6.1), the grades as posted in each subject for that student on the date of his/her withdrawal from the regular school program shall be used. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 73 Revised February 20, 2025 16.6.4 Transfers. A student is considered a transfer student and must meet the provisions of Bylaw 9.3.2 if, after the beginning of the school year (see Bylaw 1.4.4) he/she: (a) Transfers from any school and establishes school residence as a “Non-Traditional” student (as referenced in 16.6.1 and 16.6.2); or (b) Transfers school residence as a “Non-Traditional” student (as referenced in 16.6.1 and 16.6.2) to any member school; or (c) Transfers school residence as one type of “Non-Traditional” student (as referenced in 16.6.1 and 16.6.2) and establishes school residence as “Non-Traditional” student of the same or different type (as referenced in 16.6.1 and 16.6.2). 16.6.4.1 Exception. A student, who after making a transfer as described in 16.6.4, does not change his/her affiliation with the member school, will continue to be eligible to represent the member school in interscholastic competition, provided all other eligibility requirements are met, including the completion and submission required forms, if applicable (i.e., EL7 Form, EL12 Form, EL14 Form, etc.).

(a) the school that the student attends may assist with locating and screening potential host families (Note: member schools that participate in locating and screening potential families must develop a written process which may be reviewed by the Association upon request), (b) no member of the school’s coaching staff may serve as the host family, (c) no representative of the school’s athletic interest, as defined in Bylaw 1.4.17(c-f), who is associated with the same sport as the youth exchange student, may serve as the host family; and (d) the host family placement must be approved by the national headquarters of the sponsoring CSIET organization for J-1 youth exchange students. This does not preclude a member school or its representatives from violations of the Association’s recruiting policy. Note: Certain CSIET agencies, including but not limited to the Rotary Youth Exchange Program, allow or require exchange students to change their host family mid-way through their stay, which will require the school to notify the FHSAA Office. If this change requires a change of schools the student will be classified a transfer student (see 17.1.5 below). 17.1.2.1 Host Family Restrictions. (a) A host family that wishes to host more than two youth exchange students per school each year, for the same sex and sport, must have approval of the Executive Director. (b) A host family that wishes to house more than four (4) youth exchange students in the same home, must have approval of the Executive Director. (c) Unless otherwise approved by the Executive Director, each youth exchange student must be roomed in a self-contained bedroom, with no more than one other occupant. 17.1.3 Visa Requirements. The youth exchange student must possess either an F-1 or a J-1 visa issued by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security or Department of State, respectively. The F-1 academic student program is a non-immigrant visa category intended for the use by nonresident students whose primary purpose for visiting the United States is to study full-time at an approved institution. The J-1 exchange visitor program is a non-immigrant visa category designed to promote mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries through bona fide educational and cultural exchange. 17.1.3.1 Exception: Citizens of Bermuda or Canada. In general, citizens of Bermuda and Canada do not need a visa to travel in the United States. However, these students must meet 17.1.1.1 and have a completed I-20 A-B Form as per the requirements of the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). 17.1.4 Attendance. 17.1.4.1 The J-1 youth exchange student must be in attendance at the school within the first twenty (20) days of the school year and must be enrolled in a full-year program, rather than a program of shorter duration such as a six-week, three-month or six-month program, etc. 17.1.4.1.1 Exception. A student who arrives within ten (10) school days after the start of the second semester of the FHSAA member school, after having completed the full school year in their home country coinciding with the end of the first semester of the FHSAA member school and provided the student has not completed the terminal grade in the home country, may be eligible. 17.1.4.2 The F-1 youth exchange student must attend classes within the first ten (10) school days of a semester. Otherwise, the student will not be eligible until: (a) The student has made up all class work missed during his/her absence; and (b) The student has attended one school day for each school day missed. 17.1.5 Transfer. Any subsequent transfer by the student to a different school during the school year must meet the provisions in Bylaw 9.3.2. 17.1.6 Eligibility for One Year Only. The J-1 youth exchange student may be eligible for a maximum of one year at any school or combination of schools, in this or any other of the United States, commencing with his/her initial date of enrollment in a U.S. school. The F-1 youth exchange student, pursuant to federal law, attending a public school is eligible to remain in the U.S. for a maximum of one year and must reimburse the public school for the cost of his/her U.S. education. 17.1.6.1 A youth exchange student (J-1 or F-1) is not permitted to return for any additional years using a different youth exchange Visa (i.e., J-1 or F-1) and participate in interscholastic athletics. 17.1.7 Placed in Academic Track. The student must be placed in a traditional academic track that leads to a high school diploma by the member school. 17.1.8 Must Not Have Been Recruited. The student must not have been recruited to attend the member school for athletic reasons by any individual or agency, whether or not associated with the school’s athletic interest, or selected or placed in the school on any basis related to his/her athletic interests or abilities, as outlined in Policy 36. The student must complete and submit a GA4 Form with the school, in addition to the requirements in Policy 17.3, before the student can be added to a roster and allowed to participate in an interscholastic contest. 76 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 17.1.9 Financial Assistance. No individual or agency associated with the school’s athletic interest may provide financial assistance to the international student in gaining necessary visas, assist in the payment of the student’s transportation to the U.S., or contribute to the student’s living expenses while in the U.S. 17.1.10 Student Must be an Undergraduate. The youth exchange student must not have completed the terminal grade in either the U.S. or his/her home country. Youth exchange students will not be eligible once they have completed the terminal grade in either the U.S. or their home country. The terminal grade of the student is based on the graduation requirements of the country the student last attended school, including the completion of the GED or its equivalent. 17.1.11 FHSAA Eligibility. The student must meet all other eligibility standards of the FHSAA Bylaws while a student at a member school. The high school limit of eligibility (Bylaw 9.5.1) is based on the compulsory education requirements of the student’s former country. The ninth (9th) year of compulsory education begins the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period. The fact that a student’s former country may have a terminal grade beyond the twelfth (12th) year of compulsory education does not alter the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period in Bylaw 9.5.1. 17.1.12 Registration Procedures for Youth Exchange Students . All youth exchange students must be registered with this association each year, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, prior to participating at a member school. In addition to the completed EL4 Form (Registration Form for Youth Exchange, Other International or Immigrant Students), each of the following, but not limited, must be electronically submitted to the association: 17.1.12.1 Proof of Age. A scanned copy of the student’s original passport or original birth certificate (including translation, if necessary) or U.S. Visa . 17.1.12.2 International GPA Calculator. The school, with the assistance of the student, the host family, or the student’s parent(s)/legal guardian(s), must complete and submit a translation of the original language transcripts on a form provided by the association or an equivalent form provided by the school. 17.1.12.2.2.1 For athletic eligibility purposes, after the first semester of attendance at a member school, the school must include all transfer courses on an official transcript of the student and these courses must be reflected in the unweighted cumulative GPA for the student. This may require the completion and submission of a form provided by the association. 17.1.12.3 Original Language Transcripts. Students in grades 9-12 must provide a scanned copy of the original language transcripts (un-translated) from the school(s) previously attended by the student since entering the 8th year of compulsory education. Students in grades 6-8 must provide a scanned copy of the original language transcripts (un-translated) from the school(s) previously attended by the student during the previous two (2) consecutive semesters. 17.1.12.4 U.S. Customs Documentation. Youth exchange students must provide a scanned copy of the F-1 or J-1 “Certificate of Eligibility” (Form I-20 A-B or Form DS-2019, respectively). 17.1.12.5 Returning, Previously Approved Youth Exchange Students. Returning, previously approved youth exchange student (F-1 only) must submit electronically the EL4 Form, a scanned copy of their I-20 A-B, and a current Official Transcript/International GPA Calculator.

A “nonimmigrant” student who does not possess an F-1 or a J-1 visa, however, does possess a “dependent” form of the same temporary work visa as their parent(s)/legal guardian(s), a United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved immigrant student and other immigrant or un-documented students may be eligible to represent an FHSAA member school in interscholastic athletic competition under the following conditions: 17.2.1 Attendance. The student must attend classes within the first ten (10) school days of a semester. Otherwise, the student will not be eligible until: (a) The student has made up all class work missed during his/her absence; and (b) The student has attended one school day for each school day missed. 17.2.2 Placed in Academic Track. The student must be placed in a traditional academic track that leads to a high school diploma by the member school. 17.2.3 Must Not Have Been Recruited. The student must not have been recruited to attend the member school for athletic reasons by any individual or agency, whether or not associated with the school’s athletic interest, or selected or placed in the school on any basis related to his/her athletic interests or abilities, as outlined in Policy 36. The student must complete and submit a GA4 Form with the school, in addition to the requirements in Policy 17.3 (if applicable), before the student added to a roster and allowed to participate in an interscholastic contest. 17.2.4 Financial Assistance. No individual or agency associated with the school’s athletic interest may provide financial assistance to the student in gaining necessary visas or other immigration documents, assist in the payment of the student’s transportation to the U.S., or contribute to the student’s living expenses while in the U.S. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 77 Revised February 20, 2025 17.2.5 Student Must be an Undergraduate. The international student must not have completed the terminal grade in either the U.S. or the country the student last attended school. International students will not be eligible once they have completed the terminal grade in either the U.S. or their home country. The terminal grade of the student is based on the graduation requirements of the country the student last attended school, including the completion of the GED or its similar equivalent. 17.2.6 FHSAA Eligibility. The student must meet all other eligibility standards of the FHSAA Bylaws while a student at a member school. The high school limit of eligibility (Bylaw 9.5.1) is based on the compulsory education requirements of the student’s former country. The ninth (9th) year of compulsory education begins the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period. The fact that a student’s former country may have a terminal grade beyond the twelfth (12th) year of compulsory education does not alter the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period in Bylaw 9.5.1. 17.2.7 Registration Procedures for Other International and Immigrant Students. All other international and immigrant students must be registered with this association each year, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, prior to participation at a member school. In additional to the completed EL4 Form (Registration Form for Youth Exchange, Other International and Immigrant Students), each of the following, but not limited to, must be electronically submitted to the association: 17.2.7.1 Proof of Age. A scanned copy of the student’s original passport or original birth certificate (including translation, if necessary) or U.S. Visa. 17.2.7.2 International GPA Calculator. The school, with the assistance of the student, the host family, or the student’s parent(s)/legal guardian(s), must complete and submit a translation of the original language transcripts on a form provided by the association or an equivalent form provided by the school. 17.2.7.2.1 For athletic eligibility purposes, after the first semester of attendance at a member school, the school must include all transfer courses on an official transcript of the student and these courses must be reflected in the unweighted cumulative GPA for the student. This may require the completion and submission of a form provided by the association. 17.2.7.3 Original Language Transcripts. Students in grades 9-12 must provide a scanned copy of the original language transcripts (un-translated) from the school(s) previously attended by the student since entering the 8th year of compulsory education. Students in grades 6-8 must provide a scanned copy of the original language transcripts (un-translated) from the school(s) previously attended by the student during the previous two (2) consecutive semesters. 17.2.7.4 Returning, Previously Approved Other International and Immigrant Students. Returning, previously approved other international and immigrant students must submit electronically the EL4 Form and a current Official Transcript/International GPA Calculator. 17.2.7.5 Registration Exception. 17.2.7.5.1 Students with a “Permanent Resident” status do not have to be registered with this Association. 17.2.7.5.2 Students who possess a dependent form of the same temporary work visa as their parent(s)/legal guardian(s), a United States Customs and Immigration Services (USCIS) approved immigrant student or other immigrant or un-documented students do not have to be registered with the Association, provided the following two (2) criteria are met: (a) For students in grades 9-12, the student must have started and completed the 8th grade, or earlier, in a U.S. school and have the appropriate school records to verify this fact. For students in grades 6-8, the student must have started and completed the 5th grade, or earlier, in a U.S. school and have the appropriate school records to verify this fact. (b) The student must have resided with his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction for a minimum of the previous two (2) consecutive semesters.

18.2.1 Spring Football practice is a continuation of the regular fall football season. 18.2.1.1 A student who transfers schools during the school year after participating in fall football for another school must meet the provisions in Bylaw 9.3.2.2.1 or 9.3.2.2.2 to participate in the spring jamboree or classic : (a) Dependent children of active-duty military personnel whose move resulted from military orders. (b) Children who have been relocated due to a foster care placement in a different school zone. (c) Children who move due to a court-ordered change in custody due to separation or divorce, or the serious illness or death of a custodial parent. (d) Authorized for good cause in district, private or charter school board policy. 18.2.2 Spring practice is confined to a maximum of 20 sessions commencing with the Monday of Week 44 or the last 20 days of the school year, whichever comes first, inclusive of the spring jamboree or classic. 18.2.3 Students who are seniors may not participate in spring football practice. 18.2.4 Only those students who are enrolled and in attendance in a school may participate in spring football practice at that school. 18.2.5 Eighth grade students may participate in spring football practice at the public high school for which the students are zoned to attend or could choose to attend pursuant to § 1002.31, F.S. or § 1002.33, F.S. or at the private school at which the student has been accepted and will attend in the ninth grade the following school year under the following conditions: 18.2.5.1 The students may practice on or in the high school facility only if such practice is approved in writing to the FHSAA Office by the district school superintendent or head of school for private schools. 18.2.5.2 The students may be instructed in practice by high school coaches only if such instruction is approved in writing to the FHSAA Office by the district school superintendent or head of school for private schools. 18.2.5.3 The principal/head of school of both schools must give their permission in writing to the FHSAA Office for the students to participate in such practice. 18.2.5.4 The students must have catastrophic insurance coverage for such practice. 18.2.5.5 The students must have the written permission of their parents or legal guardians to participate in such practice on file in the school office. 18.2.5.6 The students must have undergone a physical examination within the last calendar year. 18.2.5.7 The students must not suffer any loss of time from school. 18.2.5.8 The students may not participate in a spring football jamboree or spring classic game. 18.2.5.9 The students may not participate in practice or have physical contact in any manner with student-athletes in the 9th, 10th or 11th grades who are members of the high school team. 18.2.6 Participation or non-participation in spring football shall not be used as a prerequisite for participation in football the following school year.

18.3.1 Spring Competitive Cheerleading practice is a continuation of the regular winter competitive cheerleading season. Consequently, a student who transfers schools must meet the provisions in Bylaw 9.3.2. 18.3.2 Spring practice is confined to a maximum of 20 sessions commencing with the Monday of Week 44 or the last 20 days of the school year, whichever comes first. 18.3.3 Students who are seniors may not participate in spring practice. 18.3.4 Only those students who are enrolled and in attendance in a school may participate in spring competitive cheerleading practice at that school. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 79 Revised February 20, 2025 18.3.5 Eighth grade students may participate in spring competitive cheerleading practice at the public high school for which the students are zoned to attend or could choose to attend pursuant to § 1002.31, F.S. or § 1002.33, F.S. or at the private school at which the student has been accepted and will attend in the ninth grade the following school year under the following conditions: 18.3.5.1 The students may practice on or in the high school facility only if such practice is approved in writing to the FHSAA Office by the district school superintendent or head of school for private schools. 18.3.5.2 The students may be instructed in practice by high school coaches only if such instruction is approved in writing to the FHSAA Office by the district school superintendent or head of school for private schools. 18.3.5.3 The principal/head of school of both schools must give their permission in writing to the FHSAA Office for the students to participate in such practice. 18.3.5.4 The students must have catastrophic insurance coverage for such practice. 18.3.5.5 The students must have the written permission of their parents or legal guardians to participate in such practice on file in the school office. 18.3.5.6 The students must have undergone a physical examination within the last calendar year. 18.3.5.7 The students must not suffer any loss of time from school. 18.3.6 Participation or non-participation in spring competitive cheerleading shall not be used as a prerequisite for participation in competitive cheerleading the following school year.

(a) A host family that wishes to host more than two students per school each year, of the same sex and sport, must have approval of the Executive Director. (b) A host family that wishes to house more than four (4) students in the same home, must have approval of the Executive Director. (c) Unless otherwise approved by the Executive Director, each student must be roomed in a self-contained bedroom, with no more than one other occupant. 35.2.4 Attendance. The student must be in attendance at the school within the first ten (10) days of the school year and must be enrolled in a full-year program, rather than a program of shorter duration such as a six-week, three-month or six-month program, etc. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 97 Revised February 20, 2025 35.2.5 Transfer. Any subsequent transfer by the student to a different school during the school year must meet the provisions in Bylaw 9.3.2. 35.2.6 Placed in Academic Track. The student must be placed in a traditional academic track that leads to a high school diploma by the member school. 35.2.7 Must Not Have Been Recruited. The student must not have been recruited to attend the member school for athletic reasons by any individual or agency, whether or not associated with the school’s athletic interest, or selected or placed in the school on any basis related to his/her athletic interests or abilities, as outlined in Policy 36. The student must complete and submit a GA4 Form with the school. 35.2.8 Financial Assistance. No individual or agency associated with the school’s athletic interest may provide financial assistance to the student. 35.2.9 Student Must be an Undergraduate. The student must not have completed the terminal grade in either the U.S. or any other country. The terminal grade of the student is based on the graduation requirements of the state or country the student last attended school, including the completion of the GED or its equivalent. 35.2.10 FHSAA Eligibility. The student must meet all other eligibility standards of the FHSAA Bylaws while a student at a member school. The high school limit of eligibility (Bylaw 9.5.1) is based on the compulsory education requirements of the student’s former state/country. The ninth (9th) year of compulsory education begins the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period. The fact that a student’s former state/country may have a terminal grade beyond the twelfth (12th) year of compulsory education does not alter the eight (8) consecutive semester eligibility period in Bylaw 9.5.1. 35.2.11 Registration Procedures. All home stay students must be registered with this association, utilizing the official Association process as approved by the Executive Director, prior to participation at a member school. 35.2.11.1 Penalties Assessed to Schools 35.2.11.1.1 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL2 form (Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation, see Bylaw 9.7) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 35.2.11.1.2 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed EL3 form (Consent and Release from Liability Certificate, see Bylaw 9.8) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $500 per student and/or other sanctions. 35.2.11.1.3 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed GA4 form (Affidavit of Compliance with the FHSAA Policy on Athletic Recruiting and Non-Traditional Student Participation) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per student and/or other sanctions. 35.2.11.1.4 Allowing students to participate (see Bylaw 9.2.1.2) without a completed and submitted EL4 form (Registration of Home Stay Student) will subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $100 per student and/or other sanctions.

37.2.1 General Regulation. No school employee, athletic department staff member, representative of the school’s athletic interests or third parties, such as an independent person, business, or organization, may be involved, directly or indirectly, in giving an impermissible benefit to any student or any member of his/her family for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics, or to any student-athlete who already attends a school. 37.2.2 Specific Prohibitions. Specifically prohibited arrangements, assistance or benefits include, but are not limited to, the following: 37.2.2.1 School-based financial assistance of any kind that exceeds the amount for which a student has been approved by an independent financial needs assessment company that is recognized by the FHSAA or otherwise is in excess of any supplemental assistance provided by a school to each and every student who qualifies for financial assistance. 37.2.2.2 Cash or like items, such as credit cards, debit cards, gift cards, gift certificates, coupons, or vouchers. 37.2.2.3 Gift of clothing, equipment, merchandise, or other tangible items. 37.2.2.4 Loans or assistance in securing a loan of any kind. 37.2.2.5 Payment for any work or service that is not performed or that is in excess of the amount normally paid for such work or service. 37.2.2.6 Free or reduced-cost transportation. 37.2.2.7 Living on a full- or part-time basis, regardless of whether rent is paid, with any school employee, athletic department staff member, representative of the school’s athletic interests, unless legal guardianship appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction has been obtained. 37.2.2.8 Free or reduced-cost rent for housing, vehicles, or other items. 37.2.2.9 Full or partial payment of moving expenses or assistance of any kind with an actual physical move. 37.2.2.10 Employment or assistance in securing employment or contractual arrangement of any kind for which compensation may be paid. 37.2.2.11 Free or reduced costs to attend a sport or skills camp. 37.2.2.12 Any other form of arrangement, assistance, discount, or benefit that is not generally available to other students in the school or their families or that is based in any way on athletic ability.

38.2.1 Disciplinary Measures. Any one or more of the penalties described in Article 10 of the FHSAA Bylaws may be imposed against a school for violating any provisions of this policy. These include: 38.2.1.1 Public reprimand; 38.2.1.2 Financial penalty of a minimum of $2,500 and/or other sanctions; 38.2.1.3 A form or combination of forms of probation (administrative, restrictive and/or suspension) for one or more years; 38.2.1.4 Prohibition against participating in certain interscholastic competitions, including Florida High School State Championship Series competitions, for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 38.2.1.5 Prohibition against participating in any interscholastic competition for one or more years in the sport(s) in which the violation(s) occurred; 38.2.1.6 Restricted membership for one or more years during which time some or all of the school’s membership privileges may be restricted or denied; and 38.2.1.7 Expulsion from membership in the Association for one or more years. P 38 FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 104 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 POLICY 39 INVESTIGATIVE PROCEDURES The FHSAA compliance staff receives information about possible violations from several different sources. Member schools, media reports, confidential/anonymous sources, parent(s) of student-athletes, and other individuals or sources may provide information to be used by this office. In addition to unsolicited information, the staff also cultivates sources that provide information about possible violations. 39.1 Responsibility for Investigations. The executive director, or his/her designee, will supervise all investigations, audits and/or compliance reviews. Investigations may be assigned to either FHSAA staff members or approved investigative consultants. The executive director will provide the member school with the specific allegations of an inquiry or investigation and the facts upon which the allegations are being made. The executive director will be responsible for making final rulings/determinations concerning any investigation (§ 1006.20(2)(e), F.S.). 39.2 Investigators. The approved FHSAA Investigative Consultant will (§ 1006.20(2)(e), F.S.): (a) meet Level 2 screening standards as per § 435.04, F.S.; and (b) be a licensed notary public, with the authority to place individuals under oath; and (c) have proper FHSAA photo identification; and (d) not determine matters of eligibility; and (e) submit information and evidence to the executive director or his/her designee for an unbiased and objective determination of eligibility; and (f) attend an FHSAA approved training session/orientation. 39.3 Nature of Investigations. Investigations will largely consist of, but not limited to, examinations of school records and any other documents, as well as interviews of individuals who are believed to have knowledge of possible violations or who are implicated in potential violations. 39.3.1 Interviews of Individuals. Approved FHSAA Investigative Consultants will make every reasonable effort to interview every individual implicated in a potential violation. Individuals, who are interviewed, may be provided with limited detail about the subject of the investigation to promote honest, candid responses and to protect the integrity of the process. FHSAA Investigative Consultants will conduct interviews on Monday through Friday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. only, unless previously agreed to by the interviewee. (§ 1006.20(2)(e), F.S.) 39.3.2 Documents, Correspondence and Other Materials. In addition to interviews, the investigative consultants may obtain significant supporting documentation, such as compliance files, academic records, e-mails, financial records, etc. 39.3.3 Additional Information or Evidence. Student athletes, parents, and schools may present to the association or to the investigative consultant, any information or evidence that is credible, persuasive, and of a kind reasonably prudent persons rely upon. 39.4 Guidelines for Investigations. FHSAA Investigative Consultants will adhere to the following guidelines when conducting an investigation (§ 1006.20(2)(e & g), F.S.). 39.4.1 Notification of Investigation. FHSAA Office will notify its member school principal, headmaster or FHSAA Representative when an investigation is initiated. Member school principals shall notify, or cause to be notified in writing, student athletes and parents/legal guardians or other individuals identified by the FHSAA or its investigative consultant. 39.4.2 Investigations Conducted on School Campus. FHSAA Investigative Consultants will contact a school’s FHSAA Representative to schedule visits to the school’s campus to review records or to interview student-athletes, athletic department staff members, administrators or other representatives of the school’s athletic interests who are involved in possible violations at the school. 39.4.2.1 Conflict with Academic Schedule. Interviews of student-athletes and teachers will be scheduled to minimize a loss of time from class. 39.4.3 Investigations Conducted at Residences. Unless otherwise agreed to, FHSAA Investigative Consultants may conduct residential investigations on weekdays (Monday through Friday) between 9:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. 39.4.3.1 Searches of Residence. FHSAA Investigative Consultants will obtain written consent of the parent/ legal guardian before commencing a search of a family’s residence, which might include a search of a student’s personal living area(s). 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 105 Revised February 20, 2025 39.4.4 Presence of School Representative and/or Parent During Interview of Student-Athlete. A school representative, preferably the FHSAA Representative, must be present, and a parent/legal guardian may be present, during the interview of a student athlete that is conducted on campus. A parent/legal guardian must be present during the interview of a student athlete that is conducted off campus. 39.4.5 Representation by Legal Counsel. Any individual being interviewed is allowed to have private legal counsel present during interviews.

39.4.6.1 Disclosure of Purpose of Interview. FHSAA Investigative Consultant will disclose the purpose of the interview. 39.4.6.2 Responsibility to Cooperate. FHSAA Investigative Consultant will remind those being interviewed of their responsibility to cooperate. Individuals who choose to not cooperate with the investigative process may impact student participation in interscholastic contests. Parents and/or students who choose to not cooperate with the investigative process are considered to void their consent to participate as outlined in the EL3 form. 39.4.7 Interview Record. FHSAA Investigative Consultant may electronically record an interview unless the interviewee objects in writing. 39.4.7.1 Access to Recordings. An individual being interviewed may also electronically record the interview or may request and obtain, at their expense, a copy of the interview through the FHSAA office. 39.5 Result of an Investigation. If the investigation uncovers no verifiable evidence of a major violation, the case is closed, no further action is taken, and such notice will be sent to the member school. If evidence of a major violation is discovered, the case moves to the next phase, and a notice of preliminary findings is sent to the member school. POLICY 40 CONCUSSIONS To help ensure the health and safety of student athletes, the following policy provides guidelines and procedures on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion.

4.1.7.1 Travel Within Florida. No more than one school day or part of one school day may be missed in a week for traveling to, traveling from, and participating in an athletic contest(s) unless approved by the Executive Director, except for Florida High School State Championship Series. 4.1.7.2 Travel Outside Florida. No more than two school days or part of two school days may be missed in a week for traveling to, traveling from, and participating in an athletic contest(s) unless approved by the Executive Director. 4.1.8 Sunday Contests and Practices. No interscholastic athletic contest may be held on a Sunday, except under emergency or extraordinary conditions, in tournaments or meets which are approved by the Executive Director or the Board of Directors. The conduct of practice sessions of any kind on a Sunday is prohibited. 4.1.9 Student Participants. Only students in grades 6 through 12 are allowed to practice or participate in interscholastic athletics for a member school. Students can only participate for schools that carry the same grade level as the student. 4.1.10 Contracts. Contracts are required for all interscholastic athletic contests involving member schools and/or non-FHSAA member Florida schools, excluding the Florida High School State Championship Series. The designated FHSAA Representative must execute such contracts utilizing the official Association process, as approved by the Executive Director. 4.1.10.1 Exception. Member schools that belong to a school district conference whose conference games are scheduled by the school district may request a waiver of this policy from the Executive Director. 4.1.10.2 Forfeitures. A school that does not meet the valid terms of a fully executed contract is considered to have forfeited the contest. 4.1.10.2.1 Football. The school shall be removed from the state series for the remainder of the classification cycle and may be subject to financial penalty as stated in Bylaw 8.4.3. 4.1.10.2.2 Sports Other Than Football. The school shall be removed from the state series for that season and may be subject to financial penalty as stated in Bylaw 8.4.3.

40.1.1 Requirement for Coaches and Student Athletes. All FHSAA member school head coaches, paid/supplemented coaches and student athletes are required to annually view the most current FREE online education course. This NFHS concussion course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. 40.1.1.1 Coaches in all sports are strongly recommended to teach proper techniques to avoid concussion injuries. 40.1.1.2 Football. All FHSAA member school head football coaches and paid/supplemental football coaches are required to view the NFHS “Football Tackling” course. This course must be viewed every four (4) years, only if updates are published and endorsed by the FHSAA Sports Medicine Advisory Committee. 40.1.2 Recommendation. All member school personnel, contest officials, parents and media are encouraged to educate themselves by viewing the most current FREE online education concussion course. This free NFHS concussion course may be viewed online at www.nfhslearn.com. 40.1.3 Additional Information. Current and up-to-date information on concussion can be found on the Center for Disease Control and Prevention website at: • http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/youth.html; and • http://www.cdc.gov/concussion/HeadsUp/highschool.html. 40.2 Concussions. A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull. Concussions can also result from a fall or from collisions between with one or more individuals or with obstacles. As brain injury, concussions are serious. 40.2.1 Any student athlete who exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion including, but not limited to, loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion, or balance problems, shall be immediately removed from the contest or practice and shall not return to play until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. P 40 CONCUSSIONS 106 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 40.2.2 When you suspect that a player has a concussion, follow the “Heads Up” 4-step Action Plan: • Remove the athlete from play. • Ensure that the athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health-care professional. • Inform the athlete’s parents or guardians about the possible concussion and give them information on concussion. • Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until an appropriate health-care professional says he or she is symptom-free and gives the okay to return to activity. The signs, symptoms, and behaviors of a concussion are not always apparent immediately after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body and may develop over a few hours. An athlete should be observed following a suspected concussion and should never be left alone until the student-athlete is under the care of a parent/guardian or is evaluated by an appropriate health care provider. 40.3 Appropriate Health-Care Professional (AHCP). An appropriate health-care professional (AHCP) is an individual who is trained in the diagnosis, evaluation, and management of concussions. Such individuals will be a licensed physician (MD, as per § 458, F.S.) or a licensed osteopathic physician (DO, as per § 459, F.S.). Consistent with the American Academy of Neurology and other organizations, it is strongly recommended that an AHCP as defined in Policy 40.2 above or a licensed athletic trainer ( LAT , as per § 468, F.S.) is present at all sporting events, including practices, where athletes are at risk for concussion or for those classified as a collision sport, whenever possible. 40.4 Mechanics for Removal from Athletic Contest. The FHSAA concussion rule calls for the immediate removal of the participant from the contest or practice. Players, coaches, and contest officials should be cognizant of athletes who display signs, symptoms or behaviors of a concussion and immediately stop play for injury evaluation within the rules of the game (the responsibility of the contest official is limited to activities that occur on the field, court, mat, etc.).

• Appears dazed or stunned • Is confused about what to do • Forgets plays • Is unsure of game, score, or opponent • Moves clumsily or is unsteady • Numbness in the arms or legs • Pupils becoming unequal in size • Answers questions slowly • Loses consciousness • Shows behavior or personality changes • Can’t recall events prior to hit • Can’t recall events after hit • Repeated vomiting • Seizures • Slurred speech or inability to speak 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 107 Revised February 20, 2025 40.4.3 Removal. Once the participant has been removed from a contest due to a suspected concussion, the coach, school and AHCP(s) assumes full responsibility for that athlete’s further evaluation and safety. If available, a licensed athletic trainer ( LAT ) in collaboration with a MD/DO can assist with the sideline evaluation of a student-athlete when a student-athlete is sent out of a competition or practice but cannot provide written clearance to return to competition or to begin a return to play protocol (refer to above). If after sideline evaluation, it is determined the athlete does not demonstrate symptoms consistent with a concussion the LAT will follow procedures within a written operational protocol created and signed by a supervising physician to determine return to play. In this situation, the athlete should continue to be monitored for any delayed onset of concussion symptoms and must be removed from activity immediately if signs or symptoms return. 40.5 Return to Play (RTP) Criteria – Concussion Management Procedures 40.5.1 No athlete should return to play (RTP) or practice on the same day of a suspected concussion. “When in doubt, sit them out!” 40.5.2 Any athlete suspected of having a concussion must be evaluated by an ACHP (as defined above) as soon as possible and practical. 40.5.3 Any athlete who has sustained a concussion must be medically cleared by an AHCP (as defined above) prior to resuming participation in any practice or competition. 40.5.4 After evaluation and examination by an AHCP (as defined above), return to play must follow a stepwise protocol as defined by the “Graded Return to Play Protocol” (FHSAA form AT-18) and under the supervision of an AHCP, licensed athletic trainer, or other licensed health care professional (Post Head Injury/Concussion Form). 40.5.5 A written medical clearance from an AHCP (as defined above) is required for return to competition (Post Head Injury/ Concussion – RTP Form, AT18). 40.5.5.1 AHCPs that evaluate concussive injuries may work together with licensed athletic trainers, physical therapists, or other licensed health care professionals, team physicians, and individual family health care providers in the management of concussion and return to competition protocols. 40.5.5.2 The AT-18 form may be transmitted electronically between AHCP and school and other licensed health care providers to facilitate proper documentation as allowed by FERPA and HIPPA protections. 40.6 Concussion Release Form. Each student-athlete and their parent or legal guardian, duly appointed by a court of competent jurisdiction, must submit a release form provided by the association (Form EL3 – Consent and Release from Liability Certificate).

41.7.1 Anytime the WBGT reading is reasonably expected to exceed 82 degrees, the WBGT device shall be used to record environmental conditions and modifications shall be implemented for the safety of participants in all outdoor athletic activities. 41.7.2 The WBGT device should be set up and allowed to acclimatize at the venue at least 15-20 minutes prior to starting the activity (outdoor field, indoor gym, weight room, etc. - if non-air conditioned). 41.7.3 The WBGT should be set up three (3) feet above the surface of the field or turf and away from any obstructions. 41.7.4 The WBGT should be set up in the sun, not under shade. If in a non-climate-controlled building such as a gym, the WBGT should be switched to indoor mode. 41.7.5 The WBGT should be monitored throughout the duration of the practice or event approximately every 30 minutes. 41.7.6 If the WBGT reading moves into a different zone, the appropriate modifications should be made. 41.7.7 If the WBGT reading increases, then you modify to follow the equivalent work/rest ratio. 41.7.8 If the WBGT reading decreases, then you modify to follow the equivalent work/rest ratio.

41.8.1 The WBGT index provides standard modification requirements for preseason practices and for any in-season practices where environmental conditions are dangerous. 41.8.2 WBGT modifications should be fluid, meaning that if the conditions get more restrictive during the day or at particular practices, modifications should be more restrictive. As environmental conditions improve, modifications can become less restrictive. 41.8.3 The WBGT index is designed for practice situations when the risk of heat related injury is extreme. WBGT Reading Permitted Practice Activity < 82.0 Normal activities. 82.1 - 87.0 Three (3) separate four (4) minute rest breaks per hour of activity. 87.1 - 90.0 Maximum two (2) hour activity time. Four (4) separate four (4) minute rest breaks per hour of activity. For football, student-athletes are restricted to helmet, shoulder pads and shorts during activity. If WBGT reading rises to this level after practice has begun, student-athletes may continue to workout wearing football pants without changing into shorts. 90.1 - 92.0 Maximum one (1) hour activity time. Five (5) separate four (4) minute rest breaks. No protective equipment permitted. No conditioning activities permitted. ≥ 92.1 No outdoor activities. 41.8.4 Cooling zones are designated areas that shall include the immediate availability of cold-water immersion tubs or Tarp Assisted Cooling Oscillation (TACO) that can be filled with ice and wrapped around individuals to rapidly cool internal body temperature. An individual trained to administer cold-water immersion shall be present at the location of the equipment. 41.8.5 Cooling zones shall be available for each outdoor athletic contest, practice, workout, or conditioning session as designated by this policy. 41.8.6 Member schools shall have the immediate availability of an adequate ice supply to be used in the event of emergency and keeping hydration fluids appropriately chilled and readily accessible to students participating in exertional activities. 41.8.7 When ice or other emergency related equipment is not readily accessible, schools shall have alternative onsite safeguards to ensure the safety of all participants. 41.9 Interscholastic Contests. 41.9.1 In advance of an interscholastic contest, school authorities shall be aware of any potential environmental risk including extreme heat and WBGT conditions. 41.9.2 Member schools shall work with game staff to ensure adequate safety measures are in place before beginning the event, during, and after the event. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 111 Revised February 20, 2025 41.9.3 Member schools shall review all appropriate modifications necessary for the safety of all participants. These possibilities may include modifications to start time, warm-up routine, venue location, having additional onsite safety personnel, having multiple cooling zones and various modalities, requiring additional staff training, providing tented areas or shade zones, adding water/rest breaks, or, whenever most appropriate, postponement of the contest until a safer WBGT reading is achieved. 41.9.4 School personnel responsible for measuring the WBGT will provide timely data to the school principal or his/her designee in advance of any scheduled event where heat may be or become a factor. School personnel will use this data and exercise practical authority as described above to consider any additional safety modifications up to and including postponement. 41.9.5 WBGT Index for Interscholastic Contests. The index below shall be used for reference for any outdoor event: WBGT Reading Sport Required Modifications < 82.0 All Sports Normal, unrestricted activities. Reasonable rest and water breaks are encouraged throughout the event. 82.1 - 87.0 Football Shall provide a minimum two (2) minute rest break per quarter. Break shall be taken at a reasonable break in action midway through the quarter (change of possession, touchdown, or field goal). Host teams shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Golf Coaches shall ensure all golfers are provided access to chilled drinking fluids. Cross Country Host team shall provide cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Teams shall have two (2) separate hydration stations strategically placed throughout the course. Baseball Beach Volleyball Flag Football Lacrosse Soccer Softball Swimming & Diving Tennis Track & Field Water Polo Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. 87.1 - 90.0 Football Teams shall take a mandatory hydration break at or near the six (6) minute mark of each quarter, lasting three (3) minutes (change of possession, touchdown, or PAT). All participants shall remove their helmets and no coaches are permitted on the field at this time. It is recommended that players who are actively engaged in the competition shall come to the sideline, remove their helmets, and hydrate until such time that they re-enter the field of play. Host teams shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Golf Coaches shall ensure that all golfers are provided access to chilled drinking fluids. Reasonable efforts to provide options for shade should be considered. Lacrosse Soccer Teams shall take a mandatory three (3) minute hydration break at or near the twenty (20) minute mark of each half. Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Cross Country Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Teams shall have two (2) separate hydration stations strategically placed throughout the course. Baseball Softball Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Beginning at the mid-point of inning three (3) and continuing until the conclusion of the game, at each mid-point, teams shall take a three (3) minute hydration break. Tennis Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Host team shall provide options for shade cover. Teams shall provide a five (5) minute rest break between the 2nd and overtime sets. P 41 EXERTIONAL HEAT ILLNESS 112 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 Beach Volleyball Flag Football Swimming & Diving Track & Field Water Polo Host team shall provide cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Host team shall provide options for shade cover. ≥ 90.1 Football Teams shall take a mandatory hydration break at or near the four (4) minute and eight (8) minute marks of each quarter, lasting three (3) minutes (change of possession, touchdown, or PAT). All participants shall remove their helmets and no coaches are permitted on the field at this time. It is recommended that players who are actively engaged in the competition shall come to the sideline, remove their helmets, and hydrate until such time that they re-enter the field of play. Host teams shall provide a cold- water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Golf Reasonable consideration should be provided for shade options and unrestricted access to hydration fluids. Coaches shall monitor all golfers for any signs or symptoms of exhaustion and emergency measures taken. Coaches shall review EAP for heat emergencies with golf course, golfers, and participating teams. Lacrosse Soccer Teams shall take a mandatory five (5) minute hydration break at or near the twenty (20) minute mark of each half. Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Cross Country Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Teams shall have two (2) separate hydration stations strategically placed throughout the course. Baseball Softball Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Beginning at the mid-point of inning three (3) and continuing until the conclusion of the game, at each mid-point, teams shall take a three (3) minute hydration break. Tennis Teams shall provide a ten (10) minute break between the 2nd set and additional play. Host team shall provide options for shade cover. All participants shall be directed to seek shade, hydration, and rest during this mandatory break. Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Track & Field Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the distance running finish line. Host team shall provide options for shade cover. Prudent decisions should be made for additional emergency modalities based upon the number of teams and athletes present at the venue. Beach Volleyball Flag Football Swimming & Diving Water Polo Host team shall provide a cold-water immersion modality ready to use onsite and immediately accessible to the venue. Host team shall provide options for shade cover. 41.9.6 If the school principal or his/her designee of one or both schools involved in an athletic contest request that the contest be delayed, interrupted, or postponed for oppressive heat as demonstrated by an official WBGT reading, except for FHSAA State Championship Series events, the official shall immediately honor such request. In no case may a contest official deny any request by a school principal or his/her designee to delay, suspend, or postpone an outdoor contest due to inclement weather, including oppressive heat as demonstrated by an official WBGT reading, or imply that the contest will be forfeited because of such request. The FHSAA Administrative staff, State Finals host, and officials shall manage any heat-related or environmental weather situations at FHSAA State Finals events. 41.9.7 Member school personnel are reminded to plan and communicate in advance for travel to any “away” contest schools, especially those outside of their immediate locale, county, region, or state. The policies followed by non-member schools, or the availability of safety equipment and procedures at your home school may differ significantly from those found at other schools and locations. It is your responsibility to ensure the safety of your student-athletes regardless of location. By planning in advance, allows time for appropriate decision-making for the safety of all participants. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 113 Revised February 20, 2025 41.9.8 For any interscholastic contest where the heat may be a factor, member schools shall plan for safety as outlined in this policy including the immediate availability of cooling modalities and comprehensive Emergency Action Plans (EAP) to address heat emergencies. 41.9.9 Each member school’s emergency action plan shall include a procedure for onsite cooling using cold-water immersion or equivalent means before a student-athlete is transported to a hospital for exertional heatstroke. 41.9.10 Coaches shall adopt a heat injury prevention philosophy by always promoting unrestricted access to water. A student-athlete should never be denied access to water. 41.9.11 Off-Campus Activities. All off-campus athletic activities are included in this policy. 41.9.12 Student-athletes who participate in activities that last for an extended amount of time or multiple activities in a day should be provided electrolytes to assist in rehydration. 41.9.13 Rest breaks shall encourage unlimited hydration intake and rest without any activity involved and shall occur in shaded areas. The use of shade tents is strongly recommended for low shade areas . 41.9.14 Each athletic coach involving outdoor practices or events shall annually complete training in exertional heat illness identification, prevention, and response, including the effective administration of cooling zones.

5.4.1 Penalties Due to Suspension. Schools whose membership has been suspended for any reason, other than failure to pay membership dues, will lose all privileges listed in Bylaw 3.9.1 for the duration of the suspension and may incur a minimum financial penalty of $100 for each week the school remains on suspension (maximum $400). If after 30 days, the school has not corrected its deficiencies, the school’s membership status will be brought before the FHSAA Board of Directors for potential expulsion (reference Bylaw 3.10.2). POLICY 6 SPORT SEASON LIMITATIONS The following guidelines shall govern season limitations, contest limitations and individual student limitations for all member schools participating in FHSAA-sponsored sports. 6.1 General Principles. 6.1.1 Season Limitations. A member school shall not organize its teams for interscholastic practice or interscholastic competition in a sport outside of the dates listed for that sport. The Board of Directors will establish the dates for the first day of allowable practices/tryouts, pre-season contests, first and last days of regular season contests and the Florida High School State Championship Series for each sport. These dates will be published on the FHSAA Website. There will be no further practices following the date of the last regular season contest or the date of elimination from Florida High School State Championship Series competition, whichever is last to occur. 6.1.1.1 Spring Practice. Competitive Cheerleading and football may engage in spring practice for a maximum of twenty (20) sessions commencing with the Monday of Week 44 or the last twenty (20) days of the school year, whichever comes first. The varsity team and each individual student may compete in one (1) jamboree or one (1) spring classic game during the final week, which must be counted as one (1) of the twenty (20) sessions. 6.1.1.2 Restrictions for Football and Wrestling 6.1.1.2.1 Football. Due to the protective equipment required in football, these procedures apply for both fall and spring practices: (a) the first two (2) days of practice are restricted to helmets only, (b) days 3-5 can introduce shoulder-pads with shorts, (c) beginning day six (6) of practice, full gear can be utilized, and body-to-body contact is permitted. Student-athletes who begin practice with a team after the start of official practice will be required to follow this same 6-day procedure. During the initial five (5) days, the use of arm shields, tackling and blocking dummies, sleds and other devices can be used for instructional purposes, however, deliberate body-to-body contact is prohibited. 6.1.1.2.2 Wrestling. Each student must participate in minimum of 10 practice sessions on 10 separate days prior to first competition (Exception: a student who participates in a fall sport may compete after participating in 5 practice sessions on 5 separate days). 6.1.1.3 Penalties to School. Failure to comply with this policy may subject the school to a monetary penalty of a minimum of $250 and/or other sanctions. 6.1.2 School Contest Limitations. Each sport will have the following game/meet/match limitations for each level (i.e., varsity, junior varsity, freshman, etc.) regardless of how many teams participate at each level, which will be inclusive of all games/ meets/matches played in tournaments (for the sports of bowling, tennis and wrestling, each tournament counts as 2 matches). Only varsity level teams are permitted to participate in preseason games/meets/matches with the following limits: (a) Baseball, Basketball, Soccer, Softball, Volleyball, and Water Polo – 2 preseason and 25 regular season games/matches (b) Beach Volleyball, Bowling, Lacrosse, and Tennis – 2 preseason and 18 regular season games/matches (c) Swimming & Diving, Track & Field, and Weightlifting – 1 preseason and 13 regular season meets 52 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 (d) Flag Football – 2 preseason and 15 regular season games (e) Competitive Cheerleading, Cross Country, and Football – 1 preseason and 10 regular season games/competitions, high school varsity level; 8 games, all other levels and 1 postseason bowl game per Administrative Procedure 4.7.1.2 (Football only) (f) Golf – 2 preseason and 16 regular season matches (g) Wrestling – 1 preseason and 20 regular season points, 2 of which may only be single dual meets 6.1.2.1 Levels of Participation. A member school is limited to one varsity team per sport but may have multiple sub-varsity teams, including, but not limited to, one or more freshman teams, one or more junior varsity teams, etc., each level of which having the limits as specified in 6.1.2. 6.1.2.1.1 Exception. A school which participates as an independent in a sport offered by the school may have multiple varsity teams in that sport, each of which having the same individual limitations as specified in Policy 6.1.3. 6.1.2.2 Penalties to School. Failure to comply with this policy will subject the school to a monetary penalty and/or other sanctions and a reduction of contests for the following school year for that specific sport and level. 6.1.3 Individual Limitations. 6.1.3.1 An individual student shall not exceed the established contest limitations, as listed in Policy 6.1.2 (except for football), during any school year, regardless of whether the student transfers attendance to a different school, moves back and/or forth between varsity and sub-varsity levels or competes at the high school or middle/junior high school level. If a combination school has a high school and a middle/junior high school team in a certain sport which compete during different seasons, an individual student is permitted to participate during only one of the seasons for that particular sport. 6.1.3.1.1 Football. The season limitation for football is 11 games, inclusive of all games played during the regular season. After the conclusion of the sub-varsity season, sub-varsity players may complete the varsity regular season. A student-athlete can participate in only one (1) football contest during the same school week; Monday through Saturday (exclusive of the Florida High School State Championship Series). 6.1.3.1.1.1 Exception. A member school may allow student-athletes to participate in six (6) quarters per week. Student- athletes are limited to six (6) quarters of in-game competition in the same school week Monday through Saturday (exclusive of the Florida High School State Championship Series). Such participation will count as one (1) contest. FHSAA Policy 6.1.3.2 applies. 6.1.3.2 An individual student cannot participate at different competition levels (i.e., varsity, junior varsity, freshman, etc.) on the same day (except girls basketball and softball ). 6.1.3.2.1 Exception: Girls Basketball. A student-athlete can participate at different competition levels (i.e., varsity, junior varsity, freshman, etc.) on the same day not to exceed a total of six (6) quarters of in-game competition on that same day. Such participation will count as one (1) contest. 6.1.3.2.2 Exception: Softball. A student-athlete can participate at different competition levels (i.e., varsity, junior varsity, freshman, etc.) on the same day. Such participation will count as one (1) contest. An individual student may not pitch or catch at different competition levels on the same day. 6.1.3.3 An individual student cannot participate in more than one season for a sport per year. 6.1.3. 4 Baseball. An individual student shall not exceed the maximum number of pitches established in the FHSAA Pitch Count Regulations per Administrative Procedure 4.1.3. 6.1.3. 4 .1 Penalties to School. Failure to comply with this policy may result in the assessment of penalties including, but not limited to, the following: 6.1.3. 4 .1.1 Assessment of a minimum monetary penalty of $500 per violation and/or other sanctions. 6.1.3. 4 .1.2 Loss of permissible practice time. 6.1.3. 4 .1.3 Loss of privilege to participate in a preseason classic with reimbursement of a minimum of $500 to each affected school and the FHSAA. 6.1.3. 4 .1.4 Reduced number of regular season home contests. 6.1.3. 4 .1.5 Loss of privileges to participate in the Florida High School State Championship Series. 6.1.3. 4 .1.6 The student-athlete will be required to rest for the next seven (7) days and will not be permitted to pitch during that game. 6.1.3. 4 .1.7 The head coach will receive a Level 3 Suspension per FHSAA Policy 30.3.1.3 for committing an egregious unsportsmanlike act. 6.1.4 Standardized Calendar. All FHSAA Sports Seasons will be determined by dates established in accordance with the standardized calendar developed by the National Federation of State High School Associations. This calendar will number the weeks of the year, with Week One (1) being the first full week of July (Sunday through Saturday). Hereinafter, this calendar will be referred to as the FHSAA Standardized Calendar. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 53 Revised February 20, 2025 P 7 SPECIAL AND SANCTIONED ATHLETIC EVENTS POLICY 7 SPECIAL AND SANCTIONED ATHLETIC EVENTS Preseason and post season classics, jamborees and bowl games in the sports of baseball, basketball, cross country, football, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, track & field, girls volleyball, and boys wrestling require prior approval by the FHSAA. Athletic events and tournaments during the regular season do not require approval by the FHSAA Office unless the event meets the definition of a Third-Party Special Event in Policy 7.6. See Policy 9 for fees and Policy 7 for deadlines for filing and late filing financial penalties. 7.1 Definitions. 7.1.1 Sanctioned Events. A sanctioned event is a preseason jamboree game, preseason classic game or preseason tournament, in the sports of baseball, basketball, cross country, football, soccer, softball, swimming & diving, track & field, girls volleyball, and boys wrestling, or spring football jamboree or spring football classic, football bowl game, third party hosted games or tournaments (i.e. KSA Events, ESPN, Paragon Sports, etc.) and nationally televised events during pre or post season in any sport.

9.1 General Principles ............................................... 24 9.2 Attendance Requirements .............................. 24-27 9.3 Transfer/Change of Schools Regulations ....... 27-28 9.4 Academic Requirements ................................. 28-30 9.5 Limit of Eligibility .................................................. 30 9.6 Age ...................................................................... 31 9.7 Physical Examination ........................................... 31 9.8 Consent and Release .......................................... 32 9.9 Amateurism ..................................................... 32-34 9.10 Athletic Contest Participation ............................... 34

9.2.1 Student May Participate at School he/she First Attends Each School Year. A student must attend school and is immediately eligible to participate in the interscholastic athletic programs sponsored by the school he/she attends each school year, which is either: (§ 1006.20(2)(a), F.S.) (a) The school where the student first attends classes (i.e., establishes school residency); or (b) The school where the student first participates in athletic activities on or after the official start date of that sport season before he/ she attends classes at any school (i.e., establishes school residency); or (c) The school the student transfers to after previously attending another school (reference Bylaw 9.3.2). 9.2.1.1 Definition of “Attend School.” A student attends school if he/she is present in a school classroom on a regular basis or is a “Non-Traditional” student participating for a member school. A student can attend only one school at a time for the purposes of interscholastic athletic eligibility , with the exception of charter school, non-member private school, and traditional public school students . 9.2.1.2 Definition of “Interscholastic Athletic Programs.” Interscholastic athletic programs encompass all activities relating to competitive sport contests involving individual students or teams of students from one school against individual students or teams of students from another school. Eligible to participate includes, but are not limited to, tryouts, off-season conditioning, summer workouts, preseason conditioning, in-season practice, and contests. This does not mean that a student must be placed on any specific team (§ 1006.15(3)(a), F.S.). 9.2.1.3 Students with Multiple Residences. A student who, through the actions of a court of competent jurisdiction, is required to have multiple physical residences will establish his/her school residence as per Bylaw 9.2.1. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 25 Revised February 20, 2025

9.2.2.1 Home Education and PEP Student s . A legally registered home education student or a student who has been awarded a PEP scholarship may participate at one of the following: (§ 1006.15(3)(c) and §1002.41(4) , F.S.) (a) The student’s home zoned public school; or (b) The public school the student could choose to attend according to the controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.31, F.S., including a charter or lab school; or (c) A private school that will accept the student for participation; or (d) A home education cooperative to which the student belongs. 9.2.2.1.1 Home Education Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, a home education student must: (§ 1006.15(3)(c)1-7, F.S.) (a) register as a home education student with the district school superintendent of the county in which he/she resides (home education students) or provide the member school with verification of enrollment in the Personalized Education Program (PEP students) ; and (b) register with the school of his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation ; and (c) meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior and performance as the school requires of other participating students; and (d) certify to the school at the end of each semester that he/she has the minimum cumulative grade point average required for participation; and (e) meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (f) must be registered with the FHSAA Office each year using a form provided by the Association. 9.2.2.2 Charter School Student. A student who attends a charter school that does not sponsor an interscholastic athletic program in one or more sports may participate in the sport or sports not sponsored by the charter school at one of the following schools: (§ 1006.15(3)(d), F.S.) (a) The student’s home zoned public school; or (b) The public school the student could choose to attend according to the controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.33, F.S., including a charter or lab school; or (c) A private school that will accept the student for participation. 9.2.2.2.1 Charter School Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, a charter school student must: (§ 1006.15(3)(d)1-7, F.S.) (a) meet the requirements of the charter school education program as determined by the charter school governing board; and (b) meet the minimum grade point average standards that are required of all students; and (c) meet the same residency requirements as other students in the school at which he/she participates; and (d) meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior and performance that are required of other students in interscholastic athletics; and (e) register with the school his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation; and (f) meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (g) must be registered with the FHSAA Office each year using a form provided by the Association. 9.2.2.3 Students in Alternative or Special Schools. A student who attends an alternative school or other special school operated by a school district, which is not a member of the FHSAA, or a student who attends a member private school, and does not sponsor an interscholastic athletic program may participate at: (a) Any public school; or (b) A private school that will accept the student for participation. 9.2.2.3.1 Alternative or Special School Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, an alternative or special school: (a) Must be reported by the district superintendent or district athletic director as a school qualified to allow students to participate under this bylaw; and (b) The student must register his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation; and (c) The student must meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements. B 9 STUDENT ELIGIBILITY 26 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.2.2.4 Non-member Private School Students. A student who attends a private school which is not a member of the FHSAA shall be eligible to participate in an interscholastic or intrascholastic sport or sports at one of the following schools: (§ 1006.15(8), F.S.) (a) A member public school, including a charter or lab school; or (b) A member private school. 9.2.2.4.1 Non-member Private School Qualifications. To participate in interscholastic athletics, the private school that the student attends: (a) Must not be a member of the FHSAA; and (b) Must not offer the sport in which the student wishes to participate: and (c) Must have an enrollment of 200 students or fewer in the corresponding grade levels. 9.2.2.4.2 Non-member Private School Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, a non-member private school student must: (§ 1006.15(8), F.S.) (a) make all student records, including, but not limited to, academic, financial, disciplinary, and attendance records, available upon request of the FHSAA; and (b) register with the school his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation; and (c) meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (d) must be registered with the FHSAA Office each year using a form provided by the Association. 9.2.2.5 Florida Virtual School – Full Time Program (FLVS-FT) Students. A student of the Florida Virtual School full-time program may participate in interscholastic athletics at: (a) The student’s home zoned public school; or (b) The public school the student could choose to attend according to the controlled open enrollment provisions pursuant to § 1002.31, F.S., i ncluding a charter or lab school; or (c) A private school that will accept the student for participation. 9.2.2.5.1 FLVS-FT Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, an FLVS-FT student must: (§ 1006.15(3)(e)1-5, F.S.) (a) meet any additional requirements as determined by the board of trustees of the Florida Virtual School; and (b) meet the minimum grade point average standards that are required of all students; and (c) meet the same residency requirements as other students in the school at which he/she participates; and (d) meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior and performance that are required of other students in interscholastic athletics; and (e) register with the school his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation; and (f) meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (g) must be registered with the FHSAA Office each year using a form provided by the Association. 9.2.2.6 Traditional Public School Students. A student who attends a traditional public school that does not sponsor an interscholastic athletic program in one or more sports may participate in the sport or sports not sponsored by the traditional public school at one of the following schools: (§ 1006.15(3)(h), F.S.) (a) Any public school in the school district in which the student resides; or (b) A private school that will accept the student for participation. 9.2.2.6.1 Traditional Public School Student Requirements. To participate in interscholastic athletics, a traditional public school student must: (§ 1006.15(3)(h)1-2, F.S.) (a) meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior and performance that are required of other students in interscholastic athletics; and (b) register with the school his/her intent to participate in interscholastic athletics as a representative of the school before participation; and (c) meet all other FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (d) must be registered with the FHSAA Office each year using a form provided by the Association. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 27 Revised February 20, 2025 9.2.2.7 Public Transfer Students. A student who participates in interscholastic athletics at a public school and who transfers from that school during the school year must be allowed to continue to participate in the activity at that school for the remainder of the school year if: (a) During the period of participation, the student continues to meet FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (b) The student continues to meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior, and performance which are required of other students participating in the sport, except for enrollment requirements at the school at which the student participates; and (c) The parents of the student participating in the sport provide for transportation of the student to and from the school at which the student participates. 9.2.2.8 Students in Dual Enrollment and Early Admission Programs. A student who attends a dual enrollment or early admission program operated by a community college or university may participate at the school the student attends or at which records are being kept if: (a) The school awards credit toward graduation for the work the student completes at the community college or university; and (b) The community college or university officially issues grades on the same schedule as the school’s semester; and (c) The student has not met the graduation requirements as specified by the school’s or school district’s student progression plan for high school graduation; and (d) The student does not participate in the intercollegiate athletic programs of the community college or university; and (e) The student meets all other FHSAA eligibility requirements (no form or letter is required). 9.2.3 Attendance Within First 10 Days of Semester Required. A student must attend classes within the first 10 school days of a semester. Otherwise, the student will not be eligible until: (a) The student has made up all class work missed during his/her absence; and (b) The student has attended one school day for each school day missed. 9.2.4 Ineligible Student Cannot Change Schools to Become Eligible. A student who is deemed ineligible for a period of time cannot change schools and become eligible. Attending a new school at the beginning of the school year does not decrease or eliminate the period of ineligibility.

9.3.1 “Transfer” Defined. A transfer occurs when a student makes any change in schools after he/she establishes residency , as defined in Bylaw 9.2.1, at a school each year. 9.3.2 Transfer Eligibility. A student who transfers from one school to another will be eligible at the new school provided the student qualifies under one of the following: 9.3.2.1 Transfer before Starting a Sport. A student who has not started a sport may seek to immediately join an existing team if the roster for the specific interscholastic or intrascholastic extracurricular activity has not reached that activity’s identified maximum size, provided the coach for the activity determines that the student has the requisite skill and ability to participate (§ 1006.15(9)(a), F.S.). The student may not be declared ineligible because the student did not have the opportunity to comply with qualifying requirements. 9.3.2.2 Transfer after Starting a Sport. 9.3.2.2.1 Continue Participating for Previous Public School. A student who participates in an interscholastic athletic activity at a public school and who transfers from that school during the school year must be allowed to continue to participate in the activity at that school for the remainder of the school year if: (a) During the period of participation in the activity, the student continues to meet FHSAA eligibility requirements; and (b) The student continues to meet the same standards of acceptance, behavior, and performance which are required of other students participating in the activity, except for enrollment requirements at the school at which the student participates; and (c) The parents of the student participating in the activity provide for transportation of the student to and from the school at which the student participates; and (d) The student must be registered with the FHSAA Office as a non-traditional student. B 9 STUDENT ELIGIBILITY 28 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.3.2.2.2 Begin Participating for New School. A student may not participate in a sport at his/her new school if the student participated in that same sport at another school during that school year, unless the student meets one of the following criteria (§ 1006.15(9)(b), F.S.): (a) Dependent children of active-duty military personnel whose move resulted from military orders. (b) Children who have been relocated due to a foster care placement in a different school zone. (c) Children who move due to a court-ordered change in custody due to separation or divorce, or the serious illness or death of a custodial parent. (d) Authorized for good cause in district, private or charter school board policy. 9.3.3 Qualifying Transfer Student Becomes Eligible on Sixth Day of Attendance. A transfer student who qualifies under Bylaw 9.3.2 will be eligible for competition on the sixth school day of attendance at the new school if: (a) The school has received and evaluated the student’s official transcript provided by his/her former school; and (b) The school has determined that the student meets all eligibility requirements. 9.3.3.1 Student Must Provide Academic Records. A student who transfers or changes schools during the summer must provide the member school with an official sealed transcript showing all grades he/she has received at all schools attended since beginning eighth grade. The student must also provide the school with all information the school needs to determine the student’s eligibility using the scale in Bylaw 9.4.2. The student cannot be declared academically eligible by the member school until all such information is received to its satisfaction. Final grades previously earned by the student shall not be converted using the scale in Bylaw 9.4.2. 9.3.3.2 Student’s Former School Must Verify Eligibility Status Upon Request. The member school formerly attended by a student must verify the student’s eligibility status on the form provided by the FHSAA (EL6 - Notice of Transfer/Change of School). The form will be required regardless of whether the student changes schools during the school year or during the summer period between school years. 9.3.3.3 Student Not Eligible for One Full Semester if Transcript Cannot be Obtained. A student whose former school cannot or will not provide an official sealed transcript will not be eligible in the new school until he/ she has been in attendance for one full semester and has established a cumulative GPA. The school must submit a written report to the FHSAA Office that includes the student’s name, date of first attendance in the school, and the beginning and ending dates of the previous semester. 9.3.4 Ineligible Student Cannot Transfer or Change Schools to Become Eligible. A student who is deemed ineligible for a period of time cannot transfer or change schools and become eligible. Attending a new school at the beginning of the school year does not decrease or eliminate the period of ineligibility. 9.3.4.1 Students Under Disciplinary Action. A student who has been expelled or is under disciplinary action by a school district or school (which would render the student ineligible) shall not be considered eligible at any member school during the length of the disciplinary action. A student who is under disciplinary action chooses not to attend an alternative school, if offered by the school district or school, shall be ineligible to represent a member school for the next two consecutive “full” semesters. Attending a new school at the beginning of the school year does not decrease or eliminate the period of ineligibility.

9.8.1 Host school/organizations for all Florida High School State Championship Series contests shall adhere to the following guidelines with regard to the sale of tickets at such contests: 9.8.1.1 For Florida High School State Championship Series games, tournaments, or meets at which admission is charged, the FHSAA requires hosts to provide electronic ticketing using the Association’s designated provider(s). Numbered tickets or numbered armbands may also be sold in conjunction with electronic tickets. Children aged 3 and under may be admitted free of charge. 9.8.1.2 Entry and Ticket Redemption 9.8.1.2.1 Paper Tickets. Each ticket must be torn in half by ticket-takers so that they cannot be resold. Torn tickets cannot be accepted for re-entry. 9.8.1.2.2 Arm Bands. Numbered arm bands must be applied to each person at the time of purchase and cannot be removed for resale. 9.8.1.2.3 Electronic Tickets. Electronic tickets must be redeemed using the Association’s designated ticket provider’s redemption method to ensure cancellation of the electronic ticket upon entry. 9.8.1.2.4 FHSAA State Series Pass and FHSAA Lifetime Pass. Host schools must adhere to Policy 15.1.4 regarding acceptance of FHSAA State Series Passes and FHSAA Lifetime Passes in lieu of charging admission to any State Series event. The host may require a pass gate log to be signed by the pass holder. 9.8.1.3 Re-Entry. Arm bands or hand stamps may be used for re-entry, where monitored and permitted by the host. The host has the authority to enforce a no re-entry policy at their discretion. 9.8.1.4 All tickets, arm bands and electronic tickets sold must be accounted for on the financial report form for sports that are required to share a percentage of sales with the FHSAA (see Policy 9.10). 9.8.1.5 Allocation of Tickets. The visiting school for a regional quarterfinal, regional semifinal, regional final, or state semifinal game may request from the host school up to 40 percent of the available tickets to be sold for the game. This request must be made by noon of the day following the previous round game. Any unsold tickets shall be returned to the host school not later than noon on the day of the game.

The Florida High School Ath letic Association (FHSAA) recognizes the importance of maintaining amateurism in high school athletics. Compliance with this bylaw does not ensure maintenance of eligibility standards of other athletic associations, such as, but not limited to, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), or the governing body for a particular sport. Student-athletes are encouraged to communicate with those organizations to ensure any activity associated with Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) complies with eligibility standards. Student-athletes and their families are encouraged to seek legal counsel and tax advice when considering NIL activity. The FHSAA supports NIL education, which prepares student-athletes to make informed decisions. By providing student-athletes with knowledge about potential legal and financial drawbacks associated with NIL activities, high schools can contribute to the overall welfare of their student-athletes. The following provisions shall determine the eligibility status of students who participate in interscholastic athletics for FHSAA member schools, related to amateur status. 9.9.1 General Principles. A student may not participate in an athletic activity of this Association unless he/she is an amateur. An amateur is one who engages in athletic competition solely for the physical, mental, social, and pleasure benefits derived from the activity. 9.9.2 Activities that may Impact Amateur Status. The following activities may impact a student-athlete’s amateur status: (a) Competing for money or other monetary compensations; (b) Receiving any award or prize of monetary value which has not been approved by the FHSAA; (c) Capitalizing on athletic fame or performance by receiving money or gifts of a monetary nature; (d) Signing a professional playing contract in any sport or hiring a registered agent to manage his/her athletic career , other than for the purpose of advising on NIL related matters ; (e) Competing under an assumed name; (f) Accepting a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement that does not adhere to FHSAA Bylaw 9.9. 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook 33 Revised February 20, 2025 9.9.3 Permissible Awards, Gifts, or Other Compensation. A student-athlete will not forfeit his/her amateur status for accepting: (a) Symbolic awards such as school letters, medals, trophies, plaques, pins, keys, or ribbons of small monetary value purchased from an established award company; (b) Rings, sweaters, jackets, or award blankets provided that they are presented by the school which they represent and do not exceed the value of the purchase price from an established award company; (c) Remuneration of “essential expenses” for any game in which he/she participates as a player; limited to meals, lodging, and transportation; (d) College scholarship offers; (e) A Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement as defined in FHSAA Bylaw 9.9. 9.9.4 Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). A student-athlete may profit from the use of their Name, Image, and Likeness subject to their compliance with FHSAA Bylaw 9.9. Permissible activities include, but are not limited to, commercial endorsements, promotional activities, social media presence, product, or service advertisements. 9.9.4.1 Name, Image, and Likeness Agreement. An NIL agreement is a fully executed, written contract that allows for student-athletes to profit from or be compensated for promoting, partnering, and/or representing product endorsements and other activities as defined in FHSAA Bylaw 9.9. An NIL agreement is limited to a student-athlete’s high school period of athletic eligibility and shall not extend beyond a student-athlete’s high school graduation date. 9.9.4.1.1 By entering into an NIL agreement, the student-athlete and his/her parent(s)/guardian(s) release their school, its district or governing body, and FHSAA from any liability related to, or arising from the NIL agreement. 9.9.4.1.2 The student-athlete and his/her parent(s)/legal guardian(s) shall hold harmless their school, its district or governing body, and FHSAA from any liability related to, or arising from the NIL agreement. 9.9.4.2 NIL Collectives. NIL Collectives include but are not limited to, groups, organizations, or cooperative enterprises that exist to collect funds from donors, individuals, or business to: (a) help facilitate NIL deals for student-athletes; (b) facilitate payments to or transfers funds to student-athletes; (c) create ways for athletes to monetize from their NIL; and/or (d) otherwise promote NIL for schools or student-athletes. NIL Collectives shall not include school sanctioned team fundraising. 9.9.4.3 Use of Member School, FHSAA, or NFHS Markings. Student-athletes are prohibited from making any reference to and will not otherwise use or authorize others to use the uniforms, logos, mascots, insignia, or identifying marks of a member school, the FHSAA, the NFHS, and/or any FHSAA, NFHS, or member school event, game, or championship when engaging in any NIL activity. Student-athletes will be prohibited from monetizing their Name, Image, and Likeness with the use of their school’s uniform, equipment, logo, name, proprietary patents, products, and/or copyrights associated with an FHSAA member school, NFHS, and/or school district, either in public, print, or social media platforms, unless granted authorization by prior written consent from the school, district or governing body of the school, or Association, respectively. 9.9.4.3.1 Student-athletes may not endorse or promote any third-party entities, goods, or services during school-/district- sponsored activities or FHSAA activities. 9.9.4.3.2 No reference to FHSAA, NFHS, school, or school district accolades or championships may be used in the student’s NIL activities for which they are compensated. 9.9.4.4 Prohibited Engagements. Student-athletes are prohibited from engaging in any NIL activities involving the following categories of products and services: (a) Adult entertainment products and services; (b) Alcohol, tobacco, vaping, and nicotine products; (c) Cannabis products; (d) Controlled substances; (e) Prescription pharmaceuticals; (f) Gambling, including sports betting, the lottery, and betting in connection with video games, online games, and mobile devices; (g) Weapons, firearms, and ammunition; (h) Political or social activism; and (i) NIL Collectives. B 9 STUDENT ELIGIBILITY 34 2024-25 FHSAA Handbook Revised February 20, 2025 9.9.4.5 Representative of a School’s Athletic Interests. No school employee, athletic department staff member, or representative of a school’s athletic interests as defined in Bylaw 1.4.17 (a-e), may form, direct, offer, provide, or otherwise engage in any activity outlined in FHSAA Bylaw 9.9. Representatives of a school’s athletic interests as defined in Bylaw 1.4.17(f) are subject to the prohibitions included in 9.9.4.2 and 9.9.4.4(i). 9.9.4.6 Must Not be Used to Recruit. NIL activities shall not be used to pressure, urge, or entice a student- athlete to attend a school for the purpose of participating in interscholastic athletics. The NIL agreement shall not be used as a guise for athletic recruiting (reference Policies 36 and 37). 9.9.4.7 Student Transfers. A student-athlete who transfers after starting a sport, shall be prohibited from securing an NIL agreement that season, unless he/she meets one of the provisions outlined in Bylaw 9.3.2.2. 9.9.5 Affidavit of Compliance. A student who engages in any NIL activity must sign an “Affidavit of Compliance with the Regulations on Amateurism and Interscholastic Athletic Eligibility.” The affidavit will be accompanied by an explanation of the FHSAA Bylaw on Amateurism, including the penalties for violating the bylaw, as well as the consequences of making a false statement on the affidavit. The student/parent must complete, obtain all applicable signatures, and submit this form to the school within five (5) business days of signing a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement. 9.9.6 Penalties. 9.9.6.1 Penalties Assessed to Schools. Failure to comply with FHSAA Bylaw 9.9.4 may result in the assessment of disciplinary measures outlined in Policy 36.5.3 and/or Policy 37.3.3. 9.9.6.2 Penalties Assessed to School Employees and Contractors. Failure to comply with FHSAA Bylaw 9.9.4 may result in the assessment of penalties outlined in Policy 36.5.4 and/or Policy 37.3.4 (§1006.20(2)(b)2, F.S.). 9.9.6.3 Eligibility Effect of Violation. Any violation by a student-athlete of the provisions of Bylaw 9.9 shall result in escalating sanctions. However, a student-athlete who falsifies information or who receives an impermissible benefit will be deemed ineligible in accordance with Bylaw 9.1.2.2 or Policy 36.5.2, respectively. 9.9.6.3.1 For a first offense, the student-athlete shall receive a formal warning. If applicable, the student shall immediately terminate/modify the NIL agreement, remove any advertisement, promotional activity, or endorsement, and return any awards, gifts, or other compensation. 9.9.6.3.2 For a second offense, the student-athlete will be ineligible to represent any member school for a period of one year from the date of discovery. 9.9.6.3.3 For a third offense, the student-athlete will be ineligible to compete in any interscholastic athletic contest in any sport for the duration of the student-athlete’s high school career.

of the Principal 6.1 Definition and Responsibility ........................... 18-19 6.2 Certification of Student Eligibility ......................... 19 6.3 Recruitment of Students ...................................... 19