Upstate Falcons Athletics Handbook
A Guide for Families Participating in Upstate Falcons, a Program of Upstate Homeschool Sports

Our Vision

At Upstate Homeschool Sports, home of the Upstate Falcons, we see athletics as a platform for lasting growth—spiritually, mentally, and physically. We’re building a Christ-centered sports community where homeschool and underserved students grow into godly leaders through commitment, discipline, and competition.

By offering high-level programs in girls basketball (middle school, JV, varsity), cross country, and track, we aim to develop athletes who lead with character, compete with excellence, and serve with integrity.

Our Mission

Upstate Homeschool Sports exists to offer Christ-honoring, competitive athletic opportunities that develop both skill and character. We serve homeschool and underserved families across the Upstate by equipping athletes to pursue excellence in sport and life while deepening their faith and leadership abilities.

Core Commitments

• Faith in Motion – Our actions and attitudes reflect our commitment to Christ in all areas of play and preparation.

• Character First – We uphold integrity, resilience, and humility, regardless of circumstances.

• United as One – Team success stems from trust, encouragement, and working together.

• Purposeful Pursuit of Excellence – We train and compete to our highest potential as stewards of our God-given abilities.

• Lead by Serving – We influence through humility and sacrificial leadership.

Participation Guidelines

To take part in Upstate Falcons sports, families must meet these standards:

• Homeschool Eligibility: Athletes must be homeschooled—defined as education directed primarily by parents/guardians. Exceptions for students without athletic options may be reviewed by the Board.

• Residency: Athletes must live with a parent or legal guardian.

• Education Status: Students must not have graduated high school.

• Discipline History: Students expelled from public/private schools within the current school year are not eligible.

• No Dual Participation: Athletes cannot compete in the same sport for another school or league at the same time.

• Age Limits: Students must be between 11 and 18 years old on specific cut-off dates (11 yrs old by Dec 31st and cannot be 19 on September 1).

• Academic Responsibility: Parents are expected to monitor and support academic progress throughout the season.

• Tournament Requirements: Additional eligibility guidelines may apply for specific events.

Athlete Code of Conduct

As ambassadors of Christ, their families, and the Falcons, athletes are expected to:

• Act with honesty and integrity

• Respect all people and property

• Show maximum effort and a positive attitude

• Demonstrate self-control and sportsmanship

• Avoid crude language, teasing, and inappropriate behavior

• Maintain modest, appropriate interactions

• Wear uniforms properly and only at sanctioned events

• Follow team rules and instructions without arguing

Consequences for violations may range from warnings to dismissal at the discretion of coaches and/or the board.

Parent & Guardian Code of Conduct

Parents are essential role models and team partners. We ask all families to:

• Refrain from profanity, aggressive behavior, or interfering with officials

• Demonstrate respect toward all players, coaches, and families

• Avoid coaching from the sidelines

• Support the team through positive speech and actions

• Abide by conflict resolution procedures

• Stay off the court/field unless authorized

Any violation may lead to disciplinary action, including removal from games or team involvement.

Parental Involvement & Volunteering

Upstate Falcons relies on family participation. Every household is expected to volunteer throughout the season. Opportunities include:

• Scorekeeping and timekeeping

• Admissions and gate setup

• Event prep and cleanup

• Transport and carpool help

• Concessions (where applicable)

• Team communication

We also ask parents to respect coaching boundaries—no sideline instruction. Let the coaches coach, and reinforce values from the stands.

Game-Time Expectations

Playing time is earned, not guaranteed. Coaches consider:

• Skill development and performance

• Attitude and effort

• Practice attendance and punctuality

• Matchups and team strategy

Concerns about playing time should be addressed first by the player with the coach. Parents may escalate concerns respectfully through Falcons administration if necessary.

Practices

Practices are vital for growth and preparation. Athletes are expected to:

• Arrive on time and focus during drills

• Learn from mistakes and feedback

• Communicate openly when needing clarity

• Demonstrate effort and support teammates

• Uphold safe and respectful behavior

Parents should ensure prompt pickup after practices. Contingency transportation plans are strongly encouraged.

Financial Policy: Refunds

As a nonprofit, Falcons programs are self-funded through player fees. Due to upfront costs:

• 50% of fees are non-refundable upon registration

• The remaining 50% becomes non-refundable after the midpoint of the season

Refunds may be considered for:

• Relocation: If the family moves more than 20 miles from Greenville

• Medical: With proof of illness/injury

• No Refunds: For personal withdrawal, playing time concerns, or dismissal

Athlete Safety and Boundaries

• Supervision: Coaches are responsible for athletes only during official practices/games at Falcons-approved venues

• Transportation & Lodging: Parents must manage travel plans; Falcons does not arrange team travel or hotel bookings

• Boundaries: Coaches may not privately message or transport athletes without parental consent and background clearance

• Conduct: All interactions must reflect Christlike character and professionalism

Concussion & Safety Protocols

• Athletes suspected of concussion will be removed immediately

• Return-to-play requires written medical clearance

• Coaches complete annual concussion training

• Sports physicals are mandatory and must be renewed yearly

Zero Tolerance Policies

The Upstate Falcons strictly prohibit:

• Sexual Misconduct: Immediate reporting and legal compliance

• Bullying: All reports are investigated promptly—physical, verbal, or digital

• Drugs/Alcohol: Possession, use, or distribution results in immediate dismissal and possible legal involvement

• Weapons: Any weapon brought to an event will be confiscated and reported

Suspension and Dismissal

Head Coaches, in consultation with administration, may suspend athletes for behavior that threatens team unity or safety.

• Appeals: May be submitted within 72 hours of notification

• Investigations: Will be conducted respectfully and thoroughly

• Purpose: To correct behavior and protect the team environment

Tryouts and Team Selection

Team rosters are determined based on:

• Athletic potential

• Coachability

• Work ethic and team fit

• Attitude and commitment

No athlete is guaranteed a roster spot or playing time. Falcons coaches aim to develop each player through fair, prayerful, and informed decisions.

Uniforms

Uniform policies vary by team and sport. Regardless of ownership:

• Athletes must maintain uniforms in good condition

• Uniforms are for Falcons events only

• Damaged or lost items must be replaced by the athlete