Outlining
the decision process could bring a more complete picture to this discussion.
First
and foremost, being on ANY team is always a privilege, NOT a right, regardless of where you pursue your academics. Additionally,
in 2011 the NJSIAA amended their eligibility rules to "allow" the homeschooled athlete to participate in NJ public school
sports but at the discretion of the district, which means the decision process starts with the local school administration.
The district will likely ask their administrators and coaches if they would like this option available to them. If they do,
then the coaching staff could allow the home-educated student to try out and see if the athlete would be an all-around asset
to their team. There is NO obligation for a tryout. If the coach decides the athlete could bring a positive contribution
to the team, then the requirements as set forth for eligibility will need to be demonstrated.
The
"taxes" part of this discussion usually comes from a spirit of entitlement that we do NOT espouse. We believe that the
door of access falls on those who have the most vested interest, meaning the school, and there should be no reason to argue
against the optional participation process if followed in the above manner. A good suggestion before seeking access is
to have an off-season meeting with the coach to see if he/she is even interested in your athlete trying out for the following
year. If the coach sponsors any open workouts or clinics you could also plan on attending these events. If the
coach is not interested, you will save yourself a lot of energy and will still be able to seek out other options for
your student before the competitive year begins.
HELPFUL
TIPS
-
teach your child to always be a team player and to be respectful to coaches and fellow athletes
-
build positive community relationships through your township sports programs
-
be respectful to your local district, your local school administrators, and your coaches at all times
- always
contribute to your teams in a positive way, both as an athlete and as the athlete's family
-
positively contribute to the climate of your team competitions
- do not come from a place of "entitlement" but
rather a heartfelt place of appreciation towards your coaches and any school staff
