Athletic handbook approved 4–1 after debate on dual-sport rules and coach expectations

The board debated the proposed athletic handbook—covering eligibility, dual-sport participation procedures, coach responsibilities, emergency action plans, facility use, and coach evaluation—before approving it by a 4–1 vote.

Administrators proposed a process requiring coaches to meet and designate a primary and secondary sport and gave final administrative authority to principals and the athletic director. "Meeting with both coaches to establish expectations and determine primary and secondary sports designation," the superintendent said as he described the proposed eligibility process. Board members pressed to clarify language so a single coach could not unilaterally block a student from participating; the final draft replaces "approval" wording with an expectation that coaches meet and that administration has final authority.

A separate, contested issue was language about strength and conditioning expectations for coaches. One board member urged mandatory weekly lifting time; others warned that making demands on volunteer coaches could drive them away. The adopted language strongly encourages use of the weight room and ties utilization to annual evaluations rather than an absolute mandate.

During the roll call, Chair announced, "Mr. Barton's opposed," and the board recorded a 4–1 vote to approve the athletic handbook with the discussed amendments. The superintendent said the handbook is intended to provide clear administrative guidance and forms for coaching staff and to align local practice with WVSSAC requirements.

The handbook will be implemented as the district's administrative guidance for athletics; the board asked administration to circulate the finalized document and to provide any additional clarifications to coaches before the season starts.