Athletic Handbook for Parents & Student Athletes

Provo High School offers a wide variety of athletic opportunities for high school students. Provo High is a member school of the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA). All athletic activities are governed by the guidelines and bylaws of the UHSAA.

As coaches and educators, it is both an honor and a responsibility to help guide your sons and daughters through some of the most formative experiences of their high school years. We believe that athletics are far more than extracurricular—they are an essential tool for shaping young people into dependable, disciplined, and determined leaders.

Our athletic program is built on the foundation of teaching life through sports. We use the structure, rigor, and demands of competition to instill in our student-athletes:

• how to work hard with purpose and persistence,
• how to maintain a positive attitude under pressure,
• how to sacrifice individual wants for the good of the team,
• how to respond to adversity with mental toughness, and
• how to lead by example—on the field, on the court, in the classroom, and in the community.

We believe that success is a process. It is not random or reserved for the lucky few. Because a process is both repeatable and predictable, so is success. It comes not from hoping and wishing, but from consistently doing the right things the right way—over and over again.

Winning is important. We want to win. You should want your sons and daughters to win. But more important than the scoreboard is the development of the habits and character that produce lasting success in all areas of life. A “win at all costs” mindset will eventually lead to failure—on the field and far beyond it. That is not our philosophy.

Our mission is to build winners in every sense of the word. We are committed to developing young people of integrity, resilience, humility, and strength. Thank you for trusting us with that mission.

Together, we will make this an athletic program our school, community, and families can be proud of.

Esports

• Tory Norman: toryn@provo.edu

Music- Vocal Instrumental

• Kenny Wiser: kennethw@provo.edu
• Jennifer Lacayo: jenniferl@provo.edu
• Deven Halcomb: devenh@provo.edu

Theater

• Bob Bauer: robertba@provo.edu

Fall Sports

• Boys Cross Country
• Girls Cross Country
• Football
• Boys Golf
• Girls Soccer
• Girls Volleyball
• Girls Tennis

Winter Sports

• Boys Basketball
• Girls Basketball
• Competitive Cheer
• Boys Swimming
• Girls Swimming
• Boys Wrestling
• Girls Wrestling

Spring Sports

• Baseball
• Girls Track Golf
• Boys Lacrosse
• Girls Lacrosse
• Boys Soccer
• Softball
• Boys Tennis
• Boys Track & Field
• Girls Track & Field
• Boys Volleyball

Offered Activities

• Esports
• Music- Vocal & Instrumental
• Theater

Participation in extracurricular activities within the Provo City School District is a privilege that carries the responsibility of upholding high standards of behavior. Students involved in athletics and other extracurricular programs are expected to:

Academic Eligibility

• Full-Time Enrollment: Students must be enrolled full-time, meeting the school’s criteria for academic performance to participate in activities.

Behavioral Expectations

• Exemplary Conduct: As representatives of their school, students should demonstrate integrity, respect, and responsibility both on and off campus.
• Adherence to Laws and Policies: Compliance with all school rules, district policies, and local, state, and federal laws is mandatory.
• Year-Round Commitment: The Code of Conduct applies year-round, encompassing all periods of the student’s involvement in extracurricular activities.

Consequences for Violations

Violations of the Code may result in disciplinary actions, including suspension or removal from activities. Both students and their parents/guardians are required to sign an acknowledgment form, confirming their understanding and agreement to abide by these standards.

For a detailed overview, please refer to the full document:

• Code of Conduct

Enrollment and Residency

Student athletes must meet one of the following criteria to be eligible to participate with a Provo High team.

• Students must be enrolled and attending Provo High School.
• Homeschooled students must live in Provo High boundaries.
• Dual enrollment students must meet USBE dual enrollment requirements.
• Students who attend a charter school that does not offer your sport must live in Provo High boundaries.

Age Eligibility

No student shall be eligible to participate in Association activities who has reached nineteen (19) years of age prior to the first day of September.

Academic Eligibility for UHSAA Activities

To participate in Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) sanctioned activities, students must meet the following academic standards:

• Be enrolled full-time at the school they represent or meet Utah State Board of Education dual enrollment requirements.
• Earn a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale and have no more than one failing grade in the previous grading period. A multi-period class failure counts as multiple failures.
• Students who do not meet these standards are ineligible to participate during the next grading period. However, final term deficiencies may be made up before the new school year using an approved method in the same subject area.
• Eligibility is determined when grades are officially posted by the school registrar—no more than five school days after the grading period ends. Grade changes after posting do not restore eligibility unless due to a documented clerical error.
• Schools may implement stricter academic

Transfer Rules – UHSAA Guidelines

The Transfer Rule helps maintain fairness and balance in education-based sports by regulating athlete movement between schools. It ensures competition remains focused on community, teamwork, and character development—not just athletic performance.

Eligibility After Transfer 

• A student who transfers is ineligible for varsity competition in any sport they played at any level in the previous 12 months until after 50% of the season has passed (or 30 days after the competition start date, whichever is longer).
• If a student transfers again without meeting any exception criteria, they are ineligible for varsity competition for one full year.
• Students may participate immediately at the varsity level in sports they did not play in during the past year.
• Sub-varsity competition is allowed in any sport after transfer if the student meets all other eligibility requirements.
• Once a student attends the new school, they lose eligibility at the previous school.

Exceptions Allowing Immediate Eligibility 

A student may become immediately eligible at the new school if they meet one of these criteria:

1. School Closure – Sending school shuts down.
2. Sport Discontinued – Sending school drops the sport.
3. Disciplinary Removal – Must serve a one-year ineligibility or meet re-admittance conditions.
4. Guardianship – Certain legal and custodial conditions met (e.g., court-placed ward, foster care).
5. Death in Family – With documentation, move may qualify.
6. Divorce – Legal decree and relocation required.
7. Bona Fide Change of Residence – Entire family moves permanently to a new school boundary, certified by both schools.
8. Anti-Bullying Exception – Documented and investigated bullying forces transfer, with full compliance from the school district and proper documentation.

Clear and respectful communication is essential to the success of our athletic program. It fosters mutual understanding, builds trust, and helps create a positive environment for all involved—students, parents, coaches, and administrators.

Guiding Philosophy

We believe that athletics provide a powerful platform for teaching personal responsibility, accountability, and self-advocacy. Therefore, we encourage student-athletes to take the lead in communicating with their coaches whenever questions, concerns, or conflicts arise.

Communication Pathway

If an issue arises, the following process should be followed in order:

1. Player to Coach
   1. The first step should always be a direct and respectful conversation between the student-athlete and their coach. Learning to advocate for oneself in a mature manner is an important life skill we strive to teach through athletics.
2. Parent to Coach
   1. If the issue remains unresolved after the student has met with the coach, parents are encouraged to reach out and respectfully request a time to speak with the coach.
3. Parent/Coach/Administrator Meeting
   1. If additional support is needed, a meeting involving the parents, coach, and the Athletic Director may be scheduled. In some cases, the student-athlete may be invited to participate in the meeting to ensure open and honest communication.

Meeting Expectations

• Meetings should be scheduled in advance. We kindly ask that concerns not be raised immediately before or after practices or games, when emotions are high and coaching staff are focused on team management.
• There is a mandatory 24-hour cool-down period following any competition. Coaches will not engage in conversations with parents until this 24-hour window has passed, unless the matter is urgent and requires immediate attention.
• All parties should enter meetings with the intent to listen, seek understanding, and work toward a positive resolution.

Playing Time

We understand that playing time is a sensitive and often emotional topic. Our coaching staff is committed to fairness, development, and putting the team in the best position to succeed.

• Coaches will gladly discuss your student-athlete’s current role on the team and provide constructive feedback on how they can improve to earn more playing time.
• However, we will not engage in discussions that involve comparing athletes or debating coaching decisions related to other players.
• As a department, we believe in the principle that performance equals playing time.

We appreciate your partnership in modeling respectful and solution-focused communication. By following this process, we can ensure that our athletic environment remains supportive, respectful, and centered on student growth and development.

At Provo High School, we uphold the highest standards of sportsmanship, reflecting our commitment to integrity, respect, and excellence in all athletic endeavors. Our sportsmanship policy aligns with the Provo City School District’s expectations and the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) guidelines.

Core Principles

1. Respect for All:
   • All participants, including athletes, coaches, officials, and spectators, shall be treated with dignity and respect. Disrespectful behavior, including taunting, racial slurs, or derogatory comments, is strictly prohibited.
2. Integrity in Competition:
   • Athletes and coaches are expected to compete honorably, adhering to the rules and spirit of the game. Unsportsmanlike conduct undermines the values we strive to instill.
3. Positive Representation:
   • Participants represent not only themselves but also Provo High School and the broader community. Conduct should reflect positively on our institution at all times.

Expectations for Stakeholders

• Athletes:
  • Demonstrate humility in victory and grace in defeat. Refrain from unsportsmanlike gestures or language./
• Coaches:
  • Model exemplary behavior, emphasizing the importance of character and respect over winning at all costs.
• Spectators:
  • Support teams positively. Negative comments, booing, or confrontational behavior toward officials, players, or other spectators are unacceptable.

Enforcement and Consequences

Violations of this policy may result in disciplinary actions, including but not limited to:

• Athletes: Suspension from games or removal from the team.
• Coaches: Reprimand, suspension, or termination of coaching duties.
• Spectators: Removal from the venue and potential bans from future events.

These measures are in accordance with UHSAA’s commitment to promoting good citizenship and respect in all activities.

Commitment to Excellence

By participating in Provo High School athletics, all stakeholders commit to upholding these standards, ensuring a positive and respectful environment that fosters growth, teamwork, and community pride.

In order for students to participate in athletics at Provo High School, all athletes must complete the registration process each school year through Aktivate.com. This process ensures compliance with school, district, and state athletic requirements.

Step-by-Step Registration on Aktivate.com

1. Go to www.aktivate.com
   • Click on “Log In” if you already have an account.
   • If this is your first time registering, click “Create an Account” and follow the prompts to create a parent/guardian account.
2. Add a Student
   • Once logged in, select “Register for a Sport.”
   • Choose Provo High School from the list of schools.
   • Enter your student’s information and select the sports) they wish to participate in.
3. Upload Required Documents
   • Annual Physical Exam: A current physical must be completed and signed by a licensed medical provider after April 15th for the upcoming school year. The physical form can be downloaded directly from the Aktivate platform or the PHS Athletics website.
   • Proof of Insurance: All students must have health insurance coverage. You may upload a copy of your insurance card. If your student is not currently insured, short-term school insurance plans are available-contact the athletic office for more information.
   • Consent Forms: During registration, you will be prompted to sign electronic waivers and consent forms, including:
     • Parent/Guardian consent to participate
     • Risk acknowledgment
     • Media release
     • Code of Conduct agreements
4. Submit Registration
   • Once all required forms and documents are uploaded and all signatures are completed, submit the registration for review.
   • You will receive a confirmation email when your student is cleared to participate.

Important Notes

• No student will be allowed to try out, practice, or compete until registration is complete and approved.
• Physicals are valid for one year and must be renewed annually.
• If your student participates in multiple sports, you will have to register your student for each sport—you can select multiple sports within the same registration.
• If you need assistance, the Provo High Athletic Office is available to help guide you through the process.

Provo High Athletics provides opportunities to student athletes and their families fundraising activities that help pay for the expenses of participating in high school athletics. Fundraising is a valuable part of enhancing the student experience at Provo High School. In compliance with Provo City School District Policy 6110, all fundraising activities must be conducted ethically, transparently, and with student welfare as the top priority.

Purpose of Fundraising

Fundraising efforts are designed to:

• Support and enhance academic, athletic, and co-curricular programs.
• Strengthen partnerships between schools and the community.
• Provide equitable opportunities for all students.
• Ensure donations and funds are used appropriately and legally.

Key Guidelines

Approval & Oversight

• All fundraising activities must be approved in writing by the schobl principal or superintendent.
• Fundraisers must be supervised by a designated faculty or staff member.
• Funds must be deposited into school-controlled accounts and used for the approved purpose.

Student Participation

• Students may not be required to fundraise in order to participate on a team or in a school program.
• Fundraising participation may not affect a student’s grade, standing, or playing time.
• Door-to-door sales are prohibited for elementary and middle school students. High school students may engage in door-to-door fundraising with appropriate supervision.

Types of Fundraising

• Individual Fundraising: Volunteer opportunities for students to offset personal fees.Amounts must be included on the school’s approved fee sheet.
• Group Fundraising: Required to support team travel or program participation. Proceeds benefit all participants equally. Non-participation may impact eligibility for travel, but not grades or program membership.

Use of Funds

• All funds raised become public funds and property of the District.
• Donations must be used for their stated purpose and cannot personally benefit school employees.
• Fundraising proceeds may support travel, equipment, facilities, and performance opportunities.

Private Fundraising

• Booster clubs and other private entities must not use the school name or logo without written permission from the District.
• These groups must maintain transparent financial practices and clearly identify themselves as private organizations.

General Standards

• No sales quotas or personal fundraising minimums may be imposed.
• Prizes or incentives must be pre-approved by the principal.
• Fundraising activities that pose safety or liability risks will not be approved.

Transparency & Accountability

• All fundraising must be properly documented and reported.
• Parents, students, and donors may request to review financial summaries of fundraising efforts.
• Personally identifiable student information remains protected under FERPA.

For more information or to submit a fundraising proposal, please contact the Provo High School administration. Full policy available at the link below:

• Donation and Fundraising Policy

Accessing the Fee Schedules

• The district’s centralized repository for all school fees is available on the Provo City School District School Fees page. This page provides detailed information on fees organized by activity type and location.
  • School Fees Page
• For Provo High School-specific fees, including athletics, clubs, and academic programs, please refer to the Provo High School Fees page. This page outlines the required participation fees and maximum school activity fees for various programs.
  • Participation Fees Page

Key Points

• Fee Waivers: Families who qualify for fee waivers can find information and application forms on the district’s website.
• Payment Deadlines: It’s important to adhere to payment deadlines to ensure your student’s participation in desired activities.
• Additional Costs: Some activities may have additional costs not covered by the standard fees, such as travel expenses or specialized equipment. For any questions or assistance regarding activity fees, please contact the Provo High School administration office.

For any questions or assistance regarding activity fees, please contact the Provo High School administration office.

• Patty Fahriger – pattyf@provo.edu
• John Stutznegger – jstutznegger@provo.edu

Provo High School is fortunate to have on-campus athletic trainers dedicated to supporting the health and performance of our student-athletes. Their mission is to ensure the safety of our athletes while providing the highest quality care to keep them on the field and performing at their best.

Our athletic trainers are certified professionals who are responsible for evaluating injuries, administering treatment, and determining when it is safe for an athlete to return to play. Their decisions regarding player participation are final and made in the best interest of the student’s health and long-term well-being.

We take injury prevention and recovery seriously. In compliance with Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) guidelines. We work closely with our trainers to monitor all aspects of student-athlete health and safety. The athletic trainer has the final authority on whether a player is cleared to return to participation following any injury or illness. Their evaluations and return-to-play decisions are made in coordination with medical professionals when necessary.

If a physician restricts a student-athlete from participation via a medical note, that same physician-or another qualified medical professional-must provide written clearance before the athlete may return to play. This clearance often comes after a set period of rest or a follow-up evaluation.

We highly encourage families to consult with physicians who have a sports medicine background when seeking treatment for athletic injuries. These professionals are uniquely equipped to understand the physical demands of competitive sports and provide the most effective care for a safe and efficient recovery.

Concussion Management Policy

At Provo High School, the safety and well-being of our student-athletes are paramount. In alignment with the Utah High School Activities Association (UHSAA) Concussion Management Plan, we have established the following protocols to effectively manage concussions:

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a direct or indirect blow to the head, neck, or body, resulting in an impulsive force transmitted to the brain. Symptoms may appear immediately or evolve over time and can include:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Balance problems
• Difficulty concentrating or remembering
• Loss of consciousness (in some cases)

Immediate Response

• Removal from Play: Any athlete suspected of sustaining a concussion will be immediately removed from practice or competition.
• No Same-Day Return: Athletes will not return to play on the same day of the suspected concussion.
• Medical Evaluation: The athlete will be evaluated by an appropriate health-care professional as soon as possible.

Return-to-Play (RTP) Protocol

Before resuming athletic activities, the following steps must be completed:

1. Medical Clearance: The athlete must receive written clearance from a qualified health-care professional trained in concussion management.
2. Graduated RTP Protocol: After medical clearance, the athlete will undergo a step-wise return-to-play protocol, which includes:
   • Step 1: Light aerobic activity
   • Step 2: Moderate activity
   • Step 3: Heavy, non-contact activity
   • Step 4: Practice and full contact
   • Step 5: Competition

If symptoms recur at any stage, the athlete will return to the previous step after a 24-hour rest period.

Education and Training

• Athletes and Parents/Guardians: Will receive educational materials on concussion awareness and management.
• Coaches and Staff: Are required to complete annual training on concussion recognition and management, such as the NFHS “Concussion in Sports” course.

Documentation

All incidents of suspected concussions, evaluations, and clearance forms will be documented and maintained by the school’s athletic department.

For more detailed information, please refer to the full UHSAA Concussion Management Plan:

• UHSAA Concussion Management Plan