Editors note: The following includes information directly related to Chinook Junior and Senior High Schools as submitted by Chinook Athletic Director Paula Molyneaux. Harlem, Hays/Lodge Pole and Turner schools have similar policies in place as well. Please check with your school office to find out specific requirements, forms and policies for student athletes at your school.

The High School Fall Sports season is right around the corner with high school football, volleyball and cross country teams holding their first practice, Friday, August 13. Junior High student athletes will begin practice on Monday, August 16.

Before any student athlete can participate in any fall sport practice there are some things that need to be done. Chinook High School Athletic Director Paula Molyneaux reminds both parents and student athletes of what is required to participate this fall. New policies are in place and it’s imperative that everyone is aware of these requirements/changes.

A physical is required and needs to be submitted to the school prior to participating in practice. A Concussion Form also needs to be signed and turned in prior to any practice. Both forms as well as athletic schedules and practice times can be found on the school website http://chinookschools.org/high-school/athletics-sports.

There will be a parents meeting for JH/HS Volleyball in the gym on Monday, August 16 at 5:00 p.m. A meeting for Football parents will follow at 6:00 p.m.

There are expectations of more than 30 potential high school volleyball players. Unfortunately the Varsity and Junior Varsity can only support uniforms for 26 playing positions or less. As a result it is important for those individuals affected to be aware that try outs will be held August 13-17. If cuts are to be made, a player will not be able to try out after the last practice on August 17.

Paperwork required: In addition to the physical and concussion forms are an Inherent Risk, Activity Handbook and Blue Card. Blue Cards will be available for pickup at the parent meeting. All paperwork can also be found on Dragonflymax.com.

When logging into Dragonfly be sure to access ‘Chinook Schools’. ‘Chinook 7-8’ is NOT the right school. Inherent Risk and Handbook forms are on Dragonfly, the Student Activity Book is on the school website. Sign in at Dragonflymax.com - Chinook Schools 9URAKL.

Eligibility: For Eighth grade, sophomores, juniors and seniors a student athlete has to have passed all subjects they were enrolled in from the fourth quarter of the 2020-21 school year. For incoming freshman who plan to participate in football, volleyball or cheerleading only will be able to play immediately. If they are entering high school with failing grades from junior high or another school they will be placed on academic probation. Sixth and seventh graders are eligible based on their promotion to the next grade, after the first semester it is based on grades.

Home School Participation: This year, following the passage of Montana Law, home school students are eligible to participate in MHSA activities. All the same standards for participation must be met as those required of full time students minus enrollment. Eligibility academically must be attested to in writing by the educator providing student instruction and verified by the principal of Chinook High School. A home schooled student is also unable to transfer. A more detailed description of home school requirements can be found in the student handbook.

Covid Information: Good news is that there will be far fewer restrictions, but some will remain in place. As before if you are sick or simply don’t feel well stay home from both practice and games. Any student athlete will be sent home if they show signs of illness. Players and coaches are asked to wash hands and sanitize before and after each practice. Anyone working or attending the games are asked to follow the same protocols. Families are asked to sit together, kids are to be seated with the families and everyone is asked to follow ‘common sense’ social distancing measures. Concessions will be provided. The MHSA is expecting the fall season to be ‘business as usual’ with no COVID restrictions. It is also noted that Covid protocols may differ from facility to facility so be sure to check before you attend and as always be prepared to adapt.

Keep checking in with the school website to be notified of any up to the minute changes in schedule or protocol. Any questions regarding the student athletes sport specifically please contact the school or that sports respective head coach.