PARENTS PLAYERS ATHLETIC HANDBOOK
KING’S ACADEMY ATHLETICS MISSION STATEMENT
King’s Academy Athletics cultivates competitive communities who are developing servant leaders, building intentional relationship and pursuing progress.
FELLOWSHIP OF CHRISTIAN ATHLETES (FCA)
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At King’s Academy, we believe athletics provide an incredible opportunity to grow not only as competitors but also as followers of Jesus Christ. Through our Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), student athletes are encouraged to develop a deeper relationship with Christ while building character, leadership, and strong relationships with their teammates.
FCA exists to inspire and equip coaches and athletes to live out their faith both on and off the field, court, and course. Meetings provide a welcoming environment where students can gather for biblical teaching, prayer, encouragement, and meaningful discussion about applying God’s Word to everyday life and athletic competition.
Participation in FCA helps student athletes understand that true success is measured not only by wins and losses but by faithfulness, integrity, humility, perseverance, and a commitment to honoring Christ in all they do. Students are challenged to become servant leaders who demonstrate Christlike attitudes, encourage their teammates, respect coaches and officials, and represent King’s Academy with excellence in competition and in the classroom.
Throughout the school year, FCA may include regular meetings, guest speakers, devotional opportunities, service projects, team prayer, leadership development, and fellowship activities. These experiences are designed to strengthen students spiritually while fostering unity within our athletic program.
Our desire is that every King’s Academy athlete recognizes that athletics are a platform to glorify God and positively impact others. As Scripture reminds us:
“Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.” - Colossians 3:23
We encourage every student athlete to participate in FCA as an opportunity to grow in faith, develop godly character, and become a Christ centered leader both in competition and in everyday life.
ATHLETICS OVERVIEW
King’s Academy offers athletic participation and competition for its students on various levels in both boys' and girls' athletics. King’s Academy currently offers athletic participation through the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) in:
Cross Country (Girls & Boys)
Track & Field (Girls & Boys)
King’s Academy participates in Minnesota Christian Athletic Conference (MCAC) in:
Boys Soccer
Girls Volleyball
Boys Basketball
Girls Basketball
Girls Soccer
Boys Volleyball
*All listed sports are offered through the MCAC when we have sufficient student athletes and coaching staff available to form a team.
*When a sport is not offered at King’s Academy. The school will do everything within its ability to help create co-op opportunities with St. Cloud School District 742.
*Co-op creations are decided upon by 742 and may not be available for King’s Academy students. This must be done 30 days prior to the start of the first practice.
**Please Note: Additional fees may be charged to families from 742 in addition to their school’s athletic fee.
CORE VALUES
COMMITMENT
Commitment is the building block for creating a culture of excellence. Commitment for King’s Academy student athletes, coaches, and staff members means we will honor God in everything we do, by committing to serve and honor each other; to practice, compete and work hard at our sport with joy and effort; to be physically and mentally prepared at all times; and be humble in victory and gracious in defeat.
INTEGRITY
Integrity is to be honorable and consistent in principles, intentions and actions. Coaches and student-athletes will hold each other accountable to be upright and fair in word and deed. When faced with challenges or temptations in practice and competition, our character will not be compromised nor decay, but instead, we will stand firm on the moral teachings and values of Jesus Christ.
DISCIPLINE
Discipline is the character trait that helps a student athlete and a team develop a consistent work ethic, self control, and focus needed to accomplish and reach goals. Discipline breeds success in the classroom, in competition, and assists in spiritual growth. King’s Academy athletes will see that discipline is a choice, and that progress and improvement come from hard work, persevering through challenging circumstances, and finishing tasks to the best of their abilities.
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
ACADEMIC & ATTENDANCE
Meet the academic requirements necessary to participate in games. (See page 13)
To be eligible to participate in practices or games, students must meet the following requirements:
Arrive at school by 11:30 a.m. to be eligible to practice or play that day
Attend school the day before a game and attend practice the day before a game to be eligible to compete
Students who miss school the day after a game will be ineligible to participate in the next scheduled game
Students with an excused absence (morning or afternoon) remain eligible to participate in practice or competition
Reminder: Athletes who are absent from school and/or practice the day before or the day after a game will not participate in the next scheduled game. We appreciate your commitment to consistent attendance, as it is essential for team preparation and fairness to all players.
CONDUCT
Treat coaches with respect and follow all instructions given by the coaching staff
Inappropriate language will not be tolerated at anytime and could be grounds for not participating in practice or a competition
Must be ambassadors in the community: Shine the light of Christ in all aspects of their life; in the classroom, in the community, and on/off the court/field
Demonstrate good sportsmanship toward officials, as well as opposing players, coaches and fans
Use or possession of drugs, alcohol and/or tobacco is prohibited at all times
Volunteer with the team as instructed by the coach at King’s Academy home games
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
PRACTICE AND GAMES
Arrive on time and attend all practices and competitions
Illness and emergencies will be the only excused absences. Work and other appointments must be scheduled so as not to interfere with practices and games
Traveling with the team to all road games is mandatory unless written/digital permission has been given by a parent and approved by the coach
Traveling home with parents after away games: You must make sure your coach is aware that your student will not be riding home on the bus. Each coach may have their own process for this such as a sign out sheet
LOGISTICS
Have current sport physical and registration forms on file in the athletic director’s office. Submit all the necessary forms and fees before the date listed on online registration form
Take proper care of uniforms and return them (cleaned and folded) to the head coach as soon as the sport season is over
A $150 fee will be charged to families who fail to return their uniform within one week after the season ends or who need to purchase a replacement uniform
Athletes are expected to come prepared for game days. Being ready to compete is part of representing King’s Academy with excellence. This includes arriving with all required uniform pieces and equipment. If an athlete forgets a uniform item, the Athletic Director will not issue replacement pieces. Students must take responsibility for their gear and preparation. Any athlete who arrives unprepared for game day will sit out of that competition.
This expectation helps build discipline, accountability, and respect for the team, values we want every Lion to carry with them on and off the field/court.
EXPECTATIONS OF PARENTS
Parents play a vital role in shaping the athletic experience at King’s Academy. We ask all families to partner with us by modeling responsibility, respect, and Christ centered character.
Support the athletic philosophy and uphold the values of sportsmanship, teamwork, and integrity
Ensure timely arrival for all practices and games
Pick up student athletes promptly after practices and competitions
Schedule non emergency medical and dental appointments outside of practices and game times whenever possible
Attend games when able to support your student athlete and the team
Demonstrate a positive attitude toward King’s Academy athletes, coaches, parents, and the Athletic Director
Treat opposing teams, coaches, officials, and fans with respect and dignity
Respect all game facilities and help keep bleachers and seating areas clean at home and away events. Please supervise young children closely during all athletic events. For safety reasons, children should never be running around any school facility unsupervised
For safety and stewardship of our brand new court, children may not play on the King’s Academy court during halftime. Please supervise your children closely and ensure they remain off the court.
Understand that your attitude shapes your child’s experience. How you speak about coaches, teammates, and officials directly influences how your child interprets their athletic journey
Understand the competition philosophy and level of play definitions (see page 11)
Meet volunteer requirements as outlined on your sports registration form, or pay the $250 opt out fee. Failure to meet volunteer expectations may limit future athletic participation
EXPECTATIONS OF PARENTS
PLAYING TIME & COACH AUTHORITY
King’s Academy coaches are hired by school administration and entrusted with full authority over team decisions, including playing time, roles, and game day strategy.
Playing time is not a topic for parent discussion. Parents may not address playing time with coaches at any time
Concerns related to safety, conduct, or communication may be directed to the Athletic Director. Decisions about who plays and how much, rest solely with the coaching staff
This policy protects team unity, supports healthy coach athlete relationships, and reinforces our commitment to discipline, respect, and trust within our athletic programs.
CONFLICT RESOLUTION
King’s Academy is committed to resolving concerns in a way that honors Christ and strengthens relationships.
Use the 24 Hour Rule. Allow a full day to reflect and pray before addressing a concern.
Meet directly with the coach to discuss the issue respectfully and privately
Address concerns only with those directly involved
If unresolved, a conference may be arranged with the Coach, Athletic Director, and Head of School
If necessary, the Athletic Director may notify the Head of School and/or School Board for further review
VOLUNTEERING EXPECTATIONS
We need volunteers in order to run an athletic program. Volunteering at sporting events is mandatory for those who have students on any of the King’s Academy athletic teams.
Volunteers may be assigned to any of the roles listed below, depending on scheduling needs. It is essential that volunteer positions are planned in advance so our home events run smoothly and safely.
Home Game Volunteer Areas
Admissions Table: 1 volunteer required per game
Concessions: 2-3 volunteers required per game
Gym Cleanup: 2-3 volunteers required at the end of last game
Volleyball Volunteer Roles
Line Judges: 2 required per game
Scoreboard Operator: 1 required per game
Scorebook Keeper: 1 required per game
Stat Keeper: 1 required per varsity game
Basketball Volunteer Roles
Scoreboard Operator: 1 required per game
Shot Clock Operator: 1 required per varsity game
Scorebook Keeper: 1 required per game
Stat Keeper: 1 required per varsity game
Volunteering Fees: This applies to all families whether an King’s Academy family, a King’s Academy staff member, and/or a Coop (homeschooled) family.
If you do not feel you are able to volunteer, you may pay $250 per sport/season to opt out of the volunteering commitment.
Volunteer shift requirements will be listed on your online sports registration form. It is the families responsibility to get shift coverage if there are unable to complete their assignment.
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COMPETITION PHILOSOPHY & DEFINITION OF LEVEL OF PLAY
King’s Academy participates in the Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) and the Minnesota Christian Athletic Conference (MCAC) for varsity competition. Playing time will vary from athlete to athlete, and head coaches determine who plays and when based on what is best for the team. Please do not expect equal playing time at any level. While we emphasize development and strive for more balanced opportunities at the lower levels of competition, playing time is still earned and not guaranteed.
COMPETITION PHILOSOPHY
King’s Academy Athletics strives for excellence in every facet: training, competition, and most importantly, discipleship. Our coaches are hired to be mentors and teachers who invest intentionally in each student athlete. We hold a high standard of commitment to both winning and spiritual growth. We also teach our athletes to have fun, enjoy their sport, and compete with passion and integrity.
VARSITY LEVEL (GRADES 7–12)
Varsity teams represent the highest level of competition at King’s Academy. Teams may include students from 7th–12th grade, and rosters are formed based on talent, commitment, and competitive readiness, not age.
Varsity Team Formation:
The varsity team is composed of the school’s strongest athletes
Players are selected based on ability, effort, attitude, and team needs
Coaches make all decisions regarding cuts, starters, and playing time
Varsity Playing Time Expectations:
The best players will play at this level
Players will not receive equal playing time
Not all players will play in every game
Some athletes may “float up” from JV to gain varsity experience, but playing time is not guaranteed
Coaches communicate their rationale when appropriate, but final decisions rest solely with the coaching staff
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COMPETITION PHILOSOPHY & DEFINITION OF LEVEL OF PLAY
JUNIOR VARSITY (JV A) & JUNIOR VARSITY B/C‑TEAM (GRADES 7–11)
The JV A and JV B/C Team levels are designed to develop athletes who are growing in their skills, commitment, and readiness for higher levels of competition. These teams emphasize fundamental skill development, team participation, and preparation for varsity play, while still maintaining competitive standards.
JV A TEAM:
JV A athletes should demonstrate strong fundamental skills, a high level of commitment, and readiness to compete at a faster pace. This level serves as the primary pipeline to varsity.
JV A is a developmental and competitive team
Coaches determine starters and playing time based on team needs, effort, ability, and readiness
Playing time is encouraged, but athletes with stronger skills or greater potential may receive more time
Coaches may tactfully encourage exploration of other activities if an athlete’s abilities are not progressing toward varsity readiness
JV B/C‑TEAM:
The JV B/C‑Team level is designed for athletes who are still developing foundational skills and need additional training before moving into JV A or varsity competition.
JV B/C Team athletes are in a training phase, building confidence and fundamentals
Coaches balance winning with whole team participation and skill development. Playing time is encouraged, but athletes with stronger fundamentals may receive more time
If an athlete’s abilities are not progressing, coaches may encourage exploration of other activities that better fit the student’s gifts
PLAYING TIME EXPECTATIONS (JV A & JV B/C‑TEAM)
Develop as many players as possible to prepare them for varsity
Playing time will not be equal among athletes
Not all players will play in every game
Some athletes may float up to JV A or varsity for experience, but playing time at higher levels is not guaranteed
ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY
This plan is designed to ensure that students participating in extracurricular activities, including sports, maintain a strong commitment to their academic responsibilities. It promotes a balance between athletics and academics, fostering an environment where students can excel in both areas.
ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Minimum GPA Requirement: Students must maintain a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale to be eligible to participate in extracurricular activities.
Academic Monitoring: Grades will be reviewed every two weeks. Students who fall below the 2.0 GPA requirement will be placed on academic probation for the following grading period.
Probationary Period: During the probationary period, students must show improvement in their grades and meet with a guidance counselor or academic dean for support and guidance. They will continue to participate in activities on a conditional basis.
Removal from Probation: If a student achieves a GPA of 2.0 or higher by the end of the probationary period, they will be removed from probation and regain full eligibility.
Ineligibility: Students who do not raise their GPA to 2.0 or higher by the end of the probationary period will become ineligible to participate in extracurricular activities until their GPA meets the required standard.
Continuous Monitoring: Academic performance will be continuously monitored throughout the school year. Regular check ins with the guidance counselor or academic dean will ensure that students receive the support they need to succeed. By maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0, students will demonstrate their dedication to both their academic and extracurricular commitments. This policy ensures that students prioritize their education while still enjoying the benefits and experiences of participating in extracurricular activities. With the appropriate support and resources, we aim to help every student achieve their full potential.
ATTENDANCE & MAKEUP WORK
At King's Academy, we believe in setting our student athletes up for success both on the field and in the classroom. When a student athlete is absent from school, the following guidelines apply:
MAKEUP WORK TIMELINE:
For each day of absence, students are given two (2) school days to complete and submit any missed assignments, assessments, or coursework. Teachers are expected to work collaboratively with students to ensure they have the resources and support needed to stay on track academically.
TEACHER SUPPORT:
Teachers should proactively communicate with returning students regarding missed work and provide reasonable accommodations to help them succeed. The goal is to create a supportive environment where students can manage both their athletic commitments and academic responsibilities.
ACCOUNTABILITY:
If it becomes apparent that a student athlete is taking advantage of this policy or not making a genuine effort to complete their work within the allotted time, the teacher will communicate their concerns to the Athletic Director. A conversation will then take place with the student to address expectations and ensure accountability moving forward.
This policy is designed to support our student athletes while maintaining the academic standards expected of all King's Academy students.
CHEMICAL INELIGIBILITY &
DISCIPLINARY INELIGIBILITY
CHEMICAL INELIGIBILITY
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The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) requires that chemical and tobacco eligibility rules apply to all participants from the first day of a student’s 7th‑grade year through graduation. In accordance with MSHSL policy, students may not possess, use, or consume controlled substances while participating in interscholastic activities. King’s Academy students will be declared ineligible for extra curricular participation for any of the following confirmed violations:
Possession or use of alcohol
Possession or use of any tobacco product
Possession or use of any controlled substance as defined by law Chemical Ineligibility Terms
First confirmed violation: Non-participation in extra curricular events for four weeks or the next two consecutive interscholastic events, whichever is longer.
Second and subsequent confirmed violations: Non participation in extra curricular events for the remainder of the school year or the next six consecutive interscholastic events, whichever is longer.
Participation While Ineligible: Students declared chemically ineligible may be permitted to participate in practice during the ineligibility period. Advisors and coaches may establish additional practice participation guidelines as needed.
Reinstatement
If a violation occurs between seasons, it is at the discretion of the advisor or coach to determine whether the student may join the activity or team at the start of the next season. Eligibility rules apply from the first practice of any school sponsored fall activity through the end of the school year.
DISCIPLINARY INELIGIBILITY
Extra curricular participation is a privilege. Disciplinary offenses may affect a student’s eligibility using the following framework:
1 Detention: student remains eligible
2 Detention: ineligible for 1 game
3 Detention: ineligible for 1 week or 2 games, whichever is fewer
4 Detention: ineligible for 1 week or 2 games, whichever is greater
Suspension: ineligible for 2 weeks or 2 games, whichever is greater Ineligibility takes effect within one week of the offense or confirmed disciplinary action. Coaches and Administration reserve the right to expedite decisions regarding eligibility including practice attendance, in cases involving bullying, safety concerns, or unreasonable offenses.
MSHSL & MCAC ELIGIBILITY
Eligibility Requirements for Homeschooled Students (Soccer, Volleyball & Basketball)
Students who are enrolled full time in the member school are eligible to be placed on that school’s eligibility list and participate in league activities offered by the school the student attends. Homeschool students meeting all MCAC eligibility requirements are allowed to be placed on a member school's league eligibility list and participate in league activities at the discretion of the member school if they meet the following qualifications: They are registered as a homeschool student with the district in which they live They have registered with the MCAC member school
The student's official transcript is issued by the parent/guardian or by the MCAC member school AND the parent/guardian assigns grades
One or more of the following is true:
Taught at home by a parent or legal guardian
Taught at home or someone else’s home, by a parent, a grandparent, older sibling, or another homeschool parent, if it is done under the instruction of the parent
Taught at a central location for a particular subject by a homeschool parent
Participation in homeschool co-ops are permissible. A co-op is described as a group of homeschool parents gathering in a central location and each parent teaches a different subject to all the students.
Homeschool students are not eligible to participate in any league activity if they are enrolled in any online school (some examples include K12.com, Time4Learning, Connections Academy, Minnesota Virtual Academy, Venture Upward, Khan Academy, etc…).
Students taking PSEO courses are eligible to participate in any league activity if they are registered through the member school or as a homeschool student.
Students are not eligible to participate in any league activity with a member school if they participate with a non-member school in an activity MCAC/MSHSL sponsors.
(i.e. if you play on the King's Academy Soccer team you cannot go to Tech and participate on their Track & Field Team)
MSHSL Eligibility Rules (Cross Country & Track and Field)
A homeschool student may compete for only one MSHSL member school. They cannot switch schools for different sports. For example, if a homeschool athlete plays football for Apollo, they must compete in all MSHSL sports through Apollo. Minnesota Statutes allow homeschool students to participate in League sponsored activities only for the school in their resident district attendance area. King’s Academy is assigned to St. Cloud Area School District 742.
ENROLLMENT & ATHLETIC
ELIGIBILITY FOR KING’S ACADEMY
Full‑time enrollment provides the strongest value and includes access to all athletics, school events, and student‑life programming at King’s Academy.
HALF-TIME ENROLLMENT (4 CLASSES)
Half-Time annual tuition includes four classes of your choosing, whether electives or core classes. Half-Time students may also participate on King's Academy athletic teams in both the MCAC and MSHSL. Students may be on campus only during their scheduled class times. They may not participate in any other school activities, or student life programming such as retreats, life groups, class trips, clubs, social events, dances or PSEO administrative support etc.
PART-TIME ENROLLMENT (2 CLASSES)
Part-Time annual tuition includes two classes of your choosing, whether electives or core classes. Part-Time students may participate in MSHSL athletics only. Students may be on campus only during their scheduled class times and may not participate in any student life programming such as retreats, life groups, class trips, clubs, social events, dances, or PSEO administrative support etc.
2026-2027 TO NOTE:
As a benefit extended to King's Academy coaches and employees, homeschooled students in your household are eligible to participate in both MCAC and MSHSL athletic teams (all homeschool policies must be followed).
For the 2026-2027 school year, King's Academy will grandfather in Seniors Only that participated on an athletic team in the 25-26 season, who are enrolled at the minimum part-time level as students of King's Academy.
If a roster cannot be filled by students currently enrolled at King's Academy, the Athletic Director has the discretion to allow participation from homeschool students who are not enrolled in part-time or half-time programs.
REQUIRED FORMS & WEATHER
WEATHER RELATED CANCELLATIONS
If school is dismissed due to weather, decisions about evening athletic activities will be made separately. Late afternoon practices on days when school is canceled may still occur at the discretion of the coach and administration. Families should monitor team communication channels for updates.
REQUIRED ATHLETIC FORMS
All athletes must complete the following before participating in any practice or competition:
Online athletic registration
Payment as listed on the registration form
Student/Parent Athletic Commitment Form
MSHSL Eligibility Brochure
Sports Physical (required in 7th and 10th grade, or every 3 years)
MSHSL Sports Health Questionnaire (included in the Eligibility Brochure; required annually for all athletes starting in 7th grade; clinic provided forms accepted) All registration requirements must be completed online prior to the first practice.
SPORTS INFORMATION & COMMUNICATIONS
Team information, including schedules, practice locations, updates, and results will be shared through:
TeamReach App (primary communication tool for coaches, players, and families)
King’s Academy Facebook & Instagram
King’s Academy “The Lions Roar” eNewsletter
COMMUNICATING WITH THE ATHLETIC DIRECTOR
For questions or concerns, please contact the Athletic Director directly:
Phone: 320.252.8182
Email: mrolfzen@stcloudchristian org
The Athletic Director will only use TeamReach for emergency notifications. TeamReach is intended solely for coaches to communicate with their teams.