W. Va. Code R. § 127-2-11

Current through Register Vol. XLI, No. 50, December 13, 2024

Section 127-2-11 - Amateur

11.1. A student who represents a school in an interscholastic sport shall be an amateur in that sport. An amateur athlete is one who engages in athletic competition solely for the physical, mental, social, and pleasure benefits derived therefrom. An athlete forfeits amateur status in a sport by:

11.1.a. competing for money or other monetary compensation (allowable travel, meals, and lodging expenses may be accepted);

11.1.b. receiving any award or prize of monetary value which has not been approved by the WVSSAC;

11.1.c. capitalizing on athletic fame by receiving money or gifts of monetary value (scholarships to institutions of higher learning are specifically exempted);

11.1.d. signing a professional playing contract in that sport.

11.2. Accepting a nominal, standard fee or salary for instructing, supervising, or officiating in organized youth sports program or recreation, playground, or camp activities shall not jeopardize amateur status. "Organized youth sports program" includes both school and non-school programs. Compensation for giving private lessons is permissible if approved by the WVSSAC.

11.3. A student who loses amateur status may apply to the WVSSAC for reinstatement in the interscholastic program after a waiting period of one complete high school season (starting practice date through state tournament or end of season) for that sport.

11.4. A senior student may participate in a professional tryout either during or after the season of that sport provided that:

11.4.a. it does not occur on the day of a school contest of that sport; and

11.4.b. it meets with the principal's approval.

W. Va. Code R. § 127-2-11