Directors Desk

Directors Desk is a monthly posting from Dr. Ralph Swearngin, GHSA Executive Director.

GHSA Office Reaching Out to Schools in Many Ways Now

I trust that you are aware that the GHSA web site (www.ghsa.net) has been greatly enhanced in the past few weeks. There are more resources available than ever before. It is the responsibility of administrators and coaches of member schools to know the GHSA rules and procedures that affect their students and their competitive programs. That information is found on the GHSA web site.

All of Us Must ‘Pay the Price’ for Student-Athlete Wellness

Tue, 03/05/2013 - 8:36am -- res
In “History and Philosophy of Education” courses many of us learned that an early concept in the American educational system involved the school operating “in loco parentis” – in the place of the parent. During those early days, that concept was applied to the authority of school personnel to regulate the behavior of students. Over time, however, the application of that concept to school discipline has diminished.
 

Time to Review What Sportsmanship Means in the GHSA

Sun, 02/10/2013 - 9:20pm -- res
A number of complaints about the types of cheers that basketball cheerleaders have been leading have been sent to the GHSA office. The complaints allege that the bothersome cheers have directed taunting comments to the opposing players, cheerleaders, and fans. There have also been concerns about personal comments yelled at players at different times during the games – especially when free throws are being shot.
 

Do You Still Have a ‘Positive’ Pride in Your School?

Thu, 11/01/2012 - 3:27pm -- res

PRIDE is an interesting word that carries a variety of meanings. “Back in the day” many people expressed pride in their schools and their athletic programs with the phrase “school spirit.” Sportsmanship emphases then urged people to support their school in ways that did not detract from the reputation of their school by belittling opponents.

‘Year of Adjustments’ Will Be Challenge for Office and Schools

Mon, 10/01/2012 - 3:40pm -- res

The 2012-2013 GHSA school year may well be named the “Year of Adjustments.”

This was the way I began my Executive Director’s Report to the GHSA Executive Committee at the fall meeting. Many far-reaching policies and procedures were en- acted to begin this year, and all of us will face a large number of adjustments. I want to highlight just a few of the major changes that the GHSA membership will have to face.