SM East athletic director kicks off winter sports season

SM East first-year athletic director Jeremy Higgins got the winter sports season off to an official start Monday with “Meet the Coaches” night.

Before parents and students participating in boys and girls basketball, boys swimming, and wrestling met with the coaches, Higgins let them know about a set of policies that would be in effect this season. The athletic department has recently instituted a special study hall for any athlete earning a D or F in an academic course. Students with a low mark will have to come in on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 6:45-7:30 a.m. for extra time hitting the books.

Higgins also outlined the strict substance abuse policy. Any student athlete caught using tobacco, alcohol or illegal drugs will be suspended from play for the season on the first offense. A second offense leads to a 365 day suspension.