The intent of the Athletic Placement Process (formerly Selection Classification) is to provide for students in grades 7 through 12 a mechanism allowing them to participate safely at an appropriate level of competition based upon readiness rather than age and grade. Students do not mature at the same rate and there can be a tremendous range of developmental differences between students of the same age. The program is not to be used to fill positions on teams, provide additional experience, provide a place for junior high students when no modified program is offered, or reward a student. Instead, it is aimed at the few select students who can benefit from such placement because of their level of readiness. It will also be fairer to other students on the modified teams. This State Education program extends the high school eligibility of middle school students who are qualified.

A Board of Education may permit pupils in grades no lower than seventh to compete on any senior high school team, or permit senior high pupils to compete on any teams in grades no lower than seventh, provided the pupils are placed at levels of competition appropriate to their physiological maturity, physical fitness and skills in relationship to other pupils on those teams in accordance with standards established by the NYS Commissioner of Education – Commissioner’s Regulation Section 135.4 (c)(7)(ii)(a)(4).

Basic overview that can vary based on individual sport. Each of these steps must be completed before the next step can occur:

Step 1. Coach recommends student to AD and Nurse to go through the Athletic Placement Process

Step 2. Nurse sends home Parent/Guardian Permission Slip to be read, agreed upon, sign and returned
Step 3. Physical/Tanner Stage must reflect appropriate physical maturity
Step 4. Physical Fitness Testing- must meet or exceed state guidelines
Step 5. Tryout for team

Going through the APP does not guarantee that the child will make the team. It gives the coach the option to consider them and then place them at their appropriate level after seeing them in action.

To learn more about the APP, follow the link below, or for more specific questions related to the process at Oneonta City School District, please contact:

Katie Talbert

Athletic Director

607-433-8243 x2323

Oneonta Athletics