The bill amends the Code of West Virginia by adding a new section, 18-2-25f, which addresses the participation of students, coaches, and athletic trainers in non-school-sponsored athletic events. It establishes that while participation in school-sponsored extracurricular sports is voluntary, individuals associated with school sports teams should not be denied opportunities to compete in non-school-sponsored events. The bill explicitly prohibits county boards of education and the West Virginia Secondary School Activities Commission from restricting such participation as a condition for being part of a school-sponsored activity.

However, the bill allows interscholastic coaches to prohibit players from missing team-related activities, such as games or practices, if they are competing in non-school-sponsored events. Additionally, it emphasizes that the requirements of the interscholastic team, as determined by the coach, must be prioritized leading up to and during postseason play. This ensures that while students have the freedom to participate in outside competitions, the commitments to their school teams remain a priority during critical times.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-2-25f
Committee Substitute: 18-2-25f