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 sports is voluntary, individuals associated with school teams should not be denied opportunities to compete in non-school 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 during the lead-up to and throughout the postseason. This legislation aims to balance the opportunities for student-athletes while maintaining the integrity and commitment to their school teams.

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