The Clinton High School Athletic Department held its 2010 Student-Athlete Informational Meeting on Thursday night in the auditorium at the new high school.

New Athletic Director David Barnes addressed a large crowd of students, coaches, and parents.  He discussed the importance of Athletic Insurance and that it would serve as a secondary policy.  Since Volleyball will be the only sport initially played at the new high school, each athlete must complete and sign a transportation waiver.  This form will be mandatory for all student-athletes whether they drive or ride.

“Student-athletes are students first,” stressed Barnes.  He wants parents to transfer the same excitement and enthusiasm they have for their children’s performance on the field or court to the classroom.  Athletes need to keep up with their grades and keep track of their eligibility to play.

Jimmy Webb, Booster Club President, also spoke to the assembly highlighting the importance of the booster club for all sports at Clinton High School.  Funds raised by the Booster Club have provided banquets for the athletes, purchased two buses and restored a third, bought weight room equipment and ice machines and many more items necessary for the Athletic Department.  The Booster Club meets the first Monday of every month and every parent is encouraged to join.

Walter Gary made a presentation about NCAA eligibility.  Many of the athletes in attendance have ambitions to play at the Division I or Division II level.  In order to do so there are certain GPA standards, SAT or ACT levels to be met, and core classes to be taken.  The coaches and Guidance Counselors will work with the athletes to help guide them through this process and aid them in achieving and maintaining NCAA eligibility.