Sellers Middle School. Cheerleader Tryouts

Transcription

1 Sellers Middle School Cheerleader Tryouts

2 Paperwork Checklist Here is a list of the paperwork items that must be turned in for each candidate BEFORE clinic starts on Monday, March 20, Tryout Application Parent Release Form Candidate Form Pre-participation Physical Evaluation Official Report Card $10 clinic fee (cash only)

3 Dear Parents and Guardians of Cheerleader Candidates, Your child has expressed an interest in becoming a member of the Sellers Middle School 7th or 8th grade cheerleading squad for the school year. If selected, there will be certain personal and financial responsibilities and obligations, which your child must assume in order to qualify and remain a member in good standing. Participation in the GISD cheerleading program carries both a significant time and financial commitment. Each cheerleader is expected to meet all financial responsibilities identified by their specific campus. This packet contains all of the information that you will need to know before making the decision on whether or not to allow your child to try out for cheerleader. We hope that you, as a parent/guardian of a perspective cheerleader, are aware of the time and energy it takes to be an effective student leader here at Sellers. It is our intention that after reading through this packet with your child, you will discuss the expectations and obligations of being a Sellers cheerleader with your child. Being a cheerleader makes your child a leader in our school. We believe our school and our students are Better than the Best! and we expect the cheerleaders to set good examples of student conduct at all times. We want our cheerleaders to be exemplary citizens exhibiting high moral and academic standards. We have set forth guidelines that will make our cheerleaders role models in our building. Our organization helps students form friendships, improve communication skills, and develop leadership skills that will prove to be beneficial later in life. A MANDATORY parent and candidate informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, March 7, 2018, at 6:00 p.m. in the cafeteria to go over the tryout process and discuss any questions you may have. All potential candidates, as well as a parent or guardian, are required to attend unless prior arrangements have been made with the sponsors. We wish all candidates the best of luck. Please read this packet carefully and be sure you fully understand each rule and procedure BEFORE signing. The last pages of this packet must be signed and returned by 4:00 PM Monday, March 19, 2018 BEFORE clinic starts. You cannot participate without all forms submitted. No late applications will be accepted!!! Heather Elliott Sponsor Vikki Mahagan Principal Tryout information packets to each middle and high school in the Garland Independent School District are available on the district website: The GISD Cheer Constitution can also be found at this link.

4 Garland ISD Cheerleading Description Being a cheerleader is an honor and special privilege. Cheerleaders and spirit groups exist to promote good sportsmanship, good citizenship, wholesome, and enthusiastic school spirit and are first and foremost representatives of their school. Cheerleaders should exemplify both individual and group behavior suitable to their position and in accordance with the rules as stated in the GISD Student Code of Conduct. Members of these groups have a fundamental responsibility to play a leadership role in building teamwork and helping the school achieve its goals and objectives. Because of these responsibilities, members of the cheerleading squad will be expected to maintain a higher standard of behavior both on and off campus and academic achievement than that of their peers. Commitment Dedication to, and the prioritization of, cheerleading is obligatory from all cheerleaders to meet the objectives of the program. Candidates selected to be a member of the cheerleading squad are expected to maintain their commitment to the activity for the full cheerleading year. Prior to committing to other school activities, cheerleaders should carefully consider specific program requirements, as involvement in other activities may cause time and participation conflicts with cheerleading duties. Any cheerleader who voluntarily quits the squad before the end of the cheerleading year without the approval of the principal and sponsor will not be allowed to try out for the next year on any GISD campus. A list of spring and summer obligations for Sellers cheerleaders will be given to each new member when the information becomes available. It is very important that all newly selected cheerleaders attend all practices and functions noted. The absence of any member affects the productivity of the entire squad. In addition to all the practices and games, Sellers cheerleaders will have other duties which they will be required to perform throughout the school year and summer. These duties include, but are not limited to, planning pep rallies, painting signs for games and pep rallies, and acting as hostesses for various school activities. A great amount of time and energy will also be asked of the parents/guardians in providing transportation to and from all activities and in other miscellaneous functions during the year.

5 Cheerleader Expectations Expectations for cheerleaders and other student leaders at Sellers Middle School are extremely high. Please make sure you have read this packet VERY carefully, as it describes the schedule requirements and rules for elected cheerleaders. There are several changes pending the District Constitution this year. Please pay attention to any updates you will receive as they will override anything stated in this packet. If you cannot abide by the schedule, requirements, and/or rules, please reconsider trying out. Grades: Cheerleaders must maintain passing grades or risk extended probation/termination. All cheerleaders will complete weekly grade checks starting the week after tryouts. Grade sheets are due every week on Wednesday mornings before first period unless otherwise determined by the sponsors. Time: If elected, plan to spend an average of two to three hours per week practicing cheers, chants and skits for cheerleading performances. We will also cheer at all football and basketball games from September- February. Games require an average of three hours per week in addition to the above mentioned practice time. Transportation: Each parent/guardian must arrange for his/her own child's ride to and from games, practices and cheerleading functions. You will be given a calendar for all cheerleading functions. Therefore, parents are responsible for their child's timely arrival to events. *Cheerleaders will be issued demerits (which leads up to benching of performances) if parent/guardian is more than 15 minutes late picking them up. After two warnings, a decision will be made by sponsor and principal for possible removal from the squad. Attendance: Do not plan to try out for cheerleader unless you plan to attend all games, practices and cheerleader functions. Please familiarize yourself with the Cheer Constitution for information on what is excused and what is not excused. The GISD Cheer Constitution can be found at the following link. Rules: Keep in mind that being a cheerleader is a privilege. The strictest consideration for, and adherence to all rules is mandatory.

6 Tryout Eligibility Academic Details If participant has failed any class during the 4 th grading cycle, they must provide a progress report showing passing grades to participate in the Cheerleading Clinic. All participants trying out for the squad must turn in an OFFICIAL Report Card for this school year so far. Students may ask the front office for a copy of their official report card if they misplaced their copy. Enrollment A student is eligible to tryout for cheerleader if either of the two conditions are met: At the time of the tryout, the student is enrolled in the Garland Independent School District and is trying out at the school where the student is registered to attend for the next school year. If the student is not currently enrolled in the GISD, but is registered to attend a GISD campus for the next school year, the student may try out at that campus. A student may try out at only one GISD school. Discipline Any student who has an excessive number of disciplinary referrals (3 or more), has been placed in in-building suspension, suspended from school, or has been placed in an Alternative Education Center by any GISD campus administrator will not be eligible to participate in tryouts without approval from the principal and sponsor.

7 Paperwork Physical Evaluation: Pre-Participation Physical Evaluation Medical History Form Please note that you are NOT required to have a physical exam prior to tryouts unless you answer yes to questions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6. If none of these apply, you only need to turn in the first page. If you answer yes to any of these questions, you must have a physical exam and must turn in both pages of the form with your application packet before clinic starts on March 19, *Candidates selected to the squad must have a physical on file dated AFTER May 1, Application and Release Forms: All paperwork must be turned in by 4:00 p.m. on Monday, March 19, Please return all paperwork to Coach Elliott in room 7: Application Parent/Guardian Release Form Candidate Agreement Form Pre-participation Physical Evaluation Copy of most recent report card *If you failed the 4 th grading cycle, you must also bring a signed copy of your progress report from the 5 th grading cycle. $10 cash for clinic

8 Clinic Only students who are academically eligible may attend the clinics. Ineligible students may participate in the one-day panel tryout only. The Clinic will cost $10.00 per candidate. This covers the cost for the choreographer. The $10.00 must be paid in cash or money order. No checks will be accepted! The Clinic is not mandatory, but the candidate will be held accountable for the material taught during the clinic. The clinic will be held in the practice gym with the choreographer on: a. Monday, March 19, 2018 from 4-6 pm Dress needs to be appropriate for moving and jumping. No tank tops. Hair must be in a ponytail, no jewelry, etc. Cheers, dance, and jumps to be used at tryouts will be taught at the clinic. No video of the clinic will be allowed at any time. The clinic is a CLOSED event. Only candidates will be allowed in the practice gym. A CD copy of the music will be provided for the candidates to practice Schedule: Wednesday, March 7, 2018 Parent Meeting in cafeteria 6:00 PM *Before March 19, 2018 at 4:00pm paperwork/clinic fee due to Coach Elliott (RM 7) Monday, March 19, 2018 Tryout Clinic Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 PM Tuesday, March 20, 2018 Clinic Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 PM Wednesday, March 21, 2018 Clinic Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 PM Thursday, March 22, 2018 Mock Tryouts Competition Gym 4:00-6:00 PM Saturday, March 24, 2018 Panel Tryouts at Webb MS Must be there by 7:15 AM *Please note: ALL practices are closed. This includes clinic, mock tryouts, camp, and school practices.

9 Panel Tryout The Garland Independent School District will hold a centralized tryout for the selection of the cheerleading squads. This tryout will be held on Saturday April 9. All twelve middle schools with cheerleading squads will participate in the tryout process. The tryout will be held at a north side and south side middle school location. Panel tryouts will be closed to everyone except judges, principals, principals' designees, and cheerleader sponsors. There will be no students, parents, or existing cheerleaders in the tryout room/area, nor will they be involved in the collection or tabulation of scores. Any deviation by the candidates from the tryout requirements may result in the disqualification of the candidate. Sellers scheduled tryout will be held at Webb Middle School. All tryouts are on Saturday, March 24, Sellers candidates will warm up in the cafeteria from 7:30-8:00 AM. Sellers scheduled tryout will begin at 8:00 AM and end at 9:15 AM. Plan to be at Webb Middle School no later than 7:15 AM. Candidates will enter the building together. If you arrive late, you will not be granted entry into the building. NO CELL PHONES OR FOOD ALLOWED! 8th grade candidates will be in one gym 7th grade candidates in the other gym. ALL CANDIDATES MUST REMAIN IN THE LOCKER ROOM UNTIL AN ADULT DISMISSES THE GROUP. This is a closed tryout. Only candidates will be allowed in the building. Parents will not be allowed in the building during any phase of the tryouts. Tryout Attire Plain white polo-style shirt with no visible logo must be tucked in Solid black shorts (elastic waist/cotton) Solid White socks Solid White athletic shoes Hair needs to be in a secure ponytail---no ribbons or bows may be worn No jewelry may be worn No fingernail polish or artificial nails Tryout number should be attached neatly to the front of shirt do not switch numbers! o Numbers will be given to you by sponsor Results: Once all the candidates have tried out and the judges have the opportunity to tabulate and verify their scores, everyone will be dismissed and given an envelope from the sponsor that contains specific instructions and a website address where the official tryout results can be found. No results will be distributed at the tryout site.

10 Middle School Cheerleader Tryout Sequence of Events ANY DEVIATION FROM THE TRYOUT PROCEDURE/REQUIREMENTS MAY RESULT IN THE DISQUALIFICATION OF THE CANDIDATE. Full Group Performance: All candidates should walk in and perform chant, dance, cheer as a group in that order. It should be explained that this is only so the judges can see what the material should look like and that they will not be judged at that time. Full-out jumps and tumbling is not necessary but certainly welcome during this demonstration. Judges should put their pencils down during this time. Group Chant: Groups should consist of 2 or 3 candidates. They should enter the gym so that that they end up standing in numeric order from left to right. (From the judge s viewpoint) There should be no tumbling or spirit during this time, only uniform walking. Once the nod has been given, the designated candidate should call for the group cheer to begin. Upon completion, the candidates should wait for the judges to finish scoring. Group Dance: Once the nod has been given, the designated candidate should call for the dance to begin, or the school representative should start the music for the dance. Once this has been completed, the candidates should remain in their spots until they are told to leave. This will enable the judges to correspond the scores with the candidate numbers. The group categories mentioned above should be repeated until all groups have been performed. Individual Entrance: Candidate number #1 should enter the gym and wait for notification from the judges that they are ready. After the judges have nodded, the candidate should run in showing and soliciting spirit and enthusiasm doing whatever tumbling pass they wish if they are able. Once they are done with their entrance, they should stop in the center of the gym and wait for notification that the judges are ready for the next step. At this point, the judges will score the tumbling, spirit/enthusiasm, and the candidate s presence/poise. Presence/poise will include appearance with regard to the hair being out of the face, shirts tucked in if possible, shorts not being too short, proper shoes, facial expressions, etc. Individual Jumps: Once the nod has been given, the candidate should do whatever jump they wish to do first and then wait for a nod before doing their second jump and then their third jumps, giving the judge s time to score each jump. Each high school candidate must perform a toe touch, a right hurdler, a left hurdler, and a double toe touch. Each middle school candidate must perform a toe touch, left OR right hurdler, and a jump of their choice. The jump of their choice can include, but is not limited to, a jump that they have already performed. Tumbling stunts will not count as jumps. Individual Cheer Once the jumps have been completed and the nod has been given, the candidate should begin their cheer. The cheer will have a section(s) incorporating a jump(s) and/or tumbling. Candidates will be scored based on difficulty and execution as well. Candidates will also be judged on their smile, motion technique and voice projection during this time. Once the candidate has completed their cheer, they should exit the gym. No score will be given for an exit tumbling pass or spirit. As candidate #1 is walking out, candidate #2 should walk in and wait for the judge s nod. These steps should be repeated until all candidates have performed all categories mentioned to this point.

11 Tabulation of Scores An administrator will be present at the tryouts. Scores will be tabulated by a person not connected to the tryout using a computer generated formula that will be used district-wide. There are 100 points available from each judge. Each judge will enter his/her scores into a scoring spreadsheet. Those scores will automatically transfer to a master spreadsheet. The tabulation spreadsheet will automatically throw out the scores of the lowest and highest scoring judges. Results will be based on the average of the remaining three scores. Each candidate must score a minimum percentage in order to be placed on the cheerleading squad. o Minimum Score for 7th grade is 30% o Minimum Score for 8th grade is 35% The top 10 scoring candidates with a minimum score from each grade level will be selected to the squads. Professional judges with outstanding credential and references will be hired for all tryouts. They will be instructed to judge the candidates based only on the mastery of the skills that they see demonstrated during the tryouts. Tryout results will not be challenged because of prior knowledge of judges and candidates. Every attempt is made to hire judges that have not worked with students in the Garland area. However, with the hundreds of camps in the state of Texas, attended by thousands of cheerleaders and taught by hundreds of instructors, it may be possible at some time that a member of the judging panel may have had some contact with a candidate who is trying out. Requests for Scores: Requests for scores will be honored as outlined in the cheerleading constitution. Those candidates wishing to receive their scores quickly should provide a stamped, self-addressed envelope to the sponsor PRIOR to the start of tryouts. Individual score sheets will be mailed no later than Monday. Other requests for scores can be made through the school principal. Announcement of Squads: Once the tryout process is complete the scores will be tabulated. After the tryout is complete, each candidate will be given an envelope containing a website address. The website will list those who made the cheerleading by their tryout number in numerical order.

12 Financial Responsibility It is the responsibility of each cheerleader to meet all financial obligations. Every effort is made to make all expenses minimal. Failure to meet the stated financial obligations will result in a principal review which may lead to removal from the squad. Estimated Costs for SMS Cheer The estimated cost of cheerleading for the school year is $400-$600. The stated cost includes all fees for uniforms, accessories, camp clothes, and camp instruction. The total uniform balance will be due on at the beginning of the uniform fitting, in which the date will be mid to late April. This payment will be made directly to our vender by cashier s check, money order, or credit card (exact price to be discussed when available). The cheerleader and a parent or parent representative must be present for the uniform fitting. This total includes everything from bow to toe that is needed for the year, plus two camp outfits. A fee for summer camp will be due to Coach Elliott on Wednesday, May 30, The approximate cost is between $150-$200. Details will be available after tryouts in regards for the opportunity for fundraising to assist in camp costs. ALL CAMP DEPOSITS/FEES MUST BE MADE BY CASH OR MONEY ORDER. You are welcome to pay the entire camp balance prior to the above date if you prefer. No personal checks will be accepted. Cashier s checks or credit cards are accepted from our vendor for the uniform/camp clothing costs. Required items that are not part of the above mentioned costs: All candidates who make the squad will need to purchase a solid black, racer back sports bra on their own that they must wear to the uniform fitting. o Sponsors will approve that the sports bra does not show while wearing the uniform Camp lunches Game day dinners Extra bows if needed Team pictures Other cheer wear if decided as a squad to order

13 Important Dates Wednesday, March 7 Parent Meeting in cafeteria 6:00 pm BEFORE March 19 at 4:00 Paperwork and $10 clinic fee due RM 7 (Coach Elliott) Monday, March 19 Clinic in Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 pm Tuesday, March 20 Clinic in Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 pm Wednesday, March 21 Clinic in Practice Gym 4:00-6:00 pm Thursday, March 22 Mock Tryouts Competition Gym 4:00-6:00 pm Saturday, March 24 Panel Tryouts at Webb MS 7:15-9:15 am The below practice and meeting dates are for those who make the squad and are subject to change. Tuesday, April 4 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Tuesday, April 11 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday, April 12 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm MANDATORY Parent and Cheerleader meeting following practice to discuss uniform fitting (Date to be announced) Uniform Fitting RM 7 (Coach Elliott) Parent or parent representative must be present at fitting to sign off on sizes/options *Full uniform balance due at the time of the fitting Tuesday, April 24 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Tuesday, May 1 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday, May 2 Practice Gym 4:00-5:00 pm *NO Cheer activities the week of May 7-11 due to STAAR testing Tuesday, May 15 Practice PE Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday, May 16 Practice PE Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Tuesday, May 22 Practice PE Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday, May 23 Practice PE Gym 4:00-5:00 pm Wednesday, May 30 CAMP FEE DUE COACH ELLIOTT RM 7 Summer camp dates to be decided once squad is finalized Football Season runs September-November. We will have at least one practice and one game to attend each week. Basketball Season runs November-February. We will have at least one practice and one game to attend each week.

14 Cheerleader Tryout Application Due Date: All paperwork is due before 4:00 pm March 19, *If you have it completed before this date, feel free to bring it to Coach Elliott in Room 7. Please do not turn this packet in until ALL components are completed. No late applications will be accepted under any circumstances. Name: Student ID #: Current Grade Level: 6th or 7th Home Address: Parent/Guardian: Contact number: address : Parent/Guardian: Contact number: address : I also plan to participate in: (mark all that apply) BAND CHOIR ENCORE ATHLETICS GYMNASTICS NJHS COMPETETIVE CHEER OTHER Please explain I have read and understand the tryout regulations, GISD Cheer Constitution, as well as the expectations for elected cheerleader, and I will abide by them. I also understand that a violation of any of these regulations will disqualify me from the tryout process. As a parent of a possible Cheerleader, I have read and understand the expectations and regulations for cheerleaders. I also understand that a violation of the tryout process could disqualify my child. Parent/Guardian Signature date Student Signature date If you have any questions please contact: Heather Elliott- haelliot@garlandisd.net (972)

15 Name ID# Grade Candidate Release Form-Parent/Guardian My child,, has my permission to be a Cheerleader at Sellers Middle School. (Please initial in spaces provided) I understand that he/she must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the sponsors and principal of Sellers Middle School and be present for all practices and games. It is my responsibility to have my child at all functions on time! In case of an emergency, I give permission for my child to ride with another parent when necessary. I have read the rules and regulations and understand that the violation of any of these rules may lead to a temporary or permanent suspension from the squad. I understand that qualified judges will evaluate my daughter/son and we agree to abide by the decision of the judges. I understand that if I have any concerns about the decisions made by the sponsor, I will contact that sponsor first. Only after contacting the sponsor, may I contact the Principal, Dr. Mahagan. I understand the costs involved and my responsibility to meet all financial obligations by the deadlines set by SMS. I understand that by the very nature of the activity, cheerleading and gymnastics carry a risk of injury. Cheerleading activities require learned skills and behaviors. These will be taught, practiced, and documented as each participant achieves mastery prior to the performance of each skill. It should be made clear that even though mastery of objectives and skills has been reached, and safety precautions enforced, accidents still may occur. No matter how careful the participants and coach are, how many spotters are used, or what landing surface is used, the risk cannot be eliminated. The risk of injury includes minor injuries such as muscle pulls, dislocation and broken bones. The risk also includes catastrophic injuries such as permanent paralysis or even death from landing or falls on the back, neck, or head. I understand these risks and do hereby release Garland Independent School District and its employees from any liability due to accident, injury or illness should it occur. I agree to support my child's efforts wholeheartedly throughout the season. As a Cheerleader, your child is covered at school-sponsored events by the school insurance, providing that the proper GISD channels are followed. However, you are encouraged to have your own insurance or take the additional school insurance. Upon being selected as a Cheerleader your child must present evidence of a current medical, physical examination. I confirm that my child has chosen Sellers Middle School for the school year on their choice of school form. I understand that the demerit point system will be followed with consistency. I understand that all final decisions regarding uniform, practices, and consequences are up to the sponsors and principal. I have read the attached information packet and cheerleading constitution and rules. I also understand that every member of the cheerleading squad will be expected to follow these rules and regulations, and I agree to abide by these regulations. I understand I will not be allowed in the building on the day of tryouts. I understand that it is my responsibility to provide transportation to and from cheerleader practices and events unless a bus is provided under the GISD guidelines for my child. I understand that it is my responsibility to meet all financial obligations by the deadlines set forth Sellers Middle School. Furthermore, I understand that being a cheerleader involves inherent risks, which could cause serious or catastrophic injuries or even death. I have also read and understand the GISD insurance disclaimer. I understand that if I have any questions or concerns regarding cheerleading, I should contact the appropriate sponsor first. I understand and agree to abide by the GISD cheerleader constitution. Furthermore, I give my consent for the above named student to represent Sellers as a cheerleader and participate in extra-curricular activities with knowledge of the responsibilities, conduct expectations and risks involved with being a SMS cheerleader. / / / / parent/guardian date parent/guardian date

16 Name ID # Grade Candidate Agreement (Please initial in spaces provided) I understand that I must abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the sponsor and principal of Seller Middle School and be present for all practices and games. It is my responsibility to be at all functions on time! I have read the rules and regulations within this packet and the Garland ISD cheer constitution and understand that violation of any of these rules may lead to a temporary or permanent suspension from the squad. I understand the risks inherent to this sport. I promise to abide by the rules and regulations set forth by the sponsors and principal of Sellers MS. I promise to cooperate and follow the instructions of the cheerleading sponsors and head cheerleaders at all times. I understand that the demerit point system will be followed with consistency. I understand that all final decisions regarding uniform, practices, and consequences are up to the sponsors and principal. I understand that cheerleaders and spirit groups exist to promote good sportsmanship, good citizenship, wholesome and enthusiastic school spirit, and cooperation both within the schools and among schools. Members of these groups have a fundamental responsibility to play a leadership role in helping the school to achieve the worthwhile objectives of the school s activities. I understand that I am to behave in a manner that is becoming to me as an individual, as well as to the organization I represent. I should be aware that in or out of uniform I am a representative of the cheerleading squad, Sellers Middle School, and I agree to act accordingly. I will: Be a leader and set an example for those around me. Remember SAFETY FIRST!!! NO COACH - NO PRACTICE!!! Follow a workout program designed for the development of strength in order to: prevent injury; increase strength and coordination, endurance, flexibility and confidence. Keep track of my academic progress (know when I need to get help or attend tutorials). I know that if I am not passing my classes, I am placing an undue burden on the rest of my squad. Attend and be on time to all practices and games. Promote school spirit. Remember that I am a member of a TEAM and there is no "I" in team. Give respect to ALL adults. HAVE FUN!!! I,, am trying out for the position of cheerleader. I am aware of the time involved in being a SMS cheerleader. I am prepared to give 100% and have a positive attitude throughout the year. I understand that my obligations as a cheerleader do not begin and end with football season, but begin with cheerleader tryouts and continue throughout the entire school year. Furthermore, I understand that it is my responsibility to provide my own transportation to and from cheerleader practices and events unless a bus is provided under the GISD guidelines. I understand that as a cheerleader I am expected to behave in a manner that is becoming to me, as well as, to my squad. I also realize that grades are very important and that it is my responsibility to remain eligible. It wastes time, money, and energy when I am unable to perform. I have read and understand the attached information packet and GISD cheerleading constitution and rules. Furthermore, I have read the Cheerleader s Code of Conduct and understand my responsibility as a Sellers Cheerleader. I agree to follow and abide by all of these rules and regulations. / / Participant's signature Date