Sportsmanship Statement

“Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” Philippians 1:27

Bethany Lutheran College, the Upper Midwest Athletics Conference and the NCAA endorses ethical behavior and good sportsmanship by all student-athletes, coaches and guests, before, during, and following an intercollegiate contest. Bethany Lutheran College values your positive, constructive and courteous support for both athletes and officials. Cheers and comments should encourage and not be degrading to opponents, fans, officials or any single individual.

Profanity, racial, ethnic, sexual comments, or other threatening actions directed at officials, student-athletes, coaches, or team representatives will not be tolerated and are justification for instant removal from the competitive site. The consumption or possession of alcoholic beverages and other drugs is expressly prohibited.

Philosophy on Intercollegiate Athletics

Bethany Lutheran College considers intercollegiate athletics to be an integral part of the college experience and seeks to provide positive and enriching programs that balance and reinforce the educational pursuits, academic success, and overall athletic excellence of student-athletes. The institution embraces the concept that the student-athlete is first and foremost a student, while at the same time realizing the dividends gained through athletic competition. Integrity, sense of community, teamwork, sportsmanship, self-respect, self-confidence, leadership, physical well being, and loyalty all enrich the lives of each student who participates in intercollegiate athletics. Therefore, the college is committed to the development and maintenance of an outstanding athletics program.

Successful intercollegiate athletic teams are a source of pride among students, alumni, faculty, staff, and others. Such pride has a tremendous effect upon the college including the areas of alumni giving, public relations, and student enrollment. Furthermore, it is evident that a strong intercollegiate athletics program is part of a well-rounded institution dedicated to the service of a broad range of students. The Bethany Lutheran College Athletics Department shares the responsibility with others on campus to contribute positively to the physical, spiritual, social, and educational welfare of each student-athlete.

Bethany Lutheran College is committed to upholding and practicing the established NCAA, NCCAA, and affiliated conference policies and standards governing intercollegiate athletics. Institutional control is maintained through the development and review of athletics policies by the College President, Vice President of Student Affairs, and the Director of Athletics.

Athletic Department Philosophy Statement

The Athletic Department of Bethany Lutheran College promotes individual growth and development in the spiritual, emotional, social and physical realms, based on the Christian principles set forth in the mission statement of the college. The department is dedicated to high academic standards, supporting ethnic and gender diversity, and providing equitable athletic opportunities for men and women. A challenging, Christian approach to competition, teamwork, fair play, ethics and life-long learning encompass the main focus of Bethany Lutheran College Athletics.