Mary McLeod Bethune once said, “We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward good ends.” One of the goals of Guilford County Schools (GCS) is to do just that and educate the whole child. As such, GCS has launched the “Fair Play” campaign, because in GCS, we play by the rules.

All student-athletes and their parents and coaches must sign honor codes before participating in any athletic contest. In the honor codes, student-athletes, parents and coaches pledge to abide by the North Carolina High School Athletic Association’s (NCHSAA’s) eligibility requirements.

“It is critical that only eligible students participate in high school and middle school sports,” said Leigh Hebbard, the GCS athletic director. “This is a perfect opportunity for us to teach our children through example to be more than athletes. It’s another level of character education for them.”

The campaign comes on the heels of 12 eligibility violations in 10 sports at Northern High. “Students need to learn that demonstrating good character and sportsmanship are just as important as winning, if not more so,” said Superintendent Maurice “Mo” Green.

In addition, GCS has set up an e-mail address and direct phone line to report suspected athletic-eligibility violations. To report suspected athletic-eligibility violations, e-mail fairplay@gcsnc.com or call (336) 574-2994. All phone calls and e-mails will remain confidential.