Policies

What it hyperventilating & extended breath holding:

Hyperventilation is a series of deep breaths followed by forced exhalation prior to breath-holding. This is done in an attempt to remain underwater for a longer period of time. This works because it decreases the level of CO2 in the blood. CO2 is responsible for triggering the need to breathe. With less CO2 a swimmer will not feel a need to take a breath as quickly and can remain under water longer. This, however, does not mean that the swimmer does not need oxygen. Oxygen levels are being depleted. In fact, oxygen levels can be depleted more quickly if the swimmer is moving or swimming rather than remaining stationary. If oxygen levels in the blood drop sufficiently before CO2 levels trigger the need to breathe, the swimmer will become unconscious. This is also commonly referred to as shallow water blackout. Obviously, an unconscious swimmer will breathe water into their lungs and will die if not rescued and resuscitated.

What National Governing Agencies say about hyperventilation & breathe holding:

The American Red Cross:

“Refers to hyperventilation in its Swimming and Water Safety text as “potentially dangerous” and “risky” The American Red Cross’s Lifeguarding text also refers to how hyperventilation can result in a passive drowning victim and that patrons should be directed not to engage in prolonged breath-holding (greater than 30 seconds).”

The American Red Cross Safety Training for Swim Coaches:

“A dangerous practice that may result in drowning.”

The medical advisory committee of the YMCA of the USA:

“YMCAs should prohibit extended underwater breath-holding.”

The Department of Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) of the U.S. Navy:

“This practice of hyperventilating and extended breath holding is prohibited at MWR aquatic facilities.”

WARNING: THERE IS NO SHALLOW WATER IN THESE POOLS! Non-swimmers should use the instructional, outdoor, or lap pools, depending on availability.

1. It is recommended that all users shower before entering the pool.
2. Rules are for patron safety. Any conduct determined by the Aquatics Staff to jeopardize the health and safety of pool users is prohibited. The Texas A&M Aquatics Staff has full authority to ask participants to leave the pool area for not following policies outline for the area.
3. NO BREATH HOLDING ACTIVITIES ALLOWED.
4. Diving is allowed in the dive well only. See the diving rules for additional information.
   1. Head first entry from the deck is allowed in the 50 meter pool and dive well.
   2. Patrons are not allowed to use starting blocks unless under supervision of a trained instructor or coach.
5. RUNNING, CLIMBING ON RAILS, HORSEPLAY, AND OR HANGING ON LANE LINES IS PROHIBITED.
6. Handrails are for exiting or entering the pool ONLY.
7. People with open wounds or infectious diseases are NOT permitted in the pool.
8. All children 17 years or younger MUST be accompanied and supervised by an adult at all times.
   1. Children who cannot swim must be supervised by the parent/guardian in the pool within arm’s reach. This policy applies regardless of whether or not the child wears an approved floatation device. Proper use of floatation devices are allowed, but not as substitute for direct supervision.
   2. Children who wear diapers must wear swim diapers or a plastic diaper cover.
      1. Changing and disposing of diapers is strictly prohibited around the pool areas. Diaper changes are restricted to the changing stations in the locker rooms.
   3. Flotation devices must be approved by the US Coast Guard. No other flotation devices are allowed.
9. Proper swimming attire with liners must be worn at all times. Aquatic staff may ask a patron to change if the attire is deemed dangerous or inappropriate.
10. Training equipment must be used in the manner for which it was intended and is for use in the lap lanes only.
11. Lap lanes are for lap swimming, recognized water exercise, or swim instruction when designated as lap swim. Patrons may be asked to share a lane and should try to swim with others of approximately the same ability.
12. NO glass containers or food allowed. All beverages must be in a re-sealable container.
13. Gum or adhesive bandages are not allowed in the pools.

1. It is recommended that all users shower before entering the spa.
2. Rules are for patron safety. Any conduct determined by the Aquatics Staff to jeopardize the health and safety of pool users is prohibited. The Texas A&M Aquatics Staff has full authority to ask participants to leave the pool area for not following the policies outlined for the area.
3. NO BREATH HOLDING ACTIVITIES ALLOWED.
4. NO EXERCISING in the spas.
5. Diving is strictly prohibited in any area of this spa
6. RUNNING, CLIMBING ON RAILS, AND OR HORSEPLAY IS PROHIBITED.
7. Handrails are for exiting or entering the pool ONLY.
8. If you are pregnant, you should not enter the spa without prior medical consultation first and permission from your doctor.
9. If you suffer from heart disease, diabetes, high or low blood pressure or other health-related problems, you should not enter the spa without prior medical consultation and permission from your doctor. Over exposure to hot water may cause nausea, dizziness, and fainting.
10. DO NOT use spa while under the influence of alcohol, narcotics, or other drugs that cause drowsiness or raise/lower blood pressure.
11. People with open wounds or infectious diseases are NOT permitted in the spa.
12. Children UNDER 17 years of age are NOT ALLOWED to use the spa.
13. Proper swimming attire with liners must be worn at all times. Aquatic staff may ask a patron to change if the attire is deemed dangerous or inappropriate.
14. NO glass containers or food allowed. All beverages must be in a re-sealable container.
15. Gum or adhesive bandages are not allowed in the spas.

In the event of inclement weather (severe storm, pouring rain, and/or lightning) in the area, the Cain Outdoor Pool will close in order to ensure the safety of all patrons and staff. The pool will re-open for activity once the inclement weather has passed.

In case of lightning in the area:
The Student Recreation Center has a lightning detection system that will sound an alert when lightning is in the area. When lightning is detected, one long horn blast will sound indicating that all patrons and staff should exit the water and seek shelter. When lightning is no longer in the area, three short horn blasts will sound indicating an “all-clear” status and activities may resume.

In case of a severe storm or pouring rain:
Severe storms and pouring rain decrease the visibility of the bottom of the pool. For the safety of all patrons, the Cain Outdoor Pool will close when the lifeguards can no longer see the bottom of the pool. The pool will re-open for activity when the storm has passed and the bottom of the pool is visible.

Registration opens 7 days before each class on Recconnect (linked below) and closes 1 minute before class begins. Check-in for all classes opens 15 minutes before the class starts.

Registration

• Visit https://recconnect.tamu.edu/and click on the “Fitness & Wellness” Icon to see the schedule of classes each day
  • You can also see this by downloading the TAMU Rec Sports App in the Apple and Google Play store
  • You can visit https://recsports.tamu.edu/programs/fitness-wellness/ for a full weekly view of the schedule as well.
• Click on a class to register
• Your TAMU NetID credentials are used to log on
• Follow the instructions on Recconnect, including the cancellation policy and other terms you accept during check out. Follow all the steps to complete the registration process.
• You will be emailed a confirmation when you complete the process.

  • This email confirmation will confirm your registration and a second email will be sent containing the link for access to all virtual group fitness classes.

  • If you did not receive an e-mail, you likely did not complete the process.
• All virtual classes will be streamed live on Zoom
• You can also check your status in the class online by visiting https://recconnect.tamu.edu/ – Click on your name in top right corner-select “profile”- on left hand side, select “registrations”- Here you will find a list of all of the classes you have ever registered for and your status in each one
  • For all virtual classes live on Zoom, you will also see a small camera icon. You can also access your virtual class by clicking on that icon 10 minutes before the class start time.

• For In Person Classes – Participants must check into the class with the instructor by the start time, or they will lose their spot. Doors will be locked at the start of class.

Should you be unable to attend, you can cancel your class up to 15 minutes before the class start time by doing the following:

• Log into Recconnect.
• Click on your name in the top right corner and select “profile.”
• On the left-hand side, select “Registrations” and find the class you wish to cancel.
• Select “Cancel” under the drop-down menu on the far right.

1. Privates ​sessions ​that ​are ​not ​rescheduled ​or ​cancelled ​24 ​hours ​in ​advance ​will ​result ​in ​forfeiture ​of ​the ​session.
2. If ​the ​client ​arrives ​more ​than ​15 ​minutes ​late ​for ​the ​scheduled ​session, ​forfeiture ​of ​the ​session ​will ​result, ​and ​the ​instructor ​has ​the ​right ​to ​leave.
3. Sessions ​are ​45 ​minutes ​in ​length, ​and ​the ​session ​begins ​at ​the ​scheduled ​meeting ​time.
4. All ​Pilates ​Reformer ​sessions ​must ​be ​held ​in ​the ​Student ​Recreation ​Center ​Pilates ​Reformer ​Studio, ​room ​304.
5. The ​expiration ​policy ​requires ​completion ​of ​all ​sessions ​within ​the ​number ​of ​weeks ​equivalent ​to ​the ​number ​of ​sessions ​purchased. ​Private ​training ​sessions ​are ​void ​after ​this ​time ​period.
6. Refunds ​will ​be ​given ​if ​submitted ​within ​five ​business ​days ​of ​purchase ​with ​receipt ​only.

1. Those ​interested ​will ​complete the ​interest ​for ​linked ​to ​our ​website.
2. Once ​the ​form ​is ​submitted ​the ​Fitness ​and ​Wellness ​team ​will ​pair ​the ​client ​with ​an ​instructor ​and ​reach ​out ​to ​confirm ​via ​email ​within ​2 ​business ​days.
3. Once ​confirmed, ​the ​instructor ​will ​setup ​their ​first ​session ​with ​the ​client.
4. The ​client ​must ​pay ​for ​their ​package ​before ​their ​first ​session
   1. Currently ​clients ​are ​required ​to ​pay ​in ​person ​or ​by ​phone
5. Once ​they ​complete ​their ​package, ​they ​can ​renew ​it

Exception: ​No ​refunds ​will ​be ​issued ​once ​the ​first ​session ​with ​your ​trainer ​has ​been ​scheduled.

1. Every patron climbing at the Indoor Climbing Facility (ICF) must fill out the climbing waiver.
2. Every patron entering the ICF must check in with the Outdoor Adventures ICF Staff at the ICF Resource Desk.
3. Climbers must successfully pass a Skills Check before belaying independently at the ICF.
4. Climbers must be at least 16 years of age to participate in a Skills Check. Climbers under the age of 16 can be approved to participate in a Skills Check at the discretion of Outdoor Adventures Professional Staff.
5. All climbing equipment must be used in accordance with manufacturers’ instructions. All personal climbing gear must be approved by the UIAA or CE for climbing and is subject to inspection by Outdoor Adventures ICF Staff before use.
6. Please remove all rings and dangling jewelry before climbing.
7. Climbers must wear closed-toed shoes when climbing at the ICF.
8. Climbers must always be tied-in/clipped-in and on belay, except when bouldering at the ICF.
9. Do not climb past top-rope anchors.
10. Climbers are required to use the protective gear, quickdraws and belay anchors, and ropes provided to them by Outdoor Adventures Staff. Lead belayers must use a GriGri or other approved assisted braking device.
11. Horseplay and roughhousing are prohibited at the ICF.
12. Please refrain from eating or drinking from open containers. Re-sealable drink bottles are allowed.
13. Outdoor Adventures ICF Staff will clip climbers into autobelay units and unclip climbers from autobelay units.
14. Report blood or bodily fluid spills immediately to the Outdoor Adventures ICF staff.
15. Outdoor Adventures ICF Staff and KINE Staff are approved to instruct at the ICF. Please refrain from providing instruction to other climbers at the ICF.
16. Climbing is about building community and the challenge. Create an encouraging and positive space for climbers.
17. Please respect and adhere to barriers and signage put up by the Route Setting Staff. Route Setting Staff reserve the right to make requests that ensure a safe work and climbing area at the ICF.
18. The ICF is to be used only during open operating Hours may vary due to reservations or special groups. For questions regarding business hours, please contact Outdoor Adventures at (979) 845-4511.
19. Climbing is inherently dangerous. Please climb at your own risk.

NOTICE: Outdoor Adventure ICF Staff reserve the right to remove and suspend climbing privileges for violation of any of the listed rules and regulations.

1. Every patron climbing at a bouldering facility must fill out a climbing waiver and view the bouldering safety video. Bouldering wristbands will be obtained once these two are completed. Bouldering wristbands can be obtained at the Outdoor Adventures ICF Resource Desk and Equipment Etc. Desk. The Southside Recreation Facility will provide wristbands at their Equipment Desk.
2. Bouldering wristbands must be worn or readily available when climbing at any bouldering facility.
3. Climbers younger than 18 years of age must be accompanied and supervised by a parent/guardian or a Climbing Facility Staff member.
4. Closed-toed shoes must be worn when climbing at our bouldering facilities.
5. Please remove all rings and dangling jewelry before climbing.
6. Stay clear of other climbers and look for their potential fall zones; be aware of your surroundings.
7. Consider down climbing when reaching the top instead of dropping off.
8. Climbing ends on a designated final hold or the horizontal rail at the top. Climbing or standing above the bouldering structure is prohibited.
9. No roughhousing or wrestling on the pads. If you’re not climbing, stand clear of the pads.
10. Share the wall, take turns and be mindful of everyone’s climbing experience.
11. When needed ask for, and be willing to provide, a spot.
12. Please respect and adhere to barriers and signage put up by the Route Setting Staff. Route Setting Staff reserve the right to make requests that ensure a safe work and climbing area at any bouldering facility.
13. Climbing is inherently dangerous. Boulder at your own risk.

NOTICE: Outdoor Adventure Staff/ Rec Sports Staff reserve the right to remove and suspend climbing privileges for violation of any of the listed rules and regulations.

Essential Eligibility Criteria (EEC’s) for Outdoor Adventures (OA) Trips:

The following lists are the physical and mental eligibility criteria for all participants on any Outdoor Adventures Trip. All outdoor trips bring with them a certain amount of inherent risk. To some extent, this risk is what makes these trips exciting and desirable. Novel situations, new activities and unknown terrain can be fun and bring a sense of adventure; but one should always be respectful of the physical, mental and emotional demands of any outdoor trip. That being said, our goal is to minimize the risk to our participants by making sure everyone knows what the trip entails and what to be prepared for. We have experience accommodating people with a wide range of disabilities and/or health conditions. However, individuals who are overweight, lack conditioning, or have other physical or mental limitations or ailments that interfere with the realistic encounters in the backcountry can endanger themselves, other participants, and the trip leaders. Please consult your medical professionals if you have medical or health conditions that could impact your ability to participate in this activity.

EEC’s for all OA trips:

• Ability to follow both verbal and non-verbal instructions given by trip leaders in all situations, including during stressful or dangerous situations, and to effectively communicate with trip staff and other participants in person or through an interpreter.
• Ability to manage all personal care independently, or with the assistance of an assistant provided by the participant away from modern bathrooms and running water.
• If taking prescription medications, have the ability to maintain proper dosage by medicating independently, or with the assistance of a non-staff assistant.
• Ability to remain adequately fed, hydrated, and properly dressed so as to avoid environmental injuries such as hypothermia, heat related illness, sunburn and frostbite.
• Ability to travel during periods of inclement weather including rain, heat and cold.
• Ability to work cooperatively as a member of a group and support a team approach, despite potentially challenging circumstances. This may require flexibility and the ability to compromise on an interpersonal or group level and to do so with people who do not come from the same cultural, national or religious background as yourself.
• Ability to manage any known medical conditions in a remote environment for as long as two times the scheduled length of the trip.
• Ability to ride in a 15 passenger van for up to 2.5 hours without a break for a total of 12 hours per day. These rides will sometimes last multiple days and will be done in close proximity to 14 other people.
• Ability to be free of technology use for undetermined amounts of time when out of cell phone range or coverage.
• Ability to abide by all LNT principles presented by trip leaders.
• Ability to without incident encounter wildlife including raccoons, rodents, snakes, insects and birds, etc.
• Ability to refrain from alcohol, drug and tobacco use while on trips.
• If a handgun license holder, ability to abide by all laws associated with carrying your firearm.
• Ability to abide by all Texas A&M student rules.

EEC’s for all OA trips involving camping:

1. 1. Ability to learn and with guidance, safely perform the fundamental camping skills of finding a campsite, setting up a shelter, and cooking with a camp stove.
2. Ability to travel about the campsite in order to participate in instructional sessions, attend to toileting needs, and contribute to individual and group related tasks as necessary.
3. Ability to sleep in a tent with one or more tent partners.
4. Ability to sleep in a sleeping bag on a sleeping pad on the ground.
5. Ability to wake up and respond to wake up requests by trip leaders in order to keep the group schedule.

EEC’s for OA Backpacking Trips (in addition to EEC’s for all OA trips):

1. Ability to travel ten or more miles per day in a backcountry environment for multiple days in a row.
2. Ability to independently navigate rough terrain, including safely maneuvering around and across boulders, rocks, steps, mud and slippery and uneven surfaces, under low branches, and around vegetation. This includes the ability to maintain your balance near precipitous ledges or cliffs.
3. Ability to walk and maintain your balance on backcountry hiking trails, including trails with rocks, roots and low branches. The trails may be dirty, wet, dusty, steep, or flat and present numerous reinforced steps, loose rocks, foliage and animal excrement. They range in width from 2 to 5 feet and may feature overhanging vegetation, narrow passages and exposed overlooks.
4. Ability to independently, or with the help of an assistant, carry your own backpack with a minimum of 2 liters of water, rain gear, insulating layers, extra clothes, personal items, sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent and cooking gear and food (approx. 60 lbs).
5. Ability to carry the minimum pack weight for at least one day beyond the intended duration of the activity.

EEC’s for OA Water Based Trips including Sea Kayaking, Surfing, Canoeing and Kayaking Trips (in addition to EEC’s for all OA trips):

1.  Ability to fit into/wear and use all safety gear, as instructed by trip leaders, including Coast Guard approved Personal Flotation Devices (PFD), helmets, whistles, etc.
2. Ability to sit in a boat on moving water and attend to and follow instructions from Trip Leaders.
3. Ability to fit into and operate within the size ranges of various watercraft.
4. 4. Ability to control a paddle and pull it through the water in order to steer and propel the boat.
5. Ability to hold breath under water while wearing a properly fitted PFD and to be able to independently turn from a face down to a face up position in order to keep nose and mouth above the water.
6. Ability to breathe through the nose and mouth without assistance or apparatus.
7. Ability enter and exit a wet or dry watercraft, independently or with assistance.
8. Ability to assist another person in entering a wet or dry watercraft.
9. Ability to swim in moving or rough water while holding onto a rope paddle or other equipment, exit from the water on the shore or perform or assist in rescue into another boat.

EEC’s for OA Rock Climbing Trips (in addition to EEC’s for all OA trips):

1. Ability to fit into/wear and use all safety gear, as instructed by trip leaders, including UIAA approved harness, helmets, etc.
2. Ability to provide a belay to other participants as instructed by trip leaders.
3. Ability to firmly grasp rope, rock face and safety equipment.
4. Ability to navigate upwards on a rock face using legs, arms or mechanical devices as instructed by trip leaders.

The above criteria, if not met, will disqualify a person from participating in a trip with Outdoor Adventures. The criteria exist for your own safety and that of all trip participants. None of the criteria are meant to discriminate on the basis of any physical or mental disability, and are applied uniformly to all potential trip participants, irrespective of the presence or absence of any disability. OA is committed to making reasonable modifications to any trip for any persons with a disability, so long as they do not fundamentally alter the nature of the trip or cause safety concerns. If you have any questions about your potential ability to meet one or more of the criteria listed with or without reasonable accommodations, please contact Jason Kurten at (979) 862-1999 to discuss at least 2 weeks before the trip registration deadline.

Effective beginning with the Fall 2021 semester, any person with an active Rec Sports membership is eligible to purchase an Intramural Sports Unlimited Play Pass.  The Intramural Sports Unlimited Play Pass is required for participation in Intramural Sports. Day, week, and month-long guest passes are not considered Rec Sports memberships. More information regarding Rec Sports memberships can be found at https://recsports.tamu.edu/membership. If you have a Rec Sports membership, you can purchase your Play Pass at www.imleagues.com/tamu.

Contestants may only represent one team in any league (for example, Men’s Recreational, Women’s Competitive, Fraternity, etc.).  An individual may play on as many as two single-gender, two coed, and two open teams on which he/she is eligible to participate.  A participant playing on a Corps of Cadets or a Fraternity team is counted as playing on one of their two allowable single-gendered teams. 

Example – In sand volleyball, Steve could legally play on the Birds in men’s competitive and the Tigers in men’s recreational, plus the Eagles in coed competitive and the Lions in coed recreational.  Steve cannot play on both the Birds and the Wolves in men’s competitive.” 

If a sport has a regulation of six (6) or more players on the field/court, there may be a maximum of three (3) players common to the same rosters in different leagues.  If a sport has a regulation of between three (3) and five (5) players on the field/court, there may be a maximum of two (2) players common to the same rosters in different leagues.

Yes! All intramural participants must show a form of photo ID prior to each and every game. The identification must be a government issued ID. A driver’s license or student ID card are the most used and accepted forms of ID.

Some sport rules specifically outlaw jewelry for the game for safety reasons; others do not have the same limitations regarding jewelry. You should check the specific rules for your sport at imleagues.com/tamu and clicking on the Handbooks and Manuals section on the left side of the page. Note that recreational facilities are possible theft areas. Please secure your belongings in lockers or leave them at home. Intramural sports is not responsible for lost or stolen items.

Intramural games may occasionally be canceled due to inclement weather. If this happens, participants may find out the status of games via the Rain Out Information Number, (979) 845-2625, and choose option 1.

Yes! For many sports, assuming a spot is available, we will allow teams to reschedule their assigned game. Team captains are encouraged to act early if they cannot make a game. Reschedule spots are first come, first served. All reschedules must be completed by 4pm the day of the game. For Sunday contests, the reschedule must be completed by 2pm. Reschedules are not official until the Intramural Office approves them. NOTE: The time of your game is official in IMLEAGUES. Unless your schedule is changed online, the reschedule is not complete. Do not trust the word of the opposing team.

Teams are expected to show up to their assigned game times. If a team cannot make a game time, the intramural office can help you possibly reschedule your game. If a game cannot be rescheduled, teams can default or forfeit the game.

If your team doesn’t have enough players to play in your game, you can cancel your game automatically through IMLeagues.  You can also call or email the intramural office.  Doing this allows you to DEFAULT your game, meaning you will receive the loss, but you will not be charged a fee.  All defaults – no matter which of the three options you choose to utilize – must be sent to the Intramural Office by 4pm on the day of your game (2pm on Sundays).

If you do not call the office and choose to not show up to your game, your team will be charged with a forfeit. This means you will receive a loss, a reduced sportsmanship rating (impacting playoff eligibility), and each player on your team that does NOT sign in will be charged a $5 forfeit fee.* All players being charged that forfeit fee will be suspended from all Intramural activity until they have completed that payment through IMLeagues, which will lift their suspension.

*Individual players that attend their team’s game should ALWAYS check-in, regardless of whether or not the rest of their team is going to make it to the game.  All players that check in to a game will not be suspended or charged the $5 forfeit fee.

On IMLeagues, navigate to your team page, then click the blue button that says “Cancel Game” underneath the game you are trying to default.  Note that the Intramural Sports Office will have to approve the default, at which point all players on both participating teams will be notified via email.  Also, know that defaults cannot be done on the IMLeagues app, but rather only on a desktop version.

Once a team advances to playoffs, it is not certain that you will play on the same day and time as your regular season games are scheduled. A team that plays on Mondays at 7:45 may be playing a team that plays on Thursdays at 9:45. Therefore, it’s impossible to have the games at the same time for every team. Many sports have “playoff bracket selection” nights, in which you are able to choose your spot in the bracket in a predetermined order based on the regular season standings. This allows teams to more intentionally choose their playoff game times. Please be on the lookout for an email with more information regarding this process.

Throughout the regular season of a sport, team captains may add and accept players on their team at any time. All players must be on the online roster prior to the game they want to play in. At 4:00 pm on the day playoffs begin, your team’s rosters are “frozen.” Anyone planning to participate on your team for any game after that time must be added to your roster in advance.

Equipment may be provided for your event.

• There is a one-time setup/tear down fee associated with each event that varies based on the size of the event.
• Please see the Facilities Rental and Operational Rates tab on the Reservations and Events page for more information on pricing.
• Groups must utilize Rec Sports equipment and cannot bring in their own equipment.
• In special situations, equipment may be brought in by outside vendors, pending approval from Rec Sports.

Rec Sports Event Last Minute Changes Policy

• Equipment reductions made less than 48 hours prior to the event will result in the group being charged for the equipment in the agreed upon layout.
• Equipment additions made less than 48 hours prior to the event will result in the group being charged for the equipment in the agreed upon layout plus the additional equipment.

A $100 fee will be applied for any additions/reductions over 10 chairs and/or 4 tables.

After your pre-event meeting, your event coordinator will prepare an estimate for your event based on timing, equipment needs, staffing needs, etc. Please note this estimate may not reflect final costs.

*Rec Sports will invoice within 30 days of your event. Any changes that were made during the event will be reflected on the invoice.*

Alcohol is permitted at events on Rec Sports properties, with restrictions:

• Alcohol is not permitted at student events, with the exception of PhD programs.
• Please email rec-events@tamu.edu for a copy of the Alcohol Request Form.
• The Alcohol Request Form must be filled out and sent to your event coordinator NO LATER than 28 days prior to your event for alcohol to be considered.

A university police officer is required at any event that includes alcohol.

• Rec Sports will contact UPD to schedule an officer. Please note that UPD has a three-hour minimum charge for security at events.
• Charges for UPD will be reflected on the estimate and invoice. Please see the Facilities Rental and Operational Rates tab on the Reservations and Events page for more information on pricing.

There are five approved alcohol vendors for events at Rec Sports facilities.

• Starlight Bar and Event Services
• Cocktails 4 U
• Buppy’s
• Hilton
• Century Oak Catering

Rec Sports does not manage parking around the building and therefore is not responsible for purchasing parking passes or paying citations for vendors, caterers, organizers, or event attendees. Please visit Transportation Services for the most up-to-date information regarding parking at Texas A&M University.

Lot 100J is completely captured by Transportation Services on baseball game days, and other large-scale campus events.

Vendors and caterers may utilize the Rec Sports loading dock and loading driveway on the Annex of the building for a maximum of 45 minutes to load and unload. Vehicles must then move to a parking space.

The department of Recreational Sports adheres to the guidelines set forth by the University Rule for Campus Programs for Minors (24.01.06.M1) and Texas A&M University Youth Programs. Recreational Sports will not confirm an event with minors without documentation that a program has taken the proper steps outlined by University Youth Programs to be a compliant program. Proof of approval is required. It is the responsibility of the reserving party to fulfill all requirements set out by University Youth Programs.

Information and steps necessary for events with minors can be found here.

Decorations are permitted for events. Please note the restrictions below – failure to comply may result in a $250 cleaning fee and/or loss of future reservation privileges. The reserving entity is responsible for all cleanup of items brought into the facility. Rec Sports staff has final discretion on all decorations.

Prohibited items include, but are not limited to:

• Tape on walls, floors, or Rec Sports equipment.
• Glitter, paint, hay, silly string, bubbles, confetti, or similar substances.
• Candles or open flames, with the exception of Sterno burners for catering with advanced approval from the event coordinator.

Additional Guidelines

• Decorations on walls are permitted with Command Strips only, which must be fully removed at the conclusion of the event.
• Helium balloons are permitted but must remain secured. If a helium balloon becomes unsecured and floats into the ceiling, a cleaning fee will be applied.
• Balloon arches are permitted; however, balloons must not contain glitter, confetti, or similar materials.
• All decorations must stay inside your reserved space and must not be placed in public/common areas of the building.

The reserving group is responsible for any damages to Rec Sports property or equipment that occur during set-up, during the event, or in the immediate aftermath, as determined by staff inspection at the conclusion of the reservation.

The Rec Sports Event Cancellation Policy

• 15 business days prior to reservation: no charges will be applied.
• 10 business days prior to reservation: 50% space rental will be applied.
• 5 business days prior to reservation: 100% space rental will be applied.
• 2 business days prior to reservation: 100% space rental and set-up/tear down fee will be applied (staffing fees will be applied for events that were scheduled outside operational hours).
• No show: 100% charge of total event estimate

Inclement Weather

• Rec Sports will allow an event to be rescheduled based on event type, services, and current availability. If you are unable to reschedule, there will be no cancellation fee.

Exception

• If there is an emergency in which the University requires Rec Sports facilities to close prior to the event, the cancellation fee will not be issued. Rec Sports and Texas A&M University will not be liable for any other costs incurred by the group.

What happens if the event already started and we have to stop?

• Only staffing charges will be applied. There will not be a cancellation fee for space and equipment.
• Rescheduling will occur on a case-by-case basis based on event type, services, and current space availability. If rescheduling is not possible, there will be no cancellation fee.

Recognized Student Organizations

• Recognized Student Organizations will need to follow the On Campus Approval to Charge process for pre-approval and payment of invoices.
• The Event Coordinator will initiate an On Campus Approval to Charge Form after the pre-event meeting. In order to successfully submit the form, the event representative will need to provide the name and TAMU email address of a student leader that is on the organization’s signature card (Treasurer, Chief Student Leader), and name and TAMU email address of the organization’s advisor.
• The SOFC Approval to Charge form must be signed by the student leader and advisor and approved by the SOFC no later than 3 business days prior to the event date.
• More information about managing funds as a Recognized Student Organization can be found here.

Texas A&M University Departments

• The event representative for a Texas A&M University Department will be asked to provide an account number upon requesting the space online, as well as in the pre-event meeting.
• Upon the invoice being finalized, funds will be transferred via an Interdepartmental Transfer (IDT). For an IDT to be initiated, the account will need to be a 02-account. If funds are being utilized from another system part, the group will be billed as an External Group. Please see below for more information.

External Groups/Other System Parts

• External groups who have conducted business with TAMU previously will be asked to provide their existing account number.
• External groups who are hosting an event at TAMU for the first time will be prompted to fill out a Customer Information Form. Once this is completed, TAMU Accounts Receivables will assign a customer number to the group. This number will be communicated with the event coordinator and the customer.
• Upon the invoice being finalized, external groups may pay for their event via check or credit card. Instructions on completing payments are included in the final invoice email.

Rec Sports offers the option for members to reserve space via walk up reservations.

• Walk up reservations are on a first-come, first-served basis and can be requested no more than 15 minutes in advance.
• The maximum number of participants allowed during a walk-up reservation is 10.
• Walk up reservations can be made for 1 hour or 2 hours.
• Members can request a walk-up reservation at the Member Services desk and must be able to provide identification and UIN.

Walk-up Reservations are permitted in the following spaces pending availability

• Room 301
• Room 303
• Room 1130
• Room 1134
• Room 2221
• Room 2225

• Closed-toe athletic shoes are required to work out in the Strength & Conditioning Room: i.e., no Crocs, sandals, slippers, etc. Shoes must be worn at all times.
• Appropriate athletic attire must be worn to work out in the Strength & Conditioning Room: i.e., no jeans/cargo or dress khakis type shorts/pants.
  • Equipment/Attire should not cause any damage to pad upholstery or equipment.
• No backpacks, gym bags, purses, fanny packs, helmets, rackets, skateboards, long boards, etc. are allowed in the Strength & Conditioning Room.
• Individuals under 14 years of age may not enter or use the Strength & Conditioning Room or any other strength or cardio equipment located throughout the Student Recreation Center. A parent or guardian must accompany dependents from the ages of 14 to 17 and must always be in very close proximity.

• All equipment must be returned to its proper location after use.
• All equipment must be kept in its designated area where it can be used for its intended purpose.
  • i.e., Weight plates must remain in the free weight area and should not be laid on the floor.
• Dumbbells, weight plates, and other equipment cannot be thrown or dropped to the floor.
  • Exceptions will be made for Olympic lifts performed on designated platforms. Weight must be dropped from no higher than hip height.
  • Barbell exercises starting from the ground can only be done on the designated platforms with bumper plates.
• Handles must be utilized on all cable-driven equipment. Cables/bulbs should not be grabbed directly.
• Clips must be used on all bars when loaded with weight plates regardless of the total weight amount.
• Profanity, yelling, and/or excessively loud or suggestive language will not be tolerated.
• Audible or amplified music through personal devices is not allowed.
• Vaping, smoking, or tobacco use of any kind in the Strength & Conditioning room is strictly prohibited.
• Only Department of Recreational Sports Personal Trainers are allowed to train clients in the Student Recreation Center.
• Water bottles are not allowed in the Turf Area. Bottles must be kept along the outside perimeter of the turf.
• Photography and video policies should be followed according to the Rec Sports Policies (i.e. only non-commercial usage, only friends and family being recorded).
  • Taking photographs or videos must not impede the flow of traffic or interrupt the usage of equipment/space

• To register for personal training services, you must visit the Member Services Desk in the lobby of the Student Recreation Center. There, you can look through our nationally certified personal trainers’ profiles, including their weekly availability, certification organization, and self-description.
• At the time of registration, you will be required to complete and submit the following:
• Personal Training Assumption of Risk, Contract/Agreement and Registration Form
• Welcome to Rec Sports Personal Training Packet includes:
• • PAR-Q & You
  • Health History Form
  • Exercise History and Attitude Questionnaire
  • Physician’s Approval Form*

*If on the Assumption of Risk, Contract/Agreement, and Registration Form you indicate that more than one of the American College of Sports Medicine coronary artery disease risk factors pertain to you, your physician must complete the Physician’s Approval form prior to beginning your personal training sessions.

Due to the popularity of this service, there are times when participants are required to put their names on a waiting list. Our Staff works to ensure that this list remains as short as possible, adding new trainers to accommodate our expanding clientele.

• All clients must complete the following forms prior to starting their training sessions:
• • PAR-Q & You,
  • Health/Medical Questionnaire,
  • Exercise History and Attitude Questionnaire, and
  • Physician’s Approval form (when applicable).
• In the instance that neither of your top two personal trainers that you request on the registration form are available, another trainer will be assigned to work with you during your personal training sessions.
• Personal training sessions that are not rescheduled or cancelled 24 hours in advance will result in forfeiture of the session.
• If the client arrives more than 15 minutes late for the scheduled appointment, forfeiture of the session will result and the personal trainer has the right to leave the premises.
• Sessions are one hour in length, and the hour begins at the scheduled meeting time.
• It is recommended that all program participants work with their personal trainer at least 2-3 times per week. However, due to scheduling conflicts and financial considerations, a combination of supervised and unsupervised workouts is possible.
• All personal training sessions must be held in the Student Recreation Center.
• The expiration policy requires completion of all personal training sessions within the number of weeks equivalent to the number of sessions purchased. Personal training sessions are void after this time period.
• Refunds will be given if submitted within five business days of purchase with receipt only.
  Exception: No refunds will be issued once the first session with your trainer has been scheduled.

The Rec Sports EIN is 746000531.

1. Check-in process:
   • Youth Program staff will meet you at the passenger side of your vehicle to verify your camper’s name and confirm their registration on the roster. No need to leave your vehicle! Counselors are there from 7:45-8:30am. After this window, parents must come inside the Student Rec Center to the Membership Services Desk and wait until a counselor becomes available to check their child in. Parents cannot drop a camper off without first checking them in.
2. Check-out process:
   • Youth Program staff will meet you at the passenger side of your vehicle to verify your camper’s name and confirm their registration on the roster. No need to leave your vehicle! Counselors are there from 4:15-5:15pm. Before this window, counselors are not outside unless an early pick-up has been pre-arranged. Anybody picking up a camper must be on the approved pick-up list and must show their ID before a camper can be checked out.
3. Inclement weather:
   • In severe weather (thunder, lightning, heavy rain) we are not able to set-up our table outside. Parents must come inside the Student Recreation Center to check-in or check-out. Counselors will be waiting just inside the doors.
4. What to pack & wear to camp:
   • Athletic clothing (closed-toe shoes), swimsuit & towel (summer only), non-perishable lunch & two snacks, resealable water bottle, extra change of clothes
5. Allergies/Medications:
   • All allergy/medication forms should be filled out upon registration. We can only distribute medicine in its original container with the child’s name, dosage instructions and prescription details. Please be sure to disclose any food allergies before camp. We are not a nut-free camp.

Campers are expected to follow behavior guidelines that promote a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment. Please note:

• • A camper does not need to repeat the same behavior for disciplinary action to escalate
  • The discipline process may be accelerated at the discretion of the camp staff in response to serious or unsafe behavior

Examples of behavior that may result in immediate escalation of consequences include:

• • Physical assault or threats toward another camper or staff member
  • Any serious offense involving harm, attempted harm, threat of harm, sexual harassment, or intentional discriminatory behavior
  • Bullying or use of abusive, inappropriate, or offensive language
  • Possession of alcohol, tobacco (including vapes or e-cigarettes), illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia, and/or weapons
  • Intentional damage to, destruction of, or defacing personal property or camp property. Families may be held responsible for any resulting costs or repair fees.

To ensure a positive experience for all participants, campers must be able to meet the following expectations without 1:1 support:

• • Participate cooperatively and respectfully in a group setting
  • Physically move from place to place independently, which may include navigating stairs
  • Tolerate and manage the sensory stimulation of a large, active, and often loud environment
  • Follow verbal instructions from staff.
  • Understand and communicate in English at a functional level, as our programs rely on the common use of English for safety and participation
  • Manage basic personal hygiene independently which including using the restroom, washing hands, changing clothes after swimming, and applying sunscreen when needed
  • Eat only their own packed food; there is no food sharing at camp
  • Keep personal technology and electronic devices put away for the entire camp day

Our camp program cannot provide 1:1 behavioral, medical, or personal care support. If you have questions about whether this setting is a good fit for your child, we encourage you to contact us prior to registration.

Our staff is dedicated to maintaining consistent rule application, with families kept informed of any need for a child’s removal from an activity. We follow the 3-Strike Approach below:

1. First Strike

• • The child will be briefly taken aside by a counselor, informed of the inappropriate behavior and reminded of the expected conduct.

2. Second Strike

• • If the behavior persists or another issue arises, the child is temporarily removed from the activity. They will take a break nearby and reminded of camp expectations.

3. Third Strike

• • If efforts to address the situation are unsuccessful, the child will be brought to the office for a discussion. Depending on the nature of the situation and time remaining in the activity, the child may rejoin the group later, or be sent home. In cases of more serious behavioral issues, such as physical harm or intent to harm, immediate removal from the activity will be implemented. In some instances, parents or authorized contacts may be called for immediate pick-up. The program reserves the authority to terminate a child’s participation in the event of a severe act of aggression directed towards other participants, staff, or property, and/or in the case of repeated offenses.

1. Deposits
   • A non-refundable deposit is required at the time of registration to secure a camper’s spot.
2. Balance Payments
   • The remaining balance is drafted automatically two weeks prior to the start of the program session.
     • If no payment is received, the camper’s spot is forfeited and offered to the next waitlisted camper.
3. Accepted Payment Methods
   • Credit/debit cards processed through CircuiTree
   • No cash or personal checks accepted
4. Refunds
   • Deposit is non-refundable under all circumstances
   • Refunds of balances paid (beyond deposit) are available only if:
     • The family cancels at least 14 days before the program start date; OR
   • Refunds requested within 14 days of the program start date are not granted except under Camp Director-approved exceptions.
   • Refunds are issued to the original payment method in CircuiTree.