Substance Use and Conduct Policy
The CMU Cross Country Ski Team strictly prohibits the possession, use, or distribution of illicit drugs as defined under the Controlled Substances Act (21 U.S. Code § 812), as well as the use of alcohol by students during any team activities or travel. This includes personal time during team travel—at no point are students allowed to consume alcohol, illicit drugs, marijuana, or THC-containing products while involved in team-related activities or lodging.
The use of tobacco products—including smoking, chewing tobacco, and vaping—is also prohibited during all team activities. This includes but is not limited to training, racing, shared lodging, team socializing, and travel.
The presence of any substance in an athlete’s system that results in impairment or affects behavior during practices, races, travel, lodging, or social events is a violation of this policy, even if the substance was used prior to the activity. Substances must be fully cleared from the student-athlete’s system to ensure no impact on team participation or safety.
Anyone joining the team during official activities or visiting the team in their lodging—whether another athlete, family member, friend, or guest—is expected to adhere to the same no-drug, no-alcohol, no-tobacco, and no-vaping policy. It is the responsibility of both the coach and student-athletes to ensure that all guests comply.
Violation of this policy may result in suspension or permanent dismissal from the team and may be reported to CMU administration or law enforcement when appropriate.
Safe Ride Rule: Zero Judgment, 24/7
If a student-athlete finds themselves under the influence of alcohol, marijuana, or any substance—and is even thinking about driving—they must call the head coach immediately for a ride, no matter the hour.
There is zero judgment for requesting a safe ride while under the influence. The only unacceptable choice is putting yourself or others at risk. Driving under the influence may result in termination from the team and further consequences—regardless of whether an incident occurs.
Coach's 24/7 No-Judgment Ride Line:
📞 970-201-8113 (You may need to call 2–3 times in a row to override the 'Do Not Disturb' setting on a mobile phone at night if you are calling from a number not saved in the coach’s contacts.)
Every student-athlete is added to the coach’s "phone silence exception" list—the phone will ring, day or night. This is a rule for safety and trust: call, and you’ll be picked up—no questions, no shame.