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Fort Couch MS Athletics: 2023- 2024
Important information regarding participation in athletics for the 2023- 2024 school year: ~ All physicals for the 2023- 2024 school year should be completed after June 1, 2023. Any physical that is dated before June 1, 2023 can not be accepted for the 2023- 2024 school year. This is mandated by the PIAA (Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association) for all school districts across PA.
~ Sign ups for a fall team can be done exclusively through HEALTHY ROSTER.
~ The annual middle school athletic fee of $50 for the 20023-24 school year can be paid online. Click on the link to access the online payment portal- https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/
~ If you have any questions regarding middle school sports, contact Mr. Garrett Beard- Ft Couch Athletic Coordinator at gbeard@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Winter Sports Line-Up: (October '23- March '24)
~ Boys Travel Basketball: Two-Day Tryout on 10/24 & 10/25 (3:45- 5:15)~ Boys Intramural BasketBallers- Ft Couch Basketball League~ Wrestling: Season Begins- Nov. 17~ Girls Travel Basketball~ Girls Intramural BasketBallers- Ft Couch Basketball LeagueBoys Travel Basketball
7th & 8th grade teams will be decided during tryouts; all players that do not make this team will be encouraged to play in the Basketballers intramural program- see below. The travel team will practice and play at Boyce MS and compete on a 15-game schedule. This team will be created by USC's head varsity coach, Danny Holzer, and is intended to be a feeder program into the HS boys basketball program.Head Coaches: TBD
Equipment: All basketball players will need basketball shoes, shorts, a t-shirt, and a water bottle for practice each day. At the start of the season, a USC uniform will be issued. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Oct 23, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Oct. 23, 2023.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Basketballers (Boys Intramural Basketball Program)This 9-team Intramural basketball league is organized by the FC Athletic Department and played exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The nine teams, created by our three coaches, will compete in an 8-game regular season which will run up until the winter break. The season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the Basketballers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and will compete Monday - Friday from approximately 3:30-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.Head Coaches: Rich Ali- rali@uscsd.k12.pa.us/ Andrew Bowers - abowers@uscsd.k12.pa. us / Steve Levine - slevine@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All BasketBaller players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A uniform jersey will be provided for games. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season. In addition, we ask each BasketBaller player to wear black shorts and a white t-shirt under their jersey for all games.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Oct 31, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Oct. 31, 2023.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. WrestlingLearn the art of wrestling from our experienced team of coaches and participate on a team that has a wide range of weight classes for all student-athletes. Also, gain life-building characteristics such as: stamina, max strength, speed, power, core strength, grip strength, proprioception, balance, physical toughness, flexibility. This team will flourish when it has athletes competing in all of the weight classes. Weight classes are as follows; 80-85, 86-91, 92-97, 98-103, 104-109, 110-115, 116-121, 122-127, 128-133, 134-141, 142-149, 150-159, 160-171, 172-204, 205-245.Head Coach: TBD
Equipment: All wrestlers will need to have the proper wrestling shoes, practice clothing, and water bottle. A USC uniform will be provided for matches; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Nov. 17, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Nov. 17, 2023.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Girls Travel Basketball
There will be two separate teams, one 7th and one 8th grade team will be decided during tryouts. All players that do not make this team will be encouraged to play in the Basketballers intramural program- see details below. The travel team will practice and play at Boyce MS and compete in a 15-game schedule. This team will be created by USC's head varsity coach, Pete Serio, and is intended to be a feeder program into the HS girls basketball program.
7th Grade Coach: TBD
8th Grade Coach: TBD
Equipment: All basketball players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A USC uniform will be provided for games; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before January 2, 2024. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before January 2, 2024.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. BasketBallers (Girls Intramural Basketball Program)
The 4 to 6 girls basketball teams are organized by the FC Athletic Department and the games are played exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The teams that are created by our coaches will compete in a regular season which will run from January through February. The season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the BasketBallers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and compete 2-3 days per week, Monday - Friday, from approximately 3:30-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.
Coaches: TBD
Equipment: All BasketBaller players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A uniform jersey will be provided for games. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season. In addition, we ask each BasketBaller player to wear black shorts and a white t-shirt under their jersey for all games.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before January 10 2024. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before January 10, 2024.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Fall Sports Line-Up: (August '23- October '23)
~ Boys Football (7th and 8th grade teams)~ Girls Travel Volleyball (7th and 8th grade teams)~ Girls Intramural Volleyball- Ft Couch Volleyball League~ New: Girls Field Hockey- Instructional Clinics for the Fall '23~ Co-Ed Cross Country~ Co-Ed SwimmingBoys Football (7th and 8th grade teams)
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
USC football has a great tradition of excellence over the years with multiple WPIAL and PIAA championships and our Ft Couch middle school football program is where it all begins. Join in on the winning ways and learn from our team of experienced coaches. There are typically two teams during the season, one 7th grade team and one 8th grade team.
8th grade Head Coach: Jared Nicholson - jnicholson@uscsd.k12.pa.us
7th grade Head Coach: Phillip Elias Sr. - philelias411@gmail.com
Equipment: all football equipment (excluding cleats) is issued by USCSD and every USCSD helmet is reconditioned and certified for the current school year.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 14, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2023-2024 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Girls Travel Volleyball (7th and 8th grade teams)
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
Wednesday, August 23: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (3:00- 3:35) in the FC Gym
Monday, August 28 (3:40-5:15pm): TRYOUT Day #1 (FCMS)
Tuesday, August 29 (3:40-5:15pm): TRYOUT Day #2 (FCMS) note: teams will be determined
Wednesday, August 30: No Practice (practice/game will move from FCMS to BoyceMS)
Thursday, Aug 31 (4:00- 5:30pm): 1st team practice @ Boyce MS
Note: daily transportation will be provided to Boyce MS for practice and home events.
Friday, September 1 (4:00- 5:30pm): Practice @ BoycevMS
USC girls volleyball is one of Ft Couch's most popular sports to play during the Fall season. In years past, we have had over 100 girls come into the program to learn the basic skills and, for the majority of girls, it's their first time playing competitive volleyball. Just like last year, we plan to develop a travel volleyball team that will be hand-picked by our USC varsity coaches. The teams will compete on a 16-game schedule that travels to play teams all around the South Hills. There will be two separate teams, one 7th and one 8th grade team that will be decided during try-outs. All players that do not make this travel team will be encouraged to play in the VolleyBallers intramural program- see details below.
8th grade Head Coach: Jack Zebo - jzebo@uscsd.k12.pa.us
7th grade Head Coach: Abbey DiGregorio - adigregorio@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All volleyball participants should have tennis shoes, black volleyball shorts and knee pads. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player. However, the jersey must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 25, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2023-2024 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Girls "VolleyBallers" Intramural Program
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
Wednesday, August 23: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (3:00- 3:35) in the FC Gym
Wednesday, August 30 (3:40-5:15pm): EVALUATION Day #1 (FCMS)
Thursday, August 31 (3:40-5:15pm): (7th Grade Only) EVALUATION Day #2 (FCMS)
Friday, September 1: No Practice ~ the 8 teams will be created and a schedule will be posted on the VolleyBallers Canvas page.
The USC girls "VolleyBaller" intramural program has been developed for all girls interested in competitive volleyball. This fun program will be played exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The teams will be organized by the athletic department and our team of coaches will run a regular-season schedule through the months of September and October. The VolleyBallers intramural season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the 2023 VolleyBallers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and compete or practice 3-4 days per week from approximately 3:40-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.
Intramural Coach: Jennifer Cramer - jcramer@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Intramural Coach: Betsy Hess - bhess@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Intramural Coach: Emily Kennedy - emilykennedy07@gmail.com
Intramural Coach: Jamie Houck - jhouck@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All volleyball participants should have tennis shoes, black volleyball shorts and knee pads. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player. However, the jersey must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 25, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2023-2024 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Girls Field Hockey
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
Wednesday, August 23: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (3:00- 3:35) in room 110
Monday, September 11 (3:45- 5:00): 1st Instructional Clinic @ Ft Couch (cafeteria)
Monday, September 18 (3:45- 5:00): Instructional Clinic @ Ft Couch (cafeteria)
Monday, September 25 (3:45- 5:00): Instructional Clinic @ Ft Couch (cafeteria)
Monday, October 2 (3:45- 5:00): Instructional Clinic @ Ft Couch (cafeteria)
Monday, October 9 (3:45- 5:00): Instructional Clinic @ Ft Couch (cafeteria) | Season Concluded
Girls field hockey has been around for many years at the high school level and now Fort Couch would like to become a feeder program. Starting in the fall of 2023, the athletic department will hold a weekly instructional practice for any girl interested in learning more about this international sport. The clinics will run two times per week and will focus on skills, rules, and strategies.
Head Coach: Aimee Mack - amack@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All participants should have athletic attire and shoes, plus goggles and shin pads. Field hockey sticks will be provided or you can bring your own stick.
Co-Ed Cross Country
Join SportsYOU via app: "Ft Couch Cross Country 2023" / access code: N4CX-B6XX
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
Wednesday, August 23: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (3:00- 3:35) in the FC Cafeteria
Monday, August 28 (3:45-5:15pm): PRACTICE @ Ft Couch MS
Tuesday, August 29 (3:45-5:15pm): PRACTICE @ Ft Couch MS
Wednesday, August 30: No Practice
Note: daily transportation will be provided to Gilfillian Trail for practice and home events.
Thursday, August 31 (4:00-5:30pm): PRACTICE @ Gilfillian Trail
Friday, September 1: No Practice
Monday, September 4: Labor Day (No School)
Tuesday, September 5 (4:00-5:30pm): PRACTICE @ Gilfillian Trail
Head Coach Steve Levine has been helping Ft Couch runners for over 25 years and has been one of our winningest MS coaches of all time. His experience and love for the sport plays a big part in making cross-country an enjoyable experience for roughly 80 boys and girls each Fall. Along with most practices, each cross-country home meet will be held on the 1.95 mile CC course at Gilfillan trail in the heart of USC. Students will practice 2 days at Ft Couch and 2 days per week over at the Gilfillian trail. USC busses will commute the students to the trail and parents will be required to pickup at Gilfillan. Come join in on the fun and compete against eight schools from across the South Hills who will run for top honors.
Head Coach: Steve Levine- slevine@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All cross-country participants should have running shoes and black running shorts. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player. However, the jersey must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 27, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2023-2024 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Co-Ed Swimming
Daily Schedule Link: https://www.uscsd.k12.pa.us/Page/2142
Wednesday, August 23: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (3:00- 3:35) in the FC LGI
Note: daily transportation will be provided to USC High School Pool for practice and home events.
Tuesday, August 29 (4:00-5:30pm): 1st PRACTICE @ USC High School Pool
Wednesday, August 30 (4:00-5:30pm): PRACTICE @ USC High School Pool
Thursday, August 31 (4:00-5:30pm): PRACTICE @ USC High School Pool
Friday, September 1 (4:00-5:30pm): PRACTICE @ USC High School Pool
Monday, September 4: Labor Day (No school)
Practice and compete at USC's newest and finest competitive high school swimming pool in Western PA. This new facility will give our Ft Couch swimmers a chance to experience swimming at its best. Plus, each participant will individually learn from our elite coaches and gain experience while taking part in a fun and healthy team sport. During swim meets, race and set yourself apart in your favourite events such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly, as well as the individual medley.
Head Coach: Dave Schraven - dmschraven@gmail.com
Assistant Coach: Megan Billco- coachmegan@peaqpgh.org
Assistant Coach: Lauren Connors- coachlauren@peaqpgh.org
Equipment: All swimmers will need to have their own goggles and a black swimsuit. A USC warm-up jacket will be provided for each athlete on the team. However, the jacket must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 28, 2023. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2023-2024 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Healthy Roster Instructions for New Users
If you are a new user to Healthy Roster or need to add a student to your existing family account, please email the following information to our USC Athletic Trainers (listed below), so they can set-up your account information.
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Student’s name
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Student’s DOB
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Student’s graduation year
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Student’s sports for the school year
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Guardian’s name
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Guardian’s email address
USC Athletic Medical Trainer: Brittney Halbig: brittney.halbig@ahn.org
USC Athletic Medical Trainer: Kelsey Wallace: Kelsey.Wallace@ahn.org
USC Athletic Medical Trainer: Emily Ondo: emily.ondo@ahn.org
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Fort Couch MS Athletics: 2022- 2023
Spring Sports Line-Up:
Boys Volleyball - General meeting with all interested athletes on Wednesday, March 1 in the cafeteria during period 8; 2:45- 3:10
Co-Ed Track and Field- General meeting with all interested athletes on Thursday, March 9 in the cafeteria during period 8; 2:45- 3:10
Girls Softball- General meeting with all interested softball players on Thursday, March 9 in room 110 during period 8; 2:45- 3:15
Boys Volleyball
Wednesday, March 1 - Team Meeting; FCMS Cafe; 2:50- 3:10pm
Monday, March 6 - Healthy Roster account deadline; see below for more information
Wednesday, March 8 - 1st team practice; FCMS gymnasium; 3:30- 5pm
Bump, set and spike! Come join the fun this spring season on the volleyball court while taking part in this high-energy team sport that will surely test your athleticism. Volleyball programs are starting to pop up everywhere and it's a great time to learn how to play competitive volleyball. Because boys volleyball starts for most athletes in the region at the middle school level, our team of coaches will teach the fundamental skills necessary to learn, develop, and excel in this rising sport. On game day there will be two separate teams competing. Both 7th and 8th grade students will play together during a 17-game schedule, and all practices will take place after school in the Fort Couch gym.
Head Coaches:
Justin Gremba (Varsity)- jgremba@uscsd.k12.pa.us / Jace Palmer (JV)- jpalmer@uscsd.k12.
pa.us Equipment: All boy volleyball participants should have tennis shoes, solid black volleyball shorts and knee pads. USC game jerseys will be provided for each player and must be returned at the end of the season.
~ New Users to Healthy Roster- make sure to have your athlete registered before March 8, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ Returning 2022- 23 athletes to Healthy Roster- you must complete Section 8 before March 8, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year. Girls and Boys Track and Field
Thursday, March 9 - Team Meeting; FCMS Cafe; 2:50- 3:10pm
Tuesday, March 21 - 1st practice of the year
Our Fort Couch USC track and field program is open to all athletes from all kinds of prior athletic backgrounds. Athletes geared at improving speed can take part in running events such as 100m hurdles, 1600m and 800m run, 100m - 200m and 400m dash, 4x100m relay and 4x400m relay. Athletes looking for more technical events may choose to learn field events such as the triple jump, long jump, or high jump. And lastly, the athlete looking to show off their strength could throw the shot put or discus. We will have all of these events available for both boys and girls in 7th and 8th grade. All track practices will take place at the USCHS stadium track immediately after school. Busing is provided to the track and parent pickup is in the High School lot at 5:00.
Head Coach: Greg Calvetti - gcalvetti@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All track participants will need to have running shoes, solid black shorts and a water bottle. A USC track jersey will be provided for meets; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ New Users to Healthy Roster- make sure to have your athlete registered before March 21, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ Returning 2022-23 athletes to Healthy Roster- you must complete Section 8 before March 21, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year. Girls Fast Pitch Softball
Thursday, March 9 - Team Meeting; FCMS Room 110; 2:50- 3:10pm
Thursday, March 16 - 1st team practice @ Boyce MS; 3:45- 5:00
Friday, March 17 - 2nd team practice; Boyce MS; 3:45- 5:00
Take your softball game to the next level and join our 7th and 8th grade girls softball team! Our 16 game schedule will have you competing against teams from all around the South Hills area. Practices and games will be played at the former varsity field over at Boyce MS and when inclement weather "strikes" this Spring, our FC team will have access to the Boyce gym for practice. Busing will be available to transport our FC students over to Boyce each day. Go Lady Panthers!
Head Coach: Garrett Beard -gbeard@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Assistant Coach: Jessica Robinson- jrobinson@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: Each softball participant will need to have a glove, cleats, a helmet (preferred), a softball bat (preferred), and a water bottle. A USC softball uniform will be provided for games; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ New Users to Healthy Roster- make sure to have your athlete registered before March 15, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ Returning 2022-23 athletes to Healthy Roster- you must complete Section 8 before March 15, 2023. See Instructions Below.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year. Healthy Roster Instructions for New Users
If you are a new user to Healthy Roster, please email the following information to our USC Athletic Trainers (listed below), so they can set-up your account information.
-
Student’s name
-
Student’s DOB
-
Student’s graduation year
-
Student’s sports for the school year
-
Guardian’s name
-
Guardian’s email address
USC Athletic Trainer: Kelsey Wallace: kwallace@uscsd.k12.pa.us
USC Athletic Trainer: Brittney Halbig: bhalbig@uscsd.k12.pa.us
USC Athletic Trainer: Robert Smith: rsmith02@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Healthy Roster for Athletes Competing in a Second or Third Season
Any student-athlete that will be returning this winter or spring season to play a second or third sport is required to complete SECTION 8. See steps below.
1. Go to the Documents tab within your child's Health Roster account.
2. Go to Upload a New Document and click the icon.
3. Select Document Type using the pull down arrow and select PIAA CIPPE- Section 8.
4. Fill out the fields and then click "Review and Sign" to review the completed document.
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2022-2023 Winter Sports Line-Up:
Girls Travel BasketballGirls Intramural BasketBallers- Ft Couch Basketball LeagueWrestlingBoys Travel BasketballBoys Intramural BasketBallers- Ft Couch Basketball LeagueGirls Travel Basketball
Thursday, January 5- Travel Team Tryout; Day 1 of 2 - 3:30-5pm @ FCMS Gym
Friday, January 6 - Travel Team Tryout; Day 2 of 2 - 3:30-5pm @ FCMS Gym; 7th Grade Only
Monday, January 9 - Practice @ Ft Couch MS; 3:30 - 5:00pm
Tuesday, January 10 - 1st Team Practice @ Boyce MS; 3:30 daily bus transportation from FC to Boyce; 3:45- 5:00pm
Wednesday, January 11 - Practice @ Boyce MS; 3:30 - 5:00pm
There will be two separate teams, one 7th and one 8th grade team will be decided during tryouts. All players that do not make this team will be encouraged to play in the Basketballers intramural program- see details below. The travel team will practice and play at Boyce MS and compete in a 15-game schedule. This team will be created by USC's head varsity coach, Pete Serio, and is intended to be a feeder program into the HS girls basketball program.
Head Coaches: 7th Grade Coach: Jen Cramer - jcramer@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8th Grade Coach: Caren Falascino - cfalascino@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All basketball players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A USC uniform will be provided for games; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before January 5, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before January 4, 2023.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. BasketBallers (Girls Intramural Basketball Program)
Tuesday, January 10 - 7th grade evaluation practice; @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm
Wednesday, January 11 - 8th grade evaluation practice; @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm; Teams will be created by 7pm and updated on the Basketballers Canvas page; Please check the Canvas page to find out what team you are on before the 1st practice of the season.
Thursday, January 12 - Practice @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm; Team name to practice is TBD
Friday, January 13 - Practice @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm; Team: Team name to practice is TBD
Monday, January 16 - No Practice; Teacher Inservice
Tuesday, January 17 - Start of the Regular Season
The 4 to 6 girls basketball teams are organized by the FC Athletic Department and the games are played exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The teams that are created by our coaches will compete in a regular season which will run from January through February. The season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the BasketBallers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and compete 2-3 days per week, Monday - Friday, from approximately 3:30-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.
Head Coaches: Dana Mellinger - dmellinger@uscsd.k12.pa.us Abbey Digregorio - adigregorio@uscsd.k12.pa.us Brianna Bond - bbond@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All BasketBaller players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A uniform jersey will be provided for games. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season. In addition, we ask each BasketBaller player to wear black shorts and a white t-shirt under their jersey for all games.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before January 10 2022. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before January 10, 2023.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. WrestlingWednesday, October 26 - Coaches meeting with all interested wrestlers during period 8; LGI 2:45- 3:10
Wednesday, November 16- (optional) Conditioning Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmThursday, November 17- (optional) Conditioning Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmFriday, November 18- Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmMonday, November 21- Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmTuesday, November 22- Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmWednesday, November 23- No school; No practiceThursday, November 24- No school; No practice; Thanksgiving DayFriday, November 25- No school; No practiceMonday, November 28- Practice @ FCMS (cafeteria); 3:45- 5:15pmLearn the art of wrestling from our experienced team of coaches and participate on a team that has a wide range of weight classes for all student-athletes. Also, gain life-building characteristics such as: stamina, max strength, speed, power, core strength, grip strength, proprioception, balance, physical toughness, flexibility. This team will flourish when it has athletes competing in all of the weight classes. Weight classes are as follows; 80-85, 86-91, 92-97, 98-103, 104-109, 110-115, 116-121, 122-127, 128-133, 134-141, 142-149, 150-159, 160-171, 172-204, 205-245.Head Coach: Corey DelMastro- cdelmastro@uscsd.k12.pa.us / Zoltan Toth- ftcouchpanther@gmail.com
Equipment: All wrestlers will need to have the proper wrestling shoes, practice clothing, and water bottle. A USC uniform will be provided for matches; however, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Nov. 17, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Nov. 17, 2022.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Boys Travel Basketball
Monday, October 17 - Coaches meeting with all interested basketball players during period 8; LGI 2:45- 3:10
Monday, October 24 - Travel Team Tryout; Day 1 of 2 - 3:30-5pm @ FCMS Gym
Tuesday, October 25 - Travel Team Tryout; Day 2 of 2 - 3:30-5pm @ FCMS Gym
Wednesday, October 26 - No Practice
Thursday, October 27 - 1st Team Practice @ Boyce MS; 3:30 daily bus transportation from FC to Boyce; 3:45- 5:00pm
Friday, October 28 - Practice @ Boyce MS MS; 3:30 - 5:00pm
7th & 8th grade teams will be decided during tryouts; all players that do not make this team will be encouraged to play in the Basketballers intramural program- see below. The travel team will practice and play at Boyce MS and compete on a 15-game schedule. This team will be created by USC's head varsity coach, Danny Holzer, and is intended to be a feeder program into the HS boys basketball program.Head Coaches: 7th Grade Coach: Tyler George - tgeorge@uscsd.k12.pa.us 8th Grade Coach: Sam Klein - samk1514@gmail.com
Equipment: All basketball players will need basketball shoes, shorts, a t-shirt, and a water bottle for practice each day. At the start of the season, a USC uniform will be issued. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Oct 23, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Oct. 23, 2022.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. Basketballers (Boys Intramural Basketball Program)Monday, October 17 - Coaches meeting with all interested basketball players during period 8; LGI 2:45- 3:10
Thursday, October 27 - 7th grade evaluation practice; @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm
Friday, October 28 - 8th grade evaluation practice; @ FCMS Gym; 3:45- 5:00pm
Monday, October 31 - No School for Students (Teacher Inservice); Teams will be created and posted on the BasketBallers Canvas page by 4:00pm
Tuesday, November 1 - Practice for Team Levine
Wednesday, November 2 - Teacher Meetings; No practice
Thursday, November 3 - Practice for Team Bowers
Friday, November 4 - Practice for Team Ali
Monday, November 7 & Tuesday, November 8 - No School for Students (Teacher Inservice)
Wedsnesday, November 9 - Start of the Regular Season
This 9-team Intramural basketball league is organized by the FC Athletic Department and played exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The nine teams, created by our three coaches, will compete in an 8-game regular season which will run up until the winter break. The season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the Basketballers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and will compete Monday - Friday from approximately 3:30-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.Head Coaches: Rich Ali- rali@uscsd.k12.pa.us/ Andrew Bowers - abowers@uscsd.k12.pa. us / Steve Levine - slevine@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All BasketBaller players will need to have basketball shoes and a water bottle. A uniform jersey will be provided for games. However, this uniform must be returned at the end of the season. In addition, we ask each BasketBaller player to wear black shorts and a white t-shirt under their jersey for all games.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Oct 31, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ Returning athletes from the fall season must update their Healthy Roster account by completing Section 8 and uploading it onto your account before Oct. 31, 2022.
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.
k12.pa.us/middle-school- athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2022-2023 Fall Sports Line-Up:
Boys Football (7th and 8th grade team)Girls Travel Volleyball (7th and 8th grade team)Girls Intramural Volleyball- Ft Couch Volleyball LeagueCo-Ed Cross CountryCo-Ed SwimmingImportant notes regarding the start of the fall season:
~ Signing your child up for a team is done exclusively through HEALTHY ROSTER.
~ Please make sure to have your student-athlete registered in Healthy Roster before your team's deadline that is indicated below. Click Healthy Roster for more information.
~ The annual middle school sports fee of $50 for the 20022-23 school year can now be paid online. Click the link below.
https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/
Boys Football (7th and 8th grade teams)
Wednesday, August 17 (4:00- 6:00pm): Heat Acclimation Practice #1
Thursday, August 18 (4:00- 6:00pm): Heat Acclimation Practice #2
Friday, August 19 (4:00- 6:00pm): Heat Acclimation Practice #3 & Equipment Distribution
Monday, August 22 (4:00-6:00pm): 1st full pad practice will begin
USC football has a great tradition of excellence over the years with multiple WPIAL and PIAA championships and our Ft Couch middle school football program is where it all begins. So join in on the winning ways and learn from our team of experienced coaches. Due to the high registration for 8th grade, Ft Couch will have two 8th grade teams during the 2022 fall season. 7th grade will compete with one team.
8th grade Head Coach: Rick Murphy - murphjr77@gmail.com
7th grade Head Coach: Jared Nicholson - jnicholson@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: all football equipment (excluding cleats) is issued by USCSD and every USCSD helmet is reconditioned and certified for the current school year. If you plan on using your own helmet, you must get it certified for the upcoming 2022 season. Century Sports of Peters Twp can certify your own personal helmet, but you must call Century Sports to schedule a drop off.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 15, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Girls Travel Volleyball (7th and 8th grade team)
Wednesday, August 24: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (2:47- 3:10) in the FC Gymnasium
Friday, August 26 (3:30-5:00pm): TRYOUT Day #1 (FCMS)
Monday, August 29 (3:30-5:00pm): TRYOUT Day #2 (FCMS) note: teams will be determined
Tuesday, August 30 (3:45-5:15pm): 1st team practice @ Ft Couch
Wednesday, Aug 31 (3:45-5:15pm): Practice @ Ft Couch (practice/game will move from FCMS to BoyceMS)
Thursday, September 1 (3:45-5:15pm): Practice @ Boyce
Note: daily transportation will be provided to Boyce MS for practice and home events.
Friday, September 2 (3:45-5:15pm): Practice @ Boyce
USC girls volleyball is one of Ft Couch's most popular sports to play during the Fall season. In years past, we have had over 100 girls come into the program to learn the basic skills and, for the majority of them it's their first time playing competitive volleyball. This year we plan to develop a new travel volleyball team that will be hand-picked by our USC varsity coaches. The teams will compete on an 18-game schedule that travels to play teams all around the South Hills. There will be two separate teams, one 7th and one 8th grade team that will be decided during try-outs. All players that do not make this travel team will be encouraged to play in the VolleyBallers intramural program- see details below.
8th grade Head Coach: Karen Martini - kmartini@uscsd.k12.pa.us
7th grade Head Coach: Noah Mickey - nodmicke@gmail.com
Equipment: All volleyball participants should have tennis shoes, black volleyball shorts and knee pads. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player and must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 30, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Girls "VolleyBallers" Intramural Program
Wednesday, August 24: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (2:47- 3:10) in the FC Gymnasium
Thursday, September 1: 1st Evaluation Practice @ FCMS (3:30-5pm)
Friday, September 2: 2nd Evaluation Practice @ FCMS (3:30-5pm)
Tuesday, September 6: The eight VolleyBaller teams will be posted on Canvas by 7:00pm; Season begins on 9/14
Wednesday, September 7: No Practice- Teacher Meetings After School
Thursday, September 8: Team Practice for team COBRA, CHAOS, DYNAMITE, DIAMONDS
Friday, September 9: Team Practice for team SPIKES, STARS, WILDCATS, WARRIORS
USC girls "VolleyBaller" intramural program will play exclusively in the Ft Couch gymnasium. The teams will be organized by the athletic department and our team of coaches will run a regular-season schedule through the months of September and October. The VolleyBallers intramural season will conclude with a tournament to decide who is the 2022 VolleyBallers Champion. Each student will be assigned to a team and compete or practice 3-4 days per week from approximately 3:30-5:30 each day. No weekend commitment.
Coach: Jennifer Cramer - jcramer@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Coach: Abbey Digregorio - adigregorio@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Coach: Jane Schlichting - jschlichting@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Coach: Samatha Wilhelm - samwilhelm13@hotmail.com
Equipment: All volleyball participants should have tennis shoes, black volleyball shorts and knee pads. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player and must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Sep 1, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Co-Ed Cross Country
Wednesday, August 24: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (2:47- 3:10) in the FC Cafateria
Monday, August 29: Ft. Couch (3:25-4:45)
Tuesday, August 30: Ft. Couch (3:25-4:45)
Wednesday, August 31: Gilfillan Trail (3:25-4:45)
Thursday, September 1: Gilfillan Trail (3:25-4:45)
Click here to view the parents' informational handout guide
Head Coach Steve Levine has been helping Ft Couch runners for over 25 years and has been one of our winningest MS coaches of all time. His experience and love for the sport plays a big part in making cross-country an enjoyable experience for roughly 80 boys and girls each Fall. Along with most practices, each cross-country home meet will be held on the 1.95 mile CC course at Gilfillan trail in the heart of USC. Students will practice 2 days at Ft Couch and 2 days per week over at the Gilfillian trail. USC busses will commute the students to the trail and parents will be required to pickup at Gilfillan. Come join in on the fun and compete against eight schools from across the South Hills who will run for top honors.
Head Coach: Steve Levine - slevine@uscsd.k12.pa.us
Equipment: All cross-country participants should have running shoes and black running shorts. A USC game jersey will be provided for each player, but must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 29, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Co-Ed Swimming
Wednesday, August 24: Coaches informational meeting during Period 8 (2:47- 3:10) in the LGI
Tuesday, August 30 (3:45-5:00pm): 1st practice at the HS swimming pool
Wednesday 8/31 - Friday 9/2: No Practice
Tuesday, September 6 (3:45-5:00pm): Practice at USCHS
Wednesday, September 7 (3:45-5:00pm): Practice at USCHS
Note: daily transportation will be provided to the high school swimming pool for practice and swim meets.
Click here to view a message from head coach, Alex Hardwick
Practice and compete at USC's newest and finest competitive high school swimming pool in Western PA. This new facility will give our Ft Couch swimmers a chance to experience swimming at its best. Plus, each participant will individually learn from our elite coaches and gain experience while taking part in a fun and healthy team sport. During swim meets, race and set yourself apart in your favourite events such as freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly, as well as the individual medley.
Head Coach: Alex Hardwick - coachalex@peaqpgh.org
Equipment: All swimmers will need to have their own goggles and a black swimsuit. A USC swim warm-up jacket will be provided for each athlete, but this jacket must be returned at the end of the season.
~ Make sure to have your athlete registered in Healthy Roster before Aug 29, 2022. Healthy Roster
~ The Fort Couch Athletic Registration Fee of $50 can now be paid online: https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.us/middle-school-athletic-registration/ Please note: This is a one-time athletic $50 fee for the entire 2022-2023 school year and allows your athlete to play in the Fall, Winter, and Spring seasons.
Healthy Roster Instructions for New Users
If you are a new user to Healthy Roster, please email the following information to our USC Athletic Trainers (listed below), so they can set-up your account information.
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Student’s name
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Student’s DOB
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Student’s graduation year
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Student’s sports for the school year
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Guardian’s name
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Guardian’s email address
USC Athletic Trainer: Brittney Halbig: brittney.halbig@ahn.
org USC Athletic Trainer: Robert Smith: Robert.SMITH@ahn.org
USC Athletic Trainer: Kelsey Wallace: Kelsey.Wallace@ahn.org
Important notes regarding the start of the 2022- 2023 school year:
~ Signing your child up for a team is done exclusively through HEALTHY ROSTER.
~ The annual middle school sports fee of $50 for the 20022-23 school year can now be paid online. Click the link below.
https://webinfo.uscsd.k12.pa.
us/middle-school-athletic- registration/ ~ If you have any questions regarding middle school sports, contact Mr. Garrett Beard- Ft Couch Athletic Coordinator at gbeard@uscsd.k12.pa.us.
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