Social Media Policy
In recent years, Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, YouTube, Skype and other social networking sites have increased in popularity and are used by the majority of student-athletes at The University of Tampa.
Student-athletes may not be aware that third parties including the media, faculty, future employers and NCAA officials can easily access their profiles and view all personal information. This includes all pictures, videos, comments and posters. Inappropriate material found by third parties affects the perception of the student, the athletic department and the University. This may also be detrimental to a student-athletes future employment options.
Examples of inappropriate and offensive behaviors concerning participation in online communities may include depictions or presentations of the following:
1. Posting photos, videos, comments or posters showing the personal use of alcohol, tobacco, eg., no holding cups, cans, shot glasses etc.
2. Posting photos, videos, and comments that are of a sexual nature. This includes links to websites of a pornographic nature and other inappropriate material.
3. Posting pictures, videos, comments or posters that condone drug related activity. This includes but is not limited to images that portray the personal use of marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.
4. Using inappropriate or offensive language in all comments, videos and other postings. This includes threats of violence and derogatory comments against race and/or gender.
If a student-athlete’s profile and its contents are found to be inappropriate in accordance with the above behaviors, he/she will be subject to the following penalties: 1.) written warning; 2.) a meeting with Athletic Director and Head Coach; 3.) penalties as determined by the athletics department, for example, suspension or termination from athletic team. Other offensive behaviors may also be subject to discipline so please use proper judgment when posting content.
For your own safety, please keep the following recommendations in mind as you participate in social networking websites:
a.) Set your security settings so that only your friends can view your profile.
b.) You should not post your email, home address, local address, telephone number(s), or other personal information as it could lead to unwanted attention, stalking, identity theft, etc.
c.) Be aware of who you add as a friend to your site – many people are looking to take advantage of student-athletes or to seek connection with student-athletes.
d.) Consider how the above behaviors can be reflected in all Facebook applications.
If you are ever in doubt of the appropriateness of your online public material, consider whether it upholds and positively reflects your own values and ethics as well as the athletics department and the University’s. Remember always present a positive image and don’t do anything to embarrass yourself, the team, your family or the University.