Social Media Responsibility

With the rising popularity of social media sites such as TikTok, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, etc., student-athletes should take responsibility for the content of individual pages. Questionable content can present a negative image of student-athlete as an ABAC student-athlete, and therefore a negative image of ABAC Athletics. You should also be aware that you and your friends are not the only people who view your information. Employers view these pages as part of background checks on possible employees. People who would do you harm also use these pages as means of locating you. 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 Institution. Remember to always present a positive image and refrain from actions which may embarrass yourself, the team, your family, or the Institution.

Examples of inappropriate and offensive behaviors concerning participation in online communities may include depictions or presentations of the following:

o   Posting photos, videos, comments, or posters showing the personal use of alcohol, tobacco, e.g., no holding cups, cans, shot glasses, etc.

o   Posting photos, videos, and comments that are of a sexual nature. This includes links to websites of a pornographic nature and other inappropriate material and innuendo.

o   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.

o   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.

o   Posting information, photos, statements, and items that could embarrass or ruin the reputation of you, your team, the athletic department, or Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. This includes statements, information, photos, and items that may be posted by others on your page.

o   Student-athletes who do not conform to the stated expected behavior of this code may be subject to discipline. The discipline may range from a warning to dismissal from the team, and/or reduction/withdrawal of athletics related financial aid.