Safety is your first responsibility as a coach. Know the protocols, carry the forms, and never hesitate to act when something doesn't look right.
You must have access to a signed Parent/Guardian Consent and Player Medical Release Form for every player on your roster at every practice and game.
These will be emailed to you in the first week or two of the season. Keep them saved on your phone or printed in your kit bag.
A fully stocked first aid kit must be present at every training session and game. Check it before every session — restock anything that's been used.
Minimum: bandages, antiseptic wipes, ice packs, medical gloves, emergency contact list, emergency blanket.
Headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, memory problems, blurry vision, slow reaction, sensitivity to light or noise, or "just doesn't seem right." Concussions can occur from falls or heading — no collision needed.
Calmly remove the player from the session or game. Do not let them "walk it off." Notify the parent or guardian immediately.
Even if the player feels better, they cannot return the same day. This is non-negotiable and you are legally protected in enforcing this.
Before the player can return to any training or game, a licensed healthcare provider trained in concussions must provide written clearance.
Email the completed form to [email protected] (page 2 is the concussion release form).
An Incident Report must be completed whenever any of the following occur:
Cancel or suspend training if lightning is within 10 miles or you can hear thunder. Wait 30 minutes after the last thunder/lightning before resuming.
Download the Zelus WBGT app (free). Check WBGT before every session. As coach, heat safety is your call. Water breaks every 15–20 min in high heat.
Pima County and Town of Marana make the official field closure decision. John or Kathy will text you AND it will be posted at ayso206.org.
Pick up ALL trash after every game and training session. This is our agreement with Pima County and Town of Marana for continued field access.
No pets are allowed at the field for games or training sessions. Communicate this to parents at the first team meeting.
Chairs, canopies, and banners must be at least 6 feet from the touchline. No climbing on goalposts or nets.
All AYSO volunteers are mandatory reporters under state law. If you have reasonable suspicion of child abuse or neglect, you are legally required to report it. Do not investigate yourself. Just report.