The spring sports season is here. Here are some sports risk management best practices to follow.

Coaches are expected to:

  • Follow the rules and regulations of the WIAA
  • Provide a properly maintained facility or field for student athletes to practice and compete
  • Inspect the facility or field before play
  • Pre-plan drills and practice/game activities for safety and appropriateness
  • Evaluate athletes prior to practices and games for injury and ability to play
  • Provide only equipment approved by the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment
  • Inspect the condition of the equipment regularly and repair or replace defective equipment
  • Instruct athletes on the proper use of equipment and safe procedures for competition
  • Provide proper supervision at all times, including transportation and overnights
  • Provide timely and appropriate emergency medical service to injured athletes
  • Complete training in concussion and sudden cardiac arrest awareness and document any instances of concussion protocol
  • Be weather aware. If you can hear thunder you can be struck by lightning
  • Discuss and warn athletes and parents of the risks of playing the sport. Use a sports specific parental consent form and maintain the signed consent forms in your records
  • Do not allow students to operate powered field maintenance equipment
  • Document all injuries on a student accident report and notify parents of the injury

Student athletes also have responsibilities and are expected to:

  • Follow your district’s rules and Athletics Code of Conduct, report suspected violations to the coach
  • Wear all equipment issued by the coach and advise the coach of any concerns/issues with the equipment
  • Advise the coach of any illness or injury that has occurred
  • Warm-up before participation
  • Stay alert to your surroundings and report any concerns or hazards to your coach immediately
  • Follow all sport specific safety rules