Player safety is Skylands Soccer Club’s primary goal and we take the subject of head trauma seriously. As research emerges and soccer’s governing bodies adopt new policies, SSC will likewise revisit its own policies.
HEAD TRAUMA
CDC Concussion Certification
Soccer is a contact sport that involves some level of risk. As with all contact sports, head injuries infrequently occur from collision or impact with the ball, another player, the ground or the goal post. As a result, SSC mandates that every trainer or parent volunteer who works with players receive a certificate from completed Head's Up to Youth Sports Training administered by the CDC. Identifying head trauma and taking appropriate action is a continual point of emphasis for all SSC volunteers.
Return-to-Play Policy
In the event a player is removed from the game or training session due to head trauma or suspected head trauma, that player must be cleared in writing by a doctor before returning to any on-field activities. SSC’s Board of Director's must be notified as soon as possible when there is head trauma or suspected head trauma, and will coordinate return to play. Player's will not be allowed on the field until a member of the board has signed off on it.
Concussion Training
HEADING POLICY
New Jersey Youth Soccer has adopted a policy of NO HEADING in games or practices for u11 teams and below and for 10 year old players and younger playing up.
Guidelines prepared by Rick Meana, DOC, for u12 to u14 players was also adopted.
Guidelines
Adopted u11 Age Groups and Younger - Deliberating Heading the Ball game guidelines for referees - 4/17/2016 -
Guidelines