Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
1 of 25
Lesson Plan
Last Revision: 06/06/11
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier
Revision
Effective Date
Jan 1, 2013
Class Length
2 hours
Change Summary
12/14/11
Update to Test
10/2012
Addition of Concussion Policy, HRI
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
2 of 25
Last Revision: 06/06/11
1. Lesson Plan Goals
To provide all AYSO volunteers with Safe Haven training on the importance of the creating a safe,
fun, fair, positive environment- “safe haven”- for all our participants. The course covers the vision of
AYSO, AYSO policies, the components of the Safe Haven program and the role of volunteers in
AYSO.
2. Class Length
2 hours (Allow time for questions and discussion during this time) The presentation format should
take about 1 ½ hours with 30 minutes questions and taking the certification test.
3. Instructor Requirements
Currently all Coach, Referee and Management Instructors who have taken the course may teach the
course.
4. Learning Objectives
To understand the importance of:
1.
The uniqueness of AYSO among youth sports programs
2.
The AYSO vision and philosophies
3.
Creating a Safe Haven
4.
Volunteer requirements for volunteer protection
5.
Training and certification
6.
Child Abuse prevention
7.
Child and volunteer protection policies
8.
Emergency medical conditions including concussions
9.
Environmental hazards and other safety concerns including lightning and other weather
conditions
10.
AYSO volunteers as role models for AYSO’s principles of sport
11.
Kids Zone
5. Prerequisites
None
6. Materials
Course Roster
Handouts downloaded from ayso.org instructor page
CDC/AYSO Heads Up Concussion Information Sheets
Codes of Conduct
AYSO’s Safe Haven Manual
Volunteer Application Forms
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
3 of 25
Last Revision: 06/06/11
AYSO’s Safe Haven Certification Test and Answer Key
7. Equipment
Flip Chart available at Section Conferences
Markers
LCD Projector and screen
8. Special Instructor Notes
Legend:
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





Activity
Key (Critical) Point
Question
Instructor Note
Handout
PowerPoint
Nuts and Bolts
Instructors: There is a Power Point Presentation for this workshop which follows this lesson
plan. Please be familiar with the content of the lesson plan before teaching. There is a lot of
information that is not on the PPP. We have left the lesson plan as is just in case the PPP is not
available. Be prepared to teach the lesson plan as is even if there is an equipment failure.

This course must be registered in eAYSO and a roster needs to be filled out by the participants
and then entered into eAYSO .

If you are working with a co-instructor, coordinate each assigned topic with enough advance
notice for proper preparation. Arrive early enough to arrange the room that best fits the venue and
anticipated number of participants. (Keep in mind what room arrangement lends itself to this
course.)

After the introduction of the instructors, any housekeeping items should be covered. Start with the
overview of what information each student will go away with, and how that information empowers
them to volunteer in AYSO.

Suggest that the participants share contact information for networking, problem solving and
mentoring.
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
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Last Revision: 06/06/11
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End the workshop by giving a list of people who can be called with technical questions. This could
be the Area Director or National Office.
Section Conference Workshop – under 50 participants

Pass the roster around and ensure all participants sign it.

Always assess the audience to make sure that it is understood that this course cover the Safe
Haven training for all volunteers.

Watch your time during the presentation so that you will be able to answer questions. The more
participants in the workshop, the more questions there will be. It is important to keep
moving…this course has a lot of material that needs to be covered and a certification test at the
end.
Section Conference Workshop – 50 or more participants
Everything listed above in Section Conference Workshop – Under 50 participants applies plus:

For groups this large, class participation through questions and answers will be harder..

Ask if there are questions at the end of each module, but keep moving forward through the
presentation. There is a lot of material to cover in this course.
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
5 of 25
Lesson Plan
Last Revision: 06/06/11
9. Introduction:
Slide # 1 Put up this slide as participants are entering the room.



5 Minutes
Introduce yourself as course leader, the topic and co-instructors.
Discuss the fact that this course covers Safe Haven content for all volunteers; coaches, referees,
board members, team parents, etc.
The goal of the course is to create a universal understanding of what it means to volunteer in
AYSO and how to create a safe haven for all participants.

Slide #2 Course Roster
Instructor Note: Please make sure everyone signs the course roster.
Slide #3 Introduction
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

Slide automatically updates pictures of children participating in AYSO.
Offer the historical perspective, “AYSO was established in Torrance, CA in 1964 with just nine
teams and the dream to bring soccer to American children.”
Note the Safe Haven program and this course were designed to fulfill the promise of a safe, fun,
fair and positive environment for experiencing the benefit of youth sports.
Slide # 4 What is Safe Haven?
 Program designed by AYSO to meet the growing need for both Child and Volunteer Protection
 It was the first program of its kind in the country
o Now there are several programs in a number of youth organizations including Boy Scouts
of America
 It is vital to creating a family –friendly environment or “safe haven”.
Instructor Note:
provides for volunteer protection as much as child protection.
Slide # 5 Creating a Safe Haven
The Safe Haven program helps create a “safe haven” for AYSO participants by:
Instructor Note:




Click for each Bullet items to appear above the picture
Registering and Screening all Volunteers
Requiring Training and Certification
Providing Child and Volunteer Protection Policies
Promoting Safety and Injury Prevention
Slide #6 Overview

The Vision of AYSO – Answers to the question, Why AYSO?
Program:
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
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Lesson Plan
Last Revision: 06/06/11
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Creating a Safe Haven – the 4 components of the SH program
o Volunteer Requirements – Registering and Screening
o Training and Certification
o Child and Volunteer Protection Policies
o Promoting Safety and Injury Prevention
Volunteering in AYSO as role models.
Finally, a test.
10. Body (Lesson Procedure)
.Slide # 7 Why AYSO?
 AYSO’s Vision Statement answers the question, Why AYSO?
 Note: the importance of the phrase “that enrich children’s lives.” How many youth sports
programs share this concern?
 Unlike other youth sports programs where winning-at-all-costs may be the priority, AYSO’s vision
is to ensure that sport adds to a child’s life and that it doesn’t detract from it as we all know over zealous sport can.
Slide # 8 What makes AYSO unique?
 The mission of our organization is to educate and develop young people by encouraging their
interest and participation in soccer with an emphasis on six core philosophies.
 Each of these core philosophies is key to the content and structure of the AYSO soccer
experience and we ask that everyone embrace these philosophies when dealing with our
children.

Key point is that these philosophies are what make AYSO’s programs different from all other
youth sports programs in the country.
Slides #9 - #17 Six Philosophies:
Instructor Note:
Use guided participation to test understanding of the philosophies - (caution –
course may be the first course a volunteer takes so they may not have the understanding of this
information. Ask for just one answer about what each philosophy means to keep the pace moving and
the course on time.)
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
Everyone Plays, 2nd slide on VIP participation – symbolizes that everyone can truly play AYSO
Balanced Teams
Open Registration
Positive Coaching – Note NCACE –National Council of Accreditation of Coaching Education
Good Sportsmanship, 2nd slide on Kids Zone program designed to promote appropriate sideline
behavior and good sportsmanship.
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
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Lesson Plan
Last Revision: 06/06/11
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Player Development – newest philosophy approved at the 2009 NAGM; 2nd slide on EXTRA and
AYSO Soccer Camp programs designed to provide further development opportunities for our
players.
Slide # 18 Volunteer Philosophies?

But what is also important to understand is that the philosophies apply to the volunteers as well.
Everyone should volunteer and participate; Balanced Teamwork makes for a stronger, more diverse
program; Interest and Enthusiasm and Registering are all that’s required of our Volunteers (assuming
they agree to background checks), Good Sportsmanship is modeled and like our players, AYSO
provides volunteers with training to develop their knowledge and comfort with the jobs they’ve assumed.
Slide # 19 About AYSO
AYSO’s Reference Book contains the Governing Documents that support AYSO’s vision and mission:




National Bylaws for the Organization – organizational structure and governance
Rules & Regulations – govern the conduct of games
National Policy Statements
Standard Regional Guidelines – Guidelines and Best Practices for Region Operations –
designed to help ensure that an AYSO program in any one of the nearly 1,000 Regions

across the country provides their community with the same AYSO experience as any other
Region.
Plus other helpful sections on training and certification, financial management, Dispute Resolution
and Due Process, Team Balancing and Community Relations.
The Reference Book should be available to all board members. Ask how many have one? Remind them
they can get one from the supply center. It is also posted online www.ayso.org under governing
documents for quick references.
The AYSO Reference Book provides the answers to the question, “Where does it say…”
Slide # 20 About AYSO
AYSO games are conducted in accordance with the FIFA Laws of the Game.- the world standard for the
rules or laws of soccer. AYSO games are conducted by the same rules as the World Cup games.
Slide # 21 1st Quiz – at 20 minutes in.
• Which of the following is NOT one of the core AYSO philosophies?
a) Balanced Teams
b) Open Registration
c) Paid Coaching
d) Everyone Plays
e) Player Development
The answer is C. Our coaches are all volunteers!
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
8 of 25
Last Revision: 06/06/11
Slide # 22 Volunteer Protection Act
 Passed by Congress in order to promote volunteerism, designed to protect volunteers who in
good faith and with proper knowledge, training are working to help others.
 Volunteers must meet certain criteria in order to qualify for this protection
 The Act forms the foundation for AYSO’s volunteer protection.
Slide # 23 Volunteer Requirements
AYSO requires all volunteers to meet the following criteria in order to provide them with maximum
protection under the Volunteer Protection Act and other applicable laws. These include:
– Sign and submit a Volunteer Application every year,
– Be authorized to do their job,
– Act within the scope of their Job Descriptions and AYSO’s policies, procedures and
guidelines,
– Complete Safe Haven training as provided by this course and
– Be properly trained in their jobs.

Every AYSO volunteer, regardless of how long they’ve been volunteering, is required to meet
the above list of criteria. And it’s not only in the best interest of the organization and local programs,
but it is in their best interest as well. Registering enables Soccer Accident Insurance eligibility as
well.
Slide # 24 Volunteer Screening
AYSO, like most youth organizations, requires background checks and references in order to protect
players, volunteers and Region resources.
Slide # 25 Volunteer Screening
Instructor Note:
Click for headlines to appear (3 times) on the Coach Slide (2) ask attendees
to think about what would happen if the charges were false – falsely accused individuals have
stated that it is sometimes difficult to receive complete exoneration because the shadow of
doubt lingers often with life altering effects.

Are these headlines so out of the ordinary?
Probably not. These headlines can be found in all sports in all cities in all states.
Talk about daily headlines involving youth coaches and inappropriate behavior/relationships, theft of
program funds, violent confrontations, etc.
Slide #26 Volunteer Screening
AYSO’s National Background Check Policy determines whether or not an adult volunteer is eligible to
hold certain AYSO positions based on their background check convictions. These determinations were
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
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Lesson Plan
Last Revision: 06/06/11
made based on the experience of legal professionals and potential risk certain convictions may pose the
AYSO participants.
AYSO places the highest priority on protecting volunteer identities, privacy and confidentiality. Safe
Haven procedures and eAYSO technologies are designed to provide this protection.

The safest, most secure, confidential way to complete a volunteer application is online in eAYSO.
SSN, Driver’s License and Conviction disclosures are only available to the 3 Safe Haven staff members
in the National Office. SSN are encrypted in transmission and when stored in our database.
As indicated on this slide, SSN are absolutely necessary to run Criminal Background Checks.
If the
use of Biometric services or Livescan comes up – it has been investigated as an option. Livescan or
Fingerprinting provides some useful information, but it cannot provide a trace/history of residency. We
are continuing to look at this option.
Slide #27 Youth Volunteers
• Volunteers under the age of 18, must also complete a Youth Volunteer Application every year but
are not screened.
• Should abide by the same protection guidelines when in the company of younger players or
VIP participants.
• Should be protected by the same protection policies as players.

Unfortunately, in approximately 20% of sex abuse cases, the victim is abused by another
minor.
Slide # 28 Youth Volunteers –
 Critical Information
•
May hold: Youth Referee, Youth Team Assistant, Youth VIP Buddy or other
Youth Volunteer positions which are supervised by adults.

May not be a Team Coach, Assistant Coach or Regional Board Member and may never be in a
position of supervising players or managing a game from the coach’s area.
 Reflected in National Policy Statement 2.13 on Youth Volunteers.

Youth Team Assistant is the position/term for youth volunteers who help out at practices with drills
and demonstrations. They can never take the place of an adult in the required supervision
protocols.
Signed copied of the Youth Volunteer application must be in the Youth Volunteer’s
possession during all volunteer activities.
Program:
Safe Haven
AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
Revision10/2012
10 of 25
Last Revision: 06/06/11
Slide # 29 Training and Certification
Training and Certification is the only way to ensure the fulfillment of the AYSO vision and the protection of
Volunteers and Players. It is necessary to create a common understanding of our programs goals and
philosophies as well.
Slide # 30 Training and Certification
Definitions :
Training:
Job and Standard specific training
Certification:
Confirmation of 3 competencies:
- Assigned Position (Job Training),
- Child and Volunteer Protection (Safe Haven), and
- AYSO Polices and Guidelines
Continuing
Education:
Training to improve skills
Examples of Job Training: U6 Coach, Basic Referee, Registrar.
Certification: AYSO’s Safe Haven course provide the Child and Volunteer Protection training
component of the volunteer certification requirements.
Continuing Ed: Principles of Play, Developing a Coaching Program, Recruiting and Retaining
Referees, Care and Feeding of Youth Referees, Developing a Regional Budget, Advanced
Management.
Slide # 31 Training and Certification requirements
• All Coaches, Referees and Board Members are required to be trained and certified
• Practices & Games are NOT Permitted without an AYSO Trained and Certified Team Coach
• Official games are NOT Permitted without an AYSO Trained and Certified Referee above U-8.
Slide # 32 Training and Certification requirements cont.
Regions must have the following seven required Board Positions and the volunteers serving in these
positions, must be trained and certified:
– Regional Commissioner,
– Coach Administrator,
– Referee Administrator,
– Treasurer,
– Registrar,
– Safety Director and
– CVPA

Six of these positions can receive job training by webinar. Each of these positions plays a
vital role in the delivery of the AYSO experience
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
Does your Region have all 7 positions? Ask your Region and check the Reference Book for more
details (and job descriptions). May be you’ll want to volunteer for one?
.
Slide # 33 Quiz #2 30 minutes in.
Which of the following is not a requirement of AYSO volunteers?
A) Completing and Signing a Volunteer Application every year.
B) Fulfilling a continuing education requirement
C) Consenting to background investigations
D) Completing job training.
The answer is B although it is strongly encouraged that everyone keep current.
Slide # 34 Child Protection
• Child Protection legislation facilitated background screening for all individuals who work with
children as well as mandating that suspected abuse be reported.
• Believe it or not, the original legislation was necessary to make Child Abuse against the law.
Slide # 35 Child Abuse is Against the Law
•
•
•
AYSO is a mandated reporter of suspected abuse in many states.
There are legal reporting standards for suspected abuse.
Most states also have a general clause in their laws that asks any adult who suspects abuse
should file a claim…sort of the morally obligated clause. We are either legally required or morally
obligated to file a claim for suspected abuse.
•
In creating a “safe haven”, AYSO prohibits abusive behaviors beyond the legal reporting
standards.
Slide # 36 Reporting Abuse
 Most states require reporting when a child is injured by non-accidental means, subjected to willful
cruelty, sexual abuse or exploitation, or denied basic food, clothing, shelter or medical care by a parent or
guardian.
Most states have penalties for failing to report known abuse.
Slide #37 Types of Abuse
AYSO and others recognize 5 basic types of abuse and abusive behaviors. It is important that everyone
recognizes abusive behavior so that it can be prevented.
Adult supervisors must prevent abuse and recognize that it may occur between
players/minors.
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
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Slide # 38 Emotional Abuse
• The most common; attacking the emotional well being and stability of an individual.
Slide # 39 Emotional Abuse
 Legally required to report Abuses that visibly effects the emotional stability of a child.
• Abusive behaviors not allowed in AYSO include making comments about the size, inability or
appearance of a player in front of others.
• Jokes, even in fun, can be emotionally abusive.
• Derogatory comments and racial, ethnic or gender slurs by adults or children should not be
tolerated.
Slide # 40 Physical Abuse
• The most obvious; harming the physical well being of an individual
Slide # 41 Physical Abuse
• Legally required to report acts resulting in any “non-accidental physical injury to a child” or
circumstances that create a substantial risk or harm.
• Abusive behaviors not allowed in AYSO include punishing players by making them run laps or
denying water.
• Corporal punishment is strictly prohibited
• Player bullying or fighting must not be allowed. AYSO has a zero tolerance policy for violence.
Slide # 42 Neglect
• Not always easy to identify: harming an individual by abandoning, ignoring, or rejecting basic
needs.
Slide # 43 Neglect
• Legally required to report the failure of a parent or guardian to provide needed food, clothing,
shelter, medical care, or supervision.
• Never playing a below average player more than half of every game might be an example of
neglectful behavior in AYSO.
• Consistently leaving a player out of practice drills is also an example of neglect.
• Players should not be allowed to exclude a single player or a few players from team activities.
Slide # 44 Sexual Abuse
• Frequently hidden; harming an individual through inappropriate sexual contact, lewd behavior.
Slide # 45 Sexual Abuse
 Legally required to report any form of sexual abuse or exploitation.
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
Identifier:
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•
•
•
Making lewd comments in front of players or any type of inappropriate touching should be a
concern.
Please contact Safe Haven immediately if any inappropriate behavior or circumstances
raise a concern.
Abuse can occur between two minors.
 These abuses are not just Adult>Child victimizations.
Adult supervision should prevent
opportunities for player-on-player abuses.
Slide # 46 Ethical Abuse
• The newest identified form of abuse; harming an individual by convincing him/her to commit an act
that is against his/her physical, moral, or ethical interests.
Slide # 47 Ethical Abuse
• Asking a player to “take down” an opposing player or feigning an injury are examples of ethically
abusive behaviors.
• Adults should refrain from asking children to keep secrets from their parents…this is a common
pedophile technique.
Slide # 48 Suspecting Abuse
• If abuse is suspected notify the Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA) and the National
Safe Haven office.
• If abuse is considered life threatening contact Child Protective Services or law enforcement
immediately.
• Remember reporting is a means of helping.
• Reporters simply report; Agencies investigate.
Slide # 49 Preventing Abuse
• Screening who volunteers in the AYSO program is just the first step.
• Training volunteers to recognize abuse and abusive behavior is necessary to report and stop
abuse.
• It would all be meaningless unless we implement policies and guidelines to prevent opportunities
for abuse to occur.
• Experts agree that is also important to foster positive self-images, a safe environment and the
courage in our players to speak up. Key- self-esteem helps prevent children from being victims.
Slide #50 What if? 45 mins in.
These are possible scenarios – the key is when and how to intervene:
1) If a player makes a disclosure of abuse, AYSO as a mandated reporter is required to file a report
with Child Protective Services. If this disclosure is before a game or practice, ask if the child is up
to playing. If so, encourage them to continue with activities – provide normalcy and keep the
child’s confidence. DO NOT confront parents. Notify CVPA and Safe Haven as soon as possible.
2) A parent is screaming at his/her child on the field. Someone should intervene, in the least
confrontational manner as possible – using distraction/diversion – try to avoid escalating the
Program:
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
Lesson Plan
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situation as much as possible. Later, let parent know that the behavior negatively affects all
children on the field.
3) Adults should prevent and intervene whenever player bullying is witnessed. Players must
understand that bullying is not tolerated in AYSO.
4) Players should always be supervised and kept within sight until returned to their parents. It is
dangerous for children to be out of sight.
Slide #51 Protection Guidelines
The guidelines are designed to protect children from abuse and volunteers from
misunderstandings and false accusations. Each of them collectively creates a multi-tiered safety
net. It has been said that an adult falsely accused may never be completely exonerated.
Slide # 52 Supervision Protocols
 Following supervision protocols are essential for preventing opportunities for abuse to occur.
AYSO requires the following Supervision:
• One Adult for every 8 or fewer children
• At least 2 Adults present at ALL times
• At least One Adult of the same gender as players
• Adults should never be alone with a child
Slide # 53 Supervision Protocols
 Team Coach is responsible for the players on his/her team until they are picked up by their parents
or otherwise leave the area and previously authorized to do so by parents.
 Parents must not “drop off” children without establishing contact with the coaches to ensure proper
“hand-off” of responsibility.
 No child shall be left unsupervised after a game or practice.

The AYSO “Buddy System” requires a minimum of 3 players whenever children are
allowed to enter a restroom alone, etc. Necessary for preventing player-on-player abuse.
NEW!!!
Slide # 54 Supervision Protocols
AYSO does recommend that children walk or ride a bicycle home alone.
However, if it is
necessary, the Coach should secure a release form from the parent/guardian to ensure their
approval.. The release form is available on www.ayso.org.
Slide # 55 Protection Guidelines
 Protection Guidelines along with Supervision Protocols can prevent misunderstandings and
again, prevent opportunities for abuse.
Physical contact with children should be:
– In Response to the need of the child only
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–
–
–
–
–
–
With the child’s permission
Respectful of any resistance or hesitation
Careful to avoid private parts
In the Open, Never In Private
Brief in duration
Age and developmentally appropriate
Slide # 56 Protection Guidelines cont
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Adults should avoid being alone with a child including transporting a child in a car.
When it is necessary to speak privately with a child, select a spot out of earshot but within sight of
others.
Respect the privacy of children.
Hug From the Side.
No Sexual Jokes, Comments, etc.
No Corporal Punishment.
Set Boundaries and maintain adult privacy.
Slide # 57 Protection Guidelines NEW! Social Media and Electronic Communications standards.
The same Safe Haven principles for communications and interactions on the field are applied to
electronic communications.
 Adults should maintain transparency in their communications with minors.



Messages should always be conveyed through parents or at least copied to parents.
Adults should not engage in private electronic messages or conversations with minors.
Identities of minors must be protected from those individuals surfing the internet to gain familiarity
with potential victims and who may intend to cause harm.
Slide # 58 Protection Guidelines Controlled Substances
• It is illegal for minors to possess, control or use alcohol, tobacco products or prescription-only
drugs without authority and may subject them to prosecution.
• Any adult who knowingly provides such substances to a minor is subject to criminal prosecution.
• The Volunteer Protection Act does not protect adults who violate alcohol, tobacco and drug laws.
Slide # 59 Quiz… 60 mins in…
Which of the following is not true?
a) AYSO is a mandated reporter of abuse in most states.
b) Adults should set and maintain appropriate boundaries with children.
c) AYSO recommends that adults “friend” minors on Facebook.
d) Social bullying is an example of abusive behavior not tolerated in AYSO.
The answer is c) it exposes adult postings to children and may not be appropriate. Reminder: Public and
Private take on a whole new meaning on social media sites.
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Slide # 60 Play it Safe
It is the responsibility of all participants to work together to minimize the risk of injuries and to create a
safe environment.
Slide #61 Emergency Medical Conditions
 The primary role of all volunteers is one of injury prevention and first aid
 Important to recognize the symptoms of potentially serious emergency conditions so that
emergency medical professionals are summoned to prevent more serious injury.
Slide #62 Emergency Medical Conditions
The purpose the following slides is to make sure everyone recognizes the most serious of
medical conditions and warning signs so that emergency medical services are summoned
immediately. Some precautionary steps are mentioned to give everyone a general idea of the
kinds of first aid treatment/skills they should seek training for.
It is recommended that Regions offer First Aid training to its volunteers. This is not a first-aid
course.
Slide #63 Bleeding
 When it can’t be stopped, call for Emergency Medical Assistance immediately.
 Using bandages and gloved hands, apply pressure to stop bleeding, adding additional bandages
as necessary.
 For bleeding in extremities, apply pressure to either the brachial artery in the upper arm or the
femoral artery in the crease between the leg and torso.
 Cover the victim to prevent shock.
Slide #64 Bleeding cont
 Any player or official who is bleeding must leave the field and may not return until the bleeding is
stopped; the wound is cleaned and covered.
 If there is blood on the uniform, that portion of clothing must be replaced or the blood must be
neutralized.
Slide #65 Biohazard

Bloody materials are a biohazard and must be disposed of properly. Consult local authorities for
proper disposal (at a minimum place in sealed plastic bags).
Slide #66 Difficulty Breathing
 If due to an allergic reaction, call 911 immediately.
 Try to calm individual, help to position of comfort.
 Do not move a person if there has been a chest or airway injury unless absolutely necessary.
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Do not place a pillow under head if lying down.
If necessary, begin rescue breathing (CPR) if trained to do so.
Slide #67 Loss of Consciousness or fainting
• For fainting, help the person to lying down position. Summon medical help if they do not regain
consciousness within a minute.
• If due to head, neck or spine injury, do not move.
• Check airway, breathing, circulation. Start CPR if necessary and trained to do so.
• Stay calm and wait for emergency help to arrive.
Slide # 68 Heat Related Illness- HRI
• There are 3 main types of HRI: heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• When the body cannot cool itself, the body temperature can rise rapidly risking damage to the
brain and other vital organs.
• Anyone can experience HRI and untreated, HRI can cause death.
Slide # 69 Heat Cramps
• Several factors can make someone susceptible to HRI in hot weather: previous HRI, high humidity,
sunburn, dehydration, poor circulation, illness, drugs and medications.
• Heat cramps are muscle pain or spasms in the abdomen, arms or legs after strenuous activity.
• Sweating depletes the body of salt and moisture. Low salt levels in muscles can cause the cramps.
Slide # 70 Heat Exhaustion
• Symptoms may include headache, feeling faint or dizzy, nausea, fatigue, heat cramps. Individual
feels cool, clammy and damp to touch.
• Move to cool area and shield from sun or heat. If alert, give small sips of cool liquids.
• Loosen restrictive clothing, apply cool cloth to skin or spray with cool water/mist. Immerse in
cool/ice water or apply ice to neck, armpit & groin areas.
• It is important to intervene at this stage to avoid the critical condition of heat stroke.
Slide #71 Heat Stroke
• Individual feels hot and dry to touch, may no longer perspire.
• If body temperature rises above102 degrees, fainting, confusion or seizures can occur.
• Summon professional medical help immediately and follow procedures to cool the person rapidly.
• A medical clearance should be required before returning to any type of exercise after HRI.
Slide #72 Hypothermia
• Does not require sub-zero temperatures.
• Can occur with high winds, rain, snowfall or under-dressing for weather.
• Early signs include: shivering, bluish tinge to lips.
• Advanced symptoms include uncontrollable shivering, weakness, loss of coordination, slowed
breathing or heart rate, and pale, blue, cold skin.
Slide #73 Hypothermia
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Call 911 for advanced symptoms.
Prevent further heat loss; seek shelter from wind and cold.
Gently change wet clothing and provide warmth.
Do not rub extremities.
Slide #74 Concussions
Many states have enacted legislation mandating Concussion Awareness Training for Coaches
because:
• Concussions are serious brain injuries that can cause death.
• Coaches and parents should watch for 2 things among athletes:
– A forceful blow to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the head
– Any change in the athlete’s behavior, thinking or physical functioning.
The old notion of toughing out a concussion must be changed.
No one should “tough out” a
concussion. The risk of permanent, life altering injury is too great.
Slide #75 Concussions
• Every parent and player should review the Information Sheet.
• Every Coach should have the Action Plan.
• Every Coach, Referee, Board Member should take the online concussion awareness training at:
http://www.aysotraining.org
Pass of AYSO/CDC Concussion Information Sheet and Coach’s Action Plan
Slide #76 Concussion Signs and Symptoms
• Forgets sports plays
• Unsure of game, score, etc.
• Moves clumsily
• Answers questions slowly
• Loses consciousness
• Shows behavior or personality changes
• Can’t recall events
• Headache or pressure
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Double or blurry vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, or groggy
• Concentration/Memory problems
• Confusion; Doesn’t feel right
Slide #77 Concussions
• Any player observed to have a sign or symptom of a concussion by the coach, referee or parent,
must be removed from participation for at least the remainder of the day.
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
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Inform parents of events, symptoms and encourage seeking professional medical care and a
medical clearance before returning to play.
Slide #78 Participation Release Forms
All players must have a signed Participation Release Form after any illness or injury requiring medical
treatment and a Medical Release (when required by state law for concussions) in order to return to play.
Slide # 79 First Aid Kits
A basic first-aid kit should be available to each team during all practices and games and should include:
• Adhesive bandage strips (10 each)
• Adhesive bandage (3 large and 3 medium)
• Antiseptic wipes (5 each)
• Cotton balls or 2X2 gauze (10 each)
• Elastic wrap (2 each)
• First-aid cream
• Non-latex gloves (2 pair)
• Mouth rescue breather (1 each)
• Ice (lots of it) / Ice pack
Slide #80 Emergency Authorizations
• Coaches must have signed Player Registration Forms and any other required emergency
authorization form on hand at all practices and games.
• Youth Volunteers must carry a signed copy of their Youth Volunteer Application and any additional
required emergency authorization form with them while conducting their AYSO volunteer duties.
Slide #81 Quiz? 90 mins in.
A player suspected of having a concussion:
a) Must be removed from play and evaluated for symptoms.
b) Should not be allowed to return to play if any symptom(s) are present.
c) Should be encouraged to seek professional medical care and medical release before
returning to play.
d) All of the above.
The answer is D-all of the above – bears repeating….
Slide #82 Environmental Hazards
AYSO officials have the responsibility to be aware of potential environmental conditions that pose
hazards to its participants. These conditions include:
Public announcements and recommendations for these conditions should take precedence over
published general safety guidelines.
Cancel Activities (games) if necessary for safety!
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
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Slide #83 Hot Weather
• Temperatures/humidity rising above normal increases risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat
stroke.
• Allow more frequent water breaks and substitutions; Notify players/volunteers 24 hours in advance
about the importance of hydration.
• Remind participants of the importance of sunscreen and consider adding shade via tents.
• Whenever possible, schedule games outside the hottest part of the day. Allow for at least two hours
between games and only two games per day for players.
Slide #84 Wildfires
– Follow recommendations of local officials regarding safety and proximity to fire.
– Monitor air quality restrictions.
– Ash and particles in the air can cause significant health and respiratory problems.
Slide #85 Cold Weather
– Cold temperatures increase risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and injury from numbness.
– Freezing rain, hail, snow, sleet or heavy rain can also cause field conditions to deteriorate rapidly,
increasing risk of injury.
– Consider cancelling games if the weather is cold enough to adversely affect participants.
– Players should be permitted to wear appropriate and safe clothing (extra garments under the
jersey/shorts, knit hats and gloves, etc.).
Slide #86 Tornados/Hurricanes
– Upon notification of a tornado/hurricane/tsunami warning, all activities should be cancelled until
weather and field conditions are safe.
– Look out for dark, often greenish skies(tornados), and a wall cloud, large hail and loud roar similar
to a freight train.
– Seek shelter immediately.
– Hurricanes are usually tracked days in advance. Cancel activities when hurricanes are eminent.
Slide #87 Lightning
– Every AYSO event should have a lightning safety plan.
– Lightning can strike as far as 10 miles from where it is raining.
– When thunder is heard it is within striking distance – seek shelter immediately.
– Restart games after no thunder has been heard for 30 minutes or the ALL CLEAR SIREN has
been sounded.
National Policy Statement 2.15 – Severe Weather Thunder/Lightning
Slide #88 Lightning – Seeking Shelter
• Safer Areas
– Inside a fully enclosed metal vehicle with windows up
– Inside a substantial building (roof and four walls)
• Unsafe Areas
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– Open areas like playing fields or parking lots.
– Picnic shelters, near Concession stands, under trees.
– Near flagpoles, goals, metal bleachers, electric equipment.
Open Area without shelter
– Avoid standing in groups; spread out to reduce risk.
– Avoid being the tallest object; Avoid lying on the ground.
– Crouch on feet, keep head low.
Slide #89 Environmental Hazards
Take a moment at the beginning of activities to assess potential physical hazards which may
include:
• Goalposts, nets, crossbars
• Field position too close to buildings, fences, structures.
• Seating areas should allow room for the Assist Referees to run the touchlines and for a player’s
momentum to carry them across the touchline.
• Before each game, check for debris left behind like bottles, cans, rocks, paper, trash.
• Sprinklers, grates
• Gopher holes, divots, bumps can also cause injury.
Slide #90 Goalpost Safety
• Goalpost accidents kill at least one child and injure hundreds annually.
• Goals must be anchored and staked when in use.
• Without counter-weights, the sturdiest of goalposts can be blown over by a gust of wind.
• Children should never be allowed to climb or play on goalposts.
• When not in use, goalpost should be dismantled and/or stored securely.
Slide #91 Quiz 100 mins in
When seeking shelter from lightning which statement is not true:
a) It is safest inside a building with a roof and four walls.
b) It is safer inside a metal vehicle with windows up.
c) Avoid being the tallest object and seek shelter under the tree.
d) When thunder is heard, lightning may strike.
The answer is C (avoid being the tallest object but do not seek shelter under a tree)
Slide #92 AYSO Volunteers – The final module
What does it mean to be an AYSO Volunteer?
You are entrusted with the AYSO Vision
The purpose of this section is to ask for everyone’s cooperation to role model the kinds of
behavior to create the sportsmanship environment essential to a quality youth sports experience.
We want every volunteer to be a role model for sportsmanship and for fostering positive selfimages in our children.
Program:
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
Identifier:
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Slide #93 Role Models
The messages we send by our behavior to impressionable young players are so important.
Players emulate the behavior of adults at sporting events and develop long lasting attitudes and values
based on what they see.
Willing or not, we are role models and we must do our best to set proper examples.
Slide # 94 Kids Zone
Every AYSO venue should be a kids zone!
Kids Zone guidelines encourage appropriate sideline behavior – key to promoting a fun, safe, familyfriendly environment.
Parents and Spectators pledge to respect the tenets of Kids Zone.
Coaches, Referees, Parents and Players abide by a Code of Conduct.
 Ask participants how many belong to Regions with an active Kids Zone presence?
Instructor Note:
Pass out codes of conduct handout – available in A Parent’s Guide to
AYSO.
Slide # 95 Kids Zone – Sideline Tenets
• Kids are # 1
• Fun, not winning is everything
• Fans only cheer, only coaches coach
• No yelling
• Respect the volunteer referees
• No swearing
• No Alcohol, Tobacco Products including Chewing Tobacco or Drugs
• No weapons even in Open Carry states.
• Leave no trash behind
• Set a proper example of Good Sportsmanship
Slide #96 Role Models
AYSO asks Volunteers to support the following
principles designed to provide children with the maximum benefit from participating in youth sports
Slide #97 Create an environment that enriches children’s lives:
– Athletics should develop the whole child.
– Treat children as individuals.
– Treat players in an age-appropriate manner.
– Develop positive feelings of self-worth.
– Enjoyment is critical to learning.
– Provide honest, positive encouragement.
– The objective of the game is to win, but the goal is ENJOYMENT!
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
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Last Revision: 06/06/11
– Support the AYSO Team of officials, coaches, referees, and spectators.
Slide #98 Promote the benefits of soccer and sport because soccer:
– Contributes to physical well-being
– Builds confidence and self-esteem
– Promotes teamwork
– Fosters cooperation
– Encourages friendships
– Promotes physical fitness
Slide #99 While performing volunteer duties, remember the reasons kids play sports:
– To have fun
– To improve skills
– To learn new skills
– For the excitement of competition
– To be with friends and make new friends
– To enjoy the success and recognition associated with sport
Slide #100 Model and promote good sportsmanship:
– Demonstrate that winning is not the most important thing in sport. Character is just as important.
– Model how to win and lose graciously.
– Stress playing hard to win (rather than winning itself) and why it is important.
– Instill respect for teammates and opposing teams.
– Develop respect for coaches and referees.
– Encourage good behavior on and off the field.
– Stress that foul or abusive language will not be tolerated.
Slide #101 Model ethical conduct:
– Maintain emotional control and demonstrate respect for athletes, officials, coaches and others.
– Exhibit self-control, self-discipline at all times.
– Recognize the effect your behavior has on the players, coaches, officials and spectators.
– Be positive, courteous and considerate.
– Understand the Laws of the Game to minimize conflicts and maximize enjoyment.
– Understand that respect and positive regard for others are essential for a quality sports
experience.
Slide #102 Foster a “safe” learning environment:
– Encourage self-confidence and self-esteem.
– Show acceptance.
– React positively to mistakes.
– Give encouragement.
– Model appropriate interactions with others.
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AYSO’s Safe Haven
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Last Revision: 06/06/11
– Use positive instructional methods including specific feedback, encouragement and constructive
criticism.
– Emphasize the importance of enjoying practice and games.
– Set achievable player and team goals at practices and games which encourage both personal and
group goals.
Slide #103 Participate in continuing education:
– Stay updated on the following:
– Rule changes – AYSO, FIFA.
– Equipment improvements.
– Philosophical changes.
– Improved techniques to enhance health, safety and success of players and participants.
– Attend Regional meetings and training courses.
– Maintain records of completed training.
Slide #104 Do not tolerate abusive behavior.
– Document and report any misconduct.
– Regional Boards should address any abuses, provide training and awareness, and if necessary
take additional actions under the guidelines of Dispute Resolution and Due Process.
– If bad conduct becomes threatening or violent, contact the AYSO National Office immediately.
 AYSO Reference Book, Standard Regional Guidelines, Article 9 and Chapter 8, Regional
Operations, Due Process cover policies and procedures for Dispute Resolution and Due Process.
Slide # 105 AYSO Incident Reports
An Incident Report is required whenever there is a serious incident involving AYSO participants,
activities, facilities, or property including:
• Injuries
• Threats of bodily harm
• Fighting
• Property damage
• Hospitalizations
• Law Enforcement
• Lawsuits
Slide # 106 Remember, It’s for the Kids! And Great Soccer Starts here.
Slide # 107 Conclusion
Thank you everyone for volunteering to bring a quality youth soccer program to their community and for
supporting the AYSO philosophies: Everyone Plays® Balanced Teams Open Registration
Positive Coaching Good Sportsmanship Player Development
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Instructor Note:
120 mins. Pass out Certification Tests and record passing scores. Students
must score 24 correct answers out of 30 to pass.