Injuries and Kids

Whenever kids are in motion, there is always the potential for injury. While bumps and bruises are part of growing up, AYSO works very hard to train all volunteers to recognize unsafe conditions and anticipate unsafe behavior. Indeed, SAFE, Fair and Fun are the three tenets of AYSO play.

Unfortunately, incidents do happen. And when they do, we have very specific policies and procedures for caring for the injured player, documenting the situation, filing medical insurance claims if necessary, and ensuring that the player is properly recovered before they return to active play.

Minor Injuries or Accidents

Minor injuries such as bruises and twisted ankles that improve overnight and allow returning to normal activity the next day do not need to be reported. Parents should take whatever precautions they deem appropriate before allowing the player to return to active play.

Injuries While Involved in AYSO Practices or Games that Require Medical Attention

A player's Registration Form serves as emergency treatment authorization if necessary

The coach should limit his/her activity to basic first aid procedures

If additional medical attention is required, 911 should be called

The coach must be able to tell emergency personnel his/her location at all times

An Incident Report must be filed

Reporting an Injury or Incident

The coach must report the incident to their Division Manager and the Regional Safety Director within 24 hours via phone or email

The coach must complete an INCIDENT REPORT FORM within 24 hours and submit it to:

AYSO Region 889
Attn: Regional Safety Director
26895 Aliso Creek Road, Suite B196
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

Medical Claims

Upon receipt of the INCIDENT REPORT FORM, the Regional Safety Director will provide the family with the appropriate information to initiate a Soccer Accident Insurance (SAI) claim. The Regional Safety Director will assist in verifying the player eligibility for coverage. It is the responsibility of the parents or guardian (in the case of a player who is a minor) or of the adult involved to follow the procedures of the carrier providing SAI coverage.

Participation Release

If the accident or injury required medical attention, in order for the injured party to be eligible to return to practices and games, the player's parent or guardian, or the injured adult, as well as their physician MUST complete the PARTICIPATION RELEASE form and return it to the Regional Safety Director at the address above. Upon receipt and acceptance by the Regional Safety Director, the appropriate Division Manager will be notified.