As the leader of a group of young athletes, every coach needs to be prepared for the unexpected during football practice. This short guide helps coaches recognize deficiencies in their planning and take steps to always be prepared.
Take Inventory The first step to being prepared for the unexpected is to take inventory of what you and your staff know, and what you have. Coaches should ask themselves the following questions:Do we know each player's medical history, including allergies?Do we know how to contact each player's designated emergency contact?Do we have a plan for dealing with the natural disasters common to our area?Do we have an efficient method in place for quickly contacting parents and guardians of the entire team in case of a change of plans or emergency?Do we have a first-aid kit readily available during all practices?
If the answers to any of these questions are "no," it's probably time to step back and look at some worst-case scenarios. Even coaches who think they are prepared should look at this step-by-step system to make sure they haven't forgotten anything.
Step 1 - Build a medical file on each athlete If you did not already collect this information during the enrollment period for the team, begin collecting it now. Use the standard medical information and release form from your program, or search for generic forms online. Each athlete's medical history should not be considered complete without these elements:
- Athlete's full name and date of birthAny known allergiesAny medication the player is currently takingAn emergency contact name and phone numberA preferred hospital (optional)A brief medical history - any recent surgeries, serious illnesses, hospitalizations, etcA medical consent form from the parent or guardian allowing the coaching staff to determine if the player needs immediate medical care and authorizing them to get the athlete help
This medical file should be present at all events, including practices. It is best kept in a water-resistant protective sleeve or binder. Someone on the coaching staff should be responsible for the whereabouts of the file at all times.
Step 2 - Create a First-Aid Kit A first-aid kit should be easily reached during any football practice. Coaches can buy an already-stocked kit, or they can build their own. Every month, coaches should review the contents of the kit and replenish anything that has been used. Contents of a kit generally include:Adhesive strip bandages - assorted sizesAdhesive tapeAlcohol wipesAntibiotic ointmentChemical ice packsChemical hot packsCotton ballsCotton swabsDisposable latex or Plastic Gloves aid guideFlashlightGauze pads - various sizesOver-the-counter pain medication [aspirin]Roller gauze - self adheringSafety pinsScissorsSpace blanketTweezersWaterproof tape
Step 3 - Create a contact plan The final step to being prepared is to create a contact plan for parents and guardians in the event of an emergency. This generally takes place as a phone tree, but could also include a Twitter address for parents to follow, a mass text message, or a post to a social networking site with more information. The key is to ensure that all parents and guardians get the information as quickly as possible.
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