AYSO’s Safe Haven Workshop Title

Course Credit Please sign the Course Roster. Include your legal name, home address, phone number and date of birth.

Introduction Every child participating in an AYSO soccer program has a right to a safe, fun, fair and positive environment for experiencing the benefits of youth sports.

What is Safe Haven? AYSO’s program to address the growing need for Child and Volunteer Protection in youth sports. Creates a safe, fair, fun, family friendly environment - “safe haven” - for all.

Creating a Safe Haven The Safe Haven program supports the creation of a “safe haven” for all participants by: Registering and Screening all Volunteers Requiring Training and Certification Providing Child and Volunteer Protection Guidelines Promoting Safety and Injury Prevention

Course Overview Vision of AYSO Creating a Safe Haven Volunteer Requirements Training and Certification Child and Volunteer Protection Safety and Injury Prevention Volunteering in AYSO

Why AYSO? The Vision of AYSO is to provide world class youth soccer programs that enrich children’s lives.

What makes AYSO unique? The philosophy of the organization is to educate and develop young people by encouraging their interest and participation in soccer through our six philosophies:

Everyone Plays Our goal is for kids to play soccer – so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least half of every game.

Everyone Plays This includes our VIP-Very Important Players

Balanced Teams Each year we form new teams as evenly as possible – because it is fair and more fun when teams of equal ability play.

Open Registration Our program is open to all children between 4 and 19 years of age who want to register and play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing.

Positive Coaching Encouragement of player effort provides for greater enjoyment by the players and ultimately leads to better-skilled and better-motivated players.

Good Sportsmanship We strive to create a safe, fair, fun and positive environment based on mutual respect, rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude, and our goal is to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO.

Good Sportsmanship AYSO’s Kids Zone program is one of the first of its kind to promote good sportsmanship and appropriate sideline behavior. Every AYSO venue is a Kids Zone!

Player Development We believe that all players should be able to develop their soccer skills and knowledge to the best of their abilities, both individually and as a member of a team, in order to maximize their enjoyment of the game.

Player Development AYSO provides a number of programs that support player development including EXTRA and AYSO Soccer Camps.

Volunteer Philosophies? AYSO’s philosophies apply to volunteers too!

About AYSO AYSO’s governing documents support the vision and philosophies and are found in the AYSO Reference Book: National Bylaws Organizational structure & governance Rules and Regulations Conduct of AYSO Games National Policy Statements AYSO Policy Standard Regional Guidelines Regional Responsibilities

About AYSO The rules or “laws” of soccer are governed by FIFA – Federation Internationale de Football Association. AYSO games are conducted in accordance with the current edition of the FIFA Laws of the Game – with approved AYSO exceptions.

Quiz Which of the following is NOT one of the core AYSO philosophies? Balanced Teams Open Registration Paid Coaching Everyone Plays Player Development

Volunteer Protection Congress passed the Volunteer Protection Act in 1997 to promote volunteerism and grant immunity from certain liabilities for volunteers who meet its requirements.

Volunteer Requirements For protection under the Volunteer Protection Act and applicable laws, AYSO requires all volunteers to: 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 and Be properly trained in their jobs.

Volunteer Screening AYSO, like many youth organizations today, asks adult volunteers to submit character references and agree to background checks in order to protect players, volunteers and Region resources.

“Youth sports treasurer accused of embezzlement; Corona man has been charged with embezzling $100,000 from a youth sports program that receives money from the city.” Volunteer Screening “Montgomery County police arrested a longtime soccer coach on Thursday and charged him with inappropriate contact with a juvenile six months ago.” “South Dakota (Soccer) — A 42 year-old adult man strikes the soccer referee, who happened to also be the town’s mayor, during a match between 11-year-old girls. The coach was sentenced to one year in jail, required to attend anger management courses and banned from all youth sports events for a year.”

Volunteer Screening The Volunteer Application contains the consent agreement for background investigations. AYSO’s National Background Check Policy is used to determine whether an adult volunteer is eligible to hold AYSO positions. Safe Haven procedures and eAYSO technologies protect personal identification information, privacy and confidentiality. See www.ayso.org.

Youth Volunteers Under the age of majority, must complete a Youth Volunteer Application every year. 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.

Youth Volunteers 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. National Policy Statement 2.15.

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.

Training and Certification Training provides job position and standard specific training such as U-6 Coach, Intermediate Referee or Registrar training. Certification requires competency in the assigned position (job training), Child and Volunteer Protection (Safe Haven training) and AYSO Policies and Guidelines. Continuing Education includes training to improve skills like Principles of Play, Dispute Resolution and Problems Outside the Touchline.

Training and Certification All Coaches, Referees and Board Members are required to be trained and certified. Practices and Games are NOT permitted without an AYSO trained and certified Team Coach. Official games are NOT permitted without an AYSO trained and certified Referee for the U-8 division and above.

Training and Certification Regions must have the 7 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 Child and Volunteer Protection Advocate (CVPA).

Quiz Which of the following is not a requirement of AYSO volunteers? Completing and signing a Volunteer Application every year. Fulfilling a continuing education requirement. Consenting to background investigations. Completing job training.

Child Protection The Child Protection Acts (1993,1997) enabled screening of volunteers who work with children and mandated reporting of suspected child abuse.

Child Abuse is Against the Law AYSO is a mandated reporter of suspected abuse in many states – there are legal reporting standards. In almost all states, legislation asks any adult who suspects abuse to file a claim. In order to promote a safe haven, AYSO prohibits abusive behaviors beyond the legal reporting standards.

Reporting Abuse Reporting is generally required when a child is: physically injured by other than accidental means, subjected to willful cruelty or unjustifiable punishment, or sexually abused or exploited. neglected by a parent or caretaker who fails to provide adequate food, clothing, shelter, medical care or supervision.

Types of Abuse Psychologists, legislators, educators and AYSO recognize five types of abuse. It is important to understand the types of abusive behaviors in order to ensure their prevention. Child abuse crosses all socioeconomic, ethnic, cultural, occupational, religious and age groups. Recognize that abuses can occur between players.

Emotional Abuse The most common: attacking the emotional well being and stability of an individual.

Emotional Abuse Legally required to report suspected abuses visibly affecting the emotional stability of the 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. Social bullying, derogatory comments and racial, ethnic or gender slurs must not be tolerated.

Physical Abuse The most obvious: harming the physical well being of an individual.

Physical Abuse Legally required to report acts resulting in a non-accidental physical injury to a child or circumstances that create a substantial risk of harm. Abusive behaviors not allowed in AYSO include corporal punishment, punishing players by making them run laps or denying water, bullying, fighting. AYSO has a zero tolerance policy for violence.

Neglect Not always easy to identify: harming an individual by abandoning, ignoring, or rejecting basic needs.

Neglect Legally required to report the failure of a parent or guardian to provide needed food, clothing, shelter, medical care, or supervision. AYSO does not allow neglectful behavior including never playing a below average player more than half of every game or consistently excluding a player from practice drills. Players should not be allowed to exclude player(s) from team activities.

Sexual Abuse Frequently hidden: harming an individual through inappropriate sexual contact, lewd behavior, or exploitation.

Sexual Abuse Legally required to report any form of sexual abuse or exploitation. AYSO prohibits lewd comments, sexual harassment or any inappropriate physical contact. Minors must be supervised to prevent minor-on-minor abuse. 20% of reported cases involve minors. Contact Safe Haven asap. 1-800-USA-AYSO.

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.

Ethical Abuse Abusive behaviors not allowed include asking a player to “take down” an opposing player or faking an injury. Adults should refrain from asking children to keep “secrets” from parents.

Suspecting Abuse If abuse is suspected, notify your CVPA and the National Safe Haven Office. 1-800-USA-AYSO. If the abuse is considered life threatening, contact local law enforcement immediately. Remember reporting is a means of helping; let professional agencies investigate. Do not confront alleged abuser. Youth volunteers should be encouraged to inform an adult if told a “secret” about abuse.

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, stop it. It would all be meaningless unless policies and guidelines are used to prevent opportunities for abuse to occur. Experts agree that is important to foster positive self-images, a safe environment and the courage in our players to speak up.

What if? A player confides to a coach that someone is abusing him/her. A parent is screaming at his/her child on the field and strikes the child. Players are bullying one of their teammates. At the end of practice, players scatter around the field while waiting for their parents, some out of sight.

Protection Guidelines Safe Haven’s Child and Volunteer Protection Guidelines are designed to protect children from abuse and volunteers from misunderstandings and false accusations.

Supervision Protocols AYSO requires the following Supervision: At least two adults present at ALL times. One adult for every eight or fewer children. At least one adult of the same gender as players. Adults should never be alone with a child.

Supervision Protocols Team Coaches are responsible for all players until they are picked up or leave the area as authorized. Parents must not “drop” players off at fields without contact with coaches. No child shall be left unsupervised after a game or practice. The AYSO “Buddy” system must have at least 3 players.

Supervision Protocols AYSO does not recommend that children walk or ride a bicycle home alone. However, when allowed, the Coach should secure a release form from the parent/guardian to ensure their approval.

Protection Guidelines In order to prevent misunderstandings, physical contact with children should be: In response to the need of the child only With the child’s permission Respectful of any hesitation Careful to avoid private parts In the open, never in private Brief in duration Age and developmentally appropriate

Protection Guidelines Adults should avoid being alone with any child other than their own, 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. Set boundaries; Maintain privacy. Respect the privacy of children. Hug from the side. No sexual jokes, comments, corporal punishment.

Protection GuidelinesSocial Media & Electronic Communications Volunteers should maintain transparency and not engage in private electronic messages or conversations with minors. Messages should be conveyed through parents or in the case of older players, copied to parents. This includes emails, text messages, instant messaging and postings on social networking sites. Protect the identity and privacy of children at all times. Do not post names of players with pictures or rosters on public pages.

Protection Guidelines It is illegal for minors to possess 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 law

Quiz Which of the following is not true? AYSO is a mandated reporter of abuse in most states. Adults should set and maintain appropriate boundaries with children. AYSO recommends that adults “friend” minors on Facebook. Social bullying is an example of abusive behavior not tolerated in AYSO.

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.

Emergency Medical Conditions The primary role of all volunteers is one of injury prevention and first aid, not diagnosis or treatment of injuries. It is important for everyone to recognize the symptoms of potentially serious medical emergencies and to know when to summon emergency medical professionals.

Emergency Medical Conditions The following are a some of the most critical emergency medical conditions: Bleeding Difficulty Breathing Choking Loss of Consciousness Heat-Related Illness Hypothermia Concussions ***Consult First Aid training for specific instructions.***

Emergency Medical Conditions Bleeding Can’t be stopped; call for medical assistance asap. Apply pressure directly to bandage over the wound with gloved hand. If bandages becomes soaked, continue to add clean bandages on top. For extremities, apply pressure to brachial artery inside upper arm between armpit and elbow or to femoral artery located on crease between leg and torso.

Emergency Medical Conditions Bleeding Any player or official who is bleeding must leave the field immediately and may not return until the bleeding is stopped, the wound is cleaned and covered. If there is blood on the uniform or clothing, the individual may not return until that portion of uniform is replaced or the blood is neutralized with an antiseptic solution.

Emergency Medical Conditions Bleeding Clean up a blood spill with absorbent paper towels and flood spot with a solution of ¼ cup bleach to a gallon of water. Dispose of any blood stained materials in a biohazard container or tightly sealed plastic bags, using gloves and disinfecting solutions. See appropriate local authority for disposal of biohazards.

Emergency Medical Conditions Difficulty Breathing If due to an allergic reaction, call 911 immediately. Try to calm individual, help to position of comfort. If a person is down from an injury to chest or airway, do not move unless absolutely necessary. Do not place a pillow under head if lying down. If necessary, begin rescue breathing (CPR).

Emergency Medical Conditions Loss of Consciousness or Fainting For fainting, help person to lying down position. Summon medical help if they do not regain consciousness within a minute. If unconscious due to head, neck or spine injury, do not move. Check airway, breathing, circulation. Start CPR if necessary. Stay calm and wait for emergency help to arrive.

Emergency Medical Conditions Heat-Related Illness There are 3 main types of Heat-Related Illness (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.

Emergency Medical Conditions Heat Cramps Several factors make someone susceptible to HRI: previous HRI, hot weather, 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.

Emergency Medical Conditions 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.

Emergency Medical Conditions 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.

Emergency Medical Conditions 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.

Emergency Medical Conditions Hypothermia Call 911 for advanced symptoms. Prevent further heat loss; seek shelter from wind and cold. Gently change wet clothing and provide warmth with blankets, cover head. Do not rub extremities. Apply warmth to core body.

Emergency Medical Conditions Concussions Concussions are serious brain injuries that can cause death. Coaches and parents should watch for two 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.

Emergency Medical Conditions Concussions Every parent and player should review the Information Sheet. Every Coach, Referee, Board Member should take the online concussion awareness Training. Every Coach should have the Action Plan.

Emergency Medical Conditions Symptoms 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 Concussions Signs Forgets sports plays Unsure of game, score, etc. Moves clumsily Answers questions slowly Loses consciousness Shows behavior or personality changes Can’t recall events

Emergency Medical Conditions Concussions - Seek immediate medical attention for: One pupil larger than the other Drowsiness or inability to wake up A headache that gets worse and won’t go away Weakness, numbness or decreased coordination Repeated vomiting or nausea Slurred speech Convulsions or seizures Unusual behavior, confusion, restlessness or agitation Loss of consciousness

Emergency Medical Conditions 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. Inform parents of events, symptoms and encourage seeking professional medical care and a medical clearance before returning to play. May be required by State Law. In all cases, complete an Incident Report Form.

Emergency Medical Conditions 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.

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

Emergency Authorization Coaches must have hand-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.

Quiz A player suspected of having a concussion: Must be removed from play and evaluated for symptoms. Should not be allowed to return to play if any symptom(s) are present. Should be encouraged to seek professional medical care and medical release before returning to play. All of the above.

Environmental Hazards AYSO officials have the responsibility to be aware of environmental conditions that may pose hazards to its participants. These conditions include: Local public announcements should take precedence over general published safety guidelines. Hot DaysCold Days Lightning Tornados Wildfires Hurricanes

Environmental Hazards Hot Weather Temperatures/humidity rising above normal increases risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Allow more frequent water breaks and substitutions; Remind participants of the importance of sunscreen and consider adding shade via tents.

Environmental Hazards 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.

Environmental Hazards Cold Weather Cold temperatures increase risk of hypothermia, frostbite, and injury from numbness. Rain, hail, snow, sleet can also cause field conditions to deteriorate rapidly, increasing risk of injury. Players should be permitted to wear appropriate and safe clothing (extra garments under the jersey/shorts, knit hats and gloves, etc.).

Environmental Hazards Tornados/Hurricanes Upon notification of a tornado/hurricane/tsunami warning, all activities should be cancelled until weather and field conditions are safe. Hurricanes are usually tracked days in advance. Cancel activities when hurricanes are imminent.

Environmental Hazards Lightning 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.

Environmental Hazards Lightning Safer Areas Inside a substantial building (roof and four walls) Inside a fully enclosed metal vehicle with windows up Unsafe Areas 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.

Environmental Hazards Take a moment at the beginning of activities to assess potential physical hazards which may include: Goalposts, Crossbars, nets. Foreign Objects: Broken glass, rocks, trash. Walls, fences, buildings near practice/game fields Sprinklers, Drainage grates. Gopher holes, divots and bumps. Seating Areas.

Goalpost Safety Goalpost accidents kill at least one child and injure hundreds annually. Goals must be anchored, staked and counter-weighted when in use. Without counter-weights, any goalpost 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.

Quiz When seeking shelter from lightning which statement is not true: It is safest inside a building with a roof and four walls. It is safer inside a metal vehicle with windows up. Avoid being the tallest object and seek shelter under the tree. When thunder is heard, lightning may strike.

AYSO Volunteers What does it mean to be an AYSO Volunteer? You are entrusted with the AYSO Vision

AYSO 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.

AYSO Kids Zone Help make every game a kids zone! Kids Zone guidelines encourage appropriate sideline behavior – key to promoting a fun, safe, family-friendly environment. Parents and Spectators pledge to respect the tenets of Kids Zone. Coaches, Referees, Parents and Players abide by a Code of Conduct.

Kids Zone Sidelines Spectators agree to respect the following rules: Kids are # 1 Fun, not winning is everything Fans only cheer, only coaches coach No yelling in anger Respect the volunteer referees No swearing No alcohol, tobacco products, controlled substances No weapons Leave no trash behind Set a proper example of Good Sportsmanship

AYSO Role Models AYSO asks Volunteers to support the following principles designed to provide children with the maximum benefit from participating in youth sports.

AYSO Principles of Sport Create an environment that enriches children’s lives: Athletics should develop the whole child. Treat children as individuals and in an age-appropriate manner. Help develop positive feelings of self-worth. Provide honest, positive encouragement. Support the AYSO Team of officials, coaches, referees, and spectators. Remember enjoyment is critical to learning and while the objective of the game is to win, the goal is ENJOYMENT!

AYSO Principles of Sport Promote the benefits of soccer and sport because soccer: Contributes to physical well-being and physical fitness. Builds confidence and self-esteem. Promotes teamwork and cooperation. Encourages friendships.

AYSO Principles of Sport While performing volunteer duties, remember the reasons kids play sports: To have fun! To improve skills and to learn new skills. To be with friends and make new friends. For the excitement of competition. To enjoy the success and recognition associated with sport.

AYSO Principles of Sport 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. Instill respect for teammates, opposing teams, coaches and referees. Encourage good behavior on and off the field. Stress that foul or abusive language will not be tolerated.

AYSO Principles of Sport Model ethical conduct: Maintain self-control, self-discipline at all times. Demonstrate respect for athletes, officials, coaches and others. Recognize the effect your behavior has on others and be positive, courteous and considerate Understand the Laws of the Game to minimize conflicts and maximize enjoyment. Recognize that mutual respect for others is essential for a quality sports experience.

AYSO Principles of Sport Foster a “safe” learning environment: Show acceptance, react positively to mistakes and give encouragement. Encourage self-confidence and self-esteem. Model appropriate interactions with others. Use positive instructional methods including specific feedback, encouragement and constructive criticism. Emphasize the importance of enjoying the activities. Set achievable goals.

AYSO Principles of Sport Participate in continuing education: Stay updated on the following: Rule changes – AYSO, Laws of the Game. 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.

AYSO Role Models Do not tolerate abusive behavior. Document and report any misconduct. Regional Boards should address any abuses: provide awareness and training if necessary, take steps according to Dispute Resolution and Due Process. Consult Area and Section for support. Report threatening or violent conduct immediately.

AYSO Incident Reports An Incident Report is required whenever there is a incident involving AYSO participants, activities, facilities, or property including: Injuries/Illnesses - Concussions Threats of bodily harm Fighting Property damage Hospitalizations Law Enforcement Lawsuits

Remember, it’s for the kids and Great Soccer starts here!

Thank You Thank you for volunteering to bring a quality youth soccer program to your community and for supporting the AYSO philosophies. Everyone Plays® Balanced Teams Open Registration Positive Coaching Good Sportsmanship Player Development

AYSO Safe Haven Test To complete your certification, please take the AYSO Safe Haven Test included in the EXPO Workbook. or follow along with the questions on the slides…

1. The Safe Haven Certification Program was developed by AYSO to provide protection for both the children and for: AYSO Coaches AYSO Parents AYSO Referees AYSO Volunteers

2. AYSO has 6 core philosophies including: Everyone Plays, Balanced Teams, Open Registration, Positive Coaching and Good Sportsmanship. Which of the following completes the list? Everyone Volunteers. Player Development. Character Counts. Equal Opportunity.

3. The AYSO definition of “Everyone Plays” is: Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible—because it is fair and more fun when teams of equal ability play. Our program’s goal is for kids to play soccer—so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least half of every game. Our program is open to all children 4 to 19 years of age who want to register and play soccer. Interest and enthusiasm are the only criteria for playing. Encouragement of player effort provides for greater enjoyment by the players and ultimately leads to better-skilled and better-motivated players.

4. The AYSO definition of “Player Development” is: We strive to create a positive environment based on mutual respect rather than a win-at-all-costs attitude, and our program is designed to instill good sportsmanship in every facet of AYSO. Each year we form new teams as evenly balanced as possible—because it is fair and more fun when teams of equal ability play. Our program’s goal is for kids to play soccer—so we mandate that every player on every team must play at least half of every game We believe that all players should be able to develop their soccer skills and knowledge to the best of their abilities, both individually and as a member of a team, in order to maximize their enjoyment of the game.

5. Which of the following statements most accurately describes the AYSO requirements regarding the Volunteer Application Form? A fully completed and signed AYSO volunteer application form need only be submitted once. All AYSO volunteers must complete, sign and submit a Volunteer Application Form each year. Only new volunteers or previous AYSO volunteers who have been inactive for one or more seasons are required to complete a Volunteer Application Form. Completing the AYSO Volunteer Application Form is optional.

6. Which of the following statements most accurately describes the AYSO requirements regarding coaches, referees and other volunteers? All AYSO volunteers are required to complete Safe Haven Certification. All AYSO volunteers are required to be properly trained in their jobs. All AYSO volunteers are required to be authorized to do their job by the appropriate AYSO authority. All of the above.

7. The Volunteer Protection Act of 1997 provides protection for volunteers for which of the following? Immunity for volunteers from certain types of liabilities, including those resulting from providing alcohol, tobacco products and illegal or prescription-only drugs to minors. Immunity from liability for property damage while using public facilities. Immunity from liability for injury while transporting players in an automobile. Immunity from certain liabilities for volunteers who meet its requirements.

8. According to the AYSO Safe Haven Program, which of the following best defines “Training”? Training is anything a volunteer does to increase their general knowledge. Training is the education a volunteer receives to do a specific job or task. Training is experience gained through reading about soccer. Training is obtained by actually performing the requested job.

9. According to the AYSO Safe Haven Program, which of the following best defines “Certification”? Certification confirms you know soccer. Certification confirms you are good at your job. Certification confirms key competencies in a volunteer. Certification confirms you know what you should avoid doing.

10. What is the AYSO Safe Haven recommended minimum supervision ratio of children to adults? 15:1. 8:1. 18:1. 10:1.

11. The AYSO Safe Haven Supervision Policy states which of the following? At least two adults should be present at all times during AYSO sponsored events. No volunteer should be alone with any child or group of children (except for their own children) during AYSO sponsored events. At least one adult present should be the same gender as the group during AYSO sponsored events. All of the above

12. In addition to physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse and ethical abuse, which of the following is the fifth type of abuse generally recognized by psychologists, legislators and educators around the country? Neglect Abuse. Religious Abuse. Racial Abuse. Ethnic Abuse.

13. A coach who encourages a player to fake an injury and sit out on the bench and substitutes the star player in because “the team needs him or her” is an example of what type of abusive behavior: Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Neglect Abuse Ethical Abuse

14. A coach or team members who consistently ignore one player throughout the entire season would be an example of what type of abuse? Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Neglect Abuse Ethical Abuse

15. A coach who allows a player to be hit in the arm by each of her teammates because she missed a shot on goal would be an example of what type of abusive behavior? Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Neglect Abuse Sexual Abuse

16. A parent who stands on the side lines and throws his hands up in the air, hits his head with the palm of this hand, and throws his water bottle to the ground during the games would be demonstrating what type of abusive behavior? Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Neglect Abuse Ethical Abuse

17. A Team Parent who gives sensual massages to players could be demonstrating what type of abusive behavior? Emotional Abuse Physical Abuse Neglect Abuse Sexual Abuse

18. To protect yourself as a volunteer, which of the following is recommended by the AYSO Safe Haven Program? Avoid situations in which you are alone with a child other than your own, including transporting youngsters in a car. When it is necessary to speak privately with a child, find a place out of earshot but within sight of others for your conference. When hugging is appropriate, hug from the side over the shoulders, not from the front. All of the above.

19. Some forms of contact are acceptable as long as they are respectful and appropriate. Which of the following is not acceptable? Slaps on the butt or chest bumping are acceptable for adults to do to players because they are an excepted part of behavior in sports. A “High-Five” hand slap, congratulating players for a job well done. A hug from the side in the open, not in private. A brief, quick hug over the shoulders, with the child’s permission.

20. During a lightning storm, it is advisable to: Seek shelter under a tree Gather in an open area near a concession stand Take shelter in an enclosed car with the windows closed Continue with the game and remain in the bleachers when thunder is heard and no lightning is seen.

21. When temperatures and humidity rise significantly above normal levels, reasonable safety considerations would include: Allowing more frequent water and substitution stoppages Notifying players to hydrate 24 hours in advance of planned activities Providing additional shade All of the above.

22. The AYSO Safe Haven Program recommends which of the following when cleaning a blood spill? Clean the spill immediately or as soon as possible after the spill occurs and wear disposable gloves and other personal protective equipment. Wipe up the spill with paper towels or other absorbent materials then flood the area for at least 20 minutes with ¼ cup chlorine bleach to 1 gallon of water. Dispose of the contaminated material used to clean the spill in a labeled biohazard container. All of the above.

23. Which statement is not true concerning concussions? Concussions can occur without a loss of consciousness Concussions are serious brain injuries As long as the player expresses no signs of pain, it is safe to return to play. Players suspected of having a concussion should seek professional medical care.

24. On a warm day, a player who appears to be fatigued, dizzy, not perspiring and very hot to the touch is probably suffering from a very dangerous condition called: hypothermia heat exhaustion concussion heat stroke

25. The objective of the game is to win, but the goal for all coaches and volunteers in AYSO should be to: Support the development of the whole child. Develop positive feelings of self-worth in each child Treat children as individuals All the above

26. Which of the following is not one of the benefits of soccer promoted by AYSO: Contributes to physical fitness and well-being Develops a “win-at-all costs” attitude Encourages friendships Promotes teamwork and cooperation

27. When volunteers demonstrate that winning is not the most important thing in sport but that character development is also an important consideration, this is an example of: Modeling and promoting good sportsmanship Modeling ethical conduct Developing effective motivational skills Participating in continuing education

28. Referees staying updated on Law changes—(AYSO, FIFA) is an example of: Model ethical conduct Develop effective motivational skills Participating in continuing education Develop sporting behavior in players

29. Use of Social Media sites and electronic communications are recommended means for improving communications as long as: All communications between adults and minors are transparent and include parents. Adults post everything on their public Facebook page. Postings on websites and pages protect the privacy and identities of minors a) and c)

30. AYSO’s Kids Zone program promotes appropriate sideline behavior including which of the following sideline rules: Cheering loudly, as long as it’s positive, to drown out the opposite sideline Only coaches can challenge the referees Cheering is an important contributor to winning Fun, not winning is everything

AYSO’s Safe Haven Workshop Title