Safety First

To ensure the safety of our players, we recognize that football, like any contact sport, carries a risk of injury. We take proactive measures to minimize these risks, including thorough training, proper equipment, and regular health assessments. Our commitment to player safety is paramount, and we continuously evaluate our practices to create a secure environment for everyone involved.

 

Safety Policy

 

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• Our coaches are all certified in advanced concussion training.

• All players are allowed to wear Guardian Caps for both practices and games. 

           About Guardian Caps

• Our Proper-fitting, certified equipment is highly researched and recertified to keep it in top condition.

• RGB uses primarily Riddell Speed Flex and Schutt F7 helmets for our athletes. 

• Our coaches are Heads Up certified and follow all concussion protocols accordingly. 

           About Heads Up 

• We follow strict safety guidelines as set forth by the Illinois High School Sports Association with minimum live contact.

• We strictly adhere to the official rules of AYF which mandates kids compete with others of similar age and skill. 

 

The health and safety of our Bears Football participants is our top priority. As part of our commitment to safety, our plan currently includes:

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• Athletic trainers/medical personnel are on the sidelines at all games to aid in the assessment of football player and cheerleader injuries.  The Athletic Trainer/medical staff have sole authority to determine player readiness, when/if, to resume play. 

• We follow a Concussion Protocol. With independent field managers at every game watching for potential concussions. A copy of our Concussion Protocol is posted to our website prior to the start of each season.

• All RGB football helmets undergo Riddell's/Schutt's recommended scheduled maintenance and reconditioning. 

• We are a participating member organization of USA Football. Our participation requires each of our football coaches to take and pass a comprehensive certification courses.

• All Coaching staff must be AYF Human Kinetics Coach Certified.

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The key health and safety components of USA Football’s youth platform are:​

• concussion recognition and response,

• heat preparedness and hydration,

• sudden cardiac arrest,

• equipment fitting, contact limitations, and

• tackling/blocking techniques. Our participation also provides us and our coaches access to a great deal of news, information and data on the sport of football and safety. Additional information about USA Football and its youth football platform can be found at www.usafootball.com.