Safety Guidelines

At Griffith City, the safety and well-being of our players, coaches, officials, and spectators is our top priority. These guidelines are designed to ensure a safe environment for everyone involved.

General Safety Principles

Safety is everyone's responsibility. All members, players, coaches, officials, and spectators are expected to adhere to these guidelines and report any safety concerns to club officials immediately.

Pre-Participation Safety

All players must complete a medical information form before participating in club activities
Players should disclose any pre-existing medical conditions that may affect their ability to participate safely
Players are encouraged to undergo a pre-season medical check-up with their healthcare provider
Ensure proper hydration and nutrition before training sessions and matches
Get adequate rest and sleep to prevent fatigue-related injuries

Training and Match Safety

Equipment Safety

Always wear appropriate footwear for the playing surface
Shin guards are mandatory for all training sessions and matches
Remove all jewelry, watches, and accessories before play
Goalkeepers must wear appropriate protective equipment
Check that all equipment is in good condition before use

Physical Preparation

Always perform a proper warm-up before any physical activity
Include dynamic stretching in your warm-up routine
Cool down and stretch after training and matches
Gradually increase training intensity to prevent overuse injuries
Listen to your body and rest when necessary

Environmental Safety

Check the playing surface for hazards before use (holes, debris, etc.)
In hot weather, schedule activities during cooler parts of the day
Take regular water breaks during hot weather
Be aware of the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke
In cold weather, wear appropriate layers to maintain body temperature
During thunderstorms, follow the 30/30 rule: If thunder is heard within 30 seconds of lightning, seek shelter and wait 30 minutes after the last thunder before resuming activity

Injury Prevention and Management

Injury Prevention

Maintain good physical fitness throughout the season
Use proper technique for all soccer skills
Report any pain or discomfort to your coach immediately
Don't play through pain – it can lead to more serious injuries
Follow a balanced training program that includes strength, flexibility, and conditioning exercises

Injury Management

The club maintains a first aid kit at all training sessions and matches
At least one person with first aid training will be present at all club activities
For minor injuries, follow the RICE protocol (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation)
In case of serious injury, do not move the injured person and call emergency services immediately
All injuries must be reported to club officials and documented
Players must obtain medical clearance before returning to play after a significant injury

Concussion Awareness

Know the signs and symptoms of concussion (headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, etc.)
Any player suspected of having a concussion must be immediately removed from play
When in doubt, sit them out – it's better to miss one game than the whole season
Players with a suspected concussion must be evaluated by a healthcare professional
Follow a gradual return-to-play protocol under medical supervision

Facility Safety

Our club is committed to maintaining safe facilities for all users:

Regular inspections of playing fields, goals, and equipment
Proper securing of goals to prevent tipping
Clear marking of any hazards or out-of-bounds areas
Adequate lighting for evening training sessions and matches
Clean and hygienic changing facilities and bathrooms
Designated parking areas and safe pedestrian access

Emergency Contacts

Emergency Services: 000

Nearest Hospital: Griffith Base Hospital
(02) 12345678

Club Safety Officer: John Smith
0400 123 456

Safety Concerns Email:
abc@example.com

Last Updated: March 11, 2025