Supervision

• Constant visual supervision is recommended during initial practice of contact skills.
• On-site supervision is recommended following initial practice of contact skills and after all safety concerns have been emphasized.
• In-the-area supervision is recommended for practice of non-contact skills.

Instructional Considerations

• Student athletes should receive instruction on how to properly adjust and maintain equipment prior to wearing football gear.
• Safe blocking and tackling techniques should be taught and reinforced throughout the season.
• Each student athlete should have actively participated in at least eight practice days before playing in first league game.
• When not in use, practice equipment such as blocking sleds and bags, should be kept at a safe distance from practicing student athletes.
• There should be a minimum of 72 hours between games.
• Teachers/coaches should assess heat, humidity and physical condition of student athletes when planning practices.
• Down-marker personnel should be trained in safe use of equipment.

Equipment/Facilities

• When issuing equipment, all gear should be fitted properly.
• Football helmets must have the National Operating Committee on Standards for Athletic Equipment (NOCSAE) approval seal and warning label.
• Football helmets and shoulder pads should be inspected annually and reconditioned as determined by the manufacturer’s requirements and warranties through an accredited equipment reconditioner (NOCSAE, NAERA).
• Football helmets should be replaced no later than 10 years from date of manufacture.
• For all contact situations, the minimum protective equipment that should be worn includes: full fit interior mouth guard, properly fitted helmet, suitable position-specific facemask, shoulder pads, hip-tailbone pads, thigh pads and knee protection.
• Full padding, in good condition, should be provided on blocking equipment.
• Goalposts must be properly padded.
• Boundary lines should be clearly indicated.
• Suitable clothing and footwear that satisfies football regulations should be worn.