Safe Play Policy

West Carroll Rugby Club is committed to providing a safe, structured, and developmentally appropriate playing environment for all participants. This Safe Play Policy is applied club-wide to ensure compliance with the Carroll County Department of Recreation & Parks, West Carroll Recreation Council, USA Rugby, and the State Youth Rugby Organization (Rugby Maryland).

Medical Preparedness & Emergency Readiness

• A fully stocked medical kit must be available on the sideline at all practices and matches.
• Certified athletic trainers or medical personnel must be present at all tackle matches, as required by Rugby MD and USA Rugby.
• Coaches and designated staff are trained in CPR, First Aid, AED use, Stop the Bleed, and Emergency Response Procedures.
• The club follows all Emergency Action Procedures required by Carroll County Recreation & Parks, including facility evacuation and emergency communication protocols.

Player Registration & Eligibility Compliance

• All players must be registered (CIPP'ed) with USA Rugby, ensuring accident and liability coverage for sanctioned activities.
• The club follows all USA Rugby age eligibility regulations, including proper use of waivers when applicable.
• Participation in practices or games is not permitted without proper registration and eligibility verification.

Concussion & Injury Management

• The club follows the Carroll County Recreation & Parks Concussion Protocol, requiring immediate removal from play and medical evaluation for any suspected head or neck injury.
• Athletes may only return to participation with written medical clearance from a licensed healthcare provider trained in concussion management.
• All injuries are documented using required injury reporting procedures.

Weather & Environmental Safety

• Activities are conducted in accordance with the Carroll County Public Schools Inclement Weather and Severe Weather Policies regarding facility use and participant safety.
• Coaches and coordinators monitor weather conditions and adjust practices or game plans as necessary to protect player wellbeing.

Coaching Standards & Player Development

• The club implements progressive contact instruction, ensuring that players develop skills safely and appropriately for their age and experience level.
• All coaches are screened, certified, and compliant with USA Rugby membership requirements, SafeSport Training, and Carroll County Recreation volunteer policies.
• Coaches must sign and adhere to the Coach Code of Conduct, promoting safety, sportsmanship, and positive youth development.

Safe Environment & Participant Conduct

• All program participants are required to acknowledge and follow the Carroll County Recreation & Parks Good Sportsmanship Policy and Code of Conduct. Violations may result in the filing of an Incident Report and Disciplinary action as determined by the West Carroll Recreation Council and/or Carroll County Recreation & Parks.
• All players review and sign a Player Code of Conduct at the start of each season, outlining expectations for behavior, respect, and sportsmanship.
• The club maintains a culture of safety, inclusion, and accountability consistent with the standards of its governing organizations (West Carroll and Rugby MD).

Through consistent application of this Safe Play Policy, West Carroll Rugby Club seeks to minimize risk, promote athlete welfare, and provide rugby experience for all participants.