Risk management is the process of managing your club's potential exposure to loss (either bodily injury or property damage). It is best to prevent accidents and injuries before they happen; therefore, it is strongly recommended that each Club Sport implement the following safety practices:
- Cancel practices or move indoors if there are dangerous weather conditions, including but not limited to lightning, hail, flooding, snow, tornadoes, and ice.
- Make sure all club participants use appropriate protective gear during contact practice and competition.
- Making travel arrangements in advance and avoid driving between midnight – 5:00am.
- Have a first aid kit onsite during practice and competition.
- Club officers, coaches, and instructors should review the risks inherent in their sport with the membership and emphasize safety at all times.
- Review the club’s emergency procedures with the Club Sports Director.
- Inspect facilities and equipment prior to each practice, game, or special event. Report unsafe conditions to the Rec Sports Office immediately, or if at an off-campus venue, report the condition to the proper managing authority.
- Have all club participants complete a physical before participating.
- Require each club member has health insurance (can be purchased through MSU).
- Concussion education for teammates and coaches.
- Require all club members participating in an aquatic activity verify that they can swim (i.e., Crew, Water Polo, Triathlon, etc.).
Each individual participating in a club sport must take responsibility for their health and safety. All individuals who intend to participate in vigorous sports should, for their own protection, have a physical examination by a qualified medical professional before participating in any club activities.
As part of the responsibilities of club officers, all steps possible to ensure the safety and health of club members must be taken. Each clubs’ officers are responsible to be certain that a current liability waiver is signed by each club member and is on file with the Club Sports Office, that all appropriate safety and risk management policies are adhered to, that there are adequately qualified officials present, and that coaches or other responsible individuals are adequately trained for their assigned duties including CPR and First Aid. Officers also have the responsibility of notifying the Athletic Trainer of any home games/tournaments at least two weeks in advance. See section above “Certified Athletic Trainer” for contact information.
In order to provide immediate medical attention to an injured member, it is recommended that all club coaches/instructors be required to be certified in Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). If a club does not have a coach/instructor who is, it is recommended that two people from the club be certified.
Any injuries that occur throughout the season, either at practice or at a competition, should be reported to the Athletic Trainer.