Youth Football endorsed by Concussion Doctor

Source: sadlersports.com - Youth Football endorsed by Concussion Doctor
Author: John M. Sadler

Risks of CTE are anecdotal, without evidence

Julian Bailes is is the brain researcher portrayed by actor Alec Baldwin in the movie Concussion. He works closely with Bennet Omalu, the forensic pathologist who it can be said started the war on concussions in football. But while the two partner to study traumatic brain injuries, they have differing opinions regarding the risks of concussion and chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE)  in youth football.

The New York Times recently ran an op-ed by Omalu, who is a vocal opponent of youth tackle football. Bailes, on the other hand, encourages youngsters to participate in youth football and other organized sports. He cites both the social benefits and ongoing safety improvements in leagues since the furor over concussions began several years ago.

Research vs. anecdotal evidence

Bailes, whose two children play football, is the chairman of the Pop Warner Football medical advisory committee. He’s concerned that the film and Omalu’s article will inevitably keep many parents from having their children play contact sports. He disagrees with the premise that youngsters are at risk for CTE, which results from repeated blows to the head. In his opinion, CTE is an issue for only a minority of former NFL players and a few current players  due to the safety reforms that have been put in place.

Bailes also points out that former players determined to have suffered CTE, which is only diagnosable after death, were those who were known to have displayed possible signs of the disease.

There are no facts supporting diagnosed cases of CTE or brain damage in youth that resulted from playing youth football, said Bailes. Bailes wants parents to understand how the sport has specifically improved the rules for safer play and practice. The ongoing efforts of concussion awareness education for players, parents, and coaches helps parents make the best decision for their child. He concedes that other changes may be ahead such as eliminating punt returns to make the sport as safe as possible.

Concussion risk management

Children participate in risky activities all the time, from snow skiing to driving a car.“We teach [our children] a lot of sports and activities, and so part of that is our responsibility to teach them the safe and right way to do it. But at the end of the day all these activities have potential risks,”  said Bailes.

We have many articles on concussions and risk management programs for youth football and other sports. We at Sadler Sports & Recreation Insurance take great pride in promoting the prevention of injuries and best risk management practices so claims can be avoided. Feel free to contact us for more information or for assistance in getting a fast quote for your league or team.

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Source: Neil Best, “Concussion’ neurosurgeon Julian Bailes endorses youth football,” newsday.com. 10 Dec. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/youth-football-endorsed-concussion-doctor/

Cheer Injuries: Low Frequency But High Severity

Source: sadlersports.com - Cheer Injuries: Low Frequency But High Severity
Author: John M. Sadler

Risk management and coach training integral to safety

In the last 20 years, high school cheerleading has morphed from an activity on the sidelines of the athletic field to a highly competitive sport. This and the increasingly difficult stunts cheerleaders perform are contributors to the increase in serious cheer-related injuries. However, findings of a recent study published in Pediatrics show that cheer injuries tend to more severe in nature but fewer in number in comparison to almost all other high school sports.

The study’s results found that only gymnastics had a higher proportional rate of injuries than cheer that resulted in athletes being benched for periods of three weeks to an entire season. Other significant findings are that male cheerleaders are more likely to experience injuries and that most injuries occur during practice.

What’s behind the injuries and how to prevent them

Nearly half of cheer injuries are suffered by cheerleaders who make up the formation bases for pyramids and other stunts. Fliers account for 36 percent and spotters 10 percent.

Concussions, while the most common cheer injury, were significantly lower than all other high school sports combined. However, most cheer concussions were the result of elbows and other body parts hitting a cheerleader’s head rather than the head hitting the ground or other surface. Other common cheerleading injuries are ligament fractures, sprains, and muscle strains.

The complexity of the stunts performed and the height at which cheerleaders fly mean that having an experienced coach is integral to each team, according to Mark Riederer of Pediatric Orthopaedic Surgery and Sports Medicine at C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital at the University of Michigan.

Proper safety equipment, making sure the cheerleaders are all at the same performance level, and having an athletic trainer on the high school staff can all help reduce the risk of injuries.

Sport or extracurricular activity?

Approximately 400,000 students across the U.S. participate in high school cheerleading each year. This number includes more than 123,000 who participate in competitive squads that include dynamic tosses pyramids, and other stunts in their routines.

Not all schools classify cheerleading as a sport. The distinction between cheer as a competitive sport and a non-athletic extracurricular activity is significant because sports incorporate stricter safety rules. For cheer rules would designate  practice locations that are relatively free from distractions and specify coach certification requirements.

All in all, cheerleading is not a particularly dangerous sport and appears to be safer than other sports, said Dustin Currie, lead author of the study. But, he added, precautions to minimize the potential risks of injury and to alleviate parents’ fear of participation in cheer should be a priority.

According to John Sadler, this information is consistent with our studies on youth cheer outside of school sports. We see relatively few injuries by frequency but some are severe. Therefore, quality, high limit Accident and General Liability insurance is still a must. Also, there is definitely a correlation between injuries and the quality of coach training and certification, as well as the standards that are being followed.

We have several articles on the topic of cheer safety on our blog and in our risk management library. And please contact us or  click here for further information or a fast quote for cheerleading insurance.

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Sources:

Ashley Welch. “Cheerleading injuries less common, more severe than other sports,” cbsnew.com. 10 Dec. 2015.

Maureen Salamon. “Concussion is top injury among cheerleaders, study finds,” chicagotribune.com. 10 Dec. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/cheer-injuries-low-frequency-high-severity/

10-Second Sideline Concussion Test

Source: sadlersports.com - 10-Second Sideline Concussion Test
Author: John M. Sadler

 Software tracks eye movement on iPad

As the sports world continues to focus on concussions, it’s no wonder innovators are coming up with faster, smarter ways to detect a brain injuries. EyeGuide, start-up group out of Texas, has introduced a concussion

EyeGuide’s Focus technology uses a headset connected to an iPad to track eye movement. Users set a baseline reading and then repeat the test when it’s suspected they may have suffered a concussion. Coaches can have each player take the test at the beginning of the season to set their normal baseline eye function. The Focus is then used on the sidelines for immediate comparison on players suspected of suffering concussions.

New technology using known methods of concussion detection.

EyeGuide’s Focus system was developed after years of research at Texas Tech University. The software quickly measures neurological impairment following protocols established in neuroscience research. There are similar products on the market aimed at aiding coaches and trainers to detect concussions immediately.

Eyeguide explains the Focus technology in layman’s terms by comparing it to the follow-my-finger eye test given to suspected drunk drivers.

Players avoiding concussion diagnosis vs. intelligent technology

Approximately 500,000 concussions are reported in youth sports across the U.S. each year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Eyeguide, knowing that even more concussion go unreported, took into account that players fear being removed from play if they report symptoms of a concussion.The Focus technology gets smarter with use as it compares each player’s eye movements with a database of other athlete’s records. This prevents players from cheating the system.

Company still awaiting funding

The company is still awaiting start-up financing, which it believes to be imminent. Therefore, the product has not yet hit the market.

Sadler Sports & Recreation Insurance is all about safety and injury prevention. We offer more information on concussion research and prevention on our blog and free concussion risk management resources in our risk management library.

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Source:  Mary-Ann Russon, “EyeGuide Focus: This eye-tracking headset can diagnose concussions in just 10 seconds,” www.ibtimes.co.uk. 3 Dec. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/10-second-sideline-concussion-test/

Penn State settlements in sex abuse lawsuits reach $93M

Source: sadlersports.com - Penn State settlements in sex abuse lawsuits reach $93M
Author: John M. Sadler

Settlements average $2.9 million per claim.

Six of Jerry Sandusky’s sexual abuse accusers have settled with Penn State, bringing the total paid out thus far to $93 million. It is possible there are still outstanding claims that will be paid out in the future. A university audit statement shows the school has paid or agreed to pay 32 claims, according to a Nov. 25 WJAC-TV report.

Sandusky, serving a 30 to 60 year prison sentence, is appealing his conviction for 45 counts of sexual abuse that was at the center of a 2012 scandal. There are appeals rulings pending against three former administrators at the university who are seeking to have charges of covering up abuse complaints dropped.The court recently restored Sandusky’s pension from Penn State.

Last month, a case brought by Victim 6 against Penn State and Sandusky’s charity The Second Mile was dismissed after a confidential settlement was reached. In October 2013, the university settled with 26 people for $59.7 million and last April, the university’s board of trustees authorized settlement of additional Sandusky-related suits.

While your sports organization will likely never be embroiled in a lawsuit of this magnitude, sex abuse and molestation are very real risks within youth sports. We offer free risk management material to help prevent sex abuse. Many of our General Liability programs include coverage for sex abuse & molestation. To get a quote, visit www.sadlersports.com and click on “get quote”.

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Source: “Penn State’s Sandusky Settlement Total Nearly $94M,” insurancejournal.com. 30 Nov. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/penn-state-settlements-in-sex-abuse-lawsuits-reach-93m/

U.S. Soccer Federation Sets New Header Rules For Ages 13 & Under

Source: sadlersports.com - U.S. Soccer Federation Sets New Header Rules For Ages 13 & Under
Author: John M. Sadler

Reducing exposure to head injuries in the youngest players

New safety regulations were announced by the United States Soccer Federation in an effort to reduce the number of head injuries. These include the specific policy that restricts players under age 10 from heading the ball and reducing headers during practice for players aged 11 to 13.

Establishment of the new guidelines resolves a class-action lawsuit filed against FIFA, U.S. Soccer and the American Youth Soccer Organization alleging negligence in treating and monitoring head injuries. Plaintiffs sought no financial compensation, only changes to the rules.

The guidelines are mandatory for all national U.S. Soccer youth teams and academies, which includes Major League Soccer youth club teams. They will serve as recommendations for associations and program not overseen by U.S. Soccer.

Recommendations go beyond heading the ball

Modifications were also made to substitution rules in an attempt to protect players suspected of having suffered concussions. The current rules are for three substitutions per game, but don’t allow for temporary substitutions so players sustaining a head injury can be properly examined.

The new initiative also calls for increased education for parents, players, coaches and referees, as well uniformity in handling youth concussions. The intention of these educational efforts could will lead to a better understanding and acceptance of the heading rules for children.

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Source: Ben Strauss, U.S. Soccer Resolving Lawsuit Will Limit Headers.” nytimes.com. 09 Nov, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/u-s-soccer-federation-sets-new-header-rules-for-ages-13-under/

Concussion Paranoia Trend in Youth Tackle Football on Decline

Source: sadlersports.com - Concussion Paranoia Trend in Youth Tackle Football on Decline
Author: John M. Sadler

Many mainstream media outlets, bloggers and brain injury research groups have had a field day so far in reporting on the dangers of concussions and CTE and how youth tackle football is very dangerous. It seems as if many of them need for football to be very dangerous to further their interests. Generally, those in the media need an entertained audience and research groups need continued funding.

We recently blogged about two events that represent a return to common sense. The first is a report published by the American Academy of Pediatrics on safety in youth tackle football. The second is news that a judge dismissed a concussion class-action lawsuit against the Illinois High School Association. Interestingly enough, neither of these two events have received any significant amount of press.

Just to be clear, the media and these brain injury research groups have served an important function in the education of players, parents, administrators and staff on the dangers of concussions and too early return to play. They also reinforced the need for mandatory concussion risk management protocols that must be implemented by local youth tackle football organizations. Please see our youth tackle football brain injury risk management program under the concussion resources of the risk management page on our website. However, talk of widespread brain damage in youth football and the need to ban football is not based in science.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/concussion-paranoia-trend-in-youth-tackle-football-on-decline/

AAP Makes Safety Recommendations for Youth Tackle Football

Source: sadlersports.com - AAP Makes Safety Recommendations for Youth Tackle Football
Author: John M. Sadler

American Academy of Pediatrics says no need to delay teaching of proper tackling techniques to younger age groups

The American Academy of Pediatrics is tackling the issue of safety in youth football with new recommendations published in this month’s issue of Pediatrics. The AAP statement is a result of research on football injuries, head and neck injuries in particular, and the connection between tackling to football-related injuries.

The main points of the AAP recommendations are:

• Enforcement of proper tackling methods by officials and coaches, i.e. not tolerating head-first tackles.


• Informing players about the benefits of play vs. potential risk of injury.


• Offering more players opportunities to play through expansion of non-tackle leagues.


• Putting athletic trainers on the field to assist in preventing injuries.

No perfect answers to safety risks

The removal or delay of introducing tackling are ideas that get floated regularly. According to Greg Landry, co-author of AAP’s recommendation statement, delaying the tackling experience until players are older and stronger could actually result in higher injury rates. The AAP would not go so far as to recommend removing tackling from youth football. Doing so would “dramatically reduce the risk of serious injuries to players, but it would fundamentally change the sport,” said William Meehan, III, a co-author of the statement.

The AAP stance is that proper tackling techniques should be taught early, even if tackling isn’t incorporated into the game. The AAP also encourages reducing the impact to players’ heads through ongoing coach instruction in proper tackling methods.

Tackle football is played by nearly 1.1 million high school players and consistently ranks as one of the most popular sports for youth athletes. There are untold millions  more ranging from 5 to 15 years of age playing in youth leagues.

In my opinion

These common sense recommendations help to restore balance when so many are trying to stir the pot and predict the “end of football” for their self serving interests. The bottom line is that all sports and recreational activities involve risks, but in most cases, the benefits outweigh the risks. I do question whether youth leagues can afford to have athletic trainers on the sidelines at every practice.

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Source: “The American Academy of Pediatrics Tackles Youth Football Injuries.” aap.org. 25 Oct. 2015.

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IL High School Assn. Concussion Class-action Lawsuit Dismissed

Source: sadlersports.com - IL High School Assn. Concussion Class-action Lawsuit Dismissed
Author: John M. Sadler

Judge uses head in rendering decision

An Illinois concussion class-action lawsuit, which is the first concussion class action against a state high school association, has been dismissed. The suit was filed by players against the Illinois High School Association. The judge ruled that IHSA has put policies in place to improve the safety of the game and minimize brain injury risks. Judge Leroy Martin, Jr. also stated that mandating costly requirements would only cause football to be unaffordable for many schools.

The judge recognized IHSA’s efforts to protect student athletes, and that it has no direct relationship to football or the plaintiffs. In addition, his written decision read in part, “Imposing broader liability on this defendant would certainly change the sport of football and potentially harm it or cause it to be abandoned.”

The suit against the IHSA is the first of its kind against an organization overseeing high school football. The plaintiffs were asking the court to supervise high school management of football head injuries and seeking payment for medical testing of former students who played from as far back as 2002. The suit’s lead plaintiff played from 2010 to 2014 and states he continues to suffer memory loss from injuries suffered during that time.

The arguments

IHSA argued that it’s not an NFL-like cash cow and has an annual revenue of only $10 million to cover over 40 sports and other activities among the state’s high schools. There would be no room in the budget to comply with any requirements imposed by the court, according Thomas Heiden, the attorney representing IHSA.  He also argued that covering the payment the plaintiffs requested would lead to poorer schools shutting down their football programs and leaving only the students in wealthy schools eligible to participate.

According to plaintiffs’ attorney Joe Siprut, IHSA was giving the false notion that high school football is being threatened, and that improved safety would lead to its survival. He argued that the sport is already in danger since many fearful parents are not allowing their students to play.

In my opinion

This is a common sense ruling that may help to restore some balance against the media and research group-induced paranoia that evidently needs youth and high school football to be very dangerous to serve their interests. But, of course, this is just a trial court ruling and we probably have not seen the last of these. The good news is that the educational outreach programs and new risk management protocols seem to be having a positive impact.

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Source: Michael Tarm and Sara Burnett, “Judge Tosses Concussions Lawsuit,” insurancejournal.com. 20 Oct., 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/il-high-school-assn-concussion-class-action-lawsuit-dismissed/

Death in Fitness Club Steamroom

Source: sadlersports.com - Death in Fitness Club Steamroom
Author: John M. Sadler

Ignored safety protocol ends in tragedy.

Businesses train their employees on opening and closing routines such as turning alarms on and off to closing out cash registers. There are security and safety reasons for these protocols. The death of a 24 Hour Fitness member is a tragic illustration of why it’s imperative that such routines be followed.

The body of a 77-year-old woman was found in a Colorado 24 Hour Fitness steam room by two members at 7:45 a.m. Apparently, the woman passed out in the steam room, which she accessed some time after 1 p.m. the previous afternoon. She died of renal failure resulting from dehydration, according to the coroner’s report.

24 Hour Fitness has a policy that employees are to conduct “team cleans” of the club every hour. And it’s obvious that the closing employee failed to checking that everyone had left the building before closing for the night.

Unfortunately, a similar incident occurred at another 24 Hour Fitness club in California in 2014. The body of a 60-year-old man was discovered in the sauna by the cleaning crew an hour after the club’s midnight closing.

It’s important to note that such tragedies could happen at any fitness club. It’s easy for employees begin to think of the daily and hourly walk-throughs as mundane and unnecessary when no incidents take place over the course of days, weeks and months. Fitness club owners and managers need to continually stress the importance of being alert and following the safety protocols that are in place. These two deaths can serve as examples why the policies are in place.

And to make matters worse, a wrongful death lawsuit could be filed by the victim’s family, which could financially ruin the club, the club owner and the employees involved.

We offer other helpful risk management articles on our blog for fitness clubs and fitness trainers.

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Source: Pamela Kufahl, “Woman’s Undiscovered Death in Steam Room,” clubindustry.com. 14 July, 2015.

 

 

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/death-in-fitness-club-steamroom/

Immediate Sideline Detection of Concussion

Source: sadlersports.com - Immediate Sideline Detection of Concussion
Author: John M. Sadler

Vision test is new tool for concussion detection

The estimated 4 million sports-related concussions that occur nationwide every year are getting lots of attention from the media and medical professionals. And it looks like scientists have come up with a simple and reliable test to quickly determine on the sidelines whether or not an athlete has sustained a concussion.

Results of the study

The King-Devick vision test measures how rapidly athletes can read a series of numbers. Studies revealed 86 percent reliability in detecting concussions in athletes to whom the tests were administered. The determinations were later clinically confirmed. When the vision test was administered along with balance and cognition assessments, detection of concussions was 100 percent.

The New York University Langone Concussion Center review included 1,419 pro hockey players and amateur, college and youth football, hockey basketball, rugby, boxing, soccer, and lacrosse players. Concussions were sustained by 112 of the participants.

Vision plays an important role in the diagnosis of concussions and their potential long term effects. There is a vast network of visual pathways in the brain, and disruptions in these pathways can be a sign of a brain injury. Earlier studies using the rapid number reading tests show a correlation between lowered scores and other neurological conditions such as multiple sclerosis,  ALS, and Parkinson’s disease.

Sideline administration

Coaches can administer baseline testing on athletes before the season starts to be used for comparison in the event of a suspected concussion. Uninjured athletes tend to improve their reading time by 1.9 seconds later in the season, while those tested immediately after sustaining a concussion averaged 4.8 seconds longer than their baseline times.

Subscriptions to the King-Devick vision test kits are currently available for $20 per athlete, which includes unlimited screenings throughout the subscription year.

Only a medical professional should diagnose a concussion.  But since there isn’t always a physician on the field, the King-Devick vision test is an effective tool to help parents, coaches, and trainers on the sidelines determine if an athlete should be removed from play, according Laura Balcer, co-director of the Langone Concussion Center and a professor of neurology.

There can be a lot of chaos on the sidelines, so anything that helps eliminate guesswork is needed, said Steven Galetta, co-author of the study, which was published in the September, 2015 issues of Concussion.

We have more information on concussions and concussion prevention on our blog.

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Source: “Vision testing effective for concussion detection,” Sporting Kid Live, nays.org. 11 Sept, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/immediate-sideline-detection-of-concussion/

Zip Line Safety

Source: sadlersports.com - Zip Line Safety
Author: John M. Sadler

Lowering the risk of aerial adventures

What was once a means to access forest canopies for ecological research is now a rapidly growing adventure experience offered in many forests, amusement parks and ski resorts across the country. Many forest zip line tours continue to encourage ecology awareness and appreciation, while others are primarily promoting them as an aerial adventure to thrill-seeking tourists.

An estimated 18 million people fly via zip lines each year making it one of the fastest growing commercial adventures, according to the Association for Challenge Course Technology (ACCT). But along with the excitement and thrills comes the risk of serious injuries if safety precautions aren’t taken and equipment isn’t properly maintained.

A typical zip line course consists of cables traversing and crossing a route that slopes downward across a forest, canyon, body of water, valley, or ravine. Access to the zip line is usually via ground-level platforms, stairways, or ladders. Participants are protected from falls with harnesses, lanyards,and clips ,and are often required to wear helmets. Speed and braking are controlled either by a guide, gravity or the participant.

The risk of injury to zip line riders is high, which is why the ACCT and ASTM are currently developing commercial zip line safety standards. Only Colorado, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Texas and West Virginia currently have zip line regulations.

A common injury suffered by zip liners is bone fractures, which are usually caused by participants falling from the access platform or slamming into the end station. However, much more severe injuries can and do occur. The best protection is in proper management by owners/operators:

• Design and construction: The zip line supports should be set in concrete for optimal bracing. The cable arc’s lowest point should be high enough to prevent riders from crashing into the final post. Rollers guards should be installed to prevent hand injuries. The starting platform should be protected and customers tethered while on the platform.


• Maintenance: Regular inspections should be conducted and documented. Daily inspections should made of all starting platforms, riding seats/handles and safety harnesses. Cable tension should be monitored and adjusted as needed.  Harness and brake padding should not show signs of wear and tear. Cables should be replaced per the manufacturer’s recommendations.


• Supervision: Participants should take a trainer-led safety course prior to take-off and be monitored by trained staff at all times. An employee should be present at both ends of the course. Zip line guides and operators should be fully trained to screen clients, fit and inspect equipment, inspect and maintain the course,and  rescue clients and evacuate the course. Zip line employees should  also be CPR certified and trained in first aid. Minimum age and size requirements should be posted and no one not meeting the posted limits should be permitted to ride.

If you have questions or would like information on insuring your zip line, call Sadler Sports and Recreation Insurance at (800) 622-7370.

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Source: Lothian Law, 27 May 2014

 

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Fitness Training on Public Property

Source: sadlersports.com - Fitness Training on Public Property
Author: John M. Sadler

L.A. cracking down on trainers without permits

The city of Los Angeles is proposing an ordinance that would require personal trainers using public parks and beaches to obtain permits. The law would also pertain to others who offer goods and services such as food vendors. Santa Monica passed a law that not only requires fitness trainers to have a permit, but carry insurance and pay a fee to use public space. L.A. is considering taking similar steps in addition to the permit.

Complaints from citizens about crowded parks and noise from large boot-camp style classes are one reason the cities are acting. Another is the potential for injury to participants, and the possibility of the city being liable. There’s also the fact that the trainers are making lots of money running their businesses on public property for free. And when they advertise, many of them include the park name, as if it’s a legitimate site for them to do business, said Kevin Regan, of L.A.’s Department of Recreation and Parks.

The city wants fitness instructors to follow the proper channels of operating legitimate businesses, which includes obtaining a city permit and insurance. City officials and many trainers think the new law will weed out those trainers who aren’t certified trainers or trainers who don’t even have a business license.

We invite you to read our other helpful articles on risk management for personal trainers.

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Source: Leslie Berestein Rojas, “City to fitness instructors who use LA parks: Get a permit.” scpr.org. 24 June 2015

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/fitness-training-on-public-property/

Arguing Treadmill Safety Standards

Source: sadlersports.com - Arguing Treadmill Safety Standards
Author: John M. Sadler

And liability releases come into play

A gross negligence lawsuit filed by a member of 24 Hour Fitness is all about the safety standards for treadmills… or the lack thereof.

The plaintiff claims she suffered a severe head injury after falling backwards off a treadmill and hitting another piece of steel equipment. The exercise machine she hit her head on was placed approximately 46 inches from the rear of the treadmill.

24 Hour Fitness argues that the plaintiff signed a liability release and that there is no treadmill safety zone industry standard. However, the plaintiff’s attorneys are countering by citing a section of the treadmill manufacturer’s owner’s manual and safety guidelines, as well as an expert’s statement that the plaintiff was put at risk by the distance between the treadmill and other piece of equipment.

According to ASTM International Standard F2115-05 there should be a clear distance of 20 inches on either side of the treadmill and 39 inches behind the treadmill.

“This standard, while not widely known by club operators, is very well known by the equipment manufacturers and has been effectively used in court cases,” said Steve Tharrett, president of Club Industry Consulting.

The plaintiff  is claiming that her signature on the liability release was fraudulently obtained.

On the day she signed the membership agreement she could neither speak nor read English, according to the suit.  The manager, who could not speak Spanish, showed her the membership fee on the computer screen and made exercise motions, which the plaintiff understood was the price for use of the facility. Since she could only read the numbers in the price, the plaintiff was not aware of the liability release provision included in the membership agreement when she signed.

We offer more articles on fitness center and treadmill safety and encourage you to read “Are Waiver/Releases Worth the Paper They are Written On?”

Source: Eric Stemgren, “Judgment Overturned in 24 Hour Fitness Treadmill Lawsuit,” clubindustry.com, 12 June, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/arguing-treadmill-safety-standards/

Frances Sadler Honored with Top SCISA Award for Scholar Athletes in SC

Source: sadlersports.com - Frances Sadler Honored with Top SCISA Award for Scholar Athletes in SC
Author: John M. Sadler

Hammond School senior Frances Sadler was presented the South Carolina Independent School Association Bill Simpson Award on May 22 by Athletic Director Mike Fanning.

The SCISA Bill Simpson Award is the highest honor bestowed each on year on the top graduating male and female scholar athletes in the more than 100-member independent school system in South Carolina. The award exemplifies the academic and athletic ideals that Mr. Simpson represented throughout his career as SCISA athletic secretary. The award is based on a combination of SAT score, class rank, academic and athletic achievements, headmaster and coach recommendations, student service record and community service.

Sadler is an Honor Graduate, member of the Cum Laude Society, a Junior Marshall, and the recipient of the Joseph Walker-Sumpter Mills Clarke Scholar/Athlete Award. She played soccer and ran track for Hammond School. She was a starter on the varsity soccer team since the 8th grade and is thought to be the second-leading female goal scorer in Hammond school history. She has been named to the SCISA all-region, all-state, and all-star teams and the High School Sports Report All-star Soccer Team. She also participated with the Hammond Select Ensemble, was a volunteer coach with the Columbia Swim League, and raised over $28,000 for Hammond School through gift wrap paper sales.

Sadler plans on attending the Calhoun Honors College of Clemson University in the fall, majoring in engineering.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/frances-sadler-honored-top-scisa-award-scholar-athletes-sc/

Top 10 Sports & Recreation Injuries

Source: sadlersports.com - Top 10 Sports & Recreation Injuries
Author: John M. Sadler

Where’s the outrage for non-football related injuries?

I was reading through a recent list of common sports and recreation injuries and began to wonder why football and other higher risk sports get most of the negative media attention? Why not boating, bicycling, skiing, snowboarding, inflatable moon bounce, ATV, golf carts, or home injuries? Why is the media not screaming for these activities to be banned? Is the media biased against football?

To follow is the recently published list that prompts the question:

1. Kids ages 5 to 14 made up 52 percent of football-related injuries requiring emergency room visits in 2012.


2. 
   

   The U.S. Coast Guard reported 500 deaths, 2,620 injuries and $39 million in property damage related to recreational boating accidents in 2013.



3. Alcohol use is the no. 1 contributing factor in fatal boating accidents and contributes to 16 percent of boating-related deaths.


4. The top five contributing factors to boating accidents are operator inexperience, operator inattention, improper lookout, excessive speed and machinery failure.


5. The National Highway Safety Traffic Administration reported 720 bicyclists killed and 49,000 injured in motor vehicle accidents in 2012.


6. 
   

   An average of 41.5 people died in skiing or snowboarding accidents each year between 2002 and 2012.



7. More than 90 percent of the 113,272 injuries treated in emergency rooms associated with inflatable amusements were related to moon bounces between 2003 and 2013.


8. Between 1982 and 2013, 13,043 ATV-related deaths were reported.


9. Approximately 13,000 golf cart-related accidents require a visit to the emergency room each year.


10. In 2012 there were approximately 89,000 accidental injury-related deaths in homes and communities nationwide.

It goes without saying that good risk management practices could have prevented many of these injuries and deaths. Whether you’re competing in sports or enjoying leisure recreational activities indoors or out, safety should always be a priority. Visit our risk management page for helpful information on keeping you, your teammates, friends and family safe.

Source: Spotlight, Insurance Journal,  04 May, 2015, Vol. 93, No. 9.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/top-10-sports-recreation-injuries/

Bounce House Injuries

Source: sadlersports.com - Bounce House Injuries
Author: John M. Sadler

Lack of safety regulations means bouncer beware

Bounce houses are popular entertainment at carnivals, children’s parties, and other events. But news stories about flyaway bounce houses are becoming all too common.

More than 30 children a day are treated in emergency rooms across the country for inflatable-related injuries, such as broken bones and concussions. There were more than 113,000 injuries and 12 deaths associated with inflatables nationwide between 2003 and 2013, according to a U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report.

Inflatables, which include bounce houses, water slides, and bounce-slide combinations, are not regulated nationally. Each state sets its own guidelines and some, like Florida and Nebraska, have no safety or operational standards in place.

Renters and users should be aware of the guidelines in their state and make sure the company providing the inflatable is practicing them. Ask to see the rental company’s inspection checklist and make sure they followed the printed warning labels when setting up the inflatable.

The Child Injury Prevention Alliance website offers bounce house safety tips for parents and children.

Source: Dan Krauth, “Company Behind Bounce House That Went Airborne Involved in Another Accident,” nbcmiami.com. 08 June, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/bounce-house-injuries/

UF Softball’s Great Bambina

Source: sadlersports.com - UF Softball’s Great Bambina
Author: John M. Sadler

Gator pitcher ties the Babe’s record

University of Florida senior Lauren Haeger tied Babe Ruth’s record of pitching at least 70 winning games and hitting at least 70 home runs. Nicknamed the Haeger Bomb, the Gator pitcher is a wildly popular player who boosted ESPN’s prime-time broadcast of the last three games of the Women’s College World Series to 2 million.

Haeger is idolized by thousands of young softball playing girls who want to be just like her.

“It’s great to be a role model for them and show them it can happen because I was once in their shoes,” said Haeger.

Haeger is a product of the UF athletic program, which is serious about gender equity. Athletic director Jeremy Foley has watched his Gator teams  win the SEC All-Sports Trophy 22 of the last 23 years and 14 national titles since 2008 (more than than any school in the country). The UF women have won 10 national titles in the last five years.

 

Source: Mike Bianchi, “Bianchi: Haeger’s sunflower power is reason Gators softball outdraws NHL,” orlandosentinel.com, 06 June, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/uf-softballs-great-bambina/

MLB and USA Baseball Hit Home Run with Pitch Smart

Source: sadlersports.com - MLB and USA Baseball Hit Home Run with Pitch Smart
Author: John M. Sadler

Program aims to reduce youth pitching injuries

Major League Baseball and USA Baseball recently developed the Pitch Smart compliance program to help identify the youth baseball organizations that have adopted its principles and guidelines.  Pitch Smart offers players, parents and coaches guidelines on avoiding overuse injuries.

Organizations can be designated as being in “full compliance” or “select compliance.”

Organizations in full compliance are required to:

1. follow the Pitch Smart pitch count and rest period guidelines pertaining to pitch counts across all competitions;


2. request that players, coaches and parents follow all additional Pitch Smart guidelines;


3. post or link to the Pitch Smart information on the organization’s website;


4. distribute Pitch Smart information to all coaches;


5. include Pitch Smart information in all formal coaches’ meetings; and


6. encourage parent and player awareness with the inclusion of Pitch Smart information in team orientation meetings.

Organizations in select compliance are required to:

1. follow the Pitch Smart pitch count and rest period guidelines across select competitions;


2. request that players, coaches and parents follow all additional Pitch Smart guidelines;


3. post or link to the Pitch Smart information on the organization’s website;


4. distribute Pitch Smart information to all coaches;


5. have a developed plan and continue to show progress in adopting all of the Pitch Smart full compliance standards standards.

“Education supporters” will also be recognized by the program. These groups help in promoting awareness of the Pitch Smart principles and are making continued efforts toward compliance in the program.

For a full list of organizations in full or select compliance, visit the Pitch Smart website, which also offers information on other pitching risk factors. You can also read more articles related to pitching injuries on our blog.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/mlb-usa-baseball-hit-home-run-pitch-smart/

Treadmills Account for Most Equipment-related Health Club Injuries

Source: sadlersports.com - Treadmills Account for Most Equipment-related Health Club Injuries
Author: Sadler Copywriter

And most are preventable

The treadmill is the riskiest of all workout machines because it has a motor that propels it, unlike ellipticals and stationary bicycles. However, most injuries are minor and deaths, as in the David Goldberg case, are rare.

There were an average of three treadmill-related deaths per year reported between 2003 and 2013, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. There were 24,400 treadmill-related injuries requiring emergency room visits reported in 2014.  There were 62,700 injuries related to exercise equipment, which includes weights, trampolines, swimming pools, and golf clubs. Treadmills account for the largest number of injuries in that category.

Emergency room doctors report that the majority of injuries from sports equipment are associated with overuse, such as an injured tendon from a long run on a treadmill.

Treadmill accidents tend to occur more frequently among older and inexperienced users. Getting instructions on use of the machine is key in avoiding treadmill accidents and consulting with a physician before embarking on treadmill activity is highly recommended for seniors.

Unknown heart problems can surface with exercise, which can cause people to die suddenly while exercising. These types of hidden heart problems can be caused by a genetic abnormality or chronic coronary disease that cannot withstand strenuous exercise. Heart problems account for about 80 percent of sudden deaths in which people collapse and are unable to be resuscitated.

For more information see “Injuries at Gyms and Home.”

Source: Sabrina Tavernise, “Treadmill May Be Riskiest Machine,” nytimes.com, 05 May, 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/treadmills-account-equipmentrelated-health-club-injuries/

Benching of Youth Participants and Resulting Lawsuits

Source: sadlersports.com - Benching of Youth Participants and Resulting Lawsuits
Author: Sadler Copywriter

Parents who pay want their child to play

It’s not yet what you’d call a trend, but there’s certainly an uptick in the number of parents filing lawsuits to get their child off the bench and onto the playing field.

Parents put out big bucks in registrations fees, equipment and travel costs associated with high school and youth club and travel teams, to say nothing of the time they invest attending practices and traveling to games. Many parents sacrifice their time and money for their children hoping to get the attention of college coaches, earn scholarships, and improve chances of college admissions – or even advance a professional athletic career. So, it’s understandable that some are dissatisfied when their child rides the bench more than he or she plays. In other words, they expect a payoff for their investment.

There is also an increase in lawsuits by parents of children who have been cut from teams, injured, disciplined by coaches or penalized by officials. But is hiring an attorney the answer? Many are questioning not only the attitude of entitlement, but how the children, who generally play for the fun and camaraderie, are affected by such lawsuits. What are the children learning when parents step in so heavily handed to smooth the way? Will they learn they’re entitled to play on a team simply because they attend practice? And are parents setting these athletes up to be bullied by other team members?

The increasingly competitive nature of youth sports has helped shift many parents’ focus from fun, exercise and sportsmanship to an investment in their children’s academic and professional futures. Youth sports officials are watching the case of a 16-year-old volleyball player. The girl earned spot on a volleyball league but ended up on the bench, so her parents filed suit against the volleyball association, alleging it won’t let the girl play or to switch teams, per the contract she signed.

General Liability policies, which typically only respond to certain lawsuits alleging bodily injury or property damage, don’t cover these types of lawsuits that allege loss of college scholarship or loss of pro career. Such lawsuits generally require a Professional Liability endorsement on a General Liability policy or a stand alone Professional Liability policy.

Source: Tracey Schelmetic, sportsdestinations.com, 21 Apr. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/benching-youth-participants-resulting-lawsuits/

2015 American Youth Football & Cheer Insurance Program Released

Source: sadlersports.com - 2015 American Youth Football & Cheer Insurance Program Released
Author: John M. Sadler

The gold standard that is the envy of the competition

The American Youth Football and American Youth Cheer endorsed insurance provider, Sadler Sports Insurance, has released the new 2015 insurance program for teams /associations /conferences.  Detailed 2015 coverage and rate information  is now available on our website Our online enrollment became operational on May 16, 2015.

The 2015 offering is, once again, the gold standard in youth football and cheer insurance with an unbeatable combination of low rates, broad custom coverages, and best-in-industry automation that allows instant online enrollment and issuance of proof of coverage documents and certificates for field owners. But that’s not all: the program also provides best-in-industry risk management resources to prevent injuries before they become claims and groundbreaking studies on safety in youth football and cheer.

Apply, pay, and print proof of coverage documents and certificates in as little as 10 minutes

Our advanced automation is so simple and fast that you can complete the entire insurance purchase transaction and print all your documents in as little as 10 minutes. Many competitors require the completion of forms and days of waiting just to get a quote. Then, once the quote is bound, it can take several days to get the proof of coverage document sand certificates for field owners. Or, they could charge $100 extra for next day rush delivery.

After the purchase, we provide our clients access to our website so that they can self-issue certificates for new field owners 24/7. It’s so easy and our clients love this benefit.

Beware of competing programs that seem too good to be true

We often hear stories about a competitor offering cut-rate policies with a per team rate that is too low to be believable. Whenever this happens, something ends up being defective with the offering, which illustrates that if something is too good to be true, it usually is. We’ve seen cases where the quoted price did not include the cost of both the Accident and General Liability policies, where the organization never reported the transaction to the insurance carrier and no insurance was in force, and where a big corporation was going to foot the bill for the insurance (dream on), etc. After a little bit of digging, these schemes fall apart.

What is being done to combat the risk of concussion/brain injury and related litigation?

Sadler Sports Insurance has released a new Football/Cheer Concussion Awareness Risk Management Program (short form) that is strongly recommended for all teams/associations/conferences. This free program can be downloaded from our risk management page. This program consolidates accepted risk management practices into a three-page document for easy board adoption and implementation. An important element of this program is the new Tackle Sure coach training program, which is endorsed by AYF. The cost is $5 per coach and covers effective and safe tackling techniques on a step -by-step basis. It is important for all teams/association/conferences to thicken their shields by adopting and fully implementing a comprehensive concussion/brain injury risk management program. The future of our sports depends on this action and it’s the right thing to do to protect the kids.

What is being done to combat sex abuse/molestation post Sandusky?

We introduced a simple one-page Child Abuse/Molestation Protection Program – Administrators (short form) that, if adopted by your board and fully implemented, will greatly lessen the chances of an incident occurring within your program. The free program can be downloaded from from our risk management page.

Best-in-industry risk management resources (free)

We have an incredible line up of free risk management resources including articles, legal forms, risk management program templates in  Microsoft WORD format for your easy adoption and customization, and training videos for administrators and staff. This includes the newly created document entitled Sample AYF/AYC Advanced Plan, which is a comprehensive risk management program customized for AYF/AYC organizations and is available exclusively to our current clients in the password protected section of our risk management page.

Be a part of groundbreaking injury studies

If you purchase your insurance through the endorsed insurance program, all Accident claims automatically become part of the database where our custom software analyzes the information to produce meaningful injury reports. This has led to groundbreaking studies on  the comparison of injuries in age only vs age/weight categories and the incidence of concussions within AYF/AYC.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/2015-american-youth-football-cheer-insurance-program-released/

Spotlight on Sports Disability Insurance

Source: sadlersports.com - Spotlight on Sports Disability Insurance
Author: John M. Sadler

Lloyd’s of London claim denial based on applicant’s failure to disclose

MARQISE LEE
Photo credit: Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports

A former University of California football player’s landmark lawsuit against Lloyd’s of London is putting almost as much attention on sports disability insurance as the upcoming2015 NFL draft. The suit was filed by Marqise Lee, a former Trojan receiver who alleges Lloyd’s denied the  $4.5 million disability insurance claim filed.

In 2013, potential first-round draft prospect Lee chose to sit out the NFL draft and remain playing for USC for one more year. He purchased loss of value and permanent disability insurance from Lloyd’s that would ensure him the difference between his rookie contract and a baseline of $9.6 million. Lee paid the $94,600 premium using funds from an NCAA-compliant loan taken out specifically for that purpose.

Lee was injured later that season, and was forced to sit out several games and play with injuries the rest of the season. With his draft prospects greatly diminished, he was a second-round pick in 2014 and signed a four-year $5.1 million contract, resulting in the $4.5 million difference he filed for in his claim.

Lloyd’s says Lee misrepresented his injury history by failing to disclose health-related information when he applied for the policy. Lee claims Lloyd’s breached the policy and made the denial in bad faith.

As with any insurance policy, all questions on applications must be completed fully and truthfully. Otherwise, the door is open for the insurance carrier to deny a claim based on fraud in the application. The basis for such denials is that the carrier would have rejected the application or charged a much higher premium had full information been disclosed in response to the question. When gray areas arise when answering application questions, a professional insurance agent can be an invaluable resource to help guide the applicant through this sometimes difficult maze.

Source: Don Jergler, Insurance Journal, 13 Mar. 2015

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/spotlight-sports-disability-insurance/

Innovative sports equipment and safety regulations

Source: sadlersports.com - Innovative sports equipment and safety regulations
Author: John M. Sadler

Weeding through the hype

There’s an abundance of sports equipment manufacturers coming up with innovative products intended to make contact sports safer. The ongoing concern about concussions, particularly among youth athletes, is a focus and big money maker for many of these manufacturers.

As Eric Berman, an advertising and antitrust attorney, points out in a recent article, manufacturers compete for a share in the market by advertising their products’ safety features. However, the claims made by advertisers and marketers and the science they use to bolster those claims will be scrutinized by both regulators and consumers. Berman’s article discusses the false advertising claims recently being denied by a federal judge in the Riddell Revolution helmet case.

Riddell may have prevailed, but manufacturers will be held to the FTC’s new stringent test data retention requirements. It’s important that advertiser claims are supported by science and that all the documented data, test protocols and records for the clinical studies are maintained.

All that is well and good, but the best way to lower the risk of concussions and other sports-related injuries is through risk management and proper technique training based on credible scientific research. We encourage you to read some of our many articles advocating for risk management policies and concussion education. A perfect example is our promotion of the American Youth Football-endorsed TackleSure training program that introduces youth football coaches to the correct tackling technique and terminology, teaches drills that reinforce each aspect of the technique, and demonstrates the step-by-step coaching process in the field.

Don’t count on technology to provide the safety you can achieve using common sense and proven methods.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/innovative-sports-equipment-safety-regulations/

Attorneys Soliciting Concussed High School Football Players

Source: sadlersports.com - Attorneys Soliciting Concussed High School Football Players
Author: John M. Sadler

A profile of the perfect client for attorneys

We recently came across an article published by a law firm seeking to educate (and solicit) readers about high school football players filing lawsuits against their school after suffering a concussion.

Here are the points that can trigger a successful lawsuit according to the law firm:

• Athlete was not removed from the field as soon as concussion symptoms were observed


• Athlete was not evaluated by a medical professional and returned to play, and/or


• Athlete received medical treatment but returned to play without written clearance by the evaluating medical professional, or


• Athlete’s coach did not receive concussion management training prior to the injury.

Avoiding lawsuits through risk management

All 50 states and the District of Columbia have passed concussion laws that pertain to high school athletes. The goal of the laws is to prevent concussions from happening and to reduce the risk of long-term consequences. These laws require school districts to develop policies concerning athletes suffering concussions or traumatic brain injuries during school-related activities.

In addition, the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has published recommended guidelines for concussion and brain injury risk management.

The various state laws and the NFHS recommended guidelines cover all the areas of concern listed in the profile of the perfect client for attorneys. It’s simple: follow the rules that are the standard of care and avoid most of the real liability potential. Ignore the rules or halfheartedly enforce them and you will dilute the strength of your legal defense.

We have more concussion-related information, including the signs and symptoms of concussion.

Source: “Brain Injury Lawsuits and High School Athletes,” jdsupra.com, 24 Feb. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/attorneys-soliciting-concussed-high-school-football-players/

Football Leagues Ignoring Brain Injury Standards...

Source: sadlersports.com - Football Leagues Ignoring Brain Injury Standards...
Author: John M. Sadler

do so at their own peril

If your youth tackle football league and its directors, officers, and coaches are sued as a result of a brain injury to a current or past participant, under what standard of care will you be judged?

The law of negligence is based on four elements:

1. Duty is owed to act as reasonable and prudent youth tackle football and cheer administrators and coaches by following the national standard of care regarding to concussion/brain injury protection.


2. Duty is breached by not following the national standard of care.


3. The breach is the cause of the injury.


4. Damages result.

 As regards the standard of care, the courts will look to expert witnesses who will testify that the standards of care are set by the recommendations of the governing body (USA Football), National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS), and state concussion laws.

We have designed a concussion/brain injury risk management program for our American Youth Football and Cheer (AYF) clients that addresses most of the standards that have been set by these organizations and state legislation. See our Football/Cheer Concussion Awareness Risk Management Program (short form) in our risk management library.

If you want to see how standards work in an actual brain injury litigation case, see the synopsis and summary of the pending Chernach vs. Pop Warner lawsuit by a law firm specializing in brain injury litigation. Ask yourself how you think your local association would fare in its legal defense if a similar claim were to be filed? In my opinion, most of the allegations in this lawsuit seem to be without merit, though legal defense costs will be high. Very few of the concussion standards were in place at the time of the alleged injury and the plaintiff was exposed to high school football and 12 years of wrestling in addition to youth tackle football.

However, concussion brain injury standards are certainly in place now. Ignore the standards at your own peril.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/football-leagues-ignoring-brain-injury-standards/

State Concussion Laws

Source: sadlersports.com - State Concussion Laws
Author: John M. Sadler

Review of 51 laws highlights protection gaps

The NFL helped bring about the most positive concussion news in recent years by helping all 50 states and the District of Columbia to pass laws aimed at protecting youth athletes from head injuries. But many are now asking if those laws carry enough weight.

A recent review by the Associated Press of the 51 concussion laws found that approximately 33 percent made no reference to any ages or grade levels covered. Even fewer make explicit reference to both interscholastic sports and recreation leagues. Some state laws clearly cover public and private schools, some only reference public schools, and others lack any such wording. And any mention of penalties for non-compliant schools and leagues is absent in nearly all.

Missing the mark of the original goal

Washington state passed the first concussion law in 2009. That law calls for coach education on concussion symptoms, removing players from games for suspected head injuries,  return-to-play clearance, and required parent/player signed concussion information forms.

The AP review found that only 21 of the laws include all four of the required components in Washington’s bill, which served as the  model for other states’ legislation. Laws in only 34 states mandate return to play/practice only upon written clearance by a health care provider trained in the evaluation and management of concussions. And only 30 require concussion information forms be signed by athletes and their parent/guardian.

Headline media coverage of concussion issues resulted in states passing concussion laws quickly. However, concerns about the cost of enforcing the laws resulted in many being ultimately weaker than originally intended, according to Jay Rodne, a Washington state representative who sponsored the original bill.

Where things stand

The NFL admits that in some states compromises were made in some states to get laws on the books. This resulted in “A ‘B’-level law, as opposed to an ‘A’-level law,” according to Jeff Miller of the  NFL’s health and safety policy. It’s always possible to go back and amend the laws, said Miller. He points out that the passage of these laws has resulted in a growing awareness of concussion safety protocols and risk management among players, parents, coaches, and team/league administrators and concussion treatment.

We invite you to read more of our articles on concussion risk management and research.

Source:  Howard Fendrich and Eddie Pells, “Youth Concussion Laws Pushed By NFL Are Not Enough,” huffingtonpost.com, 28 Jan. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/state-concussion-laws/

High School Football Benefits vs. Risks

Source: sadlersports.com - High School Football Benefits vs. Risks
Author: Sadler Copywriter

Contrarian voices ignored by media, advocacy groups, and most researchers

Concerns about concussions and other head injuries have a lot of parents debating about whether or not to allow their children to play high school football. But I have been stating for quite some time that I don’t think youth or high school football is doomed and believe that there is credible evidence that recent initiatives on coach/player/parent education, state laws, and brain injury risk management plans are already having a positive impact.

Unfortunately, my opinion isn’t shared by everyone, despite the evidence.

However, I recently came across an opinion piece that I would describe as the contrary voice of sanity amid a sea of sensationalism spurred by the media, advocacy groups, and most researchers. In short, these groups very much need tackle football to be considered dangerous because that is good for business, at least in the short term. There is no denying that advocacy groups and researchers are just doing their job and have provided a valuable service with the heightened awareness of this very real risk. But too often they draw conclusions which are just not backed by good science, at least for youth and high school football. Furthermore, the media is more interested in publishing the reports that will shock their audience as opposed to those with a contrarian view.

The author of the article, who is a father and physician, speaks to that in detail, but also eloquently points out the beneficial aspects of playing football.

Most of the media hype is centered around the NFL concussion lawsuits, the basis of which have nothing to do with youth athletes. The recent Boston University study about increased risks to NFL players who played youth football before age 12 is scientifically flawed. It doesn’t take into account other high risk behaviors of NFL players and there was no control group. Even the researchers admit the limitations of their study. Science and hard facts are what should drive a parent’s decision making on whether a child should or shouldn’t play football. The potential for injury, which is minimal at the youth and high school level, is only one element to consider.

Apparently, the emotional tide is beginning to turn, as the number of high school football participants is slowly rising. As a risk management expert, I encourage you to read Ed Riley’s “High school football’s benefits outweigh the risks” and consider the points he raises. And if, like me, you see the sense he makes, please share it with others.

We have more more posts on this topic on our blog.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/high-school-football-benefits-risks/

Boundary Dispute Fells Little League Champs

Source: sadlersports.com - Boundary Dispute Fells Little League Champs
Author: John M. Sadler

When adults cheat, it’s the kids who pay

Fraud and cheating occur too frequently in government, business, education, mediaand, sadly, even youth sports organizations.

Little League stripped the Jackie Robinson West team of its U.S. championship and suspended its coach for violating the league’s team boundary rule. In what can only be called a team-building effort, team officials altered a league map that determines the areas from which players can be recruited.

In addition to the team being relieved of its international tournament wins, the team manager was suspended the administrator of Illinois District 4 was removed. But it was the players, who were unaware of the team’s manipulation, who paid the highest price. Mountain Ridge Little League was awarded the championship.

It was an agonizing decision but critical in upholding the integrity of Little League, according to Stephen Keener, Little League International president and CEO.

Over the past 10 years, a number of Sadler Sports Insurance sports league clients were sued over boundary disputes involving the eligibility of a particular player (usually a superstar). Disqualification of an ineligible player by a sanctioning body prior to a tournament can result in a legal challenge for injunctive relief asking to halt the tournament until the judge can rule on eligibility. Due to the legal expenses and inconvenience involved, it is recommended that sanctioning bodies have tight boundary rules that are not subject to alternate interpretations. And, of course, they must always follow their own rules when making a decision.

Source: Tom Farrey, “Little League punishes Chicago team,” espn.go.com. 11 Feb. 2015.

Read Full Story: http://www.sadlersports.com/blog/boundary-dispute-fells-league-champs/