CDC Releases Guidelines on Youth Sports Safety

Children are excited to start playing organized sports again, but it should be noted that this season is going to be different from their previous seasons.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has released updated guidelines for youth sports safety in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. If you are a coach or parent, you want to keep the following guidelines in mind for the upcoming season.

The CDC encourages us to follow the guidelines we have been following for months to maintain our health. Everyone should be washing their hands for at least 20 seconds, as well as using hand sanitizer as needed. It is also important to practice social distancing even in the locker room, and you should stay home if you are showing symptoms or not feeling well. If you test positive for the Coronavirus, you need to self-isolate until you are cleared by a medical professional.

Following the guidelines also means learning what to avoid in terms of greeting or celebrating. The guidelines recommend avoiding handshakes, high-fives and fist bumps. In addition, players should not share equipment, apparel or towels, nor should they spit. Remember, direct contact and droplets help to spread the Coronavirus, and spreading the virus could cause a pause on another sports season.

As a parent or coach, you also need to reduce contact and gatherings to slow the spread of bacteria. Start by limiting contact between players both in and out of the venue as much as possible. One way to limit contact and interaction is to create smaller groups within teams. It is also important to limit travel to keep everyone safe. Limited travel may result in fewer games during the season, but it is better to be safe than sorry, especially during a pandemic.

In many states, face masks are mandatory inside establishments, but they may not be mandatory while spending time outside. It is up to the coaches to decide if their players need to wear masks, and this may depend on different factors of the specific sport. While it may be optional for players to wear masks, it is important for coaches and spectators to wear them to slow the spread.

It is not enough for coaches to learn the CDC guideline updates for COVID-19. As a coach, you need to ensure players and parents are aware of the new guidelines, so they can be sure to follow them throughout the season. Everyone can also let those who want to join the team or attend the games know of the guidelines. This way, you are taking the necessary steps to ensure everyone is washing their hands, sanitizing and social distancing.

If you want to create a safe environment for your players, their parents and other spectators, it is important to keep the above CDC guidelines in mind. Following the guidelines ensures you are not going to put a damper on your youth sports season.