WSYSA Risk Management Director
As summer approaches many clubs consider hosting soccer camps and friendly competitions. While this may be one of the best ways to condition your team or teams with soccer camps and friendlies, clubs need to be aware that these camps are not covered under WSYSA Rules.
The WSYSA Administrative Handbook contains the Bylaws and Rules of our organization. A quick perusal of Rule 207 shows that “The WSYSA Insurance Program is valid for only sanctioned youth soccer activities.” Also, Rule 209 says in part “….WSYSA Insurance is not in effect in case of non-sanctioned play involving non-affiliated teams.”
Outside vendors who advertise in PlayOn! are not endorsed by WSYSA. Since these vendors are all private companies, clubs must be aware that any camps or symposiums conducted by these vendors on behalf of the clubs are not WSYSA-sanctioned events.
There are three implications to this information:
1. WSYSA does not do any routine Risk Management background checks on individuals working for these vendors;
2. WSYSA liability insurance does not apply at these events;
3. Secondary medical coverage provided by WSYSA is not in-force.
Clubs need to take this into consideration when contracting with the various vendors and should make sure that the vendor has adequate liability coverage for the venue. As stated on the current Liability certificates, “All operations of Washington State Youth Soccer Association and their registered members.”; because outside vendors are not part of WSYSA, WSYSA liability insurance is not in force. In addition, clubs should ensure that the vendor has used due diligence as far as the history of their employees. Since no secondary medical is available, clubs should make parents aware of this fact.
As the new season approaches, we will have many new coaches added to our ranks and as always it is time to remind clubs and associations about goal post safety. Please, do not make your own goals to save a couple of dollars. When an individual or club takes on the task of building goals they also assume the risk of what is known as a “Manufacturers Warranty”; this not only could endanger your livelihood but also an individual's financial well being.
For a quick primer on Goal Post safety check out the Consumers Product Safety Commission Safety Alert at http://www.cpsc.gov/CPSCPUB/PUBS/5118.html . This gives a brief education on anchoring and the dangers of unanchored goals. Further information is available from the CPSC web site by doing a search on soccer goals.
This is just some food for thought as the summer season starts. As always, I am available to answer any and all of your questions and concerns regarding soccer safety. Enjoy your summer and above all stay safe and have FUN!