Waiver, Policies, SAM Act, Concussion Info, COVID-19

Amature Athletic Waiver and Release of Liability

Download, save to your device, read fully, complete the waiver if you agree & then email it to chrisfsu2121@msn.com.

AMATEUR ATHLETIC WAIVER AND RELEASE OF LIABILITY


Concussion Management Policy

Concussion Management Policy for Adult Volleyball Leagues and Tournaments (Michigan).
This Concussion Management Policy (the “Policy”) is adopted by Volleyball Crawl, LLC (the “League” and “Tournaments”) to promote safety and well-being of all participants in our adult volleyball leagues (the “Leagues” and “Tournaments”) and to comply with Michigan House Bill 4317 of 2016 (the “Law”).
1. Policy Statement
The League recognizes the seriousness of concussions and is committed to creating a safe playing environment that reduces the risk of concussions and ensures the proper management of any suspected concussions.
2. Education

  • The League and tournament website provides educational materials to all players, coaches, and officials regarding concussions, including:
    • Signs and symptoms of concussions
    • Importance of immediate removal from play following a suspected concussion
    • Concussion recovery process
    • Risks of returning to play too soon
  • Educational materials may include website downloads, PDF’s, handouts, posters displayed at playing venues, and pre-season informational sessions.
  • 3. Recognition and Removal from Play
  • Any player who exhibits signs or symptoms of a concussion, either reported by the player themselves, observed by a coach, official, teammate, or spectator, will be immediately removed from play.
  • Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include:
    • Headache
    • Dizziness
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Confusion
    • Difficulty concentrating
    • Loss of consciousness (brief)
    • Balance problems
    • Sensitivity to light or sound
    • Feeling foggy or slow
  • 4. Return to Play Protocol
  • A player who has been removed from play due to a suspected concussion must be cleared by a licensed healthcare professional trained in concussion evaluation and management before returning to play (a minimum of 48 hours later).
  • The League recommends following a healthcare professional’s guidance on returning to play, which typically involves a graduated return-to-play protocol that gradually increases activity levels with symptom monitoring.
    5. Emergency Action Plan
  • The League will have a written emergency action plan in place for responding to a suspected concussion, including:
    • Procedures for contacting emergency medical services if necessary
    • Designation of individuals responsible for implementing the concussion removal from play protocol
  • 6. Reporting
  • Players are encouraged to report any suspected concussions to a coach, official, or League representative immediately.
  • League officials will maintain records of all reported suspected concussions, including the date of injury, player name, and any relevant information from the healthcare professional regarding return to play.
    7. Bystander Intervention
  • The League encourages all participants, including players, coaches, officials, and spectators, to be aware of the signs and symptoms of concussions and to intervene if they suspect a player has sustained a concussion.
  • Bystanders should report any suspected concussions to a League official or encourage the player to seek medical evaluation.
    8. Confidentiality
  • All medical information regarding suspected concussions will be kept confidential as permitted by law.
    9. Training
  • League officials, such as coaches and referees, are encouraged to complete concussion recognition and management training programs.
    10. Compliance
  • All participants in the League, including players, coaches, and officials, are required to comply with this Policy.
  • Violation of this Policy may result in disciplinary action, up to and including suspension or expulsion from the League.
    11. Disclaimer
  • This Policy is intended to provide general information only and does not constitute medical advice.
  • Players are always encouraged to consult with a licensed healthcare professional for any questions or concerns regarding concussions.
    12. Review
  • The League will review this Policy periodically and update it as necessary to comply with changes in the Law or to reflect best practices in concussion management.
    Additional Resources
  • Michigan Head Injury Coalition: [Michigan Head Injury Coalition ON Michigan Head Injury Coalition michiganheadinjury.org]
  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC): [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Concussion ON Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (.gov) cdc.gov]

Volleyball Crawl, LLC – Abuse Prevention Procedure and Protocols

Introduction

Volleyball Crawl, LLC (“Volleyball Crawl”) is committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment for all participants in our adult volleyball leagues and tournaments. This document outlines our Abuse Prevention Procedure and Protocols to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Definitions

  • Abuse: Any behavior that demeans, threatens, or harms another person. This includes, but is not limited to, verbal abuse, harassment, bullying, physical violence, and discrimination.
  • Participant: This includes any player, coach, spectator, referee, staff member, or volunteer involved in a Volleyball Crawl event.

Reporting Abuse

If you experience or witness any form of abuse during a Volleyball Crawl event, we encourage you to report it immediately. Reports can be made in the following ways:

  • In Person: Report the incident directly to a Volleyball Crawl staff member or referee. They will be readily identifiable by their branded uniforms or shirts.
  • By Email: Send an email to chrisfsu2121@msn.com with details of the incident.
  • By Phone: 248-425-6314

Investigation Process

All reported incidents of abuse will be taken seriously and investigated promptly. The investigation process will involve:

  • Gathering Information: We will gather information from the reporting party, any witnesses, and the alleged abuser.
  • Reviewing Evidence: This may include reviewing video footage or social media posts, if available.
  • Taking Action: Depending on the severity of the incident, Volleyball Crawl may take disciplinary action, which may include warnings, suspension, or permanent removal from our events.

Confidentiality

We understand the importance of confidentiality, especially for victims of abuse. We will keep the identities of reporting parties confidential to the fullest extent possible.

Bystander Intervention

We encourage all participants to be active bystanders. If you see someone being abused, intervene in a safe manner or report the incident to a Volleyball Crawl staff member. Here are some tips for bystander intervention:

  • Directly Address the Abuser: If you feel safe, calmly and firmly tell the abuser to stop their behavior.
  • Distract and De-escalate: Create a distraction to separate the victim and the abuser.
  • Report the Incident: Report the abuse to a Volleyball Crawl staff member or use one of the reporting methods mentioned above.

Commitment to a Safe Environment

Volleyball Crawl is committed to fostering a culture of respect and sportsmanship. We believe that everyone deserves to participate in our events without fear of abuse. We will continue to review and update these procedures as needed.

Thank you for your cooperation in helping us create a safe and enjoyable environment for all.

Volleyball Crawl, LLC

If you have any questions about these Abuse Prevention Procedure and Protocols, please contact us at 248-425-6314 or chrisfsu2121@msn.com.

Version: 03-28-24


Volleyball Crawl, LLC – Safe Sport Act (SAM) Education Policy

Introduction
Volleyball Crawl, LLC (“Volleyball Crawl”) is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all participants in our adult volleyball leagues and tournaments. In line with this commitment, we are implementing a Safe Sport Act (SAM) education policy for all staff members and volunteers involved in our events.

What is the Safe Sport Act (SAM)?
The Safe Sport Act is a federal law enacted in 2017 that requires certain amateur sports organizations to implement policies to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse. While Volleyball Crawl primarily focuses on adult leagues and tournaments, we recognize the importance of protecting all participants and fostering a culture of safety.

SAM Education Requirements
All Volleyball Crawl staff members and volunteers, regardless of their direct interaction with minors, will be required to complete the following SAM education courses:

Protecting Young Athletes: This online course from the U.S. Center for SafeSport provides an overview of the Safe Sport Act, how to recognize and report child sexual abuse, and best practices for creating a safe environment.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) Awareness: This course equips staff and volunteers with the knowledge and skills to respond to a sudden cardiac arrest emergency.

Completion Deadlines
New staff members and volunteers will be required to complete the SAM education courses before starting their duties.
Existing staff and volunteers will be required to complete the courses by 48 hours of employment.
Verification and Recordkeeping

Volleyball Crawl will maintain records of all staff and volunteer SAM education completions. Periodic reminders will be sent to ensure everyone stays up-to-date on required courses.

Benefits of SAM Education
By implementing this policy, Volleyball Crawl aims to achieve the following:
Increase awareness of child sexual abuse and its prevention.
Equip staff and volunteers with the knowledge and tools to report suspected abuse.
Create a safer environment for all participants, regardless of age.
Conclusion

Volleyball Crawl believes that everyone deserves to participate in our events without fear of abuse. By implementing this SAM education policy, we are taking a proactive step towards creating a safe and positive environment for everyone involved.

We appreciate your cooperation in helping us achieve this goal.

Volleyball Crawl, LLC

If you have any questions regarding this policy or the SAM education requirements, please contact us at 248-425-6314 or chrisfsu2121@msn.com.

Version: 03-28-24


Child Abuse Reporting System

Introduction
Volleyball Crawl, LLC is committed to protecting the safety and well-being of children. We take all allegations of child abuse seriously and have established a reporting system to ensure compliance with mandated reporting requirements under the Michigan Child Abuse and Neglect Reporting Law.

Who is a Mandated Reporter?
If you are unsure whether you are a mandated reporter, please err on the side of caution and report the suspected abuse.

What is Considered Child Abuse?
Child abuse is defined as any act or series of acts that endangers the physical or emotional health or welfare of a child.

This includes, but is not limited to:
Physical abuse
Sexual abuse
Neglect
Emotional abuse
How to Report Suspected Abuse

24/7 Reporting Options:
Phone: Child Abuse Reporting Hotline at 1-800-942-4357. Trained personnel are available 24/7 to receive your report. This number connects you with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS). They will then connect you with the local county DHS office for filing your report.
Online Reporting System: Michigan recently launched an online system for mandated reporters to file reports: https://www.michigan.gov/mde/services/ed-serv/educator-conduct/mandated-reporting
National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453) – While not specific to Michigan, this hotline can connect you with resources and help you file a report.

What Information is Needed?
Child’s name (if known) and age
Nature of suspected abuse
Details of the incident (date, location, witnesses)
Reporter’s information (name, contact details)
Confidentiality

All reports of suspected child abuse will be kept confidential to the fullest extent permitted by law.

Additional Resources
National Child Abuse Hotline: 1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)

Training
Help identify signs of child abuse and neglect, and the reporting procedures.

We encourage you to report any suspected child abuse immediately. Your report could help to protect a child from further harm.

Volleyball Crawl, LLC

Chrisfsu2121@msn.com
248-425-6314


COVID-19 & other Health Information:

All Players/ Participants are required to complete and return a signed waiver form before attending or participating in any events. Download the waiver form & save it to your computer by clicking here. Completed forms should be emailed to chrisfsu2121@msn.com.

What you need to know:
Perform a self-health check prior to leaving home which includes answering the Health Status Questions and performing a temperature check. If you fail to answer no to all questions or have a temperature of 100.4 or higher, STAY HOME.
Stay home if you feel sick or have been near anyone with COVID-19 or other illnesses. If you feel you are at risk, STAY HOME.
Players should bring their own equipment (balls, braces, drinks, towels, hand sanitizer, etc) if possible.
Wear a mask whenever possible.
Players should clean their hands before and after practices, games, and sharing equipment.
If you don’t feel well after entering the facility: Exit the facility immediately, seek medical attention as needed. As soon as possible call 248-425-6314 or (248) 791-7944 to inform a staff member.
Everyone must complete the COVID-19 Responsibility and Release Agreement/ Waiver before participating in any activities at any of our facilities. An online waiver is highly encouraged over a paper copy. We will have a sign with the link to fill out on their own personal electronic device if they have not done so upon arriving.

If you answer YES to any of the following health status questions, do NOT come to the facility & advise your team to find a sub as needed.
1. Do you have any of the following?
  □ Fever or chills
  1a. People who have symptoms of acute respiratory illness are recommended to notify their team members by phone and stay home until they are free of fever (100.4° F [38.0° C] or greater using an oral thermometer), have signs of a fever, and any other symptoms for at least 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing or other symptom-altering medicines (e.g. cough suppressants).
  □ Cough
  □ Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
  □ Fatigue
  □ Muscle or body aches
  □ Headache
  □ New loss of taste or smell
  □ Sore throat
  □ Congestion or runny nose
  □ Nausea or vomiting
  □ Diarrhea
2. Are you ill, or caring for someone who is ill, or have you been exposed to anyone diagnosed with COVID-19?
  • People who are well but who have been exposed to a person or a sick family member at home with COVID-19 should not enter the building for at least 15 days after exposure of a positive person
  • If any person is confirmed to have COVID-19, that person should inform league coordinators & facility management of their possible exposure to COVID-19 in the facility but maintain confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If you have one or more symptom(s) that may be related to COVID-19 stay home and take care of yourself. Contact 911 if needed.

Reduce physical closeness between players when possible:
Maintain at least 6 feet between yourself and your teammates, other competitors, and officials while actively participating in the sport.
Avoid high fives, handshakes, fist bumps or hugs.
Wait in car or away from the playing area until just before the warm-up period or the beginning of the game.
Avoid congregating inside before or after games.
If it is not possible to avoid congregating, practice social distancing by ensuring there is at least 6 feet between participants.
If social distancing is not possible, wear a mask whenever possible to reduce risk of virus transmission.
NO spectators are allowed inside the facility.

Higher intensity sports: People who are engaged in high intensity activities, like running, may not be able to wear a mask if it causes difficulty breathing.
If unable to wear a mask, consider conducting the activity in a location with greater ventilation and air exchange (for instance, outdoors versus indoors) and where it is possible to maintain physical distance from others.
In situations where individuals might raise their voices, such as shouting or chanting, we strongly encourage wearing masks.
It is not known if face shields provide any benefit as source control to protect others from the spray of respiratory particles. CDC does not recommend use of face shields for normal everyday activities or as a substitute for masks.
Do not share of equipment or gear

Limit the use of frequently touched surfaces on the field, court, or play surface.
Bring your own water to minimize use and touching of drinking fountains.
Clean and disinfect shared items between use.
Don’t share towels, clothing, or any items used to wipe your face or hands.
Avoid sharing food, drink containers (e.g., coolers), and utensils.
Minimize spitting. Cover your coughs and sneezes.
When coughing or sneezing, use a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Used tissues should be thrown away and hands washed immediately with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol.
If soap and water are not readily available, hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can be used.
Wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with 60% alcohol (do it often). Before and after you play.
Before adjusting your mask—review information about proper use, removal, and washing of masks.
Only participants, coaches and essential staff will be permitted into the building during training until future notice.

In all cases & at all times please refer to state, local and government recommendations on COVID-19 and all other health risks.

For a full list of mitigation measures see the following resources:

CDC Information on Playing Sports

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/youth-sports.htmlhttps://www.michigan.gov/documents/coronavirus/Youth_Sports_Informed_Choice_06_24_2020_695135_7.docx

For the latest information on Michigan’s response to COVID-19, please visit
Michigan.gov/Coronavirus. You may also call the COVID-19 Hotline at 888-535-6136 or email COVID-19@michigan.gov.

https://www.michigan.gov/whitmer/0,9309,7-387-90499_90705-535105–,00.html