As a non-profit organization the Mechanicsville Braves Youth Football and Cheer Club (MBYFCC) relies on registration results to budget/pay for operating expenses such as the following (but not limited to):

Equipment expenses
Field expenses
Officiating expenses
Insurance expenses

Once a player registers, the process begins to secure your child’s equipment and safety needs.
Please note refunds will only be given if requested in writing within 30 days of registering for a MBYFC activity. After 7 days of an individual’s registration date, only 50% of the amount paid will be refunded. Refunds will not be granted due to change of address/relocation, injury or disinterest.
All refunds will undergo board review and require a minimum of one week to process. Refunds may be subject to a $25 processing fee.

After July 1st no refund of any kind will be granted for the Tackle and Cheer programs. In addition no refunds after April 1st will be granted for the Flag Football program.

In addition to the guidelines set forth by St. Mary's Recreation and Parks, going forward the MBYFCC will not allow drone usage at any MBYFCC sponsored event at Fifth District Park. MBYFCC is enforcing this to ensure the saftey of all of the patrons that visit Fifth District Park during a Braves event.

St. Mary's Recreation and Parks Guidlines
Remote Controlled Vehicles
Drones in Parks and Other Activities
Counties are prohibited from regulating drone activity in the parks.
1. There are two areas of concern for staff to monitor.
a. Drones should not be flown over park users
b. Based on the FAA Guidelines and due to the proximity to the NAS Pax River Naval Base,
the following parks are off limits to drones: Carver Recreation Center and ballfield area;
Chancellor’s Run Regional; Lancaster; Lexington Manor Passive Park and Nicolet.
2. Activities brought in to the Parks and Facilities must not interfere with other people or activities.

From this date forward, no participant shall be allowed to play at a level higher than their appropriate age group. Exceptions to this rule are players who have participated in a higher age bracket prior to the date of this documents inception or in instances where there are low participant numbers for a particular age group resulting in the combining of ages to field a viable team. In instances of combining age groups all parents/guardians will be notified and will be allotted the opportunity to withdraw from the current season commitment with full refund minus a processing fee of 3% if registered online.

OBJECTIVE

This policy is written to ensure a balanced mix of sportsmanship, recreation, skill development, and competitive activity in keeping with the Mechanicsville Braves Football & Cheer Club, Inc. (MBYFCC) Purpose Statement.

Purpose Statement:

The purpose of the organization per the purpose statement are:

A.       To promote and encourage participation in youth football & cheerleading.

B.       To promote good sportsmanship while ensuring that proper training, instruction, safety, and equipment are furnished to participants.

C.       To instruct participants in the fundamentals of football and cheerleading.

D.       To allow participants to grow as athletes.

E.        To instill in the participants through leadership the highest standards of sportsmanship.

F.        To provide a safe environment and equipment for children to participate in football and cheerleading.

G.       To make a positive difference in the life of a child.

Principles:

The principles of the organization are as follows:

A.                  All players, coaches, officials, parents, and spectators will be treated fairly and with respect.

B.                  Retention of athletes is a key measure of success.

C.                  Players will be provided with the highest quality training and coaching that NWAHA can supply.

D.                 Parents play an extremely important role in the development of young athletes.

E.                  All activities and actions sanctioned by the MBYFCC will be conducted in an open and transparent manner.

F.                   The MBYFCC openly accepts criticism and complaints and will effectively and fairly resolve these issues consistent with our Purpose Statement.

G.                 The goal of the MBYFCC is continuous improvement. As deviations from our purpose are noted, we will look for the underlying problem and make the necessary adjustments to ensure that we are abiding by the standards and goals of our Purpose Statement.

CODES OF CONDUCT

The MBYFCC values sportsmanship, fair play, skill development, and mutual respect among all players, coaches, officials, and spectators. The Codes of Conduct have been established and adopted to ensure the guiding principles of the MBYFCC are understood and met by all individuals associated with this

organization.

The Codes of Conduct for coaches, participants, parents, and spectators will be thoroughly discussed at the pre-season coach’s clinic(s). In addition, this Disciplinary Policy and all Codes of Conduct will be available on the MBYFCC website for review and will be a part of required documentation review during the online registration process.

The following codes of conduct will be strictly enforced.

MBYFCC Coaches Code of Conduct

To ensure the principles of sportsmanship, fair play, skill development, and mutual respect among players, coaches, officials, and spectators are the primary considerations governing competition in the Mechanicsville Braves Youth Football & Cheerleading Club (MBYFCC), the following Code of Conduct has been established:

1.      I acknowledge that my primary responsibility is to foster the stated purpose of the club which is to promote a healthy, pleasant, and safe environment for youth to participate in football and cheer.

2.      I will:

a.      fully abide by the policies, rules, and guidelines as set forth in the Bylaws.

b.      respect the game officials and refrain from communicating with them in an abusive manner.

c.       encourage MBYFCC team fans to always conduct themselves with sportsmanship and maturity while in attendance at all club functions, i.e., games, practices, etc.

d.      always refrain from remarks, criticisms, or actions that may be detrimental and cause loss of respect and/or integrity of the MBYFCC or any of its participants.

e.      assist the game officials in maintaining control of spectators during games.

f.        emphasize that good athletes are good students, and both are physically and mentally alert.

g.      not criticize players in front of spectators.

h.      strive to make every football activity serve as a training ground for life and as a basis for good mental and physical health.

i.        emphasize that winning a game is the result of teamwork.

j.        not use abusive or profane language while participating in activities of the club or while representing the MBYFCC.

k.       refrain from “running up” the score against an opponent. This includes always keeping in the first line defense.

l.        not be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs while participating in activities of the club or while representing the MBYFCC.

m.    always set an example in personal conduct.

n.      not smoke or use any form of tobacco to include vaping while on the field of play during games, scrimmages, or practices.

o.      treat each player, opposing coach, parent and commissioner with respect and dignity.

p.      learn the strengths and weaknesses of each player to place them into situations where each has a maximum opportunity to achieve success.

q.      protect the health and safety of each player by insisting that all the activities under his/her control be conducted for their psychological and physiological welfare, rather than in the interest of adults.

r.       not knowingly allow a player to be included on a roster or play in a game that does not meet all the eligibility rules. 

s.       ensure that either I or someone on my staff has a current CPR certification.

3.      I fully understand that the game of football should be a fun, rewarding, and positive learning experience for all participants, and playing time is key to providing that experience for my players.

4.      I agree to take a 24 hour “cooling off” period before addressing any issues from a game.

5.      I agree to notify a game official of the possibility of game or player protest at said games end. I will then notify a member of the Braves board of directors (BOD) immediately following said game if I have strong evidence to bring forth for a game or player protest. I will supply all evidence to the Braves BOD within 24 hours of games end.  If sufficient evidence is found after BOD review, the club President will submit an official protest to the SMYAC BOD (or MBYFCC BOD – if Spring flag) within 48 hours of games end. I understand that all protests are to be kept confidential between the coaching staff and the Braves BOD. Coaches will be notified by a Braves board member once official ruling has been made by the SMYAC board (or MBYFCC BOD – if Spring flag) on said protest.

6.      I understand that all official protests will only be presented to SMYAC by an official MBYFCC board member and will always be made in the best interest of the entire organization.

7.      I understand that all decisions to present protest to the SMYAC BOD will be made by the MBYFCC BOD and all decisions for or against protest are final.

8.      I agree to adhere to the guidelines set forth in the Extreme Heat and/or Inclement Weather Policy.

9.      Regarding social media and networking, I will “Think before I speak, act, type or tweet.”  I will avoid posting material that is defamatory, obscene, profane, threatening, abusive, harassing or targeted toward any person or entity within the organization and its leadership, customers, suppliers, and competitors.

10.  I understand that if I violate any of the standards within the coach’s code of conduct, I may be subject to disciplinary action or removal from the club and all its activities for a period or permanently based on the club disciplinary policy.

11.  I accept and support the principles established by the Code of Conduct and will abide by the Code of Conduct for the entire duration of my participation with the MBYFCC.

I understand that this Code of Conduct will remain in effect for one (1) year from date of signature.

MBYFCC Participant Code of Conduct

To ensure the principles of sportsmanship, fair play, skill development, and mutual respect among players, coaches, officials, and spectators are the primary considerations governing competition in the Mechanicsville Braves Youth Football & Cheerleading Club (MBYFCC), the following Code of Conduct has been established:

1.      I will:

a.      fully abide by the policies, rules, and guidelines as set forth in the Bylaws.

b.      respect the game officials and refrain from communicating with them in an abusive manner.

c.       always refrain from remarks, criticisms, or actions that may be detrimental and cause loss of respect and/or integrity of the MBYFCC or any of its participants.

d.      consistently work to improve teamwork.

e.      always set an example in personal conduct.

f.        not smoke or use any form of tobacco to include vaping while on the field of play during games, scrimmages, or practices.

g.      learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league.

h.      be a positive role model for my teammate and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice, or other club event.

i.        not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; and refrain from using profane language or gestures.

j.        not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and wellbeing of the participants.

k.       play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

l.        treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.

m.    never ridicule or yell at other participants for making a mistake or losing a competition.

2.      Regarding social media and networking, I will “Think before I speak, act, type or tweet.”  I will avoid posting material that is defamatory, obscene, profane, threatening, abusive, harassing or targeted toward any person or entity within the organization and its leadership, customers, suppliers, and competitors.

3.      I understand that if I violate any of the standards within the participant code of conduct, I may be subject to disciplinary action or removal from the club and all its activities for a period or permanently based on the club disciplinary policy.

4.      I fully understand that the game of football and cheer should be a fun, rewarding, and positive learning experience for all participants.

5.      I agree to take a 24 hour “cooling off” period before addressing any issues from a game or practice.

6.      I accept and support the principles established by the Code of Conduct and will abide by the Code of Conduct for the entire duration of my participation with the MBYFCC.

I understand that this Code of Conduct will remain in effect for one (1) year from date of signature.

MBYFCC Parent Code of Conduct Policy

The Mechanicsville Braves Youth Football and Cheer Club, Inc. (MBYFCC), has implemented the following Parent Code of Conduct. The code of conduct is an important message regarding parents supporting their child and the club. Parents should read, understand, and sign this form each year their child participates in MBYFCC activities.

MBYFCC believes in the concept of six core principles:

• Trustworthiness

• Respect

• Responsibility

• Fairness

• Caring

• Good Citizenship

I therefore agree to the following:

1.      I will not force my child to participate in sports.

2.      I will remember that children participate to have fun and that the game is for the youth, not adults.

3.      I will inform the coach of any physical disability or ailment that may affect the safety of my child or the safety of others.

4.      I will learn the rules of the game and the policies of the league.

5.      I (and my guests) will be a positive role model for my child and encourage sportsmanship by showing respect and courtesy, and by demonstrating positive support for all players, coaches, officials and spectators at every game, practice, or other club event.

6.      I (and my guests) will not engage in any kind of unsportsmanlike conduct with any official, coach, player, or parent such as booing and taunting; and refrain from using profane language or gestures.

7.      I will not encourage any behaviors or practices that would endanger the health and wellbeing of the participants.

8.      I will teach my child to play by the rules and to resolve conflicts without resorting to hostility or violence.

9.      I will demand that my child treat other players, coaches, officials, and spectators with respect regardless of race, creed, color, sex or ability.

10.  I will teach my child that doing one’s best is more important than winning, so that my child will never feel defeated by the outcome of a game or his/her performance.

11.  I will praise my child for competing fairly and trying hard, and make my child feel like a winner every time.

12.  I will never ridicule or yell at my child or other participants for making a mistake or losing a competition.

13.  I will emphasize skill development, practices and how they benefit my child over winning.

14.  I will promote the emotional and physical well-being of the participants ahead of any personal desire I may have for my child to win.

15.  I will respect the officials and their authority during games and will never question, discuss, or confront coaches at the game field, and will take time to speak with coaches at an agreed upon time and place.

16.  I will demand a sports environment for my child that is free from drugs, tobacco, and alcohol and I will refrain from their use at all club events.

17.  I will refrain from coaching my child or other players during games and practices unless I am one of the official coaches of the team.

MBYFCC values the act of unity, respect, and enrichment. Expectations of club members include:

·         I will never yell at, verbally abuse, threaten, touch, or invade the space of a coach, assistant coach, team mom, board member, player, parent, referee, or opponent at any time.

·         I will not coach from the sideline.  Direction/instruction from a parent can be potentially confusing to the player and/or contradictory to the coach.  Coaching from the sideline undermines the coach.

·         I will Address all team concerns/issues with the Team Mom.  It will be her role to try to handle your issue or plan for you to meet with the Head Coach directly. 

·         If not resolved or if there is a complaint regarding a coach, I will contact the Braves Board of Directors at [email protected].

·         I will communicate absences or tardiness to the Head Coach/Team Mom within reasonable notice.

·         I will respond to team communications/information (email, text, phone calls, etc.) promptly.

·         I will honor your commitment to the team, practices, games, tournaments, events, volunteer hours, etc.

·         I will not slanderous criticism of players, opponents, coaches, referees, and any other participant is unacceptable.

·         I will have discussions with coaching staff in private.

·         I will not discuss issues/concerns before, during or after a game.

·         I will adhere to the “24 hour cool down period” – I will give all issues at least 24 hours before addressing.

·         I understand that poor conduct and disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated.

·         Regarding social media and networking, I will “Think before I speak, act, type or tweet.”  I will avoid posting material that is defamatory, obscene, profane, threatening, abusive, harassing or targeted toward any person or entity within the organization and its leadership, customers, suppliers, and competitors.

·         I understand that if I violate any of the standards within the parent code of conduct, I may be subject to disciplinary action or removal from the club and all its activities for a period or permanently based on the club disciplinary policy.

Parental Conflict Resolution Procedure:

The MBYFCC Board recognizes the desire of the parental body to have a voice in the development process of their children.  The following protocol is to help facilitate a positive learning environment in which good problem-solving skills are utilized and modeled for our participants.  When a conflict arises between a parent and a member of the MBYFCC, the following steps should be taken (the issue must not be discussed with other parents or club members but should be dealt with one on one. Most problems can be resolved in this manner.):

1.                  The parent should arrange a meeting with the MBYFCC member to discuss his/her concerns and attempt to come to a mutually agreed upon solution.

2.                  If a mutual agreement is not reached, the parent may arrange a meeting with the Football Commissioner/Cheer Commissioner of the MBYFCC. In this meeting, the parent should discuss the attempts that have been made to settle the problem with the staff member. The Commissioner, at his/her discretion, may invite the staff member to be present.

3.                  If there is still no closure, the parent may request a meeting with the MBYFCC board by contacting a board member in person or via email at [email protected].  This meeting is private. The majority decision of the Board is final, and the conflict will be considered resolved.

If there is a Parent Code of Conduct violation, the MBYFCC reserves the right to suspend spectator privileges in part or fully; this includes but is not limited to individuals, participants, and family member suspension for some or all club activities. If suspension occurs, you may appeal in writing to the MBYFCC board of directors.  Any parent, participant, or family member guilty of improper conduct at any club event will be asked to leave the event and be suspended from the following game. Repeat violations may cause a multiple event suspension, or a season forfeiture of the privilege to attend all MBYFCC events. I have read, understand, agree with, and will always adhere to the MBYFCC Parent Code of Conduct Policy.

DISCIPLINARY PROCEDURES

In keeping with the MBYFCC values of sportsmanship, fair play, skill development, and mutual respect among all players, coaches, officials, and spectators and to ensure the Codes of Conduct are understood and followed by all coaches, participants, parents, and spectators the disciplinary procedures below have been established. It is the responsibility and duty of the MBYFCC board of directors (BOD) to ensure all reports are investigated thoroughly and proper disciplinary actions are taken in accordance with investigation findings.

Reporting Improper Conduct

The MBYFCC welcomes all coaches, players, parents, spectators, and officials to report to the BOD any issues they observe before, during, or after practices, games, and any organization function.  Reports can be made by directly contacting the club at [email protected].

Reporting By Coaches

It is the responsibility of every coach to address improper conduct observed by the coach or brought to the coach’s attention in a timely and respectful manner. In the event any coach feels that the BOD should be involved in addressing any improper conduct, the coach is encouraged to contact the BOD through the club email address.

A.      Coaches must report any Offensive Actions to the BOD, including, without limitation:

1)       Any report or allegation of inappropriate physical contact, violence, or threatened violence against any participant, coach, official, parent, spectator, or official.

2)       Any observed or reported use of drugs or alcohol by any participant, coach, official, parent, or spectator during any MBYFCC event.

3)       Any situation where a participant, coach, parent, or spectator is ejected from a game or removed from the premises.

B.      Coaches are encouraged to keep the BOD informed of any improper conduct and the steps taken by the coach to address the misconduct, even if the coach is not required to report the misconduct to the BOD.

C.      Coaches shall promptly respond to any request by the BOD for information relating to any incident or violation of the Code of Conduct.

Reporting by Officials, Parents, and Spectators

Officials, parents, and spectators are encouraged to report any improper conduct to a coach and/or the BOD.  If an official, parent, or spectator reports misconduct to the coach and feels that the misconduct is not appropriately addressed, the parent or spectator is encouraged to contact the BOD through the club email address.

Procedures for Addressing Improper Conduct

Being that it is the responsibility of all participants to address improper conduct the following procedures have been set to ensure accountability and disciplinary actions are taken for misconduct.

Coaches and Officials

A.      Coaches and officials shall promptly within 2 hours of notification address any misconduct that is observed or brought to the attention of the coach or official during an MBYFCC event.

B.      Coaches and officials have the absolute authority, in their sole discretion, to issue verbal warnings and/or eject any participant, parent, or spectator from any game or match if the participant, parent, or spectator violates the Code of Conduct or engages in any Offensive Action.

C.      Officials have the absolute authority to issue verbal warnings and/or eject any coach from any game or match if the coach violates the Code of Conduct or engages in any Offensive Action.

MBYFCC Board of Directors

A.      The MBYFCC BOD will conduct a timely and reasonable investigation into any misconduct reported.  The scope of any investigation will be determined by the BOD in its sole discretion, provided, however, that the BOD will provide any person accused of misconduct a reasonable opportunity (24 hours from notification) to be heard.

B.      After a reasonable investigation, the BOD will determine the appropriate penalty for any violation of this Code of Conduct and any Offensive Action.

a.      Penalties will be based on the nature and severity of the violation.

b.      The BOD will strive to treat all similar offenses in a similar manner, while considering the individual facts and circumstances of each violation.

c.       The BOD will not discriminate in any manner in determining whether to impose a penalty or in determining which penalty to impose.

d.      Should a conflict of interest arise per any BOD member, said member will recuse themselves of the investigation and disciplinary action process.

C.      The BOD will keep reasonable and appropriate records of each reported violation and shall document each penalty and the reasons for imposing the penalty.

D.     Decision for penalty will be made within 7 calendar days of notification.

All decisions of the BOD are final and cannot be appealed.

PENALTIES

The BOD shall determine the appropriate penalty for any violation of the Code of Conduct and any Offensive Actions.  Penalties may include any one or more of the following:

A.      Verbal Warning

B.      Written Warning

C.      Suspension:

a.      One game suspension

b.      Multiple game suspension, or

c.       Indefinite suspension

D.     Expulsion from MBYFCC

ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS

A.      If a coach or parent is expelled from the club, any child associated with that person is also expelled from the club.

B.      If a participant is suspended from the Southern Maryland Youth Athletic Conference (SMYAC), they cannot participate in MBYFCC events for the duration of their suspension.  If they are currently on a team, they will be removed from that team.

C.      Behavior of participants may also subject them to discipline under the SMYAC code of conduct.

D.     There are no refunds as a result of any person being removed from the club. However, all loaned equipment will be expected to be returned immediately.  Any equipment not returned will be invoiced for payment to replace.

SUMMARY

The MBYFCC reserves the right to enforce immediate sanctions for violation of zero-tolerance policies at the club’s discretion or for the purpose of restoring a safe environment.  Coaches or other staff determined to be involved in or who condone such zero-tolerance activities shall be subject to immediate sanctions such as suspension of volunteer role and/or affiliation with the club pending completion of the investigation process.  

NOTE: The existence of a policy is meaningless if there is no effective communication to educate the individuals to whom it both applies and protects.  With this being said, there is a mandatory annual commitment to review the Codes of Conduct in detail with all coaches, participants and parents to include minors, This annual commitment is emphasized by also encouraging the reporting of violations, information on how violations should be reported, assurance of “whistle-blower protection” and, in the case of participants, an assurance that a Parent Participant Advocate will be available for a confidential conversation and to act on behalf of the participan

HEAT INDEX

Heat Index can be described as "what it feels like outside." The heat index is the relationship between temperature and humidity, which can produce detrimental effects on the body. The heat index changes throughout the day; midday (12:00-4:00 p.m.) is often the hottest. When it is hot the body sweats, in which the water in the sweat evaporates and carries heat away from the body. Sweating cools the body through evaporation. Now, imagine that it is hot outside, and the humidity is relatively high. Humidity is basically how much water is already in the air. When you sweat, the only way you cool down is through evaporation of water from your skin. But if the air is holding too much water already, the sweat stays on your skin and you get little to no relief from the heat. High relative humidity restricts evaporation, robbing the body of its ability to cool itself.

The heat index for each day will dictate any cancellations or restricted activity. Our heat plan is designed to protect participants from having heat related illnesses or problems. The heat index will be determined based on the National Weather Service's determination at www.weather.gov with the input of zip code 20659.

MBYFCC MANDATES THAT ALL OUTSIDE PRACTICES & COMPETITIONS MUST BE SUSPENDED WHEN THE HEAT INDEX REACHES EXCESS OF 104 DEGREES.

No activities will be allowed when the heat index at the location of the activity is more than 104 degrees.

HEAT INDEX GUIDELINES

1. If the heat index is 80-89: participants should be watched closely for any signs of heat distress, and frequent water breaks should be taken.
2. If the heat index is 90- 99: participants should be watched closely for any signs of heat distress. Mandatory water breaks every 30 minutes for 10 minutes in duration along with iced down towels for cooling. Contact sports and activities with helmets and other possible equipment should be removed while not involved in contact. Athletic activities should be modified such that football players should practice in shorts, shoulder pads and helmets only.
3. If the heat index is 100-104: participants should be watched closely for any signs of heat distress. Mandatory water breaks every 20 minutes for 10 minutes in duration along with iced down towels for cooling. Uniform modifications are required - shorts, t-shirts, and helmets only. Helmets and other possible equipment should be removed if not involved in contact or necessary for safety. Reduce time of outside activity. If necessary for safety, suspend activity.
4. If the heat index is more than 104 degrees: all activities will be suspended or postponed until later in the evening. No activity will begin before 7 pm and must conclude by 10 pm. Activity could also be rescheduled for when the heat index has reached an acceptable level. No activity may begin until conditions are acceptable, meaning the heat index is below 104. All appropriate guidelines should be followed based on the reading at the time.

 

HEAT STRESS & ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION

During hot weather conditions the athlete is subject to heat related illnesses. Watch for the following:

Heat Related Illness	Treatment
Heat Cramps are involuntary muscle spasms.	Participant should rest in a cool place. Massage cramp with ice and passive stretching. Replenish fluids with water. Return to play when symptom free.
Heat Exhaustion involves profuse sweating, dizziness, weakness, nausea, and headache.	Remove unnecessary clothing & equipment. Towel participant with cool water and/or ice especially in the neck region, armpits and near groin areas (this rapidly cools the body). Rest in cool place. Discontinue activity until thoroughly recovered. Return to play when symptom free.
Heat Strokeis a Medical Emergency associated with nausea, seizures, disorientation, a glassy stare and possible unconsciousness or coma. It may occur suddenly without being preceded by any other signs. The individual is usually unconscious with a high body temperature and a hot dry skin. Heat stroke victims, contrary to popular belief, may sweat profusely.	Remove unnecessary clothing & equipment. Towel participant with cool water and/or ice especially in the neck region, armpits and near groin areas (this rapidly cools the body). Rest in cool place. Treat for shock. May not return to play until assessed by a medical provider.
With any Heat Related Illness, treatment for all heat conditions involves immediately moving the person to a cool place, rapidly cooling the body, and removing all equipment and unnecessary clothing. Administer cool fluids. Elevate the feet above the heart to maintain blood pressure and circulation to the brain.

 

The following practices and precautions are mandatory for athletic participation:

1. Each athlete will provide a completed physical examination form from a physician, nurse practitioner or physician's assistant, parent's informed consent and emergency contacts, before he or she may practice, play, or compete. This form is available at www.mechanicsvillebraves.org. Copies of this information should be provided to the Team Mom at the start of each season and should accompany the coach to all games and practices.
2. Along with physical conditioning the factor of acclimatization to heat is important. Acclimatization is the process of becoming adjusted to heat. It is essential to provide GRADUAL ACCLIMATIZATION TO HOT WEATHER. Research states that most heat related fatalities occur in the first four days of preseason practice. Please acclimate your athletes to the heat with gradual practice sessions.
3. The most important safeguard to the health of the athlete is the replacement of water. Please ensure participants have an adequate amount of water at the start of each activity. Check and be sure athletes are drinking the water.
4. It is required that each coach know what to do in case of an emergency. It is required that at least one member of each teams coaching staff be CPR and First Aid Certified by either the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. It is recommended that all coaching staff be CPR and First Aid Certified by either the American Red Cross or American Heart Association. All teams must maintain an appropriate First Aid Kit at all practices, games, and competitions along with injury ice bags. Be familiar with immediate first aid practices and procedures for obtaining medical care, including ambulance service.

INCLEMENT WEATHER

Inclement weather can be defined as the existence of rain or abnormal climatic conditions (whether they be those of hail, snow, cold, high wind, severe dust storm, extreme high temperature or the like), by virtue of which it is either unsafe and/or unreasonable for individuals to continue participating in activities outdoors when exposed to this weather.

The determination for inclement weather severity for each day will dictate any cancellations or restricted activity. Our inclement weather plan is designed to protect participants from being placed into potentially unsafe environmental situation.

MBYFCC MANDATES THAT ALL OUTSIDE PRACTICES, GAMES & COMPETITIONS MUST BE SUSPENDED WHEN THUNDER IS HEARD OR LIGHTENING IS OBSERVED. ALL OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES WILL STOP FOR AT A MINIMUIM OF 30 MINUTES FROM TIME HEARD OR OBSERVED. ANY SUBSEQUENT THUNDER OR LIGHTENING WILL RESET THE 30 MINUTE CLOCK.

Inclement weather closings may also be determined by St Mary's Recreation and Parks Public Safety Division. Weather related closures for St. Mary's County's Recreation Centers and Parks can be found at https://www.stmarysmd.com/emergency/rpannounce.asp.

During certain weather-related circumstances, waivers to use St. Mary's County Recreation and Parks facilities can be requested. This will requests are only to be made by the MBYFCC President and will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

PROCEDURE FOR COACH OR ATHLETE WHO TESTS POSITIVE FOR COVID-19:

• Coach/Parent(s)/Legal Guardian(s) reports COVID-19 Positive status to a board of director member, coach, or team mom (If status reported to a coach or team mom, they report to board of director member).
• Positive individual immediately isolates.
• Board of director member contacts the St Mary's County Health Department (SMCHD) to confirm positivity.
• The board of directors send notification letter of possible exposure to those individuals impacted by the exposure while maintaining confidentiality as required by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
  1. If there is a possibility you are a "close contact", the board of directors strongly encourages you contact the St Mary's County Health Department for contact tracing at https://smchd.org/ or (301) 475-4330.
• If the COVID + individual has been present at a club event, (i.e., team practice, game, etc.) during period of contractability, said team or group will halt activities for a minimum of 5 days or as otherwise advised by the SMCHD.
• Positive individual can return to club activities when the following criteria is met:
  1. 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared,
  2. Fever free for 24 hours, without the use of fever-reducing medication,
  3. Improvement of other symptoms.

 

PROCEDURE FOR A COACH OR ATHLETE WITH COVID-19 Symptoms:

• Individual asked to refrain from attending and participating in any club activities while symptoms are present and will not be permitted to return until symptom free for a minimum of 24 hours.

 

 

 

 

Close Contact Defined: Someone who was within 6 feet of an infected person for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more over a 24-hour period starting from 2 days before illness onset or positive test.