POSA VOLLEYBALL SAFETY PLAN 2025

Prepared by:
Kristen Hunt
Pend Oreille Sports Association Safety Officer
info@posasports.org

Importance of Safety

The purpose of this document is to emphasize the importance of safety in Pend Oreille Sports Association (POSA) and to identify important safety issues of which all individuals involved should be aware. League officers, coaches, parents and players will take safety issues very seriously.

The safety plan herein refers to playing at any POSA facility (Newport School District facilities, Camas Center, Cusick School District facilities, Priest River facilities, or any other location approved by POSA).

Further information beyond this document regarding the safety program is available by contacting the POSA Safety Officer listed below. Paper copies will be distributed to each coach.

Any questions, comments or suggestions for improvements can be made by contacting the Safety Officer directly.

1. Safety Officer

1. POSA has an active Safety Officer. The Safety Officer for the 2025 season is Kristen Hunt, 509-554-6219 (cell).
2. Any questions regarding this plan and POSA safety can be directed to the Safety Officer.

2. Emergency Phone Numbers

In Case of Emergency Call 911

Type	Contact	Phone
Police / Fire / Ambulance	Emergency	911
Poison Control Center	Emergency	800-222-1222
City of Newport Police	Non-emergency	509-447-3151
City of Newport Fire Department	Non-emergency	911

3. 2025 Pend Oreille Sports Association Board

Please reach out to board@pendoreillesports.org for specific officer contact information if needed.

Position	Name
President	Tim Chilcott
Vice President	Nick Tucker
Treasurer	Carmen Crabtree
Secretary	Nicole Woitel
Safety Officer	Kristen Hunt
Director of Fundraising	Nick Tucker
School Liaison	Honey Smith
Equipment Manager	Gerald Steeno
Registrar	Kamille Bennett
Director of Officiating	Megan Moore
Coach Coordinator	Taylor Sanchez
Director of Concessions	Dawn Skiles
Volleyball Commissioner	Jaime Peone

4. Safety Goals for 2025

1. One coach/representative from each team will attend basic CPR training as well as annual first aid training or provide POSA with a current copy of CPR certification.
2. All equipment will be inspected prior to the season’s use and periodically throughout the season.
3. All volunteers that have contact with children will have a government backed background check prior to first practice.
4. Any concession foods served during 2025 will follow standard safety procedures, including proper dating and temperature monitoring. All such procedures will be documented and posted in the concession stand.
5. Each team will have a basic first aid kit.

5. Background Checks

Any person coming into contact with children through POSA during the 2025 season, whether as a coach or volunteer, is required to register with POSA and submit a background check. Any person refusing to submit the required application and background check will not be allowed to participate as a coach or volunteer within POSA.

6. Training Programs

6.1 First Aid Training

• Each team must have at least one representative complete first aid training before the start of the 2025 season.
• Training will be documented at the coaches meeting, with periodic safety updates given throughout the season.

6.2 Coaches Training

• All coaches must review training materials provided by POSA and attend annually.
• Each coach must be familiar with all POSA safety plans, rules, and procedures.

7. General Safety Rules During Games and Practices

7.1 Everyone

• Players should be alert at all times.
• Only players, coaches, and referees/line judges may be on the court during play.
• If wearing eyeglasses, ensure proper fitting for sports safety.

7.2 Coaches

• At least one coach must remain on the court at all times.
• During warm-ups, players must be spaced safely.
• No horseplay on court.
• Kneepads and protective equipment must be worn as directed.

7.3 Spectators

• Children not playing may not be on the court.
• Spectators must demonstrate good sportsmanship and avoid abusive or vulgar language.
• Violators will be removed immediately.

8. Equipment Safety

POSA will require regular inspection of equipment. Replacement of defective equipment must occur immediately by contacting any league official. Equipment checks will be done by:

• Equipment Manager at the beginning of the season
• Coaches at the beginning of each game or practice
• Referees/line judges prior to and during games

9. First Aid Kits

Each coach will have a fully stocked first aid kit. Travel kits will also be provided. The head coach is responsible for ensuring the kit remains stocked and available at all practices and games. Supplies can be refilled by contacting the Safety Officer or any league official.

10. Accident Reporting

All accidents and safety violations must be reported to the Safety Officer within 24–48 hours. Reports will be generated and filed by POSA to improve safety procedures.

10.1 Emergency Procedures

• Remain calm during all emergencies.
• Have a charged cell phone at all practices and games.
• The head coach (or designee) will handle emergency calls.

10.1.1 Minor Injury

• Use the first aid box as needed.
• Wear gloves when blood is present and treat appropriately.
• Notify the Safety Officer of all injuries, no matter how minor.

10.1.2 Major Injury

1. Clear the court; keep spectators away.
2. Do not move the injured player.
3. Call 911 and give full details.
4. Continue first aid until professionals arrive.
5. Assign someone to meet emergency vehicles.
6. Assist medical personnel.
7. Notify parents/guardians.
8. Notify the Safety Officer immediately after the incident.

10.1.3 Player Return-to-Play Decisions

• Coaches decide if a player should continue.
• Follow emergency personnel directions.
• Consult parents and use medical release info if needed.

10.2 Injury Notification / Reporting Procedure

Coaches must report any injury within 24–48 hours by contacting Kristen Hunt at 509-554-6219 or info@posasports.org. Prompt reporting prevents loss of detail.

11. Concussion Policy Statement

POSA takes player safety seriously. Any player suspected of suffering a concussion will be removed from play and not return until cleared in writing by a medical professional. Cooperation with this policy is required from everyone.