Safety First

Learn about our comprehensive safety protocols and commitment to proper tackling techniques

Our Commitment to Player Safety

At Pasadena Ponies, safety isn’t just a priority—it’s a promise. We ensure that every coach undergoes rigorous training to teach proper football fundamentals, safeguarding our young athletes. As Coach Marcus frequently emphasizes:

“If we don’t teach the kids to tackle and block safely, we’re not doing our job. Safety first, wins second.”

It’s this dedication that has earned the trust of parents throughout Pasadena and Altadena for generations.

Comprehensive Safety Protocols

1. Coach Certification & Training

  • All coaches must complete USA Football’s Heads Up certification
  • Annual safety workshops and technique refreshers
  • Background checks and child protection training for all staff
  • First Aid and CPR certification requirements

2. Proper Equipment Standards

  • All players receive properly fitted, certified helmets
  • Regular equipment inspections throughout the season
  • Shoulder pads sized specifically for each player
  • Mandatory mouthguards for all participants

3. Progressive Teaching Methods

We follow a structured progression for teaching contact:

  1. Foundation Phase - Basic stance and body positioning
  2. Form Phase - Proper technique without contact
  3. Fit Phase - Controlled contact at walking speed
  4. Wrap Phase - Proper tackling form with wrap-up
  5. Live Phase - Full-speed practice with supervision

4. Heads Up Tackling Technique

Our coaches are trained in the latest Heads Up Tackling techniques, which include:

  • See what you hit - Eyes up, never leading with the crown
  • Bite the ball - Keeping the head up and back
  • Leverage - Using legs and hips, not the head
  • Wrap and roll - Proper arm placement and follow-through

Age-Appropriate Training

5-6 Year Olds (Flag Football)

  • No contact football - flag only
  • Focus on fundamentals: running, catching, teamwork
  • Introduction to football concepts through games
  • Building confidence and coordination

7-8 Year Olds (8U Division)

  • Introduction to controlled contact
  • Emphasis on proper technique over aggression
  • Limited contact in practice (no more than 25% of practice time)
  • Position-specific safety training

9-10 Year Olds (10U Division)

  • Advanced technique refinement
  • Understanding leverage and body control
  • Situational safety awareness
  • Leadership in safety practices

Concussion Protocol

We maintain a strict concussion protocol that includes:

  1. Baseline Testing - Pre-season assessments for all players
  2. Immediate Removal - Any suspected head injury results in immediate removal from play
  3. Medical Clearance - Written clearance required from healthcare provider before return
  4. Gradual Return - Step-by-step return-to-play protocol
  5. Parent Communication - Immediate notification and education

Heat & Hydration Safety

Practice Guidelines

  • Mandatory water breaks every 20 minutes
  • Modified practice schedules during extreme heat
  • Shade tents available at all practice fields
  • Athletic trainers on-site for games

Hydration Education

  • Players taught proper hydration before, during, and after practice
  • Parents receive hydration guidelines
  • Team water stations sanitized daily

Parent Partnership

We believe safety is a team effort that includes parents:

  • Safety Meetings - Mandatory parent safety orientation
  • Open Communication - Direct line to safety coordinator
  • Injury Reporting - Clear protocols for reporting concerns
  • Equipment Care - Guidelines for maintaining gear at home

Our Safety Record

We’re proud of our safety record:

  • Over 35 years of safe football instruction
  • Below-average injury rates compared to national youth football statistics
  • Recognition from local health organizations for our safety protocols
  • Continuous improvement through annual safety audits

Safety Resources

For Parents:

For Coaches:

  • Monthly safety clinics
  • Technique video library
  • Peer mentorship program
  • Annual safety certification renewal

Our Safety Pledge

“Every child who joins the Pasadena Ponies deserves to learn football in the safest environment possible. We pledge to maintain the highest safety standards, use the latest techniques, and never compromise on player well-being. When your child wears the Ponies uniform, their safety is our sacred responsibility.”

- Pasadena Ponies Board of Directors

For more information about our safety protocols or to report a safety concern, please contact our Safety Coordinator at safety@pasadenaponies.com or call (626) 555-SAFE.