Safeguarding Policy

Safeguarding & Player Safety Policy

Bell Gardens Football Club (BGFC)

Bell Gardens Football Club is committed to providing a safe, structured, and positive environment for all players, families, staff, and volunteers. Player safety, education, and transparency are central to our operations.

This page outlines BGFC’s safeguarding standards, player safety expectations, and participation requirements.

Player Safety Standards

All players participating in BGFC activities must comply with the following safety requirements:

  • Shin guards are mandatory at all training sessions, games, tryouts, and events.
    No exceptions will be allowed.

  • Jewelry is prohibited, except for Medical Alert bracelets that are properly taped down.
    Earrings must be removed before participation and may not be taped over.

  • Players not properly equipped will not be permitted to train or play.

Assumption of Risk & Participant Responsibility

Participation in soccer and athletic activities involves inherent risks, including but not limited to physical contact, falls, collisions, weather conditions, and equipment use.

By attending, participating in, or observing any BGFC activity — including tryouts, training sessions, games, camps, clinics, or events — players and parents/guardians acknowledge and agree to the following:

  • Participation is voluntary and undertaken at the participant’s own risk.

  • Players and parents/guardians assume full responsibility for any injury, illness, or physical condition that may occur during participation.

  • Bell Gardens Football Club, its directors, coaches, staff, volunteers, and affiliates are not responsible for injuries sustained during participation.

  • It is the responsibility of the player and parent/guardian to ensure the player is medically fit to participate.

  • BGFC strongly recommends maintaining personal medical and accident insurance for all participants.

Participation in any BGFC activity constitutes acknowledgment of these risks and responsibilities.

Concussion Awareness & Management

BGFC follows best practices and legal requirements regarding concussion awareness and player safety.

If a concussion or head injury is suspected:

  1. The athlete will be immediately removed from play for the remainder of the day.

  2. The athlete may not return to activity until written medical clearance is provided by a licensed healthcare professional trained in concussion management.

  3. Parents/guardians will be notified immediately.

  4. A graduated return-to-play protocol of no fewer than seven days will be followed under medical supervision.

BGFC provides concussion education materials annually and requires acknowledgment before participation begins.

Coach & Staff Requirements

  • All coaches and administrators must complete required background checks.

  • All staff must complete concussion and player safety education prior to supervising athletes.

  • Annual safeguarding and safety training is required for all BGFC personnel.

Important Notice

This Safeguarding Policy is provided for informational purposes and does not replace signed waivers, liability releases, or medical authorization forms required for participation. All participants must complete official BGFC registration and documentation before engaging in club activities.