The resolution commends the CoachSafely Foundation for its significant contributions to improving safety standards in youth sports injury mitigation in Alabama. It highlights the establishment of the Coach Safely Act in 2018, which was the first comprehensive legislation in the nation aimed at reducing injuries among young athletes. The Act mandates that all coaches and athletic personnel working with athletes aged 14 and under complete a safety training course. The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) has played a crucial role in enforcing compliance with this Act, ensuring that youth athletes are better protected.
Furthermore, the resolution encourages the CoachSafely Foundation to continue its partnership with Alabama youth athletes by regularly reviewing its educational content, surveying coaches for feedback, and maintaining a database for course completions. It also recognizes the ADPH for its diligent oversight of the Coach Safely Act and urges that any educational courses meeting the Act's requirements be approved by the National Council of Youth Sports or similar organizations. The resolution emphasizes the importance of collaboration with nationally recognized entities to uphold best practices and protect the health and safety of youth athletes in Alabama.