Santa Barbara Flag Football Academy
Our Safety Commitment
At Santa Barbara Flag Football Academy, player safety is our top priority. We provide a warm, reassuring environment where your young athlete can thrive under a rigorous safety framework built for speed, fun, and total peace of mind.
Total Priority
Athlete well-being guides every decision we make. We never compromise on safety for any play or game.
USA Standards
We follow USA Football and flag-specific best practices, applying elite standards to our local Santa Barbara community.
Vetted Coaches
All coaches are professionally background checked and trained in essential player protection protocols.
Proper Equipment
Games and practices utilize age-appropriate equipment and rules designed to keep the game fun and low-risk.
Emergency Care
We maintain clear protocols for weather, injuries, and emergencies to ensure immediate and professional action.
Family Partners
Families are our partners in safety. Together, we report concerns and follow all league health guidelines.
Player Safety Guidelines
01
Equipment & Clothing • All players must wear a mouthguard at all times. Please wear our SBFFA uniforms, and ensure no dangly jewelry is worn (5mm or smaller for earrings is okay). Cleats are required, but metal spikes are strictly prohibited for safety.
02
Hydration & Breaks • Stay fueled! Bring a labeled water bottle to every session. We provide structured water breaks, but players are encouraged to grab a sip during breaks during the game if they need it to stay hydrated and energized.
03
Safe Play Expectations • This is flag football—no tackling and no rough play allowed. We play with respect for officials and fellow athletes. Safe, competitive fun is the only way we play.
04
Listen to Your Body • If you feel any pain, dizziness, or aren't feeling 100%, tell a coach right away. There is no 'playing through it' here—your health is more important than any game.
05
Arrival & Pick-up • Parents, please ensure players arrive 10-30 minutes early to warm up. For safety, please be present for pick-up promptly at the end of every session. Coaches and/or staff will remain until every player is safely with their guardian.
06
Sportsmanship & Behavior • We believe in the power of positivity. Respect your teammates, your opponents, and yourself. Foul language or unsportsmanlike conduct has no place on our field. Your team can be forfeited from the game or the parent or coach may be removed from the field.
Injury Protocols
01
On-Field Response • If a player is hurt during practice or a game, play is stopped immediately. Our coaches follow a clear check: the athlete is evaluated right on the field. If there is any concern for safety, the athlete is removed from the game or drill for further assessment.
02
Level of Care • We use standard first aid for minor bumps and scrapes on-site. However, 911 is called immediately for any loss of consciousness, suspected severe fractures, or serious difficulty breathing. We never take risks when professional medical intervention is required.
03
Concussion Safety • We follow a strict 'Removal from Play' policy. If a player shows any signs of concussion, they are removed immediately and cannot return the same day. To return to play, they must be cleared in writing by a qualified healthcare professional.
04
Parent Communication • Guardians are notified immediately following any injury. We provide a clear summary of what happened, the care provided on-site, and any recommendations for follow-up care to ensure a seamless transition of attention between field and home.
05
Return-to-Play • We follow professional guidelines for returning to action. Athletes must be symptom-free and follow all doctor's notes and league safety protocols. We prioritize full recovery over reaching the field quickly to protect lasting player health.
Emergency Contacts & Safety Information
Immediate Emergency: Call 911
In the event of a life-threatening injury or sudden medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Providing swift professional care is the primary focus. Once authorities are on their way, notify the nearest league official.
Concussions & Serious Injuries
Safety first! If an athlete takes a hard hit to the head or shows signs of injury, they must be removed from play immediately. Remember: 'When in doubt, sit them out.' A medical clearance is required before returning to the field.
League Director
Isabel • sbflagfootballacademy@gmail.com
Current Field / Site Address
Santa Barbara High School
700 E. Anapamu St, Santa Barbara, CA 93103
Nearest Hospital / Urgent Care
Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital • 400 W. Pueblo St • Distance: 2.3 miles