Standards refer to the level of performance that are expected by those with similar amounts of education and training. It reflects accepted actions as defined by society and the concensus of experts in a similar field.

In legal terms, it is called "the reasonably prudent person standard." You act in a manner that is the acceptable practice for that profession. A lawsuit attempts to prove that a person did not follow the standard expected in that field.

Standards in athletics are established based on research and input from leaders and experts in sport safety. They are published and accessible to all. For example, The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) offers numerous sport equipment standards that address everything from protective headgear to arrow shafts.

The standard of care for athletic administrators and coaches fall into several general categories. They include the need to:

Properly Plan the Activity: For example, a soccer coach does not start a scrimmage until all the players are thoroughly warmed up.

Provide Proper Instruction: A football coach, for example, teaches athletes to tackle with their head up.

Provide a Safe Environment: The baseball coach does not allow some players to engage in fielding drills while others are having batting practice on the same field.

Provide Proper Equipment: The boys' lacrosse coach purchases only NOCSAE approved helmets for his team because he knows that they meet the standard.

Properly Match Participants: The wrestling coach does not pair the 165 pound senior with the 103 pound freshman during a competitive drill.

Supervise the Activity: The swimming coach does not allow any athlete in the pool without a certified lifeguard being present.

Warn of Inherent Risks: Every preseason, coaches explain any dangers of the sport to parents and to the participants.

Provide Emergency and Post-Care Help: An emergency care plan is developed for each athletic facility and for each sport.

For More Information

More information can be obtained from various groups. The NFHS publishes rule books and casebooks, as well as newsletters. The National Association for Sport and Physical Education publishes "National Standards for Athletic Coaches." The ASTM publishes numerous equipment standards, as well as several books.