football player safety

Question
I am an assistant coach for a Pop Warner Tiny Mite team (ages 5-6).  I need reference material for safe play (ie: proper technique, hydration and general safety tips).  Thanks.

Answer
Hello Coach Chris,

First let me say thank you for volunteering to coach our youth. Funny, it is very hard to find material on these subjects without having to pay for a video or for joining some club.
I will offer as much info as I can. If you have any further questions, just ask.

Safe Play (proper technique): When teaching football, one of the biggest points of emphasis is tackling (hitting). The most known teachings are head up (see your target), butt down and place the face mask center (sternum), wrap up (slight lift) and drive thru the target. Head down can cause serious injury. But, head up can also cause the player to jam his neck. Of course, this technique only works when the target is coming directly at the defender.

Hydration: It is hot. Under those pads, it is even hotter. I also tell my youth coaches that you have to assume that the player has not been drinking the proper amount of water before practice. Therefore, someone (or all coaches) have a water bottle in their hand or at their feet. Ice cold water is not good when the body is at a high temperature, especially for kids. Cool water is good. Towels kept in cool water is also good to have at the field. I know coaches complain about their limited time with the kids, but you have to have constant water breaks. Better that than some kid passing out on the field. So, this means good time management. Have everything set what you are going to work on for the day. That way you don't lose a lot of time.

General Safety: Teach proper tackling techniques, give water breaks. If a kid is complaining or seems a little out of it. Pull him out of the game and check on him. Make sure you have the kid(s) asthma pumps at all practices and games. Ask the parents to get a extra pump for the team mom/dad to hold onto. Mark them with each kids name appropriately. Do not use the wrong pump on a kid. If you have any specific questions let me know.

I apologize for the delay in answering your question.

Thank you and Good Luck with your season Coach,

Coach Anderson