SAFETY & RESOURCES
OUR SAFETY STANDARD
SPYRC prioritizes athlete safety through trained coaches and volunteers, established emergency procedures, and confirmed medical coverage for every match.
COACH AND VOLUNTEER REQUIREMENTS
All coaches and volunteers must complete background screening, SafeSport training, and concussion-protocol education. Head coaches must also obtain the applicable USA Rugby Level 1 coaching certification.
CONCUSSION RESPONSE
SPYRC follows the standard USA Rugby concussion protocol. Any athlete suspected of sustaining a concussion must be removed from play and managed according to applicable return-to-play requirements.
MATCH-DAY MEDICAL COVERAGE
An athletic trainer, medic, or qualified medical professional is present at every match. SPYRC coordinates coverage for home matches, while the host club provides coverage for away matches.
Home and away medical coverage is confirmed before match day and validated by an NCYRU official. Medical personnel maintain the AED available for the event.
LIGHTNING AND SEVERE WEATHER
SPYRC uses NOAA information and LightningMaps.org to monitor weather and lightning conditions.
NOAA weather information:
Lightning tracking:
https://www.lightningmaps.org/
Activities stop when lightning is observed, thunder is heard, or the established lightning protocol is triggered. The all-clear requires 30 consecutive minutes without a lightning strike within a 10-mile radius.
At Pinehurst Polo Fields, no suitable hard lightning shelter is available. Players, families, coaches, and spectators must return to their vehicles until club leadership provides the all-clear. Do not shelter beneath trees or open structures.
EMERGENCY ACCESS
The dispatch location depends on the venue. EMS will be directed to either Pinehurst Polo Fields / Pinehurst Harness Track or Rassie Wicker Park. The Incident Lead or a designated runner will meet responders at the entrance and guide them to the field.
For a medical emergency, call 911. FirstHealth emergency care is the primary regional destination. Critical cases may require air transport to Duke.
FAMILY RESPONSIBILITIES
Keep emergency contact and medical information current.
Follow coach and club-leadership instructions during an incident.
Clear access lanes for emergency responders.
Remain in vehicles during lightning delays until the all-clear.
Report injuries or safety concerns promptly.
QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS
Contact info@southernpinesyouthrugby.com or speak with the Safety Officer or your athlete’s coach.