U.S. Soccer Concussion & Player Development Initiatives

The U.S. Soccer Player Development Initiatives are now MANDATORY

Background

The U.S. Soccer Concussion & Player Development Initiatives are mandatory for all WV Soccer Association member leagues and sanctioned events.  They have three main areas of focus:
  1. Concussion Initiatives
    • Head Injury Return to Play Protocol
    • No Deliberate Heading at U11 and Younger Age Groups 
    • No Punts or Dropkicks by Goalkeepers at U10 and Younger Age Groups
       
  2. Birth Year Registration
     
  3. Small Sided Games
    • 4 v 4 at U8
    • 7 v 7 and Build Out Line at U10 
    • 9 v 9 at U12
The resources below will provide additional information and implementation guidance for referees, coaches and league administrators.

Pre-Season:  Setting Up Your League, Fields & Teams
 
During the Season:  Developing Your Players
 
During the Game:  Enforcing the PDI Modifications to the Laws of the Game

U.S. Soccer Concussion & Player Development Initiatives for Referees

U.S. Soccer Concussion & Player Development Initiatives Clarification for Referees