The Elks Youth Athletics Association (Elks Youth Soccer) is a recreational member of the Illinois Youth Soccer Association (IYSA). IYSA, as a charter member of US Soccer Federation and US Youth Soccer Association, is obligated to conduct and monitor a risk management program in Illinois. In compliance with these national policies, the IYSA adopted IYSA Rule 019 that requires all persons aged 18 years and older that have direct contact with minors in IYSA affiliated programs to submit to a background search. Our online background search management company is NCSI/SSCI via the SportsEngine platform. IYSA-required training also includes a course in concussion identification and associated procedures, as well as SafeSport training, which includes training on mandatory reporting, sexual misconduct awareness education, and emotional and physical misconduct, including bullying.
Besides the mandatory background checks, all Elks coaches are required to obtain and maintain these certifications including annual refresher training.
What Is A Concussion:
A concussion is a brain injury that:
- Is caused by a bump or blow to the head
- Can change the way your brain normally works
- Can occur during the practices or games in any sport
- Can happen even if you have not been knocked out
- Can be serious even if you have just been "dinged"
What are the symptoms of a concussion?
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
Additional concussion articles available on the IYSA website here.
Do you know enough about concussions? Take the Heads Up Concussion Test
Help your player understand concussions:
Concussion Info for Parents (National Alliance for Youth Sports)
CDC Parent Athlete Concussion Info Sheet (English)
CDC Parent Athlete Concussion Info Sheet (Spanish) / HOJA INFORMATIVA sobre la conmocion cerebral