The Naperville Saints and the Bill George Youth Football League operate with player safety as the utmost priority.  Football is a contact sport so there is potential for injury, as with any sport. The Naperville Saints and BGYFL promote safer play with the following and more:

1. All Naperville Saints coaches complete Youth Certification from USA Football annually which covers player safety, techniques, abuse prevention training, and more.
2. All coaches are required to complete background checks.
3. BGYFL league rules governing safer play (e.g. striper rules, no tinting on helmet visors)
4. More…

When inclement weather is present, assume that practices and games are on unless you hear otherwise. If you plan on dropping your player off at practice, please stay in the nearby area in the event that events are cancelled. Read below for more information on the Naperville Park District’s lighting alert system.

Hear a Naperville Saints mom with two players in the program give her perspective on safety. Click on the image and go to 2:17 into the video.

Read the links below for information on safer play in football:

• Today.com: TBIs have remained high for girls, but have declined for boys.
• Give ‘em the Cold Shoulder: The Role of Shoulder Tackle in Youth Football
• Parent Perspectives: Is He Too Young for Tackle Football?
• 5 Facts to Help Parents Feel Safe About Children Playing Football
• Does CTE call for an end to youth tackle football?
• Visit USA Football for more information for parents on football safety. 

The above materials are information only and not intended to be medical advice. Please consult with your medical professional.