Player safety is an ongoing and critical concern in any youth sport. Coaches and players engage in safe practices during practice and play to avoid injuries when possible. While volleyball players do occasionally get hurt on the court, no one expects injuries to occur on the sidelines.

Unfortunately, spectator violence is becoming common in youth sports. Fights between parents or even team officials can lead to serious injuries and costly medical bills. While everyone can agree these altercations should never occur, a growing number of people are asking who is responsible if they do.

Is your club responsible if a fight breaks out at a match you’re hosting?

INJURIES IN THE STANDS AND ON THE COURT

A viral video of an altercation between former NFL star Cam Newton and two other coaches at a 7v7 youth football tournament in 2024 is only one example of such a scenario. While the incident ended without serious injuries or criminal charges, many similar situations play out across the country with extreme consequences.

During the final minutes of a high school basketball playoff game in Pennsylvania, a fight involving several spectators broke out in the stands and moved to the court. Police officers and other attendees got the situation under control without serious injuries, and criminal charges were brought against those involved. Interestingly, the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Association ordered schools to submit security plans to prevent similar incidents from occurring, suggesting that team officials would be held at least partially responsible for the actions of spectators.

Sadly, even events with the youngest players aren’t exempt from violent incidents that result in lawsuits. In one incident, a coach broke up a fight by pulling one 8-year-old boy off of another. The lawsuit alleging assault and battery claimed that the coach injured the boy that he pulled off of the other boy.

A 2022 incident at a Manassas, Virginia middle school during a youth football game is a scary reminder that spectator violence can result in serious injuries. What began as an argument ended with two men getting shot and transported to the hospital for medical treatment. The shooter was arrested and faced criminal charges, but luckily there is no report of any organization being held liable for the consequences of gunfire at an event where more than 100 children were present.

WHAT CLUBS CAN DO

Unfortunately, there is no shortage of examples of spectator misconduct at youth sporting events of all types. As people struggle to make sense of these incidents, youth sports organizations are tasked with preventing what is now considered a foreseeable risk. Taking these steps can help you protect your club against lawsuits related to spectators’ actions.

  • Develop a code of conduct with a zero-tolerance policy for violence or other inappropriate behavior.
    Codes of conduct are needed for players, staff, and parents/guardians/guests. A printed document of these regulations should be signed as part of pre-season registration and posted on the club website.
  • Place reminder signs at all games and events.
    Create signs to post at various places to remind spectators of their responsibility to behave responsibly. Include information that makes it clear violators will be removed from the premises.
  • Meet with local law enforcement.
    Meet with law enforcement before the season or a specific event to establish what resources are available and the proper contacts for an emergency. Ask about response times to an incident and the availability of police presence in high-risk environments.
ARE YOU PREPARED IF YOU’RE FOUND RESPONSIBLE?

The increasing frequency and severity of spectator violence means youth sports clubs must consider the potential risk. Serious injuries related to assault or shootings can lead to costly and ongoing medical care. A lawsuit holding your club liable could cost thousands in medical and legal costs – especially in an incident involving multiple victims. Ensuring your insurance program is adequate is one way to financially protect your club.

While your General Liability coverage protects against claims of bodily injury due to your club’s alleged negligence, most policies have an “Assault & Battery Exclusion” provision. Talking with an insurance advisor experienced in your industry is the best way to determine which types of insurance you need to protect your club against foreseeable risks.

CLOSING THE GAP: RISK PREVENTION HOT TIP
Set expectations early and often

Youth sports hosts have a duty to create a safe environment where children can thrive. Establishing a code of conduct and sharing frequent reminders will keep behavioral expectations top of mind. Download the JVA Code of Conduct, post regulations signs at events, and begin games with an announcement reminding participants of expected behavior.

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About the Author
Brad Preston is a client advisor at World Insurance Associates (World) specializing in the Sports industry. Prior to World, he spent more than 20 years at Advanced Event Systems and SportsEngine where he worked closely with the JVA and other member clubs in the volleyball space. He is well versed in club operations, staff, and member management, and most importantly, the use of technology and its inherent cyber risks. The JVA and World have partnered together to bring JVA Members educational articles and content to help you learn about your unique cyber risks and exposures, and how to better protect your businesses, members, and families in general. Feel free to reach out to Brad directly with any questions at bradpreston@worldinsurance.com