Section 8: Safety Considerations
Spotters required at coach's discretion for high-risk skills. NCAA-mandated safety mats meeting FIG spec. Apparatus inspection pre-meet. Concussion protocol: removal + graduated return-to-play assessment for any actual or suspected concussion (apparatus falls and rotation-related impacts are primary risks). Spinal-injury emergency action plan required (vault and bars dismounts have highest spinal-injury risk). Required: certified athletic trainer at every meet; team physician + EMT/ambulance + AED at championship-level. Mental health support emphasized given the high-pressure nature of judged competition.