Section 8: Safety Considerations
Concussion Protocol
NCAA concussion management protocol: any player with actual or suspected concussion is removed from play immediately and is subject to a graduated return-to-play assessment before being cleared. Concussion substitution permits an additional substitution beyond the normal framework. NCAA medical observers may be present at championship-level events.
Heat and Air Quality
WBGT-based heat thresholds for cooling breaks and play modifications. Mandatory water/cooling breaks at high WBGT. Air-quality-index thresholds apply for venues affected by wildfire smoke.
Field and Weather
Lightning detection halts outdoor play within the standard radius of detected strikes; resumption only after the all-clear interval. Field surface inspected pre-match; unsafe conditions cause delay.
Medical Coverage
Each NCAA-sanctioned game requires at least one certified athletic trainer on the bench. Championship-level competition adds team physicians and EMT/ambulance coverage on site. Emergency action plan with AED access required at every venue.