ODS safety Policy

Open Door Sports (ODS) is committed to providing inclusive opportunities for all players and will make every reasonable effort to help a player participate in our programs as long as ODS staff can maintain the player’s safety and the safety of the other participants.

ODS recognizes that some players may leave the designated program area without permission or supervision (sometimes referred to as elopement) or exhibit behaviors that are aggressive towards themselves or others. When a player leaves the designated program area, or is aggressive towards themselves or other participants, significant safety concerns can arise.

ODS programs typically have one adult coach responsible for a group of approximately 8–10 players with special needs, along with 1-2 high school assistant coaches and middle and high school volunteers. If a player leaves the program area, the coach may need to leave the group to follow and supervise that player. This creates a situation in which ODS cannot safely provide appropriate supervision to the entire group while also ensuring the safety of the player who has left.

The safety of the player is our first priority. If a player repeatedly demonstrates aggressive behaviors or leaves the designated area, ODS may need to pause the player's participation in that session or program. 

If elopement or other significant safety/behavior concerns arise, ODS staff will contact the player's family to discuss the situation and work together to identify an appropriate solution. This may include discussing additional support, identifying a program environment that better meets the player's needs, or considering participation at a later date when circumstances may be more appropriate.

ODS wants every player to have the opportunity to participate successfully. At the same time, we must ensure that we can provide a safe and supportive environment for every player in our programs.

We appreciate families partnering with ODS to help us understand each player's needs and determine the best way for them to participate safely.