| The purpose of this study was to review and analyze judicial decisions involving injuries to participants and spectators in youth sport activities. For this research, youth sport activities are those adult-organized sport programs that are conducted outside of the school setting.;The number of court cases is limited but the decisions have been significant. The study demonstrates that no area of youth sport is immune from the threat of a lawsuit as administrators, coaches, officials, national, state and local organizations have all been involved in litigation. The number and frequency of cases apper to be increasing and there appears to be a trend to settle cases out of court.;Recent decisions place a responsibility on those who direct youth sport activities to provide adequate supervision during practice and games and inspect and maintain the environment to insure safe conditions for participants and spectators. A new emphasis has been added for proper instruction and the duty to warn those involved in the youth sport program of inherent risks in the activity.;The increase in litigation has resulted in the rising cost of liability insurance for individuals, organizations and sporting goods manufacturers. The increased cost of insurance is beginning to place financial burdens on youth sport participants, and, in some instances, reducing participation.;State and federal legislation has been enacted to protect volunteer coaches and officials as a possible solution while several national organizations have begun to initiate educational programs to certify adult volunteer coaches.;The study has revealed a growing concern for the safety of participants and spectators involved in youth sport with guidelines designed to protect them by promoting safety. |
