Child Protection Policy

Sandy Spring Soccer Club


1. Purpose

Sandy Spring Soccer Club (“SSSC”) is committed to providing a safe, inclusive, and positive environment for all children participating in its futsal programs. The Club has a zero-tolerance approach to abuse, neglect, harassment, and misconduct. This policy establishes clear standards to protect minors and ensure their well-being.


2. Scope

This policy applies to all individuals involved with Sandy Spring Soccer Club futsal activities, including:

  • Coaches, trainers, and referees
  • Club administrators and staff
  • Volunteers and contractors
  • Board members and program directors
  • Any adult interacting with minors during SSSC activities, events, practices, games, camps, or communications


3. Definitions

  • Child / Minor: Any person under the age of 18
  • Abuse: Physical, emotional, sexual abuse, or neglect
  • Bullying / Harassment: Repeated or severe behavior intended to intimidate, humiliate, or harm


4. Code of Conduct

All adults associated with Sandy Spring Soccer Club must:

  • Treat all participants with respect, dignity, and fairness
  • Promote sportsmanship and positive coaching
  • Maintain appropriate professional boundaries
  • Follow the Rule of Two whenever practicable


Adults must not:

  • Use physical punishment, verbal abuse, intimidation, or humiliation
  • Engage in inappropriate physical contact or sexual behavior
  • Be alone with a minor in a closed or isolated space
  • Communicate privately with minors via personal social media or direct messaging
  • Use alcohol, drugs, or tobacco during any SSSC activity
  • Transport a minor without prior written parental/guardian consent


5. Supervision & Participant Safety

  • Activities must take place in open, observable environments
  • Locker rooms and restrooms shall be monitored while respecting privacy
  • Coaches and staff must remain on site until all players are picked up by authorized adults
  • Emergency contact information must be accessible at all activities
  • Injuries and safety incidents must be reported promptly


6. Electronic Communication & Social Media

  • Communication with minors must be program-related and transparent
  • Parents/guardians should be included whenever possible
  • No secret, private, or disappearing messages
  • Photos or videos of minors may only be shared with parental/guardian consent and for official club purposes


7. Reporting Concerns or Suspected Abuse

Any suspicion, disclosure, or allegation of abuse, neglect, or violation of this policy must be reported immediately.

Reports should be made to:

SSSC Program Administration

📧 Email: jreid@sandyspringsoccer.com

📞 Phone: 301-613-9065


If a child is in immediate danger, call 911 immediately.

Sandy Spring Soccer Club will comply with all applicable mandatory reporting laws and will cooperate fully with law enforcement and child protective services.


8. Response & Investigation

  • All reports will be taken seriously and addressed promptly
  • Individuals may be temporarily suspended from duties pending investigation
  • Confidentiality will be maintained to the extent permitted by law
  • Retaliation against any person who reports concerns in good faith is strictly prohibited


9. Screening & Training

  • Coaches, staff, and regular volunteers must complete:
  • Background checks as required by the Club, insurers, and facility providers
  • Child protection or SafeSport-style training
  • Compliance records will be maintained by the Club


10. Disciplinary Action

Policy violations may result in:

  • Verbal or written warnings
  • Suspension or removal from the program
  • Termination of employment or volunteer status
  • Referral to governing bodies or authorities when required


11. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually and updated as necessary to reflect legal requirements, facility rules, and best practices.