Millard Athletic Association

This past year, the Nebraska Legislature unanimously passed, and Governor Heinemann subsequently signed into law, Legislative Bill 260 (LB260) better known as The Concussion Awareness Act.  In the law, “the Legislature finds that concussions are one of the most commonly reported injuries in children and adolescents who participate in sports and recreational activities and that the risk of catastrophic injury or death is significant when a concussion or brain injury is not properly evaluated and managed.”  In addition, the law was supported by a coalition of families, health-care professionals and athletic organizations, including the NFL, which is trying to get similar bills passed in all 50 states.”

Millard Athletic Association considers the protection of young athletes their highest priority. Although not required in LB260, Millard Athletic Association, in a proactive manner and to aid effective management of concussion injuries, will require a sports physical for every tackle football athlete participant this year, and a baseline concussion test for all 10U players and older.  A baseline concussion test is an interactive computer test used to measure memory, reaction time, and processing time.  Athletes will take a test before their season begins to establish "baseline" scores against which post-injury scores will be compared.  Qualified medical professionals will then use these comparisons to aid in their return-to-play decisions.

Millard Athletic Association is committed to a safe and fun environment to foster the love of the game.  We look forward to the continued participation of your young athlete.

MAA is proud to partner with NOH to provide physicals and baseline testing for our tackle athletes.  A nominal fee is involved with the baseline test and physical. Athletes are free to choose where they receive their physical, however, Millard Athletic Association has partnered with Nebraska Orthopaedic Hospital to provide both the baseline concussion test and sports physical for $15 total.  Specific information regarding time and dates will be forthcoming. 

The physicians of the NOH Sports Medicine Team are specialists and leaders in their field.  Consisting of Board Certified Orthopaedic Surgeons who are dedicated to delivering the highest standard of healthcare, these physicians are trained in the latest sports medicine procedures and technologies.

• Establish a process of identifying, selecting and training volunteer coaches, assistants and others that are committed to achieving Millard Athletic Association’s Football mission statement and objectives, while serving as role models in their conduct.
• Ensure all participants learn football fundamentals, as well as team play, good sportsmanship and fair play, in a manner that allows them to enjoy the game of football.
• Make sure that each and every player receives the opportunity to maximize their individual potential through fair and equitable treatment.
• Provide equipment, facilities and instruction that are consistent with safe play.
• Create effective processes which provide open communications with players, parents and volunteers.

Expectations for parents and spectators:

We expect parents and other spectators will follow certain guidelines which will enhance the playing experience for our children and ensure that everyone can enjoy the game. Any parent or spectator that does not display good sportsmanship during a game or practice will be given a warning followed by removal from the field if the behavior continues.

• Emphasize the importance of attending practice, paying attention and following team rules or guidelines.
• Set an example by practicing good sportsmanship and being respectful to players, parents, and coaches on both teams. Unsportsmanlike behavior, verbal abuse, and grandstand coaching is unacceptable.
• Refrain from coaching kids from the stands or sideline. Only Coaches and Players are permitted on the playing fields during a game.
• Realize that the referees are the final authority; they are closer to the game and call plays as they see them.
• Parents and Spectators can respectfully express opinions to the coach; however, the opinions should not be expressed during a practice or game and should not be expressed in front of their kids or other players. If the coaches’ response is not satisfactory, any concerns may be communicated by e-mail to the MAA’s league director.
• Realize that the players are children, and that praise is far more important than criticism.
• Realize that the coaches are volunteers who deserve thanks and respect for committing their time.
• Encourage and applaud good play by all teams; avoid criticism and overlook errors made by either team.
• Encourage discipline by having players arrive on time for practice and games.
• Help the players realize that belonging to a team requires commitment. Regular attendance and being prepared are necessary for the team to function smoothly.
• Volunteer time or assistance whenever possible.