League statement on FC Sharp Keys forfeiture ruling

The FC Sharp Keys vs Daggers CTX match has been forfeited by FC Sharp Keys for breach of league rule 5.5, failing to provide a certified athletic trainer; Daggers CTX will be awarded 3 points.

Rule 5.5 states: All Home Teams are to provide a minimum of One (1) certified athletic trainer (CAT) that is available to both the teams before, during, and after the game to tend to players. The trainer should be available for the visiting team at least 60 minutes prior to the game. Visiting teams may travel with their own team trainer. It is highly suggested that the home team have confirmation with the scheduled CAT days in advance and in the event the scheduled CAT is unable to attend that there is an on-call protocol in place. Under no circumstances may a match be able to play without a certified athletic trainer present and/or medical personnel certified to conduct a SCAT5 test on individuals suspected of a concussion. No trainer present will result in game abandonment, forfeiture and fines for the home team. 

“Player safety is a top priority for the Gulf Coast Premier League and its teams.” stated league VPO Jonathan Rednour “We have protocols set in place for this and it’s unfortunate this contest was allowed to be played without a medical professional present.”