BLOOMINGTON, Ill. – The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Board of Directors convened on Monday, June 12, 2023, for its regular meeting at the IHSA office in Bloomington. Among the consent items discussed, a notable decision was made to enhance the safety measures within high school sports.
Starting immediately, all IHSA coaches will be required to obtain CPR/AED certification from a school district-recognized provider. The recognized providers should offer curriculums similar to those of the American Red Cross and American Heart Association. New coaches must complete the certification course during their first year of coaching.
IHSA Executive Director Craig Anderson emphasized the importance of this new policy by highlighting the events surrounding Damar Hamlin’s resuscitation after suffering cardiac arrest during an NFL game last season. Anderson stated, “We recognize there will be some commitment of time and resources from IHSA schools to help bring their coaching staffs into compliance with this new policy, but know it is well worth it if even one life can be saved as a result.”
This decision aims to ensure the immediate availability of life-saving measures in case of emergencies during athletic activities. Coaches will play a critical role in providing timely assistance and support to student-athletes in such situations.
By implementing this mandatory certification, the IHSA seeks to protect the well-being of student-athletes and enhance the overall safety standards across Illinois high schools. No team will be allowed to practice, travel, or compete without at least one adult present who has fulfilled the CPR/AED certification requirement.
Although this policy will require some effort and resources from IHSA schools to bring their coaching staff into compliance, the IHSA firmly believes that the potential to save even a single life justifies this commitment.
The IHSA will collaborate with schools and district-recognized providers to ensure a smooth transition and facilitate access to CPR/AED training. Coaches are encouraged to promptly seek certification and take advantage of the resources available to meet this crucial requirement.
