"Red River" Classic
Shreveport, LA

"Schedule Info"
updated July 25, 2010

RVA’s,

I have been asked to address the Regions in regard to the new rule in the USAV 2009-2011 DCR about Junior teams warm ups.  The new rule prohibits the team off the court from using balls both in the playing area and spectator areas.  USA Volleyball has received some feedback that there is confusion on the rule both from officials and regions concerning the enforcement and reasons for the rule.  I hope I can clear it up a little bit.

The reason for the rule is strictly for safety and liability reasons.  Mike Price of ESIX provided me with the following that should clearly state why we as Regions need to encourage our officials and tournament administers to enforce this rule:

“In regard to the exclusive use of court USAV enacted this rule to protect the spectators as a result of an increase in the  number of incidents directly related to errant volleyballs entering the spectator areas during warm up.   Not only is there a danger posed to the general public (who have not signed a waiver of release) there is a heightened exposure from a spectator related claim as the event is not adhering to the rules required for a sanctioned event.   There is also an increase in personal exposure to the event director if he is aware of this and does not take corrective measures as this could be interpreted  as negligence which is NOT covered under the USAV policy.”

As to enforcement, the officials clearly have authority to control the actions and behavior of the participating teams when they are in the playing area during warm-ups.  All other teams and individuals using balls in the spectator areas would need to be monitored and enforced by the Tournament Director/Administration.

It is vital that Regions communicate the importance of enforcing this rule to your officials and tournament directors for the safety of all our participants as well as the due diligence of our risk management program.

Thank you for your attention to this matter.  Let Margie, Mike, or me know if you have questions.

 Kevin Wendelboe
Chair-RVA/USAV Insurance Committee

Subject:   "Shreveport Convention Center" Regulations Policy
To:           Attendees
From:       Mary Williams, Director of Event Services

NO FOOD, DRINKS, COOLERS, ETC. MAY BE BROUGHT INTO THE CONVENTION CENTER.

PLAYING WITH BALLS IS PERMITTED IN THE EXHIBIT HALL VOLLEYBALL AREAS ONLY.  ALL OTHER AREAS ARE RESTRICTED.

PLAYING ON ESCALATORS IS NOT PERMITTED.

CHILDREN UNDER 12 SHOULD BE SUPERVISED BY AN ADULT AT ALL TIMES.

THANK YOU,
SCC MANAGEMENT