Does a coach have a legal duty to provide adequate and proper equipment throughout the season?

A coach does indeed have a legal duty to provide adequate and proper equipment throughout the season. This responsibility is grounded in the principle of ensuring the health and safety of the athletes under their supervision. Coaches must meet a standard of care that is expected to protect athletes from harm, which includes providing equipment that is safe and appropriate for the activity.

Proper and adequate equipment helps in reducing the risk of injury, which can have serious legal implications. If a coach fails to provide the necessary equipment, they may be held liable for any injuries that result from that negligence. This duty is not limited to contact sports or specific levels of competition; it applies broadly to all sports and activities where the coach oversees participants. Therefore, the emphasis on consistent provision of proper equipment throughout the entire season underlines the ongoing nature of this responsibility, ensuring that athletes are always prepared and protected during practices and competitions.