In today’s rapidly evolving healthcare landscape, ensuring the safety and well-being of youth athletes is more critical than ever. PlaySafe USA, a nonprofit organization led by Brandy Singleton, has emerged as a transformative force in addressing gaps in youth sports safety, particularly in underserved communities. By combining innovative healthcare solutions with community-driven initiatives, PlaySafe USA is redefining how we think about youth health, safety, and wellness in sports.
Founded with the mission of reducing preventable injuries and improving access to care for youth athletes, PlaySafe USA has developed a comprehensive model that integrates licensed athletic trainers directly into schools and community sports programs. This proactive approach is designed to not only treat injuries but to prevent them, and it has already begun reshaping the conversation around youth sports safety in communities across the country.
A New Approach to Youth Sports Safety
One of the most striking aspects of PlaySafe USA’s approach is its focus on prevention rather than reactive care. For many years, the conversation around youth sports safety has primarily revolved around responding to injuries once they occur. PlaySafe USA, under the leadership of Brandy Singleton, has shifted the conversation toward creating a sustainable, preventative model that focuses on health and wellness before problems arise.
Through the integration of licensed athletic trainers into schools and local sports teams, PlaySafe provides immediate access to medical care during practices, games, and events. This crucial service addresses the significant shortage of athletic trainers in underserved communities—especially in rural and low-income areas—where young athletes often face a lack of proper medical attention in case of injury. The organization’s model is a game-changer, prioritizing early intervention, injury prevention, and education.
“We believe that youth sports should be a place where kids can develop physically and mentally, without the risk of long-term health issues due to preventable injuries,” says Brandy Singleton. “By embedding licensed athletic trainers in schools and communities, we are providing youth athletes with a level of care that has long been out of reach for so many."
Expanding the Reach: Strategic Partnerships for Long-Term Impact
PlaySafe USA’s success is also attributed to its ability to build strategic partnerships across multiple sectors, including education, healthcare, and community organizations. The organization's expansion efforts have been supported by collaborations with policymakers, local governments, sports leagues, and corporate sponsors. This cross-sector partnership model has allowed PlaySafe to reach more youth athletes and integrate its programs into communities across the United States.
One of the standout programs, SC Project PlaySafe, exemplifies PlaySafe USA’s approach to systemic change. This statewide initiative was designed to raise awareness and drive policy reform to ensure that athletic trainers are included in every school’s sports program and that little league coaches receive safety certification. The project has garnered support from key stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, educators, and lawmakers, who recognize the value of early intervention in preventing long-term injuries and improving overall health outcomes for student-athletes.
“We’ve seen a tremendous shift in the way schools and communities view youth sports safety. The launch of SC Project PlaySafe has demonstrated that with the right resources and support, we can create an environment where every youth athlete has access to the care they need,” says Singleton.
Addressing the Holistic Needs of Youth Athletes
While injury prevention is central to PlaySafe USA’s mission, the organization’s work goes far beyond physical health. The nonprofit has integrated mental health support and opioid misuse prevention programs into its initiatives, acknowledging the diverse challenges facing young athletes today. As mental health struggles continue to rise among adolescents, especially in sports, PlaySafe USA is committed to addressing these issues through education, awareness, and prevention.
By offering mental health resources and education about the dangers of opioid misuse, PlaySafe aims to create a comprehensive model that addresses both the physical and emotional well-being of youth athletes. This holistic approach ensures that young athletes have the support they need, not only for physical injuries but also for the mental and emotional challenges they may face.
A Nationwide Movement for Change
PlaySafe USA’s efforts are not just local or regional—they have a national vision. The organization’s work is growing, with more states adopting its model and policy initiatives. Singleton’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in creating a scalable model that can be replicated in communities across the country. The organization’s success in expanding its reach is proof that the need for a comprehensive approach to youth sports safety is not just a regional concern, but a national imperative.
Through continued innovation, PlaySafe USA is positioned to be a leader in the movement to prioritize youth health and safety in sports. The organization’s long-term goal is to create a future where every youth athlete, regardless of their background or where they live, has access to the care they need to thrive both physically and mentally.
“We are building a future where health and safety are integral parts of every youth sports program,” says Singleton. “Our work is about creating an environment where athletes feel safe, supported, and empowered to reach their full potential, without worrying about preventable injuries or mental health struggles.”
Looking Toward the Future
As PlaySafe USA continues to grow and expand its impact, it is clear that the organization's efforts are transforming the landscape of youth sports safety. With a focus on prevention, early intervention, and comprehensive care, PlaySafe is not only protecting athletes but also setting the standard for how communities across the country should approach youth sports health.
Brandy Singleton’s leadership is helping pave the way for a future where youth sports programs are safe, inclusive, and accessible to all. By championing systemic change and empowering communities to prioritize the health and well-being of young athletes, PlaySafe USA is playing a key role in shaping the future of youth sports safety for generations to come.
For more information about PlaySafe USA and its programs, visit PlaySafe USA.
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Contact:
Brandy Singleton
CEO, PlaySafe USA
brandy@playsafeusa.org
