1. (a) Each PSU shall designate for each participating high school within its jurisdiction either a licensed athletic trainer who is qualified pursuant to Chapter 90, Article 34 of the General Statutes or a first responder. These persons may be employed on a full-time or part-time basis or may serve as a volunteer.

2. (b) If not a licensed athletic trainer, a first responder shall:

   1. (1) Complete and maintain certification in cardiopulmonary resuscitation as certified by an organization such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association;
   2. (2) Complete and maintain certification in first aid as certified by an organization such as the American Red Cross or the American Heart Association;
   3. (3) Complete and maintain training in concussion management as offered by an organization such as the NFHS;
   4. (4) Complete and maintain continuing education in injury prevention and management as offered by an organization such as the NFHS; and
   5. (5) Complete 10 hours total of staff development each school year specific to first aid and injury recognition and prevention. The 10 hours may include hours necessary for recertifications or renewals.
3. (c) The licensed athletic trainer or first responder shall not have concurrent coaching responsibilities during the time in which the person is working as a licensed athletic trainer or first responder.
4. (d) A licensed athletic trainer or first responder shall attend all practices and games for football and all matches and tournaments for wrestling, unless excused by the local superintendent due to emergency.
5. (e) Each PSU shall monitor the school athletic trainer's or first responder's compliance with this Rule.

History Note: Authority G.S. 115C-12(12); 115C-12(23); 115C-47(4); 115C-407.50; 115C-407.55; 115C-407.60; 115C-407.65; 116-235(b);
Emergency Adoption Eff. August 20, 2019;
Eff. March 1, 2021;
Temporary Amendment Eff. July 1, 2024;
Amended Eff. July 1, 2025.