As adults, we often don’t imagine that a cardiac emergency could strike a young, healthy athlete. It’s easy to assume that these emergencies only happen to older individuals or those with preexisting health conditions. But the reality is that sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) can occur without warning, even in seemingly fit and active youth. In fact, every year, countless young athletes suffer cardiac events that could have been fatal without the right preparation and immediate intervention. The Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act, or AB 1467, was created to address this very issue, ensuring that all youth sports programs are equipped with the tools and training needed to respond to such emergencies. In this post, we’ll explore how this vital law can help protect young athletes, and how your team can stay compliant with our Youth Sports AED Package, and be ready for anything that might come their way. Don’t forget to check out our Youth Sports Safety Package.
What is the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act?
The Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act is a vital piece of legislation aimed at enhancing the safety of young athletes. This act requires all California youth sports organizations to have AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators) on-site during all practices, games, and other events. It also mandates CPR and AED training for coaches and staff to ensure that they can respond quickly in the event of a cardiac emergency. Named in honor of Nevaeh, a young athlete whose life was tragically lost to sudden cardiac arrest, this law seeks to ensure that every child on the field has the best chance of surviving such an event.
Key Components of the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act
- AED Availability: The act mandates that all youth sports programs must have AEDs on-site at all sporting events. These life-saving devices must be easily accessible and maintained to ensure they can be used immediately in an emergency.
- CPR and AED Training: Coaches and staff must complete CPR and AED training. This ensures that trained personnel can effectively use an AED and perform CPR in a cardiac emergency. The quick use of an AED can be the difference between life and death for a young athlete facing sudden cardiac arrest.
- Emergency Preparedness: The act also requires that teams implement clear and effective emergency response plans. These plans must include how to use the AED, call for emergency medical help, and provide CPR while awaiting professional assistance.
- Parental Involvement: Parents and guardians must be educated about emergency protocols, including the importance of AED availability and how they can help ensure their child’s safety during sports events.
A Case for AEDs: Youth Athlete Saves
The importance of AEDs in youth sports must not be overlooked. These devices save lives in emergencies, and their presence on the field has been critical in preventing the worst outcomes in numerous cases. Here are a few examples of youth athletes who owe their lives to the availability of AEDs and immediate response by trained first responders:
- Tylon Lott (Connecticut), In January 2025, 16-year-old basketball player Tylon Lott collapsed due to cardiac arrest after a game at Holy Cross High School in Waterbury, Connecticut. Spectators, including nurses and a firefighter, immediately performed CPR, and an AED was used to revive him. Tylon underwent surgery to place an Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) and has since returned to school, with plans to resume basketball later in the year. CTINSIDER.COM
- Randy Vitales and Magnus Miller (Oklahoma), During a high school basketball game on January 9, 2025, 16-year-old Randy Vitales collapsed from cardiac arrest. 18-year-old Magnus Miller, a trained lifeguard, quickly administered CPR and used an AED. Their swift actions, along with those of coaches and bystanders, saved Randy’s life. Both players have since developed a strong bond, and their story highlights the critical importance of AEDs and CPR training in youth sports. PEOPLE.COM
- Derrick (Florida) A 17-year-old athlete, collapsed during a practice session in Florida. Immediate CPR was administered, and an AED was used to restore his heartbeat. The quick response of those individuals present was crucial in saving Derrick’s life.
- In fact, one of our very own clients locally, a California YMCA, saved the life of an 8-year-old child (who’s name was not released) by using a ZOLL AED Plus swiftly and without hesitation.
These stories highlight how AEDs and CPR training have been the main factor in life or death situations for young athletes, underscoring why it’s crucial for every youth sports program to prioritize safety with AEDs on-site and well-trained staff.
The HEARTS Act: Taking Youth Sports Safety a Step Further
While the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act addresses state-level requirements for AEDs and emergency training, national efforts are also being made to ensure the safety of athletes at all levels. The HEARTS Act (Helping Ensure Athletes Receive Treatment in Sports) was introduced in the U.S. Congress, with Damar Hamlin, a professional football player who experienced sudden cardiac arrest during a game, leading the charge. The HEARTS Act aims to ensure that AEDs are available at all school and recreational sports events, including youth sports, and requires CPR and AED training for coaches at all levels.
The HEARTS Act supports the same objectives as the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act—making life-saving AEDs accessible to athletes of all ages, including youth sports participants.
Steps to Get Your Team in AED Compliance
Ensuring compliance with the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act and safeguarding young athletes starts with these simple steps:
- Set Up Your AED Program: Make sure your team has AEDs on-site and accessible at every event. Regularly check the devices to ensure they are functional and properly maintained. Shop special youth sports packages here.
- Complete CPR and AED Training: Ensure that all coaches and staff members are trained in CPR and AED use. This will ensure that your team is prepared to respond quickly and effectively in an emergency. Schedule Onsite Training with us here.
- Review and Update Emergency Plans: Make sure your team has a detailed emergency response plan that includes instructions for AED use, CPR, and calling for medical assistance. Review and rehearse these plans regularly. Already have an AED? Let us help with your program by subscribing to AED Navigator.
Engage Parents and Guardians: Educate parents about the importance of AED programs and ensure they understand the safety protocols in place.
Prepare Your Team with the Youth Sports AED Package
To make compliance with the Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act easier for your team, we offer the Youth Sports AED Package. This package is specifically designed to meet the unique needs of youth sports organizations, providing everything you need to implement a comprehensive AED program. It includes AEDs, CPR and AED training resources, and ongoing AED program management support to help your team stay compliant and ready for any emergency. The Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act goes into effect January 1st, 2027. However, we encourage you to get ahead of it and not delay life saving measures for your team.
Learn more about the Youth Sports AED Package and get started today.
“Recognize to Recover” – CPR and AED Training Video for Coaches
“Recognize to Recover” – CPR and AED Training for Coaches
Let’s Make Today Safer than Yesterday!
The Nevaeh Youth Sports Safety Act is a critical step in ensuring the safety and well-being of young athletes. By mandating AED availability, CPR and AED training, and effective AED program management, the law aims to prevent tragedies and protect children on the field.
Get your team compliant today and help create a safer environment for young athletes everywhere. By investing in AEDs, training, and an effective AED program, you can make sure your team is prepared to respond quickly in the event of a cardiac emergency, saving lives and ensuring that every athlete has the chance to go home safely.
