Making Portable Soccer Goals Safe

Play hard, play safe

Portable soccer goals (or movable soccer goals, as they are referred to by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission) are one of the most vital pieces of soccer equipment for skill development and recreational games.

However, since these soccer goals are not permanently anchored to the ground, they do come with an element of risk. Making portable soccer goals safe means following both the manufacturer's instructions and the Consumer Product Safety Commission's guidelines for the safe use of portable soccer goals.

Adhere to all safety guidelines

Though instances are rare, portable soccer goals that are not properly anchored can fall over and kill or injure children who climb on them or hang from the crossbar. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports that at least 28 deaths have occurred as a result of soccer goals falling over since 1979. Both homemade and professionally manufactured soccer goals are involved in these incidents. To help prevent deaths and injuries associated with soccer goals, the CPSC recommends the following safety suggestions:

Securely anchor or counter-weight portable soccer goals at all times.

Never climb on the portable soccer goal net or goal framework.

Always instruct soccer players on the safe handling of and potential dangers associated with portable soccer goals.

Use portable soccer goals only on flat, level playing fields.

Check all equipment for wear before every use. Replace damaged or missing connecting hardware immediately.

Ensure that all safety labels are clearly visible.

Remove nets when you are not using the goals.

Fully disassemble portable soccer goals for seasonal storage.

Besides adhering to all CPSC safety guidelines for the use of portable soccer goals, there are still more precautions you can take to ensure your portable soccer goals provide years of accident-free enjoyment.

Fully educate children and other players about the safe use of portable soccer goals.

Young children using portable soccer goals should be supervised by an adult.

Never use portable soccer goals, hardware, anchors, or stakes that are worn or damaged.

Not only are these guidelines intended to keep players safe, but they will also protect the soccer goals themselves, thus ensuring years of quality practice and safe, fun soccer.

More information on soccer goals