Sun Safe Soccer
Practicing Sun Safe Soccer is vital in the fight against skin cancer. It's easy to remember the Sun Safe Soccer steps!
Before the Game
Safety first – Sunscreen, then shinguards
After the Game
Cool down. Cool off. Cover up.
How it works
Before the Game
Safety first – Sunscreen, then shinguards
Sunscreen is the best on-field defense against the harmful effects of the sun’s rays. In fact, studies have shown that sunscreen use reduces the risk of melanoma-related death by 50 percent. In order to be effective, sunscreen must be applied 15 minutes before vigorous activity.
That's why sunscreen goes on first, then shinguards!
After the Game
- Cool down – Follow the normal post-game routine.
- Cool off – Seek shade and avoid sun exposure when possible. Put tents over bench areas and take half-time breaks and post-game talks in the shade when you possible.
- Cover up – Sun-protective clothing – such as long sleeves and hats – protects the skin from the sun and keeps the body cool.
Sponsors: Check out the different opportunities to partner with Sun Safe Soccer.
Ian Maher, MD, with soccer star John O'Brian
"When I first moved from Southern California to Holland to enter the renowned Ajax youth soccer system, my father soberly stated, “Even if it doesn’t lead anywhere, at least your skin will be out of the Southern California sun!” See, my family, of Irish decent, is ghostly pale skinned. I was the kid who after taking his shirt off, would be told to take his shirt off, a classic locker room joke. My family was well aware of the dangers of sun exposure after my uncle died of Melanoma, however awareness didn’t always lead to action. For me, after three Mohs operations for skin cancer I have sobered to reality. The sun is our greatest friend, but also a potential enemy. It is like soccer. The World’s glorious game allows us to deeply know ourselves and others, but also quickly can cut with scalpel-like indifference in the form of aggression and violence. Let the sun be our friend again. Let competition be our friend.
It is simple:
Before the game, Safety First, Sunscreen then Shinguards.
After the game, cool down and cool off in the shade. Then cover up with sun protective clothing!
Thank You & Good Luck!!!"
-- John O’Brien