Safer Soccer Fields: Our journey to pass HB47

Four years ago, our lives seemed upside down. Our children had spent the entire summer navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, and we, as parents, were doing everything we could to provide some sense of normalcy. Covert pop-up soccer training sessions became a lifeline for our kids, while we watched daily as COVID-19 cases plateaued, hoping for a return to normalcy.

During this period, the Ohio Soccer Moms and Dads page and groups grew significantly, just like all of our virtual communities. We came together to better understand the Ohio Health Department's rules designed to keep us healthy. Youth soccer was postponed indefinitely, and the uncertainty weighed heavily on us. It was during this time that I first reached out to Representative Richard Brown on behalf of our soccer community. I asked him to intervene, and he wrote a letter advocating for the reclassification of soccer. After countless calls to the health department and state representatives, our efforts paid off, and we were allowed to resume soccer. I was immensely grateful to Representative Brown.

Fast forward a year to 2021, when Christian Eriksen suffered a sudden cardiac arrest while competing in the Euros. It was then that I reached out to Representative Brown again, this time with a more urgent plea. I asked him if there was legislation requiring AEDs, emergency action plans, and CPR training. After several lengthy phone calls with his office, we realized that while Lindsey's Law was a good start, it wasn't enough. Without access to AEDs, young athletes were at great risk every time they stepped onto the field.

Representative Brown's office went to work, drafting improved legislation and garnering bipartisan support. In 2021, we were still in the process of writing the legislation. By 2022, we were in committee, but unfortunately, our legislation stalled. Undeterred, we pushed forward, and in 2023, we made it to the House, where we testified in support of our bill. During this journey, I met some of the most amazing individuals, including Matt and Kim Mangine and Lindsey Davis of Lindsey's Law.

This year, we started off strong. When we thought we were finally going to get a House vote, we faced another delay and had to make a few concessions. However, our persistence paid off, and we eventually made it to the Senate floor. I had the honor of testifying again, this time with my 11-year-old by my side. Each step along the we we have had so much support from soccer parents around the state. Parents called their local representative, provided written testimony and sent us validation and encouragement.

Earlier this summer, while traveling with my oldest son(for soccer, of course), I received the news that HB47 had cleared both the House and Senate. On Tuesday, July 23, we will witness the signing of our legislation into law. This new law will require more schools, parks, and public recreation centers to have AEDs available. Emergency action plans, CPR training, and emergency preparedness will not just be expected but required. Soccer fields all across Ohio will be safer for everyone.

This journey has been long and challenging, but it has been worth every moment. We came together as a community, fought for what we believed in, and made a lasting impact. Our children's safety will be ensured, and their love for the game can continue without the looming fear of what could go wrong. Together, we did it.