Final answer:
According to USA Football National Youth Football Practice Guidelines, full pads and full contact drills are only allowed after an initial acclimatization period. During this time, athletes gradually progress from helmets to shoulder pads, before moving to full pads and contact drills, ensuring their safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the USA Football National Youth Football Practice Guidelines, full pads and full contact drills are not permitted to begin on the first day of practice. Initially, there is a period of acclimatization where practice sessions consist of helmet-only activities followed by a period with shoulder pads added before progressing to full pads and contact. The acclimatization period is designed to ease young athletes into physical play while focusing on safety. This phased approach helps to reduce the risk of injuries and is an important part of ensuring player safety.The exact length of the acclimatization period can vary, but typically after a few days to a week of practice without full contact, players may gradually engage in drills that involve player-to-player contact with full pads. Coaches are expected to follow these guidelines strictly to foster a safe environment for the athletes. It's important for coaches to emphasize proper technique during non-contact and contact drills to further minimize the risk of injury.In conclusion, the USA Football National Youth Football Practice Guidelines mandate a staged approach to full contact, allowing full pads and contact drills only after an initial period devoted to acclimatization and non-contact skill development.