Mothers Against Drunk Driving Released Coaches' Guide
The new resource aims to help coaches prevent underage drinking and substance use among student-athletes.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Substance Abuse
Live Poll
Should local coaches take a more active role in preventing student-athlete substance use?
Mothers Against Drunk Driving has launched a new guide for coaches focused on the prevention of underage drinking and substance use. The organization released the resource in conjunction with National Coaches Day to support student-athlete wellness.
Why it matters
Coaches often serve as influential mentors who can guide young athletes toward healthier lifestyles. By providing these tools, the organization aims to help leaders foster positive team cultures that discourage substance abuse.
The new initiative provides a structured framework for substance use prevention, representing the organization's latest effort to address underage drinking. The full efficacy of this guidance on student-athlete outcomes remains to be seen.
The players
Mothers Against Drunk Driving
This non-profit organization works to stop impaired driving, support victims of violent crimes, and prevent underage drinking.
The details
The guide offers practical tools designed to help coaches integrate substance use prevention into their team culture while simultaneously promoting mental wellness. It specifically targets underage drinking as a primary area of concern for high school and youth sports participants.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: Mothers Against Drunk Driving launched the new coaches' guide.
The Big Picture
The announcement follows a pattern set by the National Coaches Day, which highlights the role of mentors in student development. The organization timed the release of its new prevention tools to coincide with this national observance dedicated to honoring coaching leaders.
Coaches across the country can now access these materials to begin implementing prevention strategies within their own team environments. Parents and student-athletes may notice a change in team messaging regarding healthy choices and the importance of avoiding substances.
The takeaway
Effective prevention starts with consistent messaging from trusted figures like coaches who interact with youth daily. Encouraging open conversations about substance use within team settings can serve as a vital protective factor for young athletes.
Further reading
For more information on current efforts to combat substance use, visit the Substance Abuse section.
Live Poll
Should local coaches take a more active role in preventing student-athlete substance use?
