This law requires all youth athletic organizations to educate coaches, athletes and parents on the risks of concussions and head injuries and prohibits participation in a youth activity until the athlete and parent or guardian has returned a signed agreement sheet indicating that they have reviewed the concussion and head injury informational materials. The law requires the immediate removal of an individual from a youth activity if symptoms indicate a possible concussion has been sustained. A person who has been removed from a youth athletic activity because of a determined or suspected concussion or head injury, may not participate again until he or she is evaluated by a health care provider and receives written clearance from the health care provider to return to the activity.
Concussion Signs and Symptoms
These are some SIGNS of concussion (what others can see in an injured athlete):
- Dazed or stunned appearance
- Change in the level of consciousness or awareness
- Confused about assignment
- Forgets plays
- Unsure of score, game, opponent
- Clumsy
- Answers more slowly than usual
- Shows behavior changes
- Loss of consciousness
- Asks repetitive questions or memory concerns
These are some of the more common SYMPTOMS of concussion (what an injured athlete feels):
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dizzy or unsteady
- Sensitive to light or noise
- Feeling mentally foggy
- Problems with concentration and memory
- Confused
- Slow
Injured athletes can exhibit many or just a few of the signs and/or symptoms of concussion. However, if a player exhibits any signs or symptoms of concussion, the responsibility is simple: remove them from participation. “When in doubt sit them out.”
Information for Parents and Athletes:
Concussion Fact Sheet for Athletes
Concussion Fact Sheet for Parents
Concussion Fact Sheet for Coaches
Concussion Management Protocol
|