I. Concussion Awareness
FWSC is promoting CDC “HEADS UP” Campaign recommended by US Soccer to recognize and reduce brain injuries such as concussions.
We are asking all of YAKS/FWSC including coaches, referees, parents and athletes to be aware of what can cause a concussion and what signs to look for.
II. Protocol and Return to Play
If an Athlete is suspected to have a concussion, either observed by a coach, parent, referee, or another player, he/she is to be removed from the game or practice immediately.
After a suspected concussion, the athlete is not to return to play WITHOUT a Doctor’s note from a certified physician after passing the gradual Concussion Return to Play Protocol.
III. Coaches should remove athletes with suspected concussions if any of the following symptoms are present after a blow to the head or sudden fall, but not limited to.
Concussion Signs Observed by Coach/Parent/Referee/Other Players
- Appears dazed or stunned.
- Forgets an instruction, is confused about an assignment or position, or is unsure of the game, score, or
- Moves clumsily.
- Answers questions slowly.
- Loses consciousness (even briefly).
- Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes.
- Nausea or vomiting
- Amnesia - Short term memory loss (Memory Loss leading up to or occurring after the suspected concussion event)
Concussion Symptoms Reported by Player
- Headache or “pressure” in head.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Balance problems or dizziness, or double or blurry vision.
- Bothered by light or noise.
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy.
- Confusion, or concentration or memory problems.
- Just not “feeling right,” or “feeling down”.
IV. If the athlete is unresponsive, call 911 immediately and monitor the athlete for Airway/Breathing/Circulation until EMS arrives. If the athlete regains consciousness, before EMS arrives, keep them still and in a comfortable position until EMS arrives.
V. Information was collected from the following sources.
http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/
http://gfellerwallerlaw.unc.edu/GfellerWallerLaw/gwlaw.html
http://www.ussoccer.com/about/recognize-to-recover/concussion-guidelines