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Legislatures: "Since 2007, state legislatures
in all 50 states and the District of Columbia
have enacted legislation to address youth
sports-related concussion." Although the
laws differ in each state, most share three
components:
1) Education or training on concussion
recognition and appropriate responses.
2) The removal of a youth athlete from play
or practice in the event of a suspected
concussion.
3) The return of a youth athlete to a practice
or game only after evaluation and clearance
by a health care provider.
This year, all USIndoor certified officials
are being required to complete concussion
training. Will Jorgenson, a USIndoor referee
instructor, says his home facility implemented
concussion training for referees modeled after
the CDC / NFL Heads Up concussion training
program.
"It's free, and a lot of soccer coaches and
clubs in this area use it," says Will.
We make it a requirement for all of our
referees. It's a good, basic, boiler-plate option
that is easy to implement and free to use. The
program helps deal with parents who want
their kid to keep on playing or adults who want
to keep on playing–how to identify problems
and put your foot down. Referee coordinators
can take it a step further and put something in
writing in their operations manual, saying we
are going to adhere to these standards and
stand by our decision regarding whether or not
a player can continue.
3. Host parent education seminars.
Despite the media coverage of concussions,
few parents and coaches recognize the
symptoms of a concussion, know what to do in
case of a concussion, or have had their child
baseline tested.
Educational seminars are a fantastic way to
create goodwill and build a strong connection
with athletes and their families. Seminars may
also draw new people to your facility.
The CDC's website on Injury Prevention
and Control has a wealth of information on
traumatic brain injuries, including how to find
support. According to its website:
Several groups help people and their families
deal with concussions and more serious brain
injuries. They provide information and put
people in touch with local resources, such as
support groups, rehabilitation services, and a
