Concussion Management Policy

What is a Concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that is caused by a bump or blow to the head that changes the way the brain normally works. Concussions can occur during practices or games in any sport. A player does not need to lose consciousness for a concussion to occur.

Some Signs and Symptoms of a Concussion:

• Headache or a feeling of pressure in the head

• Nausea/vomiting

• Balance problems or dizziness

• Double or blurry vision

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Confusion, difficulty paying attention or remembering things

What to do if a concussion is suspected:

Tell a coach or parent. Never ignore a bump or blow to the head. Also, tell a coach or parent/legal guardian if a teammate might have sustained a concussion. Get evaluated by a medical professional. A doctor or health care provider can tell you if you have sustained a concussion and when you are OK to return to play. Rest! Give yourself time to get better. If you have a concussion, your brain needs time to heal. While developing brains are recovering from a concussion they are more likely to sustain a second concussion, also known as Second Impact Syndrome. This condition can cause permanent brain damage, or even death. It is important to rest until you get approval from a doctor or qualified health care provider before you return to activity.

IC Kickers Management:

• The club will ensure that all coaches and staff are educated in the nature and risk of concussions. Resources are available thru the CDC’s Heads Up training available on the clubs webpage.

• Staff and coaches will ensure that any player who received a serious blow to the head, even without immediate symptoms is removed from competition until they have been assessed by a qualified health care provider. Symptoms are not necessarily immediate but can turn up days later.

• The health care provider who has cleared the athlete must provide the coach and club with a written statement that the player has been cleared to play.

• Even after having been cleared to play by the health care provider, the coach should monitor the player for any of the symptoms above and refer them back to their health care provider for follow up and a potential change in their return to play procedure as a second concussion can cause severe consequences.

• Parents must present a release to their coach and to a club administrator before return to a practice or game.

policy approved: 10/5/2016