Chapter L - Athletics

Part 10.0 - Sport Safety

Section 10.3.1 - Concussion 

Policy Statement: 

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. An athlete does not have to lose consciousness (be "knocked out") to have suffered a concussion. Common symptoms of concussion include:

• Headache
• Fogginess
• Difficulty concentrating
• Easily confused
• Slowed thought processes
• Difficulty with memory
• Nausea
• Lack of energy, tiredness
• Dizziness, poor balance
• Blurred vision
• Sensitive to light and sounds
• Mood changes irritable, anxious, or tearful

Athletic Parent/Student Handbook

1. No athlete will return to play (RTP) or practice on the same day of a concussion.

2. Any athlete suspected of having a concussion should be evaluated by an appropriate

healthcare professional that day.

3. Any athlete with a concussion will be medically cleared by an appropriate healthcare

professional prior to resuming participation in any practice or competition.

4. After medical clearance, RTP will follow a stepwise protocol with provisions for delayed RTP based upon return of any signs or symptoms.

Step 1: Light exercise, including walking or riding an exercise bike. No weight lifting.

Step 2: Running in the gym or on the field. No helmet or other equipment.

Step 3: Non-contact training drills in full equipment. Weight training can begin.

Step 4: Full contact practice or training.

Step 5: Game play.

Concussions can happen at practice or at games. If an athlete receives a blow to the head and either the coach or athlete recognizes any symptoms of concussion from above, the coach will immediately pull the athlete from the event. The steps for concussion management will be followed until the athlete is ready to RTP.