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Concussion Policy

TAYBS Concussion Policy compliant with Massachusetts State Policy

If a player is suspected to have a concussion or head injury, a coach should remove the athlete from play for a minimum of 24 hours. Advise the athlete's responsible adult that medical evaluation is recommended. Notification of this injury should be sent to the league President and Safety Director as soon as possible. After 24 hours, a player may return to play with a doctor's note or the parent’s discretion.

Head Injuries/ Concussion Training

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow or jolt to the head that causes the brain to bounce around or twist in the skull. This can change the way the brain normally works and create chemical changes in the brain, stretch, and damage the brain cells. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.

While recovery time may vary, one study on teen athletes showed that athletes who continued play immediately after a sports-related concussion took, on average, 44 days to recover. Athletes removed from play needed 22 days to recover.

DID YOU KNOW?

  • Younger children's brains are still developing and may have a greater risk of long-term concussion effects.
  • Young, developing brains may be more sensitive to the effects of one or multiple concussions.
  • Young athletes may hide their concussion symptoms for several reasons. They may not want to lose playing time, miss a game, or let their team down.
  • Traumatic brain injuries, including concussions, can contribute to many health, behavior, and relationship issues for young people.

Signs or symptoms

  • Any loss of consciousness 
  • Confusion, forgetful or unsure of what is going on 
  • Dazed or stunned 
  • Behavior, mood or personality changes 
  • Head or neck pain 
  • Vomiting 
  • Difficult to arouse 
  • Abnormal walking or speech 
  • Dizziness 
  • Sensitivity to light or noise 
  • Feeling sluggish, or foggy 
  • Does not feel right 
  • Convulsions or seizures
  • A headache that gets worse and does not go away
  • Unusual behavior, restlessness, or agitation
  • Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
  • Significant nausea or vomiting
  • One pupil is larger than the other

Long-Term Risks

  • Some athletes may experience persistent concussion symptoms, including issues with behavior, mood, and memory.
  • Young, developing brains may be more sensitive to the effects of one or multiple concussions.
  • Returning to sports before the brain has recovered can increase the risk of complications, repeat concussions, and persisting symptoms.
  • Parents, coaches, and athletes don't get to make decisions about return to sports after a possible concussion. Only healthcare providers can do that. They will give instructions on when it's safe for the athlete to return to sports.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • 66% of high school athletes played through their sports-related concussion because they did not want to be removed from play.
  • They reported they were fearful of approaching their coach and concerned about a lack of recognition by coaches, athletes, and parents.

Concussion Plan

  • Stop play or activity
  • Remove the athlete
  • Notify the parents or guardians
  • Document the injury. This is to be shared with guardians and the league for proper follow up
  • A full return to sports usually happens after an athlete has returned to regular, non-sports-related activities (like school). Safe return to sports should happen gradually.