Concussion Protocol for Kiefer Youth Sports
- Purpose The safety and well-being of our players are paramount. This concussion protocol is designed to ensure that all suspected cases of concussion are promptly and properly managed, minimizing the risk of further injury and promoting a safe return to play.
- Recognition and Education a. Training: Coaches, umpires, players, and parents/guardians will receive education and training on recognizing the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
a. Information: Informational materials about concussions, their potential risks, and the importance of reporting symptoms will be provided to all stakeholders.
b. Protective Equipment: Ensure that players wear appropriate protective equipment, such as helmets, during practices and games.
3. Injury Assessment
a. Suspected Concussion: If a player is suspected of having a concussion, they must be immediately removed from play and evaluated by a qualified healthcare professional (QHP).
b. No Same-Day Return: Players diagnosed with a concussion must not return to play on the same day and must follow the league’s return-to-play protocol.
4. Management and Return-to-Play Protocol
a. QHP Evaluation: Following a suspected concussion, the player must undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a QHP, such as a physician or certified athletic trainer, trained in concussion management.
b. Written Clearance: Players must receive written clearance from the QHP before they can begin the return-to-play process.
c. Graduated Return-to-Play: The return-to-play protocol will follow a graduated process, including stages of increasing activity and monitoring for symptom recurrence.
d. Parental/Guardian Involvement: Parents/guardians will be informed and involved in the management and return-to-play decisions for their child.
5. Communication and Documentation
a. Notification: Coaches, parents/guardians, and league officials will be promptly notified of any suspected or diagnosed concussions.
b. Medical Records: Maintain accurate and confidential medical records related to concussions, including evaluations, clearances, and follow-up care.
6. Player Education
a. Concussion Awareness: Educate players about the importance of reporting symptoms and the risks of continuing to play with a concussion.
b. Safe Play: Emphasize safe and fair play, encouraging players to follow rules and avoid actions that could increase the risk of head injuries.
7. Return-to-Learn
a. Academic Accommodations: Work with schools and educators to provide necessary academic accommodations for players recovering from concussions.
b. Graduated Return: Implement a graduated return-to-learn process for players returning to academic activities.
8. Review and Updates
a. Annual Review: The concussion protocol will be reviewed annually by the league’s board of directors and medical advisors to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with best practices.
b. Updates: Make updates and revisions to the protocol as needed based on advances in concussion management and regulatory requirements.
9. Compliance All coaches, umpires, players, parents/guardians, and league officials are expected to comply fully with this concussion protocol. Non-compliance may result in disciplinary action and could jeopardize a player’s eligibility to participate.
Kiefer Youth Sports prioritizes the health and safety of our players. By following this concussion protocol, we aim to protect our athletes and provide a supportive environment for their recovery and safe return to play.
Date: April 11, 2024