Concussion protocol: what to know

Concussions are medical emergencies. Play them that way.

Every youth sport has concussion risk — not just football. Soccer, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, wrestling, skiing. Knowing the signs could save your career or your life.

Immediate symptoms (on the field)

• Headache that gets worse
• Confusion (forgetting the play, score, opponent)
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Nausea or vomiting
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light
• Slurred speech
• Loss of consciousness (even brief)

If ANY of these, you're done for the day. No argument.

The 24-hour rule

Even if the symptoms seem to go away, any head impact + ANY symptom means:

• No physical activity for 24-48 hours
• See a doctor (urgent care or sports med)
• Return-to-play protocol takes 5-10+ days, step by step

Second-impact syndrome

Returning too soon while still concussed and taking another hit can cause permanent brain damage or death. This is not theoretical — it kills several high school athletes every year.

What to tell your coach

"Coach, I hit my head. I have [symptom]. I need to sit."

A good coach respects this 100%. If you have a coach who pressures you to play through a head injury — that's a coach to stay away from, and their conduct may be reportable to the state athletic association.

Your right

Every state now has a "concussion law" — coaches, parents, and athletes are required to be educated. If you feel pressured to play through a suspected concussion, you have the legal right to sit.