In January of 2012, a law was implemented that stated that all student athletes suspected of having a concussion must be immediately removed from a practice or  game. Recently, an amendment was added that orders all high school coaches to take a class every two years to be trained to recognize the signs of concussions and be able to properly treat them.  The goal of this new amendment is to prevent future head injuries from occurring.
“We have not had an issue at practices and games [at CHS] because we follow procedures and take the necessary precautions to ensure safety,” said Drew Fasolini, assistant defensive and offensive coach. “Focusing on safety is part of being a coach, and we take it very seriously.”
According to froedterthealth.org, people not trained in neurology may not be able to recognize concussions because most of the symptoms associated with concussions are internal. These symptoms include cognitive difficulties, changes in sleep patterns, disorientation and headaches. Ninety percent of concussions do not cause a loss of consciousness.
According to the National Football League Health and Safety Commission, this new amendment was established with the intent of making student athletes and their parents aware of the dangers of concussions. Lawmakers have been determined to ensure the removal of athletes that have possibly gotten concussions and to be certain that athletes that have suffered concussions recover. They must be cleared by a trained doctor or specialist before participating again after their injury.
“I suffered from a sports related concussion, and it was treated correctly,” said senior and varsity football player Jordan Pierce. “It was not during a game, so there was no pressure to continue playing. [The new law] is definitely necessary and beneficial because it is important that coaches know how to deal with dangerous situations.”
Concussions have not been a devastating problem at CHS because the correct measures have been taken by coaches and medical personnel to prevent them. Concussions, especially in teens, are extremely dangerous because they can cause lasting neurological and physical damages. If left untreated, concussions are likely to affect the academic capabilities and physical health of the athlete. The new amendment could mean the difference between life and death for many high school athletes.
“The more people who understand the seriousness of concussions, the better,” said health clerk Joey Levin. “Our [school’s safety measures] are excellent and our coaches are terrific, but concussions are a concern at every school.” •