In July 2011, the state of Virginia brought into law the Student Athlete Protection Act, an awareness act providing guidelines and procedures regarding identification and handling of suspect concussions. Though this law is directed to middle and high schools, RYA is committed to the safety of our football players and include this information to educate athletes, parents and coaches.
RYA and other youth sports organizations in Virginia follows Code 22.1-271.5 related to policies for student-athletes with concussions:
http://lis.virginia.gov/cgi-bin/legp604.exe?101+ful+CHAP0483+pdf
Signs a player may have a concussion
Appears dazed or stunned
Is confused about assignment or position
Forgets plays
Unsure of game, score or opponent
Loses consciousness (even briefly)
Shows behavior or personality changes
Can’t recall events prior to or after the hit or fall
Concussion Symptoms
Headache or pressure in the head
Nausea or vomiting
Balance problems or dizziness
Double or blurt vision
Sensitivity to light or noise
Feeling sluggish
Concentration or memory problems
What a Coach should do if a Concussion is suspected
Remove the athlete from play
Inform the athlete’s parents/guardians of the possible concussion
Ensure the athlete is evaluated immediately by an appropriate health care professional
Allow the athlete to return to play only after an appropriate health care professional clears his or her return
IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE A CONCUSSION DON'T HIDE IT ~ REPORT IT ~ TAKE TIME TO RECOVER! IT'S BETTER TO MISS ONE GAME THAN THE WHOLE SEASON
IF YOU THINK A FRIEND/TEAMMATE HAS A CONCUSSION TELL YOUR COACH AND/OR YOUR PARENTS.
STEPPING UP FOR YOUR FRIEND COULD SAVE THEIR LIFE
