Horseheads Youth Football
Concussion Protocol
Revised: 3/28/24

Signs of a Concussion:
• Dazed or stunned
• Confused about position, play, etc
• Forgets instructions
• Moves clumsily or shows poor balance
• Behavior or mood changes
• Loses consciousness for any period of time

Symptoms of a Concussion (reported by player):
• Headache or pressure in the head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Sensitivity to light or sound
• Does not “feel right” or is “feeling down”

If a Concussion is Suspected:
1. Remove the athlete from play immediately
2. Ensure the athlete is evaluated by a qualified medical professional
3. Inform the athletes parent or guardian
4. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury or until the athlete is cleared by a
medical professional

Return to Play:
Only begin return-to-play protocol after the athlete is symptom free and has been given
permission by a qualified medical professional
Coaches should work with parents to monitor athlete
Only one step per day
Only move to the next step is the athlete remains symptom free for 24 hours following the
previous step
If Symptoms reappear, sit the athlete out and return to qualified medical professional

Return to Play Steps:
1. Back to regular non-athletic activities (school)
2. Light activity (walk, light jog, biking)
3. Moderate activity (moderate jogging, weightlifting, etc)
4. Heavy non-contact activity (sprinting/running, non contact sports drills)

This protocol was developed using USA Football Concussion Recognition and Response
Will be re-evaluated prior to the start of each football season