According to the CDC, a concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury from a blow to the head or hit to the body that causes the brain to move back and forth within the skill and interferes with normal brain function. A concussion can occur in the absence of loss of consciousness.

Concussion Facts and Figures in Youth Soccer

Concussions are common in youth soccer. Of all youth soccer injuries seen in the emergency room, approximately 7% were concussions and head injuries. Most of these occurred in adolescent (ages 12-17) soccer players. (Source: ABC News)

In soccer, concussions are most likely to happen during direct contact with another player or contact with the ball during “heading.

If your child shows one or more of the above signs/symptoms of a concussion, remove them from play and consider seeking medical attention.

When Emergency Treatment is Needed:

According to the U.S. Soccer Concussion Procedure and Protocol for U.S. Youth Soccer events, seek emergency treatment when one or more of the following signs/symptoms are present:

• Spine or neck injury or pain
• Behavior patterns change, unable to recognize people/places, less responsive than usual
• Loss of consciousness
• Headaches that worsen
• Seizures
• Very drowsy, can't be awakened
• Repeated vomiting
• Increasing confusion or irritability
• Weakness, numbness in arms and legs

When No Emergency Treatment is Needed:

If a concussion is suspected and your child does not need emergency treatment,  remove your child from play and monitor them for the above signs/symptoms every 5-10 minutes for the next 1-2 hours. Do not allow them to return to play. Consider restricting them from physical and cognitive activities for the next 24 hours and until you can seek professional medical care.

The athlete (and their parent/guardian, if present) should complete the Concussion Notification Form. This form should be signed by a team official of the athlete’s team. When the parent or guardian is not present, the team official who signed the form is responsible for notifying the athlete’s parent/guardian as soon as possible. The team official must document how the parent/guardian was contacted and provide a copy of the Concussion Notification Form.