Player/Parent Concussion Awareness Form

WHAT IS A CONCUSSION? A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain normally
works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the head and brain to move
quickly back and forth. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head
can be serious.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCUSSION? Signs and symptoms of concussion can show up
right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury.
If an athlete reports one or more symptoms of concussion after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, s/he should
be kept out of play the day of the injury. The athlete should only return to play with permission from a health care
professional experienced in evaluating for concussion.

WHY SHOULD AN ATHLETE REPORT THEIR SYMPTOMS? If an athlete has a concussion, his/her brain needs
time to heal. While an athlete’s brain is still healing, s/he is much more likely to have another concussion.

Repeat concussions can increase the time it takes to recover. In rare cases, repeat concussions in young athletes can result
in brain swelling or permanent damage to their brain. They can even be fatal.