Kansas Law and Concussions

Source: Wichita Eagle

 

A recent online article by Andi Atwater of the Wichita Eagle (2/21/12) reports on the seriousness of concussions in youth sports and the new law which was passed in 2011 dictating to high school athletes and trainers what has to occur if a student athlete receives a head injury during a practice or game.  It also points out the importance of students, coaches and parents becoming educated about this issue.  As recently as fall of 2011, there have been reports in our state regarding student athletes collapsing on fields due to a head injury and at least one death - so this is not an issue to take lightly.

www.kansas.com/2012/02/21/2223925/new-kansas-law-targets-concussions.html

The US Youth Soccer Association has recently announced a partnership with Axon Sports to allow parents or coaches to gain access to an online cognitive baseline test for as little as $2.50 per player.  The system is easy to use, secure and convenient.  Go to axonsports.com/usyouthsoccer to learn more information about this program and what it entails.

In addition, the Kansas Youth Soccer Assn recently asked Taylor Twellman, former MLS Soccer player with the New England Revolution, to address a room full of coaches and administrators regarding his very personal experience with a career ending head injury.  Taylor, as a result of his injury, has started a non profit foundation soley dedicated to raising awareness about this quiet but deadly condition.  Go to:  www.thinktaylor.org

We plan to continue to address this issue and determine ways in which we can help our parents, players and coaches be informed and educated about prevention, treatment and the cognitive effects these injuries are inflicting on our youth players.  We hope to make this information available to our clubs for distribution and create an atmosphere that gives coaches and parents important tools which they can use to keep their youth players healthy.

For more information and links to other important concussion information,  go to the education page for parents, coaches or players on our website:
www.kansasyouthsoccer.org/education/parents.aspx