NFHS Launches New Concussion Awareness Course
Impacts that can result in a concussion are a risk of participating in sports and athletics and cheerleading is no different. Tumbling, partner stunting and spotting all pose a risk of a fall or collision.
Figures from the Consumer Product Safety Commission show that in terms of total numbers, head injuries seen in hospital emergency rooms is lower for cheerleading than many other sports. This speaks to the prevention efforts of organizations like the AACCA, NFHS and USASF as well as to the efforts of so many coaches who follow skill progressions and parents who are actively involved in promoting cheerleading safety. Recent changes in safety rules for younger school age cheerleaders should further reduce these numbers.
As I posted here recently, the most important thing a coach can do is both prevent and prepare for emergencies. The National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) has launched a new course at the NFHS Learning Center titled “Concussion in Sports – What You Need To Know“. This course, developed by the NFHS along with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is one more way to be prepared as a coach to “recognize a suspected concussion, the proper protocols to manage a suspected concussion, and steps to help your player return to play safely after experiencing a concussion.”
I just completed the course in about 80 minutes and it was very informative. With more than 25 years of experience working with young athletes as an instructor, coach and administrator I have a decent level of knowledge of concussions. My recent discussions with experts in the field has heightened that knowledge, particularly in the area of Second Impact Syndrome. The course was very well done, with great information every coach and parent should know about concussions. Included in the course are several resource materials for downloading and further reference.
This course is being made available for free at http://www.nfhslearn.com/electiveDetail.aspx?courseID=15000. Every AACCA Safety Instructor will be completing this course. I strongly urge every cheerleading coach and parent to complete this course as well.
Links:
Posted: May 19th, 2010 under Other.