Health & Safety

Concussion Awareness

Every year, players of all ages in all sports receive concussion injuries during games and practice. Characterized by an impairment of the brain’s normal function and caused by violent shaking or jarring of the brain, concussions may cause alterations in cognitive function, vision, eye movement, facial movement, or speech. Contrary to popular belief, no helmet in any sport can prevent a concussion.

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI), caused by a blow or jolt to the head that can range from mild to severe and can disrupt the way the brain normally works. Coaches, administrators and trainers play a key role in helping to prevent concussion and in managing it properly if it occurs. Having a written concussion management plan is a recommended first step.

US Lacrosse and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have partnered to develop a number of educational resources regarding concussions. These resources, titled Heads Up, contain practical, easy-to-use information designed to help reduce the numbers of this type of injury.

Must Read / Watch for All Coaches

• Concussion Management (video)
• Concussion Management Plan (pdf)
• Lacrosse Clipboard Sticker (pdf)
• Coaches Fact Sheet (pdf)
• Parents Fact Sheet (pdf)
• Athletes Fact Sheet (pdf)
• View more resources from US Lacrosse