We all need to be cognizant of concussion symptoms and what to do when we suspect an athlete may have a concussion and California has a law that is requiring all of us take some training. The requirements for all teams to complete are:
- All coaches and team administrators are required to take the approved training – links below
- All athletes need to be given the concussion information sheet (link) and return a signed acknowledgement form (attachment).
Please complete these requirements as soon as possible. Below is more information on these requirements as provided by USA Swimming:
California has modified existing school concussion law to apply the concussion requirements to youth sports organizations in which athletes participate, including swimming.
- The law requires that a youth athletic program must immediately remove an athlete from an athletic activity for the remainder of the day, if the athlete is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury , and prohibit the athlete from returning to the activity until the athlete is evaluated by a licensed health care provider, trained in the management of concussions, and acting within the scope of his or her practice. The athlete must receive written clearance from the licensed health care provider to return to the athletic activity. If the athlete is diagnosed with a concussion, they must go through a graduated return to play protocol of no less than seven days under the supervision of a licensed health care provider. Youth sports organizations must also notify the parents or guardians of athletes 17 or younger who have been removed from athletic activities due to suspected concussions.
- Coaches and administrators must successfully complete the concussion and head injury education required under the bill at least once either online or in person. The following courses from CDC or NFHS satisfy the requirements. Coaches and administrators must keep evidence of passing these courses to provide to San Diego Imperial Swimming.
CDC Concussion Course (English)
NFHS Concussion Course (English and Spanish versions available)
- Youth sports organizations must also give a concussion and head injury information sheet to each athlete. The attached acknowledgement sheet shall be signed and returned by the athlete and, if the athlete is 17 years of age or younger, shall also be signed by the athlete’s parent or guardian, before the athlete initiates practice or competition. The information sheet may be sent and returned through an electronic medium including, but not necessarily limited to, fax or electronic mail.
Concussion Information Sheet for Parents and Swimmers
- USA Swimming has also developed concussion and head injury education materials for coaches and administrators. Attached is a concussion at the pool checklist for coaches, officials, and parents.
