Concussion Information

what is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury. Concussions are caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body but may also occur with whiplash or when the head strikes the ground. This trauma causes the brain to not function normally for a period of time. It is important to note that only 5-10% of people with concussions are knocked unconscious.

The past decade has seen a revolution in the management of sports-related concussions. What was once considered a relatively benign condition is now recognized as an injury with the potential for permanent complications. Having one’s “bell rung” or being “dinged” has far more serious consequences than were previously suspected.

Athletes with the signs and symptoms of a concussion should be removed from play immediately. Continuing to play with the signs and symptoms of a concussion leaves athletes especially vulnerable to greater injury. When an athlete suffers another blow to the head before completely recovering, it can lead to not only a prolonged recovery, but also severe brain swelling or second impact syndrome. These secondary injuries can have devastating and even fatal consequences. Therefore, it is especially prudent to monitor concussed athlete for a deteriorating condition.

The WIAA has provided a PDF of concussion information that details policies, procedures, and other information.

WISCONSIN STATE LAW - PER WIAA

Wis. State Statute: At the beginning of a season for a youth athletic activity, the person operating the youth athletic activity shall distribute a concussion and head injury information sheet to each person who will be coaching that youth athletic activity. The law was amended in 2013 and the concussion information and acknowledgement must only be distributed and collected to the participant once per school year (Effective: December 15, 2013). No person may participate in a youth athletic activity unless the person returns the information sheet signed by the person and, if he or she is under the age of 19, by his or her parent or guardian.

To determine compliance, schools should refer to their legal counsel and the DPI. The WIAA information is provided for reference only and is not to be considered legal advice.

Concussion, Head Injury & Sudden Cardiac Arrest Information

English

Spanish

Hmong

Concussion & Sudden Cardiac Arrest Agreements

Athlete (PDF): English | Spanish | Hmong

Parent (PDF): English | Spanish | Hmong

Coach (PDF): English | Spanish | Hmong

Check out the WIAA website to learn more or reach out to your athletic trainer if you have any questions.