Robert R. Sefcik, ATC Jacksonville Sports Medicine Program FASMED FHSAA SMAC

Objectives  Introduce concussion  Identify common questions  Reference Florida Statute  Review FHSAA policies regarding concussion  Detail some challenges  Overall emphasis on our OBLIGATION (DUTY) to safety

Concussion  What is it? A Brain Injury How does it happen How do we know Have you ever witnessed a concussion occur?

Recognize the injury

Certain Buzz Words Generate More Questions  If I don’t witness a head injury, how would I suspect a concussion? Approximately 26 common signs and symptoms of concussion  What is a sub-concussive blow ? Repetitive blows that do not produce clear concussive symptoms  Will everyone who has a concussion get CTE ? Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy No, further research of this condition is ongoing  What can I do to help? Be educated, educate and implement continuous improvement strategies within your programs.

Can concussions be PREVENTED?  Strategies for prevention:  Education (Coaches, staff, parents, athletes and others)  Strength training  Rules review and enforcement  Accountability  Establishing school(district) based policies Recognition and removal Reporting Referral Recovery  SECOND IMPACT SYNDROME

Remove from play?

It’s the law  Florida statute requires youth athletes to follow policy established through the FHSAA SMAC  This policy is created for the safety of the youth athlete and not as a punishment.

How the FHSAA is setting the standard  Concussion action plan Identifies AHCP Recognizes importance of certified athletic trainer Highlights removal from play procedures Reviews RTP steps  Policy 40– A MINIMAL expectation  AT- 18 forms Page 1 (Initial return to activity) Page 2 (Return to competition)  Concussion education NFHS video  Minimizing exposure – LIMITED CONTACT PROCEDURES  New reporting survey – How many concussions are occurring in Florida HS Sports?

Challenges and/or shortcomings  Recognizing the injury  Educating all stakeholders Parents Coaches Doctors  Compliance with documentation  Understanding return to activity and competition

Conclusion  Review FHSAA policy in detail with your school staff  Emphasize unique school-based policy that exceed FHSAA requirements What about Impact Testing??  Determine the role and relationship of volunteer team physician support  Detail accountability

Thank you