Concussions

Recognizing a concussion on the field can be tricky. Often, these injuries happen without any loss of consciousness or obvious signs that a player’s brain function is affected. Concussions can occur at any moment during games or practice due to impacts from the ground, the ball, or contact with another player.


At West Hills United, we're committed to the safety and well-being of our players. With more than a decade of collaboration with top medical professionals, we bring you the Recognize to Recover resources from U.S. Soccer. This valuable tool is designed to help coaches, players, parents, and referees spot the signs and symptoms of a concussion quickly, allowing for immediate and proper care. Your child's long-term development in the sport is our priority!


RECOGNIZE


Changes in brain functions:

  • Unaware of game (opposition colors, score of game, last play)
  • Confusion
  • Amnesia (does not recall events prior to the hit or after the hit)
  • Drastic changes in alertness
  • Does not know time, place or date
  • Slowed responses to questions or conversation
  • Decreased attention and concentration

Mental and emotional changes:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Anger
  • Irritability
  • Emotionally unstable

Physical changes:

  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Unsteadiness/loss of balance
  • Feeling “dinged” or stunned or “dazed”
  • Seeing stars or flashing lights
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Double vision


RECOVER


Remove, Evaluate and Rest are key steps to treating a concussion or other head injury in soccer. When a concussion is identified quickly, it prevents the injury from getting worse, and prevents the player from staying off the field for even longer.


Remove

An athlete who experiences a blow to the head or body should immediately be removed for play and should not return to play until he/she is evaluated. When in doubt, the athlete should sit out.


Evaluate

Have a health care professional evaluate the athlete immediately. Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself.


Rest

Never rush a return to play. A return to play should only occur after an athlete has been cleared by a medical professional. If you rush the return, a player is at significantly higher risk for more problems in the future.


U.S. Soccer Athlete Concussion Guideline