Concussion Awareness Now Part Of Game Plan
Both Nebraska and Iowa high school wrestlers wrapped up their seasons this weekend. Along with the wrestlers at the state tournaments were trainers keeping everyone in the best possible condition. A new Nebraska law will make concussions an issue on everyone’s mind.
“It takes an entire season of preparation, that’s what has gotten us here,” said Columbus coach Rick Benson, among those closely watching the action in Omaha. “Take downs, kids are lifting others up and returning them to the mat.”
Each time there’s a chance to score, but also a chance for injury. “The size and speed of all athletes has increased dramatically and anytime you have a strong, faster athlete there’s gonna be a little bit more of a chance for catastrophic injuries,” said athletic trainer Rob Marshall.
Which is why Marshall also watches closely. This was the first State Wrestling Tournament held since the Nebraska Legislature passed the Concussion Awareness Act. Effective this July 1st, the Concussion Awareness Act starts with education.
“When we have parents and athletes and coaches that all understand what we’re dealing with and the severity of the injury and the possible severity of it, it makes it a little bit easier to make those decisions,” said Marshall.
Decisions that include pulling athletes from practice and competition if they show signs of a concussion. “It gives everybody a chance to be a little bit more responsible.”
It’s that responsibility that could save someone’s life if all eyes are watching for more than a victory.
The new law will also require the school or organization to tell the athlete’s parents if they think the athlete has a concussion and pull them from the game or match.