Player Health and Safety
Concussion and injuries
Be Aware
Accidents and injuries can occur in the course of playing any youth sport. If you suspect that your player has suffered an injury or concussion, your athlete should be removed from the game or practice immediately. No athlete may return to activity after an injury and/or apparent head injury or concussion without medical clearance.
Spokane Youth Hockey requires that an Accident/Injury Report Form be filled out if your player is injured and/or has suffered an apparent head injury or concussion. This should be filled out promptly after the incident with the assistance of your Team Manager and/or Coach. Please see below.
50% - Of concussions go undetected.
28% - Reinjured after returning too soon.
70% - Of concussions occur during games.
Concussion Signs & Symptoms
It's better to miss one game than a season.
What The Coaches Can See
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Is confused about assignment or position
- Forgets sports plays
- Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
- Moves clumsily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness (even briefly)
- Shows behavior or personality changes
- Can't recall events prior to hit or fall
- Can't recall events after hit or fall
What the Player May Feel
- Headache or "pressure" in head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Concentration or memory problems
- Confusion
- Does not "feel right"
Action Plan
If you suspect that a player has a concussion, you should take the following steps:
- Remove athlete from play.
- Parents: Ensure your athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health care professional. Do not try to judge the seriousness of the injury yourself.
- Coaches: Inform athlete's parents or guardians about a known or possible concussion.
Athletes can return to play only with written permission from an appropriate health care professional. Please see the Return to Play Form below.