Brimfield Recreation Concussion Policy

This policy aligns with Massachusetts 105 CMR 201.00

1. Purpose

To protect youth athletes by ensuring consistent recognition, removal, and proper management of head injuries and suspected concussions in all town recreation sports.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all town-sponsored youth athletic programs (Grades Pre–K to 12) including practices, games, scrimmages, and any organized team activity.

3. Immediate Removal from Play

Any athlete suspected of having a concussion must be removed immediately.

When in doubt, sit them out

Common symptoms include

• Headache or pressure in head
• Dizziness or balance issues
• Confusion or slowed thinking
• Nausea or vomiting
• Appearing dazed or “not themselves”

4. No Same-Day Return

Any athlete removed for suspected concussion may NOT return the same day under any circumstances, even if symptoms improve.

5. Medical Evaluation Required

Before returning to participation:

• The athlete must be evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider
• A written medical clearance note is required for return

6. Graduated Return-to-Play Protocol

Athletes must follow a step-by-step return process and remain symptom-free at each stage:

1. Return to normal daily activities (school, home routines)
2. Light aerobic activity (walking, easy biking)
3. Moderate activity (non-contact exercise)
4. Non-contact practice
5. Full practice
6. Return to games

If symptoms return at any stage:

• Stop activity immediately
• Return to the previous step after rest and medical guidance

7. Coach Responsibilities

All head coaches and assistant coaches must:

• Complete annual concussion training CDC HEADS-UP
• Remove any athlete with suspected concussion immediately
• Notify parent/guardian promptly
• Email the town’s sports coordinator an incident report, with date of occurrence, description of incident, and subsequent steps taken
• Forward medical clearance and player concussion history from parent/guardian to sports coordinator
• Prioritize safety over competition at all times.

8. Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

Parents/guardians must:

• Review Concussion Policy each time a child is registered for a sport
• Monitor child after suspected injury
• Provide required medical clearance to coach before return
• Communicate any known concussion history to coaches

9. Recordkeeping

The Recreation Committee will:

• Review incident reports submitted by sports coordinators
• Maintain records of suspected concussions and each player’s concussion history
• Track return-to-play clearance documentation