Concussion Protocol

(February 28th, 2025)

For the protection and safety of all players, the CSSA has established a clear concussion protocol policy to employ in the event a player sustains a blow to the head from a batted ball, collision with another player, fall, etc.

Background:

Americans suffer approx. 3.8 million mild closed head injuries (concussions) per year. Of these, approximately 50% involve the elderly (over 55 years old) and approx. 50% of those head injuries to our elderly are the result of sports or physical activity.

Sports Concussions are defined as traumatic head injuries that occur from mild or severe (and direct or indirect) blows to the head while participating in a sport or physical activity.

Initial signs and symptoms of a mild concussion may include:

  • Confusion
  • Disorientation
  • Short-term memory loss.

These signs & symptoms may disappear within minutes and are often minimized or not even reported. Untreated, continued physical activity may expose the player to the risk of serious, long-term effects, including neurological impairment, depression, cognitive deficits, and a higher risk of subsequent concussions.

Signs of a more serious concussion include:

  • Repeated vomiting or nausea
  • Convulsions or seizures (shaking or twitching)
  • Unusual behavior
  • Increased confusion
  • Restlessness or agitation
  • Loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out)
    • A brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously. 

Close attention must be made to players who are taking prescribed blood thinners (Warfarin, Coumadin, Xarelto, etc.) because these medications can increase bleeding after an injury – which can develop into a more serious bleeding event.

For these reasons, the CSSA Softball Safety Committee recommends the following “Concussion Protocol Policy”

  1. In the event of an obvious or suspected head injury that occurs on or around the CSSA softball fields, emergency aid (9-1-1) SHALL be called immediately.
  • A player does not have an option in 9-1-1 being called.
  1. That player SHALL immediately stop playing and SHALL be assessed before leaving the field. If the player has already left the field, he/she SHALL be assessed in the dugout. This initial assessment should focus on the presentation of headache, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, or nausea.
  • If players collide into each other and it is obvious one or both players impacted each other or the ground, players SHOULD not be moved.
  1. Any additional first aid (bandaging, ice packs, etc.) SHOULD be administered while awaiting the arrival of the Cherokee Fire Department, CFD. (or in the Case of an event at Skip Wells Park, the Cobb County Fire Department.)The player’s In Case of Emergency (I.C.E.) contact person SHOULD be notified at this time if the player approves of the notification.
  1. While waiting for CFD to arrive, the player SHALL be monitored for the continuation or worsening of initial signs & symptoms, i.e., headaches, drowsiness, dizziness, confusion, nausea/vomiting, etc.
  1. If the CFD recommends the player seeks immediate professional treatment, the player SHALL be allowed to decide whether to: (CFD may make that decision depending on severity of injury)
  • Accept emergency transport to a medical facility;
  • Seek private transportation to a medical professional or facility;
  • Go home (or remain at the ballpark) for continued monitoring.
  1. The player SHALL be made aware that he/she WILL NOT be allowed to participate in any softball-related activity (including playing, practicing, scorekeeping, groundskeeping or umpiring) for the rest of the day.
  1. If the CFD recommends less than emergency medical treatment, or continued at-home monitoring or treatment, the player SHALL be allowed to decide whether to:
  • Remain at the ballpark, rest, and continue monitoring
  • Have someone check in with the player to ensure they are still feeling okay after returning home.
  1. If the CFD fails to find sufficient evidence of a concussion, the player is free to stay or leave, with the understanding that they CANNOT play or practice softball for the rest of the day.
  1. The player may not return to play unless they provide sufficient proof that they have been cleared by a medical professional, if they were found to be required to go to the ER or urgent care.
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