Concussion
CONCUSSION AWARENESS AND EDUCATION
Concussions are a critical issue in youth sports. The Andover Huskies Youth Hockey Association takes concussion awareness very seriously and provides the information on this page as a tool for hockey families.
WHAT IS A CONCUSSION?
A concussion is a brain injury. Concussions are caused by a bump or blow to the head. Even a "ding," "getting your bell run", or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.
You cannot see a concussion. Signs and symptoms of a concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks following the injury.
Minnesota Hockey has implemented new concussion protocol to protect our players from the effects of concussions. For a copy of the new protocol, click on the link below:
Minnesota Hockey Concussions Management Protocol and Requirements
CONCUSSION ACTION PLAN
In the event of a concussion or concussion-like symptoms of any kind coaches will enact a concussion action plan and file a formal report with MN Hockey. Should symptoms appear off ice parents should enact their own action plan then report the situation to the player's coach.
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CONCUSSION REQUIREMENTS
The State of Minnesota enacted laws that govern the way coaches and administrators deal with a player suspected of suffering a concussion. All coaches are required to get formal training to aid them in concussion symptom recognition.
Coaches will NOT allow a player to return to a game or practice who is suspected of receiving a concussion. Only a qualified medical professional may clear a player to return to action. Do not try to influence coaches to let your child play. There will be no exceptions!
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CDC CONCUSSION INFORMATION FOR PARENTS
The Center for Disease Control (CDC) has a page dedicated to providing information on concussions in youth sports. Parents are should review the concussion materials contained on this page Heads Up for Parents.
Parents are also encouraged to participate in this free online concussion training course provided by the CDC: Heads Up to Youth Sports