🧠 Concussion Policy & Heading Guidelines

⚠️ Heading Restrictions (U.S. Soccer Mandate)

  • Grade 5/6 and younger: No heading allowed in games or practice
  • Grade 7/8: Heading should be very limited in practice

These rules are designed to protect developing brains and reduce concussion risk. Learn more from:

🔍 Recognize the Signs of a Concussion

Concussions can affect brain function, emotions, physical coordination, and sleep. Watch for these symptoms:

🧠 Cognitive Changes

  • Confusion or amnesia (before or after the hit)
  • Unaware of game details (score, last play, team colors)
  • Slowed responses or decreased concentration
  • Disorientation (doesn’t know time, place, or date)

💬 Emotional & Mental Changes

  • Depression, anxiety, irritability, or anger
  • Emotional instability or mood swings

⚡ Physical Symptoms

  • Headache, dizziness, nausea
  • Loss of balance or coordination
  • Feeling “dazed,” “dinged,” or “stunned”
  • Seeing stars, flashing lights, ringing in ears
  • Double or blurred vision

🌙 Sleep Disruptions

  • Sleeping too much or difficulty falling/staying asleep
  • Recommended sleep by age:
    • 6–13 years: 9–11 hours
    • 14–17 years: 8–10 hours
    • 18–25 years: 7–9 hours

🛑 Recover: Remove, Evaluate, Rest

Quick action prevents long-term damage. Follow these steps:

🚫 Remove

  • Immediately remove the athlete from play after any blow to the head or body
  • When in doubt, sit them out
  • Referees have final say on return-to-play decisions

🩺 Evaluate

  • Have a health care professional assess the athlete
  • Do not attempt to judge severity yourself

🛌 Rest

  • Never rush a return to play
  • Player must be cleared by a medical professional
  • Inform parents and follow up with documentation