BY DAVID DEACON
Cooper City High is mandating concussion tests for all sport players this year to help improve safety and prevent repetitive brain injuries.
The test is composed of memory and reaction challenges, of which the objectives are to memorize words, shapes, and placement of symbols. After the test is completed a personal baseline is created. If a player gets hit, and may have a possible concussion, they retake the test. If the player scores lower than their baseline (depending on how much), they may have a concussion. By comparing the two tests, the severity of the concussion can be seen.
“The test is important because it provides massive amounts of data about student athletes and can lead to better treatment,” principal Wendy Doll said.
Last year only three sports had to take the concussion test, football, girl’s soccer, and lacrosse. This year, every sport is taking the test, including non-contact sports like cross country and track.
“The concussion test isn’t necessary in every sport, but you can still fall while running,” CCHS athletic trainer Jack Famigilio said.
Previously, there was no standard to test players against for a possible concussion. Without the baseline standard, the results were inconclusive. Now players are more likely to get the proper treatment.
“The test is not beneficial to the player, but to the coach and trainer to see how long it’ll be before the player can get back to playing,” Famiglio said.
The reason the concussion test went into effect is to help promote safety. Repetitive brain injuries have become a big issue in sports recently. When it comes to concussions, teenagers are the most prone to them. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that nearly 2 million brain injuries are suffered by teenage players every year.
“The best reason for the concussion test is to be safer in the long run for college and life. There is a study that shows there is a connection between multiple concussions that can lead to depression and suicide,” Famiglio said.
Earlier this year the Florida State Legislature passed a bill that mandates that the Florida State High School Athletic Association establish rules for concussions, however the actions Broward County have taken in concussion testing are far ahead of that mandate.
“The test is a luxury not many schools outside of Broward County have. In the future it should be covered by insurance so that every school can have it,” Famiglio said.
