USA Hockey Concussion Information
A concussion is a serious injury and should be treated with caution. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop over the hours or days following an impact. If a concussion is suspected, the athlete should be removed from play immediately and evaluated by an appropriate medical professional.
Signs Observed by Coaching Staff
Coaches and staff may observe one or more of the following:
- Appears dazed or stunned
- Seems confused about assignment or position
- Forgets plays or instructions
- Is unsure of the game, score, or opponent
- Moves clumsily or unsteadily
- Answers questions slowly
- Loses consciousness (even briefly)
- Shows behavior or personality changes
- Cannot recall events prior to the hit or fall
- Cannot recall events after the hit or fall
Symptoms Reported by the Athlete
An athlete may report one or more of the following:
- Headache or a feeling of “pressure” in the head
- Nausea or vomiting
- Balance problems or dizziness
- Double or blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Sensitivity to noise
- Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
- Difficulty concentrating or remembering
- Confusion
- Does not “feel right”
Concussion Action Plan
Player safety is the top priority. If a concussion is suspected—whether from a hit, fall, or collision—take immediate action. Concussions can be serious, and symptoms may not always be obvious right away.
If You Suspect a Concussion, Take These Steps:
- Remove the athlete from play immediately.
- Do not allow the athlete to continue skating or return to the bench “to see how they feel.”
- Ensure the athlete is evaluated by an appropriate health care professional.
- Do not attempt to determine the severity of the injury yourself. A qualified medical evaluation is required.
- Notify the athlete’s parent or guardian as soon as possible.
- Communicate that a concussion is known or suspected, explain what was observed, and provide the concussion fact sheet for reference.
- Return to play only with written clearance from an appropriate health care professional.
- The athlete may not participate in practices or games until medically cleared in accordance with concussion protocols.
Reminder: It’s better to miss one game than risk missing the entire season.
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