We require all coaches and students to view an informative video from Sports Safety International which addresses the recognition of the signs and symptoms of a concussion, the means of obtaining proper medical treatment, the nature and risks of a concussion including the danger of continuing to engage in athletic activity after sustaining a concussion, the procedures for allowing an athlete who sustained a concussion to return to athletic activity, and current and best practices in the prevention and treatment of a concussion. We also require all students to complete an ImPACT Baseline Neurocognitive test. The test is repeated during their 5th form year. ImPACT is the most-widely used and scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system.

Kent School Concussion Return-To-Play (RTP) Guidelines

After clearance is given by Kent’s physician, each numbered stage below typically would occur in a 24-hour period, allowing athletes to rest and giving time for the physician to observe the onset of any delayed post-activity signs and symptoms. If any post-concussive symptoms do occur along the stepwise progression, the athlete is required to drop back to the previous asymptomatic stage and allowed to return to the RTP protocol after a rest period of 24 hours. The table below describes the return to play protocol as recommended by ImPACT. Once the athlete has finished, the school physician will give final clearance.

1. No Activity: Complete Physical and Cognitive Rest; Recovery
2. Light Aerobic Activity: Walking, Swimming or Stationary Cycling keeping intensity <70% maximum predicted heart rate, No resistance training; Increase Heart Rate
3. Sport-Specific Exercises: Skating Drills in Ice Hockey, Running Drills in Soccer. No Head Impact Activity; Add Movement
4. Non-Contact Training Drills: Progression to more complex training drills, e.g. passing drills in football and ice hockey, may start progressive resistance training. Must be seen by School Physician before proceeding to Stage 5; Exercise, Coordination, and Cognitive Load
5. Full-Contact Practice: Following medical clearance, participate in normal training activities; Restore confidence and assess functional skills by coaching staff.

For More Information

Heads Up Parent Fact Sheet
Heads Up Athlete Fact Sheet