Concussion Policy
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.
- No Activity: Complete Physical and Cognitive Rest; Recovery
- Light Aerobic Activity: Walking, Swimming or Stationary Cycling keeping intensity <70% maximum predicted heart rate, No resistance training; Increase Heart Rate
- Sport-Specific Exercises: Skating Drills in Ice Hockey, Running Drills in Soccer. No Head Impact Activity; Add Movement
- 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
- 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