Why Concussions Matter in Youth Soccer

• Youth brains are still developing, making them more vulnerable to lasting damage.
• Ignoring a concussion or returning to play too early increases the risk of second-impact syndrome, which can be dangerous or even fatal.
• Educating players, coaches, and parents leads to quicker recognition and safer outcomes.

Common Signs & Symptoms

(They may appear immediately or hours later.)

Physical:

• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light/noise

Cognitive:

• Confusion
• Memory issues
• Feeling “foggy” or slow
  
  

Emotional/Behavioral:

• Irritability
• Sadness or anxiety
• Unusual mood changes

Sleep-related:

• Drowsiness
• Sleeping more or less than usual
• Trouble falling asleep

What to Do If You Suspect a Concussion

1. Remove the player immediately from play or practice.
2. Do NOT let them return the same day, even if symptoms seem mild.
3. Seek medical evaluation from a concussion-trained doctor.
4. Follow return-to-play protocols approved by your doctor.

Treatment & Recovery

• Rest (mental + physical): Limit screen time, schoolwork, and physical activity early on.
• Gradual return: Work with your doctor and coach to follow a step-by-step plan.
• Monitor closely: Especially the first 48 hours.
• Hydration & nutrition can aid recovery.
• Avoid NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) right after injury unless advised.

Prevention Tips

• Teach proper heading technique (only for older age groups).
• Use age-appropriate balls and training methods.
• Enforce no-contact rules in practice.
• Promote respect and sportsmanship to reduce reckless play.
• Coaches should be trained in concussion recognition and protocols.

Return-to-Play Protocol After a Concussion

Important: A player should only begin this process after being symptom-free at rest and cleared by a qualified medical professional.

Each stage typically takes at least 24 hours, and the player must remain symptom-free to advance. If symptoms return, they must stop immediately and return to the previous stage after 24 hours.

Stage 1: Rest & Recovery

• Goal: Allow the brain to heal.
• What to Do: No physical activity. Limit screen time, schoolwork, and stimulation.
• Duration: Varies by individual — usually several days until symptom-free.

Stage 2: Light Aerobic Activity

• Goal: Increase heart rate without head impact.
• Examples: Walking, light stationary biking.
• No: Resistance training or ball contact.

Stage 3: Moderate Exercise

• Goal: Add movement and coordination.
• Examples: Jogging, basic soccer drills (without opponents).
• Still No: Heading, contact, or scrimmage.

Stage 4: Non-Contact Training

• Goal: Simulate sport-specific activities.
• Examples: Dribbling, passing, agility drills with teammates.
• Coach monitors: No heading or collisions allowed.
  

Stage 5: Full Practice

• Goal: Restore confidence and assess readiness.
• What to Do: Full training including heading and controlled contact.
• Must remain: Symptom-free before moving forward.
  

Stage 6: Return to Game Play



• Player may fully return to competitive matches.
• Monitor post-game for any symptoms.