NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recently told all coaches �safety comes first.� This is a message critical not just to the NFL coaches but to the entire football community who must unite to reduce the frequency and severity of concussions.
We need a multifaceted solution to address a complex problem � a solution that includes parents, governing bodies, coaches, athletes, medical professionals, and the media. Parents need to be empowered with knowledge on concussions, game rules that prohibit spearing, realize that current football helmet standards are not designed to protect against concussions and accept that when truly innovative helmet technology emerges, they may need to invest for their children .
Governing bodies have enforcement authority, the ability to mandate spearing penalties be called, helmet standards be revised, and concussion management programs be implemented.
Coaches, the core of the football community, have the opportunity to communicate with athletes and parents and develop a culture where concussions are serious injuries and leading with the head in blocking, tackling, and running are unacceptable.
Athletes themselves need to take responsibility for their health and safety and recognize that the brain is special -- no one's brain is tougher than any other.
Medical professionals need to send a clear message that parents, coaches and athletes can understand about the severity and long- term effects of concussions.
Thanks to the NFL for a great start, but it is only a start.
|
