Whether you’re on the sidelines of a junior rugby match or guiding adults through a casual tennis league, understanding the latest concussion research is more important than ever. Concussions can affect athletes of all ages, at all levels and in a range of sports – and as a coach, you’re often on the front line of recognition and response.
Let’s unpack what the latest science says and what it means for you, whether you’re nurturing young athletes, leading adults, or just always looking to learn more.
Why Are Concussions Such a Big Deal in Sport Right Now?
Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head. Recent research has shown that even minor knocks – especially when repeated – can have long-term impacts on brain health. The concern isn’t just about elite athletes either. The implications affect club – level sport just as much, especially in football, rugby, hockey, and cricket.
According to the CDC, symptoms can be subtle and delayed—ranging from dizziness and confusion to changes in mood or sleep. This makes it critical for coaches to know how to spot, respond to, and reduce the risk of concussions.
What Should Coaches Watch Out For?
Sometimes, players “get up and dust themselves off” after a hit, but that doesn’t mean all is well. Here are common signs a coach of any level should look for:
- Appears dazed, confused, or stunned
- Moves clumsily or has balance issues
- Answers questions slowly
- Can’t recall events before/after the hit
- Headache, nausea, or vomiting
- Mood or behavior changes
Young athletes, in particular, may underreport symptoms because they fear being sidelined. That’s why it’s key for coaches to observe carefully and foster a culture where health comes first.
What Does the Latest Research Say?
Recent studies are shaping how we manage concussions in sport. A landmark 2023 review published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine made several important recommendations for teams and coaches:
- “If in doubt, sit them out.” Even suspected concussions should result in immediate removal from play.
- Graduated return-to-sport protocols should be carefully supervised and tailored to the individual.
- Repetitive head impacts—even in training—should be minimized, especially for young athletes.
The full return-to-play process can now take up to 21 days for children and teens—longer than previously recommended—to allow the brain time to heal.
This was supported by guidance from the Sport and Recreation Alliance.
For volunteer-based, club-level coaches concussion safety starts with education and communication.
- Share concussion awareness materials with players and parents. You can find great resources from Headway.
- Set team rules that normalise reporting injuries.
- Don’t rush players back—even if they beg! Follow medical advice and return-to-play steps.
And when time is tight, don’t forget that even a short safety briefing during warm-up can go a long way in building a safer culture.
How Does This Apply to Coaches of Adults?
When coaching adult athletes, awareness is still essential. Adults might brush off a knock because of social pressure or a “tough it out” mindset. Try incorporating these strategies:
- Start sessions with check-ins—ask how players are feeling and reinforce honest communication.
- Emphasise that long-term health is more important than one match.
- Use mixed-ability drills that minimise unnecessary contact while still building skills.
As participation grows in contact-based sports among adults, keeping the focus on safety can improve both confidence and retention.
And for Other Coaches…
If you love diving into the ‘why’ behind your practice, concussion research offers rich opportunities to personalize your coaching. Strategies like supporting players’ mental health post-concussion or understanding how head injuries affect cognition can help you adapt sessions holistically.
Explore cross-disciplinary training, collaborate with healthcare experts, and don’t hesitate to share findings and strategies with your coaching community. Concussion management is a team effort, and your curiosity can lead the charge.
Final Whistle: Simple Actions You Can Take
No matter what age or sport you coach, these actions help put concussion research into practice:
- Stay informed: Revisit current guidelines annually.
- Educate your team: Use visuals, brief talks, or parent meetings.
- Promote a culture of care: Celebrate honesty and long-term thinking.
- Connect with medical professionals: Build relationships for support when incidents occur.
By staying curious, compassionate, and cautious, you can help keep sport not only fun and inclusive—but truly safe for everyone involved.
Want to learn more about building a safer and more supportive coaching environment? Check out this comprehensive concussion awareness tool from Coach.ca.
