Concussion Q&A: Coach Erin Harkleroad

Q: What is the importance of students recognizing concussions and reporting them?
A: Well, they can be season-ending for an athlete, or in the worst case, life-ending. If they’re not taken care of, they can lead to serious results.

Q: What can students do to minimize concussions?
A: Students can come to their trainers immediately and report any symptoms they have.

Q: Since working here have concussions been a rising issue, a decreasing issue, or has the rate stayed consistent?
A: Concussions sensitivity has gone way up since the state has become stricter on the regulations. Any head issues or soreness causes athletes to sit out.

Q: Do you see stricter rules as a good thing or bad thing when it comes to concussions and high school athletes?
A: I see it as both. For one, it makes sure students have the help they need in case they actually do have a concussion. But on the other hand, it causes us to pull them out of anything for any sort of head injury, even if it’s not a concussion.

Q: What can students do at practice to work on safety?
A: They can do strength training, especially for their necks. They can also learn form properly. For example, soccer players can practice heading the ball properly, or football players could practice tackling properly.