Allegheney Lacrosse Officials Association

  • Player safety is a top priority in lacrosse officiating. Understanding and enforcing proper concussion protocols and injury management procedures is crucial to protecting athletes and maintaining the integrity of the game. Below is a guide on handling suspected concussions, injuries, and return-to-play procedures.

    Recognizing a Possible Concussion

    A concussion is a brain injury caused by a direct or indirect impact to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the brain. Officials play a key role in identifying possible concussions and ensuring players receive proper medical attention.

    Common Signs & Symptoms

    A player suspected of having a concussion may show:

    • Physical Symptoms: Dizziness, headache, nausea, blurred vision, sensitivity to light/noise.
    • Cognitive Symptoms: Confusion, difficulty concentrating, memory problems.
    • Emotional Symptoms: Mood swings, irritability, anxiety.
    • Motor Symptoms: Loss of balance, clumsiness, slow reaction time.

    When to Remove a Player

    Officials do not diagnose concussions but must recognize potential signs and follow protocols:

    • If a player exhibits any concussion symptoms after a hit or fall, they must be removed immediately.
    • The player may not return to play unless cleared by a medical professional.
    • Inform the coach and/or athletic trainer of the situation.

    “When in doubt, sit them out.”

    Handling In-Game Injuries

    Stopping Play for an Injured Player

    • If a player is seriously injured, stop play immediately and signal for medical assistance.
    • If the injury is not serious, wait for a natural stoppage in play before intervening.
    • Keep players away from the injured athlete to allow medical staff space to assess the situation.

    Return-to-Play Guidelines

    • A player with a minor injury (e.g., cramping, minor bleeding) may return after proper treatment.
    • A player with a suspected concussion, head injury, or serious condition cannot return until medically cleared.

    Concussion & Return-to-Play Policies

    NFHS & PIAA Policies

    • Any player suspected of a concussion must be removed from the game and evaluated.
    • The player cannot return the same day unless cleared by a licensed medical professional.
    • The school and coaching staff are responsible for following up on medical clearance.
    • If a medical professional is not present, the player cannot return that day under any circumstances.

    Official’s Role in Injury Management

    • Recognize possible concussions or serious injuries.
    • Stop play if necessary to allow medical personnel to assess.
    • Communicate with coaches and trainers about injured players.
    • Ensure proper substitution occurs before restarting play.
    • Report serious injuries or incidents per league requirements.

    Reporting Serious Injuries

    For major injuries, including suspected concussions, broken bones, or severe medical incidents:

    1. Notify the assignor as soon as possible after the game.
    2. File an incident report.
    3. Provide clear and factual details of what occurred.

    By following these concussion and injury management protocols, officials help protect the safety and well-being of players while ensuring that the game is conducted according to the highest standards of sportsmanship and care.