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The Children’s National SCORE program partners with coaches across the Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia region – and across the country. We strive to support them in recognizing and responding to concussions as well as fostering brain health more broadly in their players. If you are interested in learning about brain health education or further consultation please contact us.

All concussions are serious and most occur without loss of consciousness. Recognizing and properly responding to concussions when they first occur can help prevent further injury. Remember the mantra “when in doubt, sit them out,” when caring for an athlete with a suspected concussion.

Athletic organizations, trainers and coaches need to recognize and respond to a suspected concussion, and then facilitate management if one of their athletes is injured. It is important that all adults in a young athlete’s life support full recovery.

Concussion Basics

What is the definition of full recovery from a concussion?

What are the risks of incomplete recovery?

How should an athlete return to play after a concussion?

Frequently Asked Questions for Coaches

As a coach, what is important for me to know about the treatment and management of a concussion?

How do I know if an athlete on my team had a concussion?

What is a Gradual Return to Play program?

What should I be doing before our season starts to protect my athletes?

What should I tell the parents of my athletes who are worried about concussions?

Where can I get more information?

Resources for Athletic Organizations and Coaches