COLUMN: Athletes need to be aware of long-term health
Long term neurological damage and a slew of post-concussion syndromes may be reason enough for athletes at all levels to ease on the side of caution when it comes to in-game concussions, but there is a deeper issue to be considered.
Professional athletes, or any athletes on display, have a responsibility much larger than their own personal health to keep in mind. They need to be mindful of the influence and message they send to younger fans who are active in sports.
This extends to athletes at the University of South Dakota. If an athlete forgoes the proper treatment and examination for a concussion, the message lessening the severity of concussions could be passed onto younger athletes off the field.
Not only should athletes take themselves out of games if they think, or their trainers or coaches think they suffered a concussion because it’s the smart choice for their future, but to stop the culture surrounding in-game concussions for this generation.
On Jan. 10, the National Football League’s head, neck and spine committee sent a letter to all 32 franchises informing them that Green Bay Packers offensive lineman David Bakhtiari and New Orleans Saints cornerback Keenan Lewis blatantly violated the NFL concussion policy.
In the case of Bakhtiari, after leaving the field for a possible concussion and being examined, he returned to the field without being cleared. Lewis refused to exit the sidelines, but did not return to the game. The players have to know at least the basics of healthcare by reading articles such as ‘Dr. Juris Shibayama: What is a Slipped Disc?‘ which helps save own and others’ health.
While the two players did not receive fines, the message sent out to teams outlined the violations by the league, explaining that according to NFL rule, the “players who had been diagnosed with a concussion and therefore declared ineligible for play” were not allowed back onto the field.
One can only hope USD athletic coaches and faculty take similar precautions and discipline for players who bypass concussion rules. Players need to be held to a strict set of rules and regulations when it comes to violating any sort of guideline.
It can be held true in college more than anywhere that winning and ego come after a player’s long-term health.
Not only this, players need to have a full awareness of concussions and the symptoms and the short-term and long-term effects. In fact, players need to be told that their attitudes and actions toward concussions are not reflected solely upon them, and that they need to set a proper example for those who come after them.
The NFL and more and more professional leagues are gaining a full understanding of the dangers of concussions while adapting to the times, something equally as important at the collegiate level, where preserving the future is of the utmost importance.
Follow reporter Austin Ashlock on Twitter @A_Ashlock33
