The start of the school year is an exciting time for Hoosier parents, teachers and students as summer break draws to a close. Some kids are heading off to school for the first time, while the first day of school is routine for others.
District 48 State Senator Mark Messmer of Jasper says not only is classroom learning beginning, but many student athletes are returning to practice. This past session lawmakers passed measures to help keep our student athletes safe.
Sports-related concussions have become more prevalent in today’s society. The Sports Concussion Institute estimates that more than half of high school athletes have sustained a concussion, and up to 10 percent of athletes will experience a concussion during any given season.
Typical symptoms of a concussion are headaches and dizziness, and the majority of concussions occur during games instead of practices.
Messmer notes that many times, athletes will not acknowledge that they’ve had a concussion and try to play even though they may need medical attention.
Effective concussion management begins before the injury occurs with proper education of our coaches and athletes. With this law, our coaches will be more informed and better prepared to keep our athletes safe.
Messmer’s office can be reached with questions and concerns by email at Senator.Messmer@iga.in.gov or by phone at 800-382-9467.
