The
National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research suggests the
following four measures to reduce or prevent serious injury
(concussion, traumatic brain injury, spinal paralysis) or death in
football:
-
Continued emphasis by coaches and officals on enforcement of the 1976 rule change which prohibited initial contact with the head in blocking and tackling (spearing).
-
Continued research in helmet safety.
-
Improved medical care of the injured athlete. An emphasis on placing certified athletic trainers in all high schools and colleges. There should be a written emergency plan for serious injuries such as concussions and traumatic brain, neck or spine injuries both at the high school and college levels.
- Improved coaching technique when teaching the fundamentals of proper blocking and tackling (i.e. keeping the head out of blocking and tackling!)
