Teen baseball player getting hit by baseball during a game.
Although baseball is a reasonably safe sport compared to some, it is a contact sport, and serious injuries are possible. As coaches, we’re responsible to be knowledgable about possible injuries.
I have had the experience of one of my players getting hit on the head with a ball. He and his throwing partner just weren’t paying attention. It can happen to any of us.
If you coach for a league, they probably already require you to get certified for concussions. However, even if your league does not require it, or if you’re just coaching neighborhood kids, I highly recommend taking a little time to be prepared. You might want to recommend concussion training to any assistant coaches you work with, as well.
Feel free to do your own research and find a good course, or use the one that your league recommends. Here is one from the CDC which is free, and takes only 30 minutes to complete.
This course will help you:
- Understand a concussion and the potential consequences of this injury,
- Recognize concussion signs and symptoms and how to respond,
- Learn about steps for returning to activity (play and school) after a concussion, and
- Focus on prevention and preparedness to help keep athletes safe season-to-season.
So, let’s be smart and take a little time to learn information that may save a life.