Where did time go?

As there wasn't much feedback or comment to my original post, I sort of let this blog simmer. Can't believe that it is coming up on 7 years since I last posted. A lot has happened on the head injury front and some high profile NHL concussions and deaths have catapulted the issue to the front pages. One can only hope that those in charge of organized sports, particularly those involving our kids, will take heed and spearhead a change in the mindset that has kept minor closed head injury a minor concern. There is nothing minor about closed head injury !! I don't want to get into the debate associated with fighting in sports, cheap shots and unsportsmanlike behaviours. We also have to recognize that active kids are going to hurt themselves. The challenge is to provide the necessary support to minimize consequences associated with these activities. Trainers, coaches and most importantly parents have to err on the side of caution and put the well being of the player first. No one would put a player with a broken bone or bleeding wound back in the game. Even though you cannot see a concussion, the mere suspicion of a player suffering a concussion should be enough to rest them until an injury can be ruled out. The greatest danger is not the initial concussion, it is the susceptibility to much more profound consequences if other concussive events occur before the brain has had a chance to heal and recover from the traumatic event. It took a Sidney Crosby to stand up and say that he was not returning until he was 100% sure that he had recovered. One can only hope that even he did not rush his return and that the more recent complaints of headache are not a precursor to a career ending decision.

I recognize that the pressures to perform are a significant factor for many competitive players, their parents and coaches. I just hope that we all can keep perspective on the bigger picture. As parents it is our duty to keep our children's welfare as our top priority. Over this Holiday Season take the opportunity to appreciate all that you have. Enjoy your family time and lets hope that 2012 will be an improvement over 2011.  Happy New Year !