What is a Concussion?
A concussion is a form of traumatic brain injury that happens when a forceful impact or sudden motion causes the head and brain to move quickly in different directions. This rapid movement can make the brain shift, twist, or collide with the inside of the skull, which may disrupt normal brain function and can lead to temporary chemical changes or minor injury to brain cells.
What is Sudden Cardiac Arrest?
Sudden cardiac arrest, often called SCA, occurs when the heart abruptly stops functioning without warning. When the heart ceases to pump, blood can no longer reach the brain or other essential organs. Among young athletes, SCA is the leading cause of death during physical activity and is most commonly linked to an underlying heart condition.
What is Heat Illness?
Heat illness refers to a range of conditions that develop when the body becomes overwhelmed by heat stress. This stress can come from external factors—like high temperatures and humidity—or from the body generating more heat than it can release.
Four common types of heat‑related conditions include:
Importance to Proper Equipment Fitting
Properly fitting equipment goes beyond just making sure it feels right—it plays a key role in lowering the chances of concussions and other injuries. Whether you’re a coach, parent, or equipment manager, it’s essential to understand how to correctly fit helmets and pads before any athlete begins practice or competition.