Policies for the management of concussion and head injury in youth soccer
On May 14, 2009 the Governor of Washington, Christine Gregoire, signed House Bill 1824, also known as the Zackery Lystedt Law. Effective July 26, 2009, the Lystedt Law directly affects youth sports and head injury policies. The new law requires that:
1) An informed consent must be signed annually by parents and youth athletes acknowledging the risk of head injury prior to practice or competition
2) A youth athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or head injury must be removed from play – “when in doubt, sit them out”
3) A youth athlete who has been removed from play must receive written clearance from a licensed health care provider prior to returning to play
Washington Youth Soccer has developed the guidelines, pertinent information and forms to inform and educate coaches, youth athletes, and their parent(s)/guardian(s) of the nature and risk of concussion and head injury including continuing to play after concussion or head injury. Each member association and club will work in concert with Washington Youth Soccer to disseminate these materials and ensure compliance with the new law.
Click to visit the Washington Youth Soccer Concussion Resource Page
