Grand Cascades Swim Team

By registering, you are agreeing with the following. Failure to comply could result in dismissal from the team.

1. Registration Fee Rise

Registration fees will go up $20 as of April 16th, and up $25 as of 6/2, due to ASA late fees. All ASA fees are subject to a $2 per swimmer service fee. For the sake of simplicity, the ASA fees are essentially $42 per swimmer prior to April 16, $62 per swimmer between April 16 and June 2, and $67 per swimmer after June 2. (NOTE: ASA fees are non-negotiable. ASA is our league program and this is their cost to be part of the league as defined by their structure.)

2. Refund Policy
Registration fees are refundable under the following guidelines:

• Prior to the first day of practice on May 4th: 100% refund
• Prior to May 18th: 50% refund
• After May 18th: No Refund

Note that with any refund, non-resident fees ($50 per swimmer), convenience fees and credit card fees will NOT be reimbursed.

3. Non-Grand Cascades Resident Participation

Like many other communities, Grand Cascades is private and not an “open to the public” facility. We have an out of neighborhood fee of $50* per swimmer for anyone who does not live in the Grand Cascades. *This fee is NON-NEGOTIABLE! Our community does have a CAP to the number of out-of-neighborhood participants.  In additional to the fee, Grand Cascades HOA and the RAPIDS reserve the right to refuse a non-resident or out-of-neighborhood swimmer/family participation at any time.

Non-resident swimmers and their parent(s) or guardian(s) are expected to leave all Grand Cascades’ amenities and facilities immediately after their practices and may not enter the premises more than 30 minutes before their practice times.

4. Parent Volunteers:

Families are required to volunteer at least 12 hours per season with one of the shifts (3-4 hours) being served in a swimmer bullpen. Opportunities are posted on our team calendar and arise daily.

5. Photographs

Photographs, videos, etc. will be taken of all the swimmers throughout the season for our year end slide shows and awards. If you do not want your child to appear in any of the photos/videos published, notify our Team Director.

1. Non-resident swimmers and their parent(s) or guardian(s) are expected to leave all Grand Cascades’ amenities and facilities immediately after their practices and may not enter the premises more than 30 minutes before their practice times (unless as a guest of a Grand Cascades resident).
2. Families of non-resident swimmers are not permitted to use any of the Grand Cascades’ amenities during practice hours (i.e. no pool, Zero Entry pool, playground, nature trail, riverbanks etc.).
3. All pool usage is “AT YOUR OWN RISK”, regardless of the presence, or absence, of a lifeguard.
4. ALL swimmers shall respect the lanes lines. STAY OFF of all lane lines.
5. NO using swim team or Grand Cascades’ equipment (fins, boards, BLOCKS, etc.) without the permission and supervision of a swim team coach.
6. Treat ALL pool furniture with respect. NO flipping, standing, jumping off of pool-side lounges, chairs, or tables.
7. Return all pool furniture to its proper area after use.
8. NO children ten and under are permitted to swim, under any circumstances, without a parent or guardian present. Swimmers ten and under must have a parent or guardian present during their assigned practice hours.
9. Swimmers between the ages of 11 and 17 must have a parent or guardian present to be in the pool, if NO LIFEGUARD is on duty.
10. A parent or guardian must supervise children in the Zero Entry pool area at all times, and all children inside the pool fence at all times.
11. All swim team families are required to familiarize their children with ALL pool rules. Parents are responsible for their children, whether that parent is at the pool or not. Residents are responsible for the actions of their guests.
12. For safety reasons, there can be no running, pushing, jumping in on others, jumping off the lifeguard chair, dunking or holding others under water, or loitering in the bathroom area. NO diving in the shallow area. The coaches, members of the pool committee, and Grand Cascades board have the authority to disallow exuberant play that may interfere with the enjoyment of the pool by others.
13. Any food items taken to the pool or immediate area surrounding the pool are the responsibility of the family and swimmer to clean up and remove once finished. NO glass, bottles, chinaware, nor items in breakable containers are allowed in the pool/picnic area. All trash must be placed in the receptacles provided.
14. GUM IS NOT PERMITTED in the pool area.
15. Smoking and Vaping in the pool area, picnic, play, clubhouse, fitness, nature trail, or parking lot areas is strictly prohibited.
16. No pets (other than “service dogs”), bicycles, skateboards, scooters or other vehicles are allowed in the pool area.
17. No one will be allowed to swim with open or infected wounds, contagious infections, or diseases.
18. Street clothes, cut-offs and other improper or indecent swimwear are not allowed in the pool.
19. The Grand Cascades Board of Directors, Pool Committee, Lifeguards, and Coaches shall have the authority when they deem necessary to expel anyone at any time for misbehavior, use of abusive language, or apparent intoxication during Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team hours.
20. If there are storms in the area, hail, or heavy rain alters the perception of the depth of the water, the lifeguard will direct swimmers to leave the pool until it is safe to resume activities. In the event of thunderstorms, swimmers must exit the water until 30 minutes have passed after the last clap of thunder is heard.

• Set the right example for our children by showing respect and common courtesies at all times to the team members, coaches, Rapids Board, competitors, officials, parents, and for all facilities and other property used during practice or competition.
• Respect the integrity of swim officials by assuming decisions are based on honest, objective evaluations of performance. Only coaches may approach meet officials for clarification of rulings.
• Demonstrate good sportsmanship during all practices, competitions and team activities. Promote good sportsmanship by setting an example and by helping others to do likewise. Rapids members will win gracefully, lose graciously and congratulate their opponents either way. We are known for shaking hands after every race as this embodies who we are as a family team.
• Be an active participant in all fundraising events and other team activities .
• Recognize that Rapids' coaches are or have been swimmers, have been trained, and are up to date on methods based off of USA Swimming so please allow them to coach your child without interference during practices and meets, including not being present on deck during practice or competitions unless you are working at the meet.
• Meet event requests may only happen when you 'declare' for a meet on Team Unify. Request should be written in the 'Notes' section of the declaration. Please know this is a request only and the final placement is up to the coaches and is not subject to debate.
• The coaching mentor and deck coach serve as liaisons for questions and logistics. If you have concerns, you will address it with the coaching mentor or deck coach first and then allow him/her to address the appropriate coach, judge and/or official if need be. Final decisions, however, ultimately rest with the appropriate coach, judge and/or official and are not subject to debate.
• Insist that your child refrain from using alcohol, tobacco, vaping, drugs, other prohibited substances, violence, abusive or foul language, inappropriate sexual conduct, or any other behavior deemed dishonest, discourteous, offensive or disrespectful of others. This includes texting, email, social media, and/or bullying.
• Personally refrain from tobacco, vaping, drugs, other prohibited substances, violence, abusive or foul language, inappropriate sexual conduct, or any other behavior deemed dishonest, discourteous, offensive or disrespectful of others at any swim team event including practices. This includes texting, email, social media and/or bullying.
• Assist the coaches in conducting effective practices and team functions by ensuring swimmers arrive and leave on time.
• Arrive at meets in time for volunteer and/or swimmer check in, stretching and warm-ups.
• Represent the Rapids with excellence, respect, team spirit, good sportsmanship and politeness - if you cannot say something positive refrain from saying anything at all.
• Maintain self-control at all times. Refrain from inappropriate behavior that detracts from a positive image of the team or is detrimental to our performance objectives- this includes e-mails and texts to coaches, board, and committee members. NO direct text, emails, or phone calls with coaches or committee members concerning swim team business. Designated email addresses should be used for swim team concerns.
• Know your role. Swimmers- Swim/ Coaches- Coach/ Officials- Officiate/ Parents- Parent
• Trust and support your swimmers' and coaches' decisions around goal-setting, training commitments, swim event entries, and meet schedules. Do not impose your ambitions on your child.
• Get involved. Find a volunteer position you enjoy!
• Understand that the success of the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team, Inc. is in large part dependent upon parent volunteers. Agree to volunteer for at least twelve (12) hours in volunteer positions through the online volunteer sign up system. Understand that you are obligated to work the volunteer positions for which you register. If substitutions must be made, you will find a replacement for your position.
• Pay your fees on time.
• Know and uphold Grand Cascades Homeowners rules, regulations, management and directives.

• Make every team practice, meet participation and activity an opportunity to learn - and have fun!
• Swimmers are expected to remember that at practice, during swim meets, team activities and in public they are representing the Rapids. They should represent the Rapids with excellence, respect, team spirit, good sportsmanship, and politeness.
• Swimmers are expected at all times to follow the directions of the coaching staff, officials and their bull pen parent. Disrespect or failure to obey instructions will not be tolerated and will result in being removed from practice, the bull pen, the swim meet and/or swim team functions.
• Swimmers are expected to show respect, common courtesies and good sportsmanship at all times to their own team as well as our competitors.
• Swimmers must commit to meets using Team Unify before the meet deadline.
• Swimmers are expected to wear Rapids team caps at all practices and team swimsuits and team caps at all swim meets. This displays team pride and also makes it easier to identify swimmers on the blocks and in the water. We encourage this over their club caps for team unity.
• Swimmers should be an active participant in all team practices, competitions, fundraising events and other team activities.
• Swimmers will refrain from using alcohol, tobacco, drugs, other prohibited substances, violence, abusive or foul language, inappropriate sexual conduct, or any other behavior deemed dishonest, discourteous, offensive or disrespectful of others. This includes text, email, social media and bullying.

The registering athlete participating with Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team, Inc. agrees to abide by the guidelines outlined above in addition to those established by the staff. FAILURE TO ADHERE TO THIS CODE OF CONDUCT MAY RESULT IN DISMISAL FROM THE TEAM.

Those dismissed from the team will not be able to participate in any swim team functions (practices, meets, social events, etc.). Those requesting a re-consideration of dismissal must attend a hearing with the Board of Grand Cascades Swim Team and will not be allowed in team functions until after the conclusion of the hearing with the Board. Those dismissed from the team will NOT receive refunds of team fees.

I/We are the legal guardians of the child(ren) identified below. If only one Guardian has registered, or there is only one legal Guardian for the child(ren), the Guardian who is indicated shall express the authority and acknowledge that this document also applies to any said additional Guardian. For purposes of this Release, Covenant Not to Sue and Indemnification, use of the plural "we", "us", and "children" shall include the singular as applicable. Use of the word "children" shall mean the child(ren) identified below.

We do hereby acknowledge that we have arranged independently for the child(ren) to be members of a swim team which shall practice and compete at the swimming pool within the Grand Cascades development in Forsyth County, Georgia (the "Swimming Pool"). We acknowledge that neither the Grand Cascades Community Association or its officers are sponsoring the swim team or swim team events and that neither of them assume any responsibility or liability for the health and wellbeing of any of the child(ren) using the Swimming Pool for participation in a swim team event. We also understand that it is our personal responsibility to make specific arrangements to adequately supervise the child(ren)'s use of the Swimming Pool while participating in any swim team event from the time the children arrive at the Swimming Pool for such an event until they leave. We also understand that the Swimming Pool and the swim team are private entities and not to be considered "open to the general public". Non-Grand Cascades residents may join the team only through invitation and will be considered invited guests during all practices, meets and team functions. Access to the pool is subject to the rules of the Grand Cascades Community Association.

We recognize the danger inherent with swimming, fully assume the hazard of this risk since the child(ren) want, and we want for the child(ren) to participate on the swim team. We realize that the child(ren) are subject to injury from this activity and no form of preplanning can remove all the danger to which the children may be exposed.

In consideration of the Grand Cascades Community Association allowing the child(ren) to use the Swimming Pool, we, intending to be legally bound, do hereby, for ourselves, the children, and all persons who may claim through the child(ren), including, without limitation, their parents, guardians, and representatives of any capacity, do hereby release, and forever discharge, indemnify and hold harmless any of them and all of the officers, directors, members, shareholders, partners, employees, volunteers, agents, successors and assigns of the Grand Cascades Community Association or the swim team, of and from any and all actions, causes of actions, claims, rights, damages, liability and including those arising of any negligence on injuries, damage to property, and the consequences thereof, resulting from or by reason of any matter, cause of thing whatsoever related to or arising from the child(ren)'s use of the Swimming Pool.

We, on behalf of ourselves, the children and all persons who may claim through the child(ren), in including without limitation, their parents, guardians and representatives of any capacity, do hereby agree

1. Never to Sue, or to cause affiliated entities of any of them, and all of the officers, directors, members, shareholders, partners, employees, volunteers, agents, successors and assigns of the Grand Cascades Community Association or the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team for or on account of any and all actions causes of action, claims, rights, damages, liability and demands of whatever kind and nature, whether known or unknown or whether foreseen or unforeseen, including those arising out of negligence on the part of any of the foregoing entities or person, for bodily and personal injuries, damage to property, and the consequences thereof, arising or allegedly arising from, based upon, connected with, or incidental to the child(ren)'s use of the Swimming Pool.
2. To indemnify and hold harmless any and all of the foregoing entities and persons for any and all actions, causes of action, claims, rights, damages, liability, and demands of whatever kind and nature, including those arising out of any negligence on the party of any of the foregoing entities or persons, which are asserted by or on behalf of the child(ren), directly or indirectly, in breach of the agreement not to sue set forth herein.

We hereby certify that no promise or inducement for this Release, Covenant Not to Sue and Indemnification has been offered except as herein set forth and that this Release, Covenant Not to Sue and Indemnification is executed without reliance upon any statement or representation by the parties released hereunder or their representatives. We represent that we are of legal age, and we are legally competent to execute this Release, Covenant Not to Sue and Indemnification, have carefully read the foregoing, understand its terms, and are satisfied with the consideration received therefore and sign the same as our own free act.

By registering my child(ren) with the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team, I agree to participate (or allow my child(ren) and family members to participate) in the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team, and hereby release Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team, its directors, officers, agents, coaches, and employees from liability for any injury that might occur to myself (or to my child(ren) and family members) while participating in the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team program, including travel to and from training sessions, swim meets or other scheduled team activities.

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the above mentioned organizations and/or individuals, their agents and/or employees, against any and all liability for personal injury, including injuries resulting in death to me, my child(ren) and/or other family members, or damage to my property, the property to my child(ren) and/or other family members, or both, while I (or my child(ren) or family members) participating in the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team program.

I certify that I am the parent or legal guardian for my child(ren). I hereby give my permission for any supervisor, coach or other team administrator associated with the Grand Cascades Rapids Swim Team to seek and give appropriate medical attention for our child(ren) in the event of accident, injury, illness. I will be responsible for any and all costs associated with any necessary medical attention and/or treatment.

In addition to your GC Rapids registration fee, each swimmer must pay $51 for their Atlanta Swim Association (ASA) fee. ASA, or the Atlanta Swim Association, is the parenting organization of all teams swimming in Forsyth County. This fee covers administrative fees of the ASA, insurance fees covered by ASA, and championship fees hosted by the ASA.

1. This Release of Liability and Indemnification Form (this “Agreement”) is valid and will continue in full force and effect while the Participant is participating or otherwise involved in the ASA Programs and will survive thereafter.
2. I consent to the Participant’s participation in the ASA Programs and acknowledge that the Participant and I fully understand that such participation may involve risk of serious injury, illness and/or death, including, without limitation, permanent disability and losses or damages which may result not only from the Participant’s or my own actions, inactions, or negligence, but also from the actions, inactions, or negligence of third parties (including the Releasees), the condition of the facilities, equipment, or areas where any ASA Program is being conducted or held, and/or the rules of play of the ASA Programs. While particular rules, equipment, and personal discipline may reduce or mitigate such risk, such risk to the Participant will always be present. I understand that if I have (or the Participant has) any risk concerns, I should discuss the risks associated with the Participant’s participation with authorized representatives of ASA or SLS before I sign this Agreement and before the Participant begins participating in the ASA Programs.
3. I knowingly and freely assume all risks, both known and unknown, even if arising from the negligence of the Releasees or others and assume full responsibility for the participation of the Participant in the ASA Programs. I acknowledge that participating in the ASA Programs involves strenuous physical activity. All exercises, workouts, training, and activities that are part of the ASA Programs are at the Participant’s sole risk.
4. In consideration of allowing the Participant to participate in the ASA Programs, I hereby release and hold harmless Atlanta Swim Association, LLC (“ASA”) and Summer League Swimming LLC (“SLS”)., and each of their affiliates, officers, directors, managers, members, partners, shareholders, volunteers, employees, agents, counsel, and representatives, and all sponsors, other participants, facility and equipment owners and lessees, advertisers, and other persons involved in the ASA Programs (collectively, the “Releasees”), of and from, and do hereby discharge and waive, any and all claims, actions, demands, causes of action, proceedings, losses, damages, liabilities, costs, and expenses of whatever kind or nature (collectively, “Losses”) that the Participant may have, sustain, or incur with respect to any and all damage, illness, disability, death and/or injury, of any type, arising out of or incident to the Participant’s involvement or participation in the ASA Programs, whether arising from the negligence of the Releasees or otherwise, to the fullest extent permitted by law.
5. I have reviewed and fully understand the concussion information set forth on Exhibit A attached hereto and incorporated herein by this reference.
6. I agree to fully comply with all rules, instructions, procedures, and guidelines of ASA and SLS and all customary terms and conditions for participation in the ASA Programs. I acknowledge that by registering my Participant that I am providing personal information for that Participant to ASA. If I have any concern (or observe any unusual signs or indications) in the readiness of the Participant for participation in the ASA Programs, I will immediately remove the Participant from participation and bring such issue to the attention of the nearest ASA Program official.
7. ASA and SLS have urged the Participant to obtain a physical examination from a licensed health care professional before using any pool or exercise equipment or participating in any ASA Program. I hereby certify that the Participant is in good health and has no physical or mental condition that would prevent participation in the ASA Programs. I agree to use the Participant’s personal medical insurance as a primary medical coverage payment if accident or injury occurs. I consent to emergency medical treatment in the event such care is required.
8. I acknowledge the contagious nature of COVID-19 and voluntarily assume the risk that the Participant, my family (including children), and I may be exposed to or infected by COVID-19 while onsite at any ASA Program or ASA or SLS events, and that such exposure or infection may result in personal injury, illness, permanent disability, and/or death. I understand that the risk of becoming exposed to or infected by COVID-19 at any ASA Program or ASA or SLS events may result from the actions, omissions, or negligence of myself and others, including, but not limited to, the Releasees. I voluntarily agree to assume all of the foregoing risks and accept sole responsibility for any injury, illness, permanent disability, death, damage, and/or Losses that the Participant, my family (including children), or I may experience, sustain, or incur in connection with any attendance at any ASA Program or ASA or SLS events (collectively, “Claims”). I hereby release, covenant not to sue, discharge, and hold harmless the Releasees of and from the Claims, including all Losses of any kind arising out of or relating thereto. I understand and agree that this release includes any Claims based on the actions, omissions, or negligence of any Releasees and whether a COVID-19 infection occurs before, during, or after participation in any ASA Program or ASA or SLS events.
9. I acknowledge and understand that the ASA Championship meet is likely to be webcast and that my child may be part of that webcast.
10. I agree that this Agreement extends to all acts of negligence by the Releasees and is intended to be as broad and inclusive as is permitted by law and that if any portion thereof is held invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, it is agreed that the balance shall, notwithstanding, continue in full legal force and effect and such invalidity, illegality, or unenforceability shall not affect any other provisions of this Agreement. This Agreement shall be construed as if such invalid, illegal, or unenforceable provision had never been contained herein. Upon such determination that any term or other provision is invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the court or other tribunal making such determination is authorized and instructed to modify this Agreement so as to effect the original intent of the parties as closely as possible so that the waivers, releases, assumptions, and other matters contemplated herein are effectuated as originally contemplated to the fullest extent possible.
11. I represent and warrant that: (a) I am the lawful parent or legal guardian of the Participant, (b) I have full authority to consent to the Participant’s participation in the ASA Programs, (c) I am authorized to execute this Agreement on behalf of the Participant, and (d) no other person’s authorization or consent is required to execute this Agreement or grant the rights herein.
12. I further represent and warrant that: (a) I have read this Agreement, (b) I fully understand and agree to all terms and provisions herein, (c) I have had all my questions answered to my satisfaction, (d) I have had an opportunity to review this Agreement with an attorney, (e) I understand that the Participant has the choice of not participating in the ASA Programs, (f) the Participant and I have given up substantial rights by signing this Agreement, and (g) I am signing this Agreement freely and voluntarily without any inducement.
13. Membership in ASA and SLS is a privilege granted by ASA and SLS. It is not a right. ASA and SLS at its sole discretion reserves the right to accept or reject any applicant(s) for membership. Membership in any category may be granted only after an application is submitted and approved. By submitting an application, the applicant agrees to comply with all the provisions of the ASA and SLS Handbook (https://summerleagueswimming.com/sls-handbook/ )
14. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the internal laws of the State of Georgia without giving effect to any choice or conflict of law provision or rule. This Agreement may only be amended, modified or supplemented by an agreement in writing signed by an authorized representative of ASA or SLS. A signed copy of this Agreement delivered by facsimile, e-mail or other means of electronic transmission shall be deemed to have the same legal effect as delivery of an original signed copy of this Agreement.
15. If the swimmer is a minor, I certify that I have the swimmer’s parent's or guardian's consent for the swimmer to become an SLS Member.
16. 16.I accept all terms and conditions for this SLS membership application as laid out by the SLS Handbook and this application.
17. I hereby certify that all information I have provided is accurate, my name (above) is correct, and I am authorized to apply for membership for the youths in this application.
18. I understand that there are no refunds issued for cancellations.

By entering my name above and clicking the box below, I hereby authorize SLS to create the requested individual membership, accept and acknowledge all terms and conditions presented to me during the application process.

NOTE: THIS MUST BE SIGNED BY THE PERSON APPLYING FOR MEMBERSHIP OR A PARENTALLY APPROVED REPRESENTATIVE FOR YOUTH APPLICANTS.

Exhibit “A”

Concussion Awareness

Parent/Participant Concussion Information Sheet: A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Even a “ding,” “getting your bell rung,” or what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious.

WHAT ARE THE SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF CONCUSSION?

Signs and symptoms of a concussion can show up right after the injury or may not appear or be noticed until days or weeks after the injury. If an athlete reports one or more symptoms of a concussion listed below after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, he or she should be kept out of play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussions, says he or she is symptom-free and it is okay to return to play.

Did You Know?

• Most concussions occur without loss of consciousness.
• Athletes who have, at any point in their lives, had a concussion have an increased risk for another concussion.
• Children and teens are more likely to get a concussion and take longer to recover than adults.

SIGNS OBSERVED BY COACHING STAFF SYMPTOMS REPORTED BY ATHLETES

• Appears dazed or stunned
• Headache or “pressure” in head
• Is confused about assignment or position
• Nausea or vomiting
• Forgets an instruction
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Is unsure of game, score, or opponent
• Double or blurry vision
• Moves clumsily
• Sensitivity to light
• Answers questions slowly
• Sensitivity to noise
• Loses consciousness (even briefly)
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
• Concentration or memory problems
• Cannot recall events prior to hit or fall
• Confusion
• Cannot recall events after hit or fall
• Just not “feeling right” or “feeling down”

CONCUSSION DANGER SIGNS
In rare cases, a dangerous blood clot may form on the brain in a person with a concussion and crowd the brain against the skull. An athlete should receive immediate medical attention if after a bump, blow, or jolt to the head or body, he or she exhibits any of the following danger signs:

• One pupil larger than the other
• Is drowsy or cannot be awakened
• A headache that not only does not diminish, but gets worse
• Weakness, numbness, or decreased coordination
• Repeated vomiting or nausea
• Slurred speech
• Convulsions or seizures
• Cannot recognize people or places
• Becomes increasingly confused, restless, or agitated
• Has unusual behavior
• Loses consciousness (even a brief loss of consciousness should be taken seriously)

WHY SHOULD AN ATHLETE REPORT THEIR SYMPTOMS?

If an athlete has a concussion, his or her brain needs time to heal. While an athlete’s brain is still healing, he or she is much more likely to have another concussion. Repeat concussions can increase the time it takes to recover. In rare cases, repeat concussions in young athletes can result in brain swelling or permanent damage to their brain. They can even be fatal.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IF YOU THINK YOUR ATHLETE HAS A CONCUSSION?

If you suspect that an athlete has a concussion, remove the athlete from play and seek medical attention. Do not try to judge the severity of the injury yourself. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until a health care professional, experienced in evaluating for concussion, says he or she is symptom-free and it is okay to return to play. Rest is key to helping an athlete recover from a concussion. Exercising or activities that involve a lot of concentration, such as studying, working on the computer, or playing video games, may cause concussion symptoms to reappear or get worse. After a concussion, returning to sports and school is a gradual process that should be carefully managed and monitored by a health care professional. Remember, concussions affect people differently. While most athletes with a concussion recover quickly and fully, some will have symptoms that last for days, or even weeks. A more serious concussion can last for months or longer. It is better to miss one game than the whole season.

For more information on concussions, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/headsup/index.html.