Concussion & Sudden Cardiac Arrest
In compliance with California laws AB-2007 and AB-379, MCSFC implements strict protocols for athlete removal, evaluation, and return to play following concussions or cardiac concerns, ensuring player safety through licensed healthcare evaluations, parent notifications, and mandatory staff training.
MCSFC Athlete Removal & Return to Play Protocol
- An MCSFC player who is suspected of sustaining a concussion or other head injury, or who has passed out or fainted, in an athletic activity shall be immediately removed from the athletic activity for the remainder of the day, and shall not be permitted to return to any athletic activity until the athlete is evaluated by a licensed healthcare provider. The athlete shall not be permitted to return to athletic activity until the athlete receives written clearance to return to athletic activity from a licensed healthcare provider.
- If the licensed healthcare provider determines that the athlete sustained a concussion or other head injury, the athlete shall also complete a graduated return-to-play protocol of no less than seven days in duration under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.
- If the licensed healthcare provider suspects that the athlete has a cardiac condition that puts the athlete at risk for sudden cardiac arrest or other heart-related issues, the athlete shall remain under the care of the licensed healthcare provider to pursue follow-up testing until the athlete is cleared to play.
- If an athlete who is 17 years of age or younger has been removed from athletic activity due to a suspected concussion or due to fainting or another suspected cardiac condition, the youth sports organization shall notify a parent or guardian of that athlete of the time and date of the injury, the symptoms observed, and any treatment provided to that athlete for the injury.
Staff Training Policy
On a yearly basis, MCSFC shall offer concussion and head injury education to each coach, administrator, and referee, umpire, or other game official of the youth sports organization.
Additional Resources
Important Fact Sheets:
US Soccer Concussion – Fact Sheet For Players
US Soccer Concussion – Fact Sheet For Coaches
US Soccer Concussion – Fact Sheet For Parents
Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation – Fact Sheet For Parents And Student Athletes
Additional Resources:
Eric Paredes Save A Life Foundation
Cardiac Arrest Action Plan
Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Toolkit
Sudden Cardiac Arrest Prevention Training
US Soccer Recognize to Recover Homepage – Head and Brain Conditions
US Soccer Recognize to Recover Homepage – Cardiac Conditions
Center for Disease Control and Prevention: Heads Up Concussions in Youth Sport
Concussion Legacy Foundation Resources
Understanding Sudden Cardiac Arrest