Concussions are not injuries that should be taken lightly. One mild blow to the head and your brain changes. Repeated blows to the head and your life could change forever. After numerous studies and films, the world now understands that concussions can lead to Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE). But, what people still do not know is that girls are more likely to receive concussions than boys, in their respective sports. 

The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons released results in 2017 from a study that found that girls and women are most likely to receive a concussion while participating in the sport of soccer. Volleyball and basketball were close behind on the list. Many concussions go untreated because the athletes do not fully understand the severity of their symptoms, or they mask their pain to stay in the game. But, that’s a social behavior that society has placed on athletes and can provoke endless discussion. 

Abby Wambach is one superstar that has taken an interest in the concussion education and prevention over the last decade. Wambach is a two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and a FIFA World Cup Champion. She is a soccer great.  In 2015, she told the media that she would be donating her brain for concussion research, following in the footsteps of fellow soccer star Brandi Chastain. In January of 2018, she posted a video on her social media accounts in support of the new concussion documentary Shocked. The documentary features NFL veteran Brett Farve,  and discusses the astonishing levels of concussions in girls sports. All who watch it will be SHOCKED.

https://youtu.be/Azx4RGagECU?t=30

Pink Concussions is a site that is dedicated to the education and prevention of head-related injuries in girls and women. The company focuses on head injuries, such as concussions, that come from sports, abuse, accidents, and military service.

Let’s fight to keep girls and women in sports! Educate yourself and the women you love about the symptoms and severity of concussions. As the saying goes, “Check yourself before you wreck yourself!”