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Cheltenham Little League

Introduction

Cheltenham Little League (CLL) is committed to player safety. A concussion is a brain injury and must be treated seriously. This pages outlines our concussion recognition, removal-from-play, and return-to-play procedures for all players, coaches, volunteers, and families.

 

When in doubt, sit them out. Players will not return to play the same day if a concussion is suspected.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head (or body) that can affect how the brain works. Symptoms may appear immediately or develop hours later.

Common Signs and Symptoms

What Coaches/Parents May Observe

  • Appears dazed or stunned

  • Confusion about assignment or position

  • Forgets plays or unsure of score/opponent

  • Moves clumsily or has balance problems

  • Answers questions slowly

  • Behavior or personality Changes

  • Loss of consciousness (even briefly)

 

What a Player May Report

  • Headache or pressure in head

  • Nausea or vomiting

  • Dizziness or balance problems

  • Blurred or double vision

  • Sensitivity to light or noise

  • Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy

  • Trouble concentrating or remembering

  • Feeling that something isn't right

Immediate Action: Removal From Play

  • Stop participation immediately

  • The player is removed from play and will not return the same day

  • A parent or guardian is notified immediately

  • The incident is documented and reported to the Safety Officer

Emergency Warning Signs (Call 911)

  • Worsening headache or repeated vomiting

  • Seizure or convulsions

  • Increasing confusion, agitation, or unusual behavior

  • One pupil larger than the other

  • Slurred speech, weakness, numbness, or poor coordination

  • Cannot be awakened or condition worsens

Medical Evaluation Requirement

A player with a suspected concussion must be evaluated by an appropriate healthcare professional. Cheltenham Little League requires written clearance before the player can begin any return-to-play progression. Families should follow medical guidance regarding rest, school accommodations, and activity restrictions.

Return-To-Play Policy

A player may return to baseball or softball activities only after symptoms have resolved, written medical clearance has been provided, and the league has confirmed approval to begin a gradual return-to-play progression.

Gradual Return-to-Play Progression

  • Light aerobic activity

  • Sport-specific activity such as light throwing or drills (no contact)

  • Non-contact training drills with increased intensity

  • Full practice participation if approved

  • Return to game play

 

If symptoms return at any stage, the player must stop activity and only resume after being symptom-free and medically cleared.


Parent/Guardian Responsibilities

  • Monitor the player at home after the injury

  • Follow medical recommendations

  • Provide required medical documentation to the league

  • Report any returning or new symptoms to the coach and Safety Officer

 

Submit medical clearance and return-to-play documentation to the Cheltenham Little League Safety Officer. Email: [email protected]

Coach and Volunteer Responsibilities

  • Remove a player immediately when a concussion is suspected

  • Never allow same-day return to play

  • Notify the parent/guardian and Safety Officer

  • Document the injury or incident as required by the league

  • Support recommended rest and recovery guidance

Questions?

For questions regarding this protocol or a player's return-to-play status, please contact the Cheltenham Little League Safety Officer.

Cheltenham Little League

PO BOX 91 
Cheltenham, Pennsylvania 19012
Email : [email protected]
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