Dear Mako Sharks Families,

As we continue building a fun, competitive, and safe environment for all our swimmers, we want to share our official Concussion Information & Awareness Protocol (attached as a PDF). This document outlines how we recognize, respond to, and manage any potential head injuries during swim team activities.

Please review the highlights below and reach out with any questions:

• 🔹 What is a Concussion?
  A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump or jolt to the head or body. Swimmers do not have to be "knocked out" to have a concussion.

• 🔹 Recognize the Signs and Symptoms
  Key signs include confusion, dizziness, memory issues, nausea, and personality changes. Both swimmers and parents should be alert to physical and behavioral symptoms.

• 🔹 Be Honest with Coaches and Volunteers
  We encourage swimmers to speak up immediately if they feel “off” or not right—it’s far better to miss a few practices than risk serious injury.

• 🔹 Immediate Action is Required
  Swimmers suspected of a concussion will not return to activity the same day. A licensed medical professional must provide written clearance before they can return.

• 🔹 Returning Too Soon Can Be Dangerous
  Conditions like Second Impact Syndrome (SIS) and Post-Concussion Syndrome (PCS) can have long-term effects. We take every precaution to prevent these.

• 🔹 Return-to-Play Must Be Gradual and Supervised
  Only after being 100% symptom-free and cleared by a professional can a swimmer return to practice. This will be a step-by-step process overseen by coaches.

• 🔹 This is Not Medical Advice
  This document outlines our safety process but does not replace medical guidance. Always consult your healthcare provider for medical decisions.

We’re proud of the care and responsibility our team culture promotes, and we’re committed to protecting your children—on deck and in life.

Thank you for reviewing this information carefully.
Go Mako Sharks! 🦈

Best regards,
Nick Brunelli
Head Coach, Massey Mako Sharks
Swim for Mental Health Foundation