Concussion Reporting and Safeguarding Policy Development in British American Football: An Essential Agenda

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine concussion reporting and safeguarding policy in British American Football (BAF). Data were collected via an online survey tool. The data presented are part of a broader study that examined injury profiles, concussion reporting behaviors, and medical provision in BAF. Concussion-like symptoms were found in over half (58.8%) of the participants. Of those, 36.4% reported they had previously been formally diagnosed with a concussion while playing BAF. Just under half of the participants (44.7%) had suspected they had had a concussion, although it was not formally diagnosed, and 23.5% of the participants had previously hidden concussion symptoms. Fifty-eight percent of the teams reported they did not have a regular game-day medic, with a range of hired medical personnel who attended the games. Prominent barriers to hiring a medic included budget, institutional support shortfall, and lack of medic reliability and game knowledge. BAF is a developing sport with a clear vision for growth of participation. Yet, the current concussion and medical provision policies do not address the sport's welfare needs. Through discussion of these policies in the context of this study's findings, we highlight vital areas of concern in policy and practice that the British American Football Association needs to address in their medical and concussion policies.

A national survey of clubs medical provision and facilities in BUCS American Football 2019–2020

“…This study expands upon prior study findings by Travis et al [19] which highlighted players tendency to under-report injury, a lack of consistent medical provision and flaws within concussion safeguarding policy in BAF by further evaluating medical provision, facility and equipment access in the game.…”

Knowledge of, and Attitudes Toward, Concussion in Japanese Male Collegiate Athletes

“…Therefore, the focus should also be on the environment surrounding the athletes in Japan. Travis et al (2021) pointed out that in British American football, medical support for players is often insufficient, influencing the diagnosis and management of players' return from injury. This situation is probably the same in amateur and sports in Japan.…”