A concussion is a brain injury caused by a bump or blow to the head that can change the way your brain normally works. Even what seems to be a mild bump or blow to the head can be serious. As many as 3.8 million sports- and recreation-related concussions are estimated to occur in the United States each year.

To help ensure the health and safety of young athletes, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, developed the “Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports” initiative to offer information about concussions—a type of traumatic brain injury—to coaches, parents, and athletes involved in youth sports. The “Heads Up” initiative provides important information on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion.

CDC wants to equip coaches, parents, and young athletes across the country with the "Heads Up: Concussion in Youth Sports” tool kit, which contains:

• a fact sheet for coaches on concussion;
• a fact sheet for athletes on concussion;
• a fact sheet for parents on concussion;
• a clipboard with concussion facts for coaches;
• a magnet with concussion facts for coaches and parents;
• a poster with concussion facts for coaches and sports administrators; and
• a quiz for coaches, athletes, and parents to test their concussion knowledge.

Little League Baseball, with the generous help and support of Musco Lighting, has been producing the ASAP newsletter since 1998.   Leagues can find a variety of safety tips and information in the ASAP News.

To view all the past issues of ASAP News, click here.

January/February 2008: 

• Checking backgrounds
• Commotio Cordis
• Concussions

March 2008: 

• First Aid at the Field
• Recognizing Facility Problems
• Study Finds Non-Wood Bats as Safe as Wood
• Tips to Prevent Ball Injuries

April 2008: 

• Coaches Resource Center
• Background Checks
• Financial Safety
• First Aid Kits for Teams

May/June 2008: 

• ASAP Numbers Up
• Weather, It's an Emergency
• Keep Players Safe
• Protect from Heat Illness
• Upgrade Concession Safety

July 2008: 

• Proper Training for Safety
• Optional Equipment Prevents Injuries
• Bicycle Safety
• Background Checks

September 2008: 

• 2008 ASAP Winners
• Which leagues across the country have ASAP plans