Information on Compliance with "The Lystedt Law" HB 1824

Policies for the Management of Concussion (Traumatic Brain Injury) in Youth Soccer

On May 14, 2009 the Governor of Washington, Christine Gregoire, signed House Bill 1824, also known as t"The Zackery Lystedt Law." Effective July 26, 2009, the Lystedt Law directly affects youth sports and Traumatic Brain Injuries and requires that:

1) An informed consent must be signed annually by parents and youth athletes acknowledging the risk of head injury prior to practice or competition

2) A youth athlete who is suspected of sustaining a concussion must be removed from play - "when in doubt, sit them out"

3) A youth athlete who has been removed from play must receive written clearance from a licensed health care provider prior to returning to play

Washington Youth Soccer has developed the guidelines, pertinent information and forms to inform and educate coaches, youth athletes, and their parent(s)/guardian(s) of the nature and risk of concussion including continuing to play after concussion or head injury. Each member association and club will work in concert with Washington Youth Soccer to disseminate these materials and ensure compliance with the new law.

To read the full law, Click Here.

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Concussion FAQ

What is a concussion?

A concussion is a brain injury that:

• Is caused by a bump or blow to the head
• Can change the way your brain normally works
• Can occur during practices or games in any sport
• Can happen even if you haven't been knocked out
• Can be serious even if you've just been "dinged"

What are the symptoms of a concussion?

• Headache or "pressure" in head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Double or blurry vision
• Bothered by light
• Bothered by noise
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Difficulty paying attention
• Memory problems
• Confusion
• Does not "feel right"

What to do if you or someone you know thinks they have a concussion:

• Tell your coaches and your parents. Never ignore a bump or blow to the head even if you feel fine. Also, tell your coach if one of your teammates might have a concussion.
• Get a medical checkup. A doctor or health care professional can tell you if you have a concussion and when you are OK to return to play.
• Give yourself time to get better. If you have had a concussion, your brain needs time to heal. While your brain is still healing, you are much more likely to have a second concussion. Second or later concussions can cause damage to your brain. It is important to rest until you get approval from a doctor or health care professional to return to play.