Panthers, football moms tackle concussion safety

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Nearly 100 moms filed into the Carolina Panthers team meeting room Wednesday, ahead of a two-hour workshop promoting youth football safety.

Among the key items discussed were proper hydration techniques, concussion treatment and prevention.

The meeting was held in conjunction with USA Football, the national governing body of the sport and the Panthers' youth football development partner.

Panthers head athletic trainer Ryan Vermillion led part of the discussion, warning all concussions are serious, but with proper treatment, can be managed.

“The safety of the game is my biggest priority, and with the safety of the game come injuries,” he said.

Among prevention tips listed were proper technique, well-fitted equipment and knowledge of the rules.

Vermillion added coaching and medical science have both advanced, leading to better treatment among players.
 
Eugenia Washington attended the workshop on behalf of her godson, a high school football athlete in Alabama.
 
"My concern is that his mom and I know the protocols, we know what to look for," she said. "You never know an injury can happen at any particular time."
 
Tuesday, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell named concussion safety and research as his top priority, speaking at the league owner's meeting in Charlotte.
 
"We have to continue to find ways to make our game safer," he said. "We're not done yet."

For more information, visit the Moms Clinic website here.

Cox Media Group