The Northwest Territories Amateur Speed Skating Association is implementing a new online platform that aims to allow athletes and trainers to react quicker and more effectively to incidents that could cause concussions.
Ottawa-based Concussion Awareness, Protocols, and Training, “CAPT” is a digital concussion platform that provides digital access to healthcare services to better streamline the identification of head trauma, communication between athletes and staff, and the eventual safe return to play.
According to Speed Skating NWT, concussions are up more than 200 per cent in Canada, affecting one in ten youth athletes per year. Speed Skating NWT President Alex Clinton says unfortunately, head trauma is a reality in his sport due to the high speeds involved, so it is his belief that athletes must be taken care of in an effective manner.
“The circumstances that lead to concussions can be so varied, it’s key that our coaches, parents, and athletes are aware of the signs and symptoms,” he says. “By adopting CAPT, we’re not only enhancing our concussion management but also leading by example in youth sports safety.”
Parents, athletes, and coaches are encouraged to remember that concussions happen quickly and without warning, so keeping an eye out of symptoms such as headaches, balance disruptions, and memory loss, is a critical part of treating them quickly and effectively.
