As the high school and college football seasons wind down, the competition seems more intense. The hits in playoffs, conference and title games seem harder as teams' seasons play out and athletes look to the next level of play.
Associated Press sportswriters recently surveyed professional football players about the extent of head injuries -- particularly concussions -- that go unrecognized and unreported.
Thirty of the 160 players surveyed said they had hidden or played down the effects of a concussion. Granted, professional athletes are playing for a paycheck but we have to assume some of that non-reporting is going on at the college or high school level.
Of the 160 players interviewed by the AP, half said they have had a concussion. The NFL said it averages 120 to 130 concussions.
Oklahoma State University quarterback Zac Robinson took a jarring hit last week and some non-medical fans suspected a concussion. The risk of a second one is great and long-term damage is possible. OU has had its share of concussions in players.
Several players interviewed said it's just part of the game. "You get back up, and things are spinning," one said. "But you don't tell anyone."
The NFL is now reminding players of the importance of reporting minor head injuries on themselves and fellow athletes to team medical staff members.
We think college and high school coaches and athletes should get the same admonition. With head injuries, there is so much more at stake than a football game.
