Episode: Brain Game

Football is a tough game, but ignoring warning signs of injury—especially concussions—doesn’t make anyone tougher. In this episode, Coach Nick shares his personal experiences with head injuries and reflects on how attitudes toward concussions have changed. He highlights the importance of recognizing both concussion symptoms and mental fatigue, creating a safe environment for players to speak up, and reminding coaches that they also need to model good self-care. Protecting brains—players’ and coaches’ alike—is part of coaching the whole person.

Key Takeaways:

• Toughness is not about playing through dangerous injuries.
• Concussions are more than “getting your bell rung” and must be taken seriously.
• Mental fatigue can mimic concussion symptoms and increase injury risk.
• External factors—heat, school stress, lack of sleep—can drain mental energy.
• Players must feel safe and unashamed to report symptoms or fatigue.
• Coaches also need to model healthy behaviors: proper rest, hydration, and self-care.
• The medical staff has the final say, but coaches create the environment where honesty and safety come first.
• Protecting brains isn’t weakness—it’s the foundation for long-term health and better performance.

If you want to get in touch, find me here:

Email: coachrockell@hotmail.com

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Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/reakt-music/deep-stone

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