Wilmington to Educate Athletes on Dangers of Concussions

On August 4, Wilmington Pop Warner, together with The Sports Legacy Institute, will be hosting a concussion seminar for coaches, parents and athletes. Founded in 2007 by Christopher Nowinski and Dr. Robert Cantu, SLI’s mission statement “is to advance the study, treatment and prevention of the effects of brain trauma in athletes and other at-risk groups.”

Although the seminar is being presented by the Pop Warner Program, attendance will be open to anyone involved in local sports.

“We are encouraging all the parents and coaches in town to attend and learn more about concussions from an expert,” said Pop Warner President Deb Smith.

Longtime Wilmington Firefighter, Dan Stewart, has worked and trained with Christopher Nowinski, and will be the evenings presenter.  The seminar, which will be geared towards a “mixed audience," will focus on the basics of concussions, including recognition, response and diagnosis.

Wilmington Pop Warner has recently purchased 80 new helmets which, along with education and training, reflect their commitment to the safety of Wilmington’s athletes. 

“We planned to seminar to coincide with the purchase of eighty Schutt DNA Pro plus Elite helmets,” said Smith, “because we want our players and their families to have every advantage possible.”

The seminar will be a requirement for all WPW players and at least one parent or guardian to attend.

“It is important to us that all of our Pop Warner families have as much information as possible,” Smith said.

For details about the seminar or for more information about the upcoming football season you can visit Wilmington Pop Warner’s website.