As we prepare for the fall athletic season, Duxbury High School Athletics is committed to providing our student-athletes with a safe and healthy environment. One important component of our concussion-management program is baseline concussion testing through ImPACT.
What Is ImPACT Testing?
ImPACT, which stands for Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing, is a computerized assessment that measures areas such as memory, attention, processing speed, and reaction time.
A baseline test is completed when an athlete is healthy and has not sustained a concussion. If the student-athlete later experiences a suspected concussion, the baseline results can provide our medical professionals with additional information to help evaluate recovery and determine when it is appropriate to return to play.
The baseline test is not a pass/fail test, and it does not prevent concussions. Rather, it establishes an individual starting point that can be useful as part of the overall concussion evaluation process.
Who Needs to Complete Baseline Testing?
For the upcoming fall season, all freshmen and juniors participating in a contact sport are required to complete baseline ImPACT testing.
Students should make every effort to attend the testing session assigned to their team. Testing should be completed when the student is well-rested and feeling healthy. Students must bring their school issued computer.
Fall ImPACT Testing Schedule
Wednesday, August 26
Time | Team | Location |
|---|---|---|
9:30 AM | Field Hockey | Breadboard |
11:30 AM | Boys Soccer | Breadboard |
12:00 PM | Football | Cafeteria |
12:30 PM | Cheerleading | Cafeteria |
2:00 PM | Girls Soccer | Cafeteria |
2:30 PM | Volleyball | Cafeteria |
Why Is This Important?
Concussions can happen in any sport, and symptoms are not always immediately obvious. Having a baseline assessment on file gives our athletic trainer Tim McPhillips and medical professionals another valuable piece of information when evaluating a student-athlete following a potential concussion.
We encourage our student-athletes and families to take this process seriously. Completing a baseline test before the season begins is an important part of being prepared to participate safely.
If you are a freshman or junior participating in one of the contact sports listed above, please plan to attend your scheduled ImPACT testing session on August 26.
Questions about ImPACT testing or concussion management should be directed to the Duxbury High School Athletic Department or Athletic Training Staff.