Atlantic Technological University is hosting a conference on concussions in sport at its Galway campus next week.
The free ‘Heads Together’ conference is meant for coaches, trainers, athletes, sports organisations and members of the public interested in learning more about concussion injuries.
It will feature talks on the latest research into concussion education and management, tackling the best practice in diagnosing and treating injuries.
Talks will be delivered by leading experts in concussion including researchers from the Concussion Research centre at ATU, Galway.
Dr Lisa Ryan, Head of the ATU Sport, Exercise and Nutrition Dept will explain the ethos of the SCAT project and launch the project’s final educational outputs.
Lisbeth Lund Pedersen, Physiotherapist, Researcher at SDU, Denmark, will introduce the SCAT project’s ‘Heads Up’ free online module on concussion awareness, treatment, and management.
Other speakers will include Dr Enda Devitt, Galway GAA and Connacht Rugby Doctor, and Dr Sean Moffit, Mayo GAA Medical Doctor, who will discuss the lessons they have learned in sport.
Dr Lisa Ryan said, “Our previous Concussion in Sport Conference was an overwhelming success, helping to provide support and information for coaches, parents and athletes on the signs and symptoms of concussion and the appropriate actions for return to play.”
She added that the SCAT Erasmus+ project aims to, “help educate individuals regarding concussions in sport to enhance their awareness of the prevalence and how to manage concussions safely”.
Delegates will hear about emerging developments in concussion education and best practice diagnosis and management measures for amateur and club sports.
New findings on concussion consideration for women in sports will also be presented.
Coaches and athletes who have encountered concussions will share their experiences during the open panel discussion chaired by guest MC Ollie Turner, Head of Sports at Galway Bay FM.
The conference is the last in a series of events delivered through the Erasmus+ funded “Get your head in the game – SCAT” project led by ATU Galway and Donegal, tackling concussions in sports.
