USA Synchro, the American governing body for synchronized swimming, has announced a partnership with TeachAids with the shared goal of helping keep athletes safe.
This partnership will use TeachAids’ CrashCourse concussion education, which “integrates state-of-the-art technology and interactive features to appeal specifically to youth growing up in the digital native generation.”
“While educating youth athletes, it is so important to speak to young people in a way that resonates with them,” said Geoffrey Abrams, Director of Sports Medicine at Stanford University. “CrashCourse is a truly revolutionary tool because it is provides the latest medical knowledge from student athletes who are admired and trusted.”
By and large, most of the attention on the concussion issue is centered on football and other contact sports. Still, in just about every sport concussions are a risk. In a way, athletes in non-contact sports are even more vulnerable to undiagnosed concussions, as something that causes a concussion wouldn’t be as visible to the naked eye like a big hit in football is.
CrashCourse will be showcased at every major American synchronized swimming competition. That will start with the largest international competition in the world that they host in New York. Athletes who complete the concussion education awareness program will be offered a Certificate of Completion. Coaches will also use the concussion education system.
This partnership has caught the eye of some high profile athletes. Included among them is Natalie Coughlin, a 12-time Olympic medalist in swimming.
“As a member of the aquatic community, as a swimmer, I have seen how important it has been to respond to injuries that may not be as visible to others,” Coughlin said. “I commend US Synchro for taking a leadership role in promoting concussion safety amongst youth athletes.”