This page aims to provide basic athletic training and sports medicine information as well as links to helpful websites. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact the Athletic Trainer: Megan Waldren at (952) 988-3885 office, (612) 751-4089 cell, or mwaldren@blakeschool.org.
Concussion Information
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website provides credible, unbiased health information:
General concussion information from the CDC
For Parents
For Athletes
For Coaches
Free online concussion course offered by NFHS
ImPACT Baseline Concussion Testing
Bethesda HealthEast Concussion Clinic provides Baseline Concussion Testing for our athletes in grades 7-12. These optional tests are offered on-campus a couple times a year. Should an athlete suffer a concussion, it’s the responsibility of the family to see a doctor of their choosing to decide if the results of the ImPACT test will be utilized in making a decision about returning to competition. Bethesda HealthEast will fax Baseline test results to any health care provider that participates in the athletes care and recovery. The Blake School will provide baseline testing but all post-testing and follow-up treatment after concussion is the responsibility of the family.
More information about ImPACT testing and treatment atBethesda can be found at: http://www.healtheast.org/bethesda/outpatient-services/concussion-clinic.html
The Minnesota State High School League (MSHSL) also has a wealth of information and resources dedicated to educating coaches, athletes and parents on the serious nature of concussions:
Concussion Guidelines (revised 8/12/2010)
Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (revised 8/12/2010)
Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-Pocket Version (revised 8/12/2010)
Concussion Protocol (updated 9/12/2011)
Treatment/Injury Rehab
Generally, the athletic trainer is in the athletic training room on the Hopkins-Blake Campus from 2-4pm for taping, treating, and evaluating injuries. Several therapeutic modalities such as ice, hot packs, electric stimulation and ultrasound (with doctor's or physical therapist's recommendation) as well as some rehabilitation tools are available when space and time allow. Appointments may be necessary as game coverage varies. After 4pm, the athletic trainer will be traveling around to different venues for practice and game coverage.
Return to Play
If an athlete is seen by a physician for an injury or illness that keeps them out of practices/games, they MUST have a signed doctors' note or "Return to Play" form before they are allowed to resume participation. This can be faxed to the athletic office at 952-988-3805 or given directly to the athletic trainer. The form is available on the Athletic Forms page as well as the MSHSL website.
Miscellaneous MSHSL Health/Wellness Documents
Sports Hygiene - Guidelines to Minimize Infectious Diseases
Steroid & Supplement Position Statement