TOWSON, Md. —
A 15-year-old North East High School football player is recovering at home after being airlifted from Calvert Hall College High School's football field Thursday evening.
Baltimore County Fire Department crews were called around 5:40 p.m. after a head-to-head collision during a freshman/sophomore game against North East High School.
The medical response was initiated out of an abundance of caution due to the severity of the head injury. The student-athlete was flown to Shock Trauma and later diagnosed with a concussion.
The 15-year-old athlete's mother told WBAL-TV 11 News on Friday that he suffered a concussion from a head-on-head hit and is doing well while recovering at home.
"He's a tough kid and can't keep him down," the mother told WBAL-TV 11 News.
Cecil County Public Schools sent a statement to WBAL-TV 11 News on Friday, saying, in part, that "Superintendent Jeffrey Lawson spoke directly with the student-athlete's family to offer support on behalf of the school administration and athletic department.
"Following a comprehensive medical evaluation at the hospital, the player was diagnosed with a concussion. He was evaluated, treated and subsequently released to return home with his family. The student will follow standard medical protocols and return-to-play guidelines prior to resuming any athletic activities.
"School officials express their sincere appreciation to the Baltimore County emergency responders, medical personnel and the host team at Calvert Hall for their swift response, professionalism and care on the field."
"The Calvert Hall community expresses its concern and prayers for the student-athlete, his family, and the North East community," Hladky said in a statement sent to WBAL-TV 11 News.
Nicholas Wunder, a physician assistant at Patient First, said concussions are common during sports seasons.
"We see concussions on a regular basis, on a daily basis really, especially when sports are full blown in season," Wunder said.
He described the situation as concerning for everyone involved.
"With this type of situation, it's kind of nerve-wracking for everyone involved. And when you hear the situation, you just care about the safety of the child, because that's what matters," Wunder said.
Wunder explained that concussion symptoms can include headaches, light or sound sensitivity, nausea, and confusion. He emphasized the importance of athletes stopping play, informing a coach, and seeking medical attention if symptoms arise.
He also advised against returning to play until cleared by a doctor to avoid long-term complications.
"Even those 24-48 hours, not being on your cell phones and computers and stuff, being in a dark room, taking it easy, not overdoing things and letting that brain heal itself," Wunder said.
The Maryland Athletic Trainers' Association has a website dedicated to resources for parents and coaches designed to help them understand and prevent the risk of injuries in play.
For more information, visit their website.