What should I do about a possible concussion or lightning?
Guideline- USA
- USA Softball
- Junior Olympic Fast Pitch
- 14U
- Girls
- Championship play
- 2026 rules
- Coaches
USA Softball's Safety Awareness Guide (in the rule book) follows CDC HEADS UP and recommends:
Possible concussion (a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body, then any change in behavior, thinking or physical functioning):
- Remove the player from play. When in doubt, sit them out.
- Have a health care professional experienced in evaluating concussion assess the player. Don't judge severity yourself.
- Tell the parents or guardians and give them the CDC concussion fact sheet.
- Keep the player out for the rest of that day, and until a health care professional says they're symptom-free and can return.
Get immediate medical help for danger signs such as one pupil larger than the other, a worsening headache, repeated vomiting, slurred speech, seizures or any loss of consciousness. State laws on concussion may add requirements.
Lightning: if a thunderstorm looks imminent, suspend play and get everyone to a substantial building or a closed vehicle. Dugouts, open shelters, metal bleachers and fences are not safe shelter. Wait at least 30 minutes after the last lightning or thunder, and restart the 30 minutes each time it happens again (unless an advanced lightning detection system is in use).
Added 21 Oct 2026