Did you know that the average student athlete’s schedule consists of six hours of school, two-to-three hours of sports practice, and two or more hours of homework? Did you know that many student athletes take honors and AP classes while participating in sports on outside teams as well? This can add another two-to-three hours of practice to that already rigorous schedule. Did you know that some student-athletes also play instruments and participate in music-related clubs, adding to practice time both in and out of school? Did you know that severe sleep deprivation is typical of a student-athlete? For many of us, these facts are common knowledge. Speaking as a student-athlete myself, I felt it necessary to make these facts clear before continuing on.

With new studies showing up to 3,800,000 concussions per year, it is becoming more and more necessary for athletes to be aware of the growing problem.  High school athletes in particular are at risk for...