[john_faz]

I wanted to get opinions from fellow officials about an issue regarding the concussion policy that happend to my crew this past week. Here's the scenerio:

A trainer from the visiting team turns to my wing and says she thinks #13 of the opposing team may be experiencing signs of a concussion. This is a surprise to us as no official has observed a violent hit or any player with symptoms (ie, dizzy, stumbling, holding their head). My wing informs me of what the trainer said and we move on. I did notice #13 leave the playing field (punt team for the next down) but didn't mention anything to his coach.

What do you think should have happend (if anything)? As a Referee do I need to tell the HC what the opposing trainer told me? Do I need to check out the player myself or take the trainer's word?

There are many things I did not like about the trainer putting her observations on us. As I read the polciy, the officials have to observe the behavior and not some other party. If I removed the player even for one play, then the trainer has affected the game to her team's advantage (perhaps).

I feel like the trainer transfered liability for the player on to us because "she told us" about a posisble concussion. If anything did later happen to the player, she could have said she warned the officials. This set of events did not sit well with me and I'd like your thoughts on how to better handle it next time.

Thanks,

John