Young athletes more aware of risks with concussions

Conway, Arkansas – During this season, our thoughts turn to cuisine and the excitement of the game. While we relish the excitement of touchdowns and intense plays from our living rooms, it’s crucial to recognize that the pursuit of glory can have its drawbacks for the athletes involved.

Football is a sport that can be intense, demanding, and yet, it can also provide some of the most enjoyable moments of your life. UCA Guard Caleb Shiron embodies the ideal teammate you desire to have alongside you. The Bears have secured the services of a 6’5, 300-pound guard from Cabot.

“Receiving that call from Coach Boykin over the Summer to inform me about the offer was absolutely incredible,” Caleb expressed.

The latest Bear was poised to elevate his game to the division one level when an unexpected moment during a standard practice altered everything.

I was uncertain about the situation, so I glanced up. He recounted, “A trainer came over and pulled me off the field; it was my first concussion ever.”

Caleb completed the necessary concussion protocol before making his return to practice a few weeks later, only to experience another concussion once again.

“It was quite a revelation, like wow, this is actually happening once more,” he remembered.
Following his second concussion, Caleb adhered to a required 18-day protocol until he was completely symptom-free.

“I likely didn’t experience any symptoms for the past 7 or 8 days.” The UCA training staff is excellent and extremely careful,” he stated.

After finally being cleared, Caleb returned to practice, and what unfolded was nothing short of astonishing.

“During my third practice returning, I took a hit.” “I felt lightheaded, confused, and unsteady,” Caleb remarked.

Following three concussions within a span of two months, Caleb realized it was necessary to have a discussion.
“We will provide him with the data we are observing and analyzing.” “It’s understood that once you’ve experienced several concussions, your likelihood of sustaining additional concussions increases,” stated Head Athletic Trainer and Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Dave Strickland.

A recent report from the Radiological Society of North America indicates that young individuals who have suffered concussions exhibit diminished cognitive abilities, reduced test performance, and difficulties with concentration and memory retention.

“It’s challenging because at one time, it was all about what football could offer you, and now it feels more like what football can take from you,” remarked Caleb’s father, John Shiron.

After consulting with experts and taking his family’s advice into account, Caleb ultimately decided to retire from playing for good.

“I have been with them for a year and a half.” I will remain part of the team; I just won’t be out there with them anymore. Caleb stated, “It’s what God has intended.”

Caleb is pursuing a degree in exercise science, aiming to inspire fellow athletes to leverage the available information for making informed decisions that suit their needs.