High school football season is here.  An exciting time, to be sure, but I always get nervous this time of year because I know the athletes are getting bigger and stronger, and the hits are getting harder and harder.  Concussions and head injuries are sometimes part of football, but two players died in North Carolina last year from concussions – this issue should not be taken lightly.  I urge all players and coaches to educate themselves as to all aspects of concussions, to consult with physicians, particularly those like WakeMed, Raleigh Neurology, and Carolina Sports and Family Medicine who offer dedicated concussion clinics to quickly assess and treat those with head injuries.  I am sure those clinics also have a wealth of information regarding concussion prevention and assessment, that trainers and coaches can use in their own training and locker rooms.  To everyone associated with football, please have fun, but please be careful.  To see more information about concussion clinics like those mentioned above, please click on the following link:  http://www.wral.com/lifestyles/healthteam/story/5832355/