Through my interviews, I was able to identify that there are individuals who believe that concussions in football are just part of the sport. These individuals strictly believed that if a person chooses to get involved in a particular sport, that they should face the consequences of playing that sport. There were also individuals that maybe were higher up (coaching staff) that weren't experiencing these conditions and consequences of concussion, so they really had no frame of reference, nor did they require the unmet need for themselves. I interviewed players as well and those who agreed with this mindset haven't actually had concussions themselves from the sport but may have suffered other injuries, they still believe that the protective gear they have is good enough. They especially referenced the sport of rugby, while similar they don't have any protective equipment. Some of these football players, who would benefit from this unmet need seem to truly not mind.
What:
There is a difference between the worry of just simply getting hurt in football and getting a concussion. When people think about getting hurt, they'll say they can get hurt all the time but its just the nature of the sport. When just 'getting hurt' or pulling a muscle the players are resilient and come back soon enough, but concussions can cause brain damage and that's where we would need to push the significance of the unmet need.
Why:
The unmet need isn't different for everyone outside the boundary than inside, but some. For those who are parents or players who've experienced concussion from the sport, they have a higher place on the need than coaches and players who haven't experienced concussion before. Also, people who know of the detrimental effects of the concussion become placed inside the boundary because they know the importance of this particular need.
Hi Julia,
ReplyDeleteI really like your post! I agree with you that there needs to be something done with the equipment to prevent fewer concussions. I know of a player who has struggled with this issue because it is really damaging to the brain. It is an ongoing struggle, and I believe there should be something done. Thanks for sharing!
Hi, Julia!
ReplyDeleteGreat post. First of all, you really seem passionate about this cause and the fact that football and other contact sports can cause severe damage. This is a huge issue, especially in young children. Your chart also was really good. Other contact sports have other issues associated and they have enough gear to protect themselves. However, football is the most common sport to get these injuries.
Great Post!
Hello Julia,
ReplyDeleteI think you really show knowledge and passion about this topic. I think it's great you have chosen to pursue something that you can easily put so much into. I can agree with you that some people see injuries as just a part of playing sports, and sometimes it is, but I think that the injuries do not need to be as serious as they are with as long lasting effects. I also like that you brought up other sports other than football to further your point.