34 Biomechanic data-driven behaviour modification to reduce concussion risk in high school football athletes

Statement of purpose Evaluate a mentored intervention program designed to teach safe play techniques and thereby reduce head impactfrequency and severity in high school football players. The behavioural modificationprogram is based on analysing each player’s head impactbiomechanics. Methods and Approach In a clustered quasi-experimental study design, the intervention was provided to two out of three teams in year one, and two out of four teams in year two. All four teams will receive the intervention in year three. Impactswere measured using in-helmet accelerometers worn by all players. Impactdata and game video were used to identify ‘high risk’ players on intervention teams to receive individualised mentoring. Mentoring effects were evaluated using head impactdata. Coach and player satisfaction were assessed to evaluate the program’s acceptability and impact. Results In total, 142 athletes (63 intervention; 69 control) have participated to date. Of these, 18 (25.8%) were classified ‘high risk’, with playing techniques amenable to intervention. On average, the proportion of head impactsclassified as high-magnitude (>60 g) dropped 3.9% from pre to post-intervention in mentored players. The proportion of top-of-head impacts(considered a high-risk impactzone) dropped 4.7%. There was minimal ( Conclusions To a modest degree, mentoring decreased impactsassociated with increased concussionrisk. Athletes and coaches viewed the program as effective. Significance and contributions to Injury and Violence Prevention ScienceBehavioural interventions have potential as a means of reducing head impactfrequency and severity in contact sports.