Ted Johnson
I'm committed to helping kids, coaches and the public understand the seriousness of sports concussion...
Ted Johnson, a 10-year veteran of the New England Patriots, knows all about the thrill of victory. As a middle linebacker, he helped the Pats win three Super Bowl titles. He played for Colorado University before being drafted by the Patriots, and was a high school football star before that.
But Ted paid a high price for fame, suffering multiple concussions throughout his career. He sustained his first concussion during a high school football game. In 2002, he had back-to-back concussions; then averaged two or three a season before retiring from football in 2005. Ted’s sports-related concussions left him with headaches, irritability, lethargy, disorganization, and other symptoms.
Now, he’s determined to spread the word about the dangers of sports concussions and found the perfect venue with BIA-MA. In 2007, he spoke at BIA-MA’s Youth Sports Concussion Conference and in 2010, he participated in BIA-MA’s award-winning video “Play Smart: Understanding Sports Concussion.”
“It’s so important for coaches and athletic trainers to watch out for young players,” he says. “Kids have their whole lives ahead of them. Going back into the game too soon after concussion can have dire consequences. It’s just not worth it.”
“Likewise, parents and athletes need to know the signs and symptoms of concussion,” he adds. “We all need to look out for each other.”
Ted is pleased that the National Football League has made some changes regarding “return to play” after concussion and hopes that high schools will become more proactive and vigilant in protecting young players.
“I want people to know about the dangers and long-term effects of multiple concussions. I didn’t. If I had known the dangers, I could have made better decisions about staying in the game or getting out.”
“I’m committed to working with BIA-MA to help kids, coaches, trainers, and the public understand the seriousness of sports concussions.”