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NIU Launches 'CheckPoint' for Concussion Management

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, January 31st 2026 at 20:32 GMT by WTVO Rockford
      Locales: Illinois, UNITED STATES

DeKalb, IL - February 1st, 2026 - Northern Illinois University (NIU) today announced the nationwide rollout of 'CheckPoint,' a revolutionary online tool designed to dramatically improve concussion identification and management in youth and high school sports. The free resource, developed in collaboration with the NCAA and leading concussion researchers, aims to empower coaches, athletic trainers, and parents to better protect athletes from the potentially devastating consequences of head injuries.

Concussions have become increasingly recognized as a significant health concern in sports at all levels, but particularly at the youth and high school levels where access to qualified medical professionals can be limited. Previously, identifying a concussion often relied heavily on subjective observation and recollection, leading to potential underreporting and delayed treatment. This could result in athletes returning to play too soon, risking second impact syndrome - a potentially fatal condition - or suffering long-term cognitive and neurological issues.

CheckPoint addresses this critical gap by providing a standardized, accessible assessment protocol. The tool, available at [ https://www.niu.edu/checkpoint/ ], utilizes a series of carefully crafted questions and prompts designed to evaluate an athlete following a potential head injury. It moves beyond simply asking 'Do you have a headache?' and delves into more nuanced indicators, including cognitive function, balance, memory, and visual disturbances. The platform guides users through a systematic evaluation process, aiding in the objective identification of concussion symptoms.

"We're excited to share this resource with the country and believe it will make a significant impact in youth and high school sports," stated NIU Athletic Director Sean Frazier. "Player safety is our top priority, and CheckPoint will serve as a valuable asset for those on the front lines - the coaches, trainers, and parents who are dedicated to protecting our young athletes."

The development of CheckPoint wasn't a standalone effort. It's built on years of dedicated concussion research conducted at NIU, spearheaded by Dr. Gregory Herzog and his team. Dr. Herzog's research has focused on the biomechanics of concussions, the long-term effects of repetitive head trauma, and the development of more effective diagnostic and management strategies. This deep understanding of the science behind concussions informed every aspect of the CheckPoint tool's design.

The NCAA's involvement signifies the growing national awareness of concussion safety and the commitment to improving athlete wellbeing across all collegiate sports. By partnering with NIU, the NCAA is extending the reach of this vital resource to a much broader audience, impacting countless young athletes across the nation.

While CheckPoint is a powerful tool, its creators emphasize it is not intended to replace professional medical evaluation. The tool provides guidance on return-to-play protocols, indicating when an athlete should be immediately removed from activity and referred to a qualified healthcare provider. The platform clearly states it is a supplemental resource and does not constitute a diagnosis.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Concussion Management

The launch of CheckPoint is just one step in the ongoing evolution of concussion management. Researchers are continuously exploring innovative technologies, such as advanced helmet sensors and neuroimaging techniques, to improve early detection and assess the severity of concussions. NIU's Dr. Herzog anticipates future iterations of CheckPoint will incorporate these advancements, becoming an even more comprehensive and effective resource.

There is also increased emphasis on preventative measures, including improved tackling techniques in football, enhanced helmet technology, and rule changes designed to minimize head-to-head contact. Education and awareness programs, like those facilitated by CheckPoint, are crucial in changing the culture surrounding concussions, encouraging athletes to report symptoms, and ensuring they receive the appropriate care. The long-term goal is to create a safer sporting environment where athletes can participate with confidence, knowing their health and wellbeing are prioritized.

Ultimately, CheckPoint represents a significant contribution to athlete safety, empowering those involved in youth and high school sports to make informed decisions and protect the health of the next generation of athletes.