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Filed Under:Bernie Tafoya, concussions, High School Coaches, Illinois High School Association, legislation, Marty Hickman, Pat Quinn
Gov. Pat Quinn stands with members of the Brooks College Prep high school football team as he prepares to sign legislation requiring high school coaches to take online training on handling concussions. (Credit: Bernie Tafoya/CBS)

CHICAGO (CBS) — Gov. Pat Quinn has signed legislation requiring high school coaches to receive training in prevention of and reaction to concussions.

WBBM Newsradio’s Bernie Tafoya reports, according to the Illinois High School Association, more and more football players have been diagnosed with concussions.

A law signed by the governor on Tuesday requires coaches to take an online training course on concussions.

Quinn and one of his sons played high school football. Asked if, knowing what we know now about the health risks of concussions, he would have allowed his son to play football, the governor said “the answer is yes, although we need to make sure we adopt proper safeguards.”

“Concussions are serious. They’re injuries to our brain, and we’ve got to make sure that we protect anyone who is competing,” Quinn added.

IHSA Executive Director Marty Hickman said 10,000 Illinois high school coaches already have taken the required training.

“I think it shows how they’re embracing this whole concept of trying to minimize risk for high school participants,” he said.

He expected more concussion-related recommendations for high school sports on a national basis in a couple weeks.

“Maybe rules changes, maybe some recommendations on practice and contact, and things like that,” he said.

Hickman said it’s time for a new era in football.