Not protecting your noggin? Get your head in gear! Learn to cross-country ski Christine Hill Media Relations Specialist Hennepin County Medical Center
Before you hit the slopes this winter, the Traumatic Brain Injury Center at Hennepin County Medical Center (HCMC) reminds skiers and snowboarders to “Get Your Head in Gear!” Getting in gear means putting helmets on those heads to reduce the risk for brain injury. Starting this Saturday and continuing throughout the winter, HCMC will be at various Twin Cities ski slopes providing information to skiers and snowboarders about the importance of wearing a helmet. You can find details about these special events, and information about the best winter head protection, at savethisbrain.org. “Maybe you’re the best skier or snowboarder in the world, but there are others on the hill who might run into you at high speeds—so you should always wear a helmet,” explains Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation specialist Dr. Brionn Tonkin. And besides, who doesn’t look good in a helmet? Competitive snowboarder Dylan Ludovissie is very much aware of the value of a helmet after not wearing one and suffering several hits to the head. Dylan will be making appearances at the weekend events at area ski slopes. “The risk factors scared me into wearing one,” he said. “Like if you experience a head injury, you might not be the same afterward.” You can read more about Dylan’s story at savethisbrain.org. “A lot of people think that you have to be knocked out to have a brain injury or head injury and that’s not true,” explains Dr. Tonkin. “They fall down and hit their head, feel a little dizzy—or even say that they ‘saw stars.’ These can certainly be signs of a mild head injury. One of the most common symptoms, however, is headaches right after the fall—or even days, weeks or months after the fall.” Dr. Tonkin also says that changes in sleep patterns, such as not being able to sleep or sleeping too much, or mood changes or anxiety can indicate that you may have experienced a brain injury. Other symptoms can include memory loss or word-finding issues. In addition to its protective qualities, wearing a helmet
this winter can also help skiers and snowboarders win prizes at HCMCsponsored events at various local ski destinations. Representatives from HCMC’s Traumatic Brain Injury program and other sponsors will be at each Snow Jam with games and prizes including Timberwolves tickets and ski helmet giveaways. Skiers and snowboarders “caught” wearing a helmet by the ski patrol will get a coupon for Dairy Queen. Ski patrol will also have information to provide to skiers who fall, explaining the signs and symptoms of a brain injury. Register for any of the Snow Jam rail events through the link at savethisbrain.org Get your head in gear—because safety has never been ‘snow’ much fun!
The temperature is dropping and snow is falling—perfect conditions for enjoying the great outdoors! Check out this and other great winter programs offered by the Anoka County Parks and Recreation Department. For more information, visit www.anokacountyparks.com or call 651-429-8007. Learn how to cross-country ski in one of Anoka County’s beautiful parks. Cross-country skiing is great exercise and appropriate for all ages and abilities. The activity fee includes ski rental, instruction, and cross-country skiing through our scenic Anoka County Parks. No experience necessary. Pre-registration is required. Register online at www.anokacountyparks.com or for more information call 651-429-8007. Fee: $15/adult and $10/youth (plus tax) Saturday, January 12 1:00-3:00 p.m. Sunday January 27 10:00 a.m.-Noon Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park, Coon Rapids Sunday, January 27 2:00-4:00 p.m. Bunker Hills Campground Visitor Center, Coon Rapids Protecting your head while enjoying winter activities is important. To learn more, visit savethisbrain.org Submitted photo
Sunday, January 13 10:00 a.m.-Noon Chomonix Golf Course (Ski Area), Lino Lakes
North Metro Soccer Association
Recreational Program Spring/Summer 2013 Registration Begins January 7 Traditional Recreational Program
Comp Prep Program
$90 Includes Uniform (ages as of 8/1/2012)
Monday/Wednesday Ages 7 & 8 (U8 boys and girls) The Comp Prep Program is devised for Rec players that have some experience playing U8 Rec soccer and already exhibit strong soccer skills. It is also for players who want an increased level of training and more playing time in the Spring/ Summer and who anticipate playing Competitive Soccer the following year. There will be minimal additional fees (less than $50 for the season) to participate in up to four weekend Jamborees. See website for details.
Monday/Wednesday ages 4 & 5 (U6 co-ed) ages 8 & 9 (U10 girls) ages 10 & 11 (U12 girls) Tuesday/Thursday ages 6 & 7 (U8 boys and girls) ages 8 & 9 (U10 boys) ages 10 & 11 (U12 boys) ages 12-17 (U13-U18 co-ed)
FREE
soccer ball
s!
for all U6 player
The Courier | January 2013 | www.the-courier.org
The Recreational Program will stress basic soccer fundamentals. Practices will be held on one night and games on the other. Each team consists of one or two volunteer coaches and 10-14 players. Fields are located in Andover and Oak Grove and teams will be organized into north and south divisions. The season begins April 22 and ends on June 29 with the Jamboree.
$110 Includes Uniform
Online registration preferred Walk-In Registration & Questions Answered Saturday, February 9 9:00-11:00 a.m. Adrenaline Sports Center 11521 Eagle Street NW Coon Rapids, 55448 Mail-In Registration (Online preferred) North Metro Soccer Assoc. PO Box 250 Cedar, MN 55011-0250 Registration forms are available at all city halls in the area. The registration fee will increase by $35 beginning March 1. Registration closes March 15.
Co-Coaches
Please consider volunteering as a co-coach. You will be making a big difference for youth and your child by volunteering with NMSA. Coaches will have the assistance of a NMSA sponsored trainer who will visit practices and games throughout the season. Please check the volunteer box to coach when you register your player. Thank you for making a difference.
More details, register online at northmetrosoccer.org Volunteering for positive youth development through soccer. 31