From left to right: Fred Horton, Ashley Williamson, Chris Grijalba, D.O., John Lax, M.D.The University of Alabama at Birmingham Sports and Exercise Medicine has donated 800 Guardian Caps to the Birmingham Youth Sports League to decrease the risk of traumatic brain injuries and concussions.

The caps will be distributed among the players, so these young athletes will now have an extra layer of protection as they take the field in the league’s inaugural football season.

This donation from UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine highlights the dedication to offering superior sports medicine and care and illustrates the prioritization of injury prevention and safety.

“At UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine, our commitment to the health and well-being of Birmingham’s youth extends beyond clinical care, and through a generous gift from the Monday Morning Quarterback Club, we are proud to donate Guardian Caps—innovative protective gear designed to reduce the risk of concussions in contact sports," said Fred Horton, executive administrator for the UAB Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. "This initiative reflects our ongoing mission to deliver comprehensive orthopaedic and sports medicine services while actively promoting education, prevention, and community engagement. We are deeply grateful for the support that enables us to further invest in the safety and future of young athletes across our region."

The doctors and clinicians with UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine consistently seek to improve the lives of athletes and the everyday person, specializing in personalized injury prevention programs and treatment options for individuals in need of rehabilitation for physical problems. 

Concussions are a type of traumatic brain injury that occur when a sudden impact causes the brain to shift internally, damaging cells and disrupting brain function. Youth sports, especially football, can make children susceptible to these injuries. Click here to read more about concussions in student-athletes.

“When in doubt, hold them out,” said John Lax, M.D., assistant professor in the UAB Department of Family and Community Medicine and provider with UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine. “One of the biggest risks associated with concussions is ignoring symptoms and allowing kids to go back to play fast.”

UAB Sports and Exercise Medicine is committed to supporting coaches and parents in the mission of keeping the kids safe and healthy.