Toronto FC and Holland Bloorview Kids Rehabilitation Hospital announced Tuesday that the club has teamed up with Holland Bloorview's concussion centre on a one-year collaboration with the Kia Toronto FC Academy.

“This collaboration is a commitment to ensuring a safer game for kids to play,” said Dr. Nick Reed, co-director of Holland Bloorview’s concussion centre and assistant professor at the University of Toronto. “Young athletes need to be informed about concussion prevention, identification and recovery strategies. We’re thrilled to partner on such an important initiative.” Video

The collaboration will focus on the club’s academy players to provide a comprehensive baseline testing program that includes a computerized neurocognitive test, as well as balance, strength and agility testing. In addition, the program will provide concussion education and training.

“Holland Bloorview is unique in their care, expertise and leadership in concussion. Their body of work and contribution to children’s health and safety is commendable. We are looking forward to working with an organization, that in addition to prevention and follow up care of concussion, values research and understanding the potential of the human mind,” said Toronto FC Director of High Performance Michael Rabasca. “Our academy athletes will have access to the latest best in practice standards and solutions related to concussion. This includes education, research, care and outcomes.” Video

It is estimated that one in five sport-related injuries are concussions. Roughly 200,000 concussions are reported each year in Canada, but the true number is likely higher as many go underreported. To learn more about the Concussion Centre at Holland Bloorview, please visit www.hollandbloorview.ca/concussion