Far too often
concussions are downplayed by professional athletes as well as coaches and
local media. However, they not only take a devastating toll on athlete’s
careers, but also on their mental and physical health. Concussions have been
known to cause serious brain trauma that can lead to anxiety, headaches,
irritability and so forth. This blog will be used to demonstrate the effects of
concussions on professional athletes, and the negative side effects they had on
their careers.
Former NHL player Eric
Lindros’ career was derailed due to a variety of concussions. Eric Lindros
entered the NHL in 1991 as the first overall draft pick. He would enjoy large
amounts of success early in his career with the Philadelphia Flyers winning the
Hart Memorial Trophy as MVP, and Lester B. Pearson award for the 1994-1995 seasons.
Lindros also recorded over 40 goals 4 times with the Flyers, and over 70 points
7 times. Lindros was a prime example of an athletic specimen at 6 foot 4 and
255 pounds. Much of his success can be attributed to his hardnosed power
forward style, which also contributed to much of his injuries.
After Lindros suffered
his first concussions in 1998, he became susceptible to further injuries and
trauma. There were obvious signs that the concussions Lindros suffered
transformed him for the worse mentally and physically. Lindros stated that he
became very sarcastic; as well as, selfish and didn’t treat people in a polite
manor. After Lindros began suffering from numerous concussions, his playing
style changed for the worse. He wasn’t able to use his power and strength down
the middle of the ice, and played with the fear of suffering further injuries. Due
to this Lindros was never the same, and was mediocre for the rest of his
career. Unfortunately, this very talented athlete never skimmed his potential
due to dreaded concussions.
