This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The Provo School District and Timpview High School are investigating whether proper concussion protocol was followed during Friday's Class 4A state title game when Thunderbird quarterback Britain Covey suffered a head injury, according to a news release.
Following the game, which Timpview won 33-28 over East on a touchdown run from Covey in the final minutes, the quarterback told reporters, "I honestly think I have a concussion right now. I don't even remember who scored on that last drive. I think it was me."
According to the release, the school district had no verification that Covey suffered a concussion, other than reports from after the game. However, Covey said Tuesday that doctors diagnosed him with a mild concussion after the game, which he suffered on a big hit near the end of the third quarter.
According to Utah High School Activities Association policy, an athlete who shows any signs of having a concussion must be removed from play and evaluated by a medical professional. If diagnosed at that time with a concussion, the athlete is not allowed to re-enter the game.
"The decision regarding removal from practice or competition may be made by school designated medical personnel or a designated school representative," the UHSAA concussion management policy states.
Covey said coaches and medical staff checked him out on the sideline before clearing him to re-enter the game.
He was alert and able to answer all their questions coherently.
"I remember being completely aware," Covey said, adding that he didn't start to feel the effects of the concussion until after the game.
Covey said Timpview coach Cary Whittingham even brought down Covey's father to the sideline to make sure he seemed OK.
After the investigation, the Provo School District and Timpview will administer further concussion training or discipline if deemed necessary, according to the release. Whittingham did not immediately respond to requests for comment.