Helmet Rules for College Athletes: A Push for Safety After Tragedy

On the evening of September 27, two promising soccer players from Cal State Fullerton found themselves at the center of a harrowing incident that would reverberate through collegiate athletics. Lauren Turner and Ashlyn Gwynn, both sophomores and key players for the Titans women’s soccer team, were struck by a box truck while riding e-scooters to a men’s soccer game. The collision occurred just as dusk began to settle, leaving both athletes with significant, life-threatening injuries and initiating a crucial conversation about helmet safety in college sports.

Before the Crash: A Typical College Day

Turner and Gwynn, both known for their sportsmanship and exemplary skills on the field, had spent the day preparing for the game ahead. As they rode their e-scooters—an increasingly popular mode of transportation for college students—neither wore helmets. What followed was a tragic reminder of the vulnerabilities athletes face off the field. Turner, who now battles severe head trauma, and Gwynn, who remains in intensive care, represent a growing concern among college sports programs regarding helmet laws for e-scooter and e-bike riders.

A Call for Change: Coach Demian Brown’s Initiative

In the wake of this devastating accident, Cal State Fullerton’s soccer coach, Demian Brown, has taken decisive action. “The safety of our players comes first,” Brown declared as he instituted a rule mandating all players to wear helmets when riding e-scooters or e-bikes. “We don’t want another program or another player or another student to have to suffer what we’re suffering right now.”

This sentiment resonates beyond his own team; other NCAA women’s soccer coaches have since reached out to express their support and commitment to similar safety measures. By emphasizing helmet use, Brown hopes to create a culture of safety within the broader framework of NCAA athletics.

Dangers of E-Scooter Use in College Settings

As college campuses adopt more e-scooters and e-bikes, the risk of accidents has risen sharply. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, injuries related to e-scooter use have increased by over 300% in the past three years. This alarming statistic has ignited debates regarding safety protocols for college athletes, especially when a significant number of students often opt for these vehicles.

• Nearly 78% of college students use e-scooters for transportation.
• Without helmets, riders face a 3.5 times higher risk of head injuries.
• Only 24% of e-scooter riders wear helmets, according to a 2022 study by the University of Southern California.

Community Response: Standing Together in Support

While the investigation into the crash is ongoing, the community response has been overwhelming. A GoFundMe campaign for Turner has raised over $97,000 to assist her family with medical expenses, while a separate fund for Gwynn’s family has accumulated more than $56,000. The concept of “community” has taken on new meaning, as these funds illustrate the camaraderie and support among students, alumni, and families alike.

Brown, alongside university officials, has consistently visited the hospital to support both families during this traumatic period. “I’ve seen firsthand the strength of Lauren and Ashlyn’s families,” remarked Brown. “It’s essential for us to rally together and show them that they aren’t alone.”

The Road to Recovery

Recovery for both athletes is uncertain but crucial. Brown shared that while they are achieving “little successes,” the journey ahead will be long and complicated. Medical professionals underscore that traumatic brain injuries, such as those Turner is facing, can lead to lifelong consequences, not just for the athlete but also for their loved ones.

“Every athlete should understand that the risks they take off the field can be just as dangerous as any physical challenge they face during gameplay,” said Dr. Sarah Mitchell, a sports psychologist at UC Irvine. “Awareness and preventive measures, like helmet laws, can save lives.”

Collective Responsibility

The broader collegiate sports community is now confronted with vital questions: How can we protect athletes outside of competition? Is it time for a nationwide helmet rule for e-scooter and e-bike users? Understanding the nuances of such policies may pave the way for safer environments on campuses across the nation.

As college sports evolve in this new era of technology and transport, the hope among many is that the tragic experiences of Turner and Gwynn serve as a catalyst for systemic change. We should strive to implement and adhere to safety measures that protect not just our student-athletes, but all members of the campus community.

In the face of adversity, Turner and Gwynn’s teammates continue their season, adopting a powerful motto: “Let’s do hard things.” Far beyond the soccer field, this mantra seeks to inspire resilience, community, and, ultimately, change. Their coach reflects on this shared mission, stating, “I am in complete awe of our players and how they’ve handled this hard thing.” As they rally around their injured friends, the Titans embody the very essence of sport: to rise, to challenge, and above all, to care.