PIVOTAL TOPIC: Neuropsychological Assessment in Sports Concussion

the practice of neuropsychology within athletic settings. In recent months, the NFL acknowledged potential risks associated with football and the long-term health of professional athletes. The death of University of Pennsylvania football player, Owen Thomas, drew particular attention after the New York Times reported that his autopsy showed evidence of chronic traumatic encephalopathy. Media coverage has certainly increased public awareness of sports concussion, though the associated risks, assessment techniques, and methods of long-term care and management remain controversial within the field of neuropsychology. Neuropsychologists and athletic trainers have applied assessment techniques both on the field and in the clinic to guide decisions about return-toplay and individual player health. However, there are significant challenges to clearly defining a clinical syndrome associated with repeated sports concussions, as well as challenges to using psychometrically sound procedures within the physical and cultural contexts of athletics. Drs. Macciocchi, Echemendia, and Randolph offer topical summaries on these issues as supported by research and their clinical experiences. We hope that this issue of the Bulletin serves to generate additional discussions and debate, particularly in terms of how our field can continue to contribute to the science of sports concussion and the care of affected athletes.