X2 impact sensors were used in Ole Miss spring football practice to document head impact during plays.
OXFORD, Miss. – High school students from across the nation have been at the University of Mississippi this summer for the Heads in the Game: Concussion Research Program and will present their final research findings from 1 to 3 p.m. Monday (July 27) at Comer Auditorium in Brevard Hall.
The students arrived on campus last month and began working with the Center for Health and Sports Performance to use X2 Biosystems concussion detection software, which is used by Ole Miss, the NFL, the NHL and major league soccer teams. They are testing the equipment and software in Vaught-Hemingway Stadium to monitor impacts in real time from football players wearing the devices.
“The students received a scholarship from a grant from X2 Biosystems to complete this project,” said Matthew Morrison, assistant professor of engineering. “They learned fundamentals of computer science, engineering, biomedical science, and sports nutrition and performance. They also conducted interviews with Ole Miss coaches and athletic trainers in order to learn how to develop tools that can be used to continue improving the health and well-being of student athletes.”
The program, which is the first of its kind, is a partnership among the Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and the UM Department of Electrical Engineering and Division of Outreach and Continuing Education. It involves researching innovative STEM approaches for the care and training of college athletes. Discussions will also include training about concussion safety, nutrition and sports performance.