Eric Pelly was a bright, dedicated and passionate 18 year old when he passed away suddenly on October 10th, 2006 after receiving a concussion while playing in a rugby match during his senior year of high school. The devastation of losing an 18 year old with so much potential is difficult to put into words. One thing we can put into words is the conviction we have to save other people from the potentially deadly affects of concussions.
The Eric Pelly Sports Education Fund does not seek to stop people from playing sports but rather to educate them on how to recognize the symptoms of concussions. Proper treatment, including physical and academic rest, and return to play protocol is vital in the treatment of concussions. If treated properly, the problems usually subside. On the other hand, concussions left untreated, can cascade into much deeper problems. Every concussion is serious and should be treated proactively. All donations to the Eric Pelly Sports Education Fund go towards an Eric Pelly Memorial Scholarship for a graduating senior at North Allegheny High School and also to Concussion Awareness.
