It only takes one concussion to increase an athlete’s chances of having mental or behavioral complications later in life. Those that get a concussion once are three times more likely to get another.

St. Thomas Board member and physician Ron Andrews (’87) sees the realities of these statistics every day in his work. That is why the Eagles are officially tackling the concussion crisis head-on. To keep up with the rise of concussion protocol awareness and prevention, Andrews has donated one hundred Guardian Caps to the St. Thomas football team.

“If we can do anything to prevent our student-athletes getting injured, as a physician and as a parent, I am passionate about helping,” Andrews said.

Guardian Caps are an impact-reducing soft-shell helmet cover, designed to move independently from the helmet beneath, so that forces—like those from a tackle or tough hit—are redirected around the head. The caps are lightweight, padded, waterproof, and can reduce impact up to 33%. Andrews’ generous donation will help keep our Eagles safe as they take the field this season.

“We are always floored by how much interest alums and Board members take in our institution; it’s really phenomenal,” Athletic Director Mike Netzel said. “We’re grateful to Dr. Andrews for his gift and are excited to put them to use.”

St. Thomas will be following in the footsteps of the National Football League, who have mandated the use of Guardian Caps in all preseason, regular season, and post-season contact practices. Football fans may soon see the helmet coverings while watching their favorite teams on TV, as the NFL announced on Friday, April 26 that players are now permitted to don them in-game.

“For all that St. Thomas has done to get me where I am in my life, I thought if this is the best of the best, our student-athletes should be able to benefit from it,” Andrews said.

Andrews believes that this donation is a step in the right direction for St. Thomas, to protect the football players and ensure a safer season ahead. The Guardian Caps donation event occurred on August 5, kicking off the first practice of football season on a safe, exciting note.