Colorado lawmakers can pass ‘Alyssa’s Act’ to help coaches and parents monitor mental health

My older sister, Alyssa, was a soccer player and a ski racer. She loved sports, and they were a big part of how we grew up. In our family, athletics were never only about winning. They were about discipline, commitment, and learning who you are when things feel challenging.

In 2019, we lost Alyssa after she struggled with her mental health following a series of concussions. We later learned that concussions can be linked to serious mental health challenges and an increase in suicide, especially in young people.

Since then, my family has been working to raise awareness about the connection between concussions and mental health, including advocating for a new bill at the state Capitol — “Alyssa’s Act.” The bill would require youth sports coaches to receive basic mental health training and ensure parents are informed about potential mental health impacts after a concussion.

Like many athletes, I’ve experienced injuries, including concussions. At the time, my focus was always on recovery and getting back to the game. Looking back now, I see how important it is to recognize that recovery is not always just physical, and that the mental side of returning to play matters too.