Important steps to remember and keep players safe in the future took place at the Nickel Plate Depot on Sunday in Brocton.

Hundreds of area residents attended the Damon Janes Memorial Event, including parents Dean Janes and Penny Gilbert-Robinson as well as state Sen. Catharine Young. In addition, three bands, bounce houses, a chicken barbecue and bicycle racing was included at the event.

Janes died last year on Sept. 16 after sustaining injuries in a football game.

Of greatest significance is a new state law, Young announced, that creates a “special council so that the Department of Health and the Department of Education in New York state can keep on top of cutting-edge developments in concussion management and to ensure that the necessary information gets out to coaches, schools, and trainers, all across New York state.”

Those who attended also were able to view a remembrance tent, which included awards, photos from Damon’s life.

“We don’t want Damon’s memory to fade,” said Chris Sausaman, one of the event organizers. “He offered so much of his life to his teammates, his friends, and his family. He was just a special kid to many.”

Funds were also raised for a scholarship in Janes’ memory meaning that “special kid” will have quite a legacy.