CONCUSSION REPORTS/BLUE CARDS

The current CMS/Match Reporting system allows for the reporting of serious injuries, concussions, etc. SCRFU follows USA Rugby guidelines and protocols, and expects all member clubs to do as well.

After completing the steps to return to play (below and via links) the player must provide a note of medical clearance by a physician before SCRFU can update their profile and permit rostering for competition. Only SCRFU can make this update, permitting the player to return.

For complete information and policies please refer to the following resource links:

• https://usa.rugby/concussion
• https://www.world.rugby//the-game/player-welfare/medical/concussion/concussion-guidelines

SUMMARY OF CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT

The management of concussion involves following the steps below and each step must be completed before moving to the next step.

At all times, players, parents/guardians, team officials, match officials, first aid attendants and medical staff need to act in the best interest of player safety and welfare by:

1. Taking responsibility for the recognition, removal, and referral of players to a medical doctor; and
2. Ensuring concussion is appropriately managed as per procedures.

Players aged 19 and over –

the minimum period before Return to Play is 12 days

Players aged 18 and under –

the minimum period before Return to Play is 19 days

Blue Card

In matches of U13 and older, when a player leaves the field due to signs and symptoms of concussion or suspected concussion, the referee will show the player a Blue Card. This card is a visual cue for team support staff. It must be recorded by team officials and triggers the off-field medical process to begin.

USA Rugby/World Rugby has included the following Law change – ’a tactically replaced player may return to play to replace a player who has been shown a Blue Card’.