Return to play recommendations

  • If any symptoms are present or reappear, contact training and playing must be avoided.
  • A minimum complete rest period of 24 hours is recommended for adults but a longer "complete rest period" is recommended in children and adolescents.
  • Rest from playing or contact training is recommended for a minimum of two weeks following cessation of symptoms in children and adolescents.
  • A graduated return to sport (GRTS) must be completed:
    • for ALL players diagnosed with a concussion
    • for ALL players even suspected of having concussion during a game or training at which there is no appropriately qualified person present
  • A GRTS should only be commenced after the completion of the rest period recommended and only if the player is symptom free and off medication that modifies symptoms of concussion.
  • Any player with a second concussion within 12 months, a history of multiple concussions, players with unusual presentations or prolonged recovery must be assessed and managed by health care providers (multi-disciplinary) with experience in sports-related concussions and no further participation in Rugby should take place until the player is cleared by a doctor with experience in concussion management.