Blue Card

The purpose of the Blue Card Initiative is to enable referees to remove players from a match if they are suspected of sustaining a concussion. However, it is important to remember that regardless of whether a concussion is Blue Carded or not, that player is required to complete the minimum stand down period and follow the Graduated Return to Play.

As a minimum New Zealand Rugby will cover the cost for all blued carded players’ medical clearance examinations. Players need to keep their receipts, so they can be reimbursed. Talk to your local provincial union for specific details about how this works. 

IMPORTANT
This is not a fail-safe process as concussion symptoms might not appear for 24-48 hours. Coaches, players and family must keep an eye out for any of the signs and symptoms.