Referee Group v3

Reporting a Concussion

We all have a role to play in recognising, removing, and assisting players who sustain a concussion to recover and return to rugby.

Community Concussion Management Pathway

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The Community Concussion Management Pathway is being trialled in Otago, Hawkes Bay, Canterbury, Taranaki and North Harbour. Our aim is to scale the programme nationwide in 2025. The pathway aims to facilitate better communication between the key stakeholders who influence player welfare, such as coaches, managers, players, parents, Provincial Unions, and medical professionals.

Exercising Caution

We appreciate that concussions are not always a visible injury, and so it is important we are cautious following a suspected concussion. By completing the Suspected Concussion Notification Form, you are taking a tangible step in prioritising player welfare.

NZR's Commitment to Support

Reporting a suspected concussion is a crucial step in prioritising player welfare and ensuring that appropriate care and support are provided. This form is designed to facilitate effective communication between key stakeholders, including coaches, managers, players, parents, Provincial Unions, and medical professionals.

Please note that this form is currently being trialled with select Provincial Unions. If you are outside these regions, please select "OTHER" in the Provincial Union dropdown.

What to expect after you've sent in a concussion form

About NZR v2

The form will guide you through providing essential information about the player, the suspected concussion incident, and any observed signs and symptoms. It is important to be as accurate and detailed as possible to ensure the best possible care for the player.

After you have submitted the form, New Zealand Rugby will:

  • Provide support related to return to play and medical appointments.
  • Send an email to notify the player, provincial union, and school/club of the suspected concussion and process for return to play.

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