NZ Rugby
DL210404ndr 025

NZR's Safety Initiatives

Rugby holds a special position in our country, giving us an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of many New Zealanders. That extends to doing everything we can to reduce the risk of injury, with a particular focus on concussions.

AndyMcArthur EdenLizardsVEastbourneRugby 2

Community Concussion Management Pathway

We want to ensure that anyone involved in rugby - players, coaches, refs and family - know what to look out for and what to do when they suspect a player has sustained a concussion.

The Community Concussion Management Pathway (CCMP) provides a clear pathway for all players, coaches, physios, and parents to follow when a player receives a suspected concussion. We recognise that concussions are not always a visible injury, and it is important we are cautious following a suspected concussion.
DL220409wpr 002

What we do

New Zealand Rugby is committed to protecting players through proactive concussion management. Our comprehensive approach combines education, prevention protocols, proper technique training, research, and player support. We partner with stakeholders to foster safer play and mitigate concussion risks.
1320582639

Latest research

Our commitment to player safety fuels our research initiatives. In collaboration with key partners, we investigate rugby's long-term impacts, focusing on reducing injury risks. We transparently share findings to drive evidence-based changes and foster a safer game for all.
DL210403pwr 004

Policies

Our concussion policy outlines clear steps for recognition, removal from play, and return to play processes. We also mandate education for coaches, referees, and players to raise awareness and understanding of concussion risks and management.
DL210403ndr 015

FAQs

Our FAQs are based on the latest scientific evidence and best practices in concussion management, and we regularly update them to ensure you have access to the most current information.