The big subject of chat about Scottish Rugby this week is that of concussion after Racing 92 and Scotland fly half Finn Russell being ruled out of this weeks international against France.
Concussion is a serious issue at all levels of our game and the SRU along with our Club Development Officer, Steven Meenagh want to reiterate the concussion policy.
Concussion is a brain injury, which is serious! There are many potential symptoms of concussion and these can include headache, dizziness, memory or concentration issues and balance problems. Loss of consciousness is not required to diagnose concussion.
Scottish Rugby is committed to injury prevention and the welfare of all those participating in our sport. Players are entitled to take part in rugby in a safe and enjoyable environment. Scottish Rugby will adopt policies to minimise the risk of concussion and procedures for the appropriate management of any cases of concussion which may arise. Everyone within Scottish Rugby will be made aware of the policies and procedures in place to promote the safety and wellbeing of those playing the game.
Any player with concussion or suspected concussion must be immediately removed from the field of play, and only return to play/training in accordance with the Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) process. The key message - IF IN DOUBT, SIT THEM OUT - applies to all players! The Graduated Return to Play Protocols set out in the Policy are mandatory.
HIA (Head Impact Assessment) are not permitted in all domestic rugby games in Scotland
GRTP Process for Age Grade and Community Rugby Players
In relation to all players under the age of 19 (including elite level players) and all adult Community Rugby Players the following GRTP provisions shall apply:
All Player aged U19
Players under the age of 19 diagnosed with concussion (or who have suspected concussion):
Adult Players
Adult players (other than elite adult players under daily supervision) diagnosed with concussion (or who have suspected concussion):
Further details can be found;
The Scottish Rugby Concussion Policy
The Scottish Sport Concussion Guidelines
World Rugby Regulation 10 (Medical)