New Zealand Football Implements Stricter Concussion Guidelines to Protect Players

New Zealand Football has introduced updated concussion guidelines before the new season, aligning with Sport NZ’s recommendations to enhance player welfare in Aotearoa’s most popular team sport. The most significant change mandates a 21-day stand-down period for players suspected of concussion, ensuring they only return to competition once symptom-free and medically cleared.

The revised guidelines establish best practice

s for managing suspected concussions in football and futsal, emphasizing a structured return-to-play process:

New Concussion Protocol: Step-by-Step Approach

1. Recognize – Identify signs of a suspected concussion.
2. Remove – Immediately remove players from play if a concussion is suspected; when in doubt, sit them out.
3. Refer – Ensure all suspected cases are evaluated by a qualified medical professional.
4. Rest and Recover – Players must follow full physical and cognitive rest, gradually resuming activity under medical guidance.
5. Return – A minimum 14-day gradual return to training and 21-day clearance for match play is now required.

These measures reinforce New Zealand Football’s commitment to player safety, ensuring that concussions are managed with caution and care.

For a detailed overview of the new concussion guidelines, visit the New Zealand Football Performance and Prevention website. Additional resources on concussion management and injury prevention can be found at NZF Learn.