Our Responsibilities | Fit4Football

New Zealand Football takes concussion seriously. In 2016, we developed a Head Injury and Concussion Policy, which presides over all football and futsal in New Zealand. The New Zealand Football Head Injury and Concussion Policy provides six key protocol policies for guidance on the identification and management of concussion for all those involved in New Zealand football and futsal. Follow our six key protocols when you suspect someone may have suffered a concussion.

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6. Return to Play

Players should undertake a graduated return to training and play

1. Recognise

Recognise the signs of a suspected or potential concussion

2. Remove

Remove from play if a concussion is suspected and if in doubt ensure you sit them out anyway

5. Recover

Follow your medical doctor's advice and gradually return to activity

4. Rest

All players must have; full, physical and cognitive rest to ensure best recovery can take place if a concussion is diagnosed. Rest until symptom free

3. Refer

Refer all suspected / potential concussion to a medical doctor for diagnosis and return to play guidelines

1. Recognise

Recognise the signs of a suspected or potential concussion
2. Remove

Remove from play if a concussion is suspected and if in doubt ensure you sit them out anyway
3. Refer

Refer all suspected / potential concussion to a medical doctor for diagnosis and return to play guidelines
4. Rest

All players must have; full, physical and cognitive rest to ensure best recovery can take place if a concussion is diagnosed. Rest until symptom free
5. Recover

Follow your medical doctor's advice and gradually return to activity
6. Return to play

Players should undertake a graduated return to training and play