Our Responsibilities
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. They are:
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1. Recognise
Recognise the signs of a suspected or potential concussion
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2. Remove
Remove from play if a concussion is suspected and if in doubt ensure you sit them out anyway
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3. Refer
Refer all suspected / potential concussion to a medical doctor for diagnosis and return to play guidelines
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4. Rest
All players must have; full, physical & cognitive rest to ensure best recovery can take place if a concussion is diagnosed. Rest until symptom free
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5. Recover
Follow your medical doctor’s advice and gradually return to activity
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6. Return to play
Players should undertake a graduated return to training and play
2. Remove