UK sport unite under ‘If in doubt, sit them out’ mantra to protect grassroots athletes against concussion
This story is written by Progressive Rugby
Grassroots sports in the UK will for the first time align welfare guidelines to help with the identification, management and prevention of concussion.
It is the first time that UK grassroots sport will adopt a consistent and preventative approach across the piece in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The mantra ‘If in doubt, sit them out’ now applies as a call-to-action for all players, coaches, parents, schools and National Governing Bodies and sports administrators.
Progressive Rugby member Peter Robinson, whose son Benjamin died aged 14 following failures to remove him from a school rugby match in 2011, has campaigned tirelessly to promote ‘If In Doubt, Sit Them Out’.
Peter said: “It’s great to see the rest of the UK adopting the ‘If In Doubt, Sit Them Out’ concussion guidelines.
“It’s been a long road since 2013 when we first met the Scottish Government and called for greater education and awareness around concussion/brain injury.
“I like to think of it as #Bens Legacy.
“If it prevents one child from being allowed to play on with a suspected brain injury then it’s been worth it.”
Read the guidelines here.
The guidance, published by Sport and Recreation Alliance, forms part of Government’s Action Plan on Concussion designed for all who play grassroots sport.
The Government says the guidelines have been developed by an expert panel of domestic and international clinicians and academics in neurology and sports medicine.
It says it sets out steps to improve understanding and awareness of the prevention and treatment of concussion in grassroots sport where trained medical professionals are less likely to be routinely present.
Players, parents, coaches, teachers and administrators are now asked to read the guidance and familiarise themselves with the necessary steps to:
RECOGNISE the signs of concussion;
REMOVE anyone suspected of being concussed immediately and;
RETURN safely to daily activity, education/work and, ultimately, sport.
The guidelines include a recommendation to call NHS 111 within 24 hours of a potential concussion, to rest and sleep as much as needed for the first 24 to 48 hours and avoid using devices which involve screen time.
In addition, a graduated return to activity such as work, education and sport is advised to reduce the risks of slow recovery, further brain injury and longer-term problems. Individuals should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional if symptoms persist for more than four weeks.
Professor Willie Stewart, Glasgow University, said: “The release of these guidelines represents a world-leading landmark in sports concussion management. Based on the pragmatic, precautionary approach to immediate concussion management of ‘if in doubt, sit them out’, followed by an emphasis on individualised, self-managed return to normal life and sport, these guidelines set the standard for grassroots concussion management that all sports across the UK will follow.”
Simon Shaw MBE, former England rugby union player and President of the ‘Love of the Game’ campaign, said: “Concussion in sport can be a serious issue if not managed properly and, as a former sportsperson, I’ve seen first-hand the impact head injuries can have. Whether playing football as part of a Sunday league or training for a boxing match, it’s crucial that sportspeople at every level are protected. This guidance will help everyone involved in grassroots sport recognise the signs of concussion and remove people from play where necessary. The information is clear: ‘If in doubt, sit them out.’”
Wales international rugby union player Louis Rees-Zammit said: “It’s really important for everyone involved at grassroots level, whatever your role, to be aware of these guidelines, know the signs and take the right action to help protect players against concussion. Remember: If in doubt, sit them out.
“Concussion in sport can be a serious issue if not managed properly and, as a former sportsperson, I’ve seen first-hand the impact head injuries can have.” Simon Shaw