Concussion Protocol

Applies to All Youth and Adult Programs
TOP CHEEZ Sports Initiative
Hockey Without Boundaries (HWB)
OPEN RINK Pro Tour and Community Leagues

1. Purpose
The purpose of this Concussion Protocol is to protect the health and safety of all participants. Concussions are serious brain injuries that require immediate attention. This protocol establishes consistent procedures for recognition, removal, evaluation, and return to play for both youth and adult participants.

Safety takes priority over competition, practice, or participation.

2. Definition of a Concussion
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow, bump, or jolt to the head or body that results in rapid movement of the brain inside the skull. A concussion may occur with or without loss of consciousness.

3. Signs and Symptoms of Concussion

Observable Signs (by coaches, officials, volunteers, or parents)

• Appears dazed or confused

• Loss of balance or coordination

• Slow to get up after a fall or collision

• Slurred speech

• Blank or vacant look

• Behavior or personality changes

• Forgets instructions, score, or position

Reported Symptoms (by participant)

• Headache or pressure in head

• Dizziness or nausea

• Sensitivity to light or noise

• Blurred or double vision

• Feeling foggy, sluggish, or confused

• Difficulty concentrating or remembering

• Fatigue

• Mood changes

4. Immediate Action: “When in Doubt, Sit Them Out”

Mandatory Removal From Play

If a participant shows any sign or symptom of a concussion, they must be:

• Immediately removed from play or practice

• Not allowed to return the same day

There are no exceptions.

This applies to:

• Games

• Practices

• Camps

• Clinics

• Scrimmages

• Showcase events

5. On-Site Response Procedures

• Stop participation immediately

• Remove the participant from activity

• Ensure the participant is supervised and not left alone

• Do not attempt to diagnose a concussion

• Do not allow the participant to “test it out” or return to play

• If symptoms worsen or are severe (vomiting, loss of consciousness, worsening headache), call emergency services

6. Medical Evaluation Requirement

Youth Participants (Under 18)

• Must be evaluated by a licensed healthcare professional

• Written medical clearance is required before returning to any activity

Adult Participants (18+)

• Strongly encouraged to seek medical evaluation

• Written clearance is required if symptoms persist beyond 24 hours or if the participant was removed by staff

7. Return-to-Play Protocol (Stepwise Progression)
A participant may only return after:

• All symptoms have fully resolved

• Medical clearance is provided when required

• Each step is completed without symptoms

Step Progression (Minimum 24 Hours Between Steps)

• Light activity (walking, stretching)

• Light sport-specific movement (no contact)

• Moderate activity (controlled drills)

• Full practice (no contact for youth unless approved)

• Full return to play

If symptoms return at any stage:

• Stop activity immediately

• Rest for 24 hours

• Resume at the previous symptom-free step

8. No Same-Day Return Policy
Any participant removed for suspected concussion:

• May not return to play the same day

• This applies regardless of how mild symptoms appear

9. Responsibilities

Coaches and Program Staff

• Enforce this protocol consistently

• Remove participants immediately when signs are observed

• Communicate clearly with parents or participants

• Document incidents when possible

Parents and Guardians (Youth)

• Monitor the participant after removal

• Seek medical evaluation promptly

• Follow return-to-play requirements

Participants

• Report symptoms honestly

• Do not hide injuries to continue playing

• Follow medical guidance

10. Education and Awareness
TOP CHEEZ programs emphasize:

• Injury prevention

• Honest communication

• A culture where safety comes first

• Respect for long-term brain health over short-term participation

11. Acknowledgment and Compliance
Participation in any TOP CHEEZ, HWB, or OPEN RINK program indicates acknowledgment and acceptance of this Concussion Protocol. Failure to comply may result in removal from activities until safety requirements are met.

12. Disclaimer
This protocol is designed to support participant safety and does not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Only licensed healthcare professionals may diagnose concussions or authorize medical clearance.

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