Up to 70% of head injuries in the game are attributed to the tackle area, and Dundee Rugby have always taken a robust approach in the management of head injuries in order to ensure the safety and well being of their players.

While the Medical Team, First Aiders and Physios are watching the game, they will not be able to keep an eye on all players at all times. This is why the SRU have developed an e-learning module called ‘Concussion Education (General Public)’ to raise awareness around concussion. The course includes comprehensive support to help identify and manage concussion, and provides clear information on the new Graduated Return To Play (GRTP) protocols.

The Medical Team encourage ALL players and volunteers, to undertake this e-learning module (coaches should have this covered under their RugbyRight qualification) so that they are able to recognise if someone has sustained a concussion, and have an awareness of the importance of the rest and recovery programmes put in place.

With regards to the new GRTP guidelines - they have been designed to provide a more flexible, activity based, symptom led approach to concussion recovery and return to competitive play. The key change is the minimum period of time until a player can return to full contact training (must have had a minimum of 14 days symptom free at rest) and return to play (minimum of 21 days post-injury). At Dundee Rugby we trialled a similar GRTP protocol for players having sustained multiple head injuries, achieving highly positive results.

The link to the SRU e-learning module can be found here. This module is designed for players and volunteers in order to give them an awareness around the symptoms of concussion and details regarding the new Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) protocols following a head injury.

More information can be found at the SRU Concussion Hub here.

The Medical Team will still be the first point of contact for any head injury and concussion recovery advice.