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N Z Rugby already had a policy that every player who sustains a concussion, regardless of age or skill level, must observe a minimum 21-day stand-down period before returning to contact training. The updated guidelines provide more in-depth education for players, coaches, and referees on how to recognise concussion, and clearer protocols for concussion management. The Brain Health and Concussion Risk Management Plan was a collaborative effort between NZ Rugby, the NZ Rugby Players Assocation, and the NZ Rugby Foundation, three distinct organisations with different roles in supporting player safety. Lisa Kingi-Bon is the Chief Executive of the NZ Rugby Foundation, which is an independent charity that represents the interests of players who have sustained catastrophic, lifelong rugby injuries. It is a busy charity, which currently provides comprehensive support for around 90 players who were injured in grass roots, school, and in professional games. Alongside concussion, many of the people they support have suffered devastating spinal injuries. Lisa says updating the guidelines as we learn more about concussion is vital. “It’s about doing the right thing for our players, their families, and the future of rugby, and to encourage conversations about concussion and safety at all levels.” SPORTING BODIES ADOPT BETTER CONCUSSION GUIDELINES “It’s about doing the right thing for our players, their families, and the future of rugby, and to encourage conversations about concussion and safety at all levels.” Lisa Kingi-Bon Enhanced guidelines on managing concussion risk in rugby, from grass roots to elite level, were unveiled at the start of this year’s season. Headlines 13