Quick read
Key points
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Concussion is a temporary disturbance in brain function caused by a blow to the head or a significant jolt to the body, common in contact sports at all levels, including grassroots and community sport. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light, and don't always appear immediately after the injury.
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Topic-specific prevention and risk reduction will be added during the article-specific evidence audit.
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Anyone with suspected concussion should see a doctor before returning to any sport or training
01 · Know
What is Concussion in Grassroots Sport?
Concussion is a temporary disturbance in brain function caused by a blow to the head or a significant jolt to the body, common in contact sports at all levels, including grassroots and community sport. Symptoms can include headache, dizziness, confusion, nausea, and sensitivity to light, and don't always appear immediately after the injury.
The golden rule in grassroots sport is: if in doubt, sit them out. Anyone suspected of having a concussion should be removed from play immediately and not return to sport until properly assessed, since playing on with a concussion significantly increases the risk of more serious injury.
02 · Understand
Clinical context
When in doubt, sit them out
This simple rule, used across grassroots sport, means that anyone with suspected concussion should be removed from play immediately, even if symptoms seem mild, since the risk of continuing to play is far greater than the cost of missing part of a game.
03 · Act
Return to Sport Requires Medical Clearance
- 1Anyone with suspected concussion should see a doctor before returning to any sport or training
- 2A graduated return-to-play protocol is usually recommended, gradually increasing activity under guidance
- 3Any new or worsening symptoms during recovery should be reported promptly
04 · Prevent & manage
Practical steps
Never Return to Sport on the Same Day as a Suspected Concussion
Anyone suspected of concussion should not return to play on the same day, regardless of how they seem to be feeling — proper medical assessment and a gradual return protocol are essential for safety.
- 1Remove the player from play immediately.This is the most important first step — when in doubt, sit them out.
- 2Monitor closely for worsening symptoms.Someone should stay with the person for the following hours, watching for any of the emergency warning signs.
- 3Seek medical assessment before any return to sport.A doctor should confirm it's safe to begin a graduated return to training and play.
- 4Follow a graduated return-to-play protocol.This gradually increases activity level under guidance, reducing the risk of further injury.
- 5Allow full rest from screens and cognitive strain initially.Some rest from schoolwork, screens, and intense concentration in the first days can support recovery.
Medical information notice
Health education, not individual medical advice
BarnMD Health Library provides general health education for public health literacy. Reading this article does not establish a doctor-patient relationship and this information is not a diagnosis, prescription, or personalised treatment plan. If you have symptoms or concerns about your health, seek appropriate advice from a qualified healthcare professional. If you develop emergency warning signs, seek urgent or emergency medical attention.
BarnMD Bottom Line
Concussion is common in contact sports, and following proper protocols — removing players immediately and requiring medical clearance before return — protects long-term brain health.
When in doubt, sit them out — this simple rule protects players from the serious risks of continuing to play with a concussion.