Concussion Management

USA hockey is mandating new procedures on handling concussions and we all need to be aware and accountable for these changes effective immediately.

Moving forward, any player suspected of a concussion, (leaving a game with a head injury or reports concussion symptoms after the game) will need a Return to Play Document before they get back on the ice. This form will require signatures from a doctor, parents and coach and must be submitted to RAHA (who will submit to USA Hockey) prior to the player returning to the ice.

I know this can put us in a challenging situation as coaches and assistants, but we always want to air on the side of caution and nobody is expecting you to be a medical professional. To help support you, New England Hockey has come up with a business card for every coach to carry that lists the signs of a concussion and some simple questions to ask a player (if there is head contact) to potentially decide if they can continue to play or need to be removed from the ice. Ex: What rink are we at today? What period is it now? Which team scored the last? Did you win your last game? etc.

These cards will be in the proshop by early next week - there will be an envelope for each head coach and card for assistants (HC's please pick up and distribute). These cards also have a QR code for the return to play form and player safety information. RAHA will be posting the new concussion procedures (see below) around the rink and communicating to the RAHA families as well.

This is not an optional policy and not following this can lead to disciplinary actions for coaches and programs, but more importantly it's the right thing to do for our players. We understand these decisions can be tough at times, but you have the board's support if needed with parents. Thank you and please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions.