PLAYER HEALTH

Concussion & Injury Protocol

When safety is uncertain, participation stops first and evaluation comes next.

Last updated: September 2026
PROTOCOLRecognizeRemoveEmergency SignsReturn to PlayDocumentation

Recognize

Possible concussion signs may include headache, dizziness, confusion, balance problems, nausea, vision problems, sensitivity to light or noise, unusual behavior, memory difficulty, slowed responses or loss of consciousness. Symptoms can appear later.

Remove From Activity

A player with a suspected concussion or serious injury should be removed from play or training immediately. The club's operating rule is no same-session return when concussion is suspected.

Emergency Signs

Call 911 for emergency warning signs such as worsening consciousness, repeated vomiting, seizure, severe or rapidly worsening headache, neck injury concerns, significant breathing problems, uncontrolled bleeding or other potentially life-threatening symptoms.

Return to Play

Return should follow appropriate medical evaluation and any applicable league, governing-body or legal requirements. The club may require written medical clearance before a player resumes activity after a suspected concussion or significant injury.

Documentation

Coaches or staff should document the incident, time, observed signs, removal from activity, parent/guardian notification and disposition. Medical records themselves should not be stored in ordinary public website forms or unsecured email unless specifically necessary and appropriately protected.

New York Department of Health concussion resources should be used as an educational reference, and any stricter league or governing-body requirement controls when applicable.