Referees in senior club and secondary school matches in Auckland can now issue a Blue Card to players suspected of receiving an on-field concussion, in a move to further enhance player welfare. 

The Blue Card Concussion Initiative has been introduced by New Zealand Rugby (NZR) following successful trials in three Provincial Unions.

Under the Initiative, if a referee issues a player the Blue Card, the player must leave the field of play and can’t return until they have completed a series of mandatory steps, including a three-week mandatory stand-down from play.

Auckland Rugby Community Rugby Manager Lewis McClintock said the introduction of the Blue Card Concussion Initiative sends a clear message about the importance of looking after players on and off the field. 

“Player welfare is everybody’s responsibility. Rugby is a contact sport and therefore carries an inherent risk of injury. It’s important everybody understands how to reduce the risk and manage injuries when they do happen, especially when dealing with head and brain injuries.

“We need to ensure all players don’t return to play until they are medically cleared and ready.”

The Blue Card Concussion Initiative was first trialled by Northland Rugby in 2014.  The positive results and feedback from the rugby community in Northland encouraged NZR to extend the initiative throughout the country.

Concussion seminars, led by Doctor Stephen Kara have been held for referees, coaches and managers over the past two weeks to explain what concussion is and how it can be identified on the field.

For more information visit www.bluecard.co.nz

Watch the following videos
Doctor Stephen Kara's presentation on concussion
Referee Responsibilities
Player Responsibilities
Team Responsibilities

About the Blue Card Concussion Initiative
The Blue Card Concussion Initiative extends NZR’s player welfare programmes which include compulsory RugbySmart safe technique training for all coaches and referees at all levels of rugby. This will also include players this year with the extension of the RugbySmart partnership with ACC. 

When a player is issued with a Blue Card by the referee, they must leave the game, and can’t return to play in that match. 

The player must then:
•    Rest until there are no on-going symptoms
•    Complete the minimum stand down period (21 days for adults, 23 days for under 19 players)
•    Undertake a Graduated Return to Play Protocol
•    Obtain medical clearance and submit it 24 hours before returning to play