The Concussion Policy for Touch Football has been redeveloped based on the Touch Football Australia signing and endorsing the Australian Concussion Guidelines for Youth and Community Sport in February 2024 and the new Concussion Recognition Tool 6 (CRT6). The updated Policy is intended to provide information on how to recognise and manage concussion from the time of injury through to a safe return to education, work and playing sport.
This policy provides a general overview of concussion identification and management, and the role members of the touch football community should play. The Concussion Policy for Touch Football is applicable for all levels of touch football.
Key messages for our Touch Football Affiliates:
- “If in doubt, sit them out!”
- The Policy introduces a standardised management process for suspected concussions;
- 14 days symptom free before returning to competitive training, and
- A further 7 days before returning to competition.
- The Policy recommends the implementation of a Concussion Officer at affiliates and events; and
- The Policy clarifies the reporting and documentation of concussion.
- Athletes aged under 19 years should NOT have access to earlier clearance available in advanced care settings.
Having recently been implemented by TFA at The Championships and by NSW Touch at both conferences of the NSW Junior State Cup, QTF will implement the policy at the upcoming QTF Junior State Cup. The new policy can be viewed here and is housed on TFA’s Sport Policy page. More information is available on the Australian Sports Commission website.
QTF will continue to work with TFA on the implementation of the Concussion Policy in Touch Football Associations across Queensland. For all enquiries, please contact James Sharp via james.sharp@touchfootball.com.au.
Please contact Sam Heath via sam.heath@qldtouch.com.au for affiliate support and implementation.
