If you suspect a concussion, stop play.
If You Suspect a Concussion, Stop Play.
Know the first action and where to find the full Canadian guidance.
Legacy North editorial draft · October 2026
Recognise and Remove
If a concussion is suspected, remove the athlete from play and arrange appropriate medical assessment. Do not ask the athlete to “test it out” by continuing. Emergency signs require urgent medical attention; call 911 for an emergency.
Follow the Formal Pathway
The Canadian Guideline on Concussion in Sport provides the detailed recognition, assessment and return-to-sport process. Coaches should follow that guidance and their organization’s approved policy. A website checklist cannot clear an athlete to return.
Communicate and Document
Notify the parent or guardian, follow the incident procedure and record what was observed without diagnosing. Return to sport should follow the appropriate healthcare guidance and clearance requirements. Do not set your own universal recovery deadline.
Make It Useful.
Write your own next step. These notes stay in this page and are not saved or sent; print before leaving if you want to keep them.