What does the Hockey Canada concussion protocol require when a player may have a concussion?

Under the Hockey Canada Concussion Protocol (effective May 6, 2025):

• All players, parents/guardians, coaches, trainers and officials must review the Hockey Canada Pre-season Concussion Education Sheet before the first practice of the season.
• If a severe head or neck (spine) injury is suspected, call an ambulance immediately.
• A player with signs or symptoms of a concussion must be removed from participation immediately, including warm-up, practice and competition, and medically assessed as soon as possible.
• If symptoms appear later (for example that evening), the player should be assessed as soon as possible by a medical doctor or nurse practitioner.
• Every player with a suspected concussion must provide a Medical Assessment Letter saying whether or not a concussion was diagnosed. Completed forms go to the coach or Safety Person.
• If the assessment confirms no concussion, the player can return to full participation.
• If a concussion is diagnosed, the player must follow the Hockey-Specific Return-to-Sport Strategy and must provide a Medical Clearance Letter before returning to full practice and games.

Hockey Canada's Concussion Policy expects Members to direct all coaches, trainers and safety personnel to follow the Return-to-Sport Strategy as a minimum standard.