What is a return-to-sport protocol, and who can clear a player?

Under Ontario's sample protocol, an athlete who has had or is suspected of having a concussion cannot return to training, practice or competition until the athlete (or a parent or guardian if under 18) confirms to the designated person that:

• No concussion diagnosed: a physician or nurse practitioner assessed the athlete, found no concussion, and medically cleared them to return.
• Concussion diagnosed: the athlete goes through the graduated return-to-sport steps, shares the medical advice received with the designated person, and provides confirmation of medical clearance from a physician or nurse practitioner before moving to unrestricted training, practice or competition.

The designated person must also tell the athlete or parent about the importance of disclosing the diagnosis to any other sport organization the athlete is registered with and any school they attend. The regulation lets the designated person rely on the information the athlete or parent gives.

Source: https://files.ontario.ca/mhstci-rowans-law-protocols-en-2020-05-13.pdf