What must happen when one of my players has a suspected concussion?

SA Rugby's Concussion Regulations (updated December 2025) apply to all players, and ask for extra caution with players under 19:

1. Recognise and Remove: take the player out of the match or training immediately and permanently. They may not return that day. In amateur rugby the referee can show a Blue Card.
2. A medical doctor should diagnose the concussion.
3. 24 to 48 hours of physical and cognitive rest, then light activity that does not worsen symptoms.
4. At least 2 weeks with no contact rugby, even if the player feels fine.
5. A graduated return to play programme. The player must be symptom free before the high-intensity stages, and needs a doctor's clearance before full-contact training.
6. Earliest return to a match: 21 days after the injury. The only exception is a player managed by an SA Rugby or World Rugby recognised Advanced Care Concussion Doctor, who may return after no less than 14 days.

The off-field Head Injury Assessment (HIA) is not used in school or junior rugby. It is only for World Rugby-approved elite adult competitions.