Concussion in Gaelic Games – RECOGNISE AND REMOVE!

Updated concussion resources can be accessed via the GAA’s Concussion Education landing page here – https://learning.gaa.ie/concussion

These Guidelines apply to all Gaelic Games Codes and include guidance specific to female players

• • Concussion is a brain injury which results in a disturbance of brain function and can be caused by direct or indirect contact to the player’s head or body. It needs to be taken seriously to protect the short and long-term health and welfare of all players.
  • There are many symptoms of concussion, common ones being – headache, dizziness, memory disturbance or balance problems. Loss of consciousness occurs in less than 10% of concussions and is not a requirement in diagnosing a concussion.
  • It should be noted that the symptoms of concussion can present at any time but typically become evident in the first 24-48 hours following a head injury
  • Athletes with a history of two or more concussions within the past year are at greater risk of further brain injury and slower recovery and should seek medical attention from practitioners experienced in concussion management before returning to play.
  • Concussion is an issue that affects all sports and it is important that everyone involved in Gaelic Games recognises the symptoms of concussion and removes from playing or training any player with clear or suspected symptoms.
  • The key message is – Recognise & Remove. Recognise the symptoms of concussion and permanently remove a player displaying any of those symptoms from the game or training session.
  • Below you will be able to access a suite of resources, some targeted at medical personnel and others at those without medical training, which should be utilised by everyone involved in Gaelic Games – players, parents/guardians, coaches, administrators, referees and medics to ensure the welfare of all players at all levels of our games.
  • Everyone involved at any level of Gaelic Games is encouraged to familiarise themselves with the updated 2024 guidance document using the links in the landing page here – https://learning.gaa.ie/concussion