CONCUSSION POLICY

Watford Skating Club will follow the Skate Ontario Concussion Policy.

SKATE ONTARIO CONCUSSION POLICY

Skate Ontario has developed a standardized best practice Concussion Policy for the sport of figure skating in Ontario. This policy is not age dependent, all star 5 and up skaters, coaches, officials, and volunteers must be treated in the same manner.

Though concussions are common sport injuries, particularly among children and adolescents, their sometimes subtle symptoms may go unnoticed. Without identification and proper management, a concussion can result in permanent or severe brain damage.

If a concussion is suspected the individual MUST receive medical clearance by a physician or nurse-practitioner, preferably with experience in concussion management, in order to return to skate, train off the ice, or coach. Please note that skaters, coaches, and parents must NOT make the return to skate/train/coach decision on their own, even if the individual's signs and symptoms resolve.

Skate Ontario Concussion Policy

Skate Ontario Concussion Return to Play Form (Appendix A to Concussion Policy)

Skate Ontario Concussion Disclaimer (Appendix B to Concussion Policy)

Skate Canada Concussion - Safe Sport

ROWAN’S LAW:

Athletes and parents of athletes under 18 years of age must confirm that they have reviewed the Government of Ontario Concussion Awareness Resources below and Skate Ontario’s Concussion Code of Conduct for Athletes and Parents/Guardians (for athletes under 18 years of age) prior to registration and/or on the first day of skating. 

The following information must be reviewed prior to completing the Acknowledgement Form: 

Government of Ontario Concussion Awareness Resources – Rowan’s Law 

E-booklet: 

• Ages 10 and Under 
• Ages 11-14 
• Ages 15 and Up 

Skate Ontario

Concussion Code of Conduct for Athletes and Parents/Guardians

By signing the form you acknowledge that you have reviewed the Government of Ontario Concussion Awareness Resources and the Skate Ontario Concussion Code of Conduct for Athletes and Parents/Guardians (for athletes under 18 years of age).  

Every Star 5 and higher Skater or Parent (if the athlete is under 18 years of age) must sign and return their Rowan’s Law Acknowledgement Form to the at time of registration and before the skater is registered or permitted on the ice.  

The signed Acknowledgement Form is to be returned to your coach or any board member prior to your first one - ice session.  Watford Skating Club can not allow the athlete to participate until the form has been submitted. 

This Acknowledgement must be completed on an annual basis.