November 30 – European governing body UEFA has drawn up a concussion charter to educate stakeholders in the game and promote good concussion management.
“Everyone should know how to react and what to do,” said UEFA medical committee chairman Tim Meyer in a statement. “Concussion is undoubtedly a serious injury which needs to be managed and treated properly. The health and safety of any players taking part in Europe’s club and national team competitions is of paramount importance not only to UEFA, but also to national associations across the continent.”
The charter outlines what team doctors should do in case of a head injury to a player, but also urges the introduction of ‘education sessions’. Team doctors should explain the dangers of concussions to players, coaches and staff in line with the confederation’s concussion awareness campaign.
“Although research studies report a low incidence in football, everyone should know how to react and what to do in the event of a concussion on the pitch,” said Meyer. “By signing this charter, clubs and national teams will demonstrate their support for UEFA’s concussion awareness activities – and take a considerable step forward in helping to protect their players.”
Previously, UEFA asked the International Football Association Board IFAB to consider temporary replacements so that no concussed player would return to the field of play. Last year, IFAB approved trials with permanent concussion substitutes. The trials will run until the summer of 2022.
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