Concussion is a brain injury and can be caused by a direct

or indirect hit to the player’s head or body. Concussion

typically results in an immediate onset of short lived

signs and symptoms. However in some cases, the signs

and symptoms of concussion may evolve over a number

of minutes or hours.

Concussion diagnosis is a clinical judgement by a

suitably qualified medical professional.

GAA CONCUSSION GUIDELINES

The GAA Concussion Guidelines are based on

international best practice and are approved and

regularly reviewed by the GAA’s Medical, Scientific and

Welfare Committee. The guidelines are based on the

following key principles:

* Concussion is a brain injury that needs to be taken

seriously to protect the long term welfare of all

players.

* Any player suspected of having sustained a

concussion, should be removed immediately from

the field and should not return to play on the same

day.

* Where a Team Doctor is present, he should advise

the person in charge of the team (i.e. Team

Manager) in this regard and the player must not be

allowed to continue his participation in the game.

* Concussion is an evolving injury. It is important to

monitor the player after the injury for progressive

deterioration.

Concussion diagnosis is a clinical
judgement – Use of the SCAT 3(Sport
Concussion Assesment Tool 3RD Edition)
can aid the doctor in his /her diagnosis.
* Players suspected of having a concussion,
should have adequate rest of at least 24
hours and then should follow a gradual
return to play (GRTP) protocol.
* Players up to the age of 18 should have
a two week rest period and then should
follow a GRTP protocol
* Players should receive medical clearance
(by a doctor) before returning to play.
The guidelines have received widespread
acknowledgement and praise for their emphasis
on the principle “if in doubt, sit them out”.
GAA CONCUSSION RESOURCES
A Concussion education poster will be distributed
to all clubs via County Boards during February
2016 and is also available to download from:
www.learning.gaa.ie/Concussion
All clubs are requested to display this poster
prominently in their clubhouse or dressing
rooms.
Further resources including the full guidelines,
the GAA’s E-Learning Course and advice sheets
for Players, Coaches, Parents and Referees are
available on www.learning.gaa.ie/Concussion