Rugby Head Protocol Regulations

Rugby Rules on Head Impacts

The development of technology and science in sport has been crucial to the growth of each sport within education and grassroots up to the professional game. And nowhere is it more impactful than in Rugby Union and League. The research into head collisions and how these can be prevented are not only crucial for the development of the games for the players now, but also their lives outside of the sport. The impact of tackling and head collisions has caused some major rule changes and enforcement in the sport that feed down from international to the school fields, but are you aware of the prevention and player protection now? 

Here is a breakdown into the new stringent rules around head impacts that are there to prioritise player safety, reduce the risk of concussions, and lower instances of serious head injuries:

1. High Tackle Sanctions and Guidelines

- The definition of a high tackle is that any tackle that is above the shoulder line will be penalised as high tackles, with head contact considered particularly serious.

- Depending on the intent, force, and outcome of the contact, high tackles can lead to a yellow or red card. A yellow card is counted as 10 minutes in the Sin Bin and any intentional, forceful contact with the head will typically result in an automatic red card.

2. Head Contact Process (HCP)

- Referees follow a protocol known as the Head Contact Process (HCP) to determine if a head impact was reckless or avoidable. The process considers various factors, such as the intent of the tackler, their point of contact, and whether any mitigating factors exist.

- What is a mitigation factor? This is if the tackled player’s movement unexpectedly leads to head contact, such as slipping. This will likely result in a sin bin, but upon review may be upgraded to a red card.

3. Head Injury Assessment (HIA) Protocol

- Following any head collision, if a player shows signs of concussion or head impact, they must be removed from play for a Head Injury Assessment. Trained medical personnel can then use this test to decide if the player can return or if for player safety, they must sit out the rest of the game.

- If a player is diagnosed with concussion during a game or at training, they must follow a graduated return-to-play protocol. This takes a minimum of six days before being able to resume full play and training. This allows time for proper recovery to minimize the long-term effects of concussion.

4. Ban on Dangerous Techniques

- There are certain techniques in Rugby Union that have cause issues over the year resulting in injuries. One such technique is the crocodile roll, which involve twisting players out of a ruck and increase the risk of head and neck injuries. Any player using these could result in sin bin or even a red card if severely endangering a player.

- Jackaling, or trying to steal the ball at a breakdown, has also been scrutinised to prevent head and neck exposure. The new guidelines will reinforce safe techniques for players engaged in this aspect of the game.

These rules reflect World Rugby's ongoing commitment to research and policy development aimed at minimizing head impacts while preserving the competitive nature of the sport. Making sure Rugby is played safely and securely within grassroots and schools provide that safe space for players on both sides. This will enable the growth of Rugby across both disciplines and providing more inclusive opportunities for all players.

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