Release from 15.11.2022

Uniform concussion protocol goes into effect

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On Tuesday, the win2day ICE Hockey League put a uniform concussion protocol into effect for the first time. Standardized procedures following the occurrence of a potential concussion are intended to guarantee even better protection for players and referees. The new guidelines have proven themselves internationally and are now mandatory for every club.

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The new Concussion Protocol of the win2day ICE Hockey League was introduced on the recommendation of the first Medical Meeting in Bischofshofen this summer and is mandatory for all clubs as of Tuesday. It is also another initiative of the DOPS to make the sport safer.

The Concussion Protocol centrally regulates the procedure to be followed in the event of a suspected concussion. The document prescribes a detailed and wide-ranging procedure that must be followed precisely and is overseen by the stadium doctor in charge. This person cares equally for home and away team players, as well as referees. The standardized procedures do not replace the decision of the stadium physician in the area of "Emergency on Ice", they are used in an accompanying manner.

Baseline tests provide basis for comparison
A final decision as to whether a player or referee is fit to play again after a concussion and can therefore be used will henceforth also be determined by a reference value. So-called baseline tests were collected from each player and referee when they were in full health. The values deposited there, parallel to the previously imposed parameter in the field of neurology, must be achieved again for the return to play. The tests are carried out by means of a standardized computer program and must be submitted before a first assignment.

Christian Feichtinger, General Manager of win2day ICE Hockey League: "The introduction of a uniform concussion protocol is a great achievement for the entire win2day ICE Hockey League. The DOPS always strives to provide the best possible protection for our players and referees. From now on, the new uniform standards will guarantee even better monitoring of the players involved and more accurate fit to play decisions."