Football Toronto / Concussion safety
Protect yourself
with knowledge
Football Toronto is committed to a robust Return to Play protocol and to keeping the information behind it in front of the people who need it: parents, athletes, coaches, and trainers.
This page is a resource, not medical advice. It does not replace assessment, diagnosis, or direction from a physician, nurse practitioner, or other qualified medical professional. If you suspect a concussion, seek medical attention.
On the field
If a head injury is suspected
A suspected concussion is treated as a concussion until a medical professional says otherwise. This applies at every level, in games and in practice.
- Remove from play immediatelyStop the athlete's participation the moment a head injury is suspected. Do not wait for symptoms to develop or worsen.
- Do not return the same dayAn athlete removed for a suspected concussion does not go back into the game or practice that day, regardless of how they feel.
- Get a medical assessmentThe athlete must be assessed by a physician or nurse practitioner. Call emergency services for any red-flag symptoms.
- Follow the Return to Play protocolReturn happens in documented stages, cleared by a medical professional, and coordinated with the athlete's school.
Start here
Find your role
The information you need depends on where you stand. Choose the path that fits.
- At home Parents and caregivers What to watch for after a hit, when to seek care, and how recovery is supported at school. Open guidance
- On the roster Athletes How to recognize what you are feeling, why reporting it protects your season, and what return looks like. Open guidance
- On the sideline Coaches and trainers Your obligations at the moment of injury, and the documentation the return process requires. Open guidance
Governing policy
Provincial sport organization, association, and school board policies
These are the policies that apply to Toronto athletes. Where a school board policy and this page differ, the board policy governs.
- Provincial sport organizationFootball Ontario Concussion safety requirements for sanctioned football in Ontario.
- School boardToronto District School Board TDSB guidance on injuries and student safety.
- School board / PDFToronto Catholic District School Board TCDSB concussion protocols, policy S26.
- Safety standardsOntario Physical and Health Education Association OPHEA concussion protocols, the standard most Ontario school boards build from.
Keep this page current
Something missing or out of date?
Protocols change. If a policy here has been superseded, or your association has guidance Toronto families should see, tell us and we will update this page.
Contact us