Rowan’s Law Concussion Safety Policy

Power Hockey Academy is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for all participants.
This Concussion Safety Policy has been established in compliance with Rowan’s Law, 2018 (Ontario) and outlines the Academy’s approach to concussion awareness, prevention, identification, management, and safe return to sport.

1. Application

This policy applies to all Power Hockey Academy programs, activities, training sessions, practices, games, camps, and events, including those involving athletes, coaches, instructors, staff, volunteers, and officials.

2. Concussion Awareness and Education

Power Hockey Academy ensures that concussion awareness resources approved by the Ontario Ministry of Sport are made available to athletes, parents or guardians (where applicable), and all relevant personnel.

Power Hockey Academy promotes education on:

  • The nature of concussions
  • Common signs and symptoms
  • The importance of early reporting and proper management

3. Identification of Suspected Concussion

A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head, face, neck, or body that results in rapid movement of the brain within the skull. Loss of consciousness is not required for a concussion to occur.

Any participant who demonstrates signs or reports symptoms consistent with a concussion will be treated as having a suspected concussion.

4. Removal From Activity

  • Any participant suspected of having a concussion will be immediately removed from play, training, or physical activity.
  • The participant will not return to activity on the same day, regardless of symptom resolution or competition circumstances.
  • Athlete safety takes precedence over performance or competitive outcomes.

5. Medical Assessment and Diagnosis

  • Participants with a suspected concussion are advised to seek an assessment from a physician or nurse practitioner.
  • Only a physician or nurse practitioner is authorized to diagnose a concussion under Rowan’s Law.

6. Return‑to‑Learn and Return‑to‑Sport

  • A participant diagnosed with a concussion will follow a gradual, stepwise return‑to‑learn and return‑to‑sport process under medical guidance.
  • The participant will not return to full hockey activities until written medical clearance is provided by a physician or nurse practitioner.
  • Power Hockey Academy will ensure that this process prioritizes long‑term health and recovery.

7. Reporting and Athlete Protection

Power Hockey Academy encourages the reporting of concussion symptoms and suspected injuries.
No athlete will be penalized, criticized, or disadvantaged for reporting symptoms or participating in concussion management procedures.

8. Policy Review and Compliance

This policy is reviewed regularly and updated as required to remain compliant with:

  • Rowan’s Law, 2018
  • Provincial guidelines and best practices
  • Hockey Canada

Failure to follow this policy may result in removal from activities or other appropriate action to protect participant safety.

9. Resources

More information about concussions and Rowan’s Law is available through the Government of Ontario concussion awareness resources.