Return to Play - Player Responsibilities /
The Return to Play Policy is applicable for participants that are injured at training or games where a sports trainer is required to assess if the player can return to the field of play. This policy also extends to participants whom, due to specific injuries and illnesses, have missed at least one (1) competition game.
What is a Medical Clearance?
A Medical Clearance is a letter or form completed by the Player's doctor stating the person is medically fit to participate in Rugby League.
Read on below for answers on who needs a Medical Clearance and the Return to Play process for a Player.
Player and Parent honesty is vital in this process.
Do I need a Medical Clearance?
- A Medical Clearance is generally required where a player has missed games and training for longer than one week (7 days) due to a medical circumstance/condition affecting their ability to play.
- Some age restrictions apply. If in doubt, check with your state policy if a Medical Clearance is required prior to participating.
- Discuss with your team's sports trainer about requirements to return to play or train after an absence from injury or illness.
I had a concussion. What now?
Concussion is an evolving condition and complications can occur if a player continues playing before they have fully recovered. It is important to be honest and open when reporting your symptoms.
At the game:
- Ensure to answer questions honestly from the sports trainer to complete an injury report, including the Head Injury Recognition and Referral Form.
- You will need a copy of the Head Injury and Referral Form from your sports trainer to take to your doctor.
- You will be unavailable for selection in upcoming games until medically cleared by your doctor to return.
After the game:
- Visit your doctor as soon as possible. Expand the details below to see how to access a copy of the HIA Form.
- Follow your doctor's direction to make a graduated return to train and play.
- You will need your doctor to complete the NRL Community Head Injury/Concussion Medical Clearance and return to your team's Trainer before starting full contact training.
Accessing the Doctor Clearance / HIA Form on a mobile or tablet device
Step 1 - Once the Injury Report has been completed by your Sports Trainer, they can email you a copy of the Injury Case Summary. You can access the HIA Form by clicking the "Click here to access Doctor clearance form - HIA Form" link from the injury email (image below is example of email button link).
Step 2 - The HIA Form will open in your internet browser. If not already logged in, you will be prompted to log in to your NRL.com Account to access the form.
Step 3 - Select the Menu button for your browser. This is usually in the top corner and is represented by 3 dots or lines.
For example:
Step 4 - From the Menu, select "Share". It is generally accompanied with this symbol:
Step 5 - Select "Print", which is often accompanied by the image of a printer. Various options could be available and you may have scroll to locate the Print option.
Step 6 - From the Printer options available, select "Save as PDF" and download and save the PDF to your device. You can now email the HIA Form to the necessary parties. If you have a compatible phone and printer, you could also print the HIA Form to take to your doctor. Any Injury Reports and HIA Forms should be treated as confidential and only shared with relevant parties.
Accessing the Doctor Clearance / HIA Form on a PC or laptop
Step 1 - Once the Injury Report has been completed by your Sports Trainer, they can email you a copy of the Injury Case Summary. You can access the HIA Form by clicking the "Click here to access Doctor clearance form - HIA Form" link from this email.
Step 2 - The HIA Form will open in your internet browser. If not already logged in, you will be prompted to log in to your NRL.com Account to access the form.
Step 3 - Depending on your browser you can use the CTRL+P:
- Google Chrome / Microsoft Edge - Right click on the page, or use the "three dot" menu button in the top right corner and select "Print".
- Firefox - Select the "three line" application menu in the top right corner and select "Print".
- The "CTRL+P" keyboard shortcut is also generally accepted
Step 6 - If you have a printer available, you can now print the HIA Form, or select "Save as PDF" from the Printer options available and download and save the PDF to your device. You can now email the HIA Form to the necessary parties. Any Injury Reports and HIA Forms should be treated as confidential and only shared with relevant parties.
I would like some more information. Where can I find it?
The NRL has a range of policies and guidelines to ensure the game is played in a safe and fun environment. Explore the links below for more details:
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