Scottish Referees show support for ‘If In Doubt Sit Them Out’

Scottish Referees show support for ‘If In Doubt Sit Them Out’

​Scottish Rugby Match Officials have pledged to help with the awareness of concussion with ‘If In Doubt, Sit Them Out’ on their shirts for the 2019/20 season.

Three of Scotland’s top referees, Hollie Davidson, Sam Grove-White and Mike Adamson were on hand to highlight the kit which is being worn this season.

The message shows a commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable sport for all and highlights that the welfare of players are paramount.

Andrew Macpherson, Referee Development Manager added, “Our role of match officials, player safety is our number one priority and the Scottish Sports Concussion Guidance forms a core part of all our training.

“We know that professional teams are able to support players with specialist medical teams, but in grassroots rugby it’s even more important for players, coaches, spectators and referees to be aware of the signs and symptoms of concussion.

“Adding the logo to all Scottish Rugby Referee kit keeps the ‘If In Doubt, Sit Them Out’ message at the front of all our officials’ minds on the pitch, as well as helping to raise awareness of the programme as we officiate at clubs right across Scotland.”

(left to right) Hollie Davidson, Sam Grove-White and Mike Adamson

What is concussion?

Concussion is a traumatic brain injury resulting in a disturbance of brain function. There are many symptoms of concussion; common ones being headache, dizziness, memory or concentration disturbance or balance problems.

It can be very difficult to tell concussion apart from other more serious injuries, such as bleeding on the brain. Concussion is a serious concern, not just in rugby but in other sports and in everyday life.

The Scottish Sports Concussion Guidance was launched in 2015, making Scotland the first nation to adopt concussion guidelines for all sports. Scottish Rugby takes the issue of concussion extremely seriously.

Our Concussion Policy provides advice and guidance for clubs and schools, players and their families and the volunteers who are the heartbeat of our game. The Policy is in line with World Rugby guidance and the Scottish Sport Concussion Guidance.

You can find Scottish Rugby’s Concussion Policy HERE

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