What is the UIL concussion and return-to-play protocol?
A student suspected of having a concussion must be removed from practice or competition immediately and cannot return the same day. Return to play requires written clearance from a treating physician and completion of the school's concussion oversight team's step-by-step return-to-play protocol.
Texas law and UIL rules require strict handling of head injuries. Any athlete who appears to have sustained a concussion during practice or a game must be removed right away and may not return to activity that day.
Getting back to play
- The student must be evaluated and receive written clearance from a physician before returning.
- Each district has a concussion oversight team that establishes a return-to-play protocol — a gradual, monitored progression of activity.
- Coaches and appropriate staff must complete concussion training and keep signed acknowledgement forms on file.
Coach responsibilities
Know the signs, err on the side of removal, and never let a student "play through" a suspected concussion. Keep the required training current and the acknowledgement forms signed by athletes and parents at the start of the year.
Official sources
Related questions
Can an athlete return to play the same day as a suspected concussion?
No. A student suspected of a concussion must be removed immediately and cannot return to activity the same day.
Who clears an athlete to return after a concussion?
A treating physician must provide written clearance, and the student must complete the return-to-play protocol set by the district's concussion oversight team.
Do coaches need concussion training?
Yes. Coaches and appropriate personnel must complete concussion training, and signed acknowledgement forms must be kept on file.
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