Rowan’s Law: Protecting Young Athletes at CMHA

7 Years of Safer, Smarter Hockey
This month marks the 7th anniversary of Rowan’s Law — Ontario’s concussion safety legislation designed to protect young athletes.
At Cumberland Minor Hockey, player safety isn’t just a rule — it’s a responsibility we all share. Concussions are serious injuries, and every player, parent, and coach plays a vital role in prevention and recovery.

⚠️ Spotting Concussions in Hockey
A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain. It can happen in a game, during practice, or even off the ice.
Recognizing the signs early is the first step to keeping players safe.
Common Symptoms
Physical: Headache, nausea, dizziness, blurred vision, balance issues
Cognitive: Confusion, trouble concentrating, memory lapses, slowed reaction time
Emotional: Irritability, sadness, nervousness, mood swings

🧠 What You Need to Know
  • If a player is suspected of having a concussion, they must be removed from play immediately.
  • No same-day return: A player can only return when cleared by a qualified trainer or physician.
  • Medical clearance is mandatory before returning to contact hockey.
  • If symptoms return, the player must stop activity and be reassessed.
When in doubt, sit them out. Protecting our athletes today ensures their future in the game.

🧾 For Coaches & Trainers 
  • Trust your instincts — if something feels “off,” treat it as a concussion.
  • Document every suspected incident in your team’s injury log.
  • Communicate promptly with parents/guardians and your division convenor.
  • Reinforce the message that safety takes priority over competition.

🩵 Together, We Make Hockey Safer
By following Rowan’s Law and CMHA’s concussion protocols, we create an environment where every player can learn, compete, and grow safely.
Let’s keep hockey safe, supportive, and fun for everyone.