Participant Welfare
Our priority is to keep rugby participants safe on and off the field, and keep rugby matches running smoothly and without interruption. These resources help to ensure the safety of our players, coaches, match officials, and volunteers, as well as build community knowledge, empowering them to take action, and prevent incidents from happening on and off the pitch.
Concussion Safety
Rugby Ontario is committed to being a leader in the support and implementation of concussion safety practices. Knowing how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion, and what to do if a concussion happens – whether you’re an athlete, a student, a parent, a coach, a team trainer, an official, or an educator – saves lives.
Age-Grade Law Variations
Standard age-grade law variations provide a consistent set of age- and stage-appropriate modifications to the game, with a focus on enjoyment, player development, accessibility, and player welfare. All participants, coaches, and match officials should be knowledgeable about their respective age variations.
Mouthguard Use
To support the commitment to player safety, Rugby Ontario has introduced a new Mouthguard Use Policy leading into the 2026 rugby season. Research shows that wearing a properly fitted mouthguard during contact play helps to protect against dental and jaw-related injuries. While wearing a mouthguard does not prevent concussions, it is an important part of safety that supports Rugby Ontario’s approach to concussion management in line with Rowan’s Law.
Additional Resources on the Benefits of Mouthguard Use
Safety and Welfare Resources
Player Load
In line with World Rugby’s Player Load Recommendations, participant overload can be reduced by managing rest time, match play rate, and the frequency and intensity of practices. This is the collective responsibility of participants, coaches, officials, parents/guardians, clubs, and teammates. Overload increases the risk of injuries and can lead to burnout and a decline in rugby performance and enjoyment.
Equipment
To ensure safety on the field, all rugby participants must have proper uniforms and required safety equipment, including mouthguards for contact play. It is also important to remove any potentially dangerous or sharp items, including jewelry. Flagging any equipment issues before the game is the responsibility of players, coaches, match officials, and support systems. Participants should ensure their equipment is in good condition and permitted under World Rugby Regulations before engaging in play.
Physical Injuries
Injuries are an unfortunate part of any contact sport, so training to minimize their risk is key. Participants can do this by monitoring the frequency and intensity of play, wearing proper equipment, and checking in with themselves and others. In case of suspected injury, participants should be removed from play until proper processes can be completed, and the player is cleared to return. Review World Rugby’s Resources on Injury Prevention and Risk Management and Rugby Canada’s Tackle Smart Coach Reference Manual for more information
Mental Health
Mental health is just as important as physical health in rugby environments. Understanding, discussing, and supporting the well-being of all participants is key to promoting success and development. Review the following resources for more information.
Coaching Association of Canada’s Mental Health in Sport Resource Hub
Canadian Centre for Mental Health and Sport
World Rugby’s Resources on Mental Health
Lifestyle Factors
While training is key to developing rugby skills, a variety of off-field factors affect performance and development, including sleep, nutrition, and screen time. Review World Rugby’s Advanced Conditioning Lifestyle Tips for more information.
Rugby Ontario Webinars
Club Development Series: Safe Sport
Coaching Development: Safe and Confident Introduction to Contact Rugby
Research