Rowan’s Law, enacted by the Ontario Government in 2018, was established in memory of Rowan Stringer, a high school rugby player who tragically passed away in 2013 from Second Impact Syndrome after sustaining multiple concussions in a short period. This legislation aims to ensure a safer sporting environment for children, youth, and amateur competitive athletes.
Understanding how to recognize the signs and symptoms of a concussion—and knowing the appropriate steps to take—is critical. Whether you are an athlete, student, parent, coach, trainer, official, or educator, concussion awareness can save lives. The Ontario Government remains committed to implementing Rowan’s Law by providing essential concussion safety information to those who need it most. Raising awareness and shifting the dialogue around concussions—across sports, schools, and homes—will lead to meaningful change in how concussions are addressed in amateur sports and beyond.
All association Members and registrants are legally bound by the requirements of the Law.
Under Rowan’s Law, GCRA is required to implement a Concussion Code of Conduct for both players and coaches/trainers. As part of the registration process each season, all players and coaches/trainers must review and acknowledge the applicable Code of Conduct.
There are three age-specific versions of the Ontario Ministry’s Concussion Awareness Resources.