The IRB have launched a new concussion education drive, led by the video below, featuring stars of the game. The goal is to educate players, coaches and parents around the world to Recognise and Remove when it comes to knocks to the head. In recent years, particularly since the George Smith incident on the Lions tour of Australia, concussion management has become a real concern, and an area that has demanded attention. This video is hoped to be central to a game-wide education programme aimed at informing those involved in the sport about the symptoms and dangers of concussion on the rugby field. Delivering the Recognise and Remove message are Wales' Dr Jamie Roberts, England's Women's Rugby World Cup winner Maggie Alphonsi, Australia Sevens star Emilee Cherry, All Black Keven Mealamu and Italy captain Sergio Parisse. Education sits at the top of the IRB and its Unions commitment to changing culture when it comes to taking concussion seriously at all levels of the Game. The video will feature alongside player, coach and medic education at IRB tournaments and supplements education programmes delivered by individual Unions on an on-going basis. Research-based advances in on-field assessment of head injuries and graduated return to play protocols are benefiting the elite game, while at community level promotion of correct playing techniques and longer rest periods for youths is also supporting players. All of this is underpinned by research and guidance by a panel of field-leading independent experts. An enhanced concussion education website featuring public guidance and key information on the Recognise and Remove programme in English, Spanish, Italian, Japanese and Portuguese has also been launched. Learn more at www.irbplayerwelfare.com

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