RC DIOK Leads the Way in Player Safety and Injury Prevention
On Wednesday, September 3, 2025, the Dutch Sports Council and the Health Council published an important advisory report on the risks of repeated head impacts in sports. Rugby Netherlands actively contributed to this research and, together with affiliated clubs such as RC DIOK, emphasizes the importance of these recommendations for the health and safety of players.
Although head contact in rugby is prohibited and not part of the game, the federation and all clubs take the risk of head and brain injuries very seriously. Rugby applies strict rules, preventive programs, and protocols to safeguard players.
Key Recommendations
- Reduce repeated head impacts and traumatic brain injury.
- Increase knowledge and adjust policies where necessary.
- Strengthen cooperation between sports and healthcare.
Actions for Clubs
- Mandatory training for coaches and referees.
- Presence of first-aid-trained staff at training sessions and matches.
- Workshops on injury prevention and concussion recognition.
- Strict application of protocols such as Recognize & Remove.
Results of Measures Already in Place
- Lower tackle height: 64% less head contact, 23% fewer concussions. Mandatory since last season for all youth teams en Men’s 3rd team.
- Activate program: Up to 60% fewer concussions thanks to this structured, progressive training program for all ages.
- Adjusted game formats: Tag rugby for children under 8 years old.
- Innovative research: Collaboration with international experts and sensor technology (advanced mouthguards tested by Men’s 1st team).
- Strict return-to-play protocols: Implementation of the federation’s Concussion Protocol with mandatory reporting to our internal medical committee.
RC DIOK, together with Rugby Netherlands, remains committed to providing a safe sporting environment. By working closely with international experts and medical partners, we are proud to lead the way in injury prevention and player protection.
On behalf of the RC DIOK Leiden Medical Committee,
Mees van Oord (Chair), Stefan Noort, Claudia Hummelink and Roelof Soeter (Medical Advisor)