With Rowan’s Law, passed into law in 2018, The Ontario Government has directed schools to focus on the importance of concussion awareness, concussion management and taking a personal pledge. As well as awareness, Rowan’s Law also created a concussion code of conduct for all sports organizations. In 2020 it will become law that any athlete with a suspected concussion must be removed from all competition, training or practice.
The last Wednesday in September is Rowan’s Law Day (#RowansLawDay) – a day to engage the general public, students, staff, coaches, athletes, as well as parents/guardians in activities that increase awareness about concussions and to share Rowan Stringer’s story. The tips, tools, and links to additional resources in the Toolkit linked below are designed to encourage and support your participation.
Tool Kit for Schools
About Rowan Stringer a 17-year-old girl who loved Rugby
Rowan Stringer loved rugby. A competitive and keen athlete, she was captain of her high school’s team. Tragically, in May 2013, 17-year old Rowan died as the result of head injuries she sustained while playing rugby. In the week before her last game, Rowan was hit twice while playing, likely sustaining a concussion after each blow. Her concussions went unreported, and she continued to play. Rowan suspected something wasn’t right—she texted a friend about her condition and used Google to search for information about concussions. When she was hit again in her final game, Rowan suffered what is known as Second Impact Syndrome— catastrophic swelling caused by a second injury to a brain still healing from previous trauma. Rowan collapsed on the field on May 8, 2013, and died four days later.
Take the pledge – Team Up Speak Up
Info for Coaches
Info for Teachers
Video
View these videos with your child/students and school community to promote awareness and spark discussion about head injuries and concussions:
CBC: Rowan Stringer ignored concussion symptoms days before death
CBC: Gordon Stringer is an advocate for brain injury awareness who has worked tirelessly to enact legislation and educate the public about concussions
