Safe Sport & Concussions
Manitoba Paddling Association's Safe Sport & Athlete Protection Information
We openly and proudly commit all Manitoba Paddling Association clubs to Sport Manitoba's Safe Sport, Keeping Kids Safe and Coaching Association of Canada principles, goals, and policies.
Contact safesport@sportmanitoba.ca with any inquiries about their Awareness, Prevention & Action pillars.
The Canadia Sport Helpline
The Candian Sport Helpline is a free, anonymous, confidential and independent service in both official languages. You can reach them by phone, text, or email. Should you face abuse, harassment, or discrimination, please don't hesitate to contact them or the MPA board.
Concussion Awareness
Concussions can occur while participating in any sport or recreational activity. Since the circumstances under which a concussion can be sustained are so varied, it’s important for all coaches, parents, and athletes to be aware of the signs, symptoms, and what to do if a concussion occurs. MPA is committed to increased education, awareness, and established protocols that will assist you in gaining the knowledge and skills required to ensure the safety of your athletes. We can all work together to ensure a safe sport environment, and we recommend watching the Concussion 101 Video and reviewing the information below for all members.
To view or download any of the following forms or documents, please click on the link associated with the document.
Pre-season Concussion Education Sheet
Includes Return to School and Return to Sports Strategy
How can I help prevent concussions and their consequences?
Concussion prevention, recognition and management require athletes to follow the rules and regulations of their sport, respect their opponents, avoid head contact, and report suspected concussions.
Concussion Recognition Tool “Recognize & Remove”
Head impacts can be associated with serious and potentially fatal brain injuries. The Concussion Recognition Tool 5 is to be used for the identification of suspected concussions. It is not designed to diagnose concussions.
Medical Assessment Tool
This document can be used by an athlete’s Physician or Nurse Practitioner as the official “Medical Assessment Tool”
Medical Clearance Letter
Athletes who are diagnosed with a concussion should be managed according to the Canadian Guideline on Concussion in Sport including the Return-to-School and Return-to-Sport Strategies. No athlete that has been diagnosed and is being treated for a concussion can be “returned to play” without presenting the Medical Clearance Letter.
“Return to Play” Protocol
A concussion is a serious event, but you can recover fully from such an injury if the brain is given enough time to rest and recuperate. Returning to normal activities, including sports participation, is a step-wise process that requires patience, attention, and caution.
Additional Education/Awareness Tools & Information
A Parent’s Guide to Dealing with Concussions
Concussion Guidelines for Parents & Caregivers
Concussion Guidelines for Coaches and Trainers
Poster: I’m Not Invincible – Boy
Poster: I’m Not Invincible – Girl
Poster: Preventable: Have a Word With Yourself V.1
Poster: Preventable: Have a Word With Yourself V.2