In May 2013, 17 year old Rowan Stringer died as a result of a head injury she sustained while playing rugby with her high school team. In the week prior to her final game, Rowan had been hit twice, and likely sustained a concussion each time. These concussions were not recognized, and she continued to play. When she was hit again in her last game, she suffered what is known as Second Impact Syndrome - catastrophic swelling of the brain caused by a second injury that occurs before a previous injury has healed. Rowan collapsed on the field and died four days later in hospital.
A coroner’s inquest was convened in 2015 to look into the circumstances of Rowan’s death. The coroner’s jury made 49 recommendations for how the federal government, as well as Ontario’s government ministries, school boards, and sports organizations, should improve the manner in which concussions are managed in this province.
Hockey Canada, OWHA and Lake of the Woods Girls Hockey are in full support of the intent of Rowan's Law to create awareness of concussions, change the culture on concussions, and provide safe sport participation.
As of July 1st, 2019, every player, team official, and on-ice official (parent as well if the individual is under 18) must review the Concussion Code of Conduct and the appropriate Concussion Awareness Resources prior to registering/participating in LOWGH.
OWHA Concussion Awareness Resource
The Concussion Awareness Resources are available below in the respective age category:
Once these materials are reviewed by the player/parent, team official, or on-ice official, the below acknowledgment form must be signed and returned to the Lake of the Woods Girls Hockey Association prior to registering/participating in LOWGH.
OWHA Hockey Association Rowan's Law Acknowledgment Form
For more information on Rowan's Law visit the Ontario Government's website.