Oilers winger Beldad Ogeta and eight players suspended from Prinsloo 7s

Menengai Oilers speedster Beldad Ogeta is among the nine players restricted from competing in the Prinsloo 7s until they complete the Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) protocols. This follows the injuries they sustained at the Driftwood 7s.

The other players who must complete the GRTP before being cleared for play include Derrick Olela, Steve Odhiambo, Shuaib Wesonga (Blak Blad), Michael Wamalwa (KCB Rugby), Gilbert Ochieng (Nakuru RFC), Brian Ndeda (MMUST), Fidel Oloo (Nondescripts), and Brian Mwendwa (Strathmore Leos).

In a letter to the clubs, Driftwood 7s Match Day Doctor Aisha Omar identified several players who must adhere to the GRTP guidelines due to injuries or medical conditions.

These guidelines state that any player with a history of concussion or displaying clear concussion symptoms must be sidelined for at least 12 days, likely causing them to miss their next competitive match.

Players with no prior history of concussion, who successfully pass Head Injury Assessment 3 (HIA 3), can return to play after seven days, provided no abnormal findings are detected.

However, the Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) protocol mandates that players seeking to return earlier than seven days must obtain approval from an independent concussion consultant.

National Sevens Circuit title on the line as Prinsloo 7s pool are announced

Dr. Omar urged physiotherapists and licensed medics to prioritize player welfare above the game, stressing the importance of conducting thorough medical examinations before participation.

This includes a physical assessment, reviewing pre-existing conditions, and performing baseline concussion tests.

She also mandated that all Division 1 and Women’s teams participating in the 2024 Prinsloo 7s must have a Level 2 Immediate Care in Rugby (ICIR) medic or physio on hand for their matches, while Division 2 teams are required to have at least a FAIR Level 1 medic or physio, with additional support from a pitch-side ICIR Level 2 medic or physio.

Dr. Omar emphasized the necessity for teams to be equipped with a fully stocked emergency medical kit during both training and games, as well as ensuring players are well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet for peak performance and injury prevention.

Players diagnosed with a concussion must complete the Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) process before returning to the field.

Additionally, Dr. Omar highlighted that an objective tool for identifying and withdrawing players with suspected concussions will be utilized at the Prinsloo 7s, with the Match Day Doctor’s decision being final and non-negotiable.