[Effective for all matches – 10/1/2026.]
The host team is required to secure qualified medical personnel for all home matches and tournaments. One of the following must be present on-site:
- Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) — Preferred for pre-match taping and injury prevention
- Physical Therapist (PT)
- EMT / Paramedic
- Medical Doctor (MD or DO)
- Military or Local Medic
- Nurse Practitioner (NP), Registered Nurse (RN), or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Medical personnel are not required to be registered in Rugby Xplorer.
Medical coverage must begin thirty (30) minutes prior to kickoff and extend at least thirty (30) minutes after the final match concludes. Pre-match taping is suggested but not required. The host team must introduce this personnel to the referee.
Medical Authority & Safety: The designated on-site medical provider has final authority regarding player safety, return-to-play decisions, and match participation. If multiple providers are on-site, the highest-credentialed practitioner (e.g., an MD or DO over an ATC) maintains ultimate decision-making authority.
Non-Compliance Penalties: Failure to provide required medical coverage may result in match or tournament cancellation, a forfeit by the host team, and/or potential disciplinary sanctions, including the loss of future hosting privileges. The referee may decline to officiate the match without the required medical personnel present; in that case, the host team will be liable for any referee assignment expenses.