Harmonisation and implementation of sports-related concussion guidelines in European youth football: the REFORM Erasmus plus project

Abstract

Introduction Sports-related concussions (SRCs) are frequently under-reported in youth sports, especially football, due to limited awareness, inconsistent reporting practices and a lack of medical personnel at the grassroots level. Concussion management protocols vary widely across regions, highlighting the need for a standardised approach. This study aims to harmonise SRC education and management practices in European youth football through an interdisciplinary collaboration involving football associations, healthcare professionals and academic institutions from Norway, Germany, Croatia and Turkey. The project will develop and implement educational resources (eg, toolkits, workshops and a Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)) targeted at coaches, players, parents, referees and medical personnel.Methods and analysis Using a participatory action research design guided by the Logical Framework Approach, the project will develop, pilot and evaluate concussion education tools across diverse football contexts. Surveys, focus groups and participatory workshops will be used to assess changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviours. Quantitative data will be analysed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data from focus groups and interviews will undergo reflexive thematic analysis. Engagement metrics from MOOCs and toolkits will also be tracked.Ethics and dissemination Ethics approval has been obtained in all participating countries. Informed consent (or parental consent for minors) will be secured for all participants. Dissemination will occur through UEFA, national football associations and complemented by social media outreach and presentations at sports conferences. The project is expected to enhance stakeholder awareness, improve concussion management protocols and provide a scalable model for concussion education in grassroots football across Europe.