Southern Lights On-Ice Injury Guide

What to do when a player is injured during a game or training

This guide covers on-ice injuries that occur during games or training with the Southern Lights. Follow these steps to ensure the player is cared for and any insurance needs are handled smoothly.

When the Injury Happens

1. Assess the Situation

  • If the injury is serious, do not move the player unless it's necessary for safety.

  • Assist the injured player off the ice if needed.

  • Alert rink staff (usually the Zamboni driver). For serious injuries, they'll assist at the bench.

2. Call for Help (if needed)

  • For emergencies, call 000.

  • Ambulance costs are covered through IceHQ’s insurance (once a successful claim is made).

  • Notify a relevant club contact for support and follow-up (see below).

3. Notify the Rink Staff

  • Rink staff should complete the Injury Report Form.

  • Record the key details:

    • Time of the injury

    • Location (which rink, what part of the ice)

    • What happened

4. Monitor the Player

  • If a concussion or head injury is suspected, the player must not return to play.

  • Help them get home safely—they should not drive themselves.

5. Where to Go for Minor Injuries

  • Heidelberg Urgent Care Clinic
    152 Burgundy St, Heidelberg VIC 3084 – open until 11pm daily

  • Epping Urgent Care Clinic
    Epping Plaza Shopping Centre – open until 10pm daily

📋 After the Injury – Follow-Up Steps

1. Encourage the Player to Seek Medical Attention

  • Especially important in cases of suspected concussion—a GP must clear the player before they return to play.

2. Inform the Club

  • Email [Club Contact Email] to:

    • Report the injury

    • Request follow-up support

  • The club will:

    • Notify the Treasurer to arrange a refund for missed games

    • Contact IceHQ to begin an insurance claim (if requested)

🛡️ Understanding the Insurance Process

IceHQ insurance covers many non-Medicare medical expenses, including:

  • Private hospital accommodation

  • Theatre fees

  • Physiotherapy, chiropractic, massage

  • Dental (for sound whole teeth)

  • Ambulance

  • MRIs (not covered by Medicare)

  • Hydrotherapy, acupuncture, osteopathy, podiatry

Medicare-covered services (like GP visits or imaging) are not claimable under Australian law.

If you have private health insurance:

  • Claim through your insurer first.

  • SportsCover may reimburse part of the remaining gap.

Loss of Income:

  • You may claim loss of income if:

    • You're unable to work due to the injury

    • You're not receiving paid sick leave

    • You provide a GP certificate and an employer statement

📫 Club Contact Points

If you're unsure what to do or need help:

  • Speak with your Coach or Team Organiser

  • Contact the Player Wellbeing Manager

  • Reach out to the Vice President or any Committee Member

📧 Club Contact Email: [Insert Club Email Address Here]