Misunderstood you the first time, I thought you were saying they had to see the action that caused it - my bad. But given your second post now you are incorrect.

The player doesn't have to be unconscious when the officials get to the player. As you pointed out it says "determined apparently unconscious". Therefore, if the player is showing signs or symptoms of being unconscious then they are done until written authorization. They don't have to be knocked out and not responding when you get to the player.

So in your case, just because the officials didn't get to her while she was knocked out they still could have said she was determined apparently unconscious by signs or symptoms and not allowed her to play until she got written authorization.

Good point. Now that you say that... but how would you explain that to the coach? "well, she's not feeling well, she's dizzy, etc.". Coach could just argue that the player did just hit her head and it could be a minor concussion. For me, it would be a much better argument had you seen the player actually unconscious with your own eyes (or partner's eyes seeing it).

Good question.

If the coach's arguement was that it was a minor concussion the converstation would be over pretty quick as the point would have been proven. Major or minor isn't a factor.

However, if the coach argues the player is just dizzy, etc... I would just tell the coach that I am siding on safety. They should hopefully understand that and if they don't then that's too bad. No note, no play.

That coach just better hope one of his/her player is the son/daughter of a doctor then, haha.

All good points. Thanks.