If a player is removed for concussion symptoms, when can they return to play?

The correct choice highlights a critical aspect of player safety concerning concussion symptoms. When a player exhibits signs of a concussion, proper protocol requires that they cannot return to play until they have been cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. This requirement is in place to ensure the player's health and safety, as concussions can have serious and long-term effects.

The involvement of a qualified health-care professional, such as a physician or an athletic trainer trained in concussion management, is crucial. They assess the player’s symptoms and overall condition to determine when it is safe for them to participate in the game again. Only with professional clearance can a player safely re-enter the game, thereby minimizing the risk of further injury.

In this context, the other options do not fully address the necessary protocol surrounding concussion management. For instance, stating that a player may never return to play that day or may not return in that specific game does not encompass the possibility of a safe return with professional clearance. Likewise, allowing a player to return without proper clearance contradicts established health guidelines regarding concussion safety.