The Australian Football League adjusts concussion protocol at community level to a 21-day mandatory stand-down, underscoring a committed approach to enhancing player safety. The move follows increased concern over the long-term effects of head injuries in the sport.
The Australian Football League (AFL) has implemented a new concussion protocol for community-level football, extending the mandatory stand-down period after a concussion from 12 to 21 days for all ages and levels outside of the elite AFL and AFLW competitions. This adjustment, effective immediately, aligns with the Australian Institute of Sport’s Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement and is aimed at enhancing player safety by providing additional recovery time before returning to play.
The decision reflects growing concerns over the long-term effects of head injuries and underlines the league’s intensified focus on reducing the risk of repeated concussions. This is particularly significant in light of recent incidents, including the retirement of Melbourne player Angus Brayshaw following a series of head injuries, and the increased scrutiny on head-high tackles within the game. High-profile cases have led to severe penalties being imposed for dangerous play that results in concussions.
Despite these changes at the community level, the AFL and AFLW competitions will continue to enforce the existing 12-day return-to-play protocols for elite players. However, elite players competing in lower-level leagues will also be subject to the 21-day rule, ensuring a consistent approach across different tiers of the sport.
This revision comes as the AFL launches into its 2024 season, amid challenges such as the need to revise its illicit drugs policy, ongoing concussion concerns, and the effort to promote the game in New South Wales and Queensland. The AFL’s CEO, Andrew Dillon, has highlighted the league’s commitment to addressing these issues while maintaining focus on the excitement of the game and targeting a doubling in participation rates.
The AFL’s approach to managing off-field challenges, including player safety enhancements and addressing the impacts of gambling advertisements, indicates a broad effort to ensure the welfare of players and the integrity of the sport as it tackles both the anticipations of a new season and its long-term growth aspirations.
