Concussion Management
Our Club follows the AFL's updated 2024 Concussion Protocols, which apply across all levels of Australian Football.
AFL Medical Director of AFL Community and Talent Pathways, Dr Anik Shawdon presents a practical guide to concussion management for local footy. This webinar provides an overview of concussion, the importance of understanding roles and responsibilities on match-day and at training, as well as the stages of a safe return to play.
Section 1 — Day of Injury Management
The most important steps in the initial management include (a) recognising a suspected concussion, (b) removing the player from the match or training session, and (c) referring the player to a medical doctor for assessment.
- Match Day Head Injury Assessment Tool and Referral Form (13+ years of age)
- Match Day Head Injury Assessment Tool and Referral Form (12 years of age and under) ↗
- Concussion Recognition Tool 6 (CRT6) ↗
- HeadCheck app ↗
- Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 6 (SCAT6) — for use by medical doctors only ↗
- Child Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (Child SCAT6) ↗
Section 2 — Return to Play
The four stages for return to play following concussion: (1) a brief period of relative rest (24–48 hours), (2) a period of recovery, (3) a graded loading program (medical clearance required for return to full contact training), and (4) unrestricted return to play.
Section 3 — Videos & Testimonials
Watch videos where AFL players like Jack Riewoldt and Jude Bolton discuss their experiences and the seriousness of concussions in the sport, providing real-world insights into the impact and importance of proper management.
Section 4 — Coaching & Skill Development
Posters designed to assist coaches in preparing players with the skills necessary to play safely and understand the importance of recognising and managing concussions.
- Prep to Play Skills – Videos & Posters
- Ground Ball Poster
- Coaching the Ball Carrier
- Aerial Contest
- Coaching the Tackler
Section 5 — Incident Report Form
Use our Welfare & Safety Report Form to lodge a report.
Section 6 — AFL Online Concussion & Injury Management Module
This education module has been designed by the AFL for Community Sport Trainers and First Aiders to provide information and awareness of the AFL's Community Football Concussion Guidelines and medical treatment requirements. Anyone involved in local footy is encouraged to complete this module by creating an account at the AFL's learning platform.
