AFL clubs have expressed frustration over a recent memo from the league regarding concussions during pre-season training. The document, which included a “concussion ladder” ranking clubs based on reported head injuries, has caused confusion, with many clubs questioning its purpose and lack of actionable guidance.
The memo highlighted that match simulation drills were the leading cause of concussions during pre-season, urging clubs to take note of their individual injury data. While each club received specific reports on their own head injury rates, many felt the memo lacked clear recommendations on how to adjust training to mitigate risks.
Some club officials have voiced concerns that the AFL is monitoring concussion rates without providing a structured plan for addressing them. The absence of direct guidelines on contact training has left teams uncertain about whether they should alter their pre-season preparations.
One of the biggest points of contention was the inconsistency in data interpretation. Some clubs found that higher levels of contact training did not necessarily correlate with increased concussion cases, leading to questions about how the AFL compiled and analyzed the figures. Without clarity, teams are struggling to determine whether they should reduce contact training or if other factors contribute more significantly to concussions.
Port Adelaide chairman David Koch was among those who publicly questioned the effectiveness of the memo, stating that while player safety is a priority, the AFL must provide clubs with practical and evidence-based strategies rather than just presenting data. The memo’s findings have prompted a growing call for clearer communication between the league and its clubs regarding concussion management.
Despite the concerns, the AFL maintains that it is committed to player health and safety, stating that it will continue to monitor training conditions and work with clubs to refine concussion protocols. However, no specific restrictions on contact training have been implemented at this stage, further adding to the uncertainty.
This latest development follows increasing scrutiny on concussion management in Australian Rules Football. The AFL has faced ongoing legal and medical pressure to take a more proactive approach in reducing head trauma. A Victorian State Coroner recently recommended reducing contact training after investigating the death of former player Shane Tuck, who was diagnosed with chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) posthumously.
Some clubs, including Collingwood, have already begun adjusting their training methods in response to concussion concerns. Veteran players have noted a shift in recent years, with clubs focusing more on non-contact drills and refining techniques to minimize head impacts in unavoidable contact scenarios.
While teams acknowledge the importance of concussion prevention, they are eager for clearer guidance from the AFL to balance player safety with effective pre-season preparation. Until more precise recommendations are issued, clubs will be left to interpret the memo independently, potentially leading to inconsistencies in concussion management across the league.
As the AFL season approaches, all eyes will be on how the league and clubs handle the ongoing challenge of concussions. With growing pressure from players, medical professionals, and legal entities, the AFL may soon need to introduce stricter policies to ensure the long-term safety of its athletes.
