VAFA support AFL’s change to concussion policy

The VAFA is pleased to receive the news of the AFL’s change to the concussion policy for community football in increasing the return to play protocols for a concussion victim to a minimum 21 day period.

That minimum period is in line with the recommendation by the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), and based on our research, this is an appropriate position that reflects world best practice for community sport.

We do note that a minimum no contact period is only one element of the concussion protocols. Recognising the importance of this matter, the VAFA has been proactive in taking a multi-faceted approach to the concussion issues, as follows:

1) We require all players who record a concussion with us, to provide a medical clearance certificate from a registered medical practitioner before we allow them to re-register for their next game. This ensures the player’s health and wellbeing is being properly assessed by appropriate medical professionals and not left in the hands of Club volunteers following a policy of 21 days when, on occasions, a further period of rest may be required.

2) We have recently upgraded our injury insurance cover for all our 13,000 amateur players at no cost to our Clubs, to ensure that finances are no barrier for players needing non-medicare covered medical treatment under the concussion protocols.

3) We will continue to invest time and resources in partnerships with research institutions (currently Monash and LaTrobe Universities), exploring ways to minimise the risk of harm to our players caused by concussion.

4) We recognise the risk that missing games may be a deterrent for some players from reporting a concussion incident, so we will continue to provide significant levels of education for our Club administrators, coaches and players to ensure the players’ health and wellbeing is the priority consideration in any decision making instance.

The VAFA prides itself on providing a safe and welcoming environment for all our community and are therefore committed to be at the forefront of implementing and advocating for measures that address the risks of concussion.