Ongoing research in the area of Concussion In Sport increasingly highlights possible problems that can occur from even a slight blow to the head, with a worst case scenario being an onset of adverse immediate or long term health and welfare issues. The oft used phrase, “Duty of Care”, can be enacted through simply applying a cautious approach to expectations about players continuing their immediate participation, in circumstances where a head knock occurs and the player is clearly affected by that blow.
Stakeholders should NOT be relying upon FFNC to release a specific Policy document to stipulate precise terms that will ensure a response to an injury that outlines how every situation should be managed. We simply offer the sentiment about a player who is (or has recently been) injured;
“If In Doubt, Sit Them Out”
This concept should apply to “any” injury, however responding to the needs of a player with a head (or neck) injury is a particular matter.
For further useful information, links are provided below;
The Football Australia Concussion Guidelines can be found here
The Federal Government has compiled information regarding Concussion In Sport, which can be found by clicking here
