Scans clear Tom McCartin of concussion symptoms

Sydney Swans young gun Tom McCartin is set to be available for the start of the season after scans cleared him of potentially career-threatening concussion symptoms.

Tom McCartin cleared of concussion. Picture: Phil Hillyard

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Sydney Swans young gun Tom McCartin has been cleared of potentially career-threatening concussion symptoms and is set to be available for the start of the season.

McCartin suffered a nasty head knock at training during the pre-season and was sent for a series of MRI scans which led to speculation his season and perhaps his career was under a cloud.

The 19-year-old has been on restricted duties but will return to full training on Monday after testing results revealed damage to an artery in his neck is an abnormality he was born with and will have no consequence on his ability to continue playing contact sport.

Swans coach John Longmire admits relief had spread through the club after receiving the positive news.

“Clearly we were very concerned for Tom and it was a difficult few days for his family while we were waiting for medical advice, so we are all feeling relieved,” Longmire said.

Tom McCartin has been given the all clear to return to full training. Picture: Phil Hillyard

“After thorough investigation, our medical team and specialists have found this is something Tom has had all his life, so he’s at no greater risk of injury than any other player.
“MRI scans can be very sensitive and sometimes pick up things that are innocent and innocuous. That was the case here.
“Tom will resume full training on Monday and we look forward to seeing him playing in the coming weeks.”

McCartin, the youngest player in the entire AFL in his debut season last year, had suffered a mishap at training which resulted in a concussion.

The Swans had refused to be drawn on speculation that McCartin’s career was potentially in jeopardy until the scan results were known.

Originally published as Scans clear Tom McCartin of concussion symptoms