AFL Players Association responds to growing angst about concussion in football

Amid increased focus on concussion after the retirement of Angus Brayshaw, the AFL Players Association has outlined where its stands on one of footy’s most complex issues.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA – FEBRUARY 23: Mark Keane of the Crows reacts to tackle by Willie Rioli of the Power and Sam Powell-Pepper of the Power causing a concussion during an AFL practice match between Port Adelaide Power and Adelaide Crows at Alberton Oval on February 23, 2024 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Mark Brake/Getty Images)

The AFL Players Association has ramped up its concussion policies, stressing its concern about the number of players who have been forced into early retirement.

In response to “recent events and commentary relating to concussion’’, the AFLPA has outlined its initiatives on concussion to AFL and AFLW players and player agents.

Melbourne’s Angus Brayshaw was the latest player to retire after scans showed his brain had deteriorated from late last season.

“The AFLPA remains concerned with the number of players who have had to retire due to the ongoing effects of concussion in the last 12 months,’’ the PA said in an email to player agents on Friday.

“Concussion is a critical and complex issue for players and the game, which the AFLPA takes very seriously.

“We acknowledge the industry’s understanding of this issue is evolving and improving and we support changes to rules if they result in improved player safety on the field.

“We play an active role in holding the AFL to account to make the game safer where appropriate for players, including through changes to rules, medical standards, and safety processes.”

Mark Keane is helped from the field after being concussed in a pre-season game. Picture: Mark Brake/Getty Images

The email detailed how the PA, via the recently signed collective bargaining agreement, had secured a significant increase in funding to the Injury and Hardship Fund in order to support past players.

“This new fund will further help ease some of the burden for those impacted by concussion into retirement and is scheduled to be in-place by mid-2024,’’ the PA said.

“We have been working with the AFL to understand their vision for a few concussion research projects, including a $25m commitment the AFL made towards a 10-year study into concussion and the development of a longitudinal research program.”

The PA is also set to form a health, safety and wellbeing steering committee, which will include medical experts.

“The purpose of this group is to guide the AFLPA’s decision-making relating to our advocacy with regards to concussion,’’ the PA said.

The AFL is yet to announce its concussion policy for the 2024 season in light of the Australian Institute of Sport recently proposing 21-day stand down for all community sports people playing in a collision-based game. The league’s current policy is a minimum of 12 days.