Star Eagle Jeremy McGovern to be assessed by AFL Concussion Panel
The future of a star West Coast Eagle is in the AFL Concussion Panel’s hands after he failed to advance through the mandatory concussion protocols.
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The future of West Coast Eagles superstar Jeremy McGovern is in the hands of the AFL Concussion Panel after he failed to progress out of concussion protocols.
McGovern was concussed against Melbourne in round 8 on Saturday, May 3 and has suffered ongoing symptoms in his recovery.
The Eagles have referred McGovern to the AFL Concussion Panel, which will ultimately decide his future in the competition.
The outcomes for McGovern stretch from personalised treatment to immediate medical retirement.
“Jeremy’s health and wellbeing is our number one priority, and he has not currently advanced through the concussion protocols due to ongoing symptoms,” West Coast general manager football Gavin Bell said.
“Jeremy has suffered multiple concussions over his career, which adds complexity to his situation and his recovery. Our club doctors, in conjunction with the AFL chief medical officer, have recommended referral to the AFL Concussion Panel to help inform a safe way forward in the interest of his current and future welfare.
“We are awaiting a date for the panel to convene and assess Jeremy, and there are a range of outcomes that could result from their report.
“These may include personalised treatment or rehabilitation plans, an extension of the return-to-play time frame, recommendations for further tests or specialist referrals, or retirement on medical grounds.
“The club requests Jeremy’s privacy is respected at this time while this confidential process unfolds. The club will provide a further update in due course.”
If deemed unfit to return, McGovern would be the third West Coast Eagle in the past five years to be forced into retirement by repeat concussions.
Star defender Brad Sheppard and premiership youngster Daniel Venables were both forced into retirement in 2021.
McGovern is a five-time All-Australian, premiership player and won the Eagles’ best and fairest award last year.
Originally published as Star Eagle Jeremy McGovern to be assessed by AFL Concussion Panel
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