AFL Community Concussion Guidelines
Explore the detailed guidelines on managing sport related concussion in Australian Football with a special supplement for the management of concussion in children and adolescents.
Section 1
Day of Injury Management
The most important steps in the initial management include (a) Recognising a suspected concussion, (b) Removing the player from the match or training session, and (c) Referring the player to a medical doctor for assessment.
Use tools to assist with the initial steps in recognising a suspected concussion, removing the player from the game, and referring them to a medical doctor for assessment.
- View Tool: Match Day Head Injury Assessment Tool and Referral Form (13+ years of age) (2 pages)
- View Tool: Match Day Head Injury Assessment Tool and Referral Form (12 years of age and under) (3 pages)
- View Tool: Concussion Recognition Tool 6 (CRT6)
- View Tool: HeadCheck app
- View Tool: Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 6 (SCAT6)
NOTE: the SCAT6 is for use by medical doctors only and facilitates the assessment of players within the acute phase of concussion (i.e. within 72 hours of injury)
Section 2
Return to Play
The four stages for return to play following concussion include (1) a brief period of relative rest (24-48 hours), (2) a period of recovery, (3) a graded loading program (with medical clearance required for return to full contact training), and (4) unrestricted return to play.
Use resources to assist with return to play following a concussion.
- View Flowchart: Four Stages of Graded Return to Play (1 page)
- View Form: Medical Clearance Form (1 page)
- View Tool: Sport Concussion Office Assessment Tool 6 (SCOAT6)
NOTE: the SCOAT6 is for use by medical doctors only and facilitates the assessment of players from 72 hours following injury.
Section 3
Videos & Testimonials
Watch videos where AFL players like Jack Riewoldt and Jude Bolton discuss their experiences and the seriousness of concussions in the sport, providing real-world insights into the impact and importance of proper management.
Watch Video: Jack Riewoldt discusses his experience
Watch Video: Jude Bolton discusses concussion seriousness
Section 4
Coaching & Skill Development
Explore posters designed to assist coaches in preparing players with the skills necessary to play safely and understand the importance of recognising and managing concussions.
Section 5
Concussion Education Course
Engage in a short course related to sport-related concussions by Connectivity to enhance your understanding and ability to manage concussions effectively in a sporting context.
Watch (15 mins): Sport-Related Concussion Short Course