Australian rules football, not just in the AFL, is currently facing mounting concerns regarding player brain injuries due to a spate of recent violent head-on collisions.
These incidents aren’t exclusive to the AFL but extend to regional country Australian rules as well. It’s imperative, for the sake of players and their families, that pertinent questions are raised regarding player safety.
One crucial inquiry revolves around whether players are adequately covered, without loopholes or exclusions in the fine print, for the care and support needed in the event of concussions or brain injuries.
This would prevent placing undue burden on spouses and families to care for their loved ones. Similar to the NRL’s proactive measures to safeguard player wellbeing, Australian rules football must evolve its regulations to prioritise player protection.
The AFL’s historical neglect, spanning over four decades, towards player safety and welfare is undeniable. Unfortunately, media coverage of brain injuries sustained by local or AFL players has been scant or non-existent.
However, blatantly unavoidable incidents, such as when a player is knocked unconscious during a game, prompting its cancellation and the player’s subsequent hospitalisation, garner media attention. This sporadic reporting does little to mitigate the suffering endured by brain-injured players and their families.
It’s high time for the AFL to enact significant rule changes to ensure the safety and wellbeing of its players. The status quo is no longer acceptable, and decisive action must be taken to prevent further harm.
12°C