AFL Concussion First Aid: What to Do on the Field Using Australian Guidelines

Introduction

Concussion in AFL is a serious and increasingly recognized issue across all levels of the game — from junior footy to elite competition. Fast-paced collisions, tackles, and accidental impacts make head injuries a real risk for players, coaches, trainers, and spectators to manage.

Knowing how to respond to a suspected concussion is critical. Acting quickly and correctly can prevent further injury and protect long-term brain health.

This article outlines concussion first aid using Australian guidelines, including what to look for, what to do immediately, and when to seek medical help. For those involved in sport, completing First Aid Courses in Perth can provide the confidence and skills needed to respond effectively in real-life situations.

What Is a Concussion?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a blow to the head, face, neck, or body that transmits force to the brain.

Importantly:

• You do not need to lose consciousness to have a concussion
• Symptoms may appear immediately or hours later
• Every concussion should be treated seriously

Why Concussion Is a Big Issue in AFL

AFL involves:

• High-speed running
• Physical contact
• Aerial contests
• Falls and collisions

Because of this, concussion is one of the most common injuries in Australian football, including community and local Perth leagues.

Returning a player to the game too early can lead to:

• Increased risk of another concussion
• Prolonged recovery
• Serious complications such as second impact syndrome

Common Signs and Symptoms

Immediate Signs (On the Field)

• Loss of consciousness (even briefly)
• Confusion or disorientation
• Unsteady on feet
• Slow to get up after a hit
• Clutching head
• Blank or vacant stare

Reported Symptoms

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Feeling “foggy” or slowed down

Red Flags (Call 000 Immediately)

• Repeated vomiting
• Seizures
• Neck pain
• Increasing confusion
• Weakness or numbness
• Deteriorating consciousness

First Aid Response Using DRSABCD

D – Danger

Ensure the area is safe for you, the player, and others.

R – Response

Check if the player is responsive:

• Can they speak?
• Do they know where they are?

If unresponsive → treat as a medical emergency.

S – Send for Help

Call 000 immediately if:

• The player is unconscious
• There are red flag symptoms
• You are unsure

A – Airway

Ensure the airway is clear.

B – Breathing

Check for normal breathing.

C – CPR

If not breathing normally, commence CPR and use an AED if available.

D – Defibrillation

Apply AED if required.

Key Rule: “If in Doubt, Sit Them Out”

This is the most important principle in AFL concussion management.

If a concussion is suspected:

• ❌ Do NOT allow the player to return to play
• ❌ Do NOT “wait and see” on the sideline
• ✅ Remove them from the game immediately

Even if symptoms seem mild, the player must be assessed by a medical professional.

What to Do After Removal from Play

Once the player is off the field:

• Keep them under observation
• Do not leave them alone
• Monitor for worsening symptoms
• Do not give alcohol or medication unless advised
• Ensure they are reviewed by a doctor

For juniors, always inform parents or guardians immediately.

Return to Play Guidelines

Under Australian sports concussion guidelines:

• The player must be symptom-free
• Must complete a graded return-to-play process
• Must be cleared by a medical professional

Returning too early increases the risk of serious injury.

The Role of Coaches, Trainers, and Volunteers

In community AFL, first responders are often:

• Coaches
• Sports trainers
• Parents
• Volunteers

This makes first aid training essential.

Completing First Aid Courses in Perth ensures that coaches and club staff can:

• Recognise concussion symptoms early
• Respond using DRSABCD
• Make confident decisions under pressure
• Protect players from further harm

Why First Aid Training Matters

Courses such as HLTAID011 – Provide First Aid teach:

• DRSABCD response
• Managing unconscious casualties
• Recognising head injuries
• Emergency decision-making

For sports environments, this knowledge can:

• Prevent long-term harm
• Improve player safety
• Build confidence in emergencies

For clubs and individuals in Western Australia, enrolling in First Aid Courses Perth is one of the most effective ways to improve on-field safety.

Creating a Safer AFL Environment

Clubs can reduce concussion risk by:

• Promoting a safety-first culture
• Educating players and parents
• Encouraging honest symptom reporting
• Supporting “no return same day” policies
• Ensuring staff complete first aid training

Local Perth clubs are increasingly recognizing the importance of having trained first aiders at every game and training session.

Conclusion

Concussion in AFL is common — but mismanagement is preventable.

Recognizing the signs, acting immediately, and following Australian first aid guidelines can make a critical difference. The priority is always the player’s health, not the outcome of the game.

If in doubt, sit them out.

If you are involved in sport, coaching, or community activities, completing a recognized First Aid Course in Perth can give you the skills and confidence to respond when it matters most.