Reduction of Concussion and Head Trauma
Glen Iris Gladiators’ policy is guided by the AFL guidelines. The comprehensive guidelines to support the short and long term health and safety of all Australian Football players across all levels of competition are found in
Reduction of head trauma and concussion risk requires a broad approach that includes consideration of education, protective equipment, training practices, policy, rules and rule enforcement. It is also important that the outcome of any change is monitored and assessed. This includes measuring any potential unintended consequences of the changes.
Protective Headgear
- There is no evidence that currently available soft-shell headgear reduces the risk of concussion or other brain injuries in Australian Football.
- Helmets or headgear may have a role in the protection of players on return to play following specific injuries (e.g. face or skull fractures).
- Overall, however, there is insufficient evidence to make a recommendation for the use of helmets for the prevention of concussion in Australian Football.
- The AFL has developed a set of basic and advanced headgear standards for Australian Football and is currently working with commercial and research partners to develop and test headgear that meets these standards
Gladiators support the discretion of the player and/or his/her parents and or carers the wearing of protective headgear.
Mouthguards
- Mouthguards have a definite role in preventing injuries to the teeth and face and for this reason they are strongly recommended at all levels of football. Mouthguards should be worn for all matches and contact training sessions.
- There is some evidence that mouthguards may also prevent concussion or other brain injuries in contact sports such as Australian Football.
- Custom-fitted laminated mouthguards are considered to offer the best protection, where precision fit and quality materials offer maximum comfort & injury prevention. Over the counter “boil and bite” mouthguards provide better protection than no mouthguard, however, their protection may vary depending on the design, comfort, adaptation and thickness of the final product.
Gladiators’ policy is that the wearing of mouthguards is MANDATORY for both Training and Matches.
- Players without mouthguards at training will be limited in the activities they can undertake as determined by the coaching staff.
- Players without mouthguards at matches will NOT be permitted to play.