AFL chair addresses concussion contract
AFL Commission chairman Craig Drummond has issued an apology regarding his involvement in a controversial concussion contract with Geelong Football Club defender Jake Kolodjashnij. Drummond was the president of Geelong two years ago when Kolodjashnij signed a contract that included a waiver. This waiver aimed to transfer legal responsibility for potential future brain trauma to the player, potentially absolving the club and its medical staff from future legal action.
The contract was reportedly not known to Kolodjashnij’s agent, and neither the AFL Players Association (AFLPA) nor the AFL were informed at the time of its signing. Despite Kolodjashnij passing an independent medical test, he was still considered to be at risk of future complications from head injuries. Kolodjashnij’s twin brother, Kade, retired from the sport in 2020 due to ongoing concussion issues.
Drummond stated that during his presidency in 2024, the matter was complex and sensitive, with obligations to both the player and the club carefully considered by the Geelong board. He emphasised that Kolodjashnij’s welfare was central to all discussions. While the player was medically cleared, the club engaged in extensive discussions with Kolodjashnij, his family, doctors, and insurers regarding his future and the potential risks of returning to play.
Drummond acknowledged that the club’s action of including a waiver in an informed consent document went too far, regardless of the player’s agreement, and confirmed it would be removed. He also admitted that keeping the process quiet was an error and clarified that he would not participate in AFL discussions concerning the matter. Drummond apologised for the mistakes made in this complex situation.
AFL boss Andrew Dillon echoed the sentiment, describing the situation as complex and unique. He noted that concussion and its effects on players in contact sports are a global issue. Dillon explained that Kolodjashnij, after suffering multiple concussions, was cleared to play by an AFL concussion panel over several months. During this period, Kolodjashnij worked with club doctors, independent medical experts, and the club’s board and management to ensure he understood the risks of continuing to play, despite being medically cleared.
Player speaks out
Jake Kolodjashnij publicly addressed the situation, defending his club and the process that allowed him to continue his career. He stated that he felt compelled to speak out due to speculation surrounding his private medical information. Kolodjashnij confirmed his full participation in the AFL’s independent concussion panel process, respecting its independence and being comfortable with the outcome, which allowed him to continue playing AFL football.
The 30-year-old, who celebrated his 200th game earlier this season after missing the 2025 campaign due to hip and groin injuries, expressed disappointment that his private medical information had been made public. He thanked his family, manager, teammates, the AFL Players Association, and Geelong for their support. Kolodjashnij affirmed his health and focus on playing for the team for the remainder of the season.
Geelong’s chief executive, Steve Hocking, took responsibility for the waiver and did not dismiss the possibility of sanctions from the AFL. He described the failure to notify the league as a “misstep” and confirmed that AFL officials had formally requested an explanation from the club. Hocking explained that the waiver was developed because the player was keen to continue playing. He stated that the player’s representatives, including family and legal representation, were involved in the process, which was thorough and not rushed.
Kolodjashnij has played 11 matches this season, with his most recent appearance being in the round 18 defeat to GWS. He is listed as an emergency for Geelong’s upcoming game against Essendon on Saturday.
Club acknowledges failings
Geelong president Grant McCabe described the now-removed waiver clauses as a “fail” and initiated a club-wide investigation into why the document was not lodged with the AFL or the Players Association. The AFL, after facing public criticism, revealed it had sent the club a “please explain” request. The club had reportedly breached AFL rules by not lodging the document with head office in 2024, despite months of discussions involving the player and his family, and approval by the Geelong board.
McCabe, who was among the directors who approved the document in 2024, initially suggested the club’s actions aimed to provide an extra layer of care for the player. However, he later admitted that certain clauses in the document should never have been written or issued, calling them inappropriate. Regarding the non-lodgement of the contract, McCabe stated, “That’s where we failed. It was a fail for us and not a good look for the game.” He also acknowledged that CEO Hocking had used “a poor choice of words” when first questioned by the media about the waiver.
McCabe confirmed his presence when Hocking was initially questioned, noting that Hocking struggled to recall details rather than denying the story. He conceded that the club’s inability to explain the lack of paperwork lodgement appeared “sloppy.” McCabe has launched a review into the events and plans an emergency board meeting in the coming days. He mentioned that some staff involved were on leave. The AFL is expected to fine Geelong over the contract saga.
Source: abc.net.au
