AFL Chair Apologizes for Role in Geelong Concussion Contract Saga

AFL Commission chairman Craig Drummond has issued an apology concerning his involvement in a "complex and sensitive matter" involving a controversial concussion contract signed by Geelong player Jake Kolodjashnij. Drummond, who served as president of the Geelong Football Club in 2024 when the contract was established, admitted that the club "went too far" by including a waiver in an informed consent document that required Kolodjashnij to assume legal responsibility for any future brain trauma.

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This was an extremely complex and sensitive matter, and obligations to both the player and the club were very carefully considered by the Geelong board.

The contract, signed by Kolodjashnij two years prior, was reportedly intended to shield the club and its medical staff from future legal action related to head injuries. It is understood that Kolodjashnij's agent, the AFL Players Association (AFLPA), and the AFL itself were not informed of the contract at the time it was signed. This occurred despite Kolodjashnij passing an independent medical test, he was still considered at risk of complications from head injuries.

Drummond stated that player welfare was central to all discussions surrounding the contract. He acknowledged that while the player was medically cleared to play, the club engaged in extensive discussions with Kolodjashnij, his family, doctors, and insurers about the potential risks of returning to the game. He confirmed that the waiver would be removed and apologized for the mistakes made in the situation, including a "process failure" in lodging the agreement with the AFL and AFLPA.

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Regardless of the player's agreement, the club went too far in adding a waiver into an informed consent document and it will be removed.

The AFL is expected to fine the Geelong Cats over the contract saga. Drummond has recused himself from any AFL deliberations regarding the matter, emphasizing his commitment to transparency and proper procedure moving forward. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges and legal complexities surrounding player safety and concussion management in professional sports.

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I apologise for the mistakes made in this very complex situation.