Geelong Cats Board Holds Crisis Meeting Over Secret Concussion Deal

The Geelong Cats are preparing their response to the AFL's formal query concerning a secret concussion agreement made with player Jake Kolodjashnij. The club board convened an emergency meeting to strategize their reply, which is due by the end of Tuesday, August 11.

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Clearly there were some parts that we buggered up as a club. We can be better.

This situation has intensified speculation about the futures of Geelong CEO Steve Hocking and AFL chairman Craig Drummond, who were in their respective roles when the deal was struck two years ago. Kolodjashnij signed a waiver, accepting legal responsibility for future brain trauma, to shield the club and its medical staff from potential lawsuits.

Club captain Patrick Dangerfield admitted the club had made mistakes, stating, "Clearly there were some parts that we buggered up as a club. We can be better." However, he strongly defended CEO Steve Hocking, calling him a man of high integrity. Cats president Grant McCabe issued a statement acknowledging the challenging time and affirming the club's commitment to providing players with the highest standard of care and support.

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The board has met this morning to discuss our response to the AFL's letter. That will be submitted by end of day Tuesday, 11 August.

In a radio interview, Hocking defended the club's actions, suggesting he wouldn't change much, while acknowledging that "one or two per cent" might not have been handled correctly. Drummond also released a statement apologizing for the deal, adding he would recuse himself from the AFL's assessment process.

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As a leader it's really important to take ownership and just lead through this. It's not easy to do, but I wouldn't change too much, we are a really good football club.