1. AFL Coaching Courses 2014
Lawrie Woodman
Coaching Development Manager

2. Australian Football
Spectacular Game
With an Element of Risk

3. Australian Football
Attractive Environment
Where People want to be

4. Coaching, Umpiring & Management
AFL EXPECTATIONS
The game is conducted at all levels in a quality environment and as safely as possible
Good people (volunteers & paid), appropriately trained, are the key to promote quality environments

5. Coaches

6. Concussion
A mild brain injury caused by trauma that results in temporary dysfunction of the brain.
Trauma can be direct (blow to the head) or indirect (whiplash).
Generally causes symptoms and temporary loss of brain skills (memory, thinking abilities, balance)

7. Concussion Symptoms & Signs
Loss of balance
Irritability
Pale complexion
Poor concentration
Slow or altered verbal skills
Inappropriate behaviour
Mental confusion and memory loss
Not feeling your usual self!
Symptoms
Headache
Nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain
Dizziness
Altered or lost vision
Fatigue
Ringing in the ears
Memory disturbance
Loss of consciousness

8. Concussion Management
Player welfare is the critical element
Suspect concussion in any player with one or more of the symptoms after a knock to the head
Remove the player from play and refer for medical evaluation
Ensure the player has received medical clearance before allowing them to return to the game or a graded training program

9. Concussion Management

10. Concussion Management Resources

11. Concussion Management Resources

12. Coaches’ Responsibilities
A major responsibility is a duty of care to players (both teams) and their welfare
In accordance with the AFL Coaches’ Code of Conduct, coaches must not put undue pressure on medical staff, trainers or players in regards to returning to play
Be familiar with and follow the AFL’s Concussion Management Guidelines

13. Positive Steps for Coaches
Coach your players to play within the “Spirit of the Game”
Familiarise yourself with and follow the AFL’s Guidelines
Ensure your club has supplies of AFL Resources
Ensure all relevant match personnel have the same understanding
Display the AFL Concussion Poster in clubrooms
All medical support staff have SCAT3 or pocket CRT cards
Educate players and parents about concussion and other safety policies
Provide player/parent handouts on match day

14. Coaching Resources

15. AFL Basic Trainers Course
EMERGENCY RESPONSE COORDINATOR- ERC

16. Summary Player welfare is the critical element
Suspect concussion in any player with one or more of the symptoms or signs after a knock to the head
Remove from the game and refer the player for medical evaluation – Player must not return to the game
Ensure the player has received medical clearance before allowing them to return to the game or a graded training program
If in doubt, sit them out

17. QUESTIONS?