‘Grown man’: AFL greats divided over Cats’ concussion waiver
AFL figures are debating the ethics of Geelong Football Club allowing player Jake Kolodjashnij to sign a waiver regarding concussion-related injuries. Former player Rory Sloane and commentator Matthew Lloyd offer conflicting views on whether such waivers prioritize player autonomy or undermine duty of care.
Why it matters
This highlights the growing tension between professional sports organizations' legal liability and their ethical responsibility to protect athletes from long-term brain trauma.
shares Share article As Geelong continues to face intense scrutiny over their decision to allow defender Jake Kolodjashnij to sign a waiver making him responsible for further concussion-related injuries, two clear sides of the argument have emerged.
Former Adelaide captain Rory Sloane has compared the situation to the end of his own career, when he retired in 2024 due to concerns about a significant eye injury.
Jake Kolodjashnij of the Cats leaves the field with medical staff during the 2024 season. AFL Photos via Getty Images
Sloane suffered a number of eye injuries across his career, including a torn retina and a fractured eye socket and despite training and looking ready to play for the Crows in 2024, he was told the risk of a significant eye injury was too great and he ultimately retired.
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