Concussion is one of the most misunderstood and under-reported injuries in Australian sport. And no — it doesn’t always mean a knockout. Sometimes it’s subtle: a player with a blank stare, a stumble, or simply saying, “I don’t feel right.”
Ignore these signs, and you risk long-term brain damage, delayed recovery, or worse.
What Is a Concussion?
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury (TBI) caused by a direct hit to the head or a body impact that forces the brain to move within the skull. Symptoms can appear immediately or develop hours later.
There is no such thing as a “minor” concussion. Every case should be taken seriously.
Who’s Most at Risk?
- 🧒 Junior athletes – developing brains take longer to heal
- 🏉 Contact sport participants – rugby, footy, netball, basketball, soccer, hockey
- 🤕 Athletes in non-contact sports – falls and collisions still occur
- 🔁 Players with previous concussions – risk increases with each injury
How to Spot a Concussion
Common symptoms include:
- Headache, dizziness, blurred vision
- Nausea or vomiting
- Confusion, memory loss, or foggy thinking
- Mood changes, irritability, or fatigue
- Balance issues or sensitivity to light and sound
Red Flags — Call 000 Immediately
- Loss of consciousness
- Seizures or convulsions
- Severe or worsening headache
- Slurred speech or unsteady walking
- Extreme drowsiness, unusual behaviour, or inability to wake
🏥 What the AIS Guidelines Recommend
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) Concussion in Sport Guidelines are the national gold standard. Here’s what you need to know:
- Recognise and Remove
If a concussion is suspected, the player must be removed immediately.
No return to play on the same day. Use tools like the Concussion Recognition Tool 5 (CRT5) to assist sideline decisions.
- Rest and Recover
The first 24 to 48 hours should involve relative rest, both physically and mentally.
Avoid screens, schoolwork, and physical exertion during this period.
- Seek Medical Clearance
All players must be assessed by a healthcare provider trained in concussion management.
No return to training or play without formal medical clearance.
- Follow a Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) Protocol
This is a step-by-step process involving:
- Symptom-limited activity
- Light aerobic exercise
- Sport-specific drills
- Non-contact training
- Full-contact practice
- Return to competition
If symptoms recur at any stage, drop back to the previous level and seek guidance.
For full details, visit the AIS Concussion Guidelines.
The Bottom Line
Concussion is not just “part of the game.” It’s a serious injury that requires immediate action, rest, and expert management.
Whether you’re a coach, parent, or teammate, your duty of care matters. Recognise the signs. Take action. And always remember:
“If in doubt, sit them out.”
At First Aid in Sport, our sports trainers in Sydney are trained in first aid for sports events, including concussion recognition and response. We’re here to help keep your team safe, informed, and protected.