Geelong was fined 140,000 AUD by the AFL for entering an unauthorised concussion waiver involving defender Jake Kolodjashnij and for failing to lodge the agreement with the AFL and AFL Players’ Association.

Of the 140,000 AUD sanction, 40,000 AUD carries over from a previously suspended penalty tied to a 2025 breach of third‑party player payments.

The waiver followed an AFL independent concussion panel’s amb er reading, leaving Kolodjashnij’s playing future to the player and club to decide.

The piece urges ongoing ethical reform in concussion management, beyond mere compliance, to protect player welfare and trust.

AFL commission stated there was no intention to conceal the document or mislead parties, emphasising that player health and safety are paramount.

Public reaction and future commentary are anticipated, with the AFLPA, medical experts, and other stakeholders expected to shape ongoing policy discussions.

AFL Commission chair Craig Drummond signalled a need for significant discussions with the AFLPA and clubs to establish clearer protocols, noting the sanction addressed more than lodgment rules.

Geelong’s president at the time, Craig Drummond, was not involved in the commission’s consideration, and Steve Hocking’s declaration that Kolodjashnij was not coerced was deemed true.

An independent review found Geelong did not intend to conceal the agreement but highlighted issues around informed consent and health and safety responsibilities in contact sport.

The piece discusses the dilemma of returning a player with an inconclusive concussion finding, the risk of professional indemnity pressures on doctors, and the broader duties of governing bodies to establish clear protocols.

Connor O’Sullivan praised Kolodjashnij’s resilience and leadership during the scrutiny period.

An external administrator defended involvement in the concussion process and the privacy of medical information, stressing continued health readiness for the season.