Should Jude play this weekend?

[Matty10]

Here are Doc Gibb's comments. Sounds like he has a strong claim to have some expertise in the matter.

Concussion an AFL grey matter | Herald Sun

It would be hard to argue with a medical professional from a lay position, but nevertheless there is still a debate within the medical fraternity about the issue. In the last season of the NFL changes were made to more strictly monitor the effects of concussion and also the rest required.

Lawmakers Grill Former N.F.L. Doctor on Brain Injuries - NYTimes.com

The other problem that the NFL faced was that many players would simply lie about some of the problems that they had after suffering from concussion (such as having headaches, instances of memory loss etc). All players want to play - each and every week.

Remember those comments that Jude made a couple of weeks ago on the footy show - it may have been tounge-in-cheek, but it does provide a small insight into the mentality of a player who would literally give his all for the club.

I would not have a problem if a rule was introduced that made it mandatory for a player to sit the following week out after a concussion.

[hot potato]

I hope he wears a full face helmet on Sunday.

hp

[Matty10]

There is a follow-up to the issue in The Age today: All club doctors to audit their concussion protocols

[smasher]

I really think Jude should be rested this week.I know it's a big game and all but the long term effects on these head knocks are not known yet and from what I saw last week he should not have gone back out.I have seen alot of concussion people at my work and it can have very serious consequences.

[Hartijon]

I really think Jude should be rested this week.I know it's a big game and all but the long term effects on these head knocks are not known yet and from what I saw last week he should not have gone back out.I have seen alot of concussion people at my work and it can have very serious consequences.

The health of your brain for the rest of your life is more important than any football match.A pre-cautionary one week off is still a good idea.Give the brain time to fully recover before it gets another hit.

[rojo]

There is a follow-up to the issue in The Age today: All club doctors to audit their concussion protocols

It is good to hear that the AFL Medical Association is reviewing the situation re the handling of players with concussion. Despite all the assurances being given about there being no long term effects, I still have some concern for Jude.