The Geelong Football Club has been fined $140,000 by the AFL for including a controversial concussion clause in Jake Kolodjashnij's contract and failing to submit it for approval. This sanction also includes an additional $40,000 that was suspended from a previous penalty related to third-party payments.

Details of the Fine

The fine stems from Geelong's decision to add a "voluntary assumption of risk" clause to Kolodjashnij's contract, which required him to take legal responsibility for any future head injuries. This agreement was made following an "amber" assessment from the AFL's independent concussion panel, which placed the player's future in the hands of both Kolodjashnij and the club. Despite the severity of the breach, the club will not face further sanctions beyond the financial penalty.

Club's Response and Future Implications

Geelong's CEO, Steve Hocking, initially referred to the situation as a “misstep,” while AFL chairman Craig Drummond, who was president of Geelong at the time the contract was signed, has not faced any penalties. The AFL commission, excluding Drummond, convened to determine the appropriate sanctions after the club had initially avoided punishment. Geelong argued that they acted in good faith and had communicated with the AFL regarding the contract, but ultimately failed to submit the final agreement.

As for Kolodjashnij, he has returned to training this week, although it remains uncertain if he has been cleared to participate in games. The 2022 premiership player has not played at either the AFL or VFL level since the details of his contract became public. After a period away from training during the controversy, he was back on the field as Geelong prepares for the upcoming finals.