Abstract
Concussion in sport represents a major issue worldwide. One component that has received little attention is the factors that influence decision making around concussion identification and management. This study examined the factors that influence player, coach, and medical team decisions regarding the removal of Australian Rules Football (AFL) players from the game following a suspected concussion. Using the critical decision method, participants from an Amateur AFL club were asked to reflect on their decision-making during situations where they had either suffered or managed a concussion. The findings demonstrate that the identification and management of concussion in amateur AFL is influenced by a myriad of factors from across the overall AFL system. This includes factors related to the game, players, and coaches and also factors related to assessment tools, concussion guidelines and social influences. The implications for the practical management of concussion in both AFL and other sports are discussed.