UmpiringWords of Wisdom From WA Umpiring Great
Mark Readings
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17 Feb 2026
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Round one of the 2022 WAFL season will mark a historical move in concussion safety of players, with the implementation of the Blue Card rule.
In a nation first, the introduction of the Blue Card will see players with suspected concussions or a head knock as a result of a reportable offence, removed by umpires for a minimum of 15 minutes to undergo SCAT 5 testing by medical staff.
After successfully completing its trial period in the WAFL preseason, the WAFC has formalised the rule to be implemented in to both the men’s and the women’s games.
To ensure no disadvantage occurs, the player responsible for the reportable offence and suspected injury will also be shown the Blue Card and sidelined for 15 minutes.
To help report these incidents, the WAFC has created an online concussion reporting tool which will be used to monitor all concussions occurring at training and during games.
The Blue Card will be implemented into the WAFLW competition after the mid-season bye.
The WAFC is committed to ensuring player health and safety is always paramount and the Blue Card ensures players are managed carefully in these situations.
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WA Football acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the many lands across Western Australia where we train, play, and come together through football. We pay our respects to Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all First Nations people. We recognise the deep and continuing contribution First Nations peoples make to our game and our communities.
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