• Darek Sokol-Randell, Mario Pasquale Rotundo, Gregory Tierney, Conor Deasy, and Michael D Cusimano.
• University College Cork, School of Medicine, Gaol Walk, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College, Cork, T12 YN60, Ireland. 117105165@umail.ucc.ie.
• Ir J Med Sci. 2021 May 1; 190 (2): 787792787-792.

BackgroundSport-related concussion (SRC) is a potential issue within Gaelic Football. Therefore, it is essential that concussion management guidelines are adhered to.Hypothesis/PurposeThe aim of this study is to determine if potential concussive events (PCEs) in the Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) National Football League (NFL) are assessed in accordance with GAA concussion guidelines and compare this to other sports.MethodsA descriptive video analysis approach was undertaken to identify PCEs throughout two seasons of play. Subsequent assessment, return to play (RTP) decisions, and signs of concussion were evaluated.ResultsA total of 242 PCEs were identified over 111 matches. Most PCEs (87.2%, n = 211) were assessed by medical personnel. However, 187 (88.6%) of assessments were under 2 min in duration. Of the 242 PCEs, 189 (78.1%) returned to play after on-pitch assessment, and 12 (5.0%) were removed following a PCE. Sixty-one (25.2%) players sustaining a PCE demonstrated one or more signs of concussion, of which 9 (14.8%) were removed from play.ConclusionIn the GAA NFL, PCEs are often briefly assessed but rarely result in player removal. Introduction of video incident analysis and concussion substitutions, as in other sports, may reduce the long-term burden of SRC on Gaelic Football players.

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