North Queensland Cowboys star Chad Townsend has revealed the rigorous process he underwent after suffering a concussion during a recent NRL match, offering fans a rare insight into the league's player safety protocols.
The Incident That Sparked Concern
The experienced halfback found himself at the centre of attention after a heavy collision left him dazed during play. "I knew immediately something wasn't right," Townsend admitted, describing the moment of impact that led to his removal from the game.
Inside the Concussion Assessment
Medical staff swiftly implemented the NRL's Head Injury Assessment (HIA) protocol:
- Initial on-field evaluation by team doctors
- Comprehensive cognitive testing in the dressing room
- Memory recall assessments
- Balance and coordination checks
"The process is incredibly thorough," Townsend explained. "They leave no stone unturned when it comes to player welfare."
The Road to Recovery
Following the incident, Townsend entered the NRL's mandatory 11-day stand-down period for concussed players. He detailed his rehabilitation:
- Complete physical and cognitive rest for 48 hours
- Gradual reintroduction to light exercise
- Progressive increase in training intensity
- Final medical clearance before return to play
"The most important thing is not rushing back," the playmaker emphasised. "Your brain needs time to heal properly."
Player Perspectives on Safety
Townsend's experience highlights the evolving approach to head injuries in professional rugby. "The game has changed dramatically in how we handle these situations," he noted, praising the NRL's commitment to player welfare.
As concussion awareness grows across contact sports, Townsend's candid account provides valuable perspective on the realities of modern rugby league and the measures in place to protect its athletes.
