Source :- PERTH NOW NEWS
Geelong’s chief executive Steve Hocking has denied the player at the centre of the concussion waiver scandal was “coerced” into signing the deal.
Hocking fronted the media on Friday afternoon after the Herald Sun on Thursday exposed the deal that removed the club from any future legal liability for the player.
The player has reportedly suffered multiple concussions and was told he had an increased likelihood of severe and permanent neurological damage.
Hocking said the player was “keen” to continue playing after his review by the concussion panel.
“It’s really important to note that the player was very well represented, both legally and by his immediate family,” Hocking said.
“(The player) still feels the care from the club is as strong as ever.
“We had a misstep.”
Hocking said the deal was struck after two months of negotiations.
“It was an extensive process, it was conducted over a roughly two-month period,” he said.
“The player’s representatives were involved, including family, legal representation as well, and that letter spelt out all of that entire process.
“It took time, it wasn’t rushed, as much as some people believe he may have been coerced into it. That is not the case.
“It was a thorough process, the care of the player and getting the player back to play was really important for the football club and for the player and his family.”
Hocking said coach Chris Scott did not know about the waiver but said he had since reached out to the player.
“The great thing about our coach is that he stays out of all medical decision-making,” Hocking said.
“It’s really important that’s the case, he’s got a team to coach and so from his point of view, no (he didn’t know).
“We keep him at arm’s length, he’s got a game to coach tomorrow, he’s focused on that and he’s made sure he’s got around the player.”
Hocking told reporters the AFL had issued a “please explain” to the Cats, despite confirming they were “satisfied” that Geelong would not be punished on Thursday night.
