STRATHMORE FC is playing a very important role in gaining improved data in the measurement of head injuries and concussion.
Australian company Hit IQ has developed a mouthguard designed to detect on-field head impacts and generate data for review.
Strathmore Senior and Reserves players have been wearing the mouthguards (the Nexus A9) since the start of the season and will continue to do so for the remainder of the year.
The product is currently being studied by concussion expert, Associate Professor Alan Pearce PHD in conjunction with La Trobe University.
New recruit and former North Melbourne star Michael Firrito told essendondfl.com.au he and his club are proud to be part of such an important initiative.
“We know it’s for a great cause and it’s a fantastic thing for Strathmore to be involved in,” Firrito said.
“To be able to help in a small way is really good and with Strathmore leading the way, it’s great for the club as well.”
Throughout Firrito’s career, concussion awareness has grown significantly and while much is still yet to be learned, he’s witnessed first-hand the effects it has on players from all levels of footy.
“When I first started in the early 2000s, concussion was a little bit frowned upon… something you just sort of fought through and got back out on the ground,” he explained.
“Fifteen years later, it’s really at the forefront.
“You cop a head knock and we know the ramifications, so the players are much more aware and they know what’s going on.
“Even at this level the boys are fit, they’re hard and they’re strong, so the impact is still really high.
“It’s a big issue in sport and society because when you get away from footy, these guys have all got personal lives and jobs and kids and family, so it’s great that we’re really looking into it.”
