SWFL 2023: Concerning trend of head injuries continues in SWFL women’s competition

South Bunbury’s wretched run of head injuries in the SWFL women’s competition continued on Sunday at the Harvey Recreation Ground. Two players, Kiarni Stevens and Abbey Bain, both left the field during the final quarter of the 8.7 (55) to 1.0 (6) loss against the Harvey Bulls. While Stevens was able to run off the ground to seek treatment, Bain was carried off the field by multiple trainers on a stretcher. After coming off second best in a legitimate contest midway during the term, South Bunbury defender Stevens — who wears a helmet — hit the ground hard following a collision. Once standing, Stevens appeared quite woozy, due to the impact of the incident. Despite this, the nearby umpire allowed play to continue and no official from either team initially checked on her welfare. Following pleas from multiple spectators, a Bulls water carrier ran alongside Stevens to make sure she exited the ground safely. South Bunbury coach Berend Kaaks confirmed Stevens came off the ground primarily due to concerns about her leg, although she mentioned to officials her head was also sore. After being looked over and given the all clear by the trainers, the defender returned and completed the game. A short time later, Bain was also bowled over during a tough contest, with play called to a halt prior to the stretcher coming out. “Following two hours at the Harvey Hospital, Abbey was discharged and went home safely,” Kaaks said. “Aside from a headache, she was fine.” According to the Tigers coach, Bain informed club officials in the rooms she wasn’t unconscious at any time, however elected to lay prone on the ground in the bid to minimise any potential unknown damage. South Bunbury didn’t receive a free kick following either incident. More than three Tigers players have suffered significant head injuries this season — the most serious involving Katelyn Towie, who incurred headaches for several weeks following her concussion in round three against Eaton.