Whats involved - Love Your Brain

A safer future for sport

Your club is participating in a concussion study during the 2026 season.

This clinical trial is designed to assess the safety and effectiveness of a new medication developed to help protect brain cells and reduce potential damage following concussion.

You are invited to participate.

What's Involved?

If you choose to enrol, the process is as follows:

1. Game day head knock

If you have a head knock, you will be assessed by your trainer at the ground.

2. Trainer suspects concussion

If your Club Trainer suspects a concussion has occurred on game day, transfer to Sportsmed will be coordinated.

3. Off to Sportsmed

At Sportsmed, you will have a full medical assessment (SCAT 6) by a qualified Sports Physician.

4. Concussed? Doc says yes or no.

If concussed you automatically enter the League’s mandatory minimum 21 day concussion recovery protocol and will be invited to participate in the study.

5. If yes, you can choose the Trial

If you are concussed, you can choose to participate in the Clinical Trial.

6. Off to Royal Adelaide

You will be then be transferred to The Royal Adelaide Hospital.

7. Eligibility process

At the RAH, a medical doctor will explain the study, determine your eligibility, and answer any questions you may have before obtaining your final consent to participate.

8. Clean up, bed and a feed

Once enrolled, you will be admitted for overnight monitoring. You will have access to shower facilities, clean clothing, a meal, and a comfortable environment to rest.

9. IV while you sleep

During your stay, several routine tests will be conducted—including cognitive assessments, blood tests, and monitoring of vital signs. The study medication will be administered by intravenous infusion while you sleep.

10. Check out in the morning

You will be discharged the following morning.

11. Check ups on days 3, 7, 14, 21

To support your recovery and the trial process, you will be required to attend a 20-minute followup visit at The RAH the next Monday, and again each Friday for the subsequent three weeks.

12. Participant Compensation of $1500

In recognition of your time and commitment, a remuneration of $1,500 will be provided upon successful completion of the study.

13. Ongoing Recovery Support

A member of the Spark Concussion Care Team will remain in regular contact to support your recovery throughout the minimum 21-day rehabilitation period.

For FAQs and Regulatory Approval information on the Clinical Trial, download the full PDF.