Geelong are keeping Chris Scott out of the fallout from their concussion controversy as the Cats coach homes in on claiming a top-six berth in a clash with struggling Essendon.
The Cats on Friday received a 'please explain' notice from the AFL over their controversial secret deal with an undisclosed player who has a history of concussions.
Geelong then released a statement on Friday evening on behalf of Defender Jake Kolodjashnij, who said he appreciated the efforts made to keep his identity secret, but he wanted to address the situation personally.
"I participated fully in the AFL's independent concussion panel process, respected its independence, and was comfortable with the outcome. I have continued playing AFL football since," Kolodjashnij said.
"What disappoints me most is that my private medical information has been made public. Everyone deserves the right to keep their confidential medical information private.
"I want to thank my family, the AFLPA, my manager, my teammates and the football club for their support over the past 24 hours.
"I am healthy, feeling good, and focused on playing my role for the team for the remainder of the season."
In 2024, Geelong struck a secret agreement with Kolodjashnij, who, having suffered multiple concussions, took on legal responsibility for future brain trauma in a bid to exonerate the club and its medical staff from court action down the line.
Chief executive Steve Hocking had earlier on Friday taken responsibility for not lodging the waiver in Kolodjashnij's contract with the AFL and AFLPA and said coach Chris Scott had been kept out of the decision-making process.
When asked if Scott had been privy to the contract, Hocking said: "The great thing about our coach is he stays out of all medical decision-making, and it's really important that's the case.
"He's got a team to coach, and so from his point of view, no.
"We keep him at arm's length, as far as that goes."
When asked about Scott's reaction when the news came to light, Hocking said: "Well, he's got a game to coach tomorrow, and he's focused on that, and he's made sure he's got round the player."
The Cats currently sit seventh, in the wildcard places, but just four points off fourth ahead of Saturday's game at GMHBA Stadium.
A predicted win over the battling Bombers is expected to keep them firmly in the race for a top-six berth, while they are not yet out of the hunt for a top-four spot.
It is the first time Geelong have faced the Bombers since Essendon sacked Scott's twin brother Chris, with interim Dean Solomon - who won't seek the full-time role - now at the helm.
Both teams made changes for the evening clash.
Geelong tall Sam De Koning replaces young ruck Mitch Edwards (managed)
The Bombers, last on the ladder, have regained Jye Caldwell and called upon young ruckman Vigo Visentini and utility Archie Perkins, with Angus Clarke (concussion), Nick Bryan (finger) and Harrison Jones (omitted) out.
