- “It’s a no brainer”: AFL player Caleb Daniel highlights world leading helmet testing after visiting Virginia Tech Helmet Lab
- Video assets from the Virginia Tech visit available for download [here]
Adelaide, February 3, 2026 - Australian sports technology company SWAARM Global has welcomed the AFL’s release of its first Australian Football Headgear Standards, while urging players, parents and sporting organisations to look beyond minimum requirements when it comes to protecting the brain.
The AFL has acknowledged the new standards represent a minimum requirement only and confirmed further research is needed to assess the real-world effectiveness of headgear, with no plans to mandate its use.
SWAARM Global CEO Simon Austerberry said the standards are a positive first step but should not be mistaken for best practice.
“We welcome the AFL taking its first formal step toward headgear standards, and that matters,” Austerberry said.
“But it’s important to be clear. These standards don’t tell players or parents how well a piece of headgear performs. They only confirm it meets a baseline. When it comes to reducing concussion risk, minimums simply aren’t enough.”
SWAARM Global headgear is independently tested at the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab, which has conducted helmet and headgear testing for more than sixteen years. Its globally recognised five-star rating system ranks products based on real performance outcomes, providing clear and comparable safety information for consumers.
North Melbourne Kangaroos player Caleb Daniel, one of the AFL’s most recognisable headgear wearers, recently visited the Virginia Tech Helmet Lab during the off season.
“I switched to SWAARM’s headgear last year knowing it was the best out there,” Daniel said.
“In contact sport you’re going to get head knocks, so why wouldn’t you try to reduce the risk by wearing high performing headgear. It’s a no brainer for me.”
Daniel has worn headgear since the age of six, encouraged by his mother, a nurse, to prioritise head protection.
“I’ve never gone without it. It’s just part of my kit. Like putting your mouthguard in or pulling on your boots.”
Austerberry said SWAARM Global’s commitment to independent testing reflects a belief that athletes deserve more than compliance.
“When it comes to protecting the brain, the goal shouldn’t be to meet the minimum,” he said.
It should be to deliver the best possible protection available anywhere in the world.”
SWAARM Global points to its eight years of research and development and is urging players, parents and sporting organisations to choose headgear supported by rigorous, globally trusted, independent testing.
More information can be found at:
SWAARM Global: https://www.swaarmglobal.com
Virginia Tech Helmet Lab Ratings: https://www.helmet.beam.vt.edu
Ends
For more information, contact:
Tim Ashworth
- 0402 922 608
[email protected]
