Lonergan Kidney Guard

Whilst playing for the Geelong Football Club, August 2006, in round 21 against Melbourne at Skilled Stadium Tom Lonergan was kneed in the back while backing into a pack to contest a mark. His injury resulted in internal bleeding and the eventual removal of his right kidney. This injury almost cost him his life. As Tom recovered and decided his goal was to return to playing with the Cats we were asked by the medical team to develop a guard to protect his remaining left kidney. After a few versions we finally decided to make a neoprene belt with a holding pocket to slide in a protective plate. Since we have made many Kidney Guards for sportspeople coming form Portland to Perth. We ensure individuals understand that injury can still occur while wearing a brace and precaution must be considered.