Police say the officer tried to break up a fight between about 10 spectators at the game between the Woolgoolga Seahorses and Orara Valley Axemen at Woolgoolga oval yesterday afternoon.

She dropped her portable radio and was picking it up when she was attacked.

She collapsed and lost consciousness, and was taken to Coffs Harbour Hospital for observation before being released.

A 21-year-old Coffs Harbour man was charged with assault and was granted bail. He will appear at Coffs Harbour Local Court on September 29.

Inspector Tony Milner from Coffs Harbour police said the officer's injuries were not serious.

But Chief Inspector Shane Cribb from Coffs Harbour police said: "Any violence towards police will not be tolerated and those responsible can be assured that appropriate action will be taken.

"I wish to acknowledge and praise the officers involved in the incident for their swift action in defusing a volatile situation quickly," he said.

The Axemen won the match.

- with Georgina Robinson