South Africa Rugby intend to discuss the possible implementation of experimental changes to the law to reduce the height of the legal tackle in amateur rugby, after the announcement World rugby happy monday
The global governing body for sports has recommended reduced grip height below the sternum (middle of the chest) in the community game. If approved by the International Federation Council in May, national unions will be given the opportunity to take part in the global trial.
School and club level
SA Rugby said they will now be consulting with their member unions and the South African School Rugby Association (SASRA) about their views on the proposal prior to a possible rollout of the trial in South Africa. If the test were rolled out in South Africa, it would only apply to school and club play.
World Rugby said the proposal followed extensive analysis and consultation with unions. It reflected the core mission of World Rugby to create a global sport for all, aiming to improve the player experience in order to continue to increase interaction across the world.
The governing body stated that trials conducted since 2019 in community games in France, South Africa, Georgia and Fiji have shown positive results in terms of player safety by reducing headbutts and concussions, and overall gaming experience by increasing balls in the game. game stream.
Increase in game numbers
“Community play is the lifeblood of our sport, representing 99 percent of our competitors, and the proposed grip height adjustment has already provided a positive form of play and game experience results,” said Bill Beaumont, Chairman of World Rugby.
“This is essential for the future of the sport. The data we have, in particular from France, shows that reducing the grip height not only makes the game safer, but also increases the number of players. This should be the goal for everyone involved in our game.”
Mark Alexander, President of SA Rugby, said: “Changes that increase fun and participation while improving safety are to be welcomed, and we will now discuss these proposals with those most closely associated with running the amateur game, our member unions and schools. .
“Our sport is moving in the right direction with such initiatives, but when, where and how we are ready to implement them in South Africa needs to be carefully considered. If they are implemented here, we must do so clearly and with full support.”
Player Protection
World Rugby stated that a thorough independent study showed that 74 percent of all concussions are related to this tackle. Reducing the grip height protected both players.
“The carrier ball is protected directly because head contact leading to injury can be greatly reduced, while the tackler is protected because his head will be in safer proximity to the torso/upper body of the player with the ball,” said World Rigby. in a statement.
“Hackles where the tackler’s head is in close proximity to the ball carrier’s body above the sternum are more than four times more likely to result in head injury, so lowering the height of the tackle will benefit both players.”
Alexander said the recommendation would be considered at the next meeting of the South African Rugby Union Amateur Rugby Committee.