Doctors Prompt Schools To Ban Tackling In Rugby Games, Should Schools Comply?

Rugby is a popular sport in the U.K. and while it can offer a variety of benefits like character building and physical health, many are raising concerns over the contact sport. As it turns out, more than 70 doctors and school officials have been calling for schools to ban tackling in the "high-impact collision sport," as they could lead to life-long problems in children. 

Call For No-Tackling In Rugby

BBC reported that over 70 doctors and academics agree and request the banning of tackling in rugby matches in the U.K. and Irish schools. In their open letter, they cited that the "high-impact collision sport" that includes tackling may affect the children in the long run.

The petitioners said that tackling is dangerous for players under 18 and the risks are high. They are requesting for schools to adapt non-contact rugby, to avoid tackling.

Advocates Say Otherwise

However, rugby advocates may disagree because according to them this game helps students build their character. In fact, per the report, many secondary schools in the U.K. include contact rugby in their physical education curriculum from age 11, and it is mandatory.

"Contact rugby helps build character. They are putting their body on the line in a match. The risk factor is part of it," said John Cross, PE teacher at Congleton High School in Cheshire. "They enjoy the contact element. There is a 'boy factor' - it's partly about developing masculinity. They would be more likely to be bored by touch rugby."

Cross believes that the challenges that contact rugby offers through tackling will help students grow. However, the medical professionals disagree, "repeat concussions and cognitive impairment and an association with depression, memory loss and diminished verbal abilities."

Rugby Is A Risky Sport

The request for the banning of tackling arises following the Rugby Football Union's programme of introducing rugby to million of children in state schools. Prof. Allyson Pollock believes that tackling in rugby is risky. She said that 90 percent of the injuries resulted in over seven days of absences.

Meanwhile, Health24 reported that the head injuries among rugby players may lead to brain decline. One rugby player, who had been playing the game most of his life, died due to the said condition.

Meanwhile, former England rugby player, Matt Perry has something else to say.about tackling in rugby, "I took a risk when I started rugby at seven and I'm afraid at school level if that tackle is taken out we've lost one of the great games and one of the great cultural games." Brian Moore thinks the same way and stressed that obesity is more dangerous than rugby.

Do you want schools to ban tackling in rugby matches? What's your stand about tackling? Is it safe or not? Share your thoughts below.