The Rugby Football League is considering pausing plans to reduce the legal height for tackles in professional rugby league from above the armpit downwards in 2025 after observing a significant decrease in head contact incidents this year. Originally introduced as measures at amateur levels, these changes are intended to lessen concussions among players, based on recommendations by the sport's health committee.
According to recent data presented to clubs, there has been a 75% decline in such incidents within Super League compared to historical figures since stricter rules against head-to-head contact were enforced earlier this year. These new measures led to an increase in player suspensions and controversy due to red card issuances.
The RFL's Robert Hicks, addressing the Guardian, suggests that these improvements are a result of enhanced coaching methods rather than simply altering laws. The reduction in concussions has been significantly attributed to the use of instrumented mouthguards, which assess injury risks. Data indicates tackling should ideally be within the armpit to waist range for safety.
The league proposes that if this positive trend continues through the remainder of the season, they will not alter the current regulations and may advise against reducing the height of legal tackles. Hicks emphasizes the importance of maintaining a focus on long-term player protection while considering these potential changes. The final decision regarding halting the professional level rule change would likely be decided at an RFL board meeting in October, following recommendations from the brain health committee's assessment.
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