Rugby's Hidden Risks: A Closer Look at Injuries in High School Rugby

Rugby is a thrilling sport, but it's not without its dangers. High school students playing rugby in Canada face different risks depending on the format of the game. 7s and 15s rugby have different rules and structures. 7s is faster-paced and more continuous, while 15s has more strategic play and set pieces. This can affect how often players get injured or concussed. To get a clearer picture, researchers used video analysis. They watched games and tracked what happened. This method is useful because it lets you see exactly what's going on. It helps to identify patterns and trends that might not be obvious otherwise. The study found that the type of rugby played matters. In 7s, players might get injured more often. This could be because the game is faster and more intense. In 15s, there might be more concussions. This could be due to the physical nature of the game and the strategic play. Gender also plays a role. Male and female players experience injuries differently. This could be due to differences in physical strength, technique, and how the game is played. For example, males might experience more contact injuries, while females might experience more non-contact injuries. The findings suggest that coaches and trainers need to be aware of these differences. They should tailor their training and safety measures to the specific format of the game and the needs of their players. This could help reduce the risk of injuries and concussions. After all, the goal is to keep players safe while they enjoy the sport. Rugby is a tough sport, and injuries are part of the game. But understanding the risks can help make it safer for everyone. By knowing the differences between 7s and 15s, and between male and female players, we can take steps to protect players and keep them in the game. It's important to remember that rugby is a team sport. Everyone has a role to play in keeping players safe. This includes coaches, trainers, and even the players themselves. By working together, we can make rugby a safer and more enjoyable experience for everyone.