Written evidence submitted by The Rugby Football League
DCMS Select Committee Inquiry into Concussion in Sport
Response from the RUGBY FOOTBALL LEAGUE
- The Rugby Football League (RFL) has protocols across the game in relation to concussion (covering recognition, removal and rehabilitation) which are consistent with equivalent sports and, where applicable, in line with the Berlin Conference Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport.
- The RFL’s protocols have evolved as a result of increased knowledge and understanding of concussion.
- The RFL’s protocols differentiate between levels of the game to reflect the different resources (including medical) available.
- The RFL will continue to seek to monitor and follow best practice (based on research and scientific evidence) in relation to concussions and head contact.
- Education of all involved at all levels in all sports (directly or indirectly) is essential: the RFL is very supportive of a centralised, cross sports, education campaign. The RFL believes that, amongst others, this should cover participants, players, coaches, teachers, medical practitioners and key influencers within sporting environments.
- The RFL will continue to be guided by broader scientific evidence and undertake scientific research to inform decisions. Where applicable, this will distinguish between men’s and women’s Rugby League.
- The RFL believes that collaboration between sports is important to ensure that the benefits of research projects are maximised. Collaboration between sports will ensure that evidence is developed in a timely manner, with sufficient data to draw robust conclusions from findings. Given the differing financial status of sports, broader financial support for research, would likely facilitate research in a more collaborative and cohesive manner. This includes having:
- In relation to all our work, we will continue (in conjunction with RL Cares – the sport’s charity) to prioritise the welfare of existing and former players.
- More generally, team sports have been demonstrated to be of benefit to children and Rugby League has been shown to have a material positive social impact on Lower Socio-Economic Group communities. In making decisions it is important that the benefits and advantages of sports are given appropriate weighting.
- The RFL believes there is a role for the Government:
This response is submitted by the Rugby Football League (RFL).
The RFL is the Governing Body for Rugby League in the UK and is responsible for governing, protecting and growing the sport and Rugby League participants from the grassroots game to the England national teams. Further information about the RFL can be found at: www.rugby-league.com. The RFL is responsible for setting the regulatory framework for the whole of Rugby League.
All players are required to register with the RFL; however, where applicable, are employed by individual clubs.
Rugby League is played in various formats. The most common is the 13 a-side game, which is played at youth and adult levels, by male and female players.
A 13 a-side Rugby League match requires players to cover 4000 – 8000 m (e.g., women’s Super League and International (Emmonds et al., 2020), and men’s Super League (Dalton-Barron et al., 2020)), at low and high intensities. Rugby League players also undertake tackles and ball-carries during a match. Forwards and backs (the playing positions in Rugby League) are involved in on average 25 and 13 tackles per match, and both playing positions are involved in on average 11 ball carries per match (Naughton et al., 2020).
Parts of the RFL’s regulatory framework distinguish between the ‘professional game’ and the ‘community game’.
From a regulatory perspective, the professional game includes the top 3 tiers of the Men’s Game (Super League, Championship and League 1) and the Academy and Scholarship competitions; however, in some areas, there is also a distinction between the Super League and other tiers: this reflects the different resources available. The community game covers all other levels of the game.
Historically the Women’s Game has been entirely governed by the community game framework; however, to reflect the growth in the Women’s game over the last few years, in relation to the Women’s Super League, the regulations for the Women’s Super League are beginning to evolve to incorporate aspects of the professional game framework, including medical standards and the disciplinary function.
The Laws of the Game (which apply to all tiers of the Game) include that a player is guilty of Misconduct if he: (a) trips, kicks or strikes another player; or (b) when effecting or attempting to effect a tackle makes contact with the head or neck of an opponent intentionally, recklessly or carelessly; or (c) uses any dangerous throw when effecting a tackle; or (d) uses a shoulder charge on an opponent; or (e) behaves in any way contrary to the true spirit of the game (NB. this includes dangerous contact).
Part of the rationale for the above Laws is to seek to protect the health of players. The RFL has a range of systems and processes in place to seek to ensure that the Laws are followed and/or that any breaches are appropriately sanctioned.
On-Field Policies
During a match, any breach of the above Laws, could be sanctioned by the Referee with options ranging from a penalty to a player being temporarily (yellow card) or permanently (red card) removed from the field of play.
The Laws of the Game are supported by On-Field policies that provide a framework for implementing the Laws in given situations.
The On-Field policies provide that in more serious cases of foul play a player may be either temporarily or permanently removed from the field of play: with the following being those listed most relevant to head contact.
- High tackles with direct contact with the head or neck which are deemed forceful.
- Dangerous throws in which the head or neck of the attacking player make forceful contact with the ground.
- Shoulder charges which make forceful contact with the head or neck of the attacking player or make forceful movement of the head or neck of the attacking player (whiplash).
- Crusher tackles in which a defending player has a grip/hold of the attacking player with both arms and applies unnecessary pressure or force to the head/neck/spinal column of the player.
In the professional game, the referee is also empowered to assist with the smooth operation of the concussion rules (see section c. below) including that:
- Where a player refuses to follow the instructions of the medical staff to leave the field of play, the medical staff may ask the referee to instruct the player to leave the field.
- If a match official has concerns that a player may have suffered a concussion he may stop play and call the medical team onto the field of play to express his concerns and ask them to examine the player.
Video Referee Protocols
Where Super League, Challenge Cup or international matches are broadcast live, a video referee will be present. The video referee can intervene during a match to adjudicate on try scoring situations, restarts of play and incidents of foul play.
In the case of foul play, the scrutiny afforded by this instant replay technology acts as a deterrent against foul play for players in the knowledge that even if the on-field officials miss an incident, it can be instantly flagged to them owing to the multiple camera angles available. This is an important tool for promoting player safety and reducing foul play.
The video referee may intervene to assist the referee in the following circumstances where foul play has been committed:
- If a penalty has been awarded, the video referee will assist in identification of players and give clarification to the referee once a replay has been seen. The video referee can advise the referee of his opinion as to the outcome of the incident but cannot overturn the initial penalty unless there is prior foul play warranting a sin bin or dismissal. The final decision will lie with the on-field referee.
- If a penalty has not been awarded then the video referee will only advise on foul play if, in his opinion, it is of a serious enough nature for a player to be sin binned or sent off. The final decision will lie with the on-field referee.
- If after the play the ball, the video referee can inform the on-field referee that there has been an incident that should be placed on report (if the on-field officials have not picked up on the incident) but a penalty will not be awarded and play will resume at the point where the referee stopped the game to place it on report. If a player immediately leaves the field of play, then the interchange is a ‘free’ interchange.
Disciplinary Action
In addition to any action that might be taken on the field of play, disciplinary action may also be taken following matches. The purpose of this is to ensure that appropriate sanctions are imposed for any breaches of the Laws of the Game including those which could impact player health and welfare. The potential for disciplinary action to be taken after matches and for sanctions to be imposed (including match bans and fines) acts as a deterrent to foul play and an incentive for players to ensure that they do not breach the Laws and to ensure their technique, particularly when tackling, is correct.
Professional Game
- In relation to the professional game, the decision on whether to charge a player with Misconduct following a match is made by a Match Review Panel. The Panel is made up of the RFL Compliance Manager (who provides the administrative support to the Panel) and up to 4 side members drawn from people with appropriate expertise (such as former players, referees and coaches). Any hearings are heard by the Operational Rules Tribunal which is made up of a legally qualified chair (usually a judge or retired judge) and 2 side members with appropriate experience of the game. Each member of the MRP have received training from the RFL Chief Medical Officer in relation to potential signs of concussion. All Operational Rules Tribunal members and Match Review Panel members have three training meetings per annum which can include information regarding contact with the head.
- In the case of matches involving Super League teams, all matches are reviewed in full by a member of the Match Review Panel to identify incidents of potential Misconduct which should be considered by the Panel. The identified incidents are then considered by the Panel on the Monday morning immediately following the round of matches. One of the key areas of focus for this group is to ensure that Player safety and wellbeing is preserved, this is considered within the review and deliberation process. This includes situations which may carry the risk of compromising players’ health in relation to head injuries.
- In relation to all other tiers of the professional game, the Panel meet on the Thursday following each round of matches and consider any incidents that have been reported by Match Officials or otherwise brought to the attention of the Panel. There are 2 side members in attendance for these meetings.
- In relation to each incident the Match Review Panel consider, the Panel has the following options:
The grades and normal suspension range for each grade are listed below:
Grade | Normal Suspension Range
|
A | NFA - 1 match |
B | 1-2 matches |
C | 2-3 matches |
D | 3-5 matches |
E | 4-8 matches |
F | 8+ or suspension period |
Depending on the severity, breaches of the applicable Laws, could fall within any of the above Grades.
Acts which are deemed to be of a careless nature would be graded by the Match Review Panel at Grades A or B: for example if a ball carrier dips just prior to contact with a tackler. Reckless acts, such as making a genuine attempt to tackle but doing so in a reckless manner would be graded at B to C. Intentional acts carry the most severe sanctions of D to F: these would be acts such as no attempt to tackle legitimately and/or with violence in the contact. There are aspects of fluidity within the grading process to take into consideration the merits of each act.
- In the case of Offences not automatically referred to the Operational Rules Tribunal, a charged player may:
- For all Charges heard by the Operational Rules Tribunal, following submissions from the Compliance Manager and the charged Player / Club, the Tribunal determine whether the player is guilty of Misconduct and, if so, the applicable Grade and Sanction. Where a Player is found guilty, in addition to any suspension, a fine is also imposed (the amount dependent on the tier of competition).
- The Sentencing Guidelines include mitigating and aggravating factors which the Tribunal may consider in determining sanction. In respect of injury caused, the Tribunal may consider the following points by way of aggravating factors:
- There is the potential of a further appeal to an Operational Rules Tribunal Appeal Panel; however, this is only on limited grounds.
The rigorous approach set out above and potential sanctions, acts as a significant deterrent to deliberate foul play and a significant incentive to ensure correct tackle technique to avoid contact with the head or neck of opposition players.
Community Game
- In relation to the community game, the decision on whether a player is guilty of Misconduct following a match is made by relevant Competition Disciplinary Tribunals. The Panel is made up with an appointed Chair and up to three side members drawn from people with appropriate expertise (such as former players, match officials, coaches, and club officials).
- All Disciplinary Panels have the power to:
- Most panels meet monthly; however, this is dependent on the number of cases to be dealt with. Not all games within the Community Game are recorded so it is necessary to rely on the match officials providing written reports on any incidents.
- Disciplinary Panels only hear cases that are referred to them as a result of reports received from the match officials. Usually these would only be as a result of an on field dismissal but other cases can be referred if a serious incident is reported to the competition administrator.
- Sanctions range from a warning and advice as to technique through to an indefinite ban based on a number of factors including severity of injury caused and whether the tackle was deemed to be careless, reckless or intentional.
- Competitions also have the power to fine players who are found guilty of Misconduct and fines range from £10 to £20 per match a player is banned for. This only applies in the adult game.
Whilst ultimately the RFL Board set the regulatory framework for the sport, they are guided by a Clinical Advisory Group.
The Clinical Advisory Group has recently become a formal sub-committee of the RFL Board to reflect the importance of its work and recommendations.
The Clinical Advisory Group is made up predominately of individuals who have clinical roles within the Game representing a multidisciplinary approach. The role of the Clinical Advisory Group includes to:
- Collectively advise on the evolution of the Medical Standards across the Game.
- Discuss and develop new guidance on medical matters for the Game.
- In relation to the above, consider developments in other similar sports.
- Consider any recommendations from any sub-groups established by the Group.
- Provide recommendations to the Board on matters arising, as and when required.
- Input, as appropriate, into other groups including but not limited to the Laws Committee.
Any future changes to the Game itself would be guided by scientific research – adopting an evidence-based approach to decision making.
The majority of regulations relating to concussion in the professional game are set out in the Medical Standards. The Medical Standards are reviewed ahead of each season with input on relevant areas from the Clinical Advisory Group (as requested). Updates to the Medical Standards are shared with clubs (including CEOs) and club doctors.
Any breach of the Medical Standards is Misconduct and is investigated by the RFL Compliance Manager and, where appropriate, sanctions imposed or the matter referred to an Operational Rules Tribunal.
Summarised below are the key provisions of the Medical Standards relating to concussion and head contact. Where applicable these are in line with the Berlin Conference Consensus Statement on Concussion in Sport.
- Clinician at Matches - A minimum number of appropriately trained and qualified clinicians are required to be present at matches.
- Clinicians at Training - A minimum number of appropriately trained and qualified clinicians are required to be present at training sessions.
- Mandatory Medical Equipment – The Medical Standards list certain medical equipment and drugs which must be present at all Matches. The Mandatory equipment required allows medical care to be provided for all treatment, including emergency head injury management.
- Baseline Assessments - Before each season, there is a mandatory baseline assessment including CogniGram, and SCAT5 for all professional players. It is also mandatory at Super League first team level and best practice for all first team players at other clubs for a full neurological assessment baseline pre-contact. Taking part, or a Club allowing a player to take part, in contact training or matches without a baseline would be serious misconduct.
- Removal from the Field of Play and Assessment
- Pitchside Video Replay System
- Immediate After Care – The Medical Standards set out the steps that should be followed where a player has been diagnosed with concussion. This includes the supervision of a responsible adult and the provision of a patient information leaflet on head injuries and concussion.
- Mandatory Reporting
- RFL Monitoring
- Graduated Return to Play Protocol
Graduated Return to Play Stages Following Concussion (Super League Men’s)
Stage | Time | Activity Level | Exercise at each stage of GRTP | Objective |
Zero | Head injury day- DAY ZERO | None | None | Assessment, treatment & recovery |
Concussion Report to be completed & submitted to the RFL (all Clubs) GRTP PROTOCOL ALL DAYS ARE POST DAY ZERO
| ||||
1 | DAY 1 and DAY 2 | No activity for 48 hours (adult) or 7 days (U18 Academy) or 14 days (U16 Scholarship) | Symptom limited physical & cognitive rest | Recovery |
2 | DAY 3 | Light aerobic exercise | Walking, swimming or stationary cycling keeping intensity <70% maximum predicted heart rate. | Increase heart rate |
3 | DAY 4 | Sport specific exercise | Running drills – no impact. | Add movement |
4 | DAY 5 | Non-contact training drills | More complex training drills eg passing drills. May start progressive resistance training. | Exercise, co-ordination and cognitive load. |
Doctor or Equivalent must confirm that the player may progress to Stage 5 (all Clubs) | ||||
5 | DAY 6 | Full contact practice | Normal training activity | Restore confidence and coaching staff to assess functional skills |
CogniGram Return to Play test to be taken | ||||
6 | DAY 7 | Return to play | Normal training and/or match activity | Recovery complete |
- Repeat Concussions
First Aid Standards in the community game are also reviewed ahead of each season: relevant updates are shared with clubs (including first aiders) and leagues. Given the limited medical personnel and resources within the recreational game, a more cautious approach compared with the professional leagues is mandated within RFL Policies for potential or suspected concussions in the community game.
- A qualified Level 3 first aider is required at each game. Each team is required to register their first aiders on the RFL’s operating system and include the name of the first aider on the team sheet.
- All first aiders must have undertaken a HSE Three Day First Aid at Work (or equivalent) plus the RFL concussion course.
- Anyone with any signs or symptoms of a potential concussion is required to be removed from the field of play and seek medical assessment where appropriate.
- There is no system of concussion assessments in the community game, if there is any suspicion that a player has suffered a concussion they must be removed from the field of play and cannot return until they have completed their Graduated Return to Play protocol.
- Players are required to follow an extended return to play process. A minimum of 19 days for adult players and 23 days for players under 19. These include a symptom free rest period of 14 days for adults and individuals under the age of 19. The graduated return period for under 19’s is 8 days, and for adults 4 days, with a clearance by a doctor prior to returning to play.
- Community clubs have to submit concussion reports. These are logged on the RFL’s operating system which automatically generates an advice email to the player.
Education materials (Headcase) supporting the above are available on the RFL website (which participants are signposted to as part of their registration with the RFL) and are also available on our education platform. All coaches receive concussion awareness training on the Level 2 Coaching Course and as part of a mandatory annual RFL CoachRight course.
The RFL’s approach in the community game is aligned with the approach adopted in Rugby Union: we have adopted a collaborative approach to our campaigns to seek to provide a consistent message to participants.
Risks are mitigated by a combination of application of the above policies and education across the Game. At all levels of the Game we seek to raise awareness of concussion and the importance of appropriate management.
The RFL implemented an injury surveillance research project in 2013, which was delivered by the University of Bolton (Fitzpatrick et al., 2018). The RFL funded the annual research costs for the project. Data were collected using a bespoke online system, developed by the University of Bolton. The injury surveillance research project used consensus definitions of injuries, including concussion, allowing the quantification and evaluation of injury and concussion incidence, severity and burden.
All sport-wide self-reported injury surveillance is reliant on accurate data reporting by club medical staff. In 2018, the RFL migrated the injury surveillance research project to Leeds Beckett University (Jones et al.), which then used a commercially available online medical recording management system (Catapult AMS). This improved the ease of data input for practitioners. Furthermore, the project was expanded to include Super League Academy and Reserves players. The implementation of this project was based on pilot research which was undertaken with a number of Super League Academies (Tee, Till & Jones, 2018). The RFL has contractual agreements for the above research projects, and funds agreed associated research costs (approx. £16 k pa).
In 2019 the RFL commissioned Leeds Beckett University (Jones, Scantlebury et al.; £12k pa) to evaluate the demands of Women’s Super League, including a league-wide injury surveillance, and an evaluation of match demands and physical qualities, as a risk factor of fatigue related injuries (Scantlebury et al., 2021).
Published data from peer-reviewed studies show that the number of concussions per 1000 hours are 5 for senior Rugby League players (Fitzpatrick et al., 2018) and 13 for Academy players (Tee et al., 2018). The RFL continue to use data from the injury surveillance research project, to evaluate risk factors. For example, Hopkinson et al., (2021) used injurious tackles (including concussive tackles) and video footage to evaluate the relative importance of tackle characteristics during Super League, which cause injuries.
The RFL implemented a league-wide microtechnology system at the Super League level in 2017, allowing the RFL to review match and training loads for research and monitoring purposes (e.g., Dalton-Barron et al., 2021). Concurrently, these data are reviewed with injury surveillance findings to determine areas of risk and modifiable factors.
Ongoing research projects include:
- Review of Tackle Height and Technique (ongoing)
At the start of 2020, the RFL commissioned a research project to analyse a sample of U16 matches, to determine the percentage of tackles that result in head contact, which is a risk factor for head injuries (Tucker et al., 2017). The associated tackle technique has also been determined, which can be used to inform coaching practices. These findings will be presented to a wider group of stakeholders (coaches, referees) to discuss law modifications, based on the findings, to improve tackle technique and reduce the likelihood of a head contact occurring during the tackle. The research group (led by Leeds Beckett University) includes researchers who have experience of implementing similar trails in rugby union, including the recent trial in rugby union that unintentionally increased the number of concussions (World Rugby, RFU, Prof. Tucker, Prof. Stokes, Dr Brown et al.).
- Causes of Head Collisions in Super League
Video footage of tackles which resulted in head collisions have been analysed by the research team at the University of Leeds (Tierney et al.) to determine risk factors. Currently, one season (2019) have been analysed. The team will analyse an addition season (2020) of footage, and the findings will be used to inform potential rule interpretation and law modifications, should risk factors relating to head contact be identified.
- Risk Factors for Injury in Women’s Rugby
As part of the RFL commitment to understanding concussion and injury risk factors in women’s rugby league, the RFL commissioned a study to identify risk factors of injury in women’s rugby league (Leeds Beckett University; Scantlebury, Jones et al.). Whilst empirical data are being collected as part of a wider project, immediate actions by the RFL can be made based on the findings of a consensus, which is establishing unique risk factors for women’s rugby from international experts.
Given recent advances in technology, the RFL are exploring the implementation of a head contact monitoring system (i.e., instrumented mouthguards) across various levels of the game, to quantify and mitigate risks in an evidence-based way.
The project has been approved by the Clinical Advisory Group (8 March 2021), and RFL Board (23 March 2021) and will be presented to the Super League Clubs (including at a meeting on 31 March 2021) for final approval. The project will require an investment of approximately £1 million over three years from all stakeholders to purchase approximately 1,300 instrumented mouthguards for use by professional (Super League and Academy) and community players (including Women’s Super League). Funding will be used to invest in 3 full-time PhD studentships, building a data management system which will allow the investigation of the number and type of head impacts across playing levels, within specific tackle scenarios, and during clinician defined concussive events, using advanced scientific methodologies. As such, this proposed project would allow the RFL to evaluate the current head contact load of players from an acute and longitudinal perspective, across the whole sport.
It is envisaged that the findings of the project will allow the RFL to implement specific guidance relating to head contact load exposure and identify higher risk situations.
Player welfare and health are, and will continue to be, a priority for the RFL in setting the regulatory framework for the sport. Rugby League Cares (the RFL’s partner charity) also plays an important role in supporting players and former players with a range of welfare and health matters.
The charity focuses on the biopsychosocial wellbeing of all current and former players and aims to support players to lead flourishing lives both on and off the field of play.
A holistic approach to this provision is adopted including physical wellbeing, mental wellbeing, career planning, education and training, relationship, culture and religion and finance.
The charity employs a fulltime Head of Player Welfare, Transition Manager and Careers Coach who are supplemented by a Part Time Community and Wellbeing Manager plus a small team of Peer Mentors.
Additionally, the charity’s central team work alongside a fulltime Player Welfare Manager employed within each of the full-time professional clubs. Support is also provided by the central team to part-time clubs, Women’s Super League, Match Official and England men’s, women’s and wheelchair RL teams.
The charity’s Transition Manager provides support to players during each of the key transitioning stages of a player’s career and most critically at retirement and post career. Grants are available to supplement the costs of retraining and education and for hardship as a result of injury, illness, sudden loss of earnings or crisis.
Rugby League Cares also delivers an extensive community programme working alongside the professional club’s charities the Foundations. The key focus of the charity’s community programme is to support the mental wellbeing of the sport’s broad community to include community players, volunteers, administrators and fans. Former players are recruited as presenters and the service is delivered in a broad range of settings including stadiums, businesses and community sports clubs.
Within the above framework the charity supports a small number of ‘memories clubs’. The ‘memories clubs’ work with isolated older people and those living with dementia for weekly get togethers looking back at the history and heritage of the sport.
Set out below are specific responses to the DCMS Inquiry questions which are not covered by sections 1 – 5 above.
The RFL is aware of the emerging evidence relating to the link between head trauma and neurocognitive diseases. The RFL monitors and is starting to work with established experts within this field. Whilst we recognise associations have been found (e.g., Lee et al., 2019, Stewart et al., 2016, Mackay et al., 2019, Lehman et al., 2012, Russell et al., 2019), and retired players from contact sports have developed neurocognitive diseases, we are also aware that the current evidence is inconclusive.
As a governing body, we take a cautious approach in this area. In relation to our policies and practices, we follow the Consensus Statements on Concussion in Sport, most recently issued after the Berlin Conference (McCrory et al., 2017). Medical Standards are under regular review and will be further updated in line with recommendations following the 2021 Paris Conference to align with any new guidelines issued.
As set out above, the RFL’s policies are guided by a Clinical Advisory Group made up of relevant medical experts from across the Game.
The RFL also has a Laws Committee which reviews the Laws of the Game. A representative from the Clinical Advisory Group sits on the Laws Committee and one of the guiding principles is player safety.
The RFL also commission and employ experts to undertake scientific research, which includes the reporting of concussive events in both the senior (e.g., Fitzpatrick et al., 2018) and junior (e.g., Tee, Till & Jones, 2019). In addition, the RFL has also established frameworks to quantify tackle technique, which have been published in scientific journals. (Hopkinson et al., 2021). These are being applied to matches to identify risk factors within a tackle.
Team sports have been demonstrated to be of benefit to children from both a physical and mental health perspective (Sport England; 2016, 2018, 2021). Rugby League has demonstrated a material positive social impact on Lower Socio Economic Group communities: this is demonstrated by the 2020 Rugby League Dividend Report produced for the sport by Manchester Metropolitan University.
Participation in Youth Rugby League is based upon the RFL’s Player Development Framework. This framework sets out an integrated approach to facilitate the development of players at all levels of participation. It outlines a developmental and coaching philosophy, underpinned by an evidence base (cf Bayali & Hamilton 2010; Côté, Lidor & Hackford, 2009) of appropriate practice to bring about life-long participation, enjoyment and high performance with Rugby League appropriate to the age and stage of the participant.
Accordingly, particularly at Primary ages (7 to 11 years) the laws of the game are adapted so that children feel competent in learning new skills with a particular focus on enjoyment. The RFL currently recommends ‘touch’ (i.e. non-tackle) for children in the under 7 and under 8 years age groups. The reason for this recommendation is so that children can learn new skills appropriate to their level of competence and take away the apprehension (for parents as well) of sustaining injuries due to contact Rugby League whilst children develop their confidence.
Coach learning is tailored towards the environment that a coach is operating in. The UKCC Level 1 coaching Rugby League award is specifically aimed at those coaches operating in Primary RL (i.e. children under 11 years) and UKCC Level 2 coaching Rugby League certificate is aimed at those coaches that operate in the 13 a-side game.
Through formal Coach Education (i.e. UKCC level 1 and 2 qualifications), education is provided on-course to coaches that draws out best practice and highlights safe activity in terms of protective falling, correct tackle technique and design of training activity.
There is also a specific section on head contact that covers the basics of concussion recognition, signs and symptoms, memory function and red flag alerts. A pocket concussion tool is also issued.
From January 2021, an on-line Continuous Professional Development (CPD) module known as ‘CoachRight’ has been made mandatory for all coaches to complete. This module contains information for coaches about recognising signs of concussion, how to report concussion, how to treat concussion and protocols for GRTP.
The match characteristics of Rugby League differ between senior and junior players (Whitehead et al., 2018). For example, the running demands are similar between the levels, but the contact demands are lower at younger levels (Whitehead et al., 2019, Naughton et al., 2020). As such, the risk of concussion to youth players due to the rugby league tackle may be inherently different to senior players, although the RFL adopt a cautious approach to the care of youth players.
Youth sports are categorised based on annual age categories, aligned with the academic calendar. Rugby League has undertaken a large volume of research (e.g., Till et al., 2010, Till et al., 2014) into the relative age effect (i.e., the birth date of an individual within an academic calendar year) and maturity (e.g., biological growth and development). This is important to understand potential size mismatches that may occur. Based on these findings, the RFL has changed the playing pathway to de-prioritise competition at younger levels, which follows the evidence relating to the holistic youth sport participation and development (e.g., Rongen et al., 2018).
The RFL are committed to making evidenced based decisions, relating to the risk of rugby league to youth sport participants. The RFL believe that removal of unnecessary rather than all risks should be the priority within youth sport, to not disadvantage youth sport participants from engaging in social, sporting and physical activity events (Quarrie et al., 2017). Collectively, if unnecessary risks are mitigated, engagement in sport provides children with short-term and lifelong lessons relating to physical activity and health (Moeijes et al.,2019).
The RFL continues to monitor and evaluate the scientific evidence relating to injuries, in youth sport. To the RFL knowledge, youth rugby league does not pose a greater risk than other sports (Quarrie et al., 2017)).
The RFL will continue to be guided by broader scientific evidence and undertake scientific research to inform decisions.
NGBs have a role to play in further research, with the RFL currently funding injury surveillance within Super League, Women Super League, Super League Academy, in addition to employing researchers in a consultancy capacity within the organisation to deliver projects (e.g., Prof. Jones, Dr. Scantlebury, Dr Ramirez-Lopez). However, the funding for large-scale multi-sport research is limited by financial constraints. NGBs can provide the management of projects, support through regulatory frameworks and, in conjunction with clubs, access to players.
Collaboration between sports will ensure that the evidence is developed in a timely manner, with sufficient data to draw robust conclusions from findings. Given the differing financial status of sports, broader financial support for research, would likely facilitate research in a more collaborative and cohesive manner. This includes having:
- clarity on the specificity of research questions and design of studies; and
- alignment of research practices/protocols across sports for minimum standards on research quality and further interpretation in line with research questions on contact/collision sport.
The Government (governmental agencies) could have a role to play in coordinating this work and providing financial support for appropriate projects.
Any project looking to determine whether there is a link between head contact in sport and dementia would be, by its very nature, a long-term project. An appropriate balance needs to be made between research of this nature and shorter-term research projects – i.e. to identify which aspects of sports impact the head / brain most so that adjustments can be considered.
Alongside any research, education remains of critical importance. Whilst NGBs have a role to play in this, we believe that centralised consistent messaging involving all relevant stakeholders in sport (including players, parents, coaches, teachers and health care professionals) is essential and would serve as a foundation to any player progressing through to the professional game. This should include recognition, removal and rehabilitation. We therefore ask that Government consider a model similar to that which the Scottish Government have implemented, including the following aspects:
- form or support a central education model for all sports which is applicable and transferrable across all sports;
- that this is backed up by a campaign which assists all involved in the pathway in each sport; and
- that the application of the model is supported by and applies within school settings and NHS messaging.
Each NGB has a responsibility to set the regulatory framework for its sport; however, the application of this framework requires all stakeholders to understand and fulfil their roles and responsibilities.
Our Member Clubs are the Rugby League Professional Clubs. In relation to the Professional and Community Game, our framework is outlined above.
As set out above, we believe that in terms of setting the standards, particularly for recreational sport, the Government (or Government agencies) has an important role in supporting NGBs with a consistent and sports-wide structure.
This is very difficult question to answer, given we do not know the basis of any claims and any rationale for why they might or might not be successful would be purely conjecture. In addition, any consideration of any claims will involve looking at the regulatory landscape of the relevant sport and knowledge at the relevant time: this may be very different to the current situation.
In addition to potential impact on perception and participation, the bringing of claims may have an impact on the ability of sports to get affordable insurance to cover similar claims in the future. Given the recognised benefits of sport (and the fact that many sports do not have significant reserves), this may require the Government to step in to ensure the ability for sports to continue to operate.
References
Balyi, I., & Hamilton, A. (2010). Long Term Athlete Development. Trainability in childhood and Adolescence. American Swimming, 2010(2), 14–23.
Côté, J., Lidor, R., & Hackfort, D. (2009). ISSP Position stand: To sample or to specialise? Seven postulates about youth sport activities that lead to continued participation and elite performance. IJSEP, 2009, 9, 07-17
Dalton-Barron, N., Palczewska, A., McLaren, S.J., Rennie, G., Beggs, C., Roe, G., Jones, B. (2020) A league-wide investigation into variability of rugby league match running from 322 Super League games, Science and Medicine in Football, DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2020.1844907
Emery CA, Barlow KM, Brooks BL, et al. A systematic review of psychiatric, psychological, and Behavioural Outcomes following Mild traumatic brain Injury in Children and Adolescents. Can J Psychiatry 2016;61:259–69.
Emmonds S, Weaving D, Dalton-Barron N, Rennie G, Hunwicks R, Tee J, Owen C, Jones B. Locomotor characteristics of the women's inaugural super league competition and the rugby league world cup. J Sports Sci. 2020 Nov;38(21):2454-2461. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2020.1790815. Epub 2020 Jul 23. PMID: 32701387.
Fitzpatrick AC, Naylor AS, Myler P, Robertson C. A three-year epidemiological prospective cohort study of rugby league match injuries from the European Super League. J Sci Med Sport. 2018 Feb;21(2):160-165. doi: 10.1016/j.jsams.2017.08.012. Epub 2017 Aug 24. PMID: 28866109.
Lee EB, Kinch K, Johnson VE, Trojanowski JQ, Smith DH, Stewart W. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a common co-morbidity, but less frequent primary dementia in former soccer and rugby players. Acta Neuropathol 2019; 138:389 -99. doi: 10.1007/s00401-019-02030-y. pmid: 31152201
Lehman EJ, Hein MJ, Baron SL, Gersic CM. Neurodegenerative causes of death among retired National Football League players. Neurology 2012 ;79:1970 - 4. doi: 10.1212/WNL.0b013e31826daf50. pmid: 22955124
Mackay DF, Russell ER, Stewart K, MacLean JA, Pell JP, Stewart W. Neurodegenerative mortality in former professional soccer players. N Engl J Med 2019 ;381:1801 - 8. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa1908483. pmid: 31633894
McCrory P, Meeuwisse W, Dvořák J, Aubry M, Bailes J, Broglio S, Cantu RC, Cassidy D, Echemendia RJ, Castellani RJ, Davis GA, Ellenbogen R, Emery C, Engebretsen L, Feddermann-Demont N, Giza CC, Guskiewicz KM, Herring S, Iverson GL, Johnston KM, Kissick J, Kutcher J, Leddy JJ, Maddocks D, Makdissi M, Manley GT, McCrea M, Meehan WP, Nagahiro S, Patricios J, Putukian M, Schneider KJ, Sills A, Tator CH, Turner M, Vos PE. Consensus statement on concussion in sport-the 5th international conference on concussion in sport held in Berlin, October 2016. Br J Sports Med. 2017 Jun;51(11):838-847. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-097699. Epub 2017 Apr 26. PMID: 28446457.
Moeijes J, van Busschbach JT, Wieringa TH, Kone J, Bosscher RJ, Twisk JWR. Sports participation and health-related quality of life in children: results of a cross-sectional study. Health Qual Life Outcomes. 2019;17(1):64. Published 2019 Apr 15. doi:10.1186/s12955-019-1124-y
Quarrie KL, Brooks JHM, Burger N, Hume PA, Jackson S. Facts and values: on the acceptability of risks in children's sport using the example of rugby - a narrative review. Br J Sports Med. 2017 Aug;51(15):1134-1139. doi: 10.1136/bjsports-2017-098013. PMID: 28724697.
Rongen F, McKenna J, Cobley S, Till K. Are youth sport talent identification and development systems necessary and healthy?. Sports Med Open. 2018;4(1):18. Published 2018 May 22. doi:10.1186/s40798-018-0135-2
Russell ER, Stewart K, Mackay DF, MacLean J, Pell JP, Stewart W. Football's InfluencE on Lifelong health and Dementia risk (FIELD): protocol for a retrospective cohort study of former professional footballers. BMJ Open. 2019;9(5):e028654. Published 2019 May 22. doi:10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028654
Sport England (2016). The Coaching Plan for England
Sport England (2018). Talent Plan for England
Sport England (2021). Uniting the Movement. A 10-year vision to transform lives and communities through sport and physical activity
Stewart W, McNamara PH, Lawlor B, Hutchinson S, Farrell M. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy: a potential late and under recognized consequence of rugby union?QJM 2016 ;109:11 - 5. doi: 10.1093/qjmed/hcv070. pmid: 25998165
Tee JC, Till K, Jones B. Incidence and characteristics of injury in under-19 academy level rugby league match play: A single season prospective cohort study. J Sports Sci. 2019 May;37(10):1181-1188. doi: 10.1080/02640414.2018.1547100. Epub 2018 Nov 15. PMID: 30430907.
The Rugby League Dividend Report (2019 and updated in 2020). By the Sport Policy Unit, part of the Future Economies Research Centre, the Faculty of Business and Law, Manchester Metropolitan University
Till K, Cobley S, O' Hara J, Cooke C, Chapman C. Considering maturation status and relative age in the longitudinal evaluation of junior rugby league players. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2014 Jun;24(3):569-76. doi: 10.1111/sms.12033. Epub 2013 Jan 7. PMID: 23289942.
Till K, Cobley S, Wattie N, O'Hara J, Cooke C, Chapman C. The prevalence, influential factors and mechanisms of relative age effects in UK Rugby League. Scand J Med Sci Sports. 2010 Apr;20(2):320-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0838.2009.00884.x. Epub 2009 Mar 29. PMID: 19486487.
Whitehead S, Till K, Weaving D, Jones B. The Use of Microtechnology to Quantify the Peak Match Demands of the Football Codes: A Systematic Review. Sports Med. 2018 Nov;48(11):2549-2575. doi: 10.1007/s40279-018-0965-6. PMID: 30088218; PMCID: PMC6182461.
Whitehead, S., Till, K., Weaving, D., Hunwicks, R., Pacey, R., Jones, B. (2019) Whole, half and peak running demands during club and international youth rugby league match-play, Science and Medicine in Football, 3:1, 63-69, DOI: 10.1080/24733938.2018.1480058