WATCH: School rugby tackle ban?
Wednesday 2 March 2016 11:45, UK
A group of 70 doctors and health experts have written to the government urging them to ban tackling in school-level rugby.
The RFU is currently driving to increase youth participation in rugby, but some experts are worried about the high-impact nature of the game, and the long-term effects it could have on the health of children.
"The majority of all injuries occur during contact or collision, such as the tackle and the scrum," the letter said.
"These injuries, which include fractures, ligamentous tears, dislocated shoulders, spinal injuries and head injuries, can have short-term, life-long, and life-ending consequences for children.
"A link has been found between repeat concussions and cognitive impairment and an association with depression, memory loss and diminished verbal abilities, as well as longer term problems."
The Rugby Football Union said that "high quality coaching, officiating, medical support and appropriate player behaviour" would help to reduce the risk of injury.
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