Rugby Science Update 23
By Lara Paul
The aim of this study was to examine the association between tackle characteristics and suspected concussion-related versus non-injurious tackle events in a Canadian female varsity rugby cohort using video analysis. Video footage from Canada West female varsity rugby union league, spanning 2017 to 2019, were analysed. A case-control study design was employed to evaluate the relationship between tackle characteristics and a suspected concussive tackle event. Tackle and head impact characteristics, such as contact direction, location, intensity, were coded. In total, 13 439 tackles were identified. Among 151 225 suspected injury events identified, 26% were classified as suspected concussions. Of these, 78% were attributed to tackle events, while the remaining concussions resulted from other match events, such as a scrums, mauls, or rucks. A high head impact intensity score was strongly associated with concussion for both ball carriers and tacklers. Tackler related suspected concussions were linked to tackle events involving three tacklers in a tackle event, a tap tackle and an away pre-contact head position. Ball carrier related suspected concussions were associated with a tap tackle, illegal tackle type and down pre-contact head position. Concussion prevention programmes and strategies should be prioritised in rugby. The findings of this study can guide the development of strategies and programmes focused on tackle types and head positioning for both tacklers and ball carriers.
This study is published in the International Journal of Performance Analysis in Sport.
The purpose of this study was to identify tackle characteristics associated with clinically diagnosed concussions in the men’s rugby league. Additionally, it aimed to determine the tackle characteristics that predict concussions in rugby league. Match concussions were reported throughout the 2018-2022 Super League seasons and were analysed using video analysis by the research team. In total, 7415 tackles that did not involve concussive events were coded, alongside the analysis of 196 concussions. Seventy percent (70%) occurred to the tackler, while thirty percent (30%) occurred to the ball carrier. Key tackle characteristics associated with concussions included the tackle impact location on the ball carrier’s body, the ball carrier leading arm, the number of defenders in the tackle, and the interaction of body positioning between the ball carrier and tackler. Specific characteristics for tacklers included tackler head placement, the ball carrier leading arm, number of players in the tackle, and tackle impact zone location on the ball carrier. For ball carrier concussions, tackle impact zone location on the ball carrier and the ball carrier and tackler body position. Tackle technique interventions should prioritise proper head placement to minimize direct impacts to the tackler’s head. Interestingly, this study found that the greatest odds of concussion occurred when both players were falling or diving rather than remaining upright. Tackles involving one ball carrier and three tacklers were the most frequent tackle type and had the lowest odds of causing concussion. Prioritising strategies focused on the tackler may significantly reduce overall concussions. Interventions should address initial impact with the ball carriers’ head or neck to decrease ball carrier concussions. Further research into optimal techniques for both ball carrier and tackers is needed. The findings of this study suggest that modifying and reinforcing tackle laws could help reduce the incidence of concussions in rugby league.
This study is published in Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.
The aim of this study was to explore youth Rugby Union coaches’ preferences for education and support in implementing injury prevention programmes. Five focus group were conducted in 2023, involving twelve Rugby Union coaches from secondary school teams and youth clubs in Ireland. Data were collected until data saturation was reached, and a conventional content analysis approach was used to analyse the data and address the research question. Three main categories emerged from the analysis: 1) Formal/non-formal learning, 2) Informal learning, and 3) Intrapersonal considerations. Coaches expressed a preference for live, structured, and practical workshops during the pre-season period, which a strong focus on developing knowledge. The emphasized that injury prevention workshop should also be a stand-alone session to allow full attention to the topic. Coaches also requested active resources to aid in planning their programmes. These resources would enable coaches to develop implicit knowledge of injury prevention programmes through various means, including adapting, integrating, and engaging in Q&A sessions. Coaches also sought the flexibility to adjust programmes as needed. The study identified a mismatch between coaches’ preferences for injury prevention programme education and what is currently offered through National Governing Bodies coach education programmes. Further exploration of perspectives of National Governing Bodies is necessary to address this gap.
This study is published in Physical Therapy in Sport.
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