Sometimes you learn the hard way. In my first year on the Referee's Society, having retired from playing, I did a Vets (35 plus) game involving 2 clubs I used to play against. Having ignored the "feedback" from the Front rows that I was standing too close when showing the mark at a Scrum, I found myself bound in between the two front rows when they engaged. My only excuse... I used to paly full back and had no idea about scummaging. Many would argue I still don't but that's another story!!
A fascinating, disturbing article. Firstly, a big thankyou to Steve Devine for the frank and honest way in which he described his history of injury and the effect it has had on his life. In the Professional era, players are getting bigger and are better conditioned physically but one thing you cannot do is grow a thicker skull to absorb more knocks! Players are stronger and faster and that means, by definition, that the head collisions are going to be more traumatic. It is not only the elite players who are suffering but also players at all levels. »
Rugbydump, thank you so much for posting this. Must agree with "Besthookers" comment that I would love to see more of that; any chance of posting more of the tournament?? »
Well said Nigel Owens! Get the feeling that at least one player got the message and will not forget it; perhaps a few of Nigel's colleagues could borrow the same phrase!
