USA Rugby has announced plans to implement a Global Law Variation that will lower the legal height of tackles in community rugby to below the sternum for the 2024-25 membership year. This decision comes as part of an effort to improve safety on the rugby field and enhance the overall rugby experience for players.
According to World Rugby, research has shown that the risk of concussion is over four times higher when the tackler’s head is above the ball carrier’s sternum. By implementing this new rule, USA Rugby aims to reduce the risk of head-to-head and head-to-shoulder contact during tackles.
Several other countries have already successfully implemented similar variations in community rugby, providing a pathway for USA Rugby to follow suit. A survey conducted among almost 3,000 USA Rugby members showed that the majority were in favor of the Law change.
To test the effectiveness of the new rule, the Midwest Rugby Union will hold an expedited trial with Senior Club friendlies this Spring. Feedback from this trial will be used to finalize the variations and language for full implementation, set to be released on July 1, two months before the new rules take effect.
Extensive education and resources will be provided for players, coaches, and match officials, including Law documentation in the USA Rugby Game Management Guidelines and webinars and e-Learning modules through the USA Rugby Learning Center.
The process leading up to the implementation of the Global Law Variation has been managed through four phases, including research, best practice advice, development of an implementation plan, and the upcoming trial and finalization process. USA Rugby is committed to promoting player safety and the spirit of the game through these new measures.
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