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On Monday, the new independent commission which now governs rugby league made the decision to outlaw the shoulder charge.
While much of the reaction from players and fans has been negative, it is my opinon that these changes have, if anything, come too late.
Rugby league has been around a little over 100 years. That’s a long time, not only in the history of a proud game, but in that of society too.
So much has changed in our society over the last 100 years, and one of the most drastic changes has taken place in the area of health.
The health risks associaed with binge drinking, smoking and speeding have all been combatted, along with so many other health risks. Which begs the question: why has rugby league been lumbering behind the rest of society for so long?
The shoulder charge puts players at risk of sustaining brain injuries that could stick with them for the rest of their lives.
Recent shoulder charges, such as Greg Inglis’s horror shot on Dean Young, have showcased the extreme danger of the unconventional tackle.
Doctors have spoken in support of the new ban, confirming that this is most certainly the right decision.
One would not reject the medical recommendations of his local GP, and rugby league should certainly not reject the verdict of the medical community.
The safety of players is far more important than the entertainment value of the shoulder charge. Banning this dangerous tackle is unquestionably the right decision.
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