The RFU have released their latest statement, regarding the changing height of the tackle to the waist down. The changing height is set to come into fruition in the National One League and below for the men’s game, and the Championship and below for the women’s game, at the start of the 2023/24 season.
In the latest statement, The RFU Board, Council and executive staff state their apology for causing “anger and concern” around the change. The RFU re-affirms that the decision was made in order to reduce head-on-head collisions, minimising the chance for head injury’s and concussions in the sport.
The accompanying thread to this Twitter statement presents the accompanying evidence for the change to tackle height. The RFU has made the link public for the online rugby community to access, along with World Rugby’s latest statement regarding the changing laws.
The statement discusses how the RFU will “start inviting players, coaches, match officials and volunteers” to forums to discuss the changing laws and surrounding concerns. This is a relief for the grass roots rugby community, who voiced their disapproval of the law change in large numbers.
Now the RFU is opening the door for discussions with members of the rugby community, to best approach this change. The desired outcome is of course for a safer game in regards to reducing head injuries, yet also a game that all shapes and sizes can enjoy. Hopefully this move is the start of a conversation between the RFU and wider rugby community, to find and outcome that works on all levels, and for all shapes and sizes.