There will probably never be a more important revelation in the sport of rugby league than the one that hit the headlines earlier in the week.
The news that as many as 50 former rugby league professionals have decided to pick up a lawsuit against the Rugby Football League (RFL) for negligence surrounding concussions and sub-concussions has not sat right with a number of former and current players.
Let’s not kid ourselves or sweep it under the carpet: it will impact the game of rugby league forever.
Rylands Legal is representing 50 former rugby league stars in a negligence suit against the RFL, with allegations that the RFL failed in its duty of care to protect them from the risks associated with concussions and sub-concussions.
The legal company also represents 175 former rugby union stars in a separate concussion lawsuit.
When approached for comment by Serious About Rugby League, an RFL spokesman said: “The Rugby Football League has recently been contacted by solicitors representing a number of former players.
“The RFL takes player safety and welfare extremely seriously, and has been saddened to hear about some of the former players’ difficulties.
“Rugby League is a contact sport and while there is an element of risk to playing any sport, player welfare is always of paramount importance.”
But, whilst a number of players and ex-players have hit out such as Chev Walker, the Castleford club doctor remains the first of his ilk to comment on the latest groundbreaking event.
It will certainly be an interesting case legally – it felt inevitable.
Concussion has been an evolving condition in terms of what we know about it. Guidelines & protocols have evolved hugely over the last 10-15 years, and continue to do so.
2/9
— Nick Raynor (@DrNickRaynor) October 28, 2021
There is so much focus on concussion these days. Before COVID, it was the biggest part of my job.
I don’t know a single physio or doctor who would ignore concussive signs. We want to give players every chance to play, but their welfare is our number one priority.
4/9
— Nick Raynor (@DrNickRaynor) October 28, 2021
We encourage a culture of honesty between players & medical staff. We keep up to date with latest research & participate in ongoing research.
We really protect our younger players, keeping them out for much longer, as evidence says they take longer to recover.
6/9
— Nick Raynor (@DrNickRaynor) October 28, 2021
I have no doubt that the RFL & medical staff will continue to follow research & international expert opinion on how best to manage concussion. Things will continue to change & we will adapt, like all areas of medicine.
Only time will tell if we are doing the right thing.
9/9
— Nick Raynor (@DrNickRaynor) October 28, 2021
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