New Zealand Rugby step in after death of teenager during viral game as All Blacks star Ardie Savea wades into ‘safety’ debate
All Blacks and Moana Pasifika star Ardie Savea.
New Zealand Rugby have urged people “not to take part” in a rugby-style game which saw a 19-year-old lose his life earlier in the week.
Ryan Satterthwaite suffered a serious head injury while taking part in a ‘Run It Straight’ challenge, which sees two players – one attacker and one defender – run into each other to either make a tackle or score a try.
Although this tragedy happened during an unofficial competition, official events have become hugely popular in Australia and New Zealand with clips going viral on social media sites like TikTok.
However, NZR have felt the need to step in and warn of the dangers after the death of the teenager.
NZR’s statement
“New Zealand Rugby extends heartfelt condolences to Ryan Satterthwaite’s whānau and community,” a statement said.
“We urge people not to take part in Run It Straight games or competitions as they carry significant risk of serious injury.
“Those wanting to play contact sports should register for a school or club team and learn in a controlled and safe environment how to tackle safely and the art of evasion.”
All Blacks star and 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year Ardie Savea also implored people to remain safe when considering doing this challenge.
“(My message) first and foremost is condolences to the young brother that passed away and his family. It’s never nice hearing that, obviously,” Savea told reporters.
“I just obviously don’t want anyone getting hurt and losing lives. I’m just encouraging everyone to be safe and condolences to our brother and his family.”
Savea can ‘see both sides’
Savea admitted, however, that he did something similar with his brother – ex-All Blacks wing Julian – when they were younger.
“It’s a tough one. I don’t know the precautions they take in terms of the head side of things and you can see the other side and understand why they’re doing it and whatnot,” Ardie Savea said.
“It’s hard because it’s kind of made me the rugby player I am – I used to do run it straights in the backyard with Bus (brother Julian Savea) – so you kind of see both sides.
“It’s really hard to say, but I’d just encourage people to be safe.”
READ MORE: New Zealand teenager dies during new viral rugby-style game
