The New Zealand Rugby (NZR) and All Blacks star Ardie Savea have expressed their concern about the growing popularity of the “run-it-straight” game, following the death of a teenager. Savea, captain of Moana Pasifika, admitted to having participated in similar activities during his youth.NZR issued a statement on Thursday following the death of 19-year-old Ryan Satterthwaite, warning about the dangers of participating in this game, popularized by leagues such as RUNIT and Run it Straight.
We urge people not to participate in Run It Straight games or competitions, as they carry a significant risk of serious injury.
New Zealand Rugby Federation
The statement also recommended that those interested in contact sports enroll in school teams or clubs, where they can learn to tackle and evade safely.
The game, which consists of a confrontation between two competitors on a 20-meter field, seeks for one to run with the ball while the other defends, with the aim of making a forceful tackle or avoiding being tackled.In recent months, competitions have been held in Australia and New Zealand, which has drawn criticism due to the risk of concussions and other brain-related injuries. The tragic death of Satterthwaite, who was participating in a game at a birthday party, has highlighted the seriousness of the situation.
During Moana Pasifika’s training on Thursday, Savea, recognized as the Super Rugby Player of the Year, was asked about “run it straight”.Savea, although he urged participants to play with the greatest possible safety, recalled that he and his older brother, Julian, played similar games when they were children.My message is, first and foremost, my condolences to the young brother who passed away and his family. It’s never nice to hear that, obviously. I just don’t want anyone to get hurt and lose their life. I’m just encouraging everyone to be safe and send my condolences to our brother and his family.
Ardie Savea
Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga also offered his condolences to Satterthwaite’s family and acknowledged the circumstances that might lead someone to participate in this type of game.
