The recent move by the Rugby Football League (RFL) to lower the legal height for tackles in response to recommendations aimed at enhancing player safety and reducing the risk of concussion has sparked discussions among Australian rugby league coaches. While the Australian Rugby League Commission declined to comment on the RFL’s decision, concerns have been raised regarding the potential impact on the physical nature of the sport.
Former NRL coach, Matthew Elliott, has highlighted the importance of coaching proper tackling techniques to children in order to make the game safer. He maintains that the focus should be on improving technique rather than compromising the physicality of the sport.
Despite the global trend towards lower tackles, some coaches in Australia, such as Matt Church of the Brisbane Tigers’ Queensland Cup-winning team, argue that physical tackles do not necessarily need to be high. They have pointed to their own team’s success in making low tackles that were still highly physical during the grand final.
While there is anticipation of resistance from traditionalists, some coaches believe that fans must adapt to the evolving nature of the sport. The decision by Rugby Australia to implement similar changes has also been mentioned, with some coaches suggesting that this move will ultimately enhance the sport’s appeal.
In the midst of an ongoing investigation into concussion in sport by a Senate committee, the government is in the process of formulating a response to recommendations aimed at preventing and reducing the impact of head trauma. As discussions on tackle height continue, it is evident that the future of the game will involve careful consideration of how to strike a balance between safety and the traditional physicality of rugby league.