In World Rugby endorsed trials conducted in France and South Africa, lowering the tackle height has been shown to reduce the number of head-on-head contacts and concussions. Lowering the tackle height has also shown positive outcomes regarding increased ball-in-play time and offloading.

Clubs, schools and societies were notified of the consultation process via Club Communications, today (Tuesday 14 February).

Following a presentation to the Club Rugby Board (CRB) from Scottish Rugby’s Rugby Development Department on the benefits of law trials lowering the tackle height in the community game, the CRB agreed for the Rugby Development department to deliver a period of consultation with players, coaches and referees to ensure those closest to the community game can contribute to establishing the way forward to a safer game for all.

As a result, a series of consultative webinars will be delivered during week commencing Monday 20 February, where Scottish Rugby will gather views from a broad spectrum of stakeholders within the community game.

During the webinars, representatives from Rugby Development will share more information on the cited research, discuss possible law changes which may be considered and take views from those in attendance.

Following these initial consultations, the CRB and the Rugby Development department will communicate next steps in March.

Scottish Rugby will remain in consultation with World Rugby throughout the process.

Keith Wallace, Vice President of Scottish Rugby and Chairman of the CRB said: “It is important that as custodians for the community game, we continue to look at ways we can make our game as safe and enjoyable as possible.

“With new evidence emerging on the positive outcomes of reducing the tackle height to the number of head-on-head contacts and concussions, we must take the time to review the information and possible changes with those at the heart of our game.”

Gavin Scott, Director of Rugby Development added: “This period of consultation will not only be of benefit to those involved in our clubs, schools and societies, it will also help Scottish Rugby better understand what we need to do to help prepare our players, coaches and match officials, should any changes be implemented for next season.

“We look forward to engaging with everyone next week.”

Tackle Height Consultation Webinars

• Wednesday 22 February, 7:30pm | National League club representatives (for club leaders and committee members) | Click HERE to register.
• Wednesday 22 February, 8:30pm | Regional League club representatives (for club leaders and committee members) | Click HERE to register.
• Thursday 23 February, 7:30pm | Match Officials (for panel, society, club and school match officials) | Click HERE to register.
• Monday 27 February, 7:30pm | Youth Game (for players, coaches and directors of rugby) | Click HERE to register.
• Monday 27 February, 8:30pm | Adult Game (for players, coaches and directors of rugby) | Click HERE to register.

Image by Susan Shanks.