A young man identified as Ryan Satterthwaite, aged 19, tragically lost his life following a head injury sustained during a social media-driven game known as "run it straight." The incident occurred in Palmerston North, with Satterthwaite succumbed to his injuries on Monday after participating in the game, which mimics rugby-style collisions without any protective gear.
New Zealand Teen's Death Raises Alarms Over Dangerous Rugby Tackle Game
New Zealand Teen's Death Raises Alarms Over Dangerous Rugby Tackle Game
A tragic incident underscores the risks of a viral social media rugby-inspired tackle game after a 19-year-old New Zealander dies from severe head injuries.
"Run it straight" has surged in popularity among youth, with players charging at each other at full speed in an attempt to knock one another down. While initially an informal activity among friends, police stressed the substantial risks associated with such impromptu games. Spokesperson Ross Grantham called for caution among potential participants, emphasizing the dangers linked to this thrilling yet risky pastime.
Despite warnings from concerned parties about the potential for serious injuries, including head trauma, the game has caught the attention of some professional rugby players, further boosting its appeal. Social media trends illustrate the alarming nature of "run it straight," highlighting videos of players collapsing after tackles, and some even suffering seizures during competitions.
The rise in popularity of organized events like the Runit Championship League, which recently debuted in Auckland, has led to a worrying increase in injuries among players. Despite the dangers, the organizers promise future tournaments offering substantial prize money, luring even more participants into the potentially hazardous activity.
Event organizer Kimami Ngaluafe acknowledged the long-standing cultural presence of "run it straight" in New Zealand, referring to it as a traditional backyard sport. However, following Satterthwaite's tragic death, calls for implementing safety measures have intensified. Advocates recommend wearing protective headgear and having spotters present during games to help mitigate risks, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance for young players engaged in the sport.
With young New Zealanders participating in such activities daily, it highlights an urgent need for safety education and responsible play to prevent further tragedies in the future.
Despite warnings from concerned parties about the potential for serious injuries, including head trauma, the game has caught the attention of some professional rugby players, further boosting its appeal. Social media trends illustrate the alarming nature of "run it straight," highlighting videos of players collapsing after tackles, and some even suffering seizures during competitions.
The rise in popularity of organized events like the Runit Championship League, which recently debuted in Auckland, has led to a worrying increase in injuries among players. Despite the dangers, the organizers promise future tournaments offering substantial prize money, luring even more participants into the potentially hazardous activity.
Event organizer Kimami Ngaluafe acknowledged the long-standing cultural presence of "run it straight" in New Zealand, referring to it as a traditional backyard sport. However, following Satterthwaite's tragic death, calls for implementing safety measures have intensified. Advocates recommend wearing protective headgear and having spotters present during games to help mitigate risks, emphasizing the importance of proper guidance for young players engaged in the sport.
With young New Zealanders participating in such activities daily, it highlights an urgent need for safety education and responsible play to prevent further tragedies in the future.
