Rugby's Female Stars: Neck Strength Key to Concussion Prevention

Research at Swansea University is pioneering efforts to enhance women's rugby safety by focusing on neck strength. Scientists are testing female players to determine how to best prevent concussions and mitigate neurological damage.

This initiative is critical as the sport sees growing popularity among women and girls. Previously, safety research predominantly centered on male athletes, overlooking specific mechanisms of head trauma in the women's game, such as direct head-to-ground impacts.

Dr. Elisabeth Williams highlighted that while men often possess stronger necks, female players can respond differently to similar impact forces. The university's specialized machines provide data to help players improve their neck musculature, which is directly linked to concussion resilience.

Former Welsh rugby player Non Evans has spoken out about her own struggles with memory loss and emotional changes, attributing them to past rugby-related impacts. Her experience underscores the long-term consequences of head injuries, even from an era when concussion awareness was minimal.

World Rugby has committed to player welfare, emphasizing research into women's specific needs. The organization mandates that any funded research must include at least 50% female participants, ensuring a more balanced approach to safety studies in the sport.

At grassroots levels, like Winnington Park Rugby Club, parents and coaches are increasingly aware of concussion protocols, a stark contrast to past practices. This heightened awareness aims to protect young players while ensuring they continue to benefit from the sport's positive aspects like teamwork and self-esteem.