Ryan Satterthwaite, 19, went “downhill” after a collision in a viral rugby game that is sweeping social media. It has sparked a wave of warnings for any youngsters who want to try it
An urgent warning has been issued to British youths after a teenager in New Zealand died after taking part in a viral ‘rugby collision’ challenge.
Ryan Satterthwaite, 19, suffered what turned out to be a fatal head injury after playing a game which sees participants deliberately run into each other without protective gear. The ‘run it straight’ challenge has been shared widely on social media, and is even said to have been promoted by former professionals.
But tragically Ryan’s family were forced to turn off his life support. He had been rushed to hospital after friends said he started going “downhill”, an never woke up again.
Manawatū Police Inspector Ross Grantham confirmed Ryan was playing the game when the devastating injury occurred. Inspector Grantham said: “This young man’s death is an absolute tragedy and my thoughts are with his family and friends.
“While this was an impromptu game among friends, not a planned event, this tragic outcome does highlight the inherent safety concerns with such an activity.
“We would urge anyone thinking about taking part in a game or event like this to consider the significant safety and injury risks.”
The tackling game has gone viral in recent months.
During games, two players charge at each other on a 65-foot “battlefield” with no protective equipment or kid. Organisers even hail it as the “world’s fiercest new combat sport”.
To win, players try to tackle their opponent and take a rugby ball their opponent is holding.
According to the rules: “Victory belongs to the one who dominates the collision.”
Ex-England rugby player George Burgess, 33, won £9,000 after competing in a collision tournament in Australia.
Burgess previously competed in the NRL for St George Illawarra three years ago and also won 15 caps for England between 2013 and 2018.
He took on giant ex-winger, Nadolo, who weights around 136kg and stands at 195cm.
The game has also been slammed by neuroscientist, Dr Helen Murray. She told the NZ Herald: “There is clearly a high risk of head injury in this event. There’s no attempt to reduce head acceleration, so I do not support it.
Professor Patria Hume added: “This is a reckless and dangerous spectacle. The science is clear, repeated head impacts increase risk of long-term brain damage.”