British teenagers have been warned against participating in a perilous trend inspired by a controversial game that has claimed the life of a Kiwi youth. The latest incident involved a 19-year-old, Ryan Satterthwaite, who tragically died following a severe head injury sustained while playing a full-contact tackling game, part of the social media phenomenon “Run It Straight.” This game has gained traction for its high-octane clashes, challenging participants to charge towards one another over a 20-metre ‘battlefield’ without any protective gear.

The rules of the game are straightforward yet alarming: players compete to tackle their opponent while securing a rugby ball. The aim is rooted in dominance, with the game’s motto stating, “Victory belongs to the one who dominates the collision.” However, this aggressive spirit has led to fatal consequences; Satterthwaite’s death has brought renewed attention to the risks associated with this unregulated activity, prompting authorities to issue stern warnings.

Local police have confirmed that Satterthwaite was engaged in an impromptu match when he sustained the fatal injury. Friends attempted to rush him to the hospital, but sadly, it was too late. As the game continues to gain popularity, public figures, including former England rugby star George Burgess, have been actively promoting it. Quite controversially, Burgess even competed in a tournament in Australia, reportedly winning £9,500 in the process. His participation has only added to the troubling nature of a game that many experts strongly advise against, with some calling it “reckless” and “a step backwards” for youth sports.

Prominent neuroscientists and sports scientists have raised alarms about the high risk of head injuries associated with such games. Dr Helen Murray, a neuroscientist, highlighted the absence of measures to mitigate head impacts, emphasising that “there is clearly a high risk of head injury in this event.” Similarly, Professor Patria Hume warned of the long-term consequences, stating, “The science is clear – repeated head impacts increase the risk of long-term brain damage.”

Community organisations like Headway, a New Zealand charity focused on brain injury prevention, have echoed these concerns. They urge schools, parents, and community leaders to discourage this form of entertainment and promote safer, structured activities for young people. This call to action is crucial, given the current cultural landscape where discussions about youth safety frequently revolve around high-risk behaviours, including reckless driving and dangerous social trends.

In response to the backlash surrounding “Run It Straight,” its founder, Christian Lesa, maintained that the game should only be played under strict conditions. Despite the rising criticisms, Burgess has defended the game, suggesting it serves as a safe simulation of past combat sports that allows former athletes to “get off the couch” and reconnect with their competitive spirit. The event’s spokesperson claimed that organised competitions take significant precautions, including medical waivers and on-site ambulances to ensure player safety.

As the dangerous allure of such trends persists, it becomes imperative for parents, educators, and community leaders to engage in open dialogues with youth about the potential consequences of reckless behaviour. Reinforcing education around safety and responsible participation in sports can aid in mitigating the risks associated with similar activities, ultimately promoting healthier, safer alternatives that will benefit the younger generation.

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Source: Noah Wire Services