This article was originally published by Stuff.co.nz and is reproduced here with permission.
All Blacks legend Ardie Savea is calling on participants of the ‘run it straight’ social media challenge to prioritise their safety.
The standout player of Super Rugby Pacific and captain of Moana Pasifika has raised concerns regarding the risks associated with this trending social media activity, extending his heartfelt sympathies to the family of a teenager from Palmerston North who tragically lost his life after engaging in an impromptu ‘run it straight’ game with friends on Sunday.
“First and foremost, I want to express my condolences to the young brother who has passed and his family. It’s always heart-wrenching to hear such news,” said Savea.
“My only wish is that no one else gets hurt or loses their life. I urge everyone to take care, and my thoughts are with our brother and his family during this difficult time.”
Ardie Savea from New Zealand during the Autumn Nations Series 2024. Getty
The ‘run it straight’ game, while not new, has surged in popularity thanks to the Australian-based RUNIT Championship League, capturing the attention of social media.
The RUNIT website boasts, “Born to go viral and built to break limits, it’s taken social media by storm, accumulating tens of millions of views.”
Inspired by action from rugby union, rugby league, the NFL, and AFL, this game features a ball runner and a tackler positioned at opposite ends of a 20m x 4m field, charging at each other at full speed.
There have been widespread calls to prohibit this seemingly rapidly growing sport.
Savea shared that he used to engage in his own version of this vigorous game with his brother, Julian Savea, during their childhood.
Ardie Savea celebrates after winning the Super Rugby Pacific match between Moana Pasifika and Blues in round 14. Getty
“It’s a tough situation. I’m not aware of the safety measures in place concerning head injuries, and I totally understand the concerns from others too,” Savea commented.
“It’s a bit of a dilemma because playing this game has contributed to my development as a rugby player. I remember having ‘run it straight’ matches in the backyard with my brother Bus (Julian Savea) – so I see both perspectives here.”
“It’s challenging to provide a definitive answer, but I certainly encourage everyone to act cautiously.”
Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga also addressed the recent social media trend, focusing more on official events rather than casual games among friends.
“I can see that many of those engaged are predominantly from our communities – Māori and Pacific Islanders – who are keen to improve their circumstances in life,” Umaga stated.
Moana Pasifika Head Coach Faalogo Tana Umaga. Getty
Canterbury Rugby League representative Champ Betham recently secured $20,000 for winning the latest Auckland RUNIT Championship league trial.
“My circumstances differ from theirs, making it challenging to comment on their motivations,” Umaga reflected.
“I understand why they seek this opportunity, as it could offer a pathway to improve their lives and those of their families.
“It’s vital, however, to ensure they keep themselves safe.”
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On Wednesday, New Zealand Rugby issued a statement urging people to avoid participating in the ‘run it straight’ trend and expressed their condolences to the family and community of Satterthwaite.
“We strongly advise against engaging in Run It Straight games or competitions due to the considerable risk of serious injury,” the statement warned.
“Individuals interested in contact sports should register with a school or club team, where they can learn to tackle safely and master evasion techniques in a controlled environment,” the statement concluded.
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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