SFGG worked on defense last night, and, of course, we tackled. Would anyone argue that Rugby is NOT a contact sport?
In fact, there once was a popular T-shirt stating "I'd play rugby and lose, than to have ever played softball." Sadly, some legal boobs ruled that Softball IS a contact sport... go figure. (The ruling was positive, as assumption of risk on the participant, even if it was...softball.)
Now, IMHO Hockey is Rugby with sticks. But, the brain trust at the NHL discounts a connection between concussion and a degenerative brain ailment. Really?
Now, these two stories are related by the "Assumption of Risk." I don't like tackling props. But, I assume the risk because I enjoy playing Rugby. I make that choice on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturdays.
The NHL should go the way of the SC Supreme Court: Acknowledge that multiple concussions can lead to long-term brain degeneration, and then create a program to detect signs early. This won't increase their liability, since the risk is assumed by the players.
Remember, if you hide during Tackling Practice, you'll eventually get outed in a match.
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