New Zealand’s rugby and all-black star star Ardie Savea issued a warning about the viral “Run-It-Stright” outbreak after the death of the teenager, but the Moana Pasifika skipper admitted that he himself joined something similar in his youth.
On Thursday, NZR issued a statement after the death of 19-year-old Ryan Satathwaite. This warns governing bodies of dangers to participate in games that have been brought into the mainstream by Lanite and run straight startup leagues.
“We urge people not to participate in straight games or competitions because we take a serious risk of serious injuries,” the statement read.
“People who want to play contact sports should sign up for school or club teams and learn the art of avoidance and how to tackle safely in a controlled, safe environment,” the statement said.
As the name suggests, the contest attacks two competitors on each other. One runs the ball and the other defends on a 20-meter field. Simply put, the idea is that it’s not a casualty of a big hit or, in the case of a ball carrier.
The competition has been held in both Australia and New Zealand in recent months, leading to widespread criticism of such events due to the risk of concussions and brain-related injuries. The tragic death of teenager Satterthwaite, who had not participated in one of the organized tournaments but instead took part in the game at a 21st birthday party, brought it to the spotlight even further.
Savea, who has already won the Super Rugby Player of the Year award for her in the Moana Pasifika training on Thursday, was asked about “Run It Straight.”
“(My message) First and foremost, I don’t mean pathetic dol to my late brother and his family. Obviously there’s nothing to be ok with that.”
“I obviously just don’t want to lose my life by getting injured. I encourage everyone to be safe and pathetic to our brother and his family.”
Savea begged anyone considering taking part in a game like Runit to do so as safely as possible, but also admitted that he and his brother Julian are fighting for similar games.
“That’s tough,” Ardie Savea said. “I don’t know the precautions they take from a head-on perspective of things. You can look at the other side and understand why they’re doing it and more.
“Because it’s like I’ve become a rugby player – I was running it straight in my backyard with the bass (brother Julian Saver) – you’re like looking at both sides.
“It’s really hard to say, but it just encourages people to be safe.”
Moana Pacifica coach Tana Umaga has also joined Sabea in expressing sadness for Satertwight’s family and acknowledging circumstances that could lead someone to pursue.
“I think they are primarily our people, Maori and Pacific Islanders – just trying to move forward in life,” Umaga said.
“My situation is different from them, so it’s difficult to tell why they do that,” Umaga said.
“You can see why they do it — because it can give them a stepping stone to live a better life for them and their families.
“You can see why they’re doing it, but that’s about ensuring they keep themselves safe.”