THE chairman of Barrow Raiders has spoken of the improved safety protocols in rugby league in modern times after it was revealed ten former players are suing for negligence.
Former Barrow Raiders coach and player Bobbie Goulding is among those suing the Rugby Football League for negligence following a diagnosis of early onset dementia.
They claim negligence over the RFL’s alleged failure to protect them from brain injuries caused by concussion during their careers.
He played for ten clubs and the last one was Barrow where he was coach in 2014 and he played three times at the age of 42.
Raiders chairman Steve Neale said: "Certainly in the professional game there are much more precautions in place when it comes to head injuries.
"There are numerous assessments players who have had head injuries have to go through before they are cleared to play again.
"It is almost frustrating for those players who want to get back out there on the field.
"During the time of Goulding and the others there was not much acknowledgement to the damage the game could have on their future years. There is obviously much more awareness of early onset dementia now."
Mr Neale believes the RFL is doing all it can at the moment to ensure players are better protected.
A spokesman for the Rugby Football League said: "The RFL takes player safety and welfare extremely seriously and has been saddened to hear about some of the former players’ difficulties.
"Rugby League is a contact sport and while there is an element of risk to playing any sport, player welfare is always of paramount importance.
"As a result of scientific knowledge, the sport of Rugby League continues to improve and develop its approach to concussion, head injury assessment, education, management and prevention across the whole game. We will continue to use medical evidence and research to reinforce and enhance our approach.”
Mr Neale said there were safeguarding procedures in the junior game as well despite the risk being much lower.
He hopes children are not dissuaded into playing rugby following this case
Barrow Raiders Steve Neale
"It is the same in any sport, there is always an element of risk," Mr Neale said.
"For me personally it has been worth the risk.
"Life is about risk and reward."
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