Rugby, a sport known for its roughness and intensity, has been inching towards adopting modern technology to ensure player safety. The most recent introduction in this regard is the use of smart mouthguards. This new rule, which took effect on January 1st, mandates rugby players to wear these high-tech devices during their games. But why this sudden change ? Here, we delve into why connected mouthguards are becoming an integral part of modern-day rugby and how they work.
The rise of connected mouthguards in modern rugby
The need for better concussion detection
The world of rugby has seen a significant shift towards technology, specifically designed to protect the health of its athletes. A major concern has been the increasing number of reported brain injuries among players.
A mandatory rule by World Rugby
In response, international governing body World Rugby made it mandatory to use the smart mouthguards developed by Prevent Biometrics since 2015. With an investment of €2 million for promoting this technology, the organisation has shown its commitment towards safeguarding player health.
An innovative step in sports safety
This move represents a turning point in sports safety protocols. It demonstrates how innovation can be used to bring about positive changes in such a traditional and physical sport. Now that we understand why the rules were implemented, let’s explore how these mouthguards work.
The technical workings of smart mouthguards
Built-in sensors detecting impacts
The main feature of these intelligent devices is their ability to measure real-time impacts on players’ heads during matches. Fitted with sensors, they compute the force, location and direction of each impact, providing invaluable data for assessing players’ on-field safety.
Bluetooth technology for immediate evaluation
Moreover, these mouthguards are equipped with Bluetooth technology that can send signals to the sidelines during a match. This feature allows for immediate evaluation following a head impact, enabling medical professionals to swiftly intervene when necessary.
The growing importance of concussion detection
Real-time alerts for medical teams
The ability to detect concussions in real-time is one of the main advantages of these smart mouthguards. They alert medical teams immediately after any head impact, making it easier to assess the degree of injury and take appropriate action.
Six Nations Tournament requirement
In light of these benefits, the Six Nations Tournament has confirmed that all players must wear these connected mouthguards starting January 12, 2024. This move further emphasizes the importance placed on player safety in modern rugby.
Putting it to the test: feedback from competition
A custom fit for optimal protection
The Bluetooth-connected mouthguards are custom-made for each player. These devices need to be worn during matches and training sessions, ensuring optimal protection at all times.
Evaluating Everlast Mouthguards
An example of such high-quality option is Everlast’s mouthguards. Offering triple-layered protection, they boast durability and high impact resistance. Their thermoformable design ensures a customized fit, providing exceptional comfort and optimal protection. Affordable yet effective, they significantly reduce risks of dental injuries and concussions among players across all levels.
While positive reviews continue to flood in about smart mouthguards, let’s now discuss how this device has evolved since its launch.
From criticism to improvement: the evolution of the device
Initial challenges and improvements
Like any new technology, smart mouthguards faced initial criticism. Over time, however, improvements have been made, turning these devices into an essential piece of player safety equipment.
Just as we manage to understand the journey of the smart mouthguards, it’s important to consider how this impacts both female and male rugby teams.
The implications for male and female teams
Easing gender disparities in rugby
The connected mouthguards are a step towards minimizing gender inequalities in rugby. By enforcing their usage among both women and men players, world Rugby ensures that everyone is equally protected. This could help eliminate some of the barriers that traditionally discourage women from participating in such a physically demanding sport.
But what does this mean for medical follow-up ? Let’s find out.
Data collected: what impact for medical follow-ups ?
An invaluable tool for medical professionals
The data collected by these devices provide crucial insights for immediate medical intervention and future injury prevention strategies. This is a true game-changer in player health management within rugby.
As we explore more about the significance of connected mouthguards in modern rugby, it becomes clear there are varying opinions on their use.
A revolution underway: rejection or integration by players ?
Resistance to change vs embracing technology
While some players might resist this change due to comfort issues or simply reluctance against technological invasion in sports, many understand and appreciate its contribution towards their safety. Thus, it seems likely that over time, resistance will reduce and integration will increase.
In recent years, professional rugby has made significant strides when it comes to enhancing player safety. The introduction and mandatory use of smart mouthguards is a testament to this commitment. Through real-time monitoring and immediate medical alerts, these devices are playing a crucial role in tackling one of the sport’s most pressing issues – brain injuries. Despite initial resistance, it seems that connected mouthguards are here to stay and continue to revolutionize the game we all love.
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