'Commercialising concussion': The Australians taking a backyard collision game global

Run It is a new and controversial sport that has quickly gained popularity in Australia, New Zealand, and now other parts of the world. The game is simple but intense: two players run directly at each other, trying to tackle the other without any protective gear. The rules say you cannot dodge, jump, or sidestep. Whoever dominates the contact, as judged by a panel, wins. The sport started in the backyards and schoolyards of Pacific Islander communities, but now it is being played in big arenas with thousands of fans watching. The league has already held events in Melbourne and Auckland, and the next big match is in Dubai, where the winner will take home a huge cash prize of 200,000 Australian dollars.

The founders of Run It, who grew up playing the game in Melbourne, say it is about skill, strength, and footwork. They have used social media to make the sport go viral, attracting millions of views and thousands of fans. Big sponsors are now interested, and the league has even caught the attention of famous sports stars and investors from the US. The league is well-organized, with a strong online presence, a public relations team, and financial backers. They hope to expand to the UK and US soon, and believe Run It could become as popular as boxing or mixed martial arts.

However, the sport has also faced a lot of criticism. Medical experts and sports officials are worried about the risks of serious injuries, especially concussions and brain damage. There have already been reports of players being knocked out and needing medical help during matches. The tragic story of Ryan Satterthwaite, a 19-year-old who died after playing the game at a party, has raised even more concerns. His family and many doctors say the game is too dangerous and should not be promoted. Some mental health workers also worry that the sport encourages young men to hide their feelings and prove their toughness through violence. Rugby organizations and even the Prime Minister of New Zealand have warned people not to play Run It. Despite these warnings, the league says they are doing everything they can to keep players safe, including medical checks and having doctors at every event. They argue that all contact sports have risks, and believe that with the right safety measures, Run It can be enjoyed safely. The debate continues as the league prepares for its next big event in Dubai.