Sir, – I was the mother of three extremely energetic and active boys who all played rugby from junior to senior level, during which time they did sustain occasional injuries, as you would with any sport. But being coached and trained correctly, they learned how to tackle and fall, without injury. They trained twice a week and had matches on Saturdays, both at school and club level. Hail, rain and shine! I can honestly say that the discipline, commitment, teamwork and competitiveness they learned have stood to them in everyday life, and the friendships that they have developed remain throughout. These boys are now men encouraging their own children to participate in the game. I would like to reiterate what Dr Alan Rossiter (March 3rd) and Dr Aidan Mackey (March 5th) said. The benefits of rugby, or indeed of any sport, far outweigh the risks. – Yours, etc,
KAREN CREAN,
Greystones, Co Wicklow.