Concussion management technology company, HITIQ Limited (ASX: HIQ) has entered into a programme partnership with Rugby Australia, which will see HITIQ’s impact sensor technology initially used in the QLD premier rugby 1st grade competition this season.
The programme aims to quantify and profile head impacts experienced in rugby union. Participant teams include Wests, Brothers, UQ, Easts and Sunnybank, with players utilising the HITIQ technology for the remainder of the season.
Following a successful trial, the intention is to use the data from HITIQ’s technology on an ongoing basis to enhance player well-being and concussion management protocols across all levels.
The trial, led by concussion expert, Dr Andrew Gardner, has been endorsed and supported by Dr Warren McDonald, who is the Chief Medical Officer for Rugby Australia.
Rugby Australia is committed to making the game of rugby safe for all participants. As such, we are exploring a number of technologies to determine their role in monitoring players, during training and playing rugby, to help us better understand all elements of the game (including contact), and the links to injury,” Mr McDonald said.
“HITIQ impact sensors are part of that process. We hope that the information gained from this programme will enhance our current understanding of the mechanisms of injury and allow us to develop appropriate preventative measures.”
HITIQ CEO, Mike Vegar, said Rugby Australia is showing strong leadership and progressive thinking towards the serious issue of concussion management.
“The implications of a successful outcome from this programme will have positive ramifications for Australian Rugby Union,” he said.
