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Rugby Science aims to provide a mechanism to bring together the expertise of academics and professionals working in the game, sharing good Rugby science practice and enhancing the scientific study of the game to bridge the gap between research and practice where possible. The Irish Rugby Injury Surveillance (IRIS) Project is an active project within this theme, partnered with the national governing body for Rugby (IRFU). The project aims to enhance the health and welfare of Rugby Union players across the domestic game in Ireland by providing information on injury patterns that can impact on IRFU policy regarding injury prevention measures.
Objectives:
- Provide rugby science and injury epidemiology research expertise to bridge the gap between clinical, coaching, and playing practices.
- Establish a long-term academic partnership with the national governing body in Rugby Injury Science.
Funding:
- 2016 IRFU funding tender €187k
- 2022 accrued €1.4million
Impact:
- Annual injury surveillance national reports
- 17 journal papers
- 31 conference presentation & keynotes
- 5 PhD, 1 postdoc, 9 MSc, 4 UG, 2 intern
- IOC’s consensus statement 2020
- IRFU & World Rugby reporting
Studies:
- Player loading
- Professional game concussion biomarkers
- ENGAGE injury reduction intervention
Theme Leads
Prof Ian Kenny, PESS Department, University of Limerick, Ireland. Researchgate
Dr Tom Comyns, PESS Department, University of Limerick, Ireland. Researchgate
SHPRC members and other researchers aligned to Rugby Science
Kilian Bibby, PhD Student, PESS Department, University of Limerick. LinkedIn
Lauren Guilfoyle, PhD Student, PESS Department, University of Limerick. Researchgate
Patrick Dolan, Doctoral Researcher, PESS Department, University of Limerick. Profile