Former Gloucester and England flanker Andy Hazell backs Progressive Rugby player welfare requirements
This article is written by Progressive Rugby
Former Gloucester and England flanker Andy Hazell has thrown his weight behind Progressive Rugby’s elite player welfare requirements.
Hazell, who played over 250 times as a flanker for Gloucester between 1997 and 2014 and seven times for England, retired as a result of persistent concussion symptoms.
The 44-year-old is not part of the lawsuit against World Rugby and the RFU because the game has given him so much, but he does think past players should be supported if required and current players should be given better protection under the protocols.
“We can’t have players worrying about their futures,” he said.
“They play because they love the game and entertaining then fans. It’s clear bold changes are needed so that they can perform knowing they are being looked after during and after their career.
“In terms of past players, I feel there should be better support for those that require it and I’d like there to be money made available so players can be tested if they do have concerns. I’d also like to see funding for continued research into what can be done to improve brain health for those struggling.”
“We can’t have players worrying about their futures.”