Gustard: Old school badge of honour approach to concussion has to end
This article is written by Progressive Rugby
In the mid-1990s, Shaun Gustard played four years as a flanker in the 1st XV at Hutton Grammar just outside Preston – the same school as future England captain Steve Borthwick.
Shaun Gustard: Image courtesy of Valleyboypics
Who knows, it’s just possible that Shaun’s exploits inspired the now Leicester Tigers head coach who was three years below, in the same way that Neil Back inspired Shaun to show small men could make a big impact.
But while Borthwick has gone on to excel at the elite end of the game as both a player and coach, Shaun is dealing with the dire consequences of multiple concussions.
Headaches, anxiety, acute balance and concentration issues, depression, reduced physical function and short-term memory issues makes every day an uphill struggle for the 45-year-old.
Rugby has been a huge part of Shaun’s life since he was 11-years-old.
After school he went straight into men’s rugby, and after moving to South Wales played union for Taffs Well RFC and league for Cardiff Blue Dragons and went on to become a coach.
He was still playing up until November last year when he was knocked unconscious in a spear tackle that has left him requiring surgery to crushed vertebrae in his neck.
Shaun recalls many times he took blows to the head but stayed on. You did in those days – much better to enjoy a couple of extra pints at the bar from admirers astonished at how tough you are.
But now, while we hear ex-pros, most recently Mike Tindall, say they wouldn’t change a thing because the game has given them so much - Shaun offers a different perspective.
“Had I known the reality of the consequences then no,” he says.
“I broke my nose 14 times, both my shoulders are shot, my knees need replacing and I’m having an operation on my neck, but these are all things you know are a risk playing the game.
“But the brain, this precious organ, is hidden away so we don’t see the damage. It’s not right that I needed to use a sat nav to get to and from work because I just could not remember the way.
“I don’t want people to stop playing the game, but I do want everyone to take responsibility for head injuries and make sure if there’s any doubt, players come off the field immediately.
“Because while the game has given me so much, the truth is it’s taking away even more. The old school attitude to play on at all costs as a badge of honour has to end.”