Berrick Barnes has been out of action due to repeated concussions
© Getty Images
|
Jamie Pandaram salutes the bravery of Berrick Barnes after the Waratahs playmaker publicised his recent head injuries in The Sydney Morning Herald.
"Berrick Barnes has been sitting on the sidelines, but that is why he should be considered the bravest Super Rugby player of the past month. By publicising his health fears after two separate head knocks, Barnes is helping to change a dangerous culture in contact sports and is providing an important example for youngsters.
"There is nothing macho about brain injuries, so why do we see athletes forcing themselves back into the fray after suffering concussion?
"In the first instance, it is a cultural reaction, a cry from within that decrees they are weak for staying down too long after a heavy blow. They will themselves to their feet, disregarding the spinning sky and grass, because of a pre-determined mindset that charges them up for physical confrontation."
RSS feed
