'You only have one brain': Government too slow on combat sport laws, says head injury group

Advocacy organization Headway NZ has criticized the government for its sluggish response to implementing stricter safety regulations within combat sports. This call to action follows the tragic death of a teenager during a 'Run It Straight' event approximately one year ago. The group emphasizes that the brain is a singular, irreplaceable organ that requires urgent protection from the risks associated with high-impact physical activities. They argue that current legislative progress is insufficient to address the ongoing dangers faced by participants. By delaying these necessary policy updates, authorities are failing to adequately prioritize the long-term neurological health of athletes. The organization is now urging officials to accelerate their efforts to prevent further preventable tragedies in the sporting community.

The criticism highlights a growing tension between the need for athlete safety reforms and the current pace of government legislative action regarding high-risk contact sports.