The role of the visual hardware system in rugby performance

Abstract

This study explores the importance of the ‘hardware' factors of the visual system in the game of rugby. A group of professional and club rugby players were tested and the results compared. The results were also compared with the established norms for elite athletes. The findings indicate no significant difference in hardware skills between professional and club players. Compared with the norms for elite athletes' performances, most of the rugby players were average or even worse. This suggests that in the game of rugby the hardware skills may be of less importance and that visual enhancement programmes should focus more on improving the players' software skills.


Key words: Vision, hardware, rugby, sports performance.


(Af. J. Physical, Health Education, Recreation and Dance: 2003 Special Edition: 100-113)