Rugby: Player to Face Trial in December Following Devastating Incident

The date of December 14, 2022, will forever be etched in the memory of Mathias Dantin and his family. During a UNSS rugby match in Bagnères-de-Bigorre, the 17-year-old athlete suffered a poorly executed tackle that resulted in him becoming a quadriplegic. Nearly two years after this tragic event, the 18-year-old player responsible for the incident is set to face judicial proceedings next December. Mathias Dantin’s life changed dramatically in an instant during a match between two high schools. A dangerous tackle, described as a “cathedral tackle,” led to his fall, causing severe damage to his cervical spine. Since that day, the young man has been confined to a wheelchair, relying entirely on constant assistance for daily activities.

A Heartbreaking Incident

Initially, Mathias’s family perceived the incident as a tragic accident. However, by May 2023, Jérôme and Émilie Dantin decided to take legal action. The player is now facing serious allegations of violence that resulted in permanent disability. The family’s attorney, Me Jérôme Marfaing-Didier, has been vocal about the excessive aggression displayed by the young attacker during the match. “For seven seconds, he relentlessly targeted Mathias, who did not even have the ball. He picked him up in his arms, which is entirely against the rules, as that constitutes a cathedral tackle, then violently released him, leading to his disastrous fall onto his neck,” he stated. Despite the seriousness of the situation, the UNSS, which organized the match, is not facing any penalties.

The Call for Accountability

“This aggression should have been prevented,” Jérôme Dantin insisted. “There was a clear failure to adhere to the rules of the game and respect for the opponent.” In response to the incident, the Stade Bagnérais initiated an online fundraising campaign, and the team wore shirts emblazoned with the message “Courage Mathias” during their subsequent match. The UNSS also contributed financially, offering €20,000 to the Dantin family; however, they deemed this assistance insufficient given the enormous expenses associated with home modifications and essential care for Mathias.

The Long Road Ahead

The aftermath of the tackle has significantly impacted Mathias’s life and that of his family. The transition to living with quadriplegia poses countless challenges, and the Dantins are determined to fight for justice. With the upcoming legal proceedings, they seek not only accountability for the actions of the young attacker but also to raise awareness of the risks associated with rugby and the importance of player safety. The community has rallied around Mathias, offering support and hope, but the journey toward rehabilitation and adjustments requires substantial resources and determination.

Community Support and Solidarity

As Mathias and his family navigate this difficult chapter, the support from friends, teammates, and the broader community has been paramount. Initiatives like fundraisers are essential, not just for financial assistance but to remind them that they are not alone in this struggle. As the Dantins await the court’s decision, they hope for both justice and a greater emphasis on safety within the sport of rugby. The stark reality of the dangers posed in contact sports must resonate within leagues and organizations to prevent further tragedies. In an impactful moment, the words of encouragement seen on banners and shirts during matches continue to uplift Mathias’s spirit: “Courage Mathias.”