Jordan Kemp died after a suspected knock to the head.
A former All Black and the coach of teen rugby player Jordan Kemp, who died on Sunday from a suspected head knock, has called for an urgent forum to address the dangers of brain injuries in the sport.
Kemp, 17, had returned to rugby two months ago from a mandatory
stand-down period after being concussed earlier in the year.
"There has to be a forum - an open communication between the New Zealand Rugby Union, GPs, concussion experts, and ACC - so we've done everything possible to not get another tragedy like this," said Otamatea Hawks coach Dean Kenny, who played three tests for the All Blacks in 1986.
He suggested players returning from stand-down periods should have brain scans to check for scarring or micro-bleeding. "We need to address it ASAP and it all comes down to money. What is the price of life?"
On Saturday, Kemp, the Otamatea Hawks' hooker, chose not to wear the headgear that he initially wore when he returned.
