What if Stade Toulousain revolutionized rugby training? The “Dropkick” is manufactured only a few kilometers from its training center. Used for 3 years already, it allows you to work on the aerial game. What are its risks? What are its virtues? Among the risks, the denaturalization of this sport. Indeed, the elders probably pride themselves on never having had the help of a “robot” to train. Also, how are you going to ask Joris Segonds to stop kicking 70 yards on Tuesday morning? The purists will undoubtedly be against such advances. They will have plenty of time to discuss this not far from a refreshment bar on Sunday afternoon.
On the other hand, for the most open-minded, it is a machine that can provide solutions. Firstly, the players’ muscle health, in particular, is at stake. Who hasn’t slammed a kick in practice? And what amateur full-back is not fed up with training under the sausages of his replacement opener? No more unnecessary breakdowns and make way for the American dream. Indeed, ball launchers have been used for years in the United States. In American football or baseball, the machine has already replaced man. The results are more than impressive. The exercises are always more precise and the quality of the training is no longer to be proven. Real progress or unnecessary investment? Everyone has their own opinion on a subject that could be talked about in the future.
