### Tragic Death of Teen Highlights Dangers of "Run It Straight" Game

In Palmerston North, a 19-year-old New Zealander has tragically passed away following a severe head injury incurred during a social-media-inspired game of "run it straight." The young man, identified by local media as Ryan Satterthwaite, succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on Monday.

The game, which involves one participant attempting to tackle another who carries a ball, has gained popularity online. Despite its roots in casual play in Australia and New Zealand, the recent surge in its popularity has attracted significant safety concerns. "We urge anyone contemplating participation in such games to consider the serious risks of injury," said police spokesperson Ross Grantham in a statement on Tuesday. "This unfortunate incident underscores the inherent dangers of this activity, even when played spontaneously among friends."

"Run it straight" has seen an uptick in engagement, particularly among young men and students, who post videos online showing them charging at each other while friends look on. In several cases, participants have been seen losing consciousness after collisions. The growing trend has led to organized tournaments, such as the Runit Championship League, which made its debut in Auckland this month and drew over 1,000 spectators.

During these events, some participants sustained injuries, with one video capturing a man appearing to have a seizure post-collision. Despite the evident risks, organizers of the Runit Championship League are planning another event with an even larger prize next month.

Kimami Ngaluafe, who organizes another "run it straight" event known as Up the Guts NZ, praised the game’s deep roots in New Zealand’s culture, attracting players from as young as five to men in their forties. However, he also emphasized the necessity of safety measures, suggesting that players wear protective headgear and have spotters to prevent head injuries. "Every day, kids in New Zealand engage in this game. They need proper guidance and safety instructions," Ngaluafe said.

The Maori Party of New Zealand has echoed these safety concerns, describing Satterthwaite's death as a "warning shot to all of us to fall in line" with proper safety guidelines.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential danger inherent in such physical games, stressing the need for heightened awareness and precautionary measures to prevent future tragedies.