Rugby Player Receives Support After Violent On-Field Assault

The Occitan rugby community has rallied around Noha Loubéty, a 23-year-old winger hospitalized after being deliberately struck in the head during a Regional 2 match on February 22nd. The incident, which occurred while playing for Séverac d’Aveyron against Maureilhan-Montady, resulted in a brain hemorrhage and required hospitalization at Purpan Hospital in Toulouse.

Details of the Assault

Loubéty was intentionally hit in the temple by an opposing player during a stoppage in play. Following an operation, his life is no longer in danger, and doctors anticipate no long-term psychomotor effects, despite a cranial depression.

Support from the Rugby Community

Mathias Dantin, a former player now quadriplegic after a rugby tackle in 2022, visited Loubéty in the hospital to offer his support. Dantin founded the association “Courage Mathias” to raise awareness about safety in rugby and combat violent acts on the field. He was joined by players from Stade Toulousain – Clément Vergé, Guillaume Cramont, Cyril Baille, and Paul Mallez – who extended their support to Loubéty.

A Gesture of Solidarity

The Stade Toulousain players presented Loubéty with a signed jersey and extended an invitation for him to attend a future match once he has recovered. Dantin emphasized that the visit focused on providing Loubéty with strength and the backing of the rugby family during this difficult time. France 3 Occitanie reported on the visit and Dantin’s efforts to advocate for safer play.

Ongoing Concerns About Safety

Dantin’s association actively campaigns “against injustices, and deliberately dangerous gestures on rugby fields.” The incident involving Loubéty has reignited discussions about player safety and the need to address violent conduct within the sport. La Dépêche du Midi covered the initial aggression and the subsequent support for Loubéty.