Effects of sociodemographic and player characteristics on baseline cognitive performance in 1000 rugby players: A retrospective 8-year follow-up study

Objectives: To analyze the effects of sociodemographic and player characteristics on the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool and neuropsychological scores over 8 years in a large sample of rugby players.

Design: An 8-year retrospective study of preseason clinical assessments of professional rugby players and players enrolled in training academies at professional clubs.

Methods: The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool-3 or -5, Trail Making Test and Digit Symbol Substitution Test were administered prior to the start of the competition season for each player. Statistical analyses included: (i) descriptive analyses of sociodemographic, player and neuropsychological characteristics; (ii) multivariate models to identify factors influencing cognitive scores at the first visit; and (iii) linear mixed models to assess the evolution of the scores over the years.

Results: One thousand players were included (mean age: 22.8, males: 92 %). Twenty-two percent of the athletes reported baseline symptoms. A higher level of education was associated with better cognitive scores at the first visit and over the years. Forwards had poorer processing speed performances compared to backs at the first visit and over repeated assessments. Finally, the number of examinations was associated with improved cognitive scores showing a practice effect on all the neuropsychological tests, except for the Standardized Assessment of Concussion 5th edition.

Conclusions: Results from this retrospective study could help to improve the management of athletes and return-to-play decision-making in collision sports.