Siobhan, the family of Scotland’s international SiobhanCattigan, died last year. They have taken legal action against World Rugby and Scottish Rugby.
Cattigan, who had won 19 caps between 2021 and 2018, died in November at the age of 26.
Her parents, Neil, and Morven spoke out to the Sunday Times about their daughter’s suicide.
They believe that her brain injury from rugby led to mental decline and ultimately her death.
According to the Cattigans, Scottish Rugby did not properly implement protocols regarding head injuries and post-injury care.
After suffering brain injuries while representing Scotland, they said that their daughter’s personality changed in a dramatic and alarming way.
Neil explained to the Sunday Times that Siobhan was unable to bear the pain and gave up on rational thought and took impulsive actions.
Morven stated, “As time passed, it was like dementia, because I couldn’t imagine anything that would drastically alter a personality, something that completely alters your persona as a human being.”
“Siobhan was falling before our eyes, and something terrible had happened to her brain.”
Scottish Rugby said that although they acknowledged the seriousness of the family’s actions, they did not accept or recognize some of the allegations.
Cattigan, who had been a back-rower for Stirling County, made her Scotland debut in 2018 Six Nations. In September, Cattigan made her last Test appearance in a World Cup qualifier against Spain.
Robert Holland, Cattigans’ lawyer at Balfour+Manson LLP stated in a statement that the central question was whether the tragedy could have been avoided if the protocols for head injuries to protect players were followed.
“Claims were served on World Rugby as well as the Scottish Rugby Union.
“It is hoped that matters can be resolved so Siobhan and his family can finally get closure, and lessons can also be learned by rugby union’s ruling bodies.”
Scottish Rugby stated that the report was “challenging reading” and that a December written support offer “remains open”.
They stated: “We acknowledge that this has been a very distressing time… and if any of Scottish Rugby’s actions following Siobhan’s passing have made it more difficult, then please accept our sincere apologies.
“The published interview covers a large number of topics, which we are now carefully considering.
“We will be working with advisors and colleagues to understand the issues from their perspectives.”