Eye colour, visual reaction time and accuracy in rugby league players

Abstract

Subjects with dark eye colour are thought to perform better on reactive tasks in comparison to light-eyed subjects, whereas light-eyed subjects show enhanced performance over dark-eyed subjects on self-paced activities. This study examined reaction time using unrestricted and peripheral vision and success at the self-paced activity of goal kicking in 59 elite male Rugby League players. Subjects with dark eye colour did not react significantly faster than the light-eyed subjects when tested using unrestricted vision or peripheral vision. Examination of the self-paced activity of goal kicking showed that the percentage success rate was not significantly higher in the light-eyed group than the dark-eyed group. In conclusion, there was no significant difference in reaction time to a visual stimulus or success in goal kicking between dark- and light-eyed Rugby League players.