A tough outcome on a heavily debated topic, we all want rugby to reach its potential even though its on a slow decline. I love the thinking and logical ideas of GAGR faithful. We're the people coaching, playing, organising, spectating, parenting and volunteering on a variety of different levels (grassroots, elite etc.). I believe Raelene Castle and the ex-Wallaby captains both want, what we all want, the game to grow and achieve greatness with simply different ideas.
With that in mind looking forward, I'd like to see Rugby Australia avoid over middle management and take a really streamlined approach from here.
1. Make Rugby Union accessible to all children
- Get rugby union promotion in all schools, have club players going into schools and encouraging students and parents to sign up to local rugby clubs (this does not mean running a $300 Reds2Rookies session after school, and saves the hassle of running a school and club competition)
- Slash the registration fee's, cost is becoming a significant factor for all players
2. Fill the stands - makes the product better
3. Get on free TV - Foxtel/Kayo is becoming shambles
On a side note I'd like to see stronger affiliations with universities. I'm sure there's people on here with better ideas which I would love to hear! These key ideas may lead to a few years of not much significant growth and a financial hit short-term, but a temporary sacrifice for a long-term sustainable future.
I'm not a business man though, and I'm sure the new CEO role will be hard for whoever steps into the shoes.