Hi Joker
I agree but why is it not resonating with our young players ? It is a fairly "elitist" saying however union doesn't seem to promote it enough ? Union is played more and at a more competeitive level internationally, broader opportunities ( 7,s, Olympics (m/f), bigger world cup, ) and more corporate money at the top end, however struggles to capture and KEEP the hearts and minds of young players.
At club level ( juniors, shute shield ) in some areas it thrives and is well supported but it is mainly voluntary and not sustainable in the long run. Good coaching at junior level is essential for players and parents. If the player gains knowledge and enjoyment from the game and the parent sees this, they are more willing to return. Also, 'rep' selection teams at ages 12-14 and even 16, should be very loosely picked. What I mean by this is that it should not be as competitive. Players body shapes,fitness and a lot of other things can/do change greatly from 10/12 to 16. If a player is "not selected "for rep teams at 12/14 then they may decide to give up the sport. Now, this an attitude thing for the player/parent to overcome however if not explained correctly ( your too small, or not good enough ) then it may be and probably is all over.
This can't be just a "private" school thing. As mentioned before, the Ella brothers etc from LaPa etc, played. The rego for juniors is much higher than League ( and I think afl ? Not soccer ) which may be a hurdle. ( Socio-Economic ). Promotion of the sport in ALL schools ( not just private/elect) is a must. That is a ARU/StateRU area.
Education/Promotion of the oppoortunities offered by playing Rugby is a must to young players at the u/14-18 age group. I don't know if this is done, but if it is, it needs to be better as the case above shows.
Pathways need to be better understood by players and parents. Just because the player goes to a "private" school, does not mean they'll come out an academic. Union should try to help them with life after school ( ie; higher edu, trade etc ). League does this very well. This is esp enticing for parents.
Admin needs to be smart/business. I don't know who runs a lot of the Union clubs but explayers don't always make great administrators ( and not I'm not insinuating a lack of intelligence ). Nick Politis is a successful business man and CEO. He seems to know how to promote and poach young rugby players. Why can't there be someone similar in RU ? Why can't Randwick, Gordon, Waratahs, Brumbies, Wallabies have people like this ? I know there have been some in the past, but lately there seems to be a lack of personel. These are the type of people RU need to attract and run the clubs. Please give your thoughts/correct me if I'm wrong.
Wyverboy