Rugby Australia's debts blow out to almost $89 million after draw-down of PEP facility
Phil Waugh is hopeful that windfalls from the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour and the 2027 RWC will be more than enough to pay back the debt.
On reading that Pope John Paul II had his “heroic virtues” approved by the Vatican, I thought, does this mean in the future, rugby will have a saint? Because, amongst a bunch of noble deeds, a young Karol Wojtyła played for his national team of Poland, in rugby union.
The promising Saint and former Pope has had his path to sainthood fast-tracked by Benedict XVI, waving the five year waiting period for approval of heroic virtues, and some are saying he could be beatified within a year.
More importantly, Sainthood comes with patronage, and amongst other things, I’m sure the rugby union community could push for his patronage of the game he’s obviously enjoying playing up in heaven.
Currently the two Saints considered patrons of athletes and heavily followed for football are Saints Sebastian and Saint Christopher, respectively.
Both are third century martyrs who are also patrons to, among other things, protection and archers. It is common for some Catholic athletes to wear medals of these two Saints during play, as they are seen to protect them from injury during games.
Patronage for a Saint is appointed, through, the church and the representation of Poland in rugby is a part of Pope John Paul II’s life, so it would be quite befitting.
Of course, eventual sainthood for the late Pope may be well off into the future, but rugby will most likely exist then and be primed and ready to receive a patronage.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
Phil Waugh is hopeful that windfalls from the 2025 British & Irish Lions tour and the 2027 RWC will be more than enough to pay back the debt.
Australian-born England rugby star Billy Vunipola has been tasered and arrested after an alleged violent incident in Majorca, local reports have said. Vunipola's domestic…
Six months after the Wallabies’ worst World Cup result, Rugby Australia has announced a $9.2 million deficit from the 2023 season. The Roar can…
Sometimes it’s best to start at the finish. The Waratahs winning the Super W final 50-14 against the Drua was the cap to a…
After watching both NRL and Super Rugby over the weekend, it's clear there is significant talent coming through from both. But only one of…
The Tahs won 50-14 after going through the 2024 season undefeated and avenging the semi-final loss last year to Fijian Drua.