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With the embers from the recently completed Super 14 still smouldering, it might be a good time to reflect on a subtle change that appears to be taking place. Is it me or is there a hint of ‘Americanism’s’ or ‘Americanisation’ associated with Super Rugby these days?
Perhaps it’s stating the obvious, and to quote Jerry Seinfield, “not that there’s anything wrong with that”. It just seems to be more obvious of late.
Many might argue that it’s just part and parcel of the professional era and modelling a successful formula is a no-brainer. But since when did we start using words traditionally associated with American sport to describe rugby?
The following are just a few examples that seem to becoming more noticeable of late, and there are most likely others that have surfaced also.
‘Franchise‘ has replaced province or State; semi-finals are now considered ‘playoffs‘; and the word ‘conference‘ is now used to describe the three competing countries.
Just wondering if this is a deliberate ploy, or like ‘creeping moss’, has crept into the game over time – or is that ‘ball game’ over time?
Culturally, it seems to be a shift in the way rugby is now described, and those that still prefer a meat pie smothered in tomato sauce over a hotdog with ketchup may become an endangered species at this rate.
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.