A problem that faces the rugby community, with the loss of support, is the loss of income which may come with it. This is generally covered through sponsorships and private wealth injections.
One area which I have realised that rugby falters with is the community acceptance of high rollers, and the exceptional fanaticism of big money fans.
In the A-League, you have Clive Palmer and Anthony LaPaglia. In the AFL, you have the biggest people acting as Chairmen. In the NRL, you have Russell Crowe.
But in rugby in Australia, you don’t see this as often as you should, especially as it is one of the strengths of rugby – that people with big money support it.
Sure we have recently seen Harold Mitchell introduced as the first private owner of a Super Rugby side and Kevin Maloney expressing interest in the Reds.
But this should have happened in ’95.
So what can rugby do to inspire this enthusiasm from its big earning fans?
That is a question which can’t simply be answered, as it requires an understanding of all types of people. All I can offer is an explanation on why some people like this must exist for rugby.
The link with the “establishment” is one which rugby in Australia proudly holds onto.
It is true that for, many years, the breeding ground for rugby greats have been the GPS and CAS. These same systems are also the homes and breeding grounds to the CEOs and Chairmen of the major business institutions in Sydney and Brisbane.
Whilst they have been taught to spend and gain money, they have also been taught to conserve money where possible, and this is what thought we have to change, not for everything, but just rugby and the general sports market.
This can be done through inspiration and cultural introduction.
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.
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