Its a long article, and quite interesting - though I do wonder to what extent articles concentrating on the players' looks are a good or bad thing. I guess its necessary at least counter the stereotype that Orla Brennan talks about (and one that is not restricted to rugby by a long way) but I can't say that I'm too comfortable about it. What do you all think?
Or what about this article on the new blog being written by the Swedish national team's captain (in Swedish - but the link should be a translation)
Admittedly these are probably more positive images, at least so far as recruitment is concerned, than this growing collection of images compiled by Scrumhalf Connection - makes Hayley's eye seem a very minor injury!
I think the articles great and gives an insight to the diversity of people, together with the challenge and efforts required playing catch up and trying to complete with the likes of England/RFUW with their superior resources.
ReplyDeleteAn equally interesting article was in the Irish Times with the headline "Honesty of effort,truth and integrity=Grand Slam". I think this typifies why with limited resources Irish Provinces and National teams are dominating, together with a speedy improvement in the womens fortunes, where they have just had their best 6N.
My opinion is that this approach isnt contained within upper levels of junior and senior rugby here, where "friends and family" bias prevails in selection. There are players outside of TDG, Regional, ETC, and other "elite" selections better than those in them who arnt getting their development seen.