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<blockquote data-quote="aubie95" data-source="post: 295905"><p><div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (snoopy snoopy dog dog @ Dec 26 2009, 08:44 AM) <a href="http://index.php?act=findpost&pid=428965" target="_blank"><{POST_SNAPBACK}></a></div></p><p></p><p></p><p></p><p>The idea has some merit but I think it's flawed. I'll post my opinions on an alternative to the above idea in a bit but I'd like to hear other opinions first. </p><p></p><p>In short, how would you attempt to grow the sport in the USA and North America in general?</p><p>[/b]</p></blockquote><p></p><p></p><p>Most important thing IMO is exposure to the first class matches! Why in the world do you (IRB) expect to grow the sport and attract new fans by putting your product on pay-per-view only? That is fine for the hard-core fans that already want to see tri-nations, premiership, etc. but what about getting new fans? There are dog shows and poker on ESPN every night! Very short-sighted business model.</p><p></p><p>Once people see the All Blacks, 6 nations, etc. they will want to know more about local rugby watching/playing opportunities. Then perhaps the USA Super League or other Unions will get some momentum. Until then I really don't see it being anything other than a niche sport. It is no reach to say that European soccer on US networks such as ESPN and Fox Sports has helped generate more interest in the MLS.</p><p></p><p>On the other hand, Sevens has now positioned itself to leap the 15-a side game in the US with the inclusion in the Olympics. This opens up USOC funding across the country, as well as medal opportunities to motivate high school and college football players to continue their playing careers by transition after graduation into the rugby game.</p><p>[/QUOTE]</p>
[QUOTE="aubie95, post: 295905"] <div class='quotetop'>QUOTE (snoopy snoopy dog dog @ Dec 26 2009, 08:44 AM) [url='index.php?act=findpost&pid=428965']<{POST_SNAPBACK}>[/url]</div> The idea has some merit but I think it's flawed. I'll post my opinions on an alternative to the above idea in a bit but I'd like to hear other opinions first. In short, how would you attempt to grow the sport in the USA and North America in general? [/b][/quote] Most important thing IMO is exposure to the first class matches! Why in the world do you (IRB) expect to grow the sport and attract new fans by putting your product on pay-per-view only? That is fine for the hard-core fans that already want to see tri-nations, premiership, etc. but what about getting new fans? There are dog shows and poker on ESPN every night! Very short-sighted business model. Once people see the All Blacks, 6 nations, etc. they will want to know more about local rugby watching/playing opportunities. Then perhaps the USA Super League or other Unions will get some momentum. Until then I really don't see it being anything other than a niche sport. It is no reach to say that European soccer on US networks such as ESPN and Fox Sports has helped generate more interest in the MLS. On the other hand, Sevens has now positioned itself to leap the 15-a side game in the US with the inclusion in the Olympics. This opens up USOC funding across the country, as well as medal opportunities to motivate high school and college football players to continue their playing careers by transition after graduation into the rugby game. [/QUOTE]
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