Credit: Twitter/Kotaro Matsushima, Japan Rugby Japanese rugby fans learnt the national anthems of every single team at this year's Rugby World Cup. They stayed back hours after the final whistle to acknowledge their countrymen and to clean stadiums across the country, not because it was their rubbish, but because it was the right thing to do. They paid thousands of dollars, to get to games, all decked out in their Cherry Blossom Jerseys. And waited for hours on end outside every fan zone you could imagine, to get in early to support their beloved team. Showing tears, animation, companionship and devotion to a game and to people who are so lucky to have experienced the emotion and pride of their country. That's why Japan's 26-3 Quarter-Final loss to South Africa on Sunday was bitter-sweet. Sad because it meant that we had to say goodbye to such a valiant group but also sweet because of the fact that now we get to look back and marvel at their tenacious and stunning run, where they not only made history but became the world's favourite rugby team with their bravery and creativity. Coming into the tournament, Japan had never made the knockout stages of a Cup, they came so close in 2015 after winning three of their four pool matches but still weren't able to secure a top spot in Pool B even after their heroic win against the Springboks. But after building from their great campaign four years ago, they came back with the mindset that they were capable of taking on anyone in their way. They believed it and manifested the moment. They knew that it was theirs to take, and they came in and never held back. Credit: Rugby World Cup Twitter It all began with their 30-10 victory over Russia on opening night at Ajinomoto Stadium where a hat-rick of tries was showcased by outstanding winger Kotaro Matsushima, and their trademark team play by their culturally diverse team of players. From this game, Japan showed that they were going to be entertaining to watch. Their triumph against Ireland was another part of their sensational accomplishments to date on the grandest rugby stage. And an achievement that made us all think of the many things Japan has taught us on their Rugby World Cup journey. What makes it so special is that not once did Japan forget who they are or who they were playing for amidst their success. Their ability to dream no matter what their ranking or what history told them, inspired us all to also dream, to forget about the statistics and logistics and just believe. From looking after the planet, to looking after the brothers on either side of them, Japan taught us that greatness is truly better when you're celebrating it together with the people that matter most. They've conducted themselves with class and humility, bowing to the crowd and leaving every opponent with grace, one of the reasons why they are so respectable. Even with knee-high water blocking the tunnel of their training field, the Japanese ran out anyway after Typhoon Hagibis. Even when the odds were stacked against them, they carried on anyway. There will be many young and aspiring rugby players not only in Japan but around the world, who took something from the Blossom's incredible efforts to be heroes off the field as much as on it. And in the coming days, there will be a lot of reflecting, literally on life without Japanese rugby. Credit: Rugby World Cup Twitter As the dust settles, the players go their separate ways, - (back home or on holiday to enjoy their extraordinary year.) as the Rugby World Cup continues, and somehow these galvanizing moments of Japan float into the distance and become memories, we can be so thankful that we got to witness it all. Because moments like these are truly one for the books. They don't come very often but as fans, we always cherish them, and they give us magnificent stories to tell our children in the future.
From their impeccable hospitality and respect, Japan made this tournament theirs, without question. You might be thinking well, it was theirs anyway, they are the hosts. But you see, not everyone can make something their own. In life, you can't just be good at what you do by copying everyone else. Authenticity is what makes you an individual. And with any opportunity you have, it's about creating your unique purpose. Japan expressed this through every part of their being. Sharing their beautiful culture and following a different route to get to where they wanted to be. There may be no Japanese rugby to watch for now, but it gives us the chance to reminisce on these last four weeks that we'll never forget. They are what dreams are made of, why staying up during early hours of the morning are worth it, and why believing in something and following through with it should never be referred to as one in a million. Because we all have our chances, and like Japan only some decide to take it. Let's just hope that Japan continue to get what they deserve, through high level competition and more development in the sport that they have eternally contributed to. After their Quarter-final, Head Coach Jamie Joseph reflected on the last month and said "oh crikey, I need a beer." And after all of it, you deserve it Coach. As for us at this time, let's let this feel-good story simmer with the wish that the land of the rising sun will only continue to prosper.
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Photo: Made with help from Fotojet From memes, to movie references and answering journalist's phone calls during a conference, to some entertaining rugby. - Week two at the Rugby World Cup has had it all. Nothing can beat the beautiful singing of the Fijian team or the heart of the Brave Blossoms. And the second week, has seen more drama than Shakespeare. (Sorry Mr Roberson.) Here are eight of the best moments from the second week of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. THE SHOCK OF SHIZUOKA Japan struck again with an emphatic conquering of Ireland, who coming into the tournament, were ranked number one in the world. Across the whole nation of Japan, fans celebrated well into the night. The 19-12 victory in their second pool match, was just another sign that Japan remains well in the fight, and that they truly have arrived at this World Cup, ready to take on anyone. On any given night, it's hard to compete against an opponent who has so much confidence and will power, like the Blossoms owned. Down by nine, early in the game, the poise and patience they showed is something to be admired. As the future of Japanese rugby lauded from the stands, their team etched their name into history once again. The question is who is their next victim? Credit: Getty Images via Fox Sports Australia GOGGLE SAVEA MODE ACTIVATED All Black, Ardie Savea announced before New Zealand's pool match against Canada, that he would be wearing goggles for the first time to protect his eyes. After 'we want Ardie' chants, rattled the crowd in Oita, Savea came onto the field in the 70th minute. And became the first player to wear goggles in a Rugby World Cup match. His actions on and off the field, have made him a rugby superhero. He inspires everyone to pursue their passions no matter what their situation. Goggle Savea mode is fully activated and we are all here for it. WALES AND AUSTRALIA PLAY THE BEST MATCH OF RWC Some people may beg to differ, but as far as real seesaw contests go, Wales' four point win over Australia might've been the best game so far of the tournament. Wales flaunted their Northern rugby style with an opening field goal and looked to be in a comfortable position to win. But with some brisk passing and excellent decision making from Matt To'omua, the Aussies were able to break through Wales defence. They outscored the Welshmen in the second half but penalties and another field goal, by the men in red proved to be the deciding factor. It was such a great game, that you couldn't help but want it to continue after the final whistle. It was a showcase of two persevering sides going at each other. And there's nothing quite like a Northern and Southern Hemisphere clash. Michael Cheika wasn't very happy at the end of the match, but he's quite the character. And when your team had a genuine chance to win, the emotions are sure to come out. Wales Captain - Alun Wyn Jones also became the most capped player for his country, playing his 130th test. One of the greatest guys in the game and a deserved win to remember his special day. There's a chance that Wales and Australia can meet again if they make either the Bronze Final or Grand Final. If so, they'll be another opportunity for us to witness a compelling match-up. SEMI RADRADRA MAKES HISTORY Fiji's masterful winger, Semi Radradra crossed the try-line twice and made five clean breaks in his team's 45-10 triumph over Georgia. This was the most by any player during the match. After Fiji went down to Australia and Uruguay in their first games of the World Cup, they bounced back with Radradra leading the team as he ran the most metres by any player in the tournament so far, with 177. The former Parramatta Eel, wasn't only making fans fasten their seat-belts as he bolted across the field, but he was also producing opportunities for his teammates. Radradra had three try assists, setting up centre - Waisea Nayacalevu, half-back, Frank Lomani and right wing, Josua Tuisova. The thirty five point win means that the Island nation are adamant in securing third place in Pool D, which qualifies them a spot at the 2023 Rugby World Cup. BAPTISTE SERIN, SUPERB TRY AND SHARES BEAUTIFUL MOMENT A gallant effort by France in their bonus point 33-9 win over the United States, was made even better with the class of their half-back Baptiste Serin. He came off the bench to score a runaway marvelous try with ten minutes to go. This was his fourth try of the tournament in Japan. After the match, Serin shared a beautiful moment which got rugby Twitter choked up. USA lock, Greg Peterson brought his adorable baby onto the pitch after the game and Serin was there holding the baby's hand. It was an exceptional moment that shows the true essence of rugby. ANGUS TA'AVAO ANSWER'S JOURNALIST'S CALL Angus Ta'avao can break dance, he's got the jokes and as the Rugby World Cup media just found out, he can also be your personal assistant. Ahead of the All Black's game against Canada, Ta'avao was answering questions during a press conference when a journalist's phone started ringing. (I know you have that Kehlani song in your head..."ring, ring, ring, ring.") He answered it and asked the caller if they could call back in half an hour. Imagine calling someone and then having an All Black answer the phone. SOCIAL MEDIA CONTENT WE WANT AND NEED
The Rugby World Cup social media platforms are absolute fire. And whoever is taking care of them are doing an amazing job. After Japan defeated Ireland, the social media team posted a photo of a scene from the animated Spider-Man series, with the duplicate meme showing one Spider-Man wearing an Irish rugby jersey, and the other wearing a Springboks jersey. Then with the Barrett Brothers set to take the field together, the sisters of the horror movie, 'The Shining' were replaced with the faces of Beauden, Scott and Jordie Barrett. If your a film nerd, a rugby fan and meme enthusiast, then the World Cup's Instagram and Twitter accounts are for you. BARRETT'S, FIRST TRIO OF BROTHERS TO START RWC MATCH FOR NZ The Barrett Brothers are taking over the rugby world. The siblings started New Zealand's test against Canada together. They also scored a combined hat-trick, and became the first trio of brothers to start a test in a World Cup for the All Blacks. It was an incredible moment to see the brothers sing the national anthem of New Zealand, standing side by side. No doubt their family are extremely proud. Credit: AFP via RNZ The land of the rising sun, made its mark in rugby history when it opened its arms to the world. With the emerging rugby-loving country, becoming the first Asian nation to host a Rugby World Cup. As Japan's Prince Akishino and World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont officially opened the tournament, they promised to “make this the best Rugby World Cup ever.” Japan’s rich culture and ancient traditions were put on show in a vibrant and majestic opening ceremony. It had everything, from magnificent dancing to the beat of the taiko drums, over 300 children singing ‘World in Union’, fireworks and glimpses of rugby icons that graced the field. It was what everyone had been waiting for, and it was finally here - the largest occasion on the rugby calendar. If the Olympics is the greatest sporting event on the planet, the Rugby World Cup may be right next to it. Every four years, players, teams and fans travel far and wide to unite for this one tournament. The colour, diversity, scintillating moments, and inspiring stories, is what makes the tournament so special. And Opening Week, provided just that. Here are six of the best moments from the first week of the 2019 Rugby World Cup. URUGUAY STUN FIJI, WIN FIRST GAME IN 16 YEARS Sport has a way of creating such stirring moments, that you will treasure forever. Uruguay's monumental victory over Fiji this week was one of them. For a country, with a population of only three million people, the small South American nation had not won a World Cup rugby game since 2003. Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium, hosted the historic match, which is dedicated to remembering those lost in the devastating tsunami of 2011. It was truly a Cinderella story. as the underdog prevailed. The last time, these two teams met, Fiji won 68-7. But to be able to get a win, and their biggest one at a World Cup, was sensational. Emotional scenes of players, staff and fans filled the arena. An ecstatic and proud Uruguay captain - Juan Manuel Gaminara says "I'm really proud of my country. We're not the biggest, we're not the tallest, but we came here to win." It was the first upset of the World Cup, which has gotten everyone talking. Nothing can take this moment away from a strong-willed group of players that will remember this for the rest of their lives. And we will too. That's why we love the game. IT'S A WINGER'S PARADISE Every World Cup, there are new stars who jump onto the scene. Some the world has never seen before, some legends, and some we are able to witness the great arrival of. Opening weekend saw the incredible flare and lightning pace of the world's best winger's put onto display. There's something about the wing - that whoever is playing in that illustrious position just seems to always defeat the laws of motion. Across the park, the winger's were making waves. Japan's Kotaro Matsushima recorded the first hat-trick by a Japanese player in history. If you didn't know who Matsushima was before the tournament, well now you know. The underrated winger was dangerous with the ball in hand, using his speed to help his team gain confidence in their first match of the campaign. Despite it taking some time for Japan to get into their rhythm, Matsushima had a huge impact, losing defenders en route to scoring his seventeenth test try. This saw him win man of the match in Japan's 30-10 victory over a tenacious Russian side. South Africa's Cheslin Kolbe was just as brilliant. Kolbe was everywhere. His skillfulness under the high ball and impeccable acceleration got everyone excited. When the Springboks were down by more than ten points against the All Blacks in the second half, Kolbe took matters into his own hands and dashed towards the try-line. Despite not scoring a try, he ran circles and lines around defenders, and was almost like a human water ball. Kolbe ran 118 metres and beat 11 defenders in South Africa's first game. Damian Stevens is a half-back, but I just had to include him. He's a star on the rise, and his exhilarating performance for Namibia in their opening match against Italy, was something special. Stevens scored his country's first try of the tournament, crossing the line with a huge dive. He was always in support of his teammates, and though Namibia were defeated by Italy, his efforts didn't go unnoticed. All Blacks' rookies Sevu Reece and George Bridge showed such poise and passion, when they made their World Cup debut against old foe's South Africa. Excelling off a box kick, Reece made some tremendous clean breaks throughout the match and competed well under the ball. His teammate, Bridge made the most of every opportunity, using his impressive pace and looked like a veteran out there. He scored New Zealand's first try and doesn't look like he'll slow down anytime soon. As the World Cup continues, the winger's look to carry on their brilliant performances. RICHIE TAKES THE LAST GLANCE Legendary rugby player and former All Blacks Captain - Richie McCaw returned the Webb Ellis Cup, in all its glory during the Opening Ceremony. As he was revealed into the spotlight of Ajinomoto Stadium, the thousands of fans in attendance went crazy. McCaw walked with the famous trophy, acknowledging the crowd and then placing it on a stand. The two-time World Cup champion then walked away, but not without having a last look back at the golden prize he had worked so hard for. That moment, brought all the memories and emotions back - of not just the triumph, but also the heartbreak of the All Blacks' journey. That moment, represented the passing of the torch and something we'll never forget. JAPANESE FANS EMBRACE THE WORLD It hasn't been a week yet, but Japanese fans have already shown why they are some of the greatest rugby fans in the world. They've found ways to be a part of the action, and not only support their beloved Cherry Blossoms, but also other countries competing. Bak-San who is a rugby super-fan, says he will be painting all 20 World Cup teams on his body, instead of wearing a jersey. He's worn Japan, Argentina, Namibia, Samoa and there's more to come. A Japanese fan was also seen with the lyrics to the Irish national anthem, singing along as Ireland took on Scotland in their first pool match. And when Japan isn't playing, many Japanese fans have been spotted wearing the colours of the All Blacks, Wales, and many other teams. And what about that spine-tingling Haka from Japanese kids to welcome the All Blacks into town. It doesn't matter what game it is, or where it is because Japanese fans have been showing out in large numbers - showing that rugby fever is alive and well. Credit: Rugby World Cup Twitter PLAYERS ACKNOWLEDGING JAPANESE CULTURE Apart from putting on a spectacle during the first weekend, players have also been immersing themselves in the traditional Japanese culture. Whether it be learning the language, trying the new foods or dressing up in Japanese attire like Canada has done. There is immense respect between the Japanese people and the players, with teams showing their appreciation after their game by bowing to the crowd. It's a beautiful image and one that reveals the inclusiveness and of our game, and the reason why we love it. Credit: Mark Mitchell via Radio Sport FRIENDSHIP BETWEEN DAVID AND GOLIATH
The Rugby World Cup isn't just for the established rugby teams. The friendship between rugby stalwarts like England and small nations like Tonga is evident at this year's tournament. Tonga put three points up against England in their first encounter. But at the end of the game, what mattered most was seeing players from each side come together in prayer and carry on the ritual of exchanging jerseys. The first week has seen every team show respect for one another no matter where they come from in the world or what their ranking is. Rieko Ioane was always going to be an All Black. New Zealand’s greatest past time was built in his lineage. Running through his blood and engraved on his chest a future Silver Fern. Ioane grew up in the Central Auckland suburb of Mount Eden just five minutes away from the hallowed turf of Eden Park – the home of New Zealand Rugby and the fortress of the All Blacks. You’d think that his mother, former Black Fern Sandra, and his father Eddie, a former Samoan rugby international, couldn’t have thought of a better name for their son. The meaning of Rieko is “child blessed with logic.” And there’s no question that on the 18th of March 1997, the kid was born and he had a purpose. At just 21 years of age, Ioane has become accustomed to being raved about in the spotlight and having cameras surrounding him. He was scouted as a teenager whilst at Auckland Boys Grammar where he was a standout for the 1st XV; and at the tender age of 17 made his debut for the All Blacks Sevens. You could say that it was at that very moment that we witnessed the emergence of a rugby superstar. It may sound weird for us to say that we could foresee the future but even though it was hard to contemplate that Rieko was only 17, yes he was playing in a man’s world but at that moment – he was the Man. He’s already regarded as the best winger in the world and hasn’t reached his prime yet. He’s a juggernaut of the game and speedster. Two things that isn’t usually associated with each other. But behind the six foot two, breakthrough player of 2017 is a kid who used to get home after school and played touch in the backyard with his big brother Akira and the “bigger and cooler kids”. A kid who prides himself on his Maori and Samoan culture, who has shared a bedroom with his brother Akira for his whole life and has legions of sneakers that he likes to collect from Jordan’s to Yeezy’s. And just like any kid in a candy store, Rieko not only loves his shoes, he cherishes them and if you come from a big island family you’ll know that just like Rieko, when the Aunties, Uncles and Cousins come over you can’t but help but just want to give them the ‘stink’ ones. Its things like these that make Rieko one of the most relatable athletes. Young fans can connect with him on such a deep level because even though he’s a rugby superstar he is this genuine and pretty chill guy who isn’t afraid to show this in front of the camera. He’s quite a character with his media interviews, usually filled with laughter and jokes, like the time he was speaking to the All Blacks press with Blues teammate – Sonny Bill Williams and a photographer had been taking some close-up shots of Sonny. Rieko then asked the photographer: "Are you just gonna take photos of him? With Sonny then adding "Don't get too close bro, his nose will take out the camera". And on the field, he loves a good try celebration, something his teammates give him a bit of stick for. Whether it’s pumping his chest, jumping so high he could almost reach the first line of stands, or putting the ball over the line with one hand and the other in the air getting the crowd into it; there’s not a game that you’ll watch of Ioane’s that you don’t want to see again. Rieko’s also an avid NBA fan with his favourite non-rugby sports team being the Oklahoma City Thunder. It’s sometimes hard to figure what team rugby players actually support or if they’ve just jumped on the bandwagon. That’s because one day you’ll see them in a Lakers or Bulls singlet during training; and then in an Instagram post see them in a Cavs jersey. But if Ioane’s latest tweet is anything to go by then I think we can say that he truly is a Thunder fan. His last tweet was a reply to Steph Curry who welcomed DeMarcus Cousins to the Warriors by jokingly insisting that he’s now the third splash brother. Ioane showed his support for Lebron James tweeting “Yous won’t last the regular season you jokes.” Maybe a sign that like many Thunder fans he hasn’t entirely moved on from Kevin Durant’s decision. His go to meal is roast lamb with mashed potatoes and sauce, a dish that he says he cooks often with his Mum. And if you’re ever going to catch him watching a movie, it’ll most likely have Kevin Hart in it. He also says that he hates it when he gets mistaken for singer Trey Songz; and his ultimate travel destination is none other than the City of Lights – Paris. As a keen tourist being both in the Blues and the All Blacks fold it means he’s usually travelling to six different continents and eight countries throughout the year. Four of those countries being Australia, South Africa, Japan and Argentina where he travels to almost every week for Super Rugby matches.It’s a hefty schedule for a guy still at the dawn of his career but is gratifying nonetheless. Over the past months there has been news of potentially new contract deals for Ioane worth as much as four million dollars – money that is astronomical in the game of rugby. As Ioane continues to gain more opportunity on the global stage and looks to lead the Blues into the future, it can sometimes be difficult to know the real Rieko - because for Ioane there is more to life than just rugby.
There’s family, and behind it all, is a youngster who grew up playing water polo, basketball and competed in Athletics. An All Black who really is like any other kid challenging anyone to a game of fortnite. Ioane translates to John in English and means “God is gracious”. I guess he truly is a child blessed with logic, with a compelling life story and a humble heart. Donning the black jumper with the most sacred number 11 on his back, Julian Savea or the Bus as he was known was the closest thing to the Great Jonah Lomu we had ever seen. He was the master of the art of scoring tries and if you ever got to see him play, you knew you would never forget it. Julian Savea was always meant to be an All Black and a great one too. He could do things that no one else on the field could do and with an impeccable skill set, his bone crunching tackles, blistering speed and ridiculous strength were some of the many things that made him so special. Julian Savea made his debut for the All Blacks in 2012 against Ireland after winning the IRB Junior Player of the year award in 2010, It was a debut for the ages and the moment a superstar was introduced to the Rugby World. Savea scored a hat-trick and became only the seventh All Black to ever do so on debut. He joined some great company which included legends of the game such as Jeff Wilson, Christian Cullen and Sitiveni Sivivatu. He continued to dominate the game and after breaking records and placing his name among the elite, he became the greatest winger in the World and maybe even the greatest dancer in rugby. In 2015, three years after bursting onto the international stage, he helped New Zealand win back to back world cups and left fans across the world in awe during the quarterfinals against France when he bumped off three players one by one to get to the try line. It was one of those moments that will run through the minds of rugby fans for years to come. His rise and his talent meant that we never imagined him playing rugby without the prestigious black and white on or the All Blacks without Savea in it and we never wanted that day to come, at least any time soon. But after less than 3 years since Savea scored that miraculous try against France, he will be moving to France to play for Toulon in the Top 14 competition. It comes at a time when Savea hasn't played for the All Blacks since Game 3 of the British & Irish Lions Tour and sadly hasn't been able to earn a spot he once had. Being a huge fan of Julian, I always thought that despite him missing out on teams the past couple of years, that he still had a good chance of getting back into the All Blacks mix. But I guess it wasn't meant to be. Savea leaves New Zealand at the young age of 27, having played 54 test caps, recorded 230 test points, and played over 120 matches for the Hurricanes whom he won a Super Rugby title with in 2016. Now its easy to think about the many more things Savea could've achieved had he still been wearing that All Blacks jersey. Its almost ignorant of us to think about how Julian could've done so much more and been so much more with a resume like his. But I think that is a testament to his greatness and it makes us realise how lucky we really were to be able to cheer him on ever single night. His game was revolutionary for millennials or those watching in the Post Lomu Era. . His departure has seen many of his teammates and All Blacks Head Coach - Steve Hansen share their memories and pay tribute to him. And as he announced that he was leaving, he posted a heartfelt tweet to his fans, and the teams he's been able to suit up for throughout his rugby career in New Zealand. As Julian Savea looks set to embark on a new journey in Europe, I would like to say a huge thank you to him for everything that he has done. I still remember those Saturday nights, when the whole family would gather in the lounge and watch the All Blacks play, screaming at the top of our lungs for Julian as he charged down the field and scored another try. Or right before a game when the Haka was performed and you couldn't help but admire Julian's passion for the jersey and for representing New Zealand as he performed the Haka with great desire and pride. Or watching Julian in the sheds after the 2015 World Cup Final dancing and singing to Justin Bieber's 'sorry'. There are so many memories I have of watching Julian and just sitting there and thinking how does this guy do it. I'm sure fans across the World can tell you the same story. But I've got to say that my favourite memory of watching Julian play for the All Blacks was during the 2015 World Cup when he made something that seemed almost impossible, possible. With the ball in hand, he went complete savage mode and rammed into 3 Frenchmen on rout to scoring. Julian Savea scored a total 46 tries for the All Blacks and is only second to Doug Howlett on New Zealand's All-time try scoring list. His flair, physicality, and the love that he brought to the game in New Zealand will surely not be forgotten. And although we weren't able to say a proper farewell to him, not knowing when his last game for the men in black was, at least we still have the memories. It's a bit hard to explain but I like to say that if rugby was a royal rumble match, Julian would be the last one standing every time because of his ability to take anyone off their feet even when you least expected. And we can dwell on what he could've been but we can also be certain that what we will always know about Julian Savea, is that he was an unstoppable, extraordinary and destructive force that we are just grateful we were able to witness. And I guess he really was meant to be a hurricane too. So take care of him France, there's not too many players quite like him.
Over the past 5 months or so, Super Rugby bosses have been adamant that 3 teams were going to get the boot. South African franchises - the Cheetahs and Kings responded immediately and were welcomed to join the Pro 14 competition in Europe, and whilst Australian club the Western Force were also expected to receive the axing after the Australian Rugby Union Board had confirmed it, they continue to fight for their place in the league. Now you've got to feel for the team who ultimately will have nothing left to fall back on. Though before I continue, if you're a fan of a kiwi team or don't support the Western Force than you're probably thinking that their results over their 12 year history doesn't really give any reason for why they should stay, but let's just put this into perspective. Ever since the regular season ended in July, the Force have been at the forefront of rugby headlines. They've gained a huge wave of backing from their fans, the Perth community and even Australian billionaire - Andrew Forrest. And just by reading some of the articles you get a sense that what their fighting for is more than just rugby. Western Australian rugby will be lodging an appeal at the NSW Supreme Court in the hope of survival and a supporter rally will be held this Sunday and was notified by Twitter earlier today. What made me think was the reaction from fans when this tweet was posted. Messages like this "We'll be there all blued up and ready to go" #savetheforce For a country that doesn't live and breathe the game of rugby like us kiwis do, they sure do have loyal fans. And if the Force did lose their battle it wouldn't only be the players or coaches that would lose their jobs, but there would be doctors, chefs, administrators and whole lot of other people who work behind the scenes that will be left out to dry. Now you can look at it one way in that poor results on the field from the players have led to this or you can look at it in this way and say that losing a team like the Force would be diminishing so many opportunities for aspiring Wallabies and impacting on grassroots rugby in Australia. Because isn't that what we all talk about? Australia's grassroots rugby needs to improve, and I think that taking away a pathway like the Force would be a tragedy. Because as I sit here as a New Zealander who doesn't have to worry about my team getting shown to the door, Western Australian rugby are currently trying to get out of a hole and I think they at least deserve some sort of understanding. Their mantra – “Inaction is the same as acceptance” has shown that they will not give up because in fact there is more than just a rugby team that is worth fighting for. Left: Sonny Bill Williams of the All Blacks consoles South African mid-fielder Jesse Kriel after the 2015 Rugby World Cup semi-final. Just last week, I found myself reminiscing, imagining and taking in everything that had gone on during the British & Irish Lions Tour of 2017. I often tend to remind myself of those incredible moments, thrilling games and basically all the fond memories that are created and remembered after a big sports event like the Lions Tour, and it’s always the game of rugby that stimulates my love of sport. So with these thoughts in mind, I thought that it would be interesting to write an article about why I believe rugby is such a special sport and why there is no other game quite like it. 1. Comradery It’s quite funny because there’s a saying that goes “Rugby is a thug’s game played by gentlemen and football is a gentleman’s game played by thugs”. In some respects it’s actually true because I’ve watched glimpses of football and not just the players but the fans are very vocal and rowdy and don’t mind giving you a piece of their mind. Now I’m not saying that in rugby the fans aren’t noisy and vocal but they understand that losing isn’t everything and that you’ve always got to acknowledge your opponents. An example would be the shaking of hands after a game. Players from the British & Irish Lions and the Blues shake hands after the first match of the tour as the Blues secured a 22-16 victory. I just began watching the NBA properly this year and I noticed that after a regular season game and even after a playoff game (not including series deciders) the players don’t shake hands or congratulate each other but instead just walk back to the locker room as soon as the match is over. But in rugby after each game no matter if it’s a regular season game or a game that teams are playing for pride because they’re playoff hopes are diminished they always shake hands. Or if a player is sitting there dejected after a loss, you’ll usually find a player from the opposing team going up to them and lifting them up. A prime example would be after the 2015 Rugby World Cup semi-final when New Zealand had beaten South Africa narrowly and South African mid-fielder – Jesse Kriel sat disappointingly reflecting on what could’ve happened if his team had won. Out of nowhere his All Blacks opposite – Sonny Bill Williams came along and told him that everything would be okay and that he had a long career ahead of him to be able to celebrate and even win some world cups. Lions fans enjoy the game. But it's not only the players that have been shown to acknowledge their counterparts, but also the fans. During the Lions Tour this year there was an initiative put together called 'Adopt a Lion fan' and it gave the opportunity for kiwis to open their homes to Lions fans travelling to New Zealand for the tour. I don't know of any other sport where fans would do something like this. 2. Respect In rugby it's rare to see a player refuse to speak to the media or get angry during a press-conference. Even if a player is battered and bruised and all they want to do is just go home or go back to the hotel and rest, they still manage to use every last ounce of energy they have and respectfully answer questions by the media. Stephen Moore during a postgame interview after his team lost to the All Blacks in the World Cup Grand Final in 2015. 3. Equality/diversity Unlike other sports rugby promotes equality and diversity. Rugby is for people of all ages, genders, nationalities, sizes and shapes. Gender equality in rugby has grown over the years and coverage of women's rugby and sevens has increased and some even say that watching the women's rugby sevens is more entertaining than watching the men's rugby sevens. Countries are able to show the uniqueness of their culture through the platform of rugby and this is shown through the war dances performed before a game from countries such as New Zealand, Samoa, Tonga and Fiji. Also something pretty cool about rugby is that there is a position on the field for everyone. They're split up into the forwards and the backs. So for players who are stockier and stronger, they get put into the forward pack and that way they can do what they're best at there and for those players who may be really fast and agile, they become backs. This is different because in a sport like football, all the players are around the same size and usually have a small build. Australian women's 7s side claim gold after beating New Zealand in the final at the Rio Olympics 2016. 4. Global Unlike sports such as Gridiron, netball and rugby league, rugby is a global sport and therefore this creates for good competition. Although lately countries like Australia and South Africa haven't been doing well, teams from the Northern Hemisphere have proven that they are forces to be reckoned with. Especially after this Lions Tour where the Lions showed that the best team in the world are beatable and it made us even more excited for the Rugby World Cup in two years time. 5. Entertainment and skill of players Rugby is an entertaining spectacle with players showcasing amazing speed, flair and skill across the park. Whether it be offloads, steps, high-flying tries or just things that we have never seen before, rugby is a sport that will get you off your seat. Codie Taylor of the All Blacks pushes his way through the Samoan defence. The powerful and tenacious Manu Samoa were in town and they were facing an All Blacks outfit that had only been together for a week. The last time the two teams went up against each other was in 2015 in Apia when they played a historic match as the All Blacks stepped foot on Samoan soil to play a test for the very first time.
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