Thread: Rugby on SETANTA

Originally Posted by Fizbi

I thought that looked kinda strange!
I could have sworn that was done using digital background.

Pretty sure it's painted. Sometimes you can see them from cameras on the field (pitch?) and you can see how weird they look up close. I also think they show wear during the match. I'm going to have to pay more attention tonight.

Originally Posted by Fizbi

I've been watching rugby on FTA...
Man, what a rough sport. In two separate games, I saw no less than two ears torn off, left hanging by a thread.

The sport does not stop for commercials and barely, if ever, for injuries.

To me, these players are true athletes. Each player must be proficient in running, kicking, tackling, and taking serious beatings. At times, it makes professional football look like Sunday school.

I wonder why rugby never caught on here in the US?

Actually it is popular Club Sport at many colleges.

Not everyone has the skills to play their favorite sport in college and intramural sports are usally less challenging and less competitive than what may people are use to. Club sports fill the gap between college varsity sports and intramural sports.

USA Rugby is the national governing body in the US, they train the ref's, organize the leagues/divisions/etc, hold the playoffs, and so on. It is actually quite organized.

The downside to college rugby in the US is often the lack of adult supervision. A bit more participation by the college/universities would be beneficial.