Category Archives: Rugby

Rugby

2015 Rugby World Cup Tickets

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Is it too late to get your ticket for the 2015 Rugby World Cup? It isn’t if you have all the time or money in the world.

I’ve introduced and tracked a bit of the event as it nears, and it seems the enthusiasm surrounding it is at an all time high; tickets, now unavailable through official purchase through rugbyworldcup.com, are selling online for about $3000 (£2,000) and reaching sky-high prices of $30,000 (or £20,000). Most late-game purchasers are from England, the host country itself, but fans all over the world (the tournament spans the six major continents) are scouring wildly for an opportunity at low-costing tickets.

While some are complaining about the overwhelming time sitting on waiting lists (some having to wait over seven hours to see available tickets), others are more sympathetic to the organization, understanding that it is swamped with the unexpected influx of feverish fans. While a large batch of tickets was first released, newly available tickets are being sold on a first-come-first-serve basis, and the very high demand can scarcely be met by the unequal supply. With only five months between today and the start of the tournament, prices can only be expected to rise, and anybody who has followed the course of ticket prices knows that means scary news. Is there no limit to what people will pay to see the best squads compete for the Webb Ellis trophy?

For the 2011 Rugby World Cup held in New Zealand, ticket sales went on sale in late April for a tournament that began in September—when it will begin this year. That means fans are being held ticketless even with the association’s adjustment to allow for earlier sales.

Whatever the price, it looks as if some may have to wait until the tournament starts for more to be obtainable.

Rugby, Tom Cannavo

The State Of Rugby In The United States

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Rugby is not among the most popular sports in the United States and is not celebrated as much as it is in England or Australia but there is a strong contingent of fiercely loyal fans and players. The International Rugby Board classifies the United States as a growing market but still uncompetitive in international play.

It is, however, growing quickly as more and more youth are picking it up at an early age.

USA Rugby is the governing body that oversees rugby play from young men into professional, including college rugby which is the fastest growing segment of rugby union play in the United States. College rugby is not, however, part of the NCAA.

The United States holds the 1920 and 1924 Rugby gold medal but the decline in the sport’s popularity meant athletic talent went to play other sports. A slow increase in popularity in the 1960s and 1970s led to the formation of USA Rugby.

Though rugby was added to the 1900 Olympics it was discontinued after 1924, making the United States the reigning champions. This means international rugby play is very much in its nascent stages. The World Cup has only been held every four years since 1987. The U.S. has qualified for all but one and only 20 teams participate in the tournament each year.

But even with a sport growing in popularity and a decent national team, professional rugby in America has not faired well. Rugby Super League was USA Rugby’s attempt at creating a professional rugby championship with the U.S. The league lasted 15 years and ultimately couldn’t grow a big enough audience.

Women’s USA rugby has done very well, however, having a World Cup championship under their belt and six quarterfinal appearances in seven years of play.

The United States Eagles, as they are called, will be playing in this year’s World Cup  which will be held in England beginning on September 18th.

Rugby

Rugby’s Six Nations Starts Today

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Rugby’s Six Nations starts tonight and you should get excited because it kicks off with a classic. Beginning at eight o’clock Wales takes on England. Wales-England is a legendary rivalry and sure there are World Cup connotations but this match is about rugby and pride.

Six Nations is always important but this year it is the last international rugby championship before the World Cup.

The contest happens every year and always includes Wales, England, Scotland, Ireland, France and Italy. It is the oldest international rugby tournament and by far the most important annual tournament in the region.

Ireland which is seeing one of its highest IRB rankings in history at third is the team to beat. Last Year, Ireland won the trophy after tying in points with England, but earning more overall points. This year we are looking at an amazing contest, here are the teams:

England

England hosts the World Cup this year so it will be important to show their strength in the Six Nations. The team has very powerful forwards. Look out for a young and tough Billy Vunipola to intimidate and inspire the English fans.

Wales

Wales is always a potential winner in the six nations tournament. They won in both 2012 and 2013. George North is a winger for the Welsh with 21 tries in international play at just 22 years old.

Scotland

After making some changes and hiring a new coach from New Zealand, they are looking a little more fierce but not yet the feared team of old.

Ireland

Fresh off a Six Nations victory and playing some of their best rugby, Ireland is a force to be reckoned with. Paul O’Connell is a beastly 6’6 man with unnatural longevity that strikes fear into opponents

France

A team with a ton of talent but that hasn’t lived up to it. It will be interesting to watch however their tournament turns out.

Italy

Very small chance of winning the tournament but Sergio Parisse is a tough opponent.

Rugby, Tom Cannavo

The Top Countries For International Rugby

It’s 2015, The World Cup of Rugby is approaching. With that in mind let’s look at the top teams in International Rugby Play.

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New Zealand – A constant at the top of the world rankings, also known as All Blacks. The team has won two World Cups in the short history of the trophy. They are also the current champions.

South Africa – Also known as the Springbooks, South Africa is a feared opponent and and easily has the most storied history. Their first World Cup appearance resulted in a championship and was critical in helping the country out of apartheid.

Ireland – Recently jumping up in the rankings, The Irish team is seeing its highest ranking in history. It consists of both Northern Ireland and The Republic of Ireland.

England – With two World Cup Finals appearances and 26 Six Nations Championship victories, The English National Team is looking tough for 2015.

Australia – Also known as the Wallabies, Australia always seems to show up in the World Cup. They have won twice.

Wales – Another strong team, The Welsh also have 26 Six Nations Championship victories. Though they haven’t had the best showing in the World Cup, they are a force to be reckoned with.

France – France has a powerful team and have made the finals of the World Cup three times, losing all three times. They have only lost twice at home. This year’s World Cup is in England.

Scotland – The British are good at rugby, this much is evident. Their best showing in the World Cup, however, is fourth place.

Argentina – Not a country you associate with rugby, but they are internationally feared in the rugby world. As best team in the Americas by far their highest ranking was third in 2008.

Samoa – AKA Manu Samua. The country is well known for producing large athletic people and they love rugby. Just don’t ask them to play on Sunday, many are devout Christians.