The Stellenbosch Experimental Law Variations…A few observations.
These laws must be introduced for the right reasons, and so far, I suspect, the IRB have not shown their full hand. They say they want to attract more people to the game.
You attract more people to a game by ensuring it is run in a fair, structured, safe and enjoyable manner. You attract more people to a game by treating everyone with respect, decency and intelligent discourse. You attract more people to the game by allowing free expression, be that through physicality, pace, awareness or skill. You attract more people to the game by fostering a hospitable, friendly, competitive atmosphere where ever the game takes them.
The Stellenbosch ELV’s will not attract more people to Rugby Union. Introducing 13 new rules for one mad confusing season is the two fingers to the clubs, schools, coaches and volunteers and supporters who enable the game. I just can’t get my head around it.
Rugby has evolved continuously since turning professional. New systems, innovations and free-thinking have changed the way the game is played. Let law changes occur organically and when needs be. Not change for the sake of change and few more TV dollars. Rugby is better than that.
I’m open to change, and if any of the new laws change the ambiguities around certain areas of the game then great, let’s change. However the manner in which the ELV’s have been introduced and the political system that has pushed them through stinks.
A bit more honesty and transparency would be nice.
3 Comments
May 6, 2008 at 6:24 pm
Couldn’t agree more…but with me it’s a case of preaching to the converted :)
May 7, 2008 at 5:51 am
The idea of preaching the gospel of rugby to increase interest worldwide is a great idea. The ELV’s are a really poor tool to accomplish that goal. I don’t think it has made the Super 14 matches any better to watch this season.
May 7, 2008 at 12:45 pm
Bang on Steve…Forie Du Preez said as much in a number of press conferences and interviews. He has been pretty outspoken on the whole thing. Personally I am just so skeptical of the voting process that I can’t take the changes seriously.