Warburton explains why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots: Former Wales captain Sam Warburton has detailed his views on how the Welsh Rugby Union should spend their resources.
why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
The 35-year-old recently explained on the BBC why he thinks the WRU should prioritize spending on professional teams rather than grassroots rugby as it will generate more interest in the game.
As a guest on RPTV’s The Big Jim Show recently, the former British and Irish Lions captain expanded on those views, taking inspiration from the NFL and Premier League and how top teams spend their money.
In 2024 : Warburton explains why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
“Maybe naive people will say ‘You have to invest at the grassroots,'” he said.
“I was like, ‘Really?’ Is investing in four or five year olds going to change the game now?
“You can go to as many schools as you want, they won’t care if there’s no product to look at.
“So I think with Welsh rugby, if you’ve got a successful national team and you’ve got a successful region, then guess what, all the young people watching will think ‘this is a pretty sexy game and I want to play it. Do it. That’s going to be the next icon and role model, that’s me.’
There was a good team in Cardiff in the late 90s when Cardiff were in the European Cup final, Wales won the Grand Slam in 05, I thought ‘I want to be that guy.’
In 2024 : Warburton explains why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
So when people think it goes bottom-up, you actually flip it, it comes top-down. why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
In 2024 : Warburton explains why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
“I always think you have to invest in your professional game first and foremost. Look at England in ’03, when they won the World Cup, I can bet you because if they won the World Cup the engagement would fly and the interest would fly in rugby clubs around the country. How many children were probably cupping their hands, kicking goals in their local park because they wanted to be Jonny Wilkinson. why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
The product. If the product isn’t good, people aren’t going to buy it. You have to focus on the product, and this is rugby, it’s a professional game.”
why the pro game needs to be prioritized at the grassroots.
Prioritizing professional-level sports over grassroots initiatives is a controversial topic with valid arguments on both sides. Here are some reasons why some may argue for prioritizing professional sports:
- Economic Impact: Professional sports can have a significant economic impact on a region or country. They generate revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and tourism. Investing in professional sports can stimulate local economies and create jobs.
- Global Recognition: Professional sports often garner international attention and can contribute to a country’s global reputation. Success in professional sports can enhance national pride and serve as a platform for cultural exchange and diplomacy.
- Talent Development: Professional leagues serve as the pinnacle of athletic competition and provide opportunities for elite athletes to showcase their skills. Investing in professional sports can incentivize talent development programs and infrastructure, ultimately benefiting the broader sports ecosystem.
- Inspiration and Role Models: Professional athletes often serve as role models and inspire younger generations to pursue sports and lead active lifestyles. The success stories of professional athletes can motivate grassroots participants and contribute to the growth of sports at all levels.
- Entertainment Value: Professional sports offer high-quality competition and entertainment for fans, which can drive engagement and support for the sport. This popularity can trickle down to grassroots levels, attracting more participants and spectators to local leagues and events.
However, it’s important to note that prioritizing professional sports over grassroots initiatives can also have drawbacks. Neglecting grassroots development may limit the long-term sustainability and inclusivity of sports, as well as hinder access for individuals from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Therefore, a balanced approach that prioritizes both professional and grassroots sports is often ideal for fostering a healthy sports ecosystem.