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R“ugby pathways are indeed open. It takes unmistakeable talent and hard graft, but success and international careers are within touching distance for those who are good enough and committed enough.
We’re talking proper, bona fide amateur levels here - and proper, bona fide legends of the game too. Again, if we stick with the Welsh connection and look at football, despite the admiration for the likes of Gareth Bale and Aaron Ramsey, could you imagine them playing competitively for a hometown amateur club (if they indeed ever had them) once their professional days are through? Again, it’s fair to say the answer would be “no.” The concept is absolutely inconceivable.
Rugby pathways are indeed open. It takes unmistakeable talent and hard graft, but success and international careers are within touching distance for those who are good enough and committed enough. Don’t get me wrong, the WRU shouldn’t pat themselves on the back too enthusiastically for this. You could write a book about the limitations and problems associated with regional rugby in Wales, and probably say that these pathways are there in spite of, rather than because of, the regional system. They’re there because of the nature of rugby union. An emphasis on honesty, hard work and a willingness to play for the love of the game...
ALL SHAPES & ZEBRAS FROM TREORCHY 57