William Grant & Sons’ Post

#BlowtheWhistle - As the New Zealand Rugby Board, resists the idea of a Pasifika voice at its governance table, should we be asking of ourselves these uncomfortable questions of them and us? Is Rugby, much like other institutions, who have utilised our Pasifika sinews and bones, forged on the moana, as simply a commodity, and as it has seen fit? That Rugby institutions, like other institutions have set parameters around our ability to self-determine what that is, where that is, for who and for how much - muzzling our voice to ultimately benefit just themselves their Unions and TV channels? In fact, one could suggest that rugby, this iconic piece of New Zealand consciousness, is a microcosm of the kind of control and benefit driven by capitalism, and profit that our moana bodies have given from factory floors to rugby fields, and that we have given them like we have done, sadly, with our children’s bodies in State and Faith care - both abused by a system we trusted? We as people of the moana, I also question, have we participated in this, and are we entirely victims in this whole transactional process? Why do we readily give up our sons and daughters to sport, to schools, communities, workplaces and faith communities that at times do not give them the opportunity to grow and build and move on or up as they see fit and determine? And for the few that do succeed, we hear of them, we hold them up, we celebrate them, and so we should. But if our aspirations, especially of that initial migrant moana community, were so this very small, tiny piece of us would know and understand success - then maybe we need to ask ourselves, as to whether that is a true collective measure of success? And finally, the institution of NZ Rugby demonstrates what it actually believes about our bodies, our sons, our daughters and our many years and levels of contribution to the sport of Rugby. When it closes the door on our voice and does not allow our seat at the Rugby governance table...Have we not earned it..because we don't want to just be on the field and wall...we also want to be at the table? #PacificGovernance #PacificVoices #PacificPlayers #ManaseToa

It is now less than 40 days to go until Men’s Rugby World Cup France 2023 and the fantastic news is that I will be going in an official media capacity representing RugbyAsia247. We actually found out our application as accredited media was approved some months ago and were hopeful by now we would know exactly which matches we would be attending in France but it's still an anxious wait which means all planning for accommodation and logistics is still on hold while World Rugby organises through the process. Regardless, my emotions remain a swirling mix of excitement, pride, nervousness and apprehension. Rugby Asia 247 was founded in 2019 before the RWC in Japan - really as a passion project as I could identify massive gaps in the media landscape covering this sport in the region, and although I think we have done a good job in promoting all levels of rugby in Asia, some of those blatant gaps still exist in providing the coverage this sport deserves in the most culturally and geographically diverse region playing rugby. As independent media, we have never been afraid to ask what we think are the right questions - of governing bodies, of teams, of coaches & players, of the administrators that should be driving and growing the sport. Commercially, like all independent sports and rugby platforms, we face a giant wall of obstacles but more often than not it has been sheer passion and determination with the undeniable help of a few invisible hands that have made this work. We have attended the Dubai, Singapore, and Hong Kong Sevens as media (several times), as well as the RWC Sevens in Cape Town. We have covered a range of Asia Rugby tournaments and many social and developmental programs in Asia. We have interviewed some of the leading figures in the game. RWC 2023 will be an expensive endeavour and we hope we can count on your support as we hope to bring content that appeals to an audience in Asia passionate about this sport and still engage with fans of rugby no matter where in the world you are reading. If you would like to support us - We have advertising packages available and will be pushing out our newsletter soon. If you already support your preferred local independent rugby news outlets and journalists and other independent media, we thank you too. We are constantly in discussion with potential partners, commercial players, Unions and others to ensure we continue to Tackle Asia’s Rugby. Thank You. PS - I'm fairly sure Im the only person attending from Cambodia as Media! #RugbyAsia247 #rugbymedia #RWC2023 #rugbyunion #rugby

Wales and Ireland (Rugby Union) will never play each other in their traditional red/green colours again. It is great to see that World Rugby is implementing rule changes to help the viewing experience for colour blind supporters. However, I would urge teams that this will affect to consider the impact on performance of changes in colour. I am sure we all remember the disasterous grey kit worn by Manchester United back in 1996 (well, worn for half a game anyway). This has not stopped them from re-adopting a grey away kit in more recent years but what impact does it have on a players ability to spot their team-mates? I am a strong believer in making your players as visible as possible while on the pitch so this involves wearing kit of a high contrast to both the opponent, and surroundings. I also think that training in the same colours in the build-up to a match helps players 'tune in' to what they will be scanning for on game day. However, much of this is overlooked by big clubs in favour of kit that will sell well in the club shop, and training kit which makes a statement - presumably to also prompt fans to fork out their cash. There will always be conflict in sports between performance outcomes and money makers and kit colour will often be decided upon by those with a finance hat on. #colour #color #sixnations #ireland #wales #rugby #manchesterunited #siralexferguson #football #highperformance #performancevision #sportsvision #sportscience https://lnkd.in/e9AaR5S7

Just one week after the end of a very exciting Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, it's interesting to see the study from EY in England and where rugby stands among the Gen Z population (those born between 1997-2012). Rugby, a superb game invented over a century ago, finds itself facing numerous challenges in the modern era. The lack of commercial appeal is evident as clubs and competitions around the world continuously face financial difficulties, with some even becoming insolvent (Wasps, Worcester, London Irish, IOM, to name a few..). This concerning trend extends to unions (some of them competed in the Rugby World Cup 2023...), highlighting the urgent need for change. Rugby is a fantastic team sport with the potential to transcend boundaries and reach new heights, captivating the hearts of a REAL global audience. World Rugby as the governing body of the sport, must take bold decisions and implement transformative changes. Opening up rugby to give fair chances to emerging countries is paramount. Only by providing opportunities and genuinely supporting developing nations, they can unlock the true potential of rugby worldwide. Only with a complete revampe of the international competitions, making them more attractive and unpredictable, they can generate the excitement and captivate the attention of new audiences and consumers. Engaging the younger generations is essential, and it requires a bold communication plan too to break through the barriers that prevent rugby from reaching new minds. It's crucial to leverage digital platforms, social media, and other innovative strategies to create a dynamic and interactive fan experience. By embracing technology and new media, rugby will be able to bridge the gap between the traditional values of rugby and the digital age. If World Rugby fails to act now in this direction the sport will be heading for failure.

Last night's rugby match between the Irish and South African teams was nothing short of exhilarating! As an Irish spouse married to my amazing South African partner, I had the privilege of experiencing the game from two different perspectives. Being in a mixed-nationality household, we often find ourselves cheering for opposing teams. It adds an extra layer of excitement and friendly rivalry to our relationship. Last night, this dynamic was on full display, as we donned our green and gold jerseys and settled in for an intense showdown. The Irish team once again emerged triumphant, securing a hard-fought victory over their South African counterparts. While the outcome might have been disappointing for my spouse, it reminded us of an important aspect of the professional world – the power of allies. In the world of business, we often find ourselves in competition with other companies, teams, or individuals. But just as in last night's rugby match, where my spouse and I were supporting opposing teams, we can also find allies in unexpected places within the professional world. These allies can come in the form of partnerships, collaborations, or even friendships with individuals or organizations we initially perceived as competitors. Much like the camaraderie between players from different teams off the rugby field, building alliances can be a strategic move that benefits everyone involved. In the corporate landscape, forming alliances can lead to innovative solutions, increased market share, and mutual growth. It's a reminder that in a world where competition is fierce, sometimes the most powerful strategies involve working together with those who might have once been considered adversaries. As we celebrated Ireland's rugby victory and reflected on the power of allies, it reinforced the idea that success in both sports and the professional world often depends on the strength of our relationships and the ability to unite for common goals. So, whether it's on the field or in the boardroom, remember that the bonds we build with others can be the key to unforgettable victories and lasting success. #Teamofus #IEZA 🏉

WOW, What a weekend of rugby! 🏉 Ireland vs. New Zealand was a great game but I wasn't prepared for the intensity of the France vs. Springboks match! I could hear my South African neighbours screaming through the walls; I can only imagine what it must have been like for those fans inside Stade de France. The strength, skill, and determination on display was genuinely captivating. As someone who always has an eye for sponsorships, I make a mental note to ask myself which brands left a lasting impression on me after the game. One that truly stood out was DEFENDER. The synergy between the qualities the players showcased on the pitch and everything I associate with a Land Rover Defender – tough, strong, determined, and skillful – was perfect. Not everyone believes values can transfer seamlessly between partners, and I agree in many cases. However, when values do align, it acts as a supercharger to any partnership. Hand on heart, after seeing this sponsorship, I am genuinely more inclined to consider a Defender as my next car. Sponsorship works, who knew, right!?!?!?! What intrigued me about this sponsorship was the use of the Defender brand instead of Land Rover. This is part of JLR’s new ‘House of Brands’ strategy to market Range Rover, Defender, Discovery, and Jaguar separately. Some car dealers worried it might confuse customers, but I think last night's match and the ongoing Rugby World Cup sponsorship reinforced the values I personally associate with Defender. Values I don't not necessarily link with other JLR brands like Range Rover, Discovery, and Jaguar. Defender also activated their partnership in the UK by sponsoring ITV’s coverage of the Rugby World Cup. Perhaps that's why the partnership particularly stands out in my mind. For those of you who have been following the rugby, I'm curious – which other sponsors can you recall off the top of your head this morning??? Roll on next weekend!🏆#rugbyworldcup #Defender #SponsorshipMagic ✨ #branding #sponsorship Rugby World Cup France 2023

Embracing change! A lesson from the Rugby World Cup!   South Africa’s recent Rugby World Cup game in their new 'Checkers' or ‘Listerine’ turquoise coloured kit has sparked quite a debate. Many are raising eyebrows at the departure from the traditional green and gold we've known and loved. But here's the thing about personal branding and embracing change.   Tradition is wonderful! Green and gold are iconic, and they will always have a special place in our hearts. However, an alternate strip is meant to be just that - an alternative for situations where the clash of colours is inevitable. Take a look at Liverpool Football Club, for example. They proudly sported a ‘Listerine’ green alternate kit not too long ago, alongside their signature red, without causing a commotion.   So, why all the fuss? Change can be unsettling, and we tend to resist it at first. I remember when night cricket was introduced, and players and fans alike despised the coloured cricket kits. They were even dubbed "pyjamas" and I, for one, was known as the "pyjama queen." Fast forward, and it's now an integral part of the game. Change is a natural progression.   Let’s challenge ourselves to accept change and be open to new ideas. Our 'Checkers'  or ‘Listerine’ kit might look awful to some, but it's also an opportunity to explore fresh perspectives. Personal branding evolves, just like everything else. It's about adaptation, innovation, and creativity.   I know what you are all thinking! Huge, strapping South African hulks shouldn’t even be seen dead in Turquoise. My question, Why Not?   In the end, it’s not just about the colours we wear, it's about the spirit, passion, and unity that we bring to the game. So, let's celebrate our heritage and welcome the 'Checkers' kit with open arms. After all, it's just a reminder that we're constantly evolving, both on and off the field. Intune Communications and Entertainment Nike Canterbury South African Rugby Union (SA Rugby) adidas Radio 702 News24 South Africa   #EmbraceChange #RugbyWorldCup #PersonalBranding #SouthAfricaRugby  

Rugby rights holders want to know which categories to prioritise when selling sponsorship - so which categories are they most likely to do a deal with? 🏉 📈 ☎ Landline Telecoms lead the way, at 9.45x more likely to do rugby #sponsorship than any other type of rights holder. This is driven by deals like... - BT Group x Cardiff Rugby, Ospreys Rugby Ltd, Newport Rugby Club Pty Ltd and Scarlets Rugby - Virgin Media x Munster Rugby 🚄 Rail & Road is the second most over-indexing category, driven by a wider range of providers. These include... Train companies - Lumo x Newcastle Falcons Rugby Club - Hull Trains x Hull Kingston Rovers Rugby League Club Bus companies - First Bus x Leeds Rhinos Rugby League Club Taxi firms - Veezu x Bath Rugby - Uber x New Zealand Rugby Car rental brands - Europcar x Leicester Tigers Want to see the Top 15 categories most likely to sponsor #rugby? 👉 https://lnkd.in/eVwgQYin #sportsmarketing

 Wheelchair #Rugby……on Grass? In February 2024, before the 6 Nations match between Scotland and England, the very first Wheelchair Rugby game to be played on grass will be played at Murrayfield. In the world of #sports, inclusivity knows no bounds, and being able to play wheelchair rugby on grass is no exception. Would you like to join the ThirdEYE International Sports Consultancy in paving the way for adaptive sport development? Here's why your #business should consider sponsoring an adaptive rugby wheelchair….  Changing Lives  Accessible sports like wheelchair rugby offer individuals with mobility challenges an #opportunity to experience the thrill of competition and camaraderie.  Fostering #Inclusivity By sponsoring adaptive wheelchairs, businesses contribute to creating an inclusive society where everyone, regardless of ability, can participate in sports.  Supporting Dreams  These wheelchairs become a tool for aspiring athletes to chase their rugby dreams, building confidence, and opening doors to new opportunities.  Building Brand Values  Sponsoring adaptive sports aligns businesses with values of inclusivity, social responsibility, and community engagement, enhancing their brand reputation.  Be a Game-Changer Your sponsorship can be a game-changer for athletes who dream of making their mark in the world of rugby on grass.   If your business is passionate about making a difference, consider sponsoring an adaptive wheelchair and be part of this transformative journey! Contact me here on LinkedIn for details. David Johnson-Rayner Richard Weston Rugby Canada Rugby Quebec Rugby Ontario