Dear Editor,
One commonly cited idiom suggests paper never refuses ink, though my laser printer might have a different take on that. However, the oft-employed metaphor for an upper-crust rugby lout is a term that potentially will always exist.
Whilst Johnny Watterson expresses some well-placed views on the definition of a true “fan”, I’m inclined to theorise that the average ambience at matches is down to a considerable portion of the supporters likely having never actually participated in the game. My personal journey towards an understanding of rugby only began when I took up playing myself, having never been educated in a school where rugby was a major sport.
It’s lamentable that despite national matches drawing in expansive television audiences, player numbers at local clubs across the nation remain shockingly sparse. Were one to suggest prioritising active players in the distribution of international match tickets, they would surely face accusations of discrimination or perhaps even snobbery.
A casual pint at the Aviva, a lavish dinner at Roly’s, and a ride on the Dart back home. Isn’t this the typical experience of a seasoned rugby follower?
Disparagement of our victorious team leads me to believe many enthusiasts harbour unrealistic expectations of flashy, Harlem Globetrotter-like displays. This highlights the lack of appreciation for the complexities of rugby and the absence of playing experience amongst the majority of contemporaneous rugby fans.
Yours faithfully,
Matthew Glover,
Lucan,
Co Dublin.