Former South African rugby player and World Cup winner, Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira, has expressed his belief in the potential of the USA becoming a competitive rugby nation. However, he emphasized that a structural overhaul is needed for the country to reach that level.
Mtawarira highlighted the importance of more investment in USA Rugby, securing TV rights on mainstream channels, focusing on grassroots development, and introducing rugby as a school sport. He believes that American football and rugby can coexist in the States, pointing to the country’s large population and the appeal of physical, collision sports.
Drawing from his own experiences, Mtawarira urged South African sports to look at the NBA as a model for marketability. He stressed the importance of creating a family-friendly atmosphere at games and showcasing players’ unique stories to attract a wider audience.
The retired prop also pointed out the success of Japan’s Rugby League One, which airs on ESPN’s channels in Africa. Mtawarira sees this as a sign of the potential for rugby to grow its global presence and reach new audiences.
Overall, Mtawarira’s insights highlight the potential for rugby to continue expanding its reach and popularity, both in the USA and around the world. With the right investments and strategies in place, the sport could see significant growth and development in the years to come.
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