 Kevin Roberts, co-founder of
NZ Edge,
has a passionate devotion to the game they play in heaven.
It began in his
own playing days, inspired by Waka Nathan and Earle Kirton as a Lancashire
youngster, through to serving as a director of the New Zealand Rugby Union
during the birth of professionalism.
Wherever he
travels and speaks Kevin introduces new audiences to the heart-pumping
spirit of the haka. His favourite novel is Lloyd Jones' Book of Fame
(see
his thoughts on this below). Here Kevin keeps up with
the play in his regular columns for NZ Rugby World
- his Postcard from the Edge. Read and enjoy:
Kick the Shoot-out into Touch
KR strongly believes that the Heineken Cup is the best rugby
competition, fast becoming the equivalent of the UEFA Champions League in
soccer and streets ahead of Super 14, the Guinness Premier League and the
French Top 14. But there's one facet of the competition (which came to the
fore in the semi-final between Leicester and Cardiff Blues) that has got
KR really got him riled up - the penalty shoot-out. "Rugby is not
football. Rugby is a running game, not a kicking game. It's a team game,
not a game of individuals. A penalty shoot-out is a dimwitted, thick,
one-eyed rip-off from football." On a happier note, his old club team
Vale of Lune won promotion back to the National Leagues of UK rugby,
beating Widnes 55-41 in a play-off game.
(June 2009)
Let Me Hear Those Lions Roar
Growing tired of the Super 14, KR turns his attention to the upcoming British Lions tour of South Africa – “the cream of the six nations against the World Cup holders. Now you’re talking!” Roberts
believes that the Lions' competitive advantage rests on its superior coaching team comprising “The Alex Ferguson of English rugby”, Ian McGeechan, and his right-hand men Warren Gatland, Shaun Edwards and Robert Howley. McGeechan has selected a strong side made up of 27 players from Ireland and Wales, 8 Englishmen and 2 Scots, but KR asks are they good enough to win? The Lions’ success hinges on the leadership of captain Paul O’Connell, the ability of the first fives Ronan O’Gara and Stephan Jones to control the game, and the strength of the Lions’ pack at scrum time.
Bring it on!
(May 2009)
Think Smart to Beat the Recession
It seems that nothing is recession-proof in this new world order and the game of rugby is no exception. Teams are without sponsors, stadium attendances are shrinking - plus tournaments are all too predictable, too boring and are consistently losing audiences in traditional rugby countries. What does this environment mean for New Zealand looking ahead to the 2011 World Cup? “Everyone involved in rugby should pull together over the next 12 months to come up with innovative ideas and solutions so that we can make this tournament the best ever in terms of passion, spectator appeal, spectacular running rugby and fan experience.” USA Eagles preview including 2009 games vs Wales and Canada, new coach Eddie O'Sullivan, and the importance of Sevens – “a vital foundational tool for the US as this helps our players in terms of fitness, game awareness, defense, and instinct. It also helps develop team spirit, team belief and a winning attitude.” And the campaign to have Sevens added to the 2016 Olympics. Progress is that the game has made the short list along with baseball, softball, karate, squash, golf and roller sports. Noting also that the USA are the current Olympic Champions!
(April 2009)
Rugby Heaven
November usually marks the end of a long, tough rugby season for Southern
Hemisphere Rugby players, but this November is enough to make any rugby
lover's mouth water. The All Blacks have a Grand Slam Tour and an
innovative match vs. the Wallabies in Hong Kong; the Wallabies,
Springboks, Canada and Argentina are also on tour in the U.K.; and the USA
are in Japan playing two tests against John Kirwan's Cherry Blossoms.
Whichever way you look at it, it's going to be a great month for rugby.
(November 2008)
Back on Track
As winter tightens its icy grip on New Zealand, KR has been enjoying the
Northern summer at his holiday house in St Tropez. As always, he has rugby
on his mind and settles down to watch the All Blacks take on South Africa,
this time in Cape Town. Richie McCaw was back to his untouchable best as
the boys in black crushed the Boks 19-0, a thrashing in any language. Next
stop, Brisbane.
(September 2008)
Where to From Here?
There's no such thing as an easy game against South Africa, so after a win
in Wellington the AB's knew they would come back firing at Carisbrook.
With one a piece, it has set up a very interesting Tri-nations. However,
with the pendulum having swung away from the Southern Hemisphere, KR
believes NZ Rugby is facing its greatest challenge since going
professional. Steve Tew must look to the Blue Ocean Strategy in order to
re-establish our number one position in every facet of the game.
(August 2008)
The Tough Season Ahead
The All Black's 2008 season began with hiss and a roar against Ireland and
England, but can they continue this form with the Tri Series just around
the corner? KR reveals that the boys are going to have to dig deep if they
are going to come out on top against Robbie Dean's Wallabies and the world
champs, South Africa. He also reviews the latest Euro 2008 football
action and the USA Eagle's disappointing form in the Churchill Cup.
(July 2008)
A Game in Transition
Thirteen years on from the introduction of professionalism into rugby,
what is the state of the game in New Zealand? All is not well, and the
shift of power has now moved to the Northern Hemisphere because "that
is where the money is". In the 21st century, sport has undeniably
strong links with business, so rather than ignoring this, we need to
embrace it. KR looks to the success of the North and in particular
Football, to form his strategy which will help the Southern Hemisphere
take the power back.
(June 2008)
It Doesn't Get Much Better Than This!
KR recounts the spate of European rugby and football he has been attending
over the last couple of months and is happy to report that the All Black
imports are showing the Northern Hemisphere how it's done. In other news,
Roy Keane is coming down to NZ to study with the AB's and the USA Eagles
have signed Scott Johnson (Wales, Wallabies) for four years.
(May 2008)
Five questions on the 6 Nations
Half way through the six nations, KR draws up a progress report on the
tournament. On the coaching front, the comparisons are stark: the Welsh
are shining under the brilliance of Warren Gatland and Shaun Edwards,
while the Scots struggle with a lack of structure and uninspired
selections under Frank Hadden. The quality of rugby gets a mixed review,
but on the upside the fans seem to be injecting new life into the games
– in spite of broadcasters’ best efforts.
(April 2008)
A New Game Plan
The NZRU's decision to reappoint Graham Henry as All Blacks coach is a
positive one - but now is the time for important lessons to be learned. To
make experience count and get back on the front foot, we can look to the
world of business. A full assessment of the All Blacks' game plan - from
the haka to the rotation policy and team management structures - is needed
to put the team on track for success. KR spells out five focus areas for
the men in black's 2008-2011 campaign.
(February 2008)
Decision Time
Hard thinking is the order of the day for the NZRU following the All
Blacks’ loss to France at the World Cup. The decision to be made is a
difficult one, and likely to produce an epic contest at Board level,
albeit one we will never see. Yet ultimately the NZRU finds itself in a
win-win situation: Graham Henry and his coaching panel still have an
incredible record, while Robbie Deans stands head and shoulders above any
other competitor. The challenge is to make a principled decision that
recognises rugby is a business as well as a sport.
(November 2007)
At the main event
The Rugby World Cup provides a spectacle to savour – on and off
the field. The All Blacks have started well, the second tier teams in the
tournament have turned in some gutsy performances, and after the games
rugby philosophy, camaraderie and story-telling are contributing to a rich
experience for fans. Reflecting on the beginnings of this great sporting
event, the merits of the 20-team format for the development of the game,
and considers the prospects of the Cup’s leading contenders.
(September 2007)
Sold-out showcases
Professionalism can come with a cost. Over time, events in cycling, soccer
and cricket that were once global sporting spectacles – the Tour de
France and the respective world cups – have been robbed of their lustre
by a single-minded focus on money. KR reflects on the demise of the codes
and the lesson for Rugby Union.
(August 2007)
Testing times
KR's relish of the World Cup is tainted by the prospect of a real power
shift. The club game in the northern hemisphere is gaining momentum - and
southern hemisphere players - while fans, sponsors and broadcasters are
taken for a ride by a crowded international season and understrength
teams. Sanzar needs to do some hard thinking to turn the tide and restore
the spectacle of test rugby.
(July 2007)
We can repel the raiders
New Zealand was pivotal in ushering in rugby’s professional era, but
now our prime assets are under threat as northern hemisphere clubs target
our top players. KR unfolds an eight-point plan to combat the biggest
threat to New Zealand rugby today.
(June 2007)
For the love of the game
Respected and loved around the world, the death of Bob Woolmer in
suspicious circumstances at the Cricket World Cup in Jamaica has called
into question the spirit of the modern game and the priorities of the ICC.
Once known as the "Gentleman's Game", cricket's governing body
must surely question the direction in which their sport is heading. Rugby
players, fans and administrators alike should pay heed and fight to ensure
that friendship, passion, sportsmanship and above all, a global love for
the game, remain the drivers for participation.
(May 2007)
Six Nations - No Answers
While historical rivalries ensured that it delivered on passion and
raw emotion, it is a pity that the same could not be said about the
general standard of play in this year's Six Nations tournament. A general
lack of consistency and depth at the top level could make for some tough
times when the European teams meet their Southern Hemisphere rivals in
France later this year.
(April 2007)
The American Revolution
KR is appointed Chairman of USA Rugby. The game in the States has
serious ambition and a growing stock of assets and experience. By
contrast, English rugby is underwhelming and defeatist – and the Irish
fly half has stuck his boot into the old foe in more ways than one.
(November 2006)
Better and Better
Nothing beats the clarity of discussion when aided by great NZ Sav
Blanc - and when the discussion involves kicking back with JK in Milan,
you know it will be worthwhile. The year in review, the year ahead and
what to do about that line out… (October 2006)
Time for some innovation
With the RWC only one year out, the focus now turns onto what can be
done to develop rugby into a truly global sport. The key to this may well
be the extent to which the USA picks up and runs with the ball. In terms
of adding to the games global appeal, their potential is phenomenal.
(September 2006)
Will the Boks leader please stand up
Following some significant defeats at the hands of Australia and Les
Bleus, leadership and depth within the Boks camp must surely come into
question. Switching codes meanwhile, the Soccer World Cup managed to
deliver some pretty disappointing action and some questionable behaviour
by its so-called stars.
(August 2006)
Addressing the USA Issue
Kevin Roberts wants the development of USA rugby to be a priority for
the International Rugby Board. (July 2006)
Sight for Sore Eyes
Kevin Roberts enthuses over Munster's European Cup triumph. (June 2006)
Six Nations Sub Optimum
Kevin Roberts reviews the Six Nations and doesn't like what he saw.
"Lets hope the harder grounds in the Southern Hemisphere, and some
fresher, young blood will re-inject the dynamism that was once a tradition
of touring sides from the Northern Hemisphere." (May 2006)
View From the Edge - Prince Obolensky
Lecture
Kevin Roberts earned an invitation to give the second Prince Obolensky
Lecture held under the auspices of the All Party Parliamentary Rugby Union
Group (APPRUG) in the Locarno Suite at the Foreign Office in London.
(April 2006)
Enough to Drive a Man to Drink
Kevin Roberts finds summer rugby viewing a frustrating exercise after
having to resort to watching Heineken Cup rugby on SKY. (February 2006)
It Doesn't Get Much Better Than This
Kevin Roberts sums up the great year that was for New Zealand Rugby.
(December 2005)
What Goes on Tour
Checking out the lineup for the Northern hemipsphere tour party
and observing the ripples caused by two stirring new Rugby books.
(November 2005)
What We've Learned
With Europe firmly in our sights, what have we learned and what do we
still need to learn to complete a fantastic 2005 for New Zealand Rugby?
(October 2005)
Watch out for 'Moffo' and the Wily Welsh
Catching up with an old friend who wants to derail the All Blacks'
Grand Slam hopes at the first hurdle.
(September 2005)
The Eight Questions
From lessons learnt, to finding flow - a review of selection, preparation, management, media and injury.
A couple of weeks' reflection following the Lions Tour, just before we head off for the Tri Series.
(August 2005)
Space seeking All Blacks will only get better
It's not only time to bask in Michael Campbell's win in the US open.
The All Blacks efforts against the Lions evoke memories of Jonah in the
1995 World Cup - get the ball to Carter. The boys from the edge find space
in the middle. (July 2005)
Olympics, Soccer
... Now for the Lions
2012? - London has a compelling story and campaign, Paris has superb marketing,
facilities and a Joi de vivre. The next games will be a fantastic showcase for
China, and perhaps for Rugby Sevens? (June 2005)
Me
and Richie McCaw
A
future-focused selection for the Lions, Kirwan ousted at his peak and
Ritchie McCaw on a stretcher? Or was it just a knock on the head? (May
2005)
10
Things Keeping Me Awake at Night
Better participation, viability, programming and marketing.
Strengthening Asia, North America, the Pacific Islands, Olympic contention
and the IRB. The end of the beginning? (April 2005)
League offers latest Competitive Advantage
How
close will the codes get? Sharper lines, spatial awareness, less rehearsal
and instinctive attack featured heavily in 2004. (Feb -
March 2005)
The
pub was heaving with Silver Ferns
From Rome to Cardiff, to Sao Paulo, Rio and Paris. To a game that was
heaven, a day the All Blacks left the field with no regrets. They
delivered. (Dec 2004 - Jan 2005)
NPC
wins hands down
Canterbury display their own brand of flair, ruthlessness and
professionalism and total calmness and belief. (November 2004)
Admiring
Clive
The business mindset of Sir Clive Woodward - and the business of winning,
step by step. (October 2004)
Olympic
Sevens and Six Wins
After a levelling end to the Tri-Nations, the Olympics are a lesson in the
larger arena of sport. The black and silver ferns clearly outclass both
the Aussies and our lookalike flag. And wouldn't the Rugby Sevens be as
good as Beach Volleball? (September 2004)
Irish
Blarney
Spinning the yarns, courtesy of Willie John McBride - Ireland's own Colin
Meads. (August 2004)
Barbed
Wire for Breakfast
Fitzy captures the essence of what it is to have a "re-found"
forward pack. Rugby smarts on and off the field. (July 2004)
Alama's
Japanese lessons
Financial security and rugby scar tissue, the merits of
"30-somethings" and the model of Japanese rugby as a blooding
ground for coaches and players. The Alama Ieremia story has it all.
(June 2004)
Six
Learnings From The Six Nations
Great prospects for the international season ahead: Putting England
to the sword. Hookers who throw spot-on lineout ball. Flair players given
the option of a free flowing attack. A Lions tour to match the best.
(May 2004)
That
Old Familiar Six Nations Feeling
The passion, tension and deep local participation make Six Nations
games a fantastic spectator sport. (April
2004)
Islanders
must come in from the Cold
Imagine a Pacific Islanders side featuring the athleticism of former All
Black and Samoa flanker Andrew Blowers, the speed and finishing of Fiji's
Rupeni Caucaunibuca, and the power of Tongan-born former All Black Isitolo
Maka. Put some reality beside the dream. Stop talking and start acting. (February-March
2004)
Don't
Forget JK
KR interviews John Kirwan about the Rugby World Cup, coaching
and JK's future plans. (December
2003 - January 2004)
SANZAR
must sell SANZAR as is
It's time for the NZRU to convince the TV networks that SANZAR is a major
event and not a secondary event. (November
2003)
When We
Compete, We Can Win
Bending it like Beckham, a story between the
professionalism of Real Madrid, the legendary men of Munster and the All
Blacks' readiness going into this year's Rugby World Cup. Go Black! (October
2003)
Say
"No" to Night Rugby
Test rugby and Dunedin equal "a great feeling of family and
inspiration combined" - marred only by the downsides of night games. (September 2003)
Sky High
in Switzerland
Living overseas and watching the ABs on Sky? Your'e not alone. A tribute to the
global community of rugby, the ageless T.P. McLean and
Lloyd Jones' novel The Book of Fame.
(August 2003)
Fire and
Ice
A provocative questioning of whether the energy and emotion of the haka is
being practised at the right time and place. The All Blacks subsequently
go on to earn the privilege, the Tri-Nations and the Bledisloe Cup.
(July
2003)
Super result,
super competition
There is no resting on laurels as far as the Super 12 competition is
concerned. A call for continued innovation. (June 2003)
The Age of
Paradox
"The essence of unleashing paradox is to refuse to make a choice.
Every time you choose, you lose. Demand the best of both and make zero
compromises on either". (May 2003)
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