DING-DONG !! The "Witch" is dead (almost)

by PenfroPete Tue 24 Feb 2015, 9:01 am

First topic message reminder :

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/31593687

http://www.walesonline.co.uk/sport/rugby/rugby-news/wru-chief-executive-roger-lewis-8704861

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/rugbyunion/international/wales/11431004/Wales-Rugby-Union-chief-executive-Roger-Lewis-to-quit-after-World-Cup-following-nine-years-service.html

Wales Rugby Union chief executive Roger Lewis to quit after World Cup Yahoo

by SecretFly Wed 25 Feb 2015, 12:50 pm

Well it also seems Gatland has index linked his tenure as Welsh coach to the departure of a man he seemed to have been able to do a ton of business with.

It seems Gatland senses the good times and money and resources dedicated to the International game might be at an end under a new Tsar.

So losing Lewis might mean losing Gatland too,

Okay, okay - so that might be a double blessing to some of you Wink

But never forget how happy you've all been winning those 6Ns.

by No9 Wed 25 Feb 2015, 1:06 pm

I think Gats would be leaving shortly after the 2015 RWC anyway... I know he signed a contract up to and including the 2019 RWC, but I cant see him staying till then. I bet that contract has an out clause favoring him, and I bet Steve Hansen will be moving on after the 2015 RWC, so a good Welsh performance will place Gats in a great position for the job he wants. And I cant blame him. I just hope we can get the best of him whilst we still have him.

by Exiledinborders Wed 25 Feb 2015, 4:09 pm

No9 wrote:I think Gats would be leaving shortly after the 2015 RWC anyway... I know he signed a contract up to and including the 2019 RWC, but I cant see him staying till then. I bet that contract has an out clause favoring him, and I bet Steve Hansen will be moving on after the 2015 RWC, so a good Welsh performance will place Gats in a great position for the job he wants. And I cant blame him. I just hope we can get the best of him whilst we still have him.

So no NZ job for Gats then!

by Exiledinborders Wed 25 Feb 2015, 4:14 pm

Looking from the outside it always seemed to me that Roger Lewis thought that all other rugby existed only to support international rugby. The job of any union is to support the playing of rugby by as many people as possible. Of all the things I have heard about Welsh rugby the most shocking to me was that clubs in Wales cannot play when Wales are playing as Roger Lewis would apparently prefer them to be paying to watch Wales rather than playing themselves.

From what I have seen Welsh rugby is well shot of him.

by wayne Wed 25 Feb 2015, 4:38 pm

Exiledinborders wrote:Looking from the outside it always seemed to me that Roger Lewis thought that all other rugby existed only to support international rugby. The job of any union is to support the playing of rugby by as many people as possible. Of all the things I have heard about Welsh rugby the most shocking to me was that clubs in Wales cannot play when Wales are playing as Roger Lewis would apparently prefer them to be paying to watch Wales rather than playing themselves.

From what I have seen Welsh rugby is well shot of him.

Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

by LordDowlais Wed 25 Feb 2015, 4:45 pm

wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.

by wayne Wed 25 Feb 2015, 4:54 pm

LordDowlais wrote:
wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.

Correct Lord.

by Coleman Wed 25 Feb 2015, 5:09 pm

If only we could stop our regional teams playing on the same weekends as Wales. Having an A team fixture i could afford to go to would be nice.

by No9 Wed 25 Feb 2015, 5:12 pm

wayne wrote:
LordDowlais wrote:
wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.
Correct Lord.

yep, I concur. Haven't you seen the BBC Wales 6 Nations promos, they show exactly the "holiday" fever around the 6 Nations...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCV36jW3FVk

... its the worst 6 Nations promo video ever done by BBC Wales.. God knows what they'll do next year Erm

by Cardiff Dave Wed 25 Feb 2015, 6:36 pm

LordDowlais wrote:
wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.

Hampers and champers in my posh cul-de-sac in the posh Vale. Naarh not really.

by Cardiff Dave Wed 25 Feb 2015, 6:37 pm

No9 wrote:
wayne wrote:
LordDowlais wrote:
wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.
Correct Lord.

yep, I concur. Haven't you seen the BBC Wales 6 Nations promos, they show exactly the "holiday" fever around the 6 Nations...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCV36jW3FVk

... its the worst 6 Nations promo video ever done by BBC Wales.. God knows what they'll do next year

Agincourt?

by No9 Wed 25 Feb 2015, 7:26 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
No9 wrote:
wayne wrote:
LordDowlais wrote:
wayne wrote:Exile, the stopping of Rugby being played on the same day is not of the Dodgers making this was happening when I was SH....NG YELLOW, sometimes before the Leagues were set up, us valley oiks used to have supposed friendlies with Kerdiff clubs on the morning of a match, but they were few and far between.

It was for the people who play grass roots rugby, it was because these poeple wanted to watch Wales play. The thing is, when Wales play an international rugby match, even more so in the 6N, the country comes to a stop. It is almost like a national holiday, everybody organises how they are going about "international day". Most people will organise a trip to Cardiff, or a trip to the local town center, some will organise a trip to their local club/pub, some people will organise a gethering at their house, food will be put on, drinks will be a plenty, and the party will go on. This is why nobody played/plays rugby on INTERNATIONAL DAY.
Correct Lord.

yep, I concur. Haven't you seen the BBC Wales 6 Nations promos, they show exactly the "holiday" fever around the 6 Nations...

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JCV36jW3FVk

... its the worst 6 Nations promo video ever done by BBC Wales.. God knows what they'll do next year

Agincourt?

Nah... they've done that one..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6gN5aeLcg

... and I quite liked this series of promos Whistle

by Cardiff Dave Wed 25 Feb 2015, 7:58 pm

No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:

Agincourt?

Nah... they've done that one..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6gN5aeLcg

... and I quite liked this series of promos

Bit cringey if you ask me. Keep whistling.

by No9 Wed 25 Feb 2015, 10:24 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:

Agincourt?

Nah... they've done that one..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6gN5aeLcg

... and I quite liked this series of promos

Bit cringey if you ask me. Keep whistling.

yeh.. but there was a bit of humor in it, unlike the current one.. (liked the museum with Rolland's red card.. Very Happy

)

by Cardiff Dave Wed 25 Feb 2015, 10:58 pm

No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:

Agincourt?

Nah... they've done that one..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6gN5aeLcg

... and I quite liked this series of promos

Bit cringey if you ask me. Keep whistling.

yeh.. but there was a bit of humor in it, unlike the current one.. (liked the museum with Rolland's red card.. )

Stereotypical complete nonsense though.

by Cardiff Dave Wed 25 Feb 2015, 11:31 pm

No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
No9 wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:

Agincourt?

Nah... they've done that one..
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nD6gN5aeLcg

... and I quite liked this series of promos

Bit cringey if you ask me. Keep whistling.

yeh.. but there was a bit of humor in it, unlike the current one.. (liked the museum with Rolland's red card.. )

Nevermind Rolland/Warburton etc; 15m away from the French try line, one point in it with less than 10mins to go. Where's Wellies?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvi0gaQw8R8

by Chunky Norwich Thu 26 Feb 2015, 9:46 am

Exiledinborders wrote:Looking from the outside it always seemed to me that Roger Lewis thought that all other rugby existed only to support international rugby.
From what I have seen Welsh rugby is well shot of him.

This x 1,000,000

by PenfroPete Thu 26 Feb 2015, 2:57 pm

From a Guardian Rugby newsletter "The Breakdown". It was forwarded to me, but I can't get a link

"The Welsh Rugby Union this week announced that its chief executive, Roger Lewis, who is also the CEO of the Millennium Stadium, would be standing down in October after nine years in charge. There was no media conference, only an email of a few hundred words that pointed out a list of achievements.
You would have thought, especially given the gushing reaction in some of the Welsh media to news that was overdue, that a media conference for a man who had, some said, delivered grand slams and driven down the WRU’s debt was the least he merited, an opportunity to bask in the glow of friendly questions.
Except some would have been more awkward. Such as did the chief executive jump or was he pushed? His departure was decided in January after a meeting of the board of directors when they made it clear they were looking to move in a different direction. Lewis’s time was up. It was tantamount to a vote of no confidence and the only question was when he went: before the start of the Six Nations, at the end of the tournament or through to the World Cup?
His final day will be on 31 October, when the World Cup final will be played at Twickenham, but it would be no surprise if he had not found himself on gardening leave by then. If he is still in office, he no longer has the power and influence he once wielded, the inevitable outcome of last year’s election of board members by clubs.
David Pickering, the WRU chairman throughout Lewis’s tenure, was voted out as a national representative. He was replaced by the former Wales outside-half Gareth Davies, then the chief executive of Newport Gwent Dragons, and a vacancy created the retirement of Gerald Davies, whose valedictory speech to the clubs at an annual general meeting called earlier in the year lamented the low esteem in which Wales were held throughout the rugby world, was filled by another ex-international, Anthony Buchanan.
Pickering and Lewis had a close working relationship, but when Gareth Davies was elected as chairman, armed with a mandate by the clubs who, while acknowledging the progress made by Wales since Gatland had been appointed head coach at the end of 2007, were concerned at the deteriorating state of the game in the levels below: the shop window may have looked good but the state of the stockroom demanded attention.
Davies has taken that mandate on. There was a jockeying for power initially but he stood firm as chairman, winning the battle to have Gerald Davies’s name put forward as the WRU’s recommendation for the post of chairman of the Guinness Pro12. A board that under Pickering’s chairmanship had found it difficult to stand up to Lewis found its voice.
Gareth Davies and Lewis had been on the opposite sides during a television debate at the start of last year over the state of the game in Wales, in particular the failure of the WRU to agree a partnership deal with its four regions who feared they were being shoved towards financial doom.
The regions had taken to social media to press their case, believing that most of the established media in Wales were unwilling to jeopardise their relationship with the WRU, something that led to a lack of accountability. Gareth Davies and Lewis were never going to get on with the former not just behind the regions but committed to addressing the concerns of the grassroots and building trust.
The elite side of the game has prospered under Lewis who, not unreasonably, saw the international game as the financial driver but Wales is one of the few countries in the world that can lay claim to rugby union as its national sport. One of the concerns of the regions during their long standoff with the WRU was that they wanted to be able to get involved in the game in their areas to help it and them grow but they were, to be euphemistic, discouraged.
That is changing under Gareth Davies. This week’s email announcement contained a short tribute to Lewis from him. It was said in victory. The WRU has lost a chief executive with a remarkable gift for publicity and a huge capacity for work but who was not comfortable around the table negotiating with those who held a contrary view to his. Welsh rugby will be duller without him but his legacy of a strong top and a weaker middle and bottom must not be an enduring one"

by SecretFly Thu 26 Feb 2015, 3:07 pm

PenfroPete wrote:Gerald Davies, whose valedictory speech to the clubs at an annual general meeting called earlier in the year lamented the low esteem in which Wales were held throughout the rugby world

The Welsh can be emotive and wear their heart on their sleeve of course (as do we all from time to time).... but that line, if Davies did indeed word it that way, is pure bullschit. It's all in the head - it's fantasy.

by PenfroPete Thu 26 Feb 2015, 3:15 pm

FLY -

http://www.therugbypaper.co.uk/features/columnists/peter-jackson/17211/peter-jackson-gerald-davies-jinks-in-to-put-the-record-straight/

Nobody knew Davies intended to say anything. As the last speaker, he timed his run to perfection and delivered an indictment of the Welsh leadership. He also knew he was putting his own head on the block, hence the reference that what he was about to say would not be “too popular with those on the stage”.

“We are not held in high regard,” he said, distilling into carefully chosen words the views of the game’s power-brokers the world over as expressed to him in his role as chairman and manager of the Lions. “We are held in low esteem. Our reputation is tarnished and it’s depressing that we have such a reputation.

“Men and women of substance say what a shambles that is. We need to govern the game in a way we wish it to be governed and we all need to feel a part of the process.”

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/27844772

Board member and former Wales captain Gerald Davies made an impassioned and sometimes emotional speech to the meeting which was the first EGM since 2007.

Davies said the fact an EGM was needed underlined that WRU governance needed to change.

Former Wales wing Davies added the union was "not held in high regard, it is held in low esteem overseas... it is distressing we have this reputation… we need to restore common purpose, trust and unity,"

by SecretFly Thu 26 Feb 2015, 3:43 pm

Oh I didn't doubt you accurately paraphrased him Pete. That was just rhetorical stuff I was using to strengthen the idea that I would find it hard to believe Davies could justify a claim that such a dismissive opinion of Welsh rugby existed around the world.

What the rest of the world DID know was that Welsh rugby had reached a state of flux internally. That the battles for power and influence were having an effect on Regional rugby - yes. But I think most outside observers expect internal struggles to come and go - and we've all been through them.

It's part of the politics of the game. But that idea of 'low esteem' of Welsh rugby around the world is just not true.

by Guest Thu 26 Feb 2015, 7:10 pm

Fly,

What about the 'village idiots of world rugby' quote? Or the way we're viewed in terms of our constant infighting. Or the horlicks of a job at going regional? Or our inability to attract any fans to the game (outside of internationals)? Or the inability to find any significant investors on our game? Or the way our club game has crumbled? I think it was these sort of things, which on these message boards and elsewhere other fans have rightly discussed and criticised us for, that Gerald Davies was referring to in terms of 'low esteem'. The number of times we hear, and again rightly so, 'you need to get your house in order' from our pro12 partners and their fans, I think does point to the low esteem we're held in. The national team is OK and at least gives most teams a good game these days (thinking SH opponents more than anything), but it's the off the pitch stuff like management, blazer brigade, business acumen in the game (or lack of it) that Davies is mainly referring to. Do you think we're held in good esteem in that respect?

by aucklandlaurie Thu 26 Feb 2015, 8:17 pm

Dont worry about it Griff, all countries have issues in the areas of management, acumen etc throughout the levels of schools, clubs, provinces etc of the games orginisational structure. whether the rest of the World judges these by way of high or low esteem is not really that important, as what do we really know anyway?

Cant help but think that the BBC were pretty close to the mark in describing Davies' remarks as "impassioned" which is fine, as Im sure we do all know that he had nothing but the interests of all Welsh rugby at heart.

by Guest Thu 26 Feb 2015, 8:26 pm

I guess the way I look at is to ask 'are we held in high regard/esteem'. And I just don't think we are, for the reasons above. Why would we be when we make such a mess of everything that we do in rugby?! Roger Lewis must be given credit for turning the financial fortunes around. But generally in othe her respects we can't be held in high regard as everything is such a mess. A lot of that is papered over slightly by the relatively good fortunes of the national team.

by Cardiff Dave Thu 26 Feb 2015, 8:27 pm

aucklandlaurie wrote:
Dont worry about it Griff, all countries have issues in the areas of management, acumen etc throughout the levels of schools, clubs, provinces etc of the games orginisational structure. whether the rest of the World judges these by way of high or low esteem is not really that important, as what do we really know anyway?

Cant help but think that the BBC were pretty close to the mark in describing Davies' remarks as "impassioned" which is fine, as Im sure we do all know that he had nothing but the interests of all Welsh rugby at heart.

Yep and Dodger's gone. Nice one Gerald.

by Guest Thu 26 Feb 2015, 8:34 pm

I just think that Roger Lewis had too much involvement in the rugby side of things. We complain that the business and commercial side should be run by experts from the business world rather than ex-players and 'rugby men' (so Lewis' appointment was great in that respect). Well, it surely must work the other way too - a non-rugby man getting involved in determining the grass roots, league structure, regional/pro club stuff, etc. Just doesn't seem right. I appreciate it must be difficult separating the commercial and rugby sides. But I think his remit was a bit too rugby-involved. That was bound to cause problems in the long term.

by Cardiff Dave Thu 26 Feb 2015, 8:41 pm

Griff wrote:
Or the horlicks of a job at going regional?

12 years on and still arguing the toss we are. Even more so now with social media. Incredible really. When will the nonsense end?

by wayne Thu 26 Feb 2015, 9:54 pm

Griff wrote:I just think that Roger Lewis had too much involvement in the rugby side of things. We complain that the business and commercial side should be run by experts from the business world rather than ex-players and 'rugby men' (so Lewis' appointment was great in that respect). Well, it surely must work the other way too - a non-rugby man getting involved in determining the grass roots, league structure, regional/pro club stuff, etc. Just doesn't seem right. I appreciate it must be difficult separating the commercial and rugby sides. But I think his remit was a bit too rugby-involved. That was bound to cause problems in the long term.

Griff, I expressed basically the same thoughts a few years ago, saying the Dodger had basically done a decent job in accruing revenue for the WRU, yet his interference in the Rugby side in which he had NO EXPERIENCE, and was allowed by an inept board and an even WORSE chairman, that was where the problems arose from, the stopping of among others Andrew Hore getting involved in junior rugby within each Region is an illustration of this, if Pickering had taken charge of the Rugby side as Gareth Davies is now doing, this situation wouldn't have arisen.

by bedfordwelsh Fri 27 Feb 2015, 5:47 am

There was an interesting debate on Scrum V radio last night and guests were the legend that is Graham Price, Paul Rees the journalist and a few members of Semi Pro clubs Cross Keys being one.

All pretty much said the same that from a financial point he has been a success and achieved what he was brought in to do but then on the flip side they all (mostly) agreed that in the latter few years he has concentrated to much on the upper echelon of Welsh rugby to the detriment of the Semi-Pro and grass roots level.

Some thought as CEO he should have rightly looked after all levels not just the National side others, as Griff has mentioned said he shouldn't have had any involvement with any of the rugby and just concentrated on the business side of things.

There was also the odd conspiracy about as soon as Davies was appointed chairman he was always going to go others suggest he is going on his terms etc etc and no animosity.

by PenfroPete Sat 28 Feb 2015, 9:41 am

http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

by wayne Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:15 am

PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 5:28 pm

PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

Beautiful!

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 6:00 pm

wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

by wayne Sat 28 Feb 2015, 8:46 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

If you are going where I think you are going, FO they are not having him, he hasn't finished what he started yet.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:11 pm

wayne wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.
If you are going where I think you are going, FO they are not having him, he hasn't finished what he started yet.

Think again, like the Jocks say. He'll speak to Hore in the same way that he'll speak to the others I suspect.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:15 pm

wayne wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.
If you are going where I think you are going, FO they are not having him, he hasn't finished what he started yet.

And it's we now, not "they".

by Guest Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:30 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

by wayne Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:34 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.
If you are going where I think you are going, FO they are not having him, he hasn't finished what he started yet.

And it's we now, not "they".

Dave, if you remember, and I do, he turned down the same job with the WRU, and came to us, after returning from NZ, to turn us around, and if we had had him in the job he now has with us, we wouldn't have been in the situation we have just endured, I can say I've had some very interesting talks with the man, he really is ahead of our time.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 10:50 pm

wayne wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.
If you are going where I think you are going, FO they are not having him, he hasn't finished what he started yet.

And it's we now, not "they".
Dave, if you remember, and I do, he turned down the same job with the WRU, and came to us, after returning from NZ, to turn us around, and if we had had him in the job he now has with us, we wouldn't have been in the situation we have just endured, I can say I've had some very interesting talks with the man, he really is ahead of our time.

I've posted this link before....an article from 2010.
"Ospreys boss Andrew Hore challenges WRU over regions"
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/rugby_union/welsh/8631086.stm

by wayne Sat 28 Feb 2015, 11:00 pm

Yes I've seen that before, there is a possibility that what he wanted then can come about, there is more chance of it now than it has ever been.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 11:04 pm

Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

I'll bet you a tenner that Cardiff Rugby will drop the "Blues" suffix in the very near future.

by Cardiff Dave Sat 28 Feb 2015, 11:09 pm

wayne wrote:Yes I've seen that before, there is a possibility that what he wanted then can come about, there is more chance of it now than it has ever been.

Here's a favourite....

"Ospreys disappointed as WRU block match with Tonga

Ospreys chief Andrew Hore has expressed his disappointment at the Welsh Rugby Union's decision to deny them the chance to host Tonga in Bridgend.

Hore says the WRU citied "player welfare" concerns and potential effects on Welsh Premiership fixtures to block the game that had been planned for Tuesday, 13 November.

"It's a real shame," said Ospreys operations manager Hore.

The Welsh Rugby Union have been asked to comment."

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/rugby-union/20200617

by Guest Sun 01 Mar 2015, 7:06 am

Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

I'll bet you a tenner that Cardiff Rugby will drop the "Blues" suffix in the very near future.

Then you'll need to change Cardiff RFC's kit and nickname then!

by **George Carlin** Sun 01 Mar 2015, 7:23 am

Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

by Luckless Pedestrian Sun 01 Mar 2015, 8:21 am

PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

The change in emphasis and tone is remarkable. The approach now is to consult and include the lower levels of the game, as opposed to the top-down, like-it-or-lump-it attitude we've had before.

Roger Lewis liked to say 'for the good of Welsh rugby' but it never rang true. Gareth Davies doesn't need to say it because the content of this letter says it for him.

by Guest Sun 01 Mar 2015, 10:11 am

Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

The change in emphasis and tone is remarkable. The approach now is to consult and include the lower levels of the game, as opposed to the top-down, like-it-or-lump-it attitude we've had before.

Roger Lewis liked to say 'for the good of Welsh rugby' but it never rang true. Gareth Davies doesn't need to say it because the content of this letter says it for him.

by Cardiff Dave Sun 01 Mar 2015, 6:06 pm

Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

I'll bet you a tenner that Cardiff Rugby will drop the "Blues" suffix in the very near future.

Then you'll need to change Cardiff RFC's kit and nickname then!

Same kit with Cardiff in the Pro12 and Cardiff A in the WP. Sorted. Same as what Munster, Leinster, etc do for the B&I cup I spose.

by Cardiff Dave Sun 01 Mar 2015, 6:14 pm

Luckless Pedestrian wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link

The change in emphasis and tone is remarkable. The approach now is to consult and include the lower levels of the game, as opposed to the top-down, like-it-or-lump-it attitude we've had before.

Roger Lewis liked to say 'for the good of Welsh rugby' but it never rang true. Gareth Davies doesn't need to say it because the content of this letter says it for him.

Absolutely and with transparency too. It would seem that things are moving in the right direction at long last.

by Guest Sun 01 Mar 2015, 7:01 pm

Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

I'll bet you a tenner that Cardiff Rugby will drop the "Blues" suffix in the very near future.

Then you'll need to change Cardiff RFC's kit and nickname then!

Same kit with Cardiff in the Pro12 and Cardiff A in the WP. Sorted. Same as what Munster, Leinster, etc do for the B&I cup I spose.

My point being that if the Blues decide to drop 'The Blues' then it will probably be quite public. There will be a press conference, it will make the front page of the Western Mail, BBC Wales news will do a short segment, etc. It will then look a bit silly publicly dropping the title 'The Blues' and then carry on playing in blue and having the nickname 'The Blues'.

Also, what will come from dropping it really? It's not like you changed your name to Glamorgan Gladiators or similar and then lost all of your fans and brand. It's not like you embraced regionalism. You were allowed to stand alone, so not much changed. So what's the thinking behind dropping you nickname? What will it achieve?

by Cardiff Dave Sun 01 Mar 2015, 7:37 pm

Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
Griff wrote:
Cardiff Dave wrote:
wayne wrote:
PenfroPete wrote:http://www.southwalesargus.co.uk/sport/11825240.Open_letter_from_ex_Dragons_chief__Gareth_Davies/

In my travels around Wales as WRU Chairman I have encountered a healthy appetite for information about how our vision for the future is being implemented.

This hunger for detail is surely a reflection of how the Welsh rugby community wants to play an active part in the exciting journey we are now embarking on.

While my focus is on close liaison with my Board and the member clubs themselves I realise there are times when I need to speak with a louder voice to an even wider audience than usual.

So this open letter to Welsh rugby is aimed at explaining to you all how we have a defined vision of what we want to achieve and how we are already working to effect the changes we believe are vital. ........................ full story in link
Thanks for that Pete, if he needs to find a way of integrating the Regional and Community game, he only needs to go and have a word with Andrew Hore, the liaison between the Ospreys and some of the clubs in our area was steadily improving with senior players going out to training sessions and matches, especially kids on a Sunday morning until it was curtailed by the Dodger, who told him to keep his nose out of the Community Game.

I'd wager he already has and will do so again in the future no doubt. The only way is up I feel.

The Blues to become fully regional and rebrand as Glamorgan Wildcats. You heard it here first.

I'll bet you a tenner that Cardiff Rugby will drop the "Blues" suffix in the very near future.

Then you'll need to change Cardiff RFC's kit and nickname then!

Same kit with Cardiff in the Pro12 and Cardiff A in the WP. Sorted. Same as what Munster, Leinster, etc do for the B&I cup I spose.

My point being that if the Blues decide to drop 'The Blues' then it will probably be quite public. There will be a press conference, it will make the front page of the Western Mail, BBC Wales news will do a short segment, etc. It will then look a bit silly publicly dropping the title 'The Blues' and then carry on playing in blue and having the nickname 'The Blues'.

Also, what will come from dropping it really? It's not like you changed your name to Glamorgan Gladiators or similar and then lost all of your fans and brand. It's not like you embraced regionalism. You were allowed to stand alone, so not much changed. So what's the thinking behind dropping you nickname? What will it achieve?

Transparency maybe?

by Sponsored content