Yesterday the rugby movie "Forever Strong" came out, so I went to check it out... Although it had the feeling of an afterschool special, it sent some good messages overall and I liked how it incorporated the tradition of the Haka & the importance of "family". I also appreciated the focus they put on ruggers giving back to the community. However, as a social worker & more importantly as a rugby player, I was not pleased to see that the movie sent the message that if you end up in juvenile hall, they'll let you out on good behavior to practice and play rugby. We all know that is NOT reality. And I certainly hope folks who watch this movie don't walk away w/ thinking all ruggers are a bunch of former juvenile delinquents because that is far from the truth (give or take a rugger or two).
With that said, I believe it's important to make it clear & known that most rugby players are NOT a bunch of juveniles with a criminal record the length of the pitch. Instead we are good people who come from all types of professional & successful careers (i.e. lawyers, law enforcement, military, nurses, teachers, social workers, banking, financial industry, business owners, mortage companies, etc.). We are well educated individuals with a fiery spirit and a love for rugby and each other.
One thing the movie portrays is that rugby players are binded and bonded together thanks to tradition & those who set forth on the pitch before us. I couldn't agree more. Not only are we committed to this fine sport, we're committed to our brothers and sisters on and off the pitch. We are a team and a "family". We take pride in rugby traditions, we love one another (despite our differences on and off the pitch) and we ALWAYS bind together through the good and the bad.
Together we ruck on.....Kia Kaha!
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