All people who interact with the Union deserve the upmost in grace. This culture has not existed in the past. We have not had a ‘connected’ culture. The terms comes up in so many conversations. We CAN connect on the global stage. We CAN bring American companies that support Rugby overseas but not domestically into our camps. We must develop a World Class Brand. More…
A leadership group will come together over the next few weeks/months. That group must form a world class team to effect the transformational outcomes that our community deserves. More…
Over a nine week period, RIM has gone from a valuation of over $20 Million according to Chang, to now “imminent financial catastrophe” according to Lewis. We now know Lewis’ statement to be true. More…
These changes; RIM’s new state, the opening of numerous Board Seats (King and Kimmett are up in July as well), AND the recent resignation of USAR CEO Dan Payne literally creates a ‘Blue Ocean’ of opportunity for the new leaders of the Union. I refer to the new CEO, the new Board, as well as what may be assigned the role of Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) that may ultimately replace the RIM role More…
A unique opportunity presented itself for anyone responsible for marketing our brand. I envisioned Good Morning America, The Today Show. Any of them. A feature in a major publication or Sports Illustrated cover.
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Despite the great efforts of many, the Union finds itself wallowing in continued mediocrity; on the field, off the field, and in the boardroom. Nearly 25 years into the professional era, we continue to generate optimism only through eternal faith in our vast resources and potential, which we never seem to realize More…
I also believe ‘finals week’ at WRWC, if placed in the right destination could create an event of enormous interest. Semifinals could be played on a Sunday, and Finals/Consolation on the following Saturday. The lower places could be settled at venues mid-week. Pick a fabulous destination, market the product, and I believe in 2-3 iterations you have 50,000 people in attendance. Regardless, World Rugby should be open to changing this format in order to open the commercial opportunity, which at this stage lies only in finals week. More…
The expectations of the American rugby community for our National events are at deplorable levels. There has just never been anyone to say – “Hey, let’s make this a real event, that people want to attend, because it’s fun, it’s entertaining, and it’s American Rugby”. More…
To have the opportunity to serve as a director of the USA Rugby board would be a perfect storm in my life as a professional. The opportunity to work in a position that is served by both heart and mind is rare. It would never be taken for granted.
I was able to “take” a lot from the game when I played, a life that defined me. I would appreciate the opportunity to give back in the same capacity. This is the ultimate “virtuous cycle of rugby”.
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To the Congress: Is the status quo going to get us the point where we are winners, on and off the field? More…
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Tony Ridnell 