As many of you will have heard, Penn State Rugby has once again been invited to compete in the Collegiate Rugby Championship (CRC). The CRC will be held, for the second year, in Philadelphia, at PPL Park, on the weekend of June 2nd.
This is an incredible opportunity for the Penn State Rugby Program to again represent Penn State, and all of you, on the national stage. NBC will again air the tournament on its multi-channel platform, with a large portion of the event being aired on primetime, national television. The prestige of the PSU Rugby program receives an incredible boost each time we get the chance to compete in this type of environment.
Rugby is becoming a business in the US, and this relationship with NBC is no different. As we try to grow this game that we love into a mainstream sport, television will be a prime pathway to educate the country. Rugby 7’s inclusion in the 2016 Olympics is a catalyst; grabbing NBC’s attention to the potential of the sport for viewership. But NBC will only continue to televise rugby if they can sell the sport to advertisers, and advertisers want full stadiums. Right or wrong this fact, “fans in the stands,” is unquestionably the biggest huddle facing the growth of rugby in the US.
That is the big picture issues that rugby faces, but how does this affect Penn State, you ask? Well, USA Sevens, the organizational body that hosts the CRC, is a for profit entity. They are requiring each entered team to sell 300 2-day tickets to the event. This is in an effort to fill the stadium. USA Sevens is not looking to make a fortune off of ticket sales; they know that revenues will be made from advertising. The required ticket sales are meant to force the teams to have ownership in the success of the event, ie, put fans in the stands.
“The CRC meant a great deal, getting the full ‘true’ athlete treatment. Going through the tunnel where fans were screaming ‘Penn State’ at the top of their lungs was a great feeling and gets you pumped to play” – Arnold Chavis Class of ’13
Last year, at this event, almost all costs were covered by USA Sevens – from hotel to 3 meals per day, and USA Sevens will again cover these costs. This event is much like a collegiate football bowl game, in the experience provided, and, as such, the teams invited to compete must not only be capable of producing quality rugby but also have a fan base supportive enough to travel.
This is where Penn State Rugby is in need of your help. From now until January 31, 2012, only participating teams can sell tickets to the CRC. And general admission tickets are available at a reduced price until that date. A general admission 2-day pass costs only $38. Starting in February, that price increases by $10. Reserved seating is available at an increased rate, and any tickets purchased at that price-point that are earmarked for PSU will count to our total.
USA Sevens have listened to our requests, from last year, to streamline the purchasing process. When you visit our website, www.rugby.psu.edu , you will find links that will take you to a PSU only ticket site. The site is secure for internet transactions, and all tickets purchased (regardless of price-point) will count towards the Penn State allotment.
“Playing in the CRC was an unreal experience. The atmosphere of the stadium, the crowd cheering, and the anticipation felt in the tunnel as I waited for the green light to jog on the field. I couldn’t tell if I was nervous or excited, but when I jogged onto the field, I knew this is where I wanted to be.” – Greg Voigt Class of ’13
This is an incredible opportunity for any athlete, and our student-athletes may never compete at this level after they leave Penn State. But just like you when you attended PSU, they strive to compete at the highest level, proudly wearing the PSURFC crest. These opportunities did not exist when you or I played for Penn State. These are new and uncharted waters for rugby in the US. As Penn State Alumni and friends, you can have the pleasure and pride of saying, “Penn State Rugby has been a part of this groundswell around the sport since the beginning.” Please, join us and show your support by purchasing a ticket.
“The training and time spent during the build up to the CRC forged together friendships. It was a special team and one of the best months I’ve ever had. Being on television was an once-in-a-lifetime experience, and one of many memories that I will never forget. I got to relax, have fun, and play rugby. I highly anticipate having another crack at winning a 7’s championship.” – Dom DeFalco Class of ’14
Some 160 of you joined us last year in Philadelphia, due much to the hard work of the Penn State Rugby Alumni Club and President Becky Williams. We thank you. The Friday night social was a success, as well as your cheers as the teams took the field. I am sure these events will be repeated. Last year’s teams spent more than a month completing 2-a-day practices to prepare for the completion. Our players lived with each other and grew into a band of comrades over that time that would sacrifice for each other on the field. Outstanding individual performances were only overshadowed by incredible teamwork.
It is sad, unfortunate, and regrettable that, at this point, USA Sevens will not be holding the women’s event this year due to “logistical issues.” Please, do not let this stop you from supporting the Penn State Men’s team in competing. As support for this event grows the demands of rugby enthusiasts to include the women again will happen.
Please, go to www.rugby.psu.edu and show your support for Penn State. Purchase tickets for this weekend of fun, and do so by January 31st to take advantage of the savings.
Thanks for your continued support. Go State!
Chris Amoratis
