Rugby Wants to Introduce Away Fan Sections, Backed by Sir Clive Woodward
01/02/2025 03:24 PM
Premiership Rugby is reportedly considering the introduction of designated away sections at matches, a move that could spark debate within the sport. However, the decision has received strong backing from former England head coach Sir Clive Woodward.
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A Shift from Rugby Tradition
Rugby has long prided itself on an inclusive atmosphere, where supporters from both teams intermingle freely at domestic and international fixtures. Unlike football, which typically enforces strict fan segregation for safety reasons, rugby has thrived on its unique culture of shared support and mutual respect between rival fans.
However, Premiership Rugby is now exploring ways to boost the sport's appeal and create a more commercially viable product. Introducing specific away supporter sections is one of the proposals aimed at enhancing the matchday experience, according to the Mail Online.
Enhancing Atmosphere and Rivalries
The idea behind creating designated areas for away fans is to heighten the atmosphere at games and foster stronger rivalries among the 10 Premiership sides. The league's decision comes at a time when financial pressures on clubs are increasingly evident, with the recent collapses of Worcester Warriors, Wasps, and London Irish serving as stark reminders.
Woodward Backs the Change
In his latest column for the Mail Online, Sir Clive Woodward expressed his strong support for the move.
“For too long, the game has done the same things on repeat, and there has been an obvious need for change. The financial problems experienced by clubs and the demise of Worcester, Wasps, and London Irish have shown exactly that.”
Woodward believes that away sections could significantly enhance the game-day experience for fans.
“It will certainly add to the atmosphere and that, ultimately, is what it's all about. It helps sell the product and grow rugby's appeal,” he explained.
No Need for Segregation – A Positive Move
While fan segregation is common in football to prevent clashes between rival supporters, Woodward stresses that this isn't the motivation behind rugby's proposed changes.
“This is being done for positive, not negative, reasons. And that is to be applauded. The upsides far outweigh the downsides. In fact, I don't see any downsides.”
Welcoming Away Fans with Open Arms
Woodward also emphasises the importance of making away fans feel valued by providing good seating and access to facilities.
“If I was an away fan, sitting in one block with my fellow supporters would certainly appeal. It adds to the sense of comradeship and would help create a feeling of attachment.”
He added, “There is no point putting the away fans in the worst part of the ground. The opposite should happen. They should be welcomed in style and given great seats with good access to food and drink facilities.”
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