Originally Posted by
MysticBalls
I'm having difficulties with the new APC competition being basically a re-hash of the Oz S14 teams without their Wallaby stars. If the purpose is to bridge the gap between metropolitan competitions and S14 level , then why repeat the S14 format? Why think in terms of State teams when its supposed to be 'provinces' by definition ? In other countries, this means regions not states.
At the same time, the PI counties will be selecting thier national teams for the upcoming Pacfic 6 Nations tournament, a great idea for PI + including Japan & Junior NZ.
This will involve the Fijian, Samoan, Tongan A & B teams in lead-up games, belting the tripe out of each other to be selected in the national team.
Wouldn't it be better for this 'triping' to be done against Oz regional teams, in an Oceanic Regional Conference held during the months of June-July, including teams from PNG, Vanuatu, Solomons etc.
By its nature, it would elicit the same following as 7's tournaments, with the games held in Oz centres. A 'pool' concept of 3 teams apiece would allow progressions , so that the PI teams could get on with their P6 tournament. While the teams are assembled , consolation plate games can be played eg WA Country vs PNG A , Tonga B vs Nth Qld . Would fans go to these games ? If they were played in regional centres - of course !
The aims of APC would be achieved, Oceanic teams will draw crowds + showcase their talent for S14 scouts , as would the Oz regions.
Each Oz State could run a pool , which altered each year in its visiting teams or team. Oz players get to step up a level from metro teams, and play against other state regions + PI teams. What could be better for developing Oz Rugby.
In capitalizing on S14 teams , their strength ,organization and travelling expertise is best utilized by servicing our other southern hemisphere rugby friends , the South Americans , with a tour of Argentina , Chile,Paraguay,Brazil , like the Reds have already done. It could be formalised into an 'over the pole' tournament during June-July. Would fans pay to see that? How many Sth Americans also dwell here now? Lots. Maybe the champion club of each country would be a good match for our S14 teams. It would add impetus to the Sth Am comps as well.