Things are looking up in the world of rugby. The corporate sector’s favourite sport is walking on air after a big week of announcements, including an unprecedented injection of funds thanks to a new TV rights deal.

The great news is that this will funnel a huge amount of cash into grass-roots rugby. Canberra – with its small geography and high rugby participation – could be a major beneficiary.

 

 

Earlier in the week, rumours swirled that the Australian Rugby Union (ARU) was expecting revenues of $250 million for the new deal – set to run from 2016-2020. On Wednesday, ARU CEO Bill Pulver held a media call to announce a deal worth $285 million, a stunning 148% increase on the previous arrangement.

 

 

Damian Tyson, Senior Development Officer at The Brumbies, says that the organisation is already putting plans into place for the extra revenue. “Most exciting is the fact we will be looking for a new development officer to grow women’s rugby in Canberra, and the new role will be 100% dedicated to this part of the community. We’re also looking to fill a part time role to encourage and train junior referees to ensure we increase the number of officials running the matches across Canberra.”

 

 

It’s looking to be a big year for The Brumbies in 2016. Once the football finally starts, fans can expect to see a side that learned from the last two years, and for the first time in three seasons will have the full commitment of the man voted the ‘Player of the Rugby World Cup’: David Pocock. It will also be the last year The Brumbies can enjoy the services of their current captain, Stephen Moore.

There are eleven Wallabies in The Brumbies' squad, so its definitely time to lay claim a third Super Rugby title. The 2016 season will see new challenges, including a newteam from South Africa (Southern Kings) as well as sides representing Argentina and Japan. The Brumbies commence their tilt at the title on Friday 26 February against The Hurricanes.

[Brumbies]