Sligo Chamber of Commerce’s Post

Well done Bernard . Giving back is essential.

The British & Irish Lions: Roaring Across Rugby History The British & Irish Lions, often simply referred to as the Lions, represent a unique fusion of rugby talent from England, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales. This storied team embarks on quadrennial tours to face rugby powerhouses like Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. Let’s delve into the rich history and exciting prospects of the Lions: 1. Origins and Tradition The Lions’ lineage dates back to 1888 when they embarked on their inaugural tour to Australia and New Zealand. The iconic red jersey, adorned with the emblematic lion, symbolizes unity across the four nations. The tradition of selecting the best players from each country ensures fierce competition and camaraderie. 2. Memorable Tours The 1971 tour to New Zealand remains legendary. Under captain Willie John McBride, the Lions secured their only series victory against the All Blacks. The 1997 tour of South Africa, led by Martin Johnson, saw the Lions clinch a thrilling series win. The 2013 tour to Australia showcased the Lions’ attacking prowess, with players like George North leaving indelible marks. 3. Upcoming Challenges The next Lions tour is scheduled for 2025, with Australia as the battleground. Who will don the iconic red jersey? Stars from the 2024 Six Nations, like Immanuel Feyi-Waboso, are in contention. The Lions’ clash with the Wallabies promises exhilarating rugby and fierce battles in the scrum. 4. The Spirit of the Lions Beyond the tries and tackles, the Lions embody sportsmanship, respect, and passion. The haka response, the camaraderie among rivals, and the shared pride in representing four nations make the Lions truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned rugby fan or a newcomer, keep an eye out for the Lions’ roaring journey Down Under in 2025. 🦁🏉 #LionsRugby #RugbyTour #Rugbypassion #Lionspride #SixNations

A dry Croke Park.. The GAA is displaying a commendable example of prioritising responsible alcohol consumption over financial gain, especially in the context of their stance on alcohol consumption at sporting events. Unlike the scenarios where American football and Bruce Springsteen concerts at Croke Park allow fans to enjoy alcoholic beverages from their seats, the GAA's approach warrants attention for its forward-thinking stance on public health and safety when it comes to Irish sport. This discrepancy isn't merely about creating a double standard but underscores a deeper commitment to encouraging more responsible alcohol consumption among fans, irrespective of the event when it comes to Irish sport. What rockers or other foreign sports do is not relevant to it. Thems their rules. In not extending the permission to consume alcohol directly in the seating areas to all events, the GAA indirectly supports efforts made elsewhere, like the rugby Principality Stadium in Wales and Twickenham, to offer a more inclusive and comfortable environment for all attendees. It reflects government health policy. Irish rugby choses to ignore this The GAA's stance reflects its values. Rugby had a choice whether to accept these values and are lucky to be allowed to play at Croke Park at all

A child's finger near a father perhaps says: "Look, what a big game!" Marcus Smith slotted it for a slim win in final seconds. Danny Care got 100 caps. The mother of England rugby captain Jamie George recently died. Ireland played as Ireland do - a team, attitude and ethos that speaks to 'the art of the possible'. Up there. All of them & beyond. Like Gareth Southgate on the 'round' rather than 'oval' ball front, they walk like us all with ghosts of things past with recast stories of what was, what is today and what could and might be tomorrow.   Jonny Wilkinson talked in today's post-match chat amid this evolving Six Nations series of moments when one is "looking for inspiration in life" and how in the 'game' one is often defined in a moment. That is the world we are in.   It’s only #rugby, only a game, only 80 minutes, only #sport.   As a #kiwi who has lived on this island for more time than I have lived in Aotearoa I get why the business of sport in and beyond rugby plays into various key narratives and marketing initiatives so heavily and so heavily into the global business of business.   Teamwork, focus, delivering to plan, going faster, growing & having a belief that runs up to and through the / our final whistle.   What’s not to like?   Sometimes sport goes beyond a game.   Sometimes moments in sport are metaphors for lives.   Sometimes what one wins is not as important as how, why and when one wins.   Sometimes little moments have a power to change things. That can matter in your world, this world, our world. As always, there is a support team helping players come alive on and off the field. Remember the support. It matters.   Life – is sometimes a game, a story, a moment. No LinkedIn ‘so what do you think about this?’ here …   Just sharing a moment ... from a moment ...   #teamwork #sport #motivation #life #ENGvIRE England Rugby Carpe Diem

Let’s Get Behind School Rugby Throughout the course of this week, the National Schools’ Rugby Sevens will see over 14,000 players in over 1000 teams compete in a variety of competitions. Some are here to win it, some aiming to progress further than before and others participating for the experience. Whilst Rugby is addressing legitimate challenges, it is also a game that continues to capture the imagination of large numbers. The era of compulsory rugby is long gone, and these children are participating because they love the game. It never was a sport for everyone, but continues to be one which enriches the lives of many, providing lifelong memories and friendships. There is something captivatingly attractive about Rugby, though its leaders are curiously reluctant to articulate its benefits more widely. Those of us who have been positively impacted by the game have to be more vocal in our support: the modern game is a niche experience, with unique benefits and challenges. But, those who love it, love it as much as they ever did. Let’s get behind school Rugby - and lifelong friendships

Legends of English Rugby are bowing out tonight when Northampton Saints host Saracens in the Premiership semi-final. It’s going to be au revoir for either Courtney Lawes and Lewis Ludlam from Northampton or Owen Farrell, Mako Vunipola and Billy Vunipola. The winners will only have 1 more week before they are across the channel too. Whichever side of the fence you sit on it's going to be an emotional evening. The bigger picture is that these 5 players are going to be lost to the English Club Game. They have a lot still to offer, they don't want to go but their clubs can't afford them. This is the real sadness. From what's been reported all 5 would rather stay here and see their career out over the next number of years. Questions have to be asked of the RFU and Premiership Rugby. How has the Premiership been overtaken by France and Japan as the richest places in the world to play rugby? Why can't we afford to pay our players more than France and Japan?

The importance of holistically developing professional athletes in practice...

Balancing Act: Media Release Wallabies Ranking The Wallabies’ world ranking at ten highlights further the immediate challenges and the importance of long-term strategic planning for Australian rugby sustainability. While the immediate need to elevate our world standing is crucial for the growth and visibility of the brand and the game, it’s equally important not to lose sight of the broader goal of whole-game alignment. In the short term, enhancing the performance of the Wallabies is paramount to regain momentum and credibility on the domestic and international stage. A higher world ranking boosts confidence in Rugby Australia but also attracts greater attention from fans, sponsors, and media, thereby contributing to the overall growth of the sport. However, a singular focus on short-term success should not come at the expense of long-range visions for the holistic development of Australian rugby. Whole-game alignment, encompassing talent development, grassroots engagement, and structural reform, is essential for sustained growth, domestic presence and competitiveness in the (global) rugby landscape. If ever a time for collective buy-in and philosophical balance and unity, it is now.

In the world of rugby, there are few things more exhilarating than witnessing an underdog rise to the occasion and triumph against the odds. England's recent victory over Ireland in rugby is a testament to the power of positivity, teamwork, and the willingness to embrace change. When England stepped onto the pitch as the underdogs against Ireland, few predicted the outcome - as the game unfolded, it became clear that this was a team determined to defy expectations and write their own story. They showed resilience in the face of adversity, refusing to be daunted by the challenges ahead. One of the most inspiring aspects of England's performance was their ability to come together as a cohesive unit. Despite the pressure and intensity of the match, they remained united in their pursuit of victory. Each player knew their role and executed it with precision, demonstrating the importance of trust and collaboration on the field. Let’s be honest – for the first time in a while. But perhaps what was most striking about England's performance was their willingness to try new things – for England! They embraced innovation and experimentation, unafraid to push the boundaries of conventional normal English tactics. This willingness to adapt and evolve is what sets great teams apart from the rest, and it was evident in every pass, tackle, and try. As we reflect on England's triumph over Ireland, we are reminded of the power of positivity, teamwork, and innovation. It serves as a timely reminder that with the right attitude and a collective effort, anything is possible. Who knows, perhaps this victory is just the beginning of something truly special for English rugby – but let’s not get ahead of ourselves as the French await England next week!! So, whether you're the underdog or facing a rough patch, remember to regroup, focus on improvement, prioritise teamwork and let enthusiasm power your journey to success! #teamwork #enthusiasm #underdog

An invaluable few days at Rugby Australia engaging with some quality people. Rugby in Australia is poised for a transformative decade with landmark events on the horizon: the 2025 Lions Tour, the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup, and the 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cup. These events are set to elevate the game both domestically, in the Pacific and globally. Since Rugby Australia’s strategic reset & recharge last year, it is evident that planning and execution towards achieving their goals on and off the field are well underway. The forward-thinking concepts, initiatives, and programs within their performance and community development efforts are world-class. In one of the most competitive sporting landscapes this is a significant undertaking by one of our key Member Unions. With the continued alignment of vital stakeholders and the ongoing support of valued partners, the journey ahead for rugby in Australia and the Pacific looks both exciting and promising. #leadership #partnership #movingthegameforward World Rugby Oceania Rugby