Yesterday morning I went through my morning ritual of reading the Rocky Mountain News and discovered a story that caught my attention. The headline read, Rugby rivals could play in Denver. Much to my surprise, I learned that my fair city may be hosting the 2009 Bledisloe Cup. For those of you who do not know, that is "The Match" between heated rivals the All Blacks of New Zealand and the Wallabies of Australia. In the Rocky, Metro Denver Sports Commission President, KieAnn Brownell says, "We're pretty close." She goes on to say, "Our job is to get out of the box, to look for events that aren't necessarily on the country's radar."
A few years ago I had the pleasure of keynoting a brand conference in Sydney, where I had the pleasure of seeing the event there. Hosting this event would be huge for Denver, and the United States. Like me, many brand champions for rugby would result. Not to mention having this event in the United States would enhance the US brand and enhance Denver's reputation as an emerging international city. For her efforts, KieAnn Brownell is the Brand Champion of the Day!
What do you think about Denver, and the United States hosting the 2009 Bledisloe Cup?
This idea has been around for a few months now, and I having been born and bred and raised on rugby in New Zealand am very excited at the prospect. There are alot of rugby followers in the greater central region of the US and many would fly from other regions. I would bring my family of 4 and in this little town of 900 there would be another 20 or so. I know that will not full up the stadium but many will note the sigificance of the a maych such as this held here. Not to mention there would be many who travel from New Zealand and Australia, to watch the old rivals face off at mile high. Most hard core fans usually follow the team to the usual rugby venues around the world. Some fans have made the trip to the same places more than once (Europe or South Africa) and would relish an opportunity to go visit a different part of the world to see the All Blacks and Wallabies play. Generally they come a few days before the game, go sight seeing, watch the game then break down and do side trips etc. Some would stay and spend money longer than others. I fully support such an event. My two young boys, born in America, already know the game etc, and to see their Dads old team would be a significant family experience. So long as the All Blacks keep the Bledisloe Cup.
Posted by: Tim O'Neill | November 29, 2008 at 09:37 AM
Tim,
It is tremendous to hear from you. Your insights and experiences make the prospects of the match here in Denver, that much more exciting. Thanks for contributing some thoughts!
Posted by: Rex Whisman | November 29, 2008 at 10:25 AM