Re: big ben has so much potential he does not utilise -- Pontypool RFC Message Board

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Subject: Re: big ben has so much potential he does not utilise

Author:
Phil McCavity

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Date Posted: 08:49:07 07/22/02 Mon
Author Host/IP: NoHost/148.177.130.120
In reply to: pole crew 's message, "big ben" on 13:38:36 07/16/02 Tue

I believe that the three players that you are detailing as being unfit/overweight are 3 players that have very high potential, skill levels and raw talent. What they do not currently posses is the mental attitude and toughness to succeed at senior level.

It is a crying shame that these players are squandering the outstanding talents they have, which really really fustrates meas I can see what they could achieve.

I believe that the majority of blame for this is the culture that exists in Welsh Rugby. I am of course referring to the beer drinking, kebab/curry-eating culture. When these players where at there most successful was in the period where they played youth Rugby. They all possessed raw talent that made them shine above other players of their own age group. What they and the coaches at Pontypool have failed to do is successfully complete the transgression of the players into senior first class rugby.
At the youth age groups natural selection allowed them to be extremely successful with the minimum of effort with regards fitness, strength etc. In the more level playing field of senior rugby, where players are more developed, committed and skilled, they are no longer able to rely on raw talent alone.
While there is no doubt that a large percentage of their failings are due to their personal attitude and weaknesses with respect to training and diet, without doubt each of these people has the potential to perform at and above the first division level. I believe their main problem is how they have embraced the 'Welsh rugby club drinking culture', which is the demise of so many good players' young and old.
It is down to the players to realise this, and it maybe that the negative comments will give them the kick in the arse they need to become players that can perform to their maximum potential they need the support of the coaches, players and supporters of their club.
If they are not spurred into action then maybe all players in the team should be penalised for under performance. They are indeed rewarded financially for doing well. Why not penalise them for under performing. If an accountant could only count to ten I do not believe he would be in a job for very long. This philosophy could be mirrored in many Welsh club and international teams. The Welsh lineout is an example that springs to mind.

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