By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jackie_A_De_Burca]Jackie A De Burca
Any idea which rugby player has a reputation of being passionate about penguins and has been nicknamed Dingo? This rugby player went to school in Ealing and he celebrates his birthday on 5th July; which means he is born under the star sign Cancer. As a boy, this rugby player grew up on rugby, as both of his parents were rugby fanatics and has worn some different rugby kits and has given his time voluntarily at London Zoo. The answer is Joe Simpson.
Currently Joe is on the Rugby World Cup training squad of 45 players. In the lead up to the 2011 Rugby World Cup one of the best birthday gifts (5th July) that Joe could get is to make it through from the 45 men down to the final 30 for the England Rugby's World Cup Team.
He was on the England squad against Australian Barbarians, but was not capped and remained on the bench for the match. Let's see if he is chosen for the Rugby World Cup and if he is if he can do us proud!
A professional rugby player, Joe plays the scrum half position for both the London Wasps and the England Saxons national rugby union team. Born in Australia, the son of two big rugby fans; which is not altogether surprising, as his mother hails from New Zealand and his father is English. His parents also have a younger son called Michael.
During this school going years, Joe attended the St. Benedict School, located in the London Borough of Ealing. There Simpson played for his school as both a cricket player and a rugby player. Right throughout the three different levels of schooling, Joe won the Victor Ludorum; an award for athletics on three different occasions.
Away from school, Simpson was a cricket player at Ealing Cricket Club and a rugby player with the Richmond Rugby Club Team, where he played with Dominic Waldouck.
As well as rugby and cricket, Joe hung out with some interesting characters, playing golf in the summertime. These characters are Joe's friends but they have funny names like Nathan "knockout" Nye!
Apart from his friends, other important influences in his life are those who have coached him at Wasps and Richmond and of course his parents. These people have been inspirational to him.
In the animal world, penguins are what do it for Joe! He frequently comments on his fondness of penguins, and he has worked for free because of this at the London Zoo.
During his rugby career, he was wearing the rugby kits of the London Wasps from summertime 2006 as a full timer at the Academy, but in the following couple of years was out on loan to Blackheath Rugby Club.
Internationally, during the 2007 to 2008 season Simpson won a position on the England Sevens Side, appearing in the World Seven Series, and was named to the England Under 20's team. He finished the season with a nomination for the Young Player of the Year Award, from the IRB.
During the season of 2008/9, he was promoted to the Wasps first team, initially for a substitution and gaining a more frequent position on the starting fifteen in the second half of the season. In 2009 Joe signed a contract with London Wasps, which he extended by three years in December of 2010. For the Guinness award "Try of the Season" he was in fourth place.
By June 2009, Joe was in the England Saxons squad playing and being declared as the man of the match, in the Churchill Cup in Colorado. May of 2010 saw Simpson as one of the nine players called to the English team, who were all uncapped at that time. In Joe's case, just nine minutes before the end of a Barbarians England match, he was substituted for David Strettle. However as luck would have it he injured his left hamstring and had to be pulled out of the tour.
Sydney born Simpson was named on the 2011 Six Nations England team. He has not had a lot of luck when it comes to injuries however he hasn't lost what makes him a potentially dangerous opponent - let's see how 2011 onwards go for Joe and if he'll appear in the Rugby World Cup sporting his national rugby kit or not!
Jackie writes about Joe Simpson, in a series of players' bios featured on the Team Colours blog. Team Colours is an excellent resource for all sports. Your team can buy quality customised rugby kits, which you can design online if you wish. Buy rugby kit at Team Colours, for the ultimate in kit quality and experience. http://www.team-colours.co.uk/rugby/
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?All-About-Joe-Simpson---From-the-England-Rugby-Kits-And-Players-Series&id=6379765] All About Joe Simpson - From the England Rugby Kits And Players Series
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Thursday, January 12, 2012
Rugby League and Rugby Union - Knowing the Trophies and Trophy Winners
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nico_B_Rama]Nico B Rama
Rugby League and Rugby Union originated from a single sport called Rugby Football Union, which saw its beginnings in England. Sometime in the 19th century, several teams broke away, because of some disagreements in payments to its players. This breakaway group led to the rise of Rugby League, which now has simpler rules than Rugby Union. The two sports are now considered separate and distinct from one another, although both are equal in popularity in countries like Australia.
The latter, at present, is being governed across the globe by the International Rugby Board (IRB). Among the most prestigious Rugby Union trophies is the one awarded in its World Cup which takes place every four years. It is called the Webb Ellis Cup, which is named after William Webb Ellis. He was an English schoolboy who is believed to be the inventor of the sport. It was first awarded in 1987 and commissioned by the sport's governing board.
Its other celebrated competitions include the Six Nations Tournament and the Tri Nations, both separately crown their champions. The top-ranking international teams in this sport are Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, England, Wales, Scotland, and France. In the middle of all the worldwide competitions there are different test matches and series, usually part of the tours by national teams that normally happen from September to December and from June to August.
On the other hand, Rugby League is governed by the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF). The most coveted Rugby League trophy is the one awarded to the champion of its own World Cup, which prominently features the top 12 teams in the world and 2 qualifiers. It is also played every four years. Its other distinguished tournaments include the Women's RL World Cup, and the RL Four Nations. A separate crown is given in each competition, including regional ones, such as the RL European Cup, the Pacific Cup, and the Atlantic Cup.
The top nations of this sport are Australia, New Zealand, England, Fiji, France, and Papua New Guinea, where it is considered the national sport. These countries vie for several Rugby League trophies worldwide.
The Rugby League World Cup trophy was commissioned by Paul Barri�re, who was the president of the league's French Federation, for the first RL World Cup in 1954, which was held in France. Their most celebrated trophy cost 8,000,000 francs at the time it was made and had a very colorful history, including its disappearance in 1970. [http://www.awardsandtrophies.com.au/Select/s27/Rugby-Touch.aspx]Rugby League trophies can be purchased online complete with free engraving. Also available are touch football trophies and medals and an extensive range of other awards.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-League-and-Rugby-Union---Knowing-the-Trophies-and-Trophy-Winners&id=6399365] Rugby League and Rugby Union - Knowing the Trophies and Trophy Winners
Rugby League and Rugby Union originated from a single sport called Rugby Football Union, which saw its beginnings in England. Sometime in the 19th century, several teams broke away, because of some disagreements in payments to its players. This breakaway group led to the rise of Rugby League, which now has simpler rules than Rugby Union. The two sports are now considered separate and distinct from one another, although both are equal in popularity in countries like Australia.
The latter, at present, is being governed across the globe by the International Rugby Board (IRB). Among the most prestigious Rugby Union trophies is the one awarded in its World Cup which takes place every four years. It is called the Webb Ellis Cup, which is named after William Webb Ellis. He was an English schoolboy who is believed to be the inventor of the sport. It was first awarded in 1987 and commissioned by the sport's governing board.
Its other celebrated competitions include the Six Nations Tournament and the Tri Nations, both separately crown their champions. The top-ranking international teams in this sport are Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, England, Wales, Scotland, and France. In the middle of all the worldwide competitions there are different test matches and series, usually part of the tours by national teams that normally happen from September to December and from June to August.
On the other hand, Rugby League is governed by the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF). The most coveted Rugby League trophy is the one awarded to the champion of its own World Cup, which prominently features the top 12 teams in the world and 2 qualifiers. It is also played every four years. Its other distinguished tournaments include the Women's RL World Cup, and the RL Four Nations. A separate crown is given in each competition, including regional ones, such as the RL European Cup, the Pacific Cup, and the Atlantic Cup.
The top nations of this sport are Australia, New Zealand, England, Fiji, France, and Papua New Guinea, where it is considered the national sport. These countries vie for several Rugby League trophies worldwide.
The Rugby League World Cup trophy was commissioned by Paul Barri�re, who was the president of the league's French Federation, for the first RL World Cup in 1954, which was held in France. Their most celebrated trophy cost 8,000,000 francs at the time it was made and had a very colorful history, including its disappearance in 1970. [http://www.awardsandtrophies.com.au/Select/s27/Rugby-Touch.aspx]Rugby League trophies can be purchased online complete with free engraving. Also available are touch football trophies and medals and an extensive range of other awards.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Rugby-League-and-Rugby-Union---Knowing-the-Trophies-and-Trophy-Winners&id=6399365] Rugby League and Rugby Union - Knowing the Trophies and Trophy Winners
Tuesday, January 10, 2012
History of the Webb Ellis Cup
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Sarah_Fredrickson]Sarah Fredrickson
Every rugby player dreams of winning the famous Rugby World Cup trophy one day, but few players, and even fewer fans, know the story of how the trophy got its name, the William Webb Ellis Cup.
Legend has it that in 1823, William Webb Ellis was attending Rugby in England and playing for the school team when he picked up a football and ran with it. With that simple act, William unintentionally created the game of rugby and changed world sports forever. While William certainly did attend Rugby, the truth of the legend about rugby's invention remains unverified. Nevertheless, history credits him with accidentally creating the much-loved game.
Rugby is an elite and expensive private school in Britain's system that is strangely called public. William's widowed mother had very little money with which to educate her son, but Rugby granted scholarships to young men who lived within a ten-mile area surrounding the school. Since William and his mother lived in that area, he was able to attend the privileged school.
William would probably be surprised to know that his name is so famous today and still more surprised at its connection to the game of rugby. He was more serious about playing cricket at the school and continued to be a cricketer while attending Oxford University as well. After graduation from Oxford, he became an evangelical clergyman.
The William Webb Ellis Cup, the Rugby World Cup, was fashioned by Garrard's of London, the crown jeweller famous throughout the world. The jeweller's inspiration for the trophy came from the ornate but classic design of a cup that was crafted in 1740. The gold-plated solid silver trophy features two striking scroll handles. One handle has a satyr head on it, and the other has a nymph head. The renowned jeweller created the trophy for the International Rugby Football Board, which is now the IRB, over 100 years ago, many years before the first RWC competition. However, it sat out of sight in a vault for many years.
While the first Rugby World Cup was in the planning stages in 1987, the exquisite trophy was rescued from its dark vault and revealed to the organisers of the event. They ultimately chose it to be the trophy for the tournament, and Kiwis Dick Littlejohn and Bob Stuart, Aussies Ross Turnbull and Nick Shehadie, Irishman Ronnie Dawson and Welshman Keith Rowlands approved the selection. The glistening trophy is now one of the most coveted prizes in the sports world.
Sarah is a freelance travel writer from New Zealand. With the Rugby World Cup just around the corner and being played in her backyard she'll be covering a lot more rugby related topics in the near future. You can find more info on the [http://www.skysport.co.nz/rugby-webb-ellis-cup/]Webb Ellis Cup at skysport.co.nz
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?History-of-the-Webb-Ellis-Cup&id=6422710] History of the Webb Ellis Cup
Every rugby player dreams of winning the famous Rugby World Cup trophy one day, but few players, and even fewer fans, know the story of how the trophy got its name, the William Webb Ellis Cup.
Legend has it that in 1823, William Webb Ellis was attending Rugby in England and playing for the school team when he picked up a football and ran with it. With that simple act, William unintentionally created the game of rugby and changed world sports forever. While William certainly did attend Rugby, the truth of the legend about rugby's invention remains unverified. Nevertheless, history credits him with accidentally creating the much-loved game.
Rugby is an elite and expensive private school in Britain's system that is strangely called public. William's widowed mother had very little money with which to educate her son, but Rugby granted scholarships to young men who lived within a ten-mile area surrounding the school. Since William and his mother lived in that area, he was able to attend the privileged school.
William would probably be surprised to know that his name is so famous today and still more surprised at its connection to the game of rugby. He was more serious about playing cricket at the school and continued to be a cricketer while attending Oxford University as well. After graduation from Oxford, he became an evangelical clergyman.
The William Webb Ellis Cup, the Rugby World Cup, was fashioned by Garrard's of London, the crown jeweller famous throughout the world. The jeweller's inspiration for the trophy came from the ornate but classic design of a cup that was crafted in 1740. The gold-plated solid silver trophy features two striking scroll handles. One handle has a satyr head on it, and the other has a nymph head. The renowned jeweller created the trophy for the International Rugby Football Board, which is now the IRB, over 100 years ago, many years before the first RWC competition. However, it sat out of sight in a vault for many years.
While the first Rugby World Cup was in the planning stages in 1987, the exquisite trophy was rescued from its dark vault and revealed to the organisers of the event. They ultimately chose it to be the trophy for the tournament, and Kiwis Dick Littlejohn and Bob Stuart, Aussies Ross Turnbull and Nick Shehadie, Irishman Ronnie Dawson and Welshman Keith Rowlands approved the selection. The glistening trophy is now one of the most coveted prizes in the sports world.
Sarah is a freelance travel writer from New Zealand. With the Rugby World Cup just around the corner and being played in her backyard she'll be covering a lot more rugby related topics in the near future. You can find more info on the [http://www.skysport.co.nz/rugby-webb-ellis-cup/]Webb Ellis Cup at skysport.co.nz
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?History-of-the-Webb-Ellis-Cup&id=6422710] History of the Webb Ellis Cup
Sunday, January 8, 2012
Periodization of Training for Amateur Rugby Coaches
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Steve_P_Carter]Steve P Carter
I am writing this article for the benefit of the Amateur Rugby Coach who may be well versed in tactics and skill training of their Rugby Team but are not so up to speed on the Conditioning Element of training. This will give a simple insight into how a team coach should put together a pre-season programme and how to maintain any gains that are made throughout the playing season.
Rugby is a complicated sport as far as conditioning is concerned. It is neither an Endurance Sport nor an out and out power sport. If you were to draw a straight line and place Sprinting at one end of the line and a marathon at the other end of the line and call it a continuum, then Rugby would fit somewhere in the middle, maybe edging toward the power end.
Before you can put any training programme into use, it is important to carry out what is known as a needs analysis. This means looking at the physical demands on the player and the team that the sport makes. A short list would look something like this.
Skill
Speed
Power
Strength
Endurance
Suppleness and Mobility
Each of the above subheadings show what the demands of the sport are, however, some positions will require more of one aspect than another. That is to say, an outside back would need to concentrate more on Speed work than a Prop forward, this is because, the Prop forward requires great strength and good stamina as opposed to the Outside back who needs great Speed and Power and not so much Stamina as his continuous involvement in the game is less than the prop forwards.
At a professional level where the team has conditioning coaches, each playing position can be conditioned individually, however, this is not usually possible for the amateur coach as there is a lack of knowledgeable coaches to deliver position based programmes, not only that, but the amount of time the amateur coach is exposed to the team is far less than in the professional game. So the Amateur coach has to adopt a plan that will get the most from his team with the time, tools and coaches available, to do this, using Periodisation of training will be the most effective way.
Periodisation of training is a fancy name for time management. It was first used in the Eastern Block back in the 60's. It means that each stage of training is allocated a particular time frame.
Pre-season training will normally be around 12 weeks long with the playing season taking into account the weather and postponements of games being around 30 -36 weeks long. This means that the coach has to prepare the team in 12 weeks and then keep them at a good level of conditioning for a further 30-36 weeks, no easy task.
First things first.
Before starting out and making any plan, the coach must do some form of basic testing, to find out the current conditioning level of the team. From the results of these tests, he will be able to decide where he/she must direct the main effort of conditioning training.
I am going to assume that these days; most Amateur clubs have access to a gym that has free weights and also a field that they can train on.
Common tests that can be used and are simple to administer are the following
Speed. 10 and 30 meter speed tests
Agility. The Agility T test or the 5-10-5 Pro Agility Test
Power. The Vertical Jump Test & The 5 standing Broad Jump Test
Strength. The 1 Rep Maximum Bench Press. The 1 Rep Maximum Squat Test. The 1 Rep Maximum Pull Up Test
Endurance. The 5 minute Run Test
After the testing phase and the coach has decided what needs training the most he/she can sit down and make out his/ her basic Periodisation plan.
I have set out a Hypothetical pre-season training programme below. I have decided that the team needed to concentrate on all aspects of their training equally after seeing the testing results. During the pre-season and your competition phase, some weeks should be lighter in volume than others; I would suggest every fourth week is good for this.
We have established that 12 weeks are available for Pre-season Training. Now we have to split these 12 weeks up into smaller training phases. Each Training phase will last 4 weeks (These we will call Mesocycles) and each week in each training phase is called a Micro cycle. The whole season will be called a Macro Cycle. So Periodisation has Macro cycles (the whole training period), Meso Cycles (Phases of the training period) and Micro cycles (weeks within the training phases).
Now to split the Pre-season up, you can have Macro cycle 1 = 4 weeks. Macro cycle 2= 4 weeks. Macro Cycle 3 = 4 weeks. The competition period (when you have your games) is split up similarly.
You will now have to allocate the type of training you want to be the main effort to each of the Macro cycles. At the start of the pre season, fitness training is very important and so is strength training. These two elements are called General Preparation. So Macro Cycle 1 will be called; The General Preparation Period (GPP)
During this period it is suggested that you work on Basic Strength work, mainly Muscular Growth (Hypertrophy) which means that your strength training should revolve around 8 - 12 repetitions at 65-80% of 1 rep maximum Lifts.
Running should be based around longer distance Interval Training. For example 2 x 5 x 400 mtr runs at 80% effort, with 120 seconds recovery between runs and 5 minutes recovery between sets.
You would build the training volume up over the GPP.
Next is Macro cycle 2. That will be known as the Sport Specific Preparation Period. At this stage you would start to put your main effort toward Skill and Team development, physically you would now have a shift toward Basic Strength training, this means your lifting would be 3 - 6 repetitions at 75-90% of 1 repetition Maximum weight. Your Conditioning work would still be running based, but now is the time to bring the distances down. Now you should be looking at more intense interval work Distances should be 100 - 200 meter sprints. Up to 5 x 200 and 6 - 8 100. Rest times should be around 2 to 3 minutes between repetitions. And they should be run at 85-90% of maximum speed. You should also start to bring in some type of Agility training at the start of your conditioning sessions; these can be skill based and could last 10 - 20 minutes. This phase is abbreviated to SSPP
The final phase of the Pre-season training programme is referred to as the Pre-competition Phase (PCP) as a coach you should now be concentrating much more on Team Drills and getting all your set piece sorted. Physically it is now all about the team peaking for optimum performance for the first game; the majority of fitness work should be Power related, High intensity sprint drills with longer rest periods and a lot more skill bases agility work. Just keeping your fitness gains topped up. In the last week prior to the first game of the season, training should be intense but probably only a third of the volume that you have been doing over the pre-season.
Now that you are into the competition phase of the season, you should split the season up into further Meso cycles where you can concentrate on topping up your fitness, power, speed and agility etc, throughout the season, these Meso cycles can be from 4 -6 weeks long.
Please bear in mind that the above explanation and examples are exactly that, examples! The model has been written purely so that you as a coach have a basic understanding of a Basic Periodisation Model. I hope you have found the article informative. For further information on Periodisation please visit my website listed in the resource box below.
Steve would like to invite you to get further quality information in the form of Free e:books, PDF Downloads, Articles and Exercise videos at http://www.ultimateperformancecentre.com all you have to do is register, and all the information is yours with our compliments.
I hope you enjoy it.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Periodization-of-Training-for-Amateur-Rugby-Coaches&id=6412700] Periodization of Training for Amateur Rugby Coaches
I am writing this article for the benefit of the Amateur Rugby Coach who may be well versed in tactics and skill training of their Rugby Team but are not so up to speed on the Conditioning Element of training. This will give a simple insight into how a team coach should put together a pre-season programme and how to maintain any gains that are made throughout the playing season.
Rugby is a complicated sport as far as conditioning is concerned. It is neither an Endurance Sport nor an out and out power sport. If you were to draw a straight line and place Sprinting at one end of the line and a marathon at the other end of the line and call it a continuum, then Rugby would fit somewhere in the middle, maybe edging toward the power end.
Before you can put any training programme into use, it is important to carry out what is known as a needs analysis. This means looking at the physical demands on the player and the team that the sport makes. A short list would look something like this.
Skill
Speed
Power
Strength
Endurance
Suppleness and Mobility
Each of the above subheadings show what the demands of the sport are, however, some positions will require more of one aspect than another. That is to say, an outside back would need to concentrate more on Speed work than a Prop forward, this is because, the Prop forward requires great strength and good stamina as opposed to the Outside back who needs great Speed and Power and not so much Stamina as his continuous involvement in the game is less than the prop forwards.
At a professional level where the team has conditioning coaches, each playing position can be conditioned individually, however, this is not usually possible for the amateur coach as there is a lack of knowledgeable coaches to deliver position based programmes, not only that, but the amount of time the amateur coach is exposed to the team is far less than in the professional game. So the Amateur coach has to adopt a plan that will get the most from his team with the time, tools and coaches available, to do this, using Periodisation of training will be the most effective way.
Periodisation of training is a fancy name for time management. It was first used in the Eastern Block back in the 60's. It means that each stage of training is allocated a particular time frame.
Pre-season training will normally be around 12 weeks long with the playing season taking into account the weather and postponements of games being around 30 -36 weeks long. This means that the coach has to prepare the team in 12 weeks and then keep them at a good level of conditioning for a further 30-36 weeks, no easy task.
First things first.
Before starting out and making any plan, the coach must do some form of basic testing, to find out the current conditioning level of the team. From the results of these tests, he will be able to decide where he/she must direct the main effort of conditioning training.
I am going to assume that these days; most Amateur clubs have access to a gym that has free weights and also a field that they can train on.
Common tests that can be used and are simple to administer are the following
Speed. 10 and 30 meter speed tests
Agility. The Agility T test or the 5-10-5 Pro Agility Test
Power. The Vertical Jump Test & The 5 standing Broad Jump Test
Strength. The 1 Rep Maximum Bench Press. The 1 Rep Maximum Squat Test. The 1 Rep Maximum Pull Up Test
Endurance. The 5 minute Run Test
After the testing phase and the coach has decided what needs training the most he/she can sit down and make out his/ her basic Periodisation plan.
I have set out a Hypothetical pre-season training programme below. I have decided that the team needed to concentrate on all aspects of their training equally after seeing the testing results. During the pre-season and your competition phase, some weeks should be lighter in volume than others; I would suggest every fourth week is good for this.
We have established that 12 weeks are available for Pre-season Training. Now we have to split these 12 weeks up into smaller training phases. Each Training phase will last 4 weeks (These we will call Mesocycles) and each week in each training phase is called a Micro cycle. The whole season will be called a Macro Cycle. So Periodisation has Macro cycles (the whole training period), Meso Cycles (Phases of the training period) and Micro cycles (weeks within the training phases).
Now to split the Pre-season up, you can have Macro cycle 1 = 4 weeks. Macro cycle 2= 4 weeks. Macro Cycle 3 = 4 weeks. The competition period (when you have your games) is split up similarly.
You will now have to allocate the type of training you want to be the main effort to each of the Macro cycles. At the start of the pre season, fitness training is very important and so is strength training. These two elements are called General Preparation. So Macro Cycle 1 will be called; The General Preparation Period (GPP)
During this period it is suggested that you work on Basic Strength work, mainly Muscular Growth (Hypertrophy) which means that your strength training should revolve around 8 - 12 repetitions at 65-80% of 1 rep maximum Lifts.
Running should be based around longer distance Interval Training. For example 2 x 5 x 400 mtr runs at 80% effort, with 120 seconds recovery between runs and 5 minutes recovery between sets.
You would build the training volume up over the GPP.
Next is Macro cycle 2. That will be known as the Sport Specific Preparation Period. At this stage you would start to put your main effort toward Skill and Team development, physically you would now have a shift toward Basic Strength training, this means your lifting would be 3 - 6 repetitions at 75-90% of 1 repetition Maximum weight. Your Conditioning work would still be running based, but now is the time to bring the distances down. Now you should be looking at more intense interval work Distances should be 100 - 200 meter sprints. Up to 5 x 200 and 6 - 8 100. Rest times should be around 2 to 3 minutes between repetitions. And they should be run at 85-90% of maximum speed. You should also start to bring in some type of Agility training at the start of your conditioning sessions; these can be skill based and could last 10 - 20 minutes. This phase is abbreviated to SSPP
The final phase of the Pre-season training programme is referred to as the Pre-competition Phase (PCP) as a coach you should now be concentrating much more on Team Drills and getting all your set piece sorted. Physically it is now all about the team peaking for optimum performance for the first game; the majority of fitness work should be Power related, High intensity sprint drills with longer rest periods and a lot more skill bases agility work. Just keeping your fitness gains topped up. In the last week prior to the first game of the season, training should be intense but probably only a third of the volume that you have been doing over the pre-season.
Now that you are into the competition phase of the season, you should split the season up into further Meso cycles where you can concentrate on topping up your fitness, power, speed and agility etc, throughout the season, these Meso cycles can be from 4 -6 weeks long.
Please bear in mind that the above explanation and examples are exactly that, examples! The model has been written purely so that you as a coach have a basic understanding of a Basic Periodisation Model. I hope you have found the article informative. For further information on Periodisation please visit my website listed in the resource box below.
Steve would like to invite you to get further quality information in the form of Free e:books, PDF Downloads, Articles and Exercise videos at http://www.ultimateperformancecentre.com all you have to do is register, and all the information is yours with our compliments.
I hope you enjoy it.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Periodization-of-Training-for-Amateur-Rugby-Coaches&id=6412700] Periodization of Training for Amateur Rugby Coaches
Friday, January 6, 2012
The Anglo All Black
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Mike_Watt]Mike Watt
On the 22nd May 1987, an English fullback walked out onto the pitch of Eden Park in Auckland for the first match of the inaugural Rugby World Cup. His kit was all black. John Gallagher would go on to win the tournament with New Zealand, etching himself into the list of All Black greats and beginning a journey that would see him crowned 'International Player of the Year' in 1990. He never lost a match wearing that jersey.
Now a head teacher in Southeast London, the man once known as Kipper is remembered as one of the finest players of his generation, and will doubtless be watching with fond memories as the Rugby World Cup returns to New Zealand this year for the first time since its inception. We recently caught up with him to talk about the 1987 World Cup, this year's tournament, and his reflections on New Zealand...
The Rugby World Cup returns to New Zealand this year, twenty-four years after its birth. What are your memories of playing in the 1987 World Cup?
I have many happy memories. My All Black Test debut in the inaugural match of the RWC, a game which we won 70-6, was obviously special, as were the four tries I scored against Fiji a few days later, which set a Test match record. The quarter-final against Scotland was significant for me, as my father had just flown in from London and was there to see me score a try from the stands. Otherwise, beating France in the RWC final and being crowned world champions was, of course, pretty memorable!
Who was the best player you played with, and against?
There are quite a few contenders, but it was always good to be in the same team as John Kirwan and Buck Shelford. In opposition, Serge Blanco of France was always a special challenge, together with David Campese of Australia.
What is your fondest memory from your playing career?
I am fortunate enough to have many fond memories; making my All Black debut on my mother's birthday in October 1986 against a French Selection in Strasbourg; winning the first RWC in 1987; being undefeated in my All Black career from 1986-89; being awarded NZ player of the Year in 1989 and International Player of the year in 1990.
My favourite try was against Ireland in 1989 in Dublin, it was special because both my parents were watching as well as all my Irish cousins.
Did you have to learn the Haka when you joined the New Zealand squad? Can you still do it now?
Yes - after the team was named for the Strasbourg match, Buck Shelford (Haka leader) took me to one side and asked me if I had performed the Haka before. I confessed that I hadn't and so he then gave me a crash course in its history and meaning, together with the words and actions.
After about half an hour I wasn't exactly well prepared, and he then said 'Just stand behind me and do what I do!' I still get a number of requests from the pupils in my school; I tend to teach them rather than doing it myself.
What did your New Zealand team do in between the matches of the 1987 World Cup?
Most memorably, a burger eating competition in a well-known fast food chain just outside Napier in the North Island. I was the surprise winner, destroying the reputations of Zinzan Brooke, Andy Earl and Michael Jones in the process.
We were also billeted with families in the Wairarapa; our Coach, Brian Lochore, was from that area and he got all of his farmer mates to put us up for a few days. It was complete escapism for me (completely different to Southeast London), but it also gave all the players a real insight into what the All Blacks meant to the rural communities of NZ.
What five words would you use to sum New Zealand up?
Friendly, beautiful, peaceful, fresh and creative.
What's your favourite thing about New Zealand; what do you miss most?
The fresh air.
Where is your favourite place in New Zealand?
Wellington - when the wind isn't blowing!
What should be on visitors' 'To Do List' when they make their trip to this year's World Cup?
Queenstown - Milford Track; Martinborough Vineyards in the Wairarapa (the Alana Estate Pinot Noir is especially good there); Bluff Oysters (South Island); visit a Marae to experience some traditional Maori culture. There's also plenty of choice on the east coast of the North Island, as well as Lake Taupo (NI) and Fox Glacier (SI).
How much do you value specialist local knowledge about a destination that you are travelling to?
It can be the difference between a good trip and a great trip.
How do you think this year's World Cup will differ from that in 1987? What should fans expect?
It will be much more commercial, many more spectators making the journey from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. With the recent earthquake in Christchurch, I feel the international rugby community will embrace the efforts that the host nation have made, and there will be a very strong bond of fellowship.
Rugby has changed drastically over the past twenty-four years; how is it different now?
In 1987, the game was amateur and the All Blacks were definitely an unknown quantity. They had lost their hold on the Bledisloe Cup as well as being well beaten by France in Nantes in '86. The team had also been split by the rebel tour to South Africa, which also divided public opinion. What's more, the average age of the team was 24!
Now the game is professional. South Africa and Australia are frequent visitors to NZ and know how to win there. Events such as the Autumn Test schedule in the Northern Hemisphere means there is a wealth of knowledge about all of the leading squads.
The All Blacks have had great opportunities to claim their second World Cup victory, especially in 1995 and 2007. There will be very high expectations on all of the young men who don the All Black jersey, but they wouldn't want it any other way!
Who's your pick to win this year's World Cup? And your outside bet?
Well it's New Zealand again - although I've said that every time since '87! I have it on good authority that Japan could be worth a bet, but not until 2019. After Ireland's display against England in March, they demonstrated that they have everything required - except consistency - but if they can get through their group and put three top quality performances together, they could be worth a shout!
For more information on the 2011 Rugby World Cup, along with a comprehensive guide to everything New Zealand has to offer, please visit [http://www.MyDestination.com/NewZealand]http://www.MyDestination.com/NewZealand.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Anglo-All-Black&id=6423277] The Anglo All Black
On the 22nd May 1987, an English fullback walked out onto the pitch of Eden Park in Auckland for the first match of the inaugural Rugby World Cup. His kit was all black. John Gallagher would go on to win the tournament with New Zealand, etching himself into the list of All Black greats and beginning a journey that would see him crowned 'International Player of the Year' in 1990. He never lost a match wearing that jersey.
Now a head teacher in Southeast London, the man once known as Kipper is remembered as one of the finest players of his generation, and will doubtless be watching with fond memories as the Rugby World Cup returns to New Zealand this year for the first time since its inception. We recently caught up with him to talk about the 1987 World Cup, this year's tournament, and his reflections on New Zealand...
The Rugby World Cup returns to New Zealand this year, twenty-four years after its birth. What are your memories of playing in the 1987 World Cup?
I have many happy memories. My All Black Test debut in the inaugural match of the RWC, a game which we won 70-6, was obviously special, as were the four tries I scored against Fiji a few days later, which set a Test match record. The quarter-final against Scotland was significant for me, as my father had just flown in from London and was there to see me score a try from the stands. Otherwise, beating France in the RWC final and being crowned world champions was, of course, pretty memorable!
Who was the best player you played with, and against?
There are quite a few contenders, but it was always good to be in the same team as John Kirwan and Buck Shelford. In opposition, Serge Blanco of France was always a special challenge, together with David Campese of Australia.
What is your fondest memory from your playing career?
I am fortunate enough to have many fond memories; making my All Black debut on my mother's birthday in October 1986 against a French Selection in Strasbourg; winning the first RWC in 1987; being undefeated in my All Black career from 1986-89; being awarded NZ player of the Year in 1989 and International Player of the year in 1990.
My favourite try was against Ireland in 1989 in Dublin, it was special because both my parents were watching as well as all my Irish cousins.
Did you have to learn the Haka when you joined the New Zealand squad? Can you still do it now?
Yes - after the team was named for the Strasbourg match, Buck Shelford (Haka leader) took me to one side and asked me if I had performed the Haka before. I confessed that I hadn't and so he then gave me a crash course in its history and meaning, together with the words and actions.
After about half an hour I wasn't exactly well prepared, and he then said 'Just stand behind me and do what I do!' I still get a number of requests from the pupils in my school; I tend to teach them rather than doing it myself.
What did your New Zealand team do in between the matches of the 1987 World Cup?
Most memorably, a burger eating competition in a well-known fast food chain just outside Napier in the North Island. I was the surprise winner, destroying the reputations of Zinzan Brooke, Andy Earl and Michael Jones in the process.
We were also billeted with families in the Wairarapa; our Coach, Brian Lochore, was from that area and he got all of his farmer mates to put us up for a few days. It was complete escapism for me (completely different to Southeast London), but it also gave all the players a real insight into what the All Blacks meant to the rural communities of NZ.
What five words would you use to sum New Zealand up?
Friendly, beautiful, peaceful, fresh and creative.
What's your favourite thing about New Zealand; what do you miss most?
The fresh air.
Where is your favourite place in New Zealand?
Wellington - when the wind isn't blowing!
What should be on visitors' 'To Do List' when they make their trip to this year's World Cup?
Queenstown - Milford Track; Martinborough Vineyards in the Wairarapa (the Alana Estate Pinot Noir is especially good there); Bluff Oysters (South Island); visit a Marae to experience some traditional Maori culture. There's also plenty of choice on the east coast of the North Island, as well as Lake Taupo (NI) and Fox Glacier (SI).
How much do you value specialist local knowledge about a destination that you are travelling to?
It can be the difference between a good trip and a great trip.
How do you think this year's World Cup will differ from that in 1987? What should fans expect?
It will be much more commercial, many more spectators making the journey from Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. With the recent earthquake in Christchurch, I feel the international rugby community will embrace the efforts that the host nation have made, and there will be a very strong bond of fellowship.
Rugby has changed drastically over the past twenty-four years; how is it different now?
In 1987, the game was amateur and the All Blacks were definitely an unknown quantity. They had lost their hold on the Bledisloe Cup as well as being well beaten by France in Nantes in '86. The team had also been split by the rebel tour to South Africa, which also divided public opinion. What's more, the average age of the team was 24!
Now the game is professional. South Africa and Australia are frequent visitors to NZ and know how to win there. Events such as the Autumn Test schedule in the Northern Hemisphere means there is a wealth of knowledge about all of the leading squads.
The All Blacks have had great opportunities to claim their second World Cup victory, especially in 1995 and 2007. There will be very high expectations on all of the young men who don the All Black jersey, but they wouldn't want it any other way!
Who's your pick to win this year's World Cup? And your outside bet?
Well it's New Zealand again - although I've said that every time since '87! I have it on good authority that Japan could be worth a bet, but not until 2019. After Ireland's display against England in March, they demonstrated that they have everything required - except consistency - but if they can get through their group and put three top quality performances together, they could be worth a shout!
For more information on the 2011 Rugby World Cup, along with a comprehensive guide to everything New Zealand has to offer, please visit [http://www.MyDestination.com/NewZealand]http://www.MyDestination.com/NewZealand.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?The-Anglo-All-Black&id=6423277] The Anglo All Black
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
A Visit From an Old Rugby Friend
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Alan_Marsden]Alan Marsden
Looking through my wardrobe, I discovered a brown paper parcel tied up with string (If, like me you could not guess its contents, the fact that it was wrapped in brown paper and tied with string should give you a hint as to its age) knowing that brown paper and string disappeared from earth along with the dinosaurs who knew how to wrap a parcel, sometime in the very early 60s.
Intrigued by the parcel, and admiring the craftsmanship of every folded corner and carefully tied knot and twist of the yellowing string, I proceeded to untie the string wrapping it around my fingers and placing it carefully to one side, recalling my gran doing the same thing, my father on the other hand would put the string in his pocket, he always carries a piece of string in his pocket, even to this day, (he celebrated his 90th birthday in January.)
Prompts the question; how long is a piece of string?
Answer: 90 years long.
On opening the parcel I was greeted by a very old friend who had stuck to me through thick and thin, mud and rain, snow and ice, now showing the same traces of age as myself, going a little thinner, faded, and now having as many creases as surface area would allow.
My old rugby shirt, preserved in time, back to join me once more, or would it? The passage of Time, Food and Beer, on both the shirt and myself was more than obvious. Would we still fit together skin to skin? there was only one way to find out. Stopping for a moment to consider, as one does when an old school friend tries to contact you on Friends Reunited pondering whether it is best to forget the idea of getting in touch and just remember things as they were so as to avoid any embarrassment or disappointment.
There was only one solution to this question, off came my top, standing ceremoniously, in ritualistic fashion with the red and white hooped shirt spread across the bed in front of me, no 5 staring back at me, waiting to be transformed from this flat shapeless form into the fine physique it once enjoyed, gripping the bottom of the shirt with my thumbs tucked inside I proceeded to gather the shirt into a ring to slip over my head, once inside,eyes closed, the shirt transformed into a time machine, whisking me back to the changing room, at the bottom of that muddy lane, the freezing cold floor and showers the mixture of aromas, winter greens liniment, dubbing, wet socks, sweat, smoke coming from the open fire in the bar area of the club.
Opening my eyes I now pulled the shirt over my head, Relief at least that still fitted, Now to maneuver my arms into the sleeves (did I mention it was an old shirt) being careful not to put too much strain on this old-timers already stretched seams, sliding my arms through gently until my hands popped out of the cuffs, relief they still fitted, gripping the bottom of the shirt which was still in a rucked up state across my chest I decided to go for it and pulled with all my might to bring the bottom of the shirt to its rightful resting place, feeling proud that at least it was on and now had form, it felt great, or was I looking at it with my time machine vision, turning to the mirror, for that "mirror, mirror" on the wall moment we all like to take part in, I saw before me not a transformation, but more of a shape-shift, what was once a red and white hooped rugby shirt now resembled a barbers pole, the shirt had developed what can only be described as a beer belly, taking one last look and appraisal of the still proud shirt, I decided that the distorted shape was the result of being enclosed in the brown paper for all those years and too much tension applied to the knots in the string, after all it never looked like that when I last wore it 42 years ago!
The origins of the rugby shirt or jersey as it was Known then, date back to 1839 At Rugby School, the School House team of 1839 was the first side to adopt a uniform. All their players wore red velvet caps during a match that Queen Adelaide, is thought to have watched.
These velvet caps, together with white trousers and jerseys, became accepted for players 'following up' although each wore his own favorite colors and carried a personal motto on his shirt (equivalent to today's Tee-shirt slogan). I bet it wasn't "rugby players do it with odd shaped balls"
With the fast approaching Rugby World cup my wardrobe will be seeing a new addition, after a visit to the rugby Store, my old friend will nonetheless have the honour of watching the games with me just hanging around together, unless he can get back in shape in time?
How old is your Rugby Shirt? http://planetrugby.yolasite.com
Having avoided serious injury I have been privileged to be able to play the game since the age of 11 until my last game at the age of 48 and proud to boast that I never hung up my boots! To tell the truth I didn't get the chance. My faithful old dog ate them all that was left were the soles and studs, a fitting end to a good pair of boots, and no ill effects to the dog.
Since then I have been following rugby at all levels, my love for the game has never faltered.
I look forward to the coming World Cup in New Zealand and the return of the Webb Ellis Cup, back to its rightful home once more. http://www.planetrugby.yolasite.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Visit-From-an-Old-Rugby-Friend&id=6416427] A Visit From an Old Rugby Friend
Looking through my wardrobe, I discovered a brown paper parcel tied up with string (If, like me you could not guess its contents, the fact that it was wrapped in brown paper and tied with string should give you a hint as to its age) knowing that brown paper and string disappeared from earth along with the dinosaurs who knew how to wrap a parcel, sometime in the very early 60s.
Intrigued by the parcel, and admiring the craftsmanship of every folded corner and carefully tied knot and twist of the yellowing string, I proceeded to untie the string wrapping it around my fingers and placing it carefully to one side, recalling my gran doing the same thing, my father on the other hand would put the string in his pocket, he always carries a piece of string in his pocket, even to this day, (he celebrated his 90th birthday in January.)
Prompts the question; how long is a piece of string?
Answer: 90 years long.
On opening the parcel I was greeted by a very old friend who had stuck to me through thick and thin, mud and rain, snow and ice, now showing the same traces of age as myself, going a little thinner, faded, and now having as many creases as surface area would allow.
My old rugby shirt, preserved in time, back to join me once more, or would it? The passage of Time, Food and Beer, on both the shirt and myself was more than obvious. Would we still fit together skin to skin? there was only one way to find out. Stopping for a moment to consider, as one does when an old school friend tries to contact you on Friends Reunited pondering whether it is best to forget the idea of getting in touch and just remember things as they were so as to avoid any embarrassment or disappointment.
There was only one solution to this question, off came my top, standing ceremoniously, in ritualistic fashion with the red and white hooped shirt spread across the bed in front of me, no 5 staring back at me, waiting to be transformed from this flat shapeless form into the fine physique it once enjoyed, gripping the bottom of the shirt with my thumbs tucked inside I proceeded to gather the shirt into a ring to slip over my head, once inside,eyes closed, the shirt transformed into a time machine, whisking me back to the changing room, at the bottom of that muddy lane, the freezing cold floor and showers the mixture of aromas, winter greens liniment, dubbing, wet socks, sweat, smoke coming from the open fire in the bar area of the club.
Opening my eyes I now pulled the shirt over my head, Relief at least that still fitted, Now to maneuver my arms into the sleeves (did I mention it was an old shirt) being careful not to put too much strain on this old-timers already stretched seams, sliding my arms through gently until my hands popped out of the cuffs, relief they still fitted, gripping the bottom of the shirt which was still in a rucked up state across my chest I decided to go for it and pulled with all my might to bring the bottom of the shirt to its rightful resting place, feeling proud that at least it was on and now had form, it felt great, or was I looking at it with my time machine vision, turning to the mirror, for that "mirror, mirror" on the wall moment we all like to take part in, I saw before me not a transformation, but more of a shape-shift, what was once a red and white hooped rugby shirt now resembled a barbers pole, the shirt had developed what can only be described as a beer belly, taking one last look and appraisal of the still proud shirt, I decided that the distorted shape was the result of being enclosed in the brown paper for all those years and too much tension applied to the knots in the string, after all it never looked like that when I last wore it 42 years ago!
The origins of the rugby shirt or jersey as it was Known then, date back to 1839 At Rugby School, the School House team of 1839 was the first side to adopt a uniform. All their players wore red velvet caps during a match that Queen Adelaide, is thought to have watched.
These velvet caps, together with white trousers and jerseys, became accepted for players 'following up' although each wore his own favorite colors and carried a personal motto on his shirt (equivalent to today's Tee-shirt slogan). I bet it wasn't "rugby players do it with odd shaped balls"
With the fast approaching Rugby World cup my wardrobe will be seeing a new addition, after a visit to the rugby Store, my old friend will nonetheless have the honour of watching the games with me just hanging around together, unless he can get back in shape in time?
How old is your Rugby Shirt? http://planetrugby.yolasite.com
Having avoided serious injury I have been privileged to be able to play the game since the age of 11 until my last game at the age of 48 and proud to boast that I never hung up my boots! To tell the truth I didn't get the chance. My faithful old dog ate them all that was left were the soles and studs, a fitting end to a good pair of boots, and no ill effects to the dog.
Since then I have been following rugby at all levels, my love for the game has never faltered.
I look forward to the coming World Cup in New Zealand and the return of the Webb Ellis Cup, back to its rightful home once more. http://www.planetrugby.yolasite.com
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Visit-From-an-Old-Rugby-Friend&id=6416427] A Visit From an Old Rugby Friend
Monday, January 2, 2012
North Island Rugby World Cup Destinations In NZ
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Bill_Sedgwick]Bill Sedgwick
If you're heading to the Rugby World Cup in 2011, there are a lot of things to consider - accommodation, which games to attend and where and you'll also need to consider transport. There are 13 different cities in New Zealand where the games will be played, of which eight are in the North Island. Having a car hire for your time in NZ makes it easy to get around and ensure you see all the games you want to see.
If you're considering booking a car hire for your time in NZ, you need to know where to go. Here are the cities in the North Island that are hosting Rugby World Cup 2011 games:
Whangarei: This city is located about 160 km north of Auckland. The first game here will be on September 14th, between Tonga and Canada. That will be followed by a game on September 21st, which will feature Tonga vs. Japan.
Auckland: A 2 hour drive from Whangarei, Auckland is home to many Rugby World Cup games for the 2011 season. September 17th will have Australia vs. Ireland, which is followed by New Zealand vs. France on the 24th and Fiji vs. Samoa on the 25th. Then, on October 1 England will play Scotland at the Eden Park field. Quarterfinals 2 and 4, as well as the Semi-finals and Finals will all be played here, as well.
Hamilton: A little under two hours drive south is the third host city of Hamilton. September 16th will feature New Zealand vs. Japan, followed by Wales vs. Samoa on September 18th. Finally, Wales will play Fiji on October 2nd.
Rotorua: This city is about 1 � hours from Hamilton by car, and is located in the middle of the North Island, central to many other game locations. It's hosting the Fiji vs. Namibia game which will be played September 10th, followed by Samoa vs. Namibia on September 14th, and finally Ireland vs. Russia on September 25th.
New Plymouth: 4 � hours south of Auckland (or approximately 4 hours from Rotorua) on the West coast this rugby mad province is hosting three games. Ireland vs. USA, Russia vs. USA, and Wales vs. Namibia. Games will be played on September 11th, 15th, and 26th, respectively.
Napier: Almost 3 hours from Rotorua to the Southeast, Napier will be home to France vs. Canada on the 18th and Canada vs. Japan on the 27th of September.
Palmerston North: Drive 2 hours south of Napier to find Georgia vs. Romania on the 28th September and Argentina vs. Georgia on October 2nd.
Wellington: The final destination for the North Island games is 2 hours south of Palmerston North. Games played here will include: South Africa vs. Wales, South Africa vs. Fiji, Australia vs. USA, Argentina vs. Scotland, France vs. Tonga, New Zealand vs. Canada, and the Quarterfinals Games 1 and 3.
Kiwi Direct Car Rentals is a family owned and operated business with many years of experience and knowledge.
We offer free pickup and drop off to Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch Airports (during business hours) a small fee will apply out of hours.
Our [http://www.rentalcarhire.co.nz/]NZ rental car network enables you to pick up and drop off in other locations; we have other affiliated rental car firms which are located throughout New Zealand.
Book your [http://www.rentalcarhire.co.nz/]car hire in NZ with us today for the 2011 Rugby World Cup games.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?North-Island-Rugby-World-Cup-Destinations-In-NZ&id=6369707] North Island Rugby World Cup Destinations In NZ
If you're heading to the Rugby World Cup in 2011, there are a lot of things to consider - accommodation, which games to attend and where and you'll also need to consider transport. There are 13 different cities in New Zealand where the games will be played, of which eight are in the North Island. Having a car hire for your time in NZ makes it easy to get around and ensure you see all the games you want to see.
If you're considering booking a car hire for your time in NZ, you need to know where to go. Here are the cities in the North Island that are hosting Rugby World Cup 2011 games:
Whangarei: This city is located about 160 km north of Auckland. The first game here will be on September 14th, between Tonga and Canada. That will be followed by a game on September 21st, which will feature Tonga vs. Japan.
Auckland: A 2 hour drive from Whangarei, Auckland is home to many Rugby World Cup games for the 2011 season. September 17th will have Australia vs. Ireland, which is followed by New Zealand vs. France on the 24th and Fiji vs. Samoa on the 25th. Then, on October 1 England will play Scotland at the Eden Park field. Quarterfinals 2 and 4, as well as the Semi-finals and Finals will all be played here, as well.
Hamilton: A little under two hours drive south is the third host city of Hamilton. September 16th will feature New Zealand vs. Japan, followed by Wales vs. Samoa on September 18th. Finally, Wales will play Fiji on October 2nd.
Rotorua: This city is about 1 � hours from Hamilton by car, and is located in the middle of the North Island, central to many other game locations. It's hosting the Fiji vs. Namibia game which will be played September 10th, followed by Samoa vs. Namibia on September 14th, and finally Ireland vs. Russia on September 25th.
New Plymouth: 4 � hours south of Auckland (or approximately 4 hours from Rotorua) on the West coast this rugby mad province is hosting three games. Ireland vs. USA, Russia vs. USA, and Wales vs. Namibia. Games will be played on September 11th, 15th, and 26th, respectively.
Napier: Almost 3 hours from Rotorua to the Southeast, Napier will be home to France vs. Canada on the 18th and Canada vs. Japan on the 27th of September.
Palmerston North: Drive 2 hours south of Napier to find Georgia vs. Romania on the 28th September and Argentina vs. Georgia on October 2nd.
Wellington: The final destination for the North Island games is 2 hours south of Palmerston North. Games played here will include: South Africa vs. Wales, South Africa vs. Fiji, Australia vs. USA, Argentina vs. Scotland, France vs. Tonga, New Zealand vs. Canada, and the Quarterfinals Games 1 and 3.
Kiwi Direct Car Rentals is a family owned and operated business with many years of experience and knowledge.
We offer free pickup and drop off to Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch Airports (during business hours) a small fee will apply out of hours.
Our [http://www.rentalcarhire.co.nz/]NZ rental car network enables you to pick up and drop off in other locations; we have other affiliated rental car firms which are located throughout New Zealand.
Book your [http://www.rentalcarhire.co.nz/]car hire in NZ with us today for the 2011 Rugby World Cup games.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?North-Island-Rugby-World-Cup-Destinations-In-NZ&id=6369707] North Island Rugby World Cup Destinations In NZ
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