The problem that we don't have the development leagues in Australia is because it's competing with NRL & AFL. NRL owns New South Wales & Queensland & AFL owns the other states, especially Victoria. Rugby is stuck in the middle & really only has a noticeable presence in NSW/Canberra & QLD. It's getting popular in Western Australia In NZ, it's Rugby/Rugby/Rugby & I imagine it's the same in South Africa with the Afrikaans.
I know with NRL their are a few sons of former greats coming through right now. Not so sure about Rugby, because I know before it went professional some of the best players went to NRL because it paid better. I think that it helps in their development because their born into Rugby & get the basic skills of their talented parents.
I think the SH is best, because I believe the Polynesians have the best pool for Rugby talent. Just look at the All-Blacks! Polynesians are starting to make a big impact in NRL & their are a noticeable amounts of American Samoans in the NFL. I don't have the numbers but an American Samoan is the most likely race to play in the NFL (based on proportions). Also, having top-tier competition down here makes everyone better, as well as being an icon of the countries.
I know with NRL their are a few sons of former greats coming through right now. Not so sure about Rugby, because I know before it went professional some of the best players went to NRL because it paid better. I think that it helps in their development because their born into Rugby & get the basic skills of their talented parents.
I think the SH is best, because I believe the Polynesians have the best pool for Rugby talent. Just look at the All-Blacks! Polynesians are starting to make a big impact in NRL & their are a noticeable amounts of American Samoans in the NFL. I don't have the numbers but an American Samoan is the most likely race to play in the NFL (based on proportions). Also, having top-tier competition down here makes everyone better, as well as being an icon of the countries.
