Ahead of this year’s Six Nations tournament, we caught up with Andrew Paterson, Programme Leader for UCFB’s BA (Hons) Football Business & Marketing programme and former Welsh Rugby player. With 53 caps for his country, Andrew reflects on his glistening career and gives his verdict on this year’s tournament.
Some of us are old enough to remember watching and playing in the Five Nations, now the Six Nations tournament. Apart from the Junior World Cups, it is the most demanding tournament I've ever played in.
The speed, power and pace were a huge step up from playing county rugby; I was on the verge of sponsorship deals when I succumbed to knee injuries. The power of sponsorship back in 2008/09 wasn't as huge as it is now, but it was something that was a way to judge how good you were.
The days I played were for pride in the shirt, to see some crowds and to just basically get away with murder, there was no TMO back then...I dread to think how many red cards I would have had if there was! The game has changed from the days I played. Faster second rows, fitter props and less breakdowns. Fly-half and wingers still get the glory...some things never change.
The contracts back then were never central, and we very much belonged to the county or the school/college we played for. This and the huge development in the Welsh Rugby Union for the central contracts for the women's game is a huge step forward and is something that should have happened years ago.
Moving onto this year’s Six Nations, it will undoubtedly be close. England are always very good (it’s difficult for a Welshman to admit this!); Ireland are incredibly talented in the back, but the front row will let them down in my opinion.
Wales are full if injuries. Navidi and Alun Wyn are huge misses, but three home games gives us a shout. France are, I believe, the next world champions, but it always depends on which team actually turns up. Scotland are a work in progress, and look like a decent side. I’m not entirely sure what to make of them. It promises to be an interesting tournament for them.
Ultimately, it is a unique tournament that has brilliant players and thankfully home crowds. Looking forward to a festival of rugby. #CymruAmByth