£65 a ticket is a bit steep I agree to take kids along to the international rugby matches – unless, of course, they are ardent fans in which case it’s a special treat. There’s nothing quite like the singing of “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” of a 70,000 strong crowd to warm your heart – no matter how cold the weather. On Saturday, I was delighted to be at the England vs South Africa match – and whilst we all like victory, even when your team loses you’ve still had a great day out. It’s a couple of hours of pure joy – especially when you see some cracking rugby and even though Toby Flood had to leave early due to an injury.
And the RFU organisers are always keen to point out some pretty important values – team work, respect, enjoyment, discipline and sportsmanship. Even when the other side score a terrific try, we are not allowed to boo – we have to show polite appreciation of a game well played. It’s good for kids to see such values in action (even if the crowd sometimes don’t always adhere – then to be reminded of by gently scolding announcements on the big screen). Occasionally, a bit of a punch up breaks out on the pitch – but it’s quickly sorted out and they usually shake hands at the end – all very grown up. And when England scores a try or a penalty you can be sure that the kids will be jumping up and down doing the fabulous victory dance. It’s a fantastic atmosphere and everyone is welcome – hardened rugger fans and newby visitors.
The previous weekend I had taken some young friends (two of whom had never been to Twickenham before) to the more reasonably priced England vs Samoa match. From the moment we were in the stadium they were captivated. At first it was with the young performer attached at an Investec balloon who did an aerial dance at death defying heights. Then there was the pomp and ceremony of the national anthems, the military moving of the national flags and that awe-inspiring haka (war dance) performed while the England crowds tried to out-psyche the other side with more singing.
I admit that the food and beverage vendors take the micky at these events, but some hot chips and cold Coke (or cold cider or beer for the adults) makes the event that much more special. My lot were delighted when the crowd managed to maintain a Mexican wave for five circuits of the massive stadium.
My daughter loves to see me shout and cheer at the rugby – she says she has more fun watching my reaction to the game than the game itself. For those who don’t get to international matches very often, it’s fantastic watching all the good natured fans in their various outfits – complete with face paint and silly hats.
Yes, you have to wrap up really warm against the cold. Yes, you have to battle through the crowds. Yes, the transport and parking can be a bit of a pain. But rugby’s such a great part of our heritage you’ve got to do it at least once. And although the big internationals are all done now (aaahhhh), there is a chance for you to take the kids on a family day out without breaking the bank.
The day after Boxing Day – Monday 27th December – you can go along to Twickenham to see Harlequins (the local club) play London Irish (the club my son used to play for) for just £5 for kids and £10 for adults. I took a group along last year and the kids loved it – particularly as there was kestrel flying before the match and an assortment of X Factor finalists performing during the pre-match celebrations. And after a couple of days cooped up in the house eating too much food and watching too much tele, it’s a fabulous way to get some fresh air into those lungs as you bellow for the team of your choice.
