As its theme song, the United Rugby Championship (URC) should consider adopting Paul Kelly’s From Little Things Big Things Grow. While Kelly’s beautiful melody is not the pounding anthem that will bring the crowds to their feet, it tells the tale of a small concept that over time grows into a colossus.
In the turbulent years of early professionalism, the Celtic nations realised that if they were to survive, they had to take control of their destiny. The giant English and French domestic competitions were poised to drain the Celtic nations of their talent. So the Celts unified and co-operated. Two words that were almost unheard of in the previous century of their relationship.
When the Scots, Welsh and Irish Unions announced they were forming their own domestic competition, there were far more sceptics than supporters. The first Celtic League competition began 25 years ago in 2001. It was born not of love, but of necessity.
While the introduction of the Italians was a logical step, money speaks all languages and when the South Africans heard the call of the euro they headed north, bringing a powerful brand of competitiveness, aggression and skill that has challenged the European teams and created the unique character of the URC.
