The intense public interest and blanket coverage of the nine-week trial gave a glimpse behind the curtains of the private lives of the rugby players on trial. One of the conclusions drawn from the case was that it reflected the deep-rooted culture of misogyny within rugby in general. ‘Courage’ and ‘bravery’ are two of the most frequently used words in the testosterone-loaded vernacular of rugby commentary. In the days after the Grand Slam, much praise was lavished on Irish rugby for its emphasis on the welfare and development of its players. That is the time to make them understand the responsibility that comes with the exalted status of being a ‘rugby star’.

Source: The Irish Times March 31, 2018 08:00 UTC