Fighting for every inch / Photo: Jackie Finlan
In two years, The Rugby Breakdown (TRB) has produced more than 1,200 articles that feature girls’ and women’s rugby in the U.S. All of the content is available for free – that is, information isn’t shielded behind a paywall – but there is certainly a cost in operating a news site full-time. The Rugby Breakdown needs the patronage of its readers to stay afloat financially and continue providing a valuable service.
Close to 200,000 readers have visited the site and 45% have returned for more original reportage – there is certainly an audience for women’s rugby news. Now, imagine if every one of those returning visitors contributed $1. That’s all it would take and TRB would be set for years.
That financial support translates into time. If TRB doesn’t have to chase advertisers, sponsors and freelance projects, then that effort is re-funneled into women’s rugby coverage. Additionally, TRB could reinvest in the community supporting it – hire rugby photographers and rugby writers, for example – and prop up the structures highlighting our great sport.
Currently, 14 readers have committed to a monthly patronage, and TRB is wholly grateful. But this number needs to grow if it’s going to be a base for business. Remember, it doesn’t take an obscene contribution to be helpful; it just takes everyone contributing.
I’ll watch the numbers during the next three months – which comprise the peak readership season – and keep everyone updated on the outlook beyond May 2018. Please consider keeping The Rugby Breakdown in operation. Support starts at $1/month.
For more information on becoming a patron and/or background information on The Rugby Breakdown, read more.