When The Rugby Breakdown posted its first article on January 13, 2016, one question loomed: Is there an appetite for women’s rugby news in the U.S.? Hundreds of interviews, articles, edits and photos later, we’re confident that there is indeed a hunger to connect, educate and empower those driving the women’s game in the U.S. It’s an encouraging sentiment, one that we’ll work to strengthen in the New Year.
Some stats after almost a year in business:
– More than 120,000 visitors to the site
– More than 600 *original* articles written
– More than 3,500 Facebook fans (4,600+ incl Twitter & Instagram)
Most popular articles:
2. DI National Championship Canceled
SUPPORT SHOUTOUT
The Rugby Breakdown is a full-time operation, and Year One has hinged on the support of the rugby community – from advertisers like Life University and Lindenwood University; to partners Canterbury North America and Atavus; to personal and reoccurring donations; to the free usage of materials from photographers like Colleen McCloskey, Carisa Weaver, JJ Fagan, and many, many more. Freelance projects from Goff Rugby Report (New Zealand v Ireland program) and USA Rugby (WPL coverage) have also been crucial to staying in business.
MVP: Special thanks to Niko R. for liking and reading every single article in 2016 – time to upgrade to rugby correspondent? More importantly, thank you for the insatiable optimism.
2017 PLANS
This year will focus on building a financially stable outfit that will enable more diverse, farther-reaching coverage, including:
– Build more partnerships (video, photography, foundations) to expand offerings and reach
– Foster cast of guest writers and editorial interns
– Travel to more events across the country for better coverage
– Developing more resources like this, all in the name of connecting women’s rugby supporters together
CROWD SOURCING
Have suggestions on what you (don’t) want to read/see on The Rugby Breakdown going forward? Send an e-mail to editor@therugbybreakdown.com – we appreciated the feedback!
Happy New Year! Happy Rugby!