Do you also have a problem with the weird terms they use down-under, and which people over here seem to eager to lap up, too?

Michael.

The Aussie commentators are funny with it.

Yanks just shout because they think it makes it more exciting.

It has to be a positive if a country the size of the US are taking a greater interest. It was a tongue in cheek post. Don't take life too seriously fellas.

True but if the Americans are going to take to it they need their own terminology.
Funnily enough I remember hearing something on five live not too long ago about how much everyday language we take from american sports. I cant remember examples now but some of the things you use in everyday life, was weird.

A lot of people use it in business terminoligy. 'Step up to the plate', 'Ball park figure', 'Touch base' etc etc. I have also noticed, and commented on here, about how many more people say awesome than before. Even I have been guilty of this from time to time.

It does wind me up but if they want to talk like that it's up to them.

It will be interesting to see how the americans go about this. I just hope they keep it real rugby league and leave the frills because that's when americans spoil sports for me.

I wonder if a TV deal is in place?

word is they've been in talks with NBC....how true that is however is doubtful.


ESPN would be the perfect channel for them though...and ESPN heads the ABC sports division which is one of the major networks in the US..so if they look small,and more realistic, by getting NRLUS of either ESPN2 or ESPN enitally and then look to getting the play offs & grand final broadcast/simulcast on ESPN on ABC, a network channel...then that would be huge..

Wow, where have you been? Good to see you back anyway

from rules:

6 downs to score or turn over ball

80 minutes - 4 x 20 min quarters

not far from regular rules (such a simple game). i can see those breaks being phased out over time.

When explaining the game to Americans I always explain the tackles as basically being 6-and-goal when you gain possession. It makes sense of them to describe the summary of the rules in a way people will instantly understand.

Do not really have a problem with the idea of having quarters either. We do the same when the game is played in hot weather anyway. Something they will likely be doing as they will be playing it during summer with teams almost certainly in Florida and on the east coast.

Michael.