In a scathing review, iconic England coach Sir Clive Woodward didn’t hold back on his assessment of the Netflix docuseries ‘Six Nations: Full Contact.’
RUCK’s 2024 Guinness Six Nations content powered by ISUZU.
From the makers of the wildly popular ‘Drive to Survive,’ Full Contact chronicles the journeys of players and coaches across various teams, putting a spotlight on notable figures such as Wales’ Louis Rees-Zammit, England’s Owen Farrell and Ellis Genge, Scotland’s Finn Russell, and Ireland’s Johnny Sexton and Andrew Porter.
The series delves into the challenges these athletes face, ranging from mental health battles and imposter syndrome to the sacrifices they make both personally and physically.
Coaches also share insights into the tough decisions they grapple with, including playing against family members and sidelining star players due to off-field issues.
Despite the compelling narrative, the legendary former England boss was far from impressed, delivering a brutally honest critique of ‘Six Nations: Full Contact.’
Woodward began: ‘Growing the game’ is rugby’s go-to phrase right now.
“Six Nations: Full Contact — the Netflix docuseries on last year’s Championship — forms part of doing that. Unfortunately, it left a lot to be desired.
“I was particularly unimpressed with the amount of swearing that was broadcast and I was left totally gobsmacked when in one of the episodes, I heard Italy’s Sebastian Negri use the word ****. Many will roll their eyes at my sensitivity. But what kind of fan is rugby hoping to attract?
“Formula One’s Drive to Survive attracted a new fanbase by opening eyes to the lives of the drivers in and out of the car. But they also celebrated their unimaginable bravery and skill.
“As a former international coach, I’m aware coaches and players use swear words. I did. That said, lots of effing and jeffing doesn’t work over a long period.
“And in the context of trying to bring in new fans to rugby, it was a crazy decision to have swearing broadcast so strongly and heavily. I don’t think it’s a good way to attract children and families to rugby. I wonder also if there was also a missed opportunity to bring the women’s game into the same series.”
PARTNERS LINKS:
- Join RUCK’s Breaking News and Top Stories WhatsApp community
- RUGBY BROUGHT TO YOU BY ISUZU D-MAX
- Secure your seat to avoid the scrum for the 2024 Six Nations with Greene King Sport
- Book your 2024 Six Nations travel with Omio today
SIX HEAVIEST SIX NATIONS RUGBY PLAYERS
This list only includes players featuring in the opening round of the 2024 Six Nations.
6. Dan Cole (England) – 124kg
Renowned for his scrummaging prowess, Cole, at 6’3″, is an anchor for the English front row. His 124kg frame provides stability in the set-piece, and his experience ensures a formidable presence on the pitch, making him a crucial asset for England in the 2024 Six Nations.
5. Andrew Porter (Ireland) – 125kg
he 6’0″ Irish prop, Porter, weighs in at a sturdy 125kg. A dynamic force in the scrum, he combines agility with raw power, making significant contributions in both set-piece battles and open play. Porter’s robust style of play adds resilience to Ireland’s forward pack.