THIS is what Rugby’s unique new attraction looks like – and organisers hope it will bring in sport fans from around the world.
A week ahead of its official opening, The Observer was invited to the World Rugby Hall of Fame – in its new home at Rugby Gallery, Museum and Library – for a sneak preview.
Inside is a sleek, futuristic and immersive series of displays, exhibitions and interactive screens – the centrepiece being the sport governing body’s first physical representation of the moments and personalities that have defined rugby.
The history and values of the game are also explored, and memorabilia donated from around the globe helps to flesh out the story of a game which began in Rugby in 1823 and is now played by 8million people in 121 countries.
There is an interactive, inclusive aspect to almost everything on display, which organisers hope will give everyone the chance to get involved.
First established in 2006, the Hall of Fame has inducted 120 greats including England World Cup-winning coach Sir Clive Woodward and his captain Martin Johnson, Ireland’s Keith Wood, Scotland’s Gavin Hastings, Wales’ Gareth Edwards, and former South Africa president Nelson Mandela.
The very first inductees were William Webb Ellis, the schoolboy credited with inventing the game, and Rugby School.
The Hall of Fame will open to the public for the first time on Friday November 18 and will then be open seven days a week: 10am-5pm, Monday to Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday. It will be closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.
Visit www.worldrugby.org/halloffame for more information.
