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Get Your Kit On, Nude Rugby Sparks Debate

As it is in Britain, in New Zealand rugby is an essential part of life. The All Blacks are one of the world's most formidable and feared rugby teams. But have you heard of the Nude Blacks? The Nude Blacks are making their name across the world for different reasons – they play minus their rugby kit – completely starkers.

The naked rugby team hit the headlines after taking on the Welsh Leeks in an international match organised by Otago University in New Zealand. Fortunately, the weather was said to be fine as the men stripped off although the game's organiser of the annual event told the Otago Daily Times: "We prefer Antarctic southerlies and about 3 degrees just to challenge the players a bit."

Hundreds of people turn up to watch the annual nude rugby match which puts a whole new take on the tradition of streaking. Apparently the highlight at last year's match was the appearance of a clothed streaker! But the idea of playing rugby in the nude seems a little reckless to many. Fans running naked on a football, rugby or even tennis pitch is seen as a fun, if crazy, prank. Streaking in fact has a long tradition in sport. In 1996, Melissa Johnson became the first female streaker at Wimbledon, interrupting the otherwise civilised sport.

But the rising trend of ‘naked sports' is raising a few eyebrows. Wearing rugby kit isn't just about protecting the modesty of the players (and the fans), sportswear is there to help protect and optimise performance. What's more, team kits are all about letting the fans know who's who – if everyone on the field is naked – how do you recognise who to support or boo?

In ancient Sparta, performing naked was an integral way to show off athleticism. But nudity became less acceptable over time – and kits, outfits or uniforms became the norm. But the real reason why a contact sport like rugby is not played in the buff is protection – guards, protective gear and clothes all help keep rugby players protected in what is arguably one of the roughest and toughest games around.

Looking for rugby kit? Terminator Clothing Ltd work with rugby clubs across the UK to provide rugby team kits offering a full service from consultation, design and delivery of rugby team kits.

 

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