ABs aren't just about the money

The All Blacks are part of the feel-good morale of our country, not just the money.

SO THE All Blacks will play in United States, against the US Eagles, before their European tour.

I first heard it on the radio yesterday morning, and I was amused to hear the radio announcer's rather acid closing line that naturally stadium seat revenue had nothing to do with it. He was making reference to the fact the All Blacks don't do any tours in the Pacific Islands.

The US Eagles might be ranked 18th in the world, and it's certainly not the number one sport in the US, but it is undeniably growing, and playing at Chicago's Soldier Field will likely get a lot of interest - and bottoms on seats. It's not the biggest NFL field, but 61,000 seats is healthy enough.

It's not a new argument, asking why the All Black don't play in the Pacific Islands against Samoa (ranked 8th) or Fiji (ranked 11th), but do play Japan (ranked 13th) in Tokyo. In fact, it's been 29 years since the All Blacks toured in one of those islands.

Of course, the answer is obvious: revenue.

Last year, rugby union chief executive Steve Tew said he couldn't see how tests in the island would work in the short term. "Very hard to fit in, and very hard to make affordable," he told media.

So basically, are we saying that to play an All Black match in a Pacific Island is practically an act of charity? Considering how badly some of those islands have suffered in cyclones in the past few years, it would be a pretty nice gesture.

The NZRU would be the first to say the All Blacks' charitable input is there, notably with their support of charities such as KidsCan.

But it really feels like they watch the money far too much. I know seat count and tickets are a vital part of revenue, even more so in the days when spectator counts can be down, thanks to better televised coverage, but also due to the recession. I can't blame NZRU for being mindful of money. But considering we ransack the islands for a lot of our heavy-duty talent, it would be appropriate to start giving back.

The All Blacks are part of the feel-good morale of our country, not just the money. Imagine the boost they could give in the islands - especially if their own sons are represented.