Search Me

The list below is taken from my Google Analytics report on the top search terms used to reach my blog, since records began in August last year:

As you can see, the most common search was for Gareth Thomas the former Rugby Union player (and Welsh captain) who now plays Rugby League for the Celtic Crusaders. I'd like to think that visits are generated by the quality of my post about the Rugby Football League fining Castleford Tigers for homophobic abuse leveled at Thomas... but I think it has more to do with this picture:

The next search term is the one I'm most pleased with. Other than those who regularly leave comments, or whom you know personally, it can be difficult, even with the aid of various statistics, to know if anyone is that bothered with what you write. Having people search specifically for "oneexwidow blog" is very satisfying!

I used to feature a lot of poetry here, although this has fallen by the wayside a bit recently. Carol Ann Duffy's piece "Warming Her Pearls" seems to be popular - perhaps it is a set poem for pupils studying English...

Must be the Music was Sky's answer to The X-Factor but with less karaoke and preening by the judges and more genuine songwriting and musical talent. I'm looking forward to hearing more of the winner, Emma's Imagination.

The fifth most common search term finds my review of Christopher Nolan's film, Inception. I loved this intelligent take on the Sci-Fi genre.

So that's the top 5 for now... What will it be like in another 15 months time?

Andrew

The RFL's fine by me...

Late last year, former Wales Rugby Union International, Gareth Thomas came out as a gay man. This year, he re-entered the arena of professional sport as a player with the Rugby League side, the Celtic Crusaders.

At the time he came out, many suggested this was a brave thing to do, although some wished that he could have felt able to do so much earlier when he was still playing. Moving back into the macho environment of the 13 man code was certainly a brave move.

It was almost inevitable that references to his sexuality would be made in the stands. Indeed, a certain amount of banter is to be expected.

What shouldn't be tolerated, however, is out and out abuse. Homophobic comments - like racist and sexist sentiments - have no place in any sport. So when such things happen, they should be dealt with.

Such a thing did happen. In his second game - against Castleford Tigers there were some instances of abuse being hurled. Today, the Rugby Football League (RFL) fined the Tigers £40,000 for "unacceptable behaviour, breaching the RFL’s Respect Policy, misconduct by their supporters and of conduct prejudicial to the interests of the sport."

While the case is not yet settled - the Tigers' plan to appeal - this story is noted for the determination of the RFL to take action and take a stand. Such a strong position is to be applauded - and other sporting bodies could learn a lesson when it comes to dealing with such issues.

Andrew