Buying presents can sometimes be a challenge, particularly when it comes to our dads. Yet, when buying gifts for someone who loves rugby, supports a particular team, either national or international and is into sports, there are a few ideas you might want to consider. You can mix and match gifts or choose one special gift. Here are some gift ideas:
Big game tickets
If your dad hasn't yet got a season ticket for his favourite team, that would make a great present if he can make the home games. Alternatively, look for one of the big game tickets, such as for the 2020 six nations fixtures, or if he's going to be in Australia, New Zealand, Argentina or South Africa, get tickets for a Rugby Championship 2020 match.
Rugby apparel
Team colours
Maybe it is time for new apparel in international team colours if he already has all the kit for his local team. Choose either a polo shirt, rugby shirt or hoodie in the blue of Scotland, red of Wales, green of Ireland or white of England.
Watch
If you want a gift that has lasting value, consider gifting your father a watch. This could include the logo of their favourite team, whilst being one of the gifts for dad that are only given by those closest to him. Choose a classic watch or a Garmin watch with a multitude of features he will enjoy, including health monitoring, playing of songs via Bluetooth and much else.
Stadium Tour
Rugby is the only game played at Twickenham Stadium, which makes a tour behind the scenes one of the best gifts you can give to your dad. The tour is led by knowledgeable guides who take a group around select areas of the stadium that spectators do not usually get to see. This includes the England dressing room where you will learn about the match-day preparations and routines of international rugby players; the Royal Box; the players' tunnel; a view of the arena from the top of the stand and the chance to stand pitch-side before ending the tour at the World Rugby Museum with its collection of more than 41,000 objects on display.
Meet the players
If your dad had predicted a new member of the international team, contact the player direct on their social media account and let them know of his successful forecast and ask if they can meet with your dad before a game or at another event. Search out charity events that the team or the individual supports and see if you can introduce your dad to his favourite player.
If you cannot arrange for them to meet, ask for a signed photograph or other rugby paraphernalia, explaining why you want this to happen. When you get the signed photograph, shirt or rugby ball, have this framed before you present it to your dad. An encased rugby ball will look fabulous in his office at home or work, and he will truly appreciate your efforts to get this for him.
Collectable items
Photograph of an historical event
Find a sports collectable that you know he will appreciate. This can include prints or photographs of big events, such as the iconic winning kick by Jonny Wilkinson to win in the World Cup 2003 or a giclée print from Central Saint Martins alumni Nancy and Jasper Allen which features rugby players wearing the flags of the 20 teams that qualified for the 2015 tournament.
Personalised rugby ball
Personalise a hand-stitched rugby ball with your dad's name printed on both sides in a large bold font, which could take centre stage in his home. Instead of his name, add text of your choice. As an England fan, you might want to inscribe “Committed To The Rose”. Choose a full size 5 ball that he can play if he wants.
