The Brisbane Bulldogs, a tug of war team, conduct their weekly training sessions on Sunday mornings in Brisbane's northern suburbs. Coach Graham Egan emphasizes technique and physical conditioning, stating that effective participation requires specific steps, controlled breathing, appropriate body height, and the utilization of body weight. Egan also notes the importance of fitness as a foundational element for success in the sport.
The team, which has been active for ten years, trains consistently to maintain its competitive edge. According to Egan, the team's performance has significantly improved over the decade, evolving from an initial low skill level to consistently ranking as a top team in Australia for the past several years.
Origins and Cultural Significance
The training location, behind a Sikh temple, reflects the sport's historical and cultural roots in Asia. Club president Ranjeet Singh explains that tug of war is an ancient practice, dating back thousands of years and holding significant cultural importance in various parts of India. Distinct techniques are employed across different regions; for example, the South Indian state of Kerala features tug of war as part of its annual Onam festival, while North India utilizes a different style of play.
Singh's personal involvement began during his schooling in India. His first participation in Australia occurred at the 2016 Australian Sikh Games in Brisbane, after which he commenced training with Graham Egan in Taigum.
Team Dynamics and Physical Demands
Tug of war is a team sport where each member contributes significantly, typically exerting a pull force equivalent to approximately 100 kilograms. The collective effort is crucial, as the performance of the entire team is interdependent on each individual's sustained effort. Egan, who has over 50 years of experience in the sport, highlights its demanding nature. Competitions, such as the Australian Championships, can involve more than 20 pulls within a single day. This necessitates not only strength but also considerable stamina, endurance, and efficient recovery strategies to maintain consistent performance throughout the event.
Advocacy for Olympic Re-inclusion
Tug of war was an official event in the early modern Olympic Games, making appearances from 1900 to its final inclusion in 1920. More than a century later, some proponents of the sport are advocating for its re-inclusion, particularly in anticipation of Australia hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Brisbane in 2032. Ranjeet Singh states that the sport fosters community engagement and demands strategic thinking, hard work, and stamina, qualities comparable to those required in other competitive sports.