There are many ways to assess the success of a national rugby program, such as participation numbers, the number of qualified coaches, the performance of professional teams, or the ability to fill one’s stadium. The clearest measure of success lies in the results of a union’s national team, as the true reflection of the systems and structures each union has put in place. Key elements such as robust player development pathways, meaningful game time, high-quality coaching, and a strong team culture are essential to building a foundation that supports long-term success. Without these, a union’s flagship team is likely to…