There is a network of people, communities and sporting groups that make up the fabric of what we collectively call rural Australia.

If you come across a farmer chances are you will be able to strike up a conversation about sport.

It could possibly be any of the footy codes or maybe something else.

And if the characters in The Rural’s Paddock to the Field feature are to be a guide, people in the bush are just as passionate about their sporting team as any other topic.

For clubs to be successful it is not just about first grade players. 

Yes these elite sports people are important but what about the person who looks after the grounds.

Or how about those who hold positions of office. And kudos goes to anyone who works in the canteen and fires up the barbecue too.

From cutting oranges to share at half time with the juniors through to making sure club jerseys are clean and ready to go all of these roles are important.

However, the role that sport plays in the community is perhaps about connection and camaraderie more than anything else. 

It’s a chance to catch up. Share a joke. Have a conversation. 

It is also an opportunity to keep fit and set some personal goals. Improvements are worth celebrating.

The Paddock to the Field addressed a diverse range of sports and activities.

There were stories about endurance riding, ultra running, moguls snow skiing, mountain bike riding, rugby union and rugby league plus Australian football.

Not all of if these disciplines were team sports. However, everyone who featured in the series talked about the mate-ship and the relationships they had made through their chosen sport.  

So when you hear the car sirens honking and smell the sausages on the barbecue and see the young children with tomato sauce on their faces it truly is time to celebrate country sport.

Related