As the powerhouses of the rugby world continue to battle over the Web Ellis trophy in the knockout stages of the World Cup, some of the sport's less-fancied teams are making their way home after a valiant, if unsuccessful, fight in the group stages.
Since the tournament began in 1987, only four nations have walked away as world champions: New Zealand, South Africa, Australia and England.
Canada's Canucks, Georgia's Lelos or the U.S. Eagles were never the bookmakers' favorites to win the Cup and for obvious reasons. These emerging nations do not compete anywhere near as regularly as the elite sides and, along with tactical and experience deficiencies, face a daunting challenge to emerge from the bruising challenge of the pool matches in the world's most prestigious event.
But these teams do have heart and motivation and -- perhaps most of all -- they have the joy and passion of national pride. Whether or not they walk away with wins, it's being there, representing their nations and improving the standard of rugby within their countries, that matters most for them.
"When that flag is waving and the anthem plays before the game, if that doesn't get you going, you need to see a cardiologist," former Eagles player and coach Jack Clark told CNN. "It's just one of those moments where you feel not only a lot of responsibility, but you feel really privileged to have that responsibility."
Lelos making strides
Georgia did not make an appearance in the Rugby World Cup until 2003, but the they became an overnight sensation during that year's tournament with their passionate play, despite not actually winning a match.
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