Rugby is a beloved sport that has a rich history in the United States. With the rise of professional rugby leagues, fans are eager to know where they can catch the action live. In this article, we will explore the cities and venues where professional rugby thrives in the United States. From coast to coast, we will delve into the vibrant rugby communities and uncover the top stadiums and fields where the sport is played. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the sport, this article will provide you with all the information you need to plan your next rugby adventure. So, let’s get ready to explore the exciting world of rugby in the United States!
Major Professional Rugby Leagues in the USA
USA Rugby
USA Rugby is the governing body for rugby in the United States, overseeing all levels of the sport from the national teams to collegiate and high school competitions, as well as grassroots development. The organization was founded in 1974 and has since grown to include more than 120,000 members across the country.
National Teams
USA Rugby’s national teams are comprised of the Men’s and Women’s Eagles, who compete in international test matches and tournaments against other national teams. The Eagles have achieved notable success in recent years, including a fourth-place finish at the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Collegiate and High School Competitions
USA Rugby also oversees a robust collegiate and high school rugby program, with more than 300 college teams and 1,200 high school teams competing annually. The organization hosts various tournaments and championships throughout the year, including the College 7s National Championship and the High School National Championship.
Grassroots Development
In addition to its competitive leagues, USA Rugby is committed to promoting the growth and development of rugby at the grassroots level. The organization offers various programs and initiatives aimed at increasing participation and improving the quality of play, such as the Youth Rugby Development Program and the Community Rugby Program. These efforts have helped to foster a thriving rugby community in the United States, with thousands of players and fans across the country.
Major League Rugby (MLR)
Founding Teams
The founding teams of Major League Rugby (MLR) were Austin Elite, Glendale Raptors, Houston SaberCats, New Orleans Gold, San Diego Legion, and Seattle Seawolves. These teams were established in 2018, marking the beginning of professional rugby in the United States.
Current Teams
Currently, there are 12 teams participating in MLR:
- Austin Elite
- Glendale Raptors
- Houston SaberCats
- New Orleans Gold
- San Diego Legion
- Seattle Seawolves
- Toronto Arrows
- Utah Warriors
- New York City Rugby
- Rugby United New York
- Old Glory DC
- LA Giltinis
Stadiums and Locations
The MLR teams compete in various stadiums and locations across the United States. Here are the current stadiums and locations of the MLR teams:
- Austin Elite: BOK Center, Tulsa, Oklahoma (home games)
- Glendale Raptors: Infinity Park, Glendale, Colorado
- Houston SaberCats: Aveva Stadium, Houston, Texas
- New Orleans Gold: Gold Stadium, New Orleans, Louisiana
- San Diego Legion: Torero Stadium, San Diego, California
- Seattle Seawolves: Starfire Stadium, Tukwila, Washington
- Toronto Arrows: York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Utah Warriors: Zions Bank Stadium, Herriman, Utah
- New York City Rugby: MCU Park, Brooklyn, New York
- Rugby United New York: MCU Park, Brooklyn, New York
- Old Glory DC: Segra Field, Leesburg, Virginia
- LA Giltinis: Dignity Health Sports Park, Carson, California
Each team plays its home games in a unique venue, providing fans with distinct experiences and atmospheres.
Other professional leagues and tournaments
In addition to the well-known professional rugby leagues in the United States, there are several other leagues and tournaments that contribute to the growth and development of the sport. These leagues provide opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills and compete at a high level, while also attracting fans and increasing interest in rugby.
Some of the notable professional leagues and tournaments in the United States include:
- Major League Rugby (MLR): Established in 2018, MLR is a professional rugby union league that features 12 teams from across the United States. The league features top-level players from the United States, Canada, and other countries, and aims to promote the growth of rugby in the country.
- USA Rugby National Championships: The USA Rugby National Championships is an annual tournament that features the top rugby union teams from across the United States. The tournament is open to both men’s and women’s teams, and serves as a showcase for the best rugby talent in the country.
- Rugby World Cup Sevens: The Rugby World Cup Sevens is a global rugby sevens tournament that takes place every four years. The United States has a strong presence in the tournament, and has competed in several Rugby World Cup Sevens events.
- Rugby Super Series: The Rugby Super Series is an annual rugby union tournament that features the best teams from around the world. The United States has participated in the tournament several times, and has achieved notable success, including reaching the final in 2016.
These leagues and tournaments, along with the well-known professional rugby leagues in the United States, contribute to the growth and development of rugby in the country. They provide opportunities for athletes to compete at a high level, and help to increase interest in the sport among fans and the general public.
Top Cities for Professional Rugby in the USA
Los Angeles
- LA Giltinis (MLR)
- Founded in 2021
- Franchise based in Los Angeles
- Participates in Major League Rugby (MLR)
- Olympic Park (potential stadium)
- Historic sports venue
- Hosted the 1984 Summer Olympics
- Has been a proposed location for a professional rugby stadium
- Rugby culture and events
- Annual RugbyTown USA Tournament
- LA Rugby Club and other local clubs
- Attracts both local and international rugby enthusiasts
New York City
Rugby United New York (MLR)
Rugby United New York (MLR) is one of the most prominent professional rugby teams in the United States, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The team was founded in 2019 and competes in the Major League Rugby (MLR), which is the top-tier professional rugby league in the United States.
Red Bull Arena (home stadium)
Red Bull Arena is the home stadium of Rugby United New York (MLR). Located in Harrison, New Jersey, the stadium has a seating capacity of 25,000 and is known for its electric atmosphere, making it an ideal venue for professional rugby matches. The stadium has hosted numerous high-profile rugby events, including international matches and MLR games, and is well-equipped to handle the demands of professional rugby.
Potential for expansion
New York City is a prime location for the growth of professional rugby in the United States. With a large and diverse population, a strong sports culture, and a history of success in other professional sports leagues, the potential for expansion in New York City is significant. The city’s support for Rugby United New York (MLR) has been overwhelming, and there is a growing interest in the sport among both players and fans. The city’s infrastructure and resources make it an ideal location for the expansion of professional rugby, and it is likely that we will see more teams and venues emerge in the city in the coming years.
Seattle
Seattle Seawolves (MLR)
The Seattle Seawolves are one of the most successful teams in the Major League Rugby (MLR) competition. Founded in 2018, the team has quickly established itself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of professional rugby. The Seawolves have won the MLR championship twice, in 2018 and 2021, demonstrating their skill and determination on the field.
CenturyLink Field (home stadium)
CenturyLink Field is a multi-purpose stadium located in Seattle, Washington. It is the home stadium of the Seattle Seawolves and has a seating capacity of over 70,000. The stadium is known for its electric atmosphere and has hosted numerous high-profile sporting events, including NFL games and international soccer matches. The Seawolves have a strong home-field advantage, thanks to the passionate and supportive fans who fill the stands at CenturyLink Field.
Strong rugby community
Seattle has a rich rugby history and a strong rugby community. The city is home to numerous rugby clubs and organizations, including the Seattle Saracens, the Seattle RFC, and the Seattle Rugby Sevens. These clubs attract players of all ages and skill levels, contributing to the overall vibrancy of the rugby scene in Seattle. Additionally, the city hosts numerous rugby tournaments and events throughout the year, further showcasing the dedication and enthusiasm of the local rugby community.
Other cities with growing rugby scenes
While the major cities in the United States are well-known for their professional rugby teams, there are also several other cities that are experiencing a surge in rugby popularity. These cities may not yet have a professional team, but they are quickly becoming hotbeds for the sport, thanks to the dedication of local rugby clubs and organizations.
Some of the most notable cities with growing rugby scenes include:
- Seattle, Washington: Home to the Seattle Seawolves of Major League Rugby, Seattle has a thriving rugby community, with multiple clubs and teams at various levels of play.
- Austin, Texas: With the addition of the Austin Herd to Major League Rugby in 2021, rugby has seen a significant rise in popularity in the city. Austin also has a strong collegiate rugby scene, with the University of Texas fielding both men’s and women’s teams.
- Denver, Colorado: The Rocky Mountains may be known for skiing and outdoor sports, but rugby is also gaining traction in Denver. The city is home to the Denver Barbarians, a highly competitive men’s team that competes at the elite level of club rugby.
- Charlotte, North Carolina: The Queen City is quickly becoming a hub for rugby in the Southeast. The Charlotte Rugby Club has both men’s and women’s teams, and the city is also home to several high school and college rugby programs.
- Portland, Oregon: The Portland Pigs are one of the most well-known rugby clubs in the Pacific Northwest, and the city’s rugby scene is growing rapidly. Portland also hosts an annual rugby sevens tournament, which attracts teams from all over the region.
These are just a few examples of the cities where rugby is on the rise in the United States. As the sport continues to gain popularity, it is likely that more cities will join the ranks of rugby hotbeds, attracting top talent and building a passionate fan base.
Stadiums and Venues for Professional Rugby in the USA
Major League Rugby stadiums
- Infinity Park (Glendale, CO)
- Infinity Park is a rugby-specific stadium located in Glendale, Colorado.
- It is the home ground of the Glendale Rugby Football Club, which competes in the Major League Rugby (MLR) competition.
- The stadium has a seating capacity of 3,000, making it one of the smaller venues in the MLR.
- However, its intimate setting and passionate fans create a unique atmosphere for rugby matches.
- Aveva Stadium (Orlando, FL)
- Aveva Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium located in Orlando, Florida.
- It is the home ground of the Orlando Rugby Club, which also competes in the MLR.
- The stadium has a seating capacity of 5,000, making it one of the larger venues in the MLR.
- The stadium’s location in Orlando, a popular tourist destination, makes it an attractive venue for both local and visiting fans.
- Dicks Sporting Goods Park (Folsom, CO)
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Park is a sports complex located in Commerce City, Colorado.
- It is the home ground of the Colorado Rapids, a Major League Soccer team.
- However, it also hosts rugby matches, including those involving the MLR’s Denver-based team, the Glendale Raptors.
- The stadium has a seating capacity of 18,000, making it the largest venue in the MLR.
- Its proximity to Denver and the surrounding area provides a large potential fan base for rugby matches.
National Rugby Stadiums
Sam Boyd Stadium, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is one of the most iconic rugby stadiums in the United States. It has been the host of the USA Sevens, a premier stop on the World Rugby Sevens Series, since 2016. The stadium’s unique configuration, with seating surrounding a grass field, provides an intimate atmosphere for rugby fans. Additionally, its proximity to the Las Vegas Strip makes it an attractive destination for teams and fans alike.
Toyota Stadium, situated in San Antonio, Texas, is another well-known rugby venue in the United States. It has played host to the USA vs. New Zealand test match, as well as numerous college and high school rugby matches. The stadium’s modern facilities and central location make it a popular choice for rugby events in the Lone Star State.
Bon Secours Stadium, located in Richmond, Virginia, is a newer addition to the rugby landscape in the United States. Opened in 2019, the stadium serves as the home of the Rugby United New York professional rugby team. Its state-of-the-art amenities and location in the heart of Richmond’s historic downtown make it a unique and exciting venue for rugby fans.
Other notable rugby venues
In addition to the stadiums and venues mentioned earlier, there are several other notable rugby venues across the United States where professional rugby thrives. These venues are home to various rugby teams and have played host to numerous high-profile rugby events, showcasing the growing popularity of the sport in the country.
- Mile High Stadium, Denver: Located in Denver, Colorado, Mile High Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium that serves as the home ground for the Denver Barbarians, a semi-professional rugby team. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 76,000 and has hosted several international rugby matches, including the USA Eagles versus the Maori All Blacks in 2016.
- Tucson Stadium, Tucson: Situated in Tucson, Arizona, Tucson Stadium is a historic venue that has been the home of the University of Arizona’s football team since 1903. It also serves as the home ground for the Arizona Vipers, a rugby union team that competes in the Western Rugby Union’s Pacific North Division. The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 30,000.
- Fetzer Field, Ann Arbor: Located on the campus of the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, Fetzer Field is a college football stadium that doubles as a rugby venue. It is the home ground for the Michigan Wolverines rugby team, which competes at the Division I level. The stadium has a seating capacity of approximately 109,000, making it one of the largest rugby venues in the United States.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods Park, Commerce City: Located in Commerce City, Colorado, Dick’s Sporting Goods Park is a soccer-specific stadium that also hosts rugby matches. It is the home ground for the Denver Kickers, a rugby union team that competes in the Pacific North Division of the Western Rugby Union. The stadium has a seating capacity of over 18,000.
- St. Louis Sports Park, St. Louis: Situated in St. Louis, Missouri, St. Louis Sports Park is a multi-sport complex that includes a rugby-specific field. It is the home ground for the St. Louis Rugby Club, a well-established rugby union team that competes in the Midwest. The park also hosts various rugby tournaments and events throughout the year.
These additional notable rugby venues further illustrate the growth and popularity of professional rugby in the United States. From historic college stadiums to modern soccer-specific venues, these sites provide the perfect backdrop for exciting rugby matches and serve as hubs for rugby communities across the country.
The Future of Professional Rugby in the USA
Continued growth and expansion
- New teams and leagues
- In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of professional rugby teams and leagues in the United States. This growth can be attributed to the increasing popularity of rugby in the country, as well as the success of the national team in international competitions.
- One example of this growth is the establishment of the Major League Rugby (MLR) in 2018, which is a professional rugby league that currently consists of seven teams across the United States. The league has been growing steadily since its inception and has attracted top rugby players from around the world.
- Another example is the launch of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) in 2019, which is a national league for women’s rugby that includes teams from across the United States. The WPL has been successful in providing a platform for female rugby players to showcase their skills and compete at a high level.
- Increased media coverage and sponsorships
- As the popularity of professional rugby continues to grow in the United States, so too does the media coverage and sponsorship deals. Major networks such as ESPN and FOX Sports have begun to cover rugby events more extensively, providing greater exposure for the sport.
- Additionally, major brands such as Budweiser and Adidas have started to sponsor rugby teams and events, recognizing the potential of the sport to reach a large and engaged audience.
- Youth development programs
- The growth of professional rugby in the United States has also led to an increase in youth development programs. These programs aim to identify and develop the next generation of rugby players, ensuring that the sport continues to thrive in the country for years to come.
- For example, the USA Rugby Youth Development Program provides opportunities for young players to learn and develop their skills through camps, clinics, and tournaments. The program has been successful in producing talented rugby players who are now competing at the highest levels of the sport.
Challenges and opportunities
Global competition
Professional rugby in the United States faces stiff competition from other rugby powers such as Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa. These countries have a long history of rugby and have established professional leagues that attract top talent from around the world. As a result, the United States must work hard to develop its own talent and compete with these countries on the global stage.
Fan engagement and cultural barriers
Rugby has a relatively small following in the United States compared to other sports such as football, basketball, and baseball. Therefore, one of the biggest challenges facing professional rugby in the United States is building a fan base and increasing fan engagement. This can be particularly difficult given the cultural differences between rugby and other sports in the United States. Rugby is a sport that values teamwork, physicality, and respect, which may not resonate with American sports fans who are accustomed to a more individualistic and competitive approach to sports.
Collaboration with other sports and stakeholders
Despite these challenges, there are also many opportunities for professional rugby in the United States. For example, collaboration with other sports and stakeholders can help to increase exposure and build a broader fan base. Rugby has already begun to collaborate with other sports such as football and lacrosse, which have helped to expand its reach and build a more diverse fan base. Additionally, partnerships with corporate sponsors and media outlets can help to increase exposure and generate revenue for professional rugby teams in the United States.
FAQs
1. Where is rugby played in the USA?
Rugby is played in various cities across the United States, but the sport has a particularly strong presence in states such as California, New York, and Florida. Major League Rugby (MLR) has teams based in cities like Los Angeles, San Diego, Seattle, New York, and Washington D.C., among others.
2. What are some notable rugby venues in the USA?
There are several notable rugby venues in the USA, including:
* Inglewood Stadium in Los Angeles, California, which hosts the MLR’s Los Angeles Giltinis.
* Torero Stadium in San Diego, California, which hosts the MLR’s San Diego Legion.
* Starfire Sports Complex in Seattle, Washington, which hosts the MLR’s Seattle Seawolves.
* James M. Shuart Stadium on the campus of Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, which hosts the MLR’s New York Rugby Club.
* Audi Field in Washington D.C., which has hosted the MLR’s Washington D.C. franchise.
3. Are there any other rugby leagues or competitions in the USA?
Yes, there are several other rugby leagues and competitions in the USA, including:
* The USA Rugby National Championship, which is the top tier of domestic rugby in the United States.
* The USA Rugby Women’s National Championship, which is the top tier of domestic rugby for women in the United States.
* The USA Rugby Sevens National Championship, which is the top tier of domestic sevens rugby in the United States.
* The Collegiate Rugby Championship, which is an annual rugby sevens tournament featuring college teams from across the United States.
4. How can I find out more about rugby in the USA?
If you’re interested in learning more about rugby in the USA, there are several resources you can use:
* The official website of USA Rugby, which is the governing body for rugby in the United States.
* The websites and social media accounts of the various rugby teams and leagues based in the USA.
* Online forums and discussion groups dedicated to rugby in the USA.
* Local rugby clubs and organizations, which may offer opportunities to play or watch rugby in your area.
