Exploring the World of Rugby League in the United States

The United States has a rich history of rugby, but when it comes to rugby league, the picture is a bit more complicated. Rugby league is a code of rugby football that originated in England and is played by 14 players on each side. While rugby union is widely played in the US, rugby league has not been as popular. But does that mean the US doesn’t have a rugby league? In this article, we’ll explore the world of rugby league in the United States and find out if it’s possible to play and watch rugby league in the land of the free. So, grab your boots and get ready to dive into the exciting world of rugby league in the US!

The Origins of Rugby League in the US

How rugby union paved the way for rugby league in the US

The history of rugby league in the United States can be traced back to the late 19th century when rugby union was introduced to the country. Rugby union, which originated in England, was brought to the US by English expatriates who settled in the United States. The first rugby union match was played in 1874 at the St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland.

As rugby union gained popularity in the US, the need for a separate governing body for the sport became apparent. In 1900, the United States Rugby Football Union (USRFU) was established to oversee the sport. The USRFU followed the rules and regulations of the Rugby Football Union in England, which was the governing body for rugby union worldwide.

The growth of rugby union in the US was significant, and by the 1920s, the sport had become a popular pastime across the country. However, in the 1920s, a schism occurred within the sport when the USRFU refused to adopt new rules proposed by the Rugby League International Board (RLIB) in England. These new rules were designed to make the sport more accessible to working-class players, and the RLIB hoped that the US would embrace them.

As a result of the schism, a new governing body for rugby league was established in the US in 1922. The National Rugby League (NRL) was formed by teams that wanted to adopt the new rules proposed by the RLIB. The NRL’s first season was played in 1923, and the league’s first champion was the Akron Pros.

The establishment of the NRL marked the beginning of rugby league in the US. The league faced numerous challenges over the years, including financial difficulties and competition from other sports. However, the NRL persevered, and today, it is one of the fastest-growing sports in the US.

The establishment of the American Rugby League in 1995

The establishment of the American Rugby League (ARL) in 1995 marked a significant milestone in the development of rugby league in the United States. The ARL was formed as a response to the growing interest in rugby league in the country, and it aimed to provide a structure for the sport to thrive and expand.

The founding members of the ARL were the United States Rugby League (USARL), the Rugby League Development Corporation (RLDC), and the American Football League (AFL). These organizations recognized the potential of rugby league as a sport that could gain widespread popularity in the United States, and they sought to create a professional league that would showcase the best players and teams in the country.

The establishment of the ARL was not without its challenges. The sport of rugby league was still relatively unknown in the United States, and there was a lack of infrastructure and resources to support its growth. However, the founding members of the ARL were determined to overcome these obstacles and build a strong foundation for the sport.

One of the key priorities of the ARL was to promote the development of youth rugby league programs. The organization recognized that the future of the sport depended on cultivating the next generation of players and fans, and it invested heavily in building a network of youth leagues and teams across the country.

The establishment of the ARL also marked the beginning of a new era of professional rugby league in the United States. The league quickly gained a following among fans who were looking for an exciting, fast-paced alternative to traditional American sports, and it attracted top players from around the world who were eager to showcase their skills in the United States.

Today, the ARL continues to be the governing body for rugby league in the United States, and it has helped to foster the growth and development of the sport at all levels. Its establishment in 1995 was a pivotal moment in the history of rugby league in the United States, and it has helped to lay the foundation for the sport’s continued growth and success in the years to come.

The growth of rugby league in the US since its inception

Rugby league was first introduced to the United States in the late 1980s, with the formation of the American Rugby League (ARL). The ARL was established to promote and develop rugby league in the US, and to provide a structure for the sport to grow and flourish.

Since its inception, rugby league has experienced a significant growth in popularity in the US. This growth can be attributed to a number of factors, including increased media coverage of the sport, the establishment of a professional league, and the development of youth and college programs.

One of the key factors in the growth of rugby league in the US has been the establishment of the Rugby League Commission (RLC). The RLC was established in 2014 to oversee the development of rugby league in the US, and to provide a centralized body to govern the sport. The RLC has been instrumental in promoting the sport, and in developing a professional league, the Rugby League United (RLU), which was established in 2017.

Another important factor in the growth of rugby league in the US has been the development of youth and college programs. These programs have provided a pathway for young players to develop their skills and to progress to the professional level. The RLC has established a number of youth and college competitions, which have helped to grow the sport at the grassroots level.

Overall, the growth of rugby league in the US since its inception has been significant. The establishment of the RLC and the development of youth and college programs have provided a solid foundation for the sport to continue to grow and flourish in the US.

Understanding the Differences Between Rugby Union and Rugby League

A brief history of rugby union and rugby league

Rugby Union and Rugby League are two different sports that have their roots in the same game of rugby football. Rugby Union is the more popular of the two sports, and it originated from the code of rugby football played at Rugby School in Warwickshire, England. The first recorded match of Rugby Union was played in 1871 between the Rugby School and the local team, the Foresters. The Rugby Union code was formalized in 1875 with the establishment of the Rugby Football Union (RFU) in England.

Rugby League, on the other hand, was formed as a result of a schism within the Rugby Union code in 1895. The Northern Union, as it was initially known, was created by clubs in the northern English counties who felt that the RFU was biased towards the southern clubs. The Northern Union had a different set of rules, which allowed for more professionalism and player payment, and it quickly gained popularity in the north of England.

Over time, the two codes developed their own distinct rules and styles of play, and they became separate sports. Rugby Union is now played globally, with the International Rugby Board (IRB) governing the sport, while Rugby League is primarily played in Australia, New Zealand, and the northern English counties. Despite their differences, both sports share a common heritage and a passionate following among fans worldwide.

The key differences between the two codes

One of the main differences between rugby union and rugby league is the number of players on the field. In rugby union, there are 15 players on the field for each team, while in rugby league, there are only 13. This difference in player numbers can lead to a different style of play, with rugby league often being more fast-paced and physical.

Another key difference is the rules surrounding handling the ball. In rugby union, players are only allowed to pass the ball laterally or backwards, while in rugby league, players can pass the ball in any direction. This allows for more flexibility in attack and can lead to more scoring opportunities.

In terms of scoring, rugby union and rugby league have some similarities, but also some key differences. In both codes, the goal is to score tries, which are worth six points. However, in rugby union, there is also the option to kick for goal after a try has been scored, which can earn an additional two points. In rugby league, the scoring system is slightly different, with a try worth four points and a successful conversion (kick) after a try worth two points.

Overall, while there are some similarities between rugby union and rugby league, the differences in player numbers, ball handling rules, and scoring systems mean that the two codes have their own unique styles of play.

Why rugby league has struggled to gain a foothold in the US

• Lack of professional leagues and media coverage
  • Limited exposure to the sport, making it difficult for fans to become invested
  • Difficulty in attracting sponsors and investors without a strong fan base
• Cultural differences and competition from other sports
  • American football is the dominant sport in the US, making it difficult for rugby league to gain traction
  • Baseball, basketball, and soccer also have significant followings, which can make it challenging for rugby league to compete for fans
• Difficulty in adapting to the unique aspects of American culture
  • Different attitudes towards team sports and physicality
  • Different approaches to coaching and training
  • Different expectations around the role of sports in society
• Difficulty in building a strong community and developing grassroots programs
  • Limited access to playing fields and facilities
  • Lack of dedicated coaches and volunteers
  • Difficulty in recruiting and retaining players due to the lack of professional leagues and media coverage
• Economic factors and lack of government support
  • Rugby league is not considered a mainstream sport in the US, making it difficult to secure funding and support from government organizations
  • Lack of investment in infrastructure and development programs
  • Difficulty in attracting international players and coaches due to visa restrictions and economic barriers
• Negative perceptions and stereotypes about the sport
  • Rugby league is often associated with violence and aggression, which can make it difficult to attract fans and sponsors
  • Negative media portrayals and a lack of understanding about the sport can lead to misconceptions and misunderstandings about its values and culture
• Inability to build a strong identity and promote the sport effectively
  • Rugby league has struggled to establish a clear identity and message in the US market
  • Lack of successful teams and star players has made it difficult to generate excitement and interest in the sport
  • Difficulty in marketing the sport to non-traditional audiences and promoting its unique features and benefits.

The Current State of Rugby League in the US

The National Rugby League (NRL) and its impact on rugby league in the US

The National Rugby League (NRL) is the top professional rugby league competition in Australia. However, its impact on rugby league in the United States cannot be overstated. The NRL has helped to promote and develop rugby league in the US through various means, including:

• Broadcasting NRL games in the US, which has helped to increase awareness and interest in the sport
• Supporting the development of youth rugby league programs in the US
• Hosting exhibition matches between NRL teams and US-based rugby league teams, which has helped to raise the profile of rugby league in the US
• Providing financial support to the US-based rugby league teams and organizations, which has helped to sustain and grow the sport in the US

Overall, the NRL’s involvement in the US has been instrumental in promoting and developing rugby league in the country. The NRL’s efforts have helped to establish rugby league as a viable and competitive sport in the US, and have provided a platform for US-based rugby league teams and players to showcase their skills on a global stage.

The relationship between the NRL and the United States Rugby League (USRL)

The National Rugby League (NRL) is the premier professional rugby league competition in Australia. It has a strong following and a large fan base. The United States Rugby League (USRL) is the governing body for rugby league in the United States. It is responsible for the development and growth of rugby league in the country.

The relationship between the NRL and the USRL is an important one. The NRL has been instrumental in helping to develop rugby league in the United States. It has provided financial support and resources to the USRL, and has helped to promote the sport in the country.

One of the key initiatives between the NRL and the USRL is the International Origin Match. This is an annual rugby league match between the United States and Canada. The match is played in different locations across the United States and Canada, and is seen as a key event in the development of rugby league in North America.

Another initiative is the NRL’s involvement in the development of the USA Tomahawks, a rugby league team that represents the United States in international competitions. The NRL has provided support and resources to the team, and has helped to promote the sport in the United States.

Overall, the relationship between the NRL and the USRL is a positive one. The NRL has been instrumental in helping to develop rugby league in the United States, and the two organizations continue to work together to promote the sport and grow its popularity in the country.

The growth of college rugby league and the National Collegiate Rugby (NCR)

In recent years, college rugby league has experienced significant growth in the United States. The National Collegiate Rugby (NCR) has played a pivotal role in this expansion, serving as the governing body for college rugby league programs across the country.

One of the key factors contributing to the growth of college rugby league is the increasing popularity of rugby union in the US. As more people become interested in rugby, they often discover the faster-paced and more accessible nature of rugby league. This has led to a surge in the number of college rugby league teams, with many universities now offering both union and league programs.

The NCR has played a crucial role in supporting this growth by providing a structured framework for college rugby league. The organization hosts an annual championship tournament, which brings together the top college rugby league teams from across the country. In addition, the NCR offers coaching education and resources, as well as player development opportunities, to help young athletes hone their skills and pursue careers in rugby league.

Another factor contributing to the growth of college rugby league is the success of the United States’ national rugby league team, the Tomahawks. The team’s performances on the international stage have inspired many young players to take up the sport and pursue their dreams of representing their country.

As college rugby league continues to grow in popularity, it is likely that we will see more and more players transitioning to professional rugby league teams in the US and abroad. The future of rugby league in the US looks bright, and the growth of college rugby league programs is a strong indication of this trend.

The rise of local rugby league leagues and clubs across the US

Increased Popularity of Rugby League in the US

Rugby league has been gaining popularity in the United States over the past few years. The increase in popularity can be attributed to several factors, including the growth of the sport at the youth level, the expansion of local leagues and clubs, and the success of American players in professional leagues overseas.

Local Leagues and Clubs

One of the most significant factors contributing to the rise of rugby league in the US is the growth of local leagues and clubs. These leagues and clubs provide opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels to participate in the sport and develop their skills. Many of these leagues and clubs have also formed partnerships with local schools and community organizations, which has helped to promote the sport and attract new players.

High School and College Rugby League

High school and college rugby league programs have also played a significant role in the growth of the sport in the US. These programs provide opportunities for young players to learn the game and develop their skills, which has helped to create a pipeline of talented players entering the sport at the amateur and professional levels.

Success of American Players Overseas

The success of American players in professional leagues overseas has also helped to increase the popularity of rugby league in the US. Players like Jarryd Hayne, who played in the National Rugby League (NRL) in Australia and the Football League (RL) in England, have inspired many young players in the US to take up the sport. Additionally, the success of the USA Tomahawks, the national rugby league team, in international competitions has helped to raise the profile of the sport in the US.

Overall, the rise of local rugby league leagues and clubs across the US is a positive sign for the future of the sport in the country. With continued growth and development at the grassroots level, rugby league has the potential to become a mainstream sport in the US and compete with other traditional sports like football, basketball, and baseball.

Challenges Facing Rugby League in the US

Limited resources and funding for rugby league in the US

Rugby league is a relatively new sport in the United States, and as a result, it faces a number of challenges. One of the most significant challenges is the limited resources and funding available for the sport. Unlike more established sports like football and basketball, rugby league has not yet developed a large following or fan base in the US. This means that there is less money available for the sport, both in terms of sponsorship and participation.

As a result, rugby league clubs and organizations in the US often struggle to secure funding for basic necessities like equipment, facilities, and coaching staff. This can make it difficult for the sport to grow and develop, as it lacks the resources to invest in its future.

Despite these challenges, rugby league remains a popular sport in many parts of the country, and there is a dedicated community of players, coaches, and fans who are committed to its growth and development. With the right support and resources, rugby league could become a thriving sport in the US, attracting new players and fans alike.

The lack of professional opportunities for rugby league players in the US

Despite the growing popularity of rugby league in the United States, the lack of professional opportunities for players remains a significant challenge. This has made it difficult for American rugby league players to make a living from the sport, and has also limited the development of the sport in the country.

One of the main reasons for the lack of professional opportunities is the low level of financial investment in rugby league in the US. Unlike other countries such as Australia and New Zealand, where rugby league is a major sport with significant financial backing, rugby league in the US is still a relatively small sport with limited funding. This has made it difficult for teams and leagues to invest in the development of players and the growth of the sport.

Another factor is the lack of a national professional league in the US. While there are several regional leagues and clubs, there is no national professional league that provides a clear pathway for players to develop and earn a living from the sport. This has led to a situation where many talented players are forced to seek opportunities overseas in order to pursue their dreams of becoming professional rugby league players.

Furthermore, the lack of exposure and media coverage of rugby league in the US has also contributed to the lack of professional opportunities. With limited media coverage, there is less public awareness and interest in the sport, which in turn makes it difficult for teams and leagues to attract sponsors and investors.

Despite these challenges, there are efforts being made to address the lack of professional opportunities for rugby league players in the US. In recent years, there have been efforts to establish a national professional league, and there is also growing interest in developing pathways for players to progress to the professional level. However, much work still needs to be done to overcome the challenges facing rugby league in the US and to develop a sustainable professional pathway for players.

The impact of other sports on the development of rugby league in the US

While rugby league has a rich history in the United States, it has faced numerous challenges in gaining popularity and establishing a strong presence in the country. One of the main obstacles that rugby league has faced is the impact of other sports on its development.

The United States is a country where football, baseball, basketball, and hockey reign supreme, and these sports have long dominated the American sports landscape. As a result, rugby league has struggled to compete with these more established sports for attention, funding, and support.

Football, in particular, has been a major obstacle for rugby league in the US. Football is the most popular sport in the country, and its success has led to the creation of a massive industry that generates billions of dollars in revenue each year. This has made it difficult for rugby league to attract fans, players, and investors, as many people in the US simply do not have an interest in the sport.

Additionally, the professional football league, the National Football League (NFL), has a significant influence on the sports culture in the US. The NFL has a massive following, and its success has made it difficult for other sports, including rugby league, to gain a foothold in the country.

Despite these challenges, rugby league has managed to carve out a niche for itself in the US. The sport has a dedicated following, and there are several professional and amateur leagues that operate throughout the country. However, it is clear that the impact of other sports on the development of rugby league in the US has been significant, and the sport will need to continue to work hard to gain a larger following in the country.

Building a sustainable future for rugby league in the US

Rugby league has faced numerous challenges in establishing a sustainable future in the United States. One of the main obstacles is the lack of exposure and visibility of the sport, as it has struggled to gain a foothold in a country dominated by American football and soccer. Despite this, there are several initiatives underway to help grow the sport and ensure its long-term viability.

Developing Grassroots Programs

Grassroots programs are essential to the growth and development of any sport, and rugby league is no exception. To build a sustainable future for rugby league in the US, it is crucial to invest in programs that encourage young people to take up the sport. This includes initiatives such as youth leagues, development camps, and coaching education programs.

One example of a successful grassroots program is the High School Rugby League, which has been instrumental in promoting the sport at the high school level. The program has seen significant growth in recent years, with more than 20,000 high school students participating in rugby league across the country.

Creating a Strong Professional League

A strong professional league is also critical to the growth of rugby league in the US. While the sport has struggled to gain a foothold at the professional level, there are signs of progress. The creation of the American Rugby League (ARL) in 2018 was a significant step forward, providing a unified structure for the sport and helping to create a clear pathway for players to progress from the grassroots level to the professional ranks.

The ARL currently consists of six teams, with plans to expand to eight teams by 2023. The league has also secured partnerships with several major sports organizations, including the NFL and the LA Rams, which have helped to raise the profile of the sport and attract new fans.

Fostering a Strong Community

Finally, fostering a strong community is essential to building a sustainable future for rugby league in the US. This includes creating a supportive environment for players, coaches, and fans, as well as building relationships with other stakeholders in the sport.

One way to foster a strong community is through the establishment of local rugby league clubs. These clubs provide a sense of belonging and support for players and fans, and help to create a strong sense of identity around the sport. Additionally, these clubs can serve as a hub for community engagement and outreach, helping to promote the sport and build relationships with other stakeholders in the community.

In conclusion, building a sustainable future for rugby league in the US will require a concerted effort to develop grassroots programs, create a strong professional league, and foster a strong community around the sport. While there are certainly challenges to be overcome, there is also significant potential for growth and development, and a committed group of individuals and organizations are working tirelessly to ensure that rugby league continues to thrive in the United States.

The Future of Rugby League in the US

The potential for growth in the US rugby league market

Despite its relatively low profile in the United States, rugby league has shown promising signs of growth in recent years. This potential for growth can be attributed to several factors, including the increasing popularity of rugby union, the growing interest in alternative sports, and the development of youth programs.

Increasing Popularity of Rugby Union

Rugby union has seen a surge in popularity in the United States over the past decade, thanks in part to the success of the USA Eagles national team and the availability of professional leagues such as Major League Rugby. This increased interest in rugby union has helped to raise awareness of rugby league and has attracted new players and fans to the sport.

Growing Interest in Alternative Sports

As the United States becomes more diverse, there is a growing interest in alternative sports that have traditionally been played in other countries. Rugby league, with its roots in Australia and New Zealand, is one such sport that is attracting new fans and players. With the rise of social media and streaming services, it is easier than ever for people to discover and follow sports from around the world.

Development of Youth Programs

The future of rugby league in the United States is heavily dependent on the development of youth programs. Fortunately, there have been several initiatives in recent years to promote the sport among young people. The USA Rugby League, for example, has established a youth development program that includes coaching clinics, training camps, and national championships. These programs are designed to cultivate the next generation of rugby league players and fans, ensuring the sport’s long-term growth in the United States.

Overall, the potential for growth in the US rugby league market is significant. With the right investment in youth development, marketing, and infrastructure, rugby league could become a mainstream sport in the United States, attracting fans and players from all walks of life.

The role of technology and social media in promoting rugby league in the US

The role of technology and social media in promoting rugby league in the US has become increasingly significant in recent years. These platforms have enabled the sport to reach a wider audience and engage with fans in new and innovative ways. Here are some ways in which technology and social media are promoting rugby league in the US:

• Live streaming: One of the most significant benefits of technology is the ability to live stream games. This has enabled rugby league fans in the US to watch games that would otherwise be unavailable to them. Live streaming has also allowed fans to follow their favorite teams and players no matter where they are in the world.
• Social media: Social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram have become essential tools for promoting rugby league in the US. Teams and players use these platforms to share news, updates, and behind-the-scenes insights into their lives and the sport. This has helped to build a sense of community among fans and increase engagement with the sport.
• Virtual reality: Virtual reality (VR) technology is being used to enhance the fan experience by allowing them to feel like they are part of the game. This technology has been used in other sports, such as football and basketball, and is now being explored as a way to promote rugby league in the US.
• Data analysis: Technology is also being used to analyze data and provide insights into the sport. This has helped teams to improve their performance and strategies, and has made the sport more interesting for fans.

Overall, technology and social media are playing a crucial role in promoting rugby league in the US. These platforms have enabled the sport to reach a wider audience and engage with fans in new and innovative ways. As technology continues to evolve, it is likely that rugby league will continue to benefit from these advancements and continue to grow in popularity in the US.

The importance of developing grassroots rugby league programs

Grassroots rugby league programs are crucial for the growth and development of the sport in the United States. These programs serve as the foundation for building a strong and sustainable rugby league community. Here are some reasons why developing grassroots rugby league programs is essential:

Building a Strong Player Base

The success of rugby league at any level is dependent on having a strong player base. Grassroots programs provide the opportunity for young people to learn the game and develop their skills. By introducing rugby league to children at an early age, these programs help to create a pipeline of talented players who can progress through the ranks and eventually represent the United States at the international level.

Promoting the Sport

Rugby league is still a relatively unknown sport in the United States, and grassroots programs play a crucial role in promoting the sport to a wider audience. By hosting tournaments, clinics, and other events, these programs provide a platform for showcasing the sport’s unique features and benefits. This helps to raise awareness of rugby league and attract new participants, fans, and supporters.

Fostering Community Engagement

Rugby league is a community-based sport that thrives on the support and engagement of its participants and fans. Grassroots programs provide an opportunity for people to come together and build a sense of community around the sport. By fostering a sense of belonging and connection, these programs help to create a strong and supportive environment for players, coaches, and fans alike.

Developing Coaching and Refereeing Talent

In order to grow and sustain the sport, it is essential to develop a pool of qualified coaches and referees. Grassroots programs provide the perfect environment for identifying and nurturing talent in these areas. By providing coaching and refereeing opportunities, these programs help to develop the next generation of leaders and officials who will be vital to the sport’s growth and development.

In conclusion, developing grassroots rugby league programs is essential for the future of the sport in the United States. These programs provide the foundation for building a strong player base, promoting the sport, fostering community engagement, and developing coaching and refereeing talent. By investing in grassroots programs, the United States can ensure a bright future for rugby league and continue to build on its success both domestically and internationally.

The potential for the US to host international rugby league events

As the popularity of rugby league continues to grow in the United States, there is a growing possibility that the country may one day host international rugby league events. This would be a significant development for the sport in the US, as it would bring increased exposure and recognition to the game.

There are several factors that suggest that the US has the potential to host international rugby league events. Firstly, the country has a large population and a strong economy, which would make it an attractive option for hosting major sporting events. Additionally, the US has a strong infrastructure in place for hosting large-scale events, including a network of stadiums and arenas that could accommodate international rugby league matches.

Another factor that suggests that the US has the potential to host international rugby league events is the growing number of American players who are competing at the highest levels of the sport. As more and more American players make a name for themselves in rugby league, it is likely that the sport will continue to gain popularity in the US. This could make the country a more attractive option for hosting international events, as organizers would be able to tap into the growing interest in the sport.

Furthermore, the US has already hosted several international rugby league events in the past, including the 2017 Rugby League World Cup, which was held in Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. This suggests that the country has the capability to host international events, and that organizers are confident in the country’s ability to do so.

Overall, the potential for the US to host international rugby league events is a promising development for the sport in the country. It would provide a significant boost to the profile of the game, and could help to further increase its popularity in the US.

FAQs

1. What is rugby league?

Rugby league is a sport that originated in England in the 19th century and is now played worldwide. It is similar to rugby union, but with a few key differences in the rules. The main objective of the game is to score points by carrying the ball over the opposition’s goal line or kicking goals.

2. Is rugby league popular in the United States?

Rugby league is not as popular in the United States as it is in other countries, such as Australia and New Zealand. However, the sport has been growing in popularity in recent years, particularly in states such as California, Florida, and New York.

3. Does the US have a professional rugby league league?

Yes, the United States has a professional rugby league competition called the American National Rugby League (ANRL). The ANRL was founded in 2011 and currently has teams in several states, including California, Florida, and New York.

4. Are there any college rugby league programs in the US?

Yes, there are several colleges and universities in the United States that have rugby league teams. These include institutions such as the University of Central Florida, the University of California, Berkeley, and the University of Arizona.

5. How can I get involved in rugby league in the US?

If you’re interested in getting involved in rugby league in the United States, there are several ways to do so. You can start by finding a local club or team in your area, or by joining a college or university rugby league team. Additionally, there are many resources available online, including websites and social media groups, where you can learn more about the sport and connect with other players and fans.

Which SPORT is Tougher, Rugby League or American Football? | NRL vs NFL