Can rugby become a MAJOR PLAYER in US sports? — USA Rugby CEO believes so

Key Concepts

• Rugby's growing presence in the US
• Major upcoming international rugby events in America
• Potential for rugby to become a major sport in the US
• Characteristics of rugby that appeal to American audiences
• Current participation numbers in US rugby
• The positive fan culture surrounding rugby

Rugby's Ascendancy in the United States

The United States is poised for a significant surge in rugby's popularity, driven by the upcoming hosting of three major international rugby events. These include the LA Olympics in 2028, and both the Men's and Women's Rugby World Cups. Bill Goran, the Chief Executive of USA Rugby, expressed strong optimism about leveraging these events to elevate rugby to the status of major American sports like basketball, football, baseball, and hockey.

Potential for Major Sport Status

Goran believes the opportunity is "right there in front of us" to establish rugby as a major sport in the US. He highlighted that the influx of these three significant tournaments provides a unique platform for growth.

Rugby's Appeal on Television and to American Audiences

The transcript suggests that rugby's inherent qualities make it well-suited for television and potentially more engaging than sports like soccer or American football. Goran described rugby as "80 minutes of non-stop action" with highly skilled athletes. He emphasized that the sport is engaging regardless of a viewer's prior knowledge, as the intensity and the athletes' efforts are captivating.

A key characteristic noted is the absence of padding and helmets, which contributes to the sport's "rough and tough" image. This physicality, it is argued, should resonate with American audiences.

Current Participation and Growth Strategy

Despite the sport's potential, the US faces the challenge of a large, geographically dispersed population. USA Rugby is actively working to expand its reach and increase participation. Currently, over 100,000 athletes are playing rugby across the United States. The strategy involves building a foundation for young players to develop into a national team.

Case Study: Soldier Field Game

A real-world example illustrating rugby's growing appeal was the game at Soldier Field in Chicago between the New Zealand All Blacks and Ireland. This event drew a crowd of 61,000 people, indicating a strong existing fan base and significant public interest. The atmosphere was described as "packed" and the crowd as "very nice."

Rugby's Classy and Inclusive Fan Culture

The transcript contrasts the rugby fan experience with that of soccer, suggesting that rugby fosters a more positive and inclusive environment. The Soldier Field game exemplified this, with supporters of opposing teams coexisting amicably. Goran stated, "Great great people are involved in the sport and yes, you can be on two different sides when they're playing on the pitch, but when the game is over, everyone's celebrating each other." This highlights rugby's reputation as a "classy sport" with a strong sense of community and sportsmanship.

Conclusion and Key Takeaways

The upcoming major international rugby events in the US, coupled with the sport's inherent excitement and the positive fan culture, present a significant opportunity for rugby to become a major sport in America. USA Rugby is focused on growing the player base and capitalizing on these events to build momentum. The Soldier Field game serves as a testament to the existing interest and the potential for large-scale engagement. The sport's appeal lies in its continuous action, elite athleticism, and a community-oriented fan base that celebrates sportsmanship.