NRL's Vegas venture helps inspire first USA youth team
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The NRL Vegas 9s has helped inspire the establishment of a USA U19s team to compete at the European Championships in a landmark development for the game in the United States.
The U19s Hawks will be the first national youth team to represent the US and many of the players were on display at the Vegas 9s, which was held in the lead up to the NRL’s historic season opener at Allegiant Stadium.
Featuring senior and junior tournaments, the Vegas 9s was one of several development initiatives run by the NRL, which included a talent combine to identify North American athletes with potential to play in the NRL or NRLW.
Young Hawks coach George Tupou, who was a Sea Eagles development player and began his coaching career in the Manly A-grade competition before moving to the US in 2010, proactively scouted players at the Vegas 9s.
The 20-man squad, along with five reserve players, was chosen after a series of competitive onsite camps in Utah, which is the only state with a junior rugby league competition.
"This is a big moment for rugby league in the United States,” Tupou said.
“The inclusion of the USA in the European Championship in Belgrade marks not just our first foray into international youth Test matches, but a pivotal step forward for the sport in our nation.
"The establishment of a youth competition in Utah has been instrumental in the development of our inaugural team.
"These foundations have not only fostered local talent but have also demonstrated the potential for rugby league to thrive as a key youth sport throughout the country."
The USA’s first youth international will be against Scotland in the opening round of matches at the European U19s Championship to be staged in Belgrade from July 12 to July 21, with England, France, Serbia and Ukraine being the other nations involved.
"Collectively, as a game, we are working hard to create awareness, pathways, and opportunities to advance rugby league across the United States,” USARL chair Matt Goschnick said.
“Establishing the inaugural USA National Youth Team marks a pivotal milestone and investment in our game, made possible by the relentless dedication, passion, and support of our volunteers.
“This marks the first time in our history that a clear pathway has been established for our junior participants to represent their country, demonstrating our commitment to creating opportunities for those involved in the sport.
“The European Championship will be a valuable test in the early stages of our development model, and an experience many players haven't had, regardless of the results.”
Combine winners reflect on their rugby league journey so far
Tupou, who is also a member of the USARL board, said it was hoped junior competitions would be established across the United States.
"As we prepare for the Championship, our focus is on building from this momentum, enhancing our training programs, and extending our outreach to cultivate rugby league hubs in more states,” he said.
“This is just the beginning. With the dedication we have already seen from our communities, we hope to elevate the presence of rugby league in America, ensuring it becomes a staple sport for future generations."
European Rugby League GM David Butler said: "We’re very pleased to be welcoming the USA to their first youth competition and are glad that despite all the challenges they face, Ukraine remains committed to the tournament”.
