OUT TO TACKLE A WHOLE NEW WORLD
Fledgling pro league bullish about chances of gaining mainstream status in North America
HOUSTON — A rugby revolution is taking place in the United States where it is hoped the launch of a new professional league will unlock the potential of the game in the world’s biggest sports market, former Ireland international Justin Fitzpatrick said.
Fitzpatrick is coach of the Houston SaberCats, one of seven sides competing in the inaugural season of Major League Rugby (MLR) that kicked off last month, the latest bid by rugby union to gain traction in North America.
“The potential in this market is huge and rugby has been the fastest growing sport in the US in the past five years,” Fitzpatrick said.
“Major League Rugby is the logical step in unlocking that potential and already we are seeing a tremendous response to the competition.
“I firmly believe that in 15 or 20 years, Major League Rugby could rival Super Rugby and the top European leagues. That is the potential that exists here from both a playing and commercial point of view.”
Prior to the start of the season, MLR signed television deals with ESPN and CBS Sports Network, which ensured that all 31 games will be broadcast nationally.
“We are the first professional sport to have a national broadcasting deal right out of the gate. That is huge,” Fitzpatrick said.
“When you combine the elements that our game has visually — it is a fast-paced and collision-based sport, but also has the elements of respect — it is an easy sell to America.
“Once Americans are exposed to it, as they have been in growing numbers, they fall in love with the sport.”
The league currently has teams from Austin, Houston, Glendale (Colorado), New Orleans, San Diego, Seattle and Salt Lake City, with a New York side to start competing next season.
“To have an American competition that brings that intercity rivalry and allows rugby to be accessible to more local markets is going to really help grow the game,” Fitzpatrick said.
“In an American sporting context, that’s how it works — Seattle playing Houston, Chicago playing Atlanta. You have to have that intercity rivalry.
“If we can get 10 to 12 teams in the next few years, which is looking very promising, we will be in a strong position.”
With teams restricted to five foreign imports, MLR is hoping to draw players primarily from two areas — both largely untapped to this point.
“How many incredible athletes fall just short of making it to the major sports in America? Be it American football or
“I firmly believe that in 15 or 20 years, Major League Rugby could rival Super Rugby and the top European leagues.”
Justin Fitzpatrick, former Ireland international