Does the United States Have a Rugby Team?
When it comes to rugby in the United States, there are multiple teams representing different forms of the sport. From the highly skilled USA Eagles in rugby union to the competitive HSBC Sevens, and the professional Major League Rugby (MLR), there are a variety of teams and leagues competing in the United States. Let's dive deeper into the different teams and competitions.
The USA Eagles: A Powerful Rugby Union Team
When discussing the national team of the United States in rugby, the most recognizable name is the USA Eagles. As a member of the United States national rugby union team, the Eagles have showcased their capabilities on the international stage. The team has the ability to surprise with occasional upsets and can hold its own against some of the world's top nations. Currently, the USA Eagles rank 17th in the world, reflecting a solid performance but one that still has room for improvement.
Despite their performance, the USA Eagles faced a disappointing run during the recent Rugby World Cup. However, their journey and achievements should not be overlooked. The team continues to work towards bettering itself, with the goal of ascending further in the world rankings.
Competitive HSBC Sevens: USA’s Rugby 7s Team
In the realm of rugby sevens, the USA has another formidable team – the HSBC Sevens team. This team has consistently performed at a high level, with notable achievements such as placing fifth in 2018 and second behind New Zealand in 2019. In 2020, they secured a third-place finish, showcasing their ongoing competitiveness in the sport.
Rugby sevens is a format of the sport known for its fast-paced and exciting nature, offering fans an opportunity to witness exceptional skill and teamwork. The HSBC Sevens team continues to be a highlight in the world of American rugby.
Major League Rugby: Professional Rugby Union
For those interested in professional rugby union, the United States has a thriving league. The Major League Rugby (MLR) is the top-tier professional rugby organization in the United States. Despite its name, the league is primarily dedicated to rugby union, featuring eleven US-based teams and a Canadian team. With a professional structure and competitive atmosphere, the MLR has become an integral part of rugby culture in the American sports landscape.
The third season of the MLR is set to kick off in a few weeks, promising thrilling matches and numerous opportunities for fans to enjoy the best of international rugby talent. The league continues to grow, attracting fans and players from around the globe, making it a must-watch for rugby enthusiasts.
USA Rugby League: The Hawks in Rugby League
Lastly, the United States also has a rugby league team, the USA Hawks. The Hawks represent a different style of the sport and have a long history of competition. In 2013, they reached the quarterfinals of the Rugby League World Cup, showcasing the potential of American rugby league players. However, the team has since faced challenges, failing to win any of their games in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup. Despite these setbacks, the Hawks remain a vital part of the American sporting landscape, with an amateur domestic competition organized under the USA Rugby League.
The amateur competitions and grassroots initiatives have helped to build a strong foundation for both rugby union and rugby league in the United States, ensuring the growth and development of the sport.
In conclusion, the United States does indeed have several rugby teams, each representing different forms of the sport. From the competitive USA Eagles in rugby union to the exciting HSBC Sevens team, and the professional MLR, there is a rich tapestry of rugby talent and competitions in the United States. Whether you are a fan of rugby sevens, professional union, or the growing rugby league scene, there is something for everyone to enjoy.