Utah teams join PCRL
Pacific Coast Rugby League are delighted to announce two new men’s affiliate teams in a brand-new Utah conference for 2023, the Riverton Seagulls and the Herriman Roosters.
The clubs will join as the first members of PCRL outside of California, under the umbrella of the Utah Rugby League Association, as we continue to grow the sport of rugby league. The Utah and California conference schedule will be announced shortly, with the champions of each playing for the inaugural PCRL championship and the chance to take on the winners of the USARL east coast competition for the national championship.
Utah’s George Tupou said, “Utah Rugby League is really excited to be a part of PCRL. Ady and their board members have been awesome with their assistance in helping Utah Rugby League to be affiliated with both PCRL and USARL. We want to grow Rugby League here in Utah and throughout the United States, and we believe we can achieve that with being a part of PCRL. We look forward to working together and growing Rugby League the right way by providing pathways for our local players - giving players the opportunity to one day represent this great country is our common goal. We want players to know that this is possible and we will do all we can to showcase Utah talents on broader stages. We can see the future of Rugby League growing as Utah Rugby League Association and Pacific Coast Rugby League work together to grow the game here on the West Coast and throughout the United States. These are exciting times for Rugby League as a whole!”
The Seagulls will be led by club President Mike Palefau and Head Coach Aaron Thompson, while Head Coach Fetu'u Vainikolo and club Vice President Taumata Mamao Taufoou will head up the Roosters.
PCRL and USARL board member David Abo added, “There’s nothing more exciting than finding like minded people who are equally as passionate about Rugby League and growing the game. George and the folks at Utah Rugby League Association are a welcome addition to the family and I’m pumped for the work we will do together.”
This enthusiasm was echoed by PCRL president Ady Cooney: “Our organization is thrilled to witness its expansion with the inclusion of the Roosters and Seagulls. This move reflects our commitment to advancing the game and complying with the standards set by the National Governing Body. Moreover, it creates opportunities for players, coaches, and volunteers to contribute to the development of a more robust rugby league community. We extend our gratitude to all those involved with our partners in Utah and eagerly anticipate the game's progress in the region.”
The men’s competition now consists of six teams, with the Seagulls and Roosters joining founder clubs the San Diego Barracudas and Los Angeles Mongrel, as well as the established Santa Rosa Dead Pelicans and the brand new Los Angeles Bandidos.