On January 24, 2025, a significant milestone in rugby history will take place as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) makes its debut against the Fijian Drua at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This match represents the first-ever encounter between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, underscoring the sport’s growing global reach and popularity in both the United States and Fiji.
The Fijian Drua, which has rapidly gained acclaim since its entry into the Super Rugby Pacific, has qualified for playoffs in both of its last two seasons. The team is renowned for its dynamic playing style and is led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani. Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Drua, expressed excitement over hosting RFCLA, citing the match as an opportunity to engage players and fans in new challenges and foster international relationships.
RFCLA has also made impressive strides, assembling a formidable team that includes Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani and former Moana Pasifika captain Christian Leali’ifano. The squad is coached by seasoned rugby professionals Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, promising a competitive and entertaining display on the field.
To ensure widespread attendance and community engagement, ticket prices have been set affordably at $5 for general ground access and $10 for stands. Fans can purchase tickets online and at various local outlets. Additionally, spectators will have the unique opportunity to meet players on the field following the match, enhancing their experiences and fostering a closer connection to the sport.
This historic fixture not only highlights the burgeoning prominence of rugby but also serves as a hopeful sign for future collaborations between leagues. It emphasizes the bonds between the United States and Fiji and opens the door for fostering lasting traditions between both clubs.
As anticipation builds for this momentous event, it promises to unite fans from different continents, showcasing rugby’s potential for growth and collaboration on an international scale. The match not only celebrates the spirit of rugby but also represents a shared vision for a brighter future in the sport.
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