History is set to unfold on January 24, 2025, as Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) prepares to face the Fijian Drua at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This match marks a significant milestone as it represents the first-ever contest between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, highlighting the growing global footprint of rugby.
To encourage fan participation, the Fijian Drua has made the event financially accessible, with ticket prices set at just $5 for grass seating and $10 for stands. This initiative reflects both leagues’ commitment to promoting rugby and engaging a wider audience with this historic clash.
RFCLA is enhancing its international presence, underscored by recent player signings, including noted athletes like Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will be led by renowned coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both of whom have earned accolades in the Super Rugby Pacific, promising fans an exciting display of skill and talent.
The Fijian Drua has rapidly garnered attention for its exhilarating playing style since joining Super Rugby Pacific, having qualified for the playoffs in the last two seasons. The squad, co-captained by Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani, is filled with a wealth of “Flying Fijians” talent, making them favorites among rugby enthusiasts.
Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed his enthusiasm for hosting RFCLA, emphasizing that this match represents a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and international partnerships while providing fresh challenges for both teams. RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, echoed these sentiments, noting the significance of the match as a reflection of the franchise’s growth in just one year, hoping to inspire lasting traditions between the clubs.
Jack Mesley, CEO of Super Rugby Pacific, highlighted the match’s importance, particularly as this historic encounter coincides with the USA’s upcoming role as host for the 2028 Olympics and the 2031 Rugby World Cup. He emphasized how these global events could enhance rugby’s presence in America.
Fans eager to attend the match can purchase tickets online through various outlets, and they will also have the unique opportunity to meet their favorite players on the field after the match, enriching the overall experience.
In summary, this landmark fixture not only promises an exhilarating day of rugby but also symbolizes a hopeful future for international collaborations, fostering connections between fans from the United States and Fiji. As both leagues continue to evolve, this matchup serves as a potent reminder of the exciting paths ahead for rugby on a global scale.
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