History will be made on January 24, 2025, when Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) faces off against the Fijian Drua at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This match marks a significant milestone as the first-ever clash between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, highlighting the expanding global footprint of rugby.
To ensure that this historic encounter is accessible to all fans, the Fijian Drua has set ticket prices at a modest $5 for grass seating and $10 for stands. This initiative reflects both leagues’ dedication to promoting rugby and engaging a wider audience for this landmark occasion.
RFCLA is enhancing its international profile with key signings, including standout players like Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will be coached by experienced figures Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both champions of Super Rugby, promising an exciting display of talent for attendees.
The Fijian Drua has won over fans with its dynamic playing style ever since joining the Super Rugby Pacific. The team has successfully reached the playoffs for the past two seasons and is led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani. Baden Stephenson, the General Manager of Rugby for the Drua, expressed excitement about hosting RFCLA, noting the opportunity for both players and fans to engage in new challenges and foster international partnerships.
Pete Sickle, CEO of RFCLA, expressed gratitude toward the Fijian Drua for facilitating this unique opportunity and emphasized the significance of the match as a reflection of RFCLA’s growth in its inaugural year. He hopes this fixture will inspire lasting traditions between the two clubs as well as their respective nations.
Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley highlighted the timing of this match, particularly with the USA set to host the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the Rugby World Cup in 2031. This event serves as a pivotal moment for growing rugby’s presence in the United States.
Fans eager to attend can purchase tickets online or at various local outlets. Following the match, a special opportunity will allow fans to meet players on the field, further enriching the experience.
This significant contest not only promises an exhilarating day of rugby but also represents a hopeful step toward fostering deeper connections and traditions between the United States and Fiji. With both leagues evolving, this event is set to inspire and unite fans across continents, showcasing rugby’s potential for growth and international collaboration.
In summary, this historic matchup exemplifies the spirit of rugby as a unifying force, bringing together cultures and communities while paving the way for exciting prospects in the future of the sport.
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