Rugby Football Club Los Angeles (RFCLA) is poised to make history with its inaugural match against the Fijian Drua on January 24, 2025, at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji. This groundbreaking event will mark the first-ever encounter between a Major League Rugby (MLR) team and a Super Rugby Pacific squad, a significant milestone that underscores the growing global stature of both leagues.
To ensure that fans can partake in this monumental occasion, the Fijian Drua has set affordable ticket prices: $5 for grass embankment seating and $10 for stands. This initiative reflects the commitment of both leagues to promote rugby and engage a wider audience, facilitating participation from all segments of the community.
The RFCLA is making notable strides on the international stage, enhanced by the recent signings of players like Christian Leali’ifano and Olympic gold medalist Semi Kunatani. The team will be guided by veteran coaches Stephen Hoiles and David Dennis, both champions in Super Rugby, promising an electrifying display on the field.
Since entering Super Rugby Pacific, the Fijian Drua has captured the hearts of rugby fans with its dynamic playing style, having reached the playoffs in their last two seasons. Led by co-captains Tevita Ikanivere and Frank Lomani, the team showcases a passionate approach to the sport that is characteristic of Fiji’s rugby culture.
Baden Stephenson, General Manager of Rugby for the Fijian Drua, expressed his enthusiasm about hosting RFCLA, highlighting the match as a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and to strengthen ties internationally. “This game is not just a competition; it’s an opportunity to connect and grow as a rugby community,” he remarked.
RFCLA’s CEO, Pete Sickle, acknowledged the significance of this match for his team, associating it with the considerable growth experienced during their inaugural season. He hopes that this fixture will pave the way for enduring traditions between the two clubs and countries.
The event holds great significance, especially with the upcoming 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles and the 2031 Rugby World Cup set to be hosted in the USA. Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley emphasized the broader implications of this match for rugby’s growth in America and the potential for increased collaboration between the leagues.
Following the match, fans will have a unique opportunity to meet their favorite players on the field, enhancing the communal experience surrounding this historic event.
This significant clash not only promises thrilling rugby action but also symbolizes a hopeful future for international collaborations. As both leagues continue to evolve, this match stands to unite fans and players across continents, fostering deeper connections and celebrating the global growth of rugby. It represents an exciting moment for rugby enthusiasts everywhere, heralding a new era for the sport with the potential for ongoing partnerships across borders.
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