The National Rugby League (NRL) is setting its sights on global expansion, and former stars Ryan Hoffman and Chad Townsend are throwing their full support behind the initiative. Following the resounding success of the recent Las Vegas experiment, both players believe the NRL should be actively exploring new international markets to further grow the 13-man game.
On a recent episode of The Boardroom NRL Podcast, Hoffman and Townsend discussed the potential for a “global round,” a concept championed by ARL Chairman Peter V’landys. V’landys has publicly expressed his ambition to take the NRL to cities like London, Tokyo, and even Miami in the near future, a vision that has clearly resonated with the former players.
Where to Next? US East Coast or UK?
While both Hoffman and Townsend are enthusiastic about international expansion, they differ on the ideal next destination. Hoffman is keen to further tap into the American market, suggesting a move to the East Coast. He pointed to the historical presence of rugby league in areas like Boston and New York, and the success of teams like the Jacksonville Axemen.
“Miami was mentioned by Peter V’landys, which is a very interesting concept,” Hoffman commented. “Souths and Leeds Rhinos played a game in Miami in Jacksonville, obviously with that relationship with Russell Crowe.” He believes a strategic shift from the West Coast to the East Coast could unlock greater potential within the US. “For the traditional rugby league people in America, it is the East Coast. So I believe I’d like to see it stay in America personally, and I believe Miami could be the next place to go.”
Hoffman also highlighted the strong Polynesian communities on the West Coast, in places like Utah and California, but reiterated that for broader engagement with established rugby league followers in the US, the East Coast presents a compelling opportunity.
The Unwavering Passion of UK Fans
On the other hand, Chad Townsend advocates for a return to England, citing the incredible passion and atmosphere brought by British fans who travelled to Las Vegas. He observed firsthand how the Super League fixtures, featuring Leeds Rhinos and Hull KR, generated an electric environment that arguably surpassed that of the NRL games.
“Obviously, England, the UK have such a big rugby league footprint with the Super League,” Townsend remarked. “There’s been talk around the NRL potentially buying a stake in the Super League. I think it would absolutely be fantastic to host an NRL game over there in the Northern Hemisphere.”
Townsend questioned the long-term strategy, asking, “Do we play out this 5-year deal, the contract here, and then do we look at other areas?” He believes integrating more Super League involvement into international fixtures would create a more compelling spectacle for fans.
Super League’s Crucial Role in Global Expansion
Hoffman echoed Townsend’s sentiment regarding the importance of the Super League. He specifically suggested that the middle game of a multi-game international event should be reserved for a Super League fixture.
“I think the NRL got it wrong last year by having four games. I think that was way too many,” Hoffman stated, referring to the Las Vegas triple-header. “I think they’ve hit their sweet spot with three, but I’d love to see that middle game be the Super League game just so we can hold on to that atmosphere and fans because no one cheers like English fans with the songs and what they sort of do.”
The impact of English fans was not lost on Townsend either. He described the experience at Fremont Street during game week as “overwhelming” and highlighted the crucial role the travelling supporters played in making the event a success.
“When I was at Fremont Street, the English crowd was absolutely phenomenal. They absolutely made the event,” Townsend enthused. “I thought when the Leeds Rhinos came down, and Hull KR, the champions of the world, came down, they were loud. They were singing their chants, and then when the game happened, the atmosphere was absolutely incredible.”
The success of the Las Vegas initiative has clearly opened the door for further international ambitions. With experienced voices like Hoffman and Townsend advocating for different, yet equally valid, approaches, the NRL has a strong foundation to build upon as it charts its course for global rugby league domination. The key will be in strategically choosing future locations and ensuring that the unique passion of rugby league fans, whether from the US or the UK, is harnessed to create unforgettable sporting spectacles.
