THE Las Vegas Nines, to be run by the NRL next month, may become a global event in future years, feeding spectator numbers at the annual premiership double-header there.
The Australasian league has signed a five year deal with local authorities to take two matches annually to the so-called entertainment capital of the world.
The Nines tournament is later add-on to the concept but has proven popular with North American clubs despite the apparent reticence of those in the USARL stronghold of the south-eastern United States.
Some 14 clubs from the United States and Canada have entered mens or women’s teams – or both.
But that’s just the start according to Australia women’s coach Brad Donald, who alongside former Canada coach Mike Castle is charged with the heavy lifting for the Vegas Nines.
“There is $40,000 prize money on offer and the vision that we see for this in coming years is that teams from Australia and England or other parts of the world could enter,” Donald told NRL.com
“Imagine a club like [2023 Illawarra premiers] the Thirroul Butchers, instead of spending money on end-of-season trip away, they come to Vegas in their pre-season and play.
“Our aim is to bring all of the rugby league community together while growing the game in North America.”
