King of the Castle: Brooklyn joins forces with Super League’s Castleford Tigers

Established in 1926, the Tigers play in the First Utility Super League, Europe’s elite club competition, as well as the Tetley’s Challenge Cup, the world’s longest running knockout tournament.

The Partnership will see both clubs share resources and implement initiatives to develop the game and their brands on a global scale. Kings co-founders, Matt Bailey and Justin Coffman, are looking forward to working closely with Castleford personnel. “This is absolutely our most exciting coup to date”, said Bailey. “To join the family of a successful, professional sports organization in the Tigers is of unprecedented value to the development of our team both on and off the field.”

Just as thrilled was Castleford CEO, Steve Gill, “We are very pleased to offer the Tigers brand as a means of developing the Brooklyn Kings not only in the States, but in the UK as well. It is great to envision one day having a New York bred player pull on the famous black and amber of the Tigers.” The clubs plan to nurture a long-lasting relationship where players, coaches, management and fans of both organizations are able to interact with one another.

The deal was facilitated by former Tigers try-scoring machine, Nick Youngquest, who has joined the Kings in a coaching and development capacity. With 248 games of NRL and Super League experience under his belt, Youngquest’s presence will no doubt result in more bodies at training and improved performance on the pitch. “I’m beyond excited to come on board at the Kings in their inaugural USARL season”, said Youngquest. “Matt and Justin have done a great job to get the ball rolling, and I think that, collectively, we can make this the premier Rugby League team in America.”

No matter what part of the world, you can show your support for the Brooklyn venture by becoming a founding member and being the first to own official merchandise. “The role of members in our fight for a premiership cannot be underestimated”, said Bailey. “The response so far has been unbelievable. We have members from Brooklyn, North Carolina, Texas, and even Australia, New Zealand and the UK. We’re excited to see who signs up next!”

The Kings are set to participate in the USARL International Nine’s Tournament hosted by the Philadelphia Fight on May 17, followed by round 1 of the season proper away to the Rhode Island Rebellion on May 31. The Kings play their first home game in Brooklyn on June 7 against the Boston 13’s.

Become a Brooklyn Kings Founding member by visiting the Membership Drive. Also stay tuned to www.brooklynkingsrugby.com, Facebook and Twitter.

Check out the Castleford Tigers on www.castigers.com, Facebook and Twitter.