USARL Announces Formation and Sanctioning of Hawks Youth National Team

Jacksonville, FL, 4.13.24 – The United States Association of Rugby League (USARL) proudly unveils a historic milestone in the growth of rugby league in the United States with the official sanctioning of the USA Hawks Youth National Team. This marks the first time in history that the USA has formed a youth team, reflecting the organization's commitment to nurturing young talent and providing a pathway for their development in the sport.

George Tupou, a former player in the Manly (AUS) development system and a member of the USARL Board of Directors, has been appointed as the coach for the USARL Hawks Youth team. George brings a wealth of experience in coaching and youth development, having started coaching in the Manly A-grade competition in 2000 before moving to the US in 2010. George's exceptional contributions to Utah Rugby League and his successful management of youth competitions in Utah and Australia make him the ideal leader for nurturing young talent within the American rugby league community. George's proactive scouting efforts at events such as the Vegas 9s tournament and other USA matches further demonstrate his dedication to identifying and developing promising youth players.

"I am incredibly excited and honored to be appointed as the coach and director of the newly sanctioned USARL Youth team. This marks a historic moment for rugby league in the United States, as we establish the first-ever USA Hawks youth team," said Tupou. "Being part of the USA Hawks youth team not only provides these players with a platform to showcase their talent on the international stage but also instills in them a sense of pride and responsibility as ambassadors for the sport in our country.”

Tupou emphasized the transformative impact of the USARL Youth team on youth rugby league domestically, stating, "By nurturing and developing our youth talent, we are laying the foundation for a stronger and more competitive rugby league landscape in the United States as we hope to inspire more young athletes to pursue the sport by providing them with clear pathways for development and progression."

Commenting on this momentous occasion, Interim USARL Chairman David Abo stated,

"We are thrilled to announce the creation of the first-ever USARL Hawks Youth team and the appointment of George Tupou as the coach. George's outstanding work in Utah, where he has been instrumental in nurturing youth talent, has set a remarkable precedent. His commitment to youth development aligns perfectly with our vision of expanding rugby league across the nation."

Establishing a pathway for youth development is essential for the growth of rugby league in the US. With the creation of the USARL Hawks Youth team, USARL now provides a platform for young athletes to showcase their skills and compete at an international level. George Tupou's leadership will not only elevate the performance of our youth team but also inspire young players nationwide to pursue their passion for the sport.

"We are excited about the opportunities this initiative brings and look forward to seeing the USARL Hawks Youth team thrive under George's guidance. Together, we are laying the foundation for a brighter future for rugby league in the United States," added Abo.

The USARL Hawks Youth team is eager to kickstart their journey and will hold its first combine on April 22nd from 6-8 in Utah. Players who are unable to attend the combine are encouraged to submit game films along with two references from coaches.

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About USARL:

The United States Association of Rugby League (USARL) is the governing body for the sport of rugby league in the United States. Committed to promoting and developing the sport at all levels, the USARL strives to provide opportunities for players, coaches, and fans to engage with and enjoy the excitement of rugby league.