Also supported by the Amity Township Athletic Club in the Daniel Boone School district, the youth touch rugby league program will commence on April 14 and carry through the Spring and Summer months in conjunction with the American Youth Rugby League Association.

The April 14 event in an introductory class designed to show kids and parents the basics of Rugby League and a precursor to the 10 week league. Lead by Philadelphia Fight CEO and former USA Tomahawk Ryan McGough, it will coincide with part of the USARL regular season in the hope that some of the kids will play pre matches to Fight home games

Specific skills and games will be played including:

• Catch & pass
• Run & pass
• Evade & defend
• Play-the-ball
• Small games

The day is open to kids ages 7-16 and there is no cost to attend.

For those interested, please RSVP with Ryan McGough at by Friday April 6

Youth Rugby League Clinic
Date: Saturday April 14, 2012
Time: 10-12pm
Location: Playing fields at 55 Amity Park Road, Birdsboro, PA 19508
Cost: Free

The majority of the USARL teams have confirmed their interest to participate in the tournament. An invitation has been extended to other international and domestic Rugby teams to participate in what should be a first class event for both players and spectators. The entrance fee is $350 per team with half the proceeds allocated as prize money to the two finalist teams. Interested teams should contact Lawrence Almagno no later than April 15.

The USARL International 9’s, in only its second year in existence, will see the event played in Rhode Island after it was announced that the Philadelphia Fights home field will be unavailable for most of the 2012 season.

The Rebellion has already begun working with the Rhode Island Sports Commission to support the event, leading to the use of Tucker Field in Cumberland, RI. The 2,000 seat stadium is just minutes from downtown Providence and is well equipped to support a number of teams as well as concessions for what expects to be a capacity crowd.

Not slowing down from an incredible inaugural season last year, the Rebellion are capitalizing on media interest gained after being broadcast on the hit TV show “Man vs Food”, WPRO’s hit radio show “Dan Yorke” in addition to a coveted appearance on the front page of the Providence Journal. Plans are now underway with local radio, newspapers and news communities that will quickly reach to local residents in the coming months.

The Sheraton Providence is supporting the event by offering room rates for participating teams at $79 per night with pickup available to and from the Airport and Train Station. A bus will also be available to take teams to Tucker Field as well the post match function at Ladder 133 in Providence.

More details to follow soon.

About the USARL 9’s

Rugby league nines (or simply nines) is a version of rugby league football played with nine players on each side. The game is substantially the same as full rugby league (13 a side), with some differences in rules and shorter games. Nines is usually played in festivals, as its shorter game play allows for a tournament to be completed in a day or over a single weekend. It has become more popular than the similar rugby league sevens (rugby league with seven players to a side), with many tournaments using nines to distinguish it from rugby union sevens.

The same as rugby league laws with the following exceptions.

• Each team is allowed a squad of up to fifteen players, with no more than nine players on the field at any time. Unlimited substitutions are allowed from a named bench of four players.
• The match lasts for 20 minutes, divided into two halves of 9 minutes. 2 minute interval allowing for the teams to change ends.
• Each half starts with a place kick.
• Scrums consist of no more than 5 forwards, with a maximum 3 in the front row and 2 in the second row. When the ball is in the scrum no more than 4 players from each team shall act as backs. The ball must emerge from behind the feet of the second row.
• Conversions after a successful try take the form of drop kicks. Players from the team that has conceded the score do not have to retire behind the try line but must not interfere with any conversion attempt.
• When points have been scored the team against which points have been scored will receive a drop kick from the team that scored (must travel at least 10 meters).

The match was the brain child of Dane Campbell who initiated contact with the Slayers last summer.  Negotiations were concluded last week with the Slayers accepting the invitation to visit and final details are still in the works with possible venues including the National Stadium.

The event will mark the first time an American side has played in Jamaica and the honor is not lost on the Slayers. “We’re truly honored to be the first US side to be invited by the Hurricanes. Jamaica and the USA share a great love for Rugby League and this event is huge for both nations. We look forward to the experience,” said a member of the Slayers board of directors.

Of the event, Campbell offered, “this will be a massive opportunity for the Hurricanes to show to the greater North American rugby league public that we are capable of hosting major events and teams and doing it in a true Jamaican way. It will be great to have the DC Slayers as the first team to experience our hospitality and it will give our players a real drive and determination to strive towards over the coming months.”

Additional details will be released as they become available.

Peter Illfield Chairman of the USARL

With the inclusion of three previously non-existent clubs from Massachusetts, New Jersey and Rhode Island, the tyranny of distance between matches on the east coast of the USA could have affected the consolidation of a competition in its infancy. Club resources, match officials and finances were extended to their limits but all prevailed to provide a fully completed and competitive season.

Also encouraging is the interest generated in other locations of the USA with the intention to be key stakeholders for the USARL in developing and fostering the game. Individuals in California, Washington State, Texas, Colorado, Maryland, Pennsylvania and up-State New York have expressed their desire to be a part of the expanding picture of the USARL.

Each club is to be congratulated on their efforts in developing the sport and constructing the best Rugby League competition in the USA.

I thank Vanguard for being the USARL’s supplier of club-branded footballs and Akuma for their professional supply of playing kits and other apparel.

Special congratulations are in order for:

1. Jacksonville Axemen; hosting the New Zealand Police in April.
2. Philadelphia Fight; completing the historic first USA club tour to England in April.
3. Philadelphia Fight; hosting the first ever International 9‘s Tournament in the USA during May.
4. Rhode Island Rebellion for initiating the non-profit American Youth Rugby League Association (AYRLA).
5. Jacksonville Axemen again hosting the Atlantic Cup in November.

On an outstanding note, Mikhael Shammas, Director Coaching and Technical, and Alan Chmielewski, USARL Match Official, created and are co-directors of the North American Match Officials Association. NAMOA is responsible for the education and development of match officials for the USARL. Both Mikhael and Alan attended workshops in London and have been accredited as RFL Match Official Course Tutors’.

The second outstanding achievement is the creation of the American Youth Rugby League Association (AYRLA) by Lawrence Almagno, Director Club and Youth Development. AYRLA is a non-profit organization relying on volunteers and small grants to conduct and deliver RL activities and games in conjunction with the Providence After School Alliance. AYRLA’s 10 week program involves students in the critical 11-14yrs and 15-18yrs age groups. The majority of students are underprivileged and are excited to be involved in the program.

In brief, the success of the 2011 season could be measured by:

1. The introduction and participation of three (3) USARL clubs not previously in existence (OneidaFC, Rhode Island Rebellion and New Jersey Turnpike Titans).
2. The completion of the first International 9ʻs Tournament played in the USA.
3. The introduction by South Eastern RL of three (3) minor teams in Florida.
4. Completion of all scheduled matches.
5. A competitive season in which no club dominated over the course of the season.
6. The higher-than-usual standard of venues in which matches were conducted.
7. The initiation of AYRLA to conduct school based RL programs and competitions across the USA,
8. No financial liabilities.
9. No incidents seeking insurance claims.
10. The establishment of a well constructed website.

The future of the USARL looks positive and sustainable. There will be challenges to overcome and the USARL will continue to work with its Member Clubs and developing regions to consolidate their positions to increase participation, education and development activities.

As planning continues to develop the game in the USA we will ensure that the legacy of the USARL will be felt by all the communities within Rugby League – community clubs, supporters, sponsors and volunteers.

I would like to close by once again thanking everyone involved with Rugby League for their continued efforts, particularly at this time, to promote our great sport.

Peter Illfield
Chairman
USA Rugby League LLC

Headed up by recently converted rugby league lover in Joe Pontak, the Baltimore Blues will take the field in 2012. Pontak a former lacrosse player has only being playing rugby league for the past two years with Boston 13s and then last year with the DC Slayers. At 33 Pontak was so drawn to the game he decided he wanted to be more involved beyond his short exposure and limited time left playing the game.

Asked why he started the club, Pontak said. “Back in 2010, I decided to play for my mom who was diagnosed with breast cancer and it was one of the most heart-wrenching moments of my life. I wanted to her to see me pull on a professional jersey, play each week and make her proud.” He continued, “I’m looking forward to creating a brotherhood amongst our players, and founding the club upon the values that Rugby League has taught me: Family, Honor, Heart and Friendship.”

The Blues are currently exploring ground options in central Baltimore that match USARL field standards and are in negotiations with several sponsors that have verbally committed to their 2012 season. Player ranks are already over 20 with half having backgrounds in Rugby Union through local Colleges UNBC and Loyala. The other athletes have backgrounds with American football all having expressed an interest in learning and playing Rugby League. The Blues are looking into bringing in an overseas coach and possibly players for several key positions.

The 2012 USARL National Competition is due to commence on June 2 with Grand Finalists, Philadelphia Fight and New Haven Warriors, opening proceedings with a rematch of the 2011 Championship decider in New Haven as part of the season opening weekend.”

If you are interested in joining the Baltimore Blues Rugby League Club for their inaugural year, contact: joepontak_tiny@hotmail.com.

The British Police Team defeated the Axemen in the opening game of the tournament last Saturday before the Australian team etched out a victory over the British squad in an epic battle on Wednesday night. The Axemen now have the daunting task of trying to match up with the Aussies to secure a win for the USA.

Possible outcomes

• Helensburg Wins and they take the Cup with two winning games
• Axemen win by a narrow margin and the Cup will go to the British team due to points for an against and each team having won 1 game
• Axemen win by a large enough margin and they can secure the Cup for the USA

Tomorrows game will kick off at 2pm at Hodges Stadium, UNF. (gates open at 1pm). Walk up entry is only $5 and $1 beers will be on sale all game long.

Axe Maiden Cheerleader will perform and some great prizes in the half time raffle will be on offer including “FIREHOUSE FOR A YEAR” thanks to Firehouse Subs.

The Rugby League Atlantic Cup will be presented following the game then all team and MVP awards will take place at the official post game function at TIME OUT SPORTS GRILL on Beach Blvd.

Axemen vs UK Police Match Report

From kick off to games end the weather seemed to be threatening torrential downpour but the skies decided to withhold their bounty at least until this match was said and done. With a cool breeze blowing the Axemen set up to face off against the UK Police team in the first game of the Atlantic Cup. The game could be called nothing else if not physical, with a number of clashing and very audible hits which made even the most experienced spectator cringe. The UK Police, it seems, did not travel all those thousands of miles across the pond to play anything less than their hardest. Likewise, as any fan would know, no game is taken for granted by the Axemen either. This combination in addition to a pitch and a rugby ball is a recipe for one entertaining Saturday afternoon.

Throughout the first half both teams charged at each other with seemingly nothing to lose. The UK police team, through some remarkable plays, had the Axemen on their heels for much of the first half; putting away 34 points to the Axemen 0. However, completely unwilling to quit, late in the first half, the Axemen made their way through the UK defense and were able to put some points on the board before going back to the locker room, ending the first half 34 to 4 UK.

The second half so just as much, if not more explosive play on both sides. Both teams left all on the field and were able to just barely squeeze through the others defense on a number of occasions. After a number of defensive/offensive stalemates on the 50 meter line, the UK police were able to put away a few more tries bringing their total to 62 and the Axemen 12 before game’s end. Final score 62-12 UK Police.

6abc proudly announces that America’s longest running Thanksgiving Day parade will celebrate its 92nd edition with a new title sponsor – Dunkin’ Donuts. “We’re thrilled to have Dunkin’ Donuts as our new title sponsor of this holiday tradition,” says President & General Manager of 6abc, Bernie Prazenica. “Our parade sponsors are a vital component to the parade’s success, and they allow us to improve the viewer experience each and every year.”

“Dunkin’ Donuts has a strong commitment to the Greater Philadelphia Region and to the communities we are proud to keep running every day.” says Jacqueline Keown, Manager of Field Marketing, Mid-Atlantic Region, Dunkin’ Donuts. “Thanksgiving is a time for family and traditions and Dunkin’ Donuts is honored to partner with 6abc this year to present the 6abc Thanksgiving Day Parade — one of the oldest and most treasured family traditions in Philadelphia.”

The 3-1/2 hour telecast of the 6abc Dunkin’ Donuts Thanksgiving Day Parade kicks off live at 8:30 a.m. on November 24th on 6abc, and will be syndicated in markets from Philadelphia to North Carolina. The parade also marks the beginning of 6abc’s Holiday Food Drive, which will also have Dunkin’ Donuts as the title sponsor.

PARADE BACKGROUND

This is the 92nd year of Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Gimbel’s started the tradition in 1920. The department store continued to produce the parade until the company went out of business in 1986. That’s when WPVI-TV and its corporate sponsors stepped in. 6abc, which produces the parade in its entirety, has continued to build Philadelphia’s Thanksgiving Day tradition, adding ABC Network celebrities, stars from stage and screen, Disney characters, and local personalities, including members of the Action News team.

6abc is WPVI-TV, the ABC-owned station serving the tri-state area

While only midway through the 10 week program, initial feedback has seen groups like the Providence After School Alliance’s HUB and the Institute for Non- Violence discuss co-partnerships with AYRLA to involve work with programs that expand beyond Flag Rugby League.  Plans are in the works to include local youths in coaching programs with the AYRLA via the USA Rugby League and also match officiating programs with NAMOA.

AYRLA kids will also participate in a current raiser to the British Royal Marines vs New England Immortals (comprised of USARL New England teams) on April 27th.

Lawrence Almagno, Director of USA Rugby League’s Club & Youth Development program AYRLA commented, “What we have accomplished in the past 6 weeks has been incredible.  With 100% enrollment from the middle schools we now have waiting list for new kids to join through word of mouth.” He continued, “The Rebellion brand is celebrating tremendous support in the local community and as a result we are now part of discussions for making Rugby League part of the culture for local high school aged youth.”

The Rhode Island Sports commission, which is tied into the Tourism Council of Rhode Island is also backing the Rebellion to host the 2012 British Royal Marines and the USARL Grand Final by offering access to stadiums, facilities, PR and hotels.

Special thanks go out to Rugby Imports who donated team t-shirts and Chris Palombo who has generously donated a ball for each kid playing.   If you are interested in supporting or sponsoring a local school, please contact Lawrence Almagno

To learm more about the AYRLA program, please visit the AYRLA Blog / Website

Fox Soccer Plus will be showing the toughest Rugby League nations (New Zealand, Australia, England, and Wales) square off starting on October 28th and finishing up on November 19th. Check out the link below to view it on DirectTv, Dish Network and Verizon FIOS.

Gillette Four Nations Schedule

Fri 28th Oct 2011 KO: 20,00
Halliwell Jones Stadium
Australia vs. New Zealand

Sat 29th Oct 2011 KO: 14,30
Leigh Sports Village
England vs. Wales

Sat 5th Nov 2011 KO: 13,00
Wembley Stadium
Wales vs. New Zealand

Sat 5th Nov 2011 KO: 15,30
Wembley Stadium
England vs. Australia

Sat 12th Nov 2011 KO: 18,00
Kingston Communications Stadium
England vs. New Zealand

Sun 13th Nov 2011 KO: 17,45
Wrexham FC
Wales vs. Australia

Sat 19th Nov 2011 KO: 18,00
Elland Road
Finalists TBD

This November, the Atlantic Cup Challenge returns to Jacksonville for the third straight year with the Jacksonville Axemen taking on two teams from Australia and the United Kingdom.

The 2011 Rugby League Atlantic Cup will be contested between the USA, Australia and the United Kingdom from November 19 through 26 at Hodges Stadium at the University of North Florida. Games dates are 19, 23 and 26 and full details on times and associated events will be released soon.

The Axemen will be doing all they can to show the visiting teams just how popular Rugby League has become in Jacksonville and to help encourage big crowds walk up tickets will remain at $5 with kids 12 and under admitted free. Concessions will be kept at very reasonable prices and event T-shirts will be on sale for just $10.

Three Game Tournament Tickets will also be on offer for pre-purchase for just $10 and details about on-line sales will come very soon.

The Axemen are extremely excited to be able to represent the USA in this years tournament and after a three year period the seen them in two National Championship game, winning the National Championship in 2010, lose only one home game, be minor premiers twice and have incredible fan and sponsor support, they are looking forward to the opportunity to be the team playing for the United States.

They are equally excited to have the teams from two of the worlds powerhouse Rugby League nations visit Jacksonville to challenge for the cup.

Australia will be represented by the Helensburgh Tigers who are a team that competes in the Illawarra Rugby League Competition just South of Sydney. The Helensburgh Tigers also reached their competitions Grand Final game in 2011 and were narrowly defeated on September 11. They regularly supply a number of players to the National Rugby League (NRL) that is the top level professional competition in the World.

The Tigers also have close ties to the Axemen by way of three import players having played for the Jacksonville team since 2008. Shawn Murray who was the Axemen best forward in the 2008 season came from the Helensburgh team and returned to them after the season in the USA. Current Axemen Captain Brent Shorten who has spent the last 4 seasons with the Axemen and Center Bryce Collins are also former Helensburgh players and both have played alongside Murray in Australia. The fact that Murray will be pulling on the Tigers Jersey while Shorten and Collins will take the field as Axemen will add to the drama of the tournament. “To have the team that has supplied three of our import players visit us is incredible”, said Spinner Howland. “Shawn Murray was a tough second rower who was a stand out during our 2008 season and it is going to be great to see him lead his home team against their former teammates and a number of guys he played with while at the Axemen. I personally am excited to finally have the Tigers come and experience Jacksonville.”

The UK will be represented by their National Police Team, who boast a number of professional players and will come into the Atlantic Cup as the favorites. The UK National Police Team is made up of current police officers from across the UK and many of them have played or are current members of professional or semi professional teams.

Steve Brown is their Captain, he is a former BARLA under 23, England and Great Britain Student International, He is the brother of Kevin Brown the Current England International and Huddersfield Giants player. Steve Captained the British Police during the 2008 World Cup in Australia and to Skanska Cup success in 2009 when the British Police defeated the British Students in the final.

Jason Southwell is their vice captain, Jason has played Super League for the Huddersfield Giants and with Featherstone Rovers and Dewsbury Rams.

Alex Clemie will be their fullback, Alex was also a Great Britain Student international and he has played professionally with Batley Bulldogs and Rochdale.

Paul Hughes will be their man in the middle at Hooker, and has played for the Wakefield Wildcats, Hunslet, York and Dewsbury as a professional.