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US Eagles gets Kiwi boost

Wednesday 30th January 2008

Steve Tew: Looking to promote USA rugby

The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) has committed itself to promoting rugby in the United States of America, signing a formal agreement with USA Rugby.

The Memorandum of Understanding, which was signed on Wednesday, will see the two unions collaborating in areas ranging from community rugby to commercial development.

"The rugby world wants to see the game grow in the United States and we're taking concrete steps to help USA Rugby," said NZRU Chief Executive Steve Tew.

As a first step, the NZRU will give coaching curricula and resources to USA Rugby at no charge, thereby supporting the American Union's youth, referee and coach development programs.

As well as resources to grow participation at the community level, the agreement will also see the two Unions exploring opportunities for high-profile matches in the USA as well as an age-grade competition between the two nations.

"We welcome New Zealand's help as we work to tap the potential in the United States," said USA Rugby Chief Executive Nigel Melville.

"The coaching resources are an immediate benefit, but longer term we'd like to look at joint sponsorships, merchandise agreements and anything that can benefit both Unions."

The agreement, which takes effect immediately, is for five years.