USARL Official Statement Regarding the Men’s National Championship

Jacksonville, FL, 8.20.24 – The US Association of Rugby League (USARL) wishes to inform its members and the Rugby League community that Utah Rugby League Association notified the Domestic Competitions Chair late Sunday of their decision to withdraw the Provo Broncos from the National Championship Game.

Prior to Utah’s withdrawal, the USARL made every reasonable attempt to ensure the fixture proceeded and worked diligently with DC & Utah Rugby League Association on behalf of the Provo Broncos. DC complied within the prescribed timeframes and Utah Rugby League did not despite receiving numerous extensions to provide proof of player eligibility. The Board granted a final extension with a deadline Sunday afternoon.

Utah Rugby League submitted information which was assessed based on the paperwork that was submitted against their team list in line with the rules and procedures followed, they were provided a list of eligible players for selection which exceeded the minimum requirement for a match to go ahead.  Subsequently, Utah Rugby League Association informed USARL of their decision for the Provo Broncos to not participate in the fixture.

As a result, the board has awarded the 2024 Men’s National Championship to the DC Cavalry.

While the USARL is disappointed by Utah Rugby League’s decision to withdraw the Provo Broncos from the game, we look forward to the off-season during which time we will continue to evaluate and adapt our domestic competition rules to serve our teams and players in the best way possible and continue to build the great sport of rugby league here in the US.

For All Media Inquiries Contact:

Dustin Zerrer

Email: This email has been obfuscated.

Phone: +1 425.951.0458

About USARL:

The United States Association of Rugby League Inc. (USARL) is the national governing body of Rugby League in the United States of America, as sanctioned by the International Rugby League (IRL). The USARL is dedicated to promoting and developing the sport of Rugby League at all levels in the USA. The USARL oversees various competitions, including Men, Women, Youth and Wheelchair Rugby League, providing opportunities for players and communities of all ages and abilities to participate and enjoy our great sport. The pinnacle of our sport for the players in the USA is to be selected in the USA Hawks National Rugby League Team. USARL aims to grow Rugby League by maintaining high standards of governance, performance, pathways and education for and with all our stakeholders.