The Sydney Roosters are thrilled to announce their participation in the launch of the United States Association of Rugby League (USARL) Game Development Fund.
The USARL Game Development Fund, funded by the Sydney Roosters as part of their partnership commitment, supports affiliated leagues and clubs in their efforts to develop, promote, and expand Rugby League within their local regions. The fund is designed to support initiatives that not only increase the sport's visibility but also deepen community engagement.
Matt Goschnick, USARL Chair, and Joe Kelly, Sydney Roosters CEO and USARL Board Member, both highlighted the critical role that funding plays in advancing Rugby League across the United States.
The success of many programs often hinges on securing adequate funding
Matt Goschnick USARL Chair
"By providing essential financial support to our affiliated clubs and organisations, we aim to empower them to establish sustainable initiatives that enhance community engagement, increase awareness, and improve education. Ultimately, this will make Rugby League more accessible to a broader audience across the United States and drive the sport's growth at the grassroots level. We recognise the dedication of our leagues and clubs, along with the challenges they face in advancing Rugby League, and we're excited to provide this and any other support where we can. The Game Development Fund is a key part of our commitment to helping clubs grow the game and build lasting, sustainable programs that engage communities and create new opportunities for participation."
Joe Kelly, added:
"The Sydney Roosters, as the Game Development Partner of the USARL, are delighted to see some of our annual financial contribution being directed to a broad array of activities that will assist the participation and growth of Rugby League across the U.S., importantly at a grassroots level. This includes our support of the development of coaches and referees, who are essential as Rugby League evolves and participation numbers increase."
Key Objectives of the USARL Game Development Fund:
- Increase Awareness: Expand the visibility of Rugby League through local events, outreach programs, and partnerships that introduce the sport to new and diverse audiences.
- Education: Provide resources to enhance player development, coaching education, and referee accreditation, ensuring improved skills and a stronger understanding of the game. This includes support for certification opportunities for coaches and referees.
- Participation: Boost involvement across all age groups and skill levels, from youth development initiatives to adult leagues, creating pathways for growth in Rugby League.
- Sustainable Growth: Support the creation of community-based programs focused on long-term development, ensuring lasting impacts that strengthen Rugby League's presence in local areas.
The Game Development Fund will enable member and affiliate clubs, schools, and community organisations to apply for grants that align with these objectives. By empowering local groups, the fund seeks to broaden the reach of Rugby League and promote its long-term sustainability nationwide.
Application Details:
- Who Can Apply: USARL-affiliated Rugby Leagues and clubs, schools, and community organisations.
- Application Period: Opens November 1, 2024, and closes January 28, 2025.
- Assessment: Applications will be individually assessed by a panel. Approved applicants will be notified in writing and will be required to meet the grant acquittal process.
- Acquittal: All approved applicants must provide a full accounting of how the granted funds were used, as part of the grant acquittal process.
