‘New kids on the block’: Professional rugby team to debut in Charlotte
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The Carolinas’ first professional rugby team will compete in their inaugural match this Sunday.
Anthem Rugby Carolina was announced as Major League Rugby’s 12th team just five weeks ago, and they’ll compete against other MLR teams in the 2024 season.
“It’s extremely exciting, obviously. It’s the first time MLR has come to Charlotte. It’s a really exciting prospect,” said team captain Jake Turnbull.
Though players and coaches expressed excitement about the new team, they’re also climbing an uphill battle. They’ve only had five weeks to practice together, and their first game will be against the reigning league champions.
“We realize it’s a big challenge. We’re playing the champs, obviously, and we’re the new kids on the block,” said head coach Alama Ieremia.
But being the underdogs has kept the fresh team from forming a unique bond.
“A lot of these guys, they’re young. They’re really hungry. Their whole DNA is just trying to bring grit,” said Turnbull. “Our backs are against the wall, and I think that’s a really fun place to be.”
Ieremia also coaches for the USA Eagles, the country’s national rugby team. He says part of the purpose of Anthem is to find and develop athletes to advance to the Eagles potentially.
“From our point of view, some of these players haven’t had a lot of rugby in their lives, so it’s important that we make sure it’s safe for them to play, but then also, it’s also about accelerating their learning about the game. And there’s no better way to learn than actually getting amongst it,” said Ieremia.
Until then, the team will focus on earning wins and increasing rugby’s fanbase in the Carolinas.
“For us, it’s really about connecting with the community, but most importantly, that we play well. We really need to play well to bring the fans in and play well for each other. Hopefully, our culture rubs off into the community and into the local fans here,” said Ieremia.
Anthem will host the New England Free Jacks at Memorial Stadium at 7 p.m. Sunday.
