LAS VEGAS – Wests Tigers rookie Heamasi Makasini is drawing international attention, with the potential to represent the United States in rugby league, according to reports emerging from the NRL’s Las Vegas season opener. The 18-year-old winger, who made his NRL debut last season, is eligible for the US through his parents and is being targeted by the American national team as they build towards the 2030 World Cup, slated to be held in Las Vegas.
Makasini’s emergence has been rapid. He impressed during pre-season trials, scoring three tries against the Sydney Roosters and earning praise for a try against Penrith described as a potential “Try of the Year” contender. His potential arrival on the scene in Las Vegas next year could provide a significant marketing boost for the sport in the United States, particularly if the Wests Tigers are among the teams selected to play in the annual NRL fixture.
Former NRL prop Adam Woolnough, recently appointed head coach of the US national team, confirmed he is actively pursuing players eligible for the squad. “I’ve got a list of about a dozen players,” Woolnough told Fox Sports. “And so right now, I’m speaking with clubs, agents and players about that eligibility. And already, three or four players have confirmed they are keen to play.”
Woolnough, who has spent the last decade in sports administration, most recently as General Manager of Ice Hockey Australia, has a two-year contract with Team USA. He is aiming to build a competitive squad, currently ranked 22nd in the world, through a program of regular international matches. The US intends to play up to six internationals annually against Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and France in preparation for the 2030 World Cup.
Several players with NRL experience have previously represented the USA Hawks, including Ronaldo Mulitalo, Daniel Vidot, Joseph Paulo, Eddy Pettybourne, Junior Vaivai, Mark Offerdahl and Bureta Faraimo. Vidot arrived in Las Vegas on Saturday ahead of the US team’s match against Scotland at Coronado High School on Friday night.
The influx of NRL talent comes as the league continues its expansion into the American market. Canterbury Bulldogs backrower Viliame Kikau noted the advantage his team gained by arriving in Las Vegas two days before their rivals, the St George Illawarra Dragons, utilizing the Raiders’ facilities for acclimatization and training. Kikau also commented on the prevalence of gambling opportunities on the Las Vegas strip.
Meanwhile, Dragons player Kyle Flanagan reportedly faced a significant expense after losing a conditioning game during training, being required to pay for coffee for his teammates at a rate of approximately US$15 per cup. The Dragons were seen visiting Omnia nightclub to see DJ Steve Aoki perform over the weekend.
North Queensland Cowboys centre Jaxon Purdue, the youngest member of his squad, has been assigned the role of team speaker carrier. Purdue, making his first trip outside of Australia, is focused on bringing consistency to his game in 2026.
Newcastle players had an encounter with former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland while training at the UFC Performance Institute. The Bulldogs also crossed paths with UFC featherweight challenger Diego Lopes.
