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USA Rugby Gears Up for Pacific Nations Cup, Eyes 2031 World Cup
Denver — May 17, 2024 — The United States is preparing to host the Pacific Nations Cup, crucial for 2031 Rugby World Cup planning. The international rugby union competition will feature matches in Denver, Salt Lake City, and Sacramento. The event is a pivotal step toward improving the nation’s rugby infrastructure and competitive readiness. Further developments are to come.
USA Rugby Gears Up for Pacific Nations Cup, Eyes 2031 World Cup
The United states is set to host a significant portion of the Pacific Nations cup (PNC), a move seen as crucial preparation for the 2031 Rugby world Cup. This event marks a pivotal step in enhancing the nation’s rugby infrastructure adn competitive readiness.
Host Cities and Key Dates
while Salt Lake City will host the final championship games, the PNC extends its reach across multiple U.S. locations:
- Salt Lake City, Utah: America First Field will host the 3rd/4th place game and the final, both scheduled for Sept. 20.
- Denver, Colorado: Dick’s Sporting goods Park is set to host the two semifinal matches and the 5th-6th place playoff game.
- Sacramento, California: Heart Health Park will host a match between Japan and the USA.
Did You No?
The Pacific Nations Cup is an international rugby union competition contested by teams from around the Pacific Rim. it serves as a vital platform for these nations to develop their rugby programs and compete at a high level.
Global Reach of the PNC
The Pacific Nations Cup isn’t confined to the United States. Games will also be held in:
- Nuku’alofa, Tonga
- Calgary, Alberta (USA vs. Canada)
- Suva, Fiji
- Sendai, Japan
- Rotorua, New Zealand
Logistical Challenges and Preparations
Hosting multiple teams requires extensive logistical planning, especially in Denver and Salt lake City. This includes securing accommodations, training facilities, and ensuring world-class venues.
I think number one is having a pitch that is world-class, So we know that the players are going to be safe and the game’s going to have its integrity.
USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren
Working with stadiums in the 20,000-seat range is considered a strategic move for these events, balancing capacity with atmosphere.
Pro Tip:
For fans planning to attend, booking accommodations and transportation well in advance is highly recommended. These events draw significant crowds, and early planning can ensure a smoother experience.
Utah’s Growing Rugby Profile
Utah is emerging as a significant rugby hub,thanks to the efforts of local organizations and successful events. Bill Goren, USA Rugby CEO, emphasized the importance of groundwork laid by the Utah Warriors and previous international matches:
This event wouldn’t be coming to Utah if Kimball [Kjar, Utah Warriors CEO] and his group had not already shown the success with the MLR; if Toulouse didn’t play USA [almost] two years ago; if the events weren’t coming here already to set in the groundwork, This is now a major event rationing up the level of testing the boundaries of the stadium, the city, and the state to see what could possibly come in the future.
USA Rugby CEO Bill Goren
Former Eagle Matt Jensen, an All-American from BYU, highlighted the favorable timing of the event in Utah:
September is a fantastic time of year in Utah, It’s cooling off from the summer; it’s one of my favorite parts of the year.
Former Eagle Matt Jensen
This sentiment underscores Utah’s appeal as a host location for major rugby events.
