Rugby Belize has taken another step forward in their administrative ambitions with their acceptance as full members of the Belize Olympic and Commonwealth Games Association. The decision opens the door for possible inclusion in the two major sporting events and also to consideration for World Rugby membership. A memo to Rugby Belize founder Tony Gillings dated March 27 confirmed the news.
“After an executive meeting held on Wednesday, March 22, the Committee has agreed to approve your request for Rugby Belize to be officially affiliated with the Belize Olympic & Commonwealth Games Association. In this regard, the Belize Olympic Committee will recognize Rugby Belize as its National Governing Body.”
The sport broke ground in 2016 with its first event at Orange Walk Town. Located on the east coast of Central America, Belize has a population of 370,000 and finds rugby-playing neighbors in Mexico, Guatemala, and Honduras.