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Professional rugby is headed to Kansas City. Already revealed as one of the founding members of Major League Rugby, a new competition kicking off in 2018, the Blues have now unveiled a new logo, website, and social media presence outlining their plans.
While the Kansas City Blues as a club side have existed since 1966, the new professional arm will act independently of the amateur club but retain the name for branding purposes. This appears to be the model for the other MLR sides, with six of the inaugural 10 franchises springing from associations with rich amateur origins. Rugby Utah and the Houston Strikers are effectively new entities, while the Glendale Raptors from Colorado and Griffins Rugby from Allen, Texas, are a relatively new organizations emerging in 2006 and 2008 respectively.
The one-page splash sheet at kcbluesrugby.com includes an invitation to the first ‘Blues Professional Rugby Supporters Event’ on May 17, as well as links to newly created social media accounts. Also present is an introduction to the organization.
“Blues Rugby Management, LLC is introducing a Club rich in tradition to a passionate local sports market, launching and operating the first professional Major League Rugby team in America’s Heartland – the Kansas City Blues.
Built upon the 50-year history of one of America’s most successful Clubs that includes multiple Final 4 appearances in 15s and 7s and 10 capped USA Eagles, the professional organization will energize the grass roots rugby community in Kansas City while becoming relevant in the broader commercial sports market through innovative brand-building and an unmatched fan experience.”
