Americas Rugby News Rugby news from across the Americas!
The Women’s Premier League has been hit with a double-whammy in the space of days. Following suit with other sporting competitions around the USA, the league has suspended the start of the 2020 season due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Originally slated to begin on August 29, it’s now unclear when the competition can begin. A public statement from the league confirmed that discussions are taking place to resume based on World Rugby and public health return-to-play guidelines. The goal is to return in time to best support the USA’s preparations for Rugby World Cup 2021.
At the same time it has been revealed that the City of Glendale has pulled all support for the Women’s Premier League and Women’s Division 1 sides. Originally reported by Wendy Young of YSC Rugby, the news comes as a surprise to players and staff. Glendale Merlins were the 2019 WPL Champions and the home of numerous USA internationals.
It’s another blow to Glendale rugby. Earlier this year the Colorado Raptors were pulled from Major League Rugby. Housed at Glendale’s Infinity Park, the apparent demise of both the Raptors and the Women’s program leaves only the Men’s club and youth teams.
Meanwhile it’s understood that negotiations are ongoing between the City and cash-strapped USA Rugby regarding the possible housing of the national organization’s office among other items including training potential test matches. It remains to be seen what rugby takes place at Infinity Park in 2021.
