Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly Appointed as Independent Director to USA Rugby League Board

The Sydney Roosters have made a significant move in the world of rugby league with the appointment of their Group CEO, Joe Kelly, as an Independent Director to the USA Rugby League (USARL) Board. This announcement comes as the USARL has been making strides in expanding the game of rugby league in the United States.

The USARL has recently established a new Board of Directors with a focus on creating pathways and opportunities for people to play and become involved in rugby league in the US. This has led to the organization becoming eligible to apply for Full Membership with the International Rugby League (IRL) for the first time in its history.

With plans in place to make the Men’s team eligible for the Rugby League World Cup and the Women’s team scheduled to play qualifiers for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, the game of rugby league in the US is on the rise. In 2024, rugby league competitions in the US will expand across four regions, with close to 40 teams expected to participate – an 81% increase from the previous year.

Joe Kelly expressed his excitement about the opportunity to contribute to the growth of rugby league in the US through his appointment to the USARL Board. He highlighted the enormous potential for rugby league in the US sporting market and the opportunity to recruit American players into the Sydney Roosters’ elite Academy and Pathways program.

Sydney Roosters Chairman, Nick Politis AM, also emphasized the importance of connecting with rugby league in the United States and the potential for collaboration between the two governing bodies to grow the game. With Joe Kelly’s leadership and strategic insight, the Sydney Roosters are looking forward to supporting the growth and success of rugby league in the US.