YORK Knights announced plans to take a Super League game to New York after revealing a scheme to bring the New York Knights out of five years’ hybernation.
Former York player Matt Duckworth will be the coach of the new side, with Yonkers resident George Reiss acting as general manager and captain.
“The New York Knights hold a special place in US rugby league history,” said York Knights owner Clint Goodchild, an Australian whose business career has been centred on the US.
“This revival honours that legacy while building genuine opportunities for American athletes and increasing the growth of the game in the US.
“On the back of the success we have seen through the NRL’s opening round in Las Vegas and the further ambition to create a Global Round in the near future we see this as an opportunity to do our part.
“While we are the new kids on the block in the Super League, we believe that rugby league truly is The Greatest Game of All and it belongs in one of the greatest cities of all.
“We are under no illusions that it will be a ground up building process for the New York Knights, but we are excited to support and guide it to success on and off the field.
“In years to come we will be looking at opportunities to take a Super League game to New York and continue to grow the following of the sport in North America.
“We have seen what the Sydney Roosters have achieved on the West Coast through their partnership with the LA Roosters and will be taking guidance from them on how best we can play a positive role in the continued growth of our great game.”
In a statement issued by York, Duckworth was quoted as saying: “This partnership with York RLFC will grow into a true transatlantic pathway, reaching the wider rugby league audience globally — because if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.”
The team will play in the Rugby League United competition. A combine will be held to find players in the coming weeks and social media accounts along with a website have been launched under the name newyorkrlfc.
Reiss added: “The reintroduction of the New York Knights is about more than just a team.
“It’s about reconnecting fans, growing the game, and creating a strong foundation for long-term success within the RLU.
“I am proud to be part of this journey and look forward to sharing more updates as the project develops.”