When it comes to rugby, USA and Hong Kong may not be the first countries that come to mind. However, both nations have a rich rugby history and are making strides in the sport. In this article, we'll compare the rugby scenes in USA and Hong Kong, including their histories, current standings, and future prospects.
History of Rugby in USA
Rugby was first introduced to the United States in the mid-19th century, but it wasn't until the 1970s that the sport began to gain popularity. Today, rugby is played throughout the country, with the USA Rugby organization overseeing the sport at all levels. The US national rugby team, known as the Eagles, has been competing internationally since the 1970s.
History of Rugby in Hong Kong
Rugby has a long history in Hong Kong, dating back to the early 20th century. The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union was founded in 1952, and the Hong Kong Sevens tournament has been held annually since 1976. The Hong Kong national rugby team, known as the Dragons, has been competing internationally since the 1980s.
Current Standings
Currently, the USA national rugby team is ranked 16th in the world by World Rugby, while the Hong Kong national rugby team is ranked 23rd. However, both teams have been making strides in recent years, with the USA Eagles winning the Americas Rugby Championship in 2017 and Hong Kong qualifying for the 2019 Rugby World Cup.
Future Prospects
Both USA and Hong Kong have ambitious plans for the future of rugby in their countries. In the USA, there is a growing interest in rugby at the grassroots level, with more and more young players taking up the sport. The USA Rugby organization has also set a goal of qualifying for the Rugby World Cup by 2027. In Hong Kong, there is a focus on developing local talent and expanding the sport's reach in Asia. The Hong Kong Rugby Football Union has set a goal of qualifying for the Rugby World Cup by 2023.
Conclusion
While the rugby scenes in USA and Hong Kong may not be as well-known as those in countries like New Zealand or South Africa, both nations have a strong passion for the sport and are working hard to develop it further. Whether you're a fan of the Eagles or the Dragons, it's exciting to see the progress being made in both countries and the potential for rugby to continue to grow in the future.
