English Premiership Side Harlequins Announces Partnership With USA Rugby

English Premiership side Harlequins confirmed that it entered into a strategic partnership with USA Rugby to help grow the game in one of the sport's fastest growing markets. Harlequins CEO David Ellis said, “This is a significant day for Harlequins as we announce our long term plans for our involvement with rugby in the United States. ... The bedrock of this ambition is strong community programs, from youth to college to club, as well as the development of a strong professional game to capture and nurture the fabulous athletes that are prevalent across America." The partnership will enable the continuing development of rugby union in America, assisting the sport’s governing body to bridge the gap between the amateur and professional games as well as supporting player pathways for all age groups. A key focus will be on augmenting the sport at grassroots level and developing the professional game across both 7s and 15s in men’s and women’s rugby (Harlequins).