The
Bulldogs are leading the pack when it comes to scouting talent in North America. Canterbury CEO Aaron Warburton and director Andrew Gifford recently attended the
NRL Las Vegas 9s to identify potential recruits for a future
NRLW team.
It was amazing to witness the level of talent at the Nines tournament. We are thrilled by the passion and skill displayed by players from the USA and Canada,” expressed Warburton. The
Bulldogs are determined to secure an
NRLW license soon and are impressed by the development of the game in North America.
During the tournament, Chicago North Shore centre Nira Fowler captured the attention of scouts, earning an invitation to the
NRL Combine. Fowler, a former rugby union player, is eager to prove herself on the
rugby league stage and is excited at the prospect of joining the
NRLW ranks.
Former NFL player Cyrus Habibi-Likio also stood out at the Vegas 9s and secured a spot at the
NRL Combine. Habibi-Likio, with a background in college football with the University of Oregon, is intrigued by the challenge of
rugby league and is keen to test his skills at the highest level.
Ex-
NRL star
Bryson Goodwin, now involved with Pacific Sports Management, commended the talent showcased at the tournament. Goodwin observed that the players demonstrated great potential and will only improve with further exposure to the game. There is optimism surrounding the growth of
rugby league in North America.
Bulldogs‘ director Andrew Gifford commended the
NRL for expanding the game to North America and opening the 2024 season in Las Vegas. Gifford acknowledged the wealth of talent in the region and believes that
rugby league is on the brink of a significant breakthrough in North America. The future looks promising for the sport in the region.
