Washington DC Cavalry have appointed USA international Ryan Burroughs as the founder/coach of their newly formed professional rugby league team.
The 29-year-old has scored 70 tries in 55 games for teams across the United States, Australia and the UK. The fullback-come-winger has also scored eight tries in just eight appearance for the USA international team and played in the 2017 World Cup.
Burroughs is no stranger to North American rugby league, having played for the Northern Virginia Eagles before joining Canadian team the Toronto Wolfpack for their inaugural season in 2017, where he scored the club’s first ever competitive try.
“It’s a dream come true being able to give some guys the opportunity to do what they’ve always wanted to do in the sport of rugby in either code, which is to play professional,” Burroughs said.
“My goal is to help as many young kids as I can get the chance to do what I did. I’m really excited for the opportunity with a fantastic club and I’m really looking forward to taking up the challenge.”
Washington DC Cavalry will compete in the North America Rugby League, formed initially of 6 teams around the east coast and Canada, with plans to expand to 14 teams in the next 3 years.
Burroughs is aware of the challenges that await him and the Cavalry when the season gets underway in June but believes that the mixture of experience and natural talent can make the Capital team real contenders.
He added: “The biggest thing is selecting a squad, having a good combination of both veterans and up and coming young talent.
“We are bringing in some guys who have been in and around the game a long time, who will not only give us the competitiveness in games but guys who can also help pass the torch for the younger generation coming through.
“People love to see big hits and big plays, and that is exactly what NARL is trying to achieve. I cannot wait to hit the ground running and hopefully win the league”.
Teams from across the USA and Canada will compete in three conferences – the East Coast Conference, the West Coast Conference and the Canada Cup.
All games will be broadcast on NARL’s exclusive online streaming partner Sportsflick.
The Cavalry’s Pro Combine will be taking place on March 27th, 12pm-5pm at Revolution Sportsplex for those looking to show their sporting ability and talent, with a chance to earn a spot on this years Cavalry roster.
