The Sydney Roosters were delighted to welcome the USA WheelHawks, the United States' Wheelchair Rugby League team, to Allianz Stadium as part of their visit to Australia for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Hosted by Sydney Roosters CEO and USARL Board member, Joe Kelly, the visit provided the American squad with a unique opportunity to explore the Club's world-class facilities and experience the proud history and traditions of one of rugby league's most established clubs.
The touring party enjoyed a behind-the-scenes look at Allianz Stadium, home of the Sydney Roosters, before visiting the Club's state-of-the-art Centre of Excellence.
Throughout the visit, Kelly shared insights into the Club's rich history, its connection to the local community and the values that have shaped the Roosters across generations.
The occasion also provided an opportunity to celebrate the continued growth of wheelchair rugby league and the important role the international game plays in making rugby league more accessible and inclusive.
With the 2026 Rugby League World Cup bringing together nations from across the globe, the visit highlighted the strong connections that exist within the rugby league community, extending well beyond the field of play.
The Sydney Roosters launched its Game Development Partnership Agreement with the USARL in 2024 and are the major contributor to funding Rugby League in the USA.
"Following the initiative from the NRL to take the season openers to Las Vegas from 2024, the Sydney Roosters wanted to show its support to grow the game in the most significant sports market in the world," Kelly said.
"With the Wheelhawks here representing their country at the World Cup, it was a great opportunity to meet the team and host them at our Centre of Excellence and showcase our home venue."
"The Wheelhawks team are the only USA Hawks team competing in this World Cup, but the USARL are working hard to be ready for the 2030 World Cup with its Men's and Women's Hawks teams as well following the recent announcement from the IRL to expand the competition in future," Kelly continued.
"This announcement is very exciting for those rugby league developing nations and there was also plenty of conversation and genuine excitement from our visitors this week that they could be playing games on home soil in 2030."
The Club was pleased to extend its hospitality to the American visitors and share an insight into the environment that supports its players, coaches and staff.
The Sydney Roosters thank the USA WheelHawks for their visit and wish the squad every success throughout their World Cup campaign, as they continue to inspire the next generation of athletes and contribute to the growth of the game internationally.
