As the Utah Warriors gear up for their eighth season in Major League Rugby (MLR), the team is eager to bounce back from last year’s 5-11 record and make a statement in the growing league.
“We’ve got a lot of new faces this season, but it’s a great opportunity to learn from different styles and experiences,” said fullback Sione Mahe.
Head coach Greg Cooper, now in his third year with the team, acknowledged last season’s challenges and emphasized the team’s focus on identity and competitiveness.
“It didn’t go the way we wanted last year,” Cooper admitted. “We’ve put in the work to define our identity and bring in the right players to align with it. This is a team that is ready to compete.”
Utah’s Role in Rugby’s Growth in the U.S.
With the Rugby World Cup coming to the United States in 2031, MLR has seen significant expansion. The league has grown from seven teams at its inception to 11 teams this season, positioning Utah as a key hub for the sport.
“I truly believe Utah is becoming a focal point for rugby in the U.S.,” Cooper said. “The MLR is getting stronger every year, and after 2031, the sport is going to explode here. Utah has a solid foundation to become a powerhouse in American rugby.”
Utah’s reputation has spread internationally, attracting players from countries like New Zealand, Samoa, and Ireland. Among them is second-row player Gavin Thornbury from Ireland, who was drawn to the Warriors by the team’s growth and passionate fan base.
“I heard about the strong rugby culture here, the incredible fans, and how much the sport is growing,” Thornbury said. “That got me excited, and I’m looking forward to experiencing it firsthand.”
Diverse Roster Brings Global Influence
The Warriors’ roster features players from eight different countries, each bringing their own unique style to the game.
“Growing up playing rugby in Utah, the style was all about physicality—whoever was the biggest and strongest usually won,” Mahe said. “But playing with international players has really opened my eyes to the technical side of the game.”
Thornbury echoed this sentiment, noting the team’s strong physical presence. “That’s what makes rugby so exciting here,” he said. “The intensity and physicality are exceptional.”
Fan Support Reaches New Heights
The Warriors have seen record-breaking support from their fans, averaging 4,250 attendees per game at Zions Bank Stadium last season, the highest in franchise history.
“Looking up and seeing the fans cheering my name is an incredible feeling,” Mahe shared. “The support has grown so much.”
Cooper also praised the Warriors’ dedicated fan base. “Our supporters are second to none,” he said. “We’re incredibly fortunate to have them.”
Upcoming Matches
The Warriors will open the 2025 season on February 23rd with an away game against Chicago, followed by their home opener on March 1st against New Orleans.
With a renewed focus and an influx of international talent, the Utah Warriors are ready to take on the new season with high expectations.
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