In a groundbreaking move, Major League Rugby (MLR) has teamed up with indie film financier Goldfinch to produce a comprehensive docu-series that will provide an all-access look into the world of American rugby. This unprecedented ten-year commitment is set to capture the growth and development of the sport in the U.S. through a lens that has never been seen before. The first season, titled “Stars, Stripes and Scrums: The American Rugby Journey,” is currently in production and will showcase the Chicago Hounds team, as well as delve into rugby at all levels across the country.
The rise of all-access sports team documentaries has become a popular trend in the world of unscripted television in recent years. With the success of productions like Netflix’s “Six Nations: Full Contact” and Prime Video’s “Mud, Sweat and Tears: Premiership Rugby,” it is clear that there is a significant interest in showcasing the inner workings of sports teams and leagues. The collaboration between MLR and Goldfinch comes at a pivotal moment for rugby in the U.S., as the country is gearing up to host the 2031 Men’s and 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cups.
Phil McKenzie, representing Goldfinch, expressed his excitement for the project, highlighting the unique opportunity to document the journey of rugby in America as it reaches a historic inflection point. With the vision to capture every layer of the sport, McKenzie sees the MLR and the Chicago Hounds as the perfect subjects to explore the rise of rugby in the U.S. up to the upcoming Rugby World Cups in 2031 and 2033. The series aims to provide a behind-the-scenes look at the most exciting sport in the world as it gains traction in one of the most vibrant sports markets, the USA.
Producer Julian Oliver emphasized the significance of the ten-year commitment to showcasing the stories of young athletes who are at the forefront of American sporting history. The collaboration between Goldfinch and MLR is not just about documenting the sport but also highlighting the unique narrative of the Chicago Hounds, their fans, and the filmmakers who share in the passion for rugby. This series presents a rare opportunity to capture special moments that originate from the intense dedication of players, coaches, and management within the MLR.
Peter Bernick, owner of the Chicago Hounds, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, recognizing the potential for the team to compete for a championship in the rapidly evolving MLR. As new clubs from Miami, Los Angeles, and Charlotte, North Carolina join the league, the landscape of rugby in the U.S. is expanding, paving the way for more exciting developments in the years leading up to the World Cups. The collaboration between MLR and Goldfinch signifies a new era for American rugby, one that will be documented and celebrated for years to come.