The international rugby league scene in the United States looks different from today with the announcement that the national team will now be known as the Hawks. The major rebrand comes on the back of the US Association of Rugby League (USARL) becoming recognized by both the Rugby League International and European Federations as the new governing body for sport in the country.

USARL Director of Marketing, Steve Williams, commented, “The Hawk is a symbol of national pride, whose core traits of strength and speed are also motivated by an inherent desire to protect their flock, which we relate to in rugby league. The result is a stunning new logo that we believe will quickly become a fan favourite on the international stage.”

After the success of reaching the quarter finals of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup, the USARL is committed to providing a better pathway for American domestic players.

“The current administration has been actively working on implementing a new selection process that rewards and acknowledges USA players for their year’s efforts and performance,” commented Peter Illfield, chairman of the USARL. “The Hawks will become a symbol for both USA-based and key heritage players to be rewarded for their contribution and commitment to grow the sport.”

The USARL will be making further announcements on their coaching staff and 2015 international schedule in the coming weeks, which will include details of qualification games for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.