The American National Rugby League has announced the venue for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup Atlantic qualifiers. Jamaica, South Africa and the United States will compete in a week-long tournament with the winner earning the penultimate spot in the 14 nation, 2013 World Cup tournament in England and Wales.The games will take place at Campbell's Field in Camden, New Jersey, from October 15th-23rd with the teams facing each other over the course of three matches. Campbell's Field is a 6500-seat baseball stadium located directly across the Delaware River from downtown Philadelphia.
"We are excited to be able to host the Atlantic qualifiers in front of some the most passionate sports fans in the country," said David Niu, President and Founder of the AMNRL. "The matches will feature many of the game's elite players and will give fans here in the US some great rugby league action."
The United States and Jamaica will be looking to make history by earning its first ever birth in the Rugby League World Cup. "This is one of the most exciting phases in the development of our sport. These nations are trying to achieve their ultimate goal," said Niel Wood, organising the 2013 Rugby World Cup qualfiers. "David Niu and his team have worked tirelessly to bring this tournament to Philadelphia and it will usher in a great era for rugby league in the US."
The event will look to capitalize on the momentum generated by the Donnybrook Cup, Rugby Sevens Collegiate Championship and last year's AMNRL Grand Final and continue to establish Greater Philadelphia as a hotbed for the sport.
"This tournament will provide fans in the host nation the opportunity to watch some fiercely competitive matches with the ultimate prize at stake," added Richard Lewis, Executive Chairman of the Rugby Football League. "We wish Jamaica, South Africa and the USA the very best of luck and look forward to the winner advancing to the 2013 Rugby League World Cup Finals."
Tickets are now on sale and start at just $5 for children, $8 for students (with valid ID) and $10 for adults. Ticket packages for all three games are also available. Additional information about the event can be found via the event's Twitter feed - @RugbyWCQ or at http://www.RugbyWCQ.com