Revival of New York Knights signals a new chapter for Rugby League in the Big Apple

Rugby League in New York is being revived, in partnership with British Betfred Super League club, York RLFC.

The move marks more than just the return of an iconic American rugby league brand. It also signals a shift in the sport’s ambitions in the United States.

After being inactive for more than five years, the New York Knights will re-enter the USARL competition in 2026 through the RLU Conference, which includes the current National Championship winning Brooklyn Kings.

York RLFC becomes the first Super League organisation to formally partner with a team inside the American domestic system, a move seen as a long-awaited bridge between the US game and Super League.

Former York RLFC player Matt Duckworth will lead the project as Head Coach alongside George Reiss as General Manager and Player/Coach. Matt is an experienced coach known for developing crossover athletes and shaping high-performance cultures across Rugby League. Matt and George will oversee an open combine in the coming months as a part of the process to select the club’s 2026 player roster.

Duckworth says, “I’ve been in the United States since 2012 but have remained heavily involved in the game and carry enormous passion for it. I’ve also had the privilege of playing with and working alongside George. We know this is going to take time and we’re comfortable with the organic growth timeline required.

"Our priority is building a true home for the Knights here in New York. That starts with earning player buy-in, creating standards, and building the right culture from day one. We also need to create strategic partnerships with local sponsors to sustain the level of growth required.

“Ultimately, we want to give more Americans the opportunity to experience rugby league on the world stage once they have the solid foundation we are committed to building here in New York.

"This partnership with York RLFC will grow into a true transatlantic pathway, reaching the wider rugby league audience globally — because if you can make it in New York, you can make it anywhere.”

Reiss added, “I am thrilled to announce an exciting new collaboration with York RLFC and to again work with Matt Duckworth to support the return of the New York Knights to the RLU.

“This partnership represents a significant step forward in reviving an iconic brand and expanding the reach and profile of rugby league. Working alongside such passionate and experienced individuals and organisations is a tremendous opportunity, and I am incredibly excited about what we can build together.

“The reintroduction of the New York Knights is about more than just a team. It’s about reconnecting fans, growing the game, and creating a strong foundation for long-term success within the RLU. I am proud to be part of this journey and look forward to sharing more updates as the project develops.”

The significance of the revival is reflected in the response from league officials.

Chris Martin, USARL board member, RLU President and former New York Knights player, describes the moment as transformative.

“York RLFC’s involvement brings professionalism and stability that American rugby league has needed for years,” Martin said.

“It strengthens the entire pathway for players and coaches. I played for the original New York Knights for many years, so to see the Knights back and competing again means a great deal to me personally.

"We are incredibly proud and happy to welcome them back into the competition, and we believe their return is an important moment for rugby league in the United States.”

For York RLFC Chairman Clint Goodchild, the revival is rooted in both heritage and opportunity.

“The New York Knights hold a special place in US rugby league history. This revival honours that legacy while building genuine opportunities for American athletes and increasing the growth of the game in the US. On the back of the success, we have seen through the NRL’s opening round in Las Vegas and the further ambition to create a Global Round in the near future we see this as an opportunity to do our part.

"While we are the new kids on the block in the Super League, we believe that Rugby League truly is The Greatest Game of All and it belongs in one of the greatest cities of all. We are under no illusions that it will be a ground up building process for the New York Knights, but we are excited to support and guide it to success on and off the field.

“Rugby 7s at Sports Illustrated Stadium proved that the region can host world-class international Rugby events. In years to come we will be looking at opportunities to take a Super League game to New York and continue to grow the following of the sport in North America.

"We have seen what the Sydney Roosters have achieved on the West Coast through their partnership with the LA Roosters and will be taking guidance from them on how best we can play a positive role in the continued growth of our great game.”

In the coming weeks the New York Knights will be sharing further details on how to sign up for the combine, announcing commercial and community partnerships, player signing announcements and unveiling the official teamwear range.

"There will also be a number of scheduled non-match day events aimed at reconnecting past New York Knights players, supporters and officials to celebrate the relaunch of a proud and historic club.

Please connect and follow the New York Knights Social platforms @NewYorkRLFC and check our Website for exciting news and updates www.newyorkrlfc.com.

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