Manly Sea Eagles CEO Scott Penn has expressed interest in buying a stake in the proposed National Rugby League (NRL) expansion into the United States. He also suggested current Manly captain Daly Cherry-Evans could serve as the “face” of the new US-based league.
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Penn open to buying stake in US team
Penn said he is open to exploring affiliate links between Manly and a potential franchise called the New York Eagles. The Eagles would be part of a 10-team “NRL America” competition starting as early as 2025.
While noting any investment would need to make financial sense, Penn said Manly could use the US team to give opportunities to players later in their careers. He cited Cherry-Evans as someone who could take on an ambassadorial role in the US after retirement from the NRL.
Daly Cherry-Evans as potential star of new league
At 35 years old, Cherry-Evans’ current Manly contract runs out next year. This would time well with the reported 2025 launch of NRL America.
Steve Scanlan, head of the Rugby League America consortium behind the proposed US league, said Cherry-Evans is the prototype of the type of “poster boy” player they want to sign. The idea would be for the veteran NRL star to help mentor younger American athletes new to the sport.
Penn agreed Cherry-Evans could serve as the face of a US rugby league team, similar to David Beckham’s role in growing interest in soccer.
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While plans are in early stages, landing investments from figures like Penn would be a major boost to NRL America. The league has already sold three team licences and continues talks with NRL leadership.
Published 01-March-2024
