NEWS

MAJOR LEAGUE RUGBY LAUNCHES MLR 2020: VIRTUAL IN RESPONSE TO COVID-19 CRISIS

MLR turns suspension hiatus into opportunity to showcase rugby’s core values and keep the competition alive with virtual matches.

DALLAS  [March 17, 2020] – Major League Rugby (MLR) launches MLR 2020: Virtual, a gaming competition between teams on Rugby20 during the suspension hiatus, to be live streamed to fans on Twitch. In addition, MLR has partnered with the Feeding America COVID-19 Response Fund to allow fans to donate in support of food banks during the live streams.

While fans can be sure MLR will return #ToPlayAnotherDay, the MLR and its clubs respond to the suspension as an opportunity to showcase rugby’s dedication to supporting local communities and keeping the spirit of competition alive. All MLR teams will raise money for Feeding America’s COVID-19 Response Fund that is built to help food banks across the country during this challenging time. Fans who donate will be entered into Fan of the Match prize giveaways.

A tournament schedule (see below) has been created for the MLR teams to continue competition against one another in Rugby20 and live stream to fans. Fans will have the opportunity to engage with MLR teams during the live streams, win prizes, and get to know their favorite players. One player from each team will go head to head in the game, and additional teammates will host live commentary and communicate with fans on the streams.

“During the COVID-19 crisis, MLR is focused on doing what we can to support our communities. This a trying time for everybody, but the sports community, and the rugby community in particular, have always been known for picking each other up when we face adversity,” said MLR Commissioner George Killebrew, “We’re also excited that this virtual gaming format means we get to continue the competition among our teams in a way that engages our fan base more than ever before.”

The virtual matches are scheduled to kick off on MLR’s Twitch Channel on Friday, March 20. Stay tuned at MajorLeague.Rugby and all @USMLR social channels for additional updates.

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