Canada’s lone representative in Major League Rugby, the Toronto Arrows, is set to sit out the 2024 season, raising concerns about the team’s future viability.
Players were notified of this decision in a recent call, citing insufficient funding and setbacks that prevent the team from participating in the 2024 season. The announcement comes at a time of ongoing challenges for the Arrows, marked by a disappointing 1-13-2 record in the 2023 season, plagued by injuries and a 13-game losing streak.
The departure of Coach Peter Smith in July and the untimely passing of President and General Partner Bill Webb added to the team’s woes. Despite Bill Webb’s wish for the Arrows to continue thriving, the club faced difficulties, with seven other co-owners involved.
Australian Stephen Meehan took over as the Arrows’ coach in late October, indicating efforts to revitalize the team. However, the recent news of the team’s hiatus is a setback for Rugby Canada, given the Arrows’ role as a talent pipeline and home for Canadian national team players.
The Arrows, with a record of 29-38-2 over five seasons, had a promising start in 2019, finishing third overall. The team faced challenges due to COVID-related restrictions, moving to the United States in 2021 and returning to Canada in 2022.
The demise of the Toronto Arrows follows the trend of uncertainty in Major League Rugby, with teams like the Atlanta franchise relocating to Los Angeles. The league also faced challenges with the folding of the Los Angeles Giltinis and Austin Gilgronis in the 2023 season.
The absence of the Arrows from the league is another blow to Toronto sports, joining the Toronto Wolfpack, who faced setbacks and financial issues in the transatlantic rugby league.
The future of the Arrows remains uncertain, and the impact on Rugby Canada and the local sports scene is significant. The league, with plans for the Miami Sharks to join, will need to navigate these challenges to ensure the continued growth and success of professional rugby in North America.
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