Press Release 02.08.18

City of Houston sign off on a New Rugby Stadium in deal with Major League Rugby Team Houston SaberCats

City Council inked a $3.2 million deal that paves the way for the Houston SaberCats to build a 3,500-seat stadium.

Houston, Texas – February 8, 2018 – The SaberCats, one of seven teams in the newly-formed Major League Rugby (MLR) league,  has received approval from the Houston City Council to proceed with building a new stadium and related facilities at the Houston Amateur Sports, along Texas 288 south of downtown Houston.  The team hopes to have the stadium ready in time for the beginning of its 2019 season in January.

“We are excited to begin building our permanent home.  A place where we can bring our fans close to the action so they can enjoy this exciting sport of Rugby.  The future home of the SaberCats will serve well both those that already love the game and the many that will fall in love with Houston’s professional rugby.  Go ‘Cats ! “  –  said Mike Loya,  lead investor for the SaberCats organization.

Houston has a growing community of rugby clubs and fans, and the city hosted several semi-professional teams throughout the years. Rugby is the fastest growing team sport in the U.S.  –  Major League Rugby and the SaberCats are looking to reward those fans with a world-class play and attract new fans in the process. MLR has teams in Austin, New Orleans, Seattle, San Diego, Salt Lake City & Glendale with several other cities expressing interest in the league.

SaberCats President, Brian Colona added –   “The SaberCats are thrilled to have received City Council’s approval to proceed with the new stadium project at the Houston Sports Park.  We thank Mayor Turner and his staff as well as the members of the City Council for their assistance in structuring an agreement that will result in a much-needed addition to the City’s existing infrastructure. 

As important as it is to add a stadium of this size to Houston’s portfolio,  the ability to provide a base for community and youth programs for rugby, other sports, and general community outreach is equally important.   Even without a place to call home,  the SaberCats are already out in the community teaching and coaching at several schools and hosting area-wide combines in an effort to help young players and their coaches make the game enjoyable and safe for everyone involved.  With this stadium,  which will have 3 fields,  the SaberCats will have a place to expand our engagement with the community and create a fantastic experience for everyone across the City of Houston. “

The SaberCats currently are playing the inaugural season at Sugar Land’s Constellation Field through March 3rd. There are 4 games left in the first season, we invite Houston to come out and get into the action with your Houston SaberCats. The 2018 Major League Rugby Season starts in April. Get Tickets at www.HoustonSaberCats.com

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About Houston SaberCats

The Houston SaberCats Rugby are a Major League Rugby team based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2017 for the purpose of competing in the United States’ new national professional league. Along with Head Coach Justin Fitzpatrick, Assistant Coach Sam Windsor and Academy Director Matt Trouville, the team began recruiting for its inaugural season in 2017 and will play their first season of matches in spring of 2018.

For Media Inquiries Contact: Anna Munoz email: [email protected] • phone: 832-265-8157