The NOLA Gold Rugby Club is set to broaden its reach through a new broadcasting partnership with Gray Media. This agreement will air all 16 of the Gold’s home and away games for the 2025 season on the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, significantly expanding professional rugby coverage across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama. The team, a founding member of Major League Rugby (MLR), made history in 2024 by reaching the playoffs for the first time. This milestone has fueled their ambition to build on this success in the upcoming season. The partnership aims to bring professional rugby into millions of homes, making the sport more accessible and positioning it alongside major American sports like the NBA. This move underscores the rapid growth and strength of professional rugby in the USA.

Broadening Accessibility: Reaching Millions Across the Gulf Coast

The NOLA Gold Rugby Club's new broadcast deal marks a significant step in making professional rugby more accessible to fans. All 16 matches for the 2025 season will be aired on the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network, ensuring that viewers across Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama can enjoy the action. This network is available over the air in 14 television markets, including key cities like Baton Rouge, Shreveport, and Mobile. Additionally, GCSEN is accessible through various cable providers such as COX, Fubo, and Mediacom, further extending its reach. By broadcasting on free TV, the partnership brings professional rugby directly into the homes of millions, fostering a wider fan base and promoting the sport's growth.

The collaboration between NOLA Gold Rugby and Gray Media signifies a pivotal moment for rugby in the United States. Thierry Daupin, Chairman of NOLA Gold Rugby, emphasized the importance of this exposure in expanding the sport's footprint. With the inaugural match scheduled for February 15 against Anthem Rugby Carolina at the Shrine on Airline in Jefferson Parish, fans can anticipate an exciting season ahead. The accessibility of these broadcasts promises to inspire the next generation of rugby enthusiasts and players, positioning the sport alongside American sports heavyweights. This unprecedented exposure not only enhances the visibility of NOLA Gold but also strengthens the overall presence of professional rugby in the region.

Building Momentum: A Founding Member's Continued Success

NOLA Gold Rugby Club, a founding member of Major League Rugby (MLR), achieved a historic milestone in 2024 by qualifying for the playoffs for the first time. This accomplishment has set the stage for even greater achievements in the 2025 season. The team's commitment to excellence and growing popularity have paved the way for increased visibility through this new broadcasting partnership. The Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network will serve as a platform to showcase the team's skills and dedication, attracting new fans and supporters. This strategic move aims to build on the momentum from last year's success and solidify NOLA Gold's position in the league.

Mikel Schaefer, Vice President and General Manager of WVUE-TV, highlighted the excitement surrounding the partnership. Bringing the NOLA Gold to the Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network underscores the growing interest in rugby within the region. As one of 11 teams in MLR, NOLA Gold's journey reflects the rapid expansion of professional rugby in the USA. The team's success story serves as an inspiration to aspiring athletes and fans alike. By leveraging this expanded reach, NOLA Gold aims to cultivate a vibrant community of rugby enthusiasts, driving the sport's growth and popularity. The 2025 season promises to be a thrilling chapter in the club's history, with the potential to inspire future generations of rugby players and fans.