US Eagle Rugby Star Sammy Sullivan Discusses Growth of Sport

Olympic athlete and army captain talks about rugby's rising popularity in America ahead of major tournament in New York.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:54am

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Sammy Sullivan, a US national rugby team player and Olympic medalist, discusses the growing popularity of rugby in the United States as top teams arrive in New York for a major international rugby sevens tournament this weekend. Sullivan, who also serves as an army captain, shares her unique story and perspective on the sport's search for the spotlight in America.

Why it matters

Rugby has long struggled to gain mainstream popularity in the United States compared to sports like American football, basketball, and baseball. However, with the sport's inclusion in the Olympics and increasing grassroots participation, there are signs that rugby is starting to gain more traction, especially among younger athletes.

The details

As a member of the US national rugby team, the "US Eagles", Sammy Sullivan has seen firsthand the growth of the sport in America. She has competed in the Olympics and now also serves as an army captain, bringing a uniquely American perspective to the sport. With top international rugby sevens teams descending on New York this weekend for a major tournament, Sullivan discusses rugby's rising profile and her own journey in the sport.

  • The World Rugby Sevens Series tournament is taking place in New York this weekend (March 14-16, 2026).

The players

Sammy Sullivan

A member of the US national rugby team, the "US Eagles", who has competed in the Olympics and also serves as an army captain.

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What they’re saying

“Rugby is growing in America and it's an exciting time for the sport. We're starting to get more attention and respect, especially among younger athletes.”

— Sammy Sullivan, US Eagle Rugby Player and Army Captain (The Guardian)

What’s next

The World Rugby Sevens Series tournament in New York this weekend will provide a high-profile platform to showcase the growth of rugby in the United States.

The takeaway

As a rising Olympian and army officer, Sammy Sullivan's story highlights how rugby is gaining a foothold in American sports culture, offering a uniquely homegrown pathway for athletes to achieve success on the international stage.