The rugby potential of the United States has often been underestimated, earning the country the moniker of a “sleeping giant.” However, Alama Ieremia, the former Samoa and Auckland head coach, is determined to awaken American rugby from its slumber. He is set to join the Eagles’ coaching staff as an attack coach, and he is particularly excited about the prospects in the Pacific Island players, who are making their mark in teams like Utah and San Diego.
Ieremia plans to tap into the growing base of American Pasifika players, but he also recognises the potential in athletes with non-rugby backgrounds. While grassroots rugby may not be as established in the United States as in New Zealand or Australia, he believes there are alternative solutions to develop the sport.
USA Rugby has been facing challenges, reaching its lowest point in recent history when it missed out on qualifying for the Rugby World Cup for the first time since 1995. Portugal secured a draw and World Cup qualification on points differential in a play-off tournament. In light of the domestic Major League Rugby competition gaining international interest and the United States hosting the World Cup in 2031, World Rugby approached Ieremia to help revive American rugby before the 2027 World Cup in Australia.
Ieremia acknowledges the significant hurdles ahead in terms of player development, establishing systems, and aligning with other teams. However, he draws inspiration from the progress he witnessed during his coaching tenure in Auckland, where rugby went from strength to strength. With numerous NPC and Australian players, along with a diverse pool of coaches, the American rugby landscape offers potential.
Although Ieremia has been in the job for a few months, he has only interacted with his colleagues online and is about to visit the United States for the first time. His coaching experience includes stints with Suntory Sungoliath in Japan, Wellington, the Hurricanes, and head coach roles with Samoa and Auckland.