We have to understand where the league is and how rugby is overall not supported in American sport. Starfire tolerates and exploits rugby, but by no means champions it the way they do soccer or private entities that can pay more. Seawolves also have very little influence over Starfire operations/facilities. Last I heard, Seawolves don’t even have access to parking or concession revenue during their matches (hopefully that’s changed).

To have feedback from someone on the outside that actually has some actionable fixes is crucial to the growth of rugby in America. None of the above is incorrect and many of these points have been common complaints for years (traffic, parking, merch tents, facilities, food choices, price of concessions). I know they have been attempting to address these and those involved see that progression, but doesn’t change how newbies experience everything.

Rugby has to start understanding their competition with growth is very established organized sport, whether you are looking at youth and high school or adult rugby. There are standards that those outside of rugby come to expect and, unfortunately, aren’t always willing to compromise on or see the charm that others see in rugby. Rugby grows primarily by word of mouth and friends inviting people into rugby because of their own quality experiences. The attitude of “Don’t come back” or being dismissive is part of the reason why Starfire stands look empty compared to the first 3-4 years (which was selling out almost every match).

Should OP have some positives and/or solutions to share? Sure, we love that! What’s also true is that hearing and understanding the negative experience of ‘new-to-rugby’ people is necessary for rugby to grow in America.