The NSWRL congratulates NSWRL Director and Sydney Roosters CEO Joe Kelly on his appointment as an Independent Director to the Board of Directors of the US Association of Rugby League (USARL).
The announcement was made by the USARL, which is based in Jacksonville, Florida, as part of its aim to advance the growth of Rugby League by setting up the best corporate governance practices from people experienced in all levels of the game.
Kelly is one of two Australian named as Independent Directors. The other is former Parramatta CEO Bernie Gurr, who now lives in California.
Kelly has experience in three NRL clubs – the Roosters, Manly-Warringah and South Sydney, along with EPL (English Premier League) club Chelsea.
"It is an incredible privilege to be approached and nominated by the USARL Board to join them as an Independent Director,” Kelly told usarl.org
“The US rugby league market should not be underestimated and hopefully through my roles at both the Sydney Roosters and USARL, I can assist to support engagement between the two governing bodies to grow the game in the US.”
Kelly has been Roosters CEO since 2017 and joined the NSWRL Board in February 2023.
Miranda Barnard, a Director with the USARL, said: "We are pleased to welcome two gentlemen that boast expertise in areas that are the Board's primary focus.
"The growth of Rugby League within the United States is undeniable as the domestic season is looking to triple in annual USARL individual memberships, leveraging the knowledge of both Joe and Bernie.”
