T-Shirt New York Rugby League Orange

An Introduction to T-Shirt New York Rugby League

Manufactured by Ellis Rugby, T-Shirt New York Rugby League Orange is one of the finest shirts. While the New York Rugby League franchise is still in its infancy the USA has a unique history in Rugby League.

It was back in 1953 when a team called the American All Stars toured Australia and New Zealand. The squad consisted of mainly college American football players with a small number having played Rugby Union. None of the tourists had ever played Rugby League and few knew the rules of the game. Despite this, they were able to compete against some of the best players in the world and also shocked the local teams with wonderful performances and some stunning victories.

On the 26th May 1953, the American All Stars played a trial game against the Australian Army Engineers. The game was not part of the tour, but the tourists won the game by 41 points to 10. This was the first experience of Rugby League for the majority of the squad.

The following day they met Southern Districts at the Mankua Oval in Canberra in front of a crowd of 4,827.  Here is an exert from the Book ‘No Helmets Required’.

Kirkland stars as American All Stars defeat Canberra

Rugby League critics rated American Al E. Kirkland one of the world’s best centres after he scored four tries against Southern Districts. Kirkland’s brilliance converted an American half-time deficit of 8-20 in to a brilliant 34-25 win.

Kirkland’s running marked him as a threat to any of the sides to play America. Moreover, he rarely moves across the field. He straightens up play immediately he gets the ball and weaves through defences. (Written by George Crawford).

The second half was a sensational 40 minutes. The American novices scored six tries to the Southerners’ one. Al E.Kirklands’s all explosive power and stocky strength, scored four and set up the last for the athletic Bonetti with a 40-yard run. On-looking first grade referee George Bishop, the former Australia Test hooker, admitted ‘It would have been a thriller on the Cricket Ground’. Bishop became so impressed he volunteered to help out Latchem with coaching.

The press box was buzzing with excitement. Had they really seen what they thought they had seen? A balding, blond Californian 22-year-old with little or no rugby experience, tearing it up?

W.B. Corbett, commented ‘Alvin E. Kirkland plays with the speed, anticipation and finesse of a League star of many years’ experience. Second rower Jack Bonetti is one out of the box and Abajian will be a dazzler with more playing experience’.

Latchem Robinson, commented ‘I did not see a better Centre than Kirkland during my recent tour of England and France. I most certainly would have liked him in my Kangaroo team’.

Manufacturing

Manufactured from satin touch 100% cotton, the Ellis Rugby T-Shirt New York Rugby League Orange features detailed applique and embroidery on the front, herringbone detail on vents and taped neck opening. In addition a  stylish ’13’ contrast applique number on one arm and a woven New York Rugby League Crest on the other arm.

Available in sizes S – 5XL.As well as the T-Shirt New York Rugby League Orange, we also offer New York Rugby League Polo and Sweatshirt.