ANTHEM RUGBY ANNOUNCES PILLAR SPORTS AS OFFICIAL TAPE PARTNER

Pillar Sports has announced a new partnership with Anthem Rugby Carolina (Anthem RC) ahead of the 2026 USA Major League Rugby season. More than a commercial agreement, this collaboration marks a shared investment in athletes, community, and the future of professional rugby in America.

Why This Partnership Matters Now

The timing couldn’t be better. The 2027 Rugby World Cup is drawing closer, and the historic 2031 domestic World Cup now sits firmly on the horizon. As a result, American rugby faces its biggest window of opportunity yet. Anthem RC, based in Charlotte, North Carolina, sits at the center of that momentum. The club develops homegrown talent, invests in professional infrastructure, and strengthens the pipeline from community rugby to the national team. For Pillar Sports—a brand built for the world’s toughest sports—the alignment felt natural.

What Pillar Sports Brings to the Table

Through this deal, Pillar Sports will supply Anthem RC with professional-grade athletic taping and performance solutions. These products target the physical demands of elite rugby. In practice, that means helping players prepare with confidence, perform at their peak, and lower their injury risk across a grueling season.

“As we prepare for the 2026 MLR season, having reliable products that prioritize stability, recovery, and player confidence is essential,” said Michael T. Sheridan, ATC, CSCS, Lead Athletic Trainer for the USA Eagles MXV and Anthem RC. “We’re excited to align with a company that understands the physical demands of professional rugby.”

A Club Built on Purposeful Growth

Since entering Major League Rugby, Anthem RC has built its identity around steady, intentional progress. The club has delivered competitive performances against established franchises and continued to develop USA-qualified players into national team pathways. On top of that, the team has deepened its community ties across the Carolinas. Most recently, Anthem RC named the Charlotte Rugby Football Club’s facility as its official training home for 2026—another clear step forward.

“We are energized by MLR’s dynamic vision—including its commitment to homegrown talent through the MLR Academy and the landmark Super Draft,” said Brendan Ireland, CEO of Pillar Sports. “Our brand aligns perfectly with the grit and passion of MLR athletes. We look forward to growing alongside the league and its community.”

What Fans Can Expect This Season

The 2026 regular season kicks off in late March. Each team plays ten matches—five home and five away—against every other league opponent. Throughout the campaign, Pillar Sports and Anthem RC plan to collaborate on performance-focused content, behind-the-scenes access, and matchday activations. These efforts aim to bring fans closer to the team than ever before.

Additionally, supporters won’t have to wait long to see the partnership in action. Anthem RC opens its home slate on Saturday, April 4 against the Chicago Hounds. Home fixtures against the Seattle Seawolves on April 12 and Old Glory DC on April 18 follow shortly after. The club will announce more fan engagement opportunities as the season approaches.

More Than a Single Season

Ultimately, this partnership reflects something bigger than one campaign. It centers on preparation, protection, and performance at the professional level. Both organizations share a belief that the best is still ahead for rugby in the Carolinas—and across the country. As Anthem RC continues to grow, Pillar Sports will stand right alongside them.

Learn more about Pillar Sports: https://pillarsports.com

Follow Anthem RC: https://anthemrc.com