Join the ‘Warrior Nation’ at Zions Bank Stadium
Jul 06, 2021 03:12PM ● By Justin Adams
The Warriors celebrate after scoring a second half try against San Diego. (Justin Adams/The City Journals)
By Justin Adams | [email protected]
Utah has more professional sports teams than most people would think. Of course, everyone knows the Jazz and Real Salt Lake, and people have enjoyed attending the more affordable minor league games offered by the Grizzlies and the Bees for years. But one of Utah’s newest professional sports teams is working hard to establish themselves as another staple of sports entertainment along the Wasatch front: the Utah Warriors.
The Warriors compete in Major League Rugby, a league founded in 2018. The league has quickly expanded, growing from seven teams at its inception to 12 teams currently competing. Matches are televised on the CBS Sports Network and on Fox Sports channels.
The team plays its home matches at Zions Bank Stadium in Herriman, the same stadium where the RSL-affiliate Real Monarchs play.
The team has steadily increased its support from the community as first-time attendees quickly become fans. The team’s support staff does a great job of catering to attendees who may not be all that familiar with the sport of rugby. The public announcer takes time before and during the match to explain the terminology and rules of the game.
Attendees were treated to a particularly thrilling match on June 12, when the Warriors took on the San Diego Legion. The visiting team led throughout most of the game, but the Warriors were able to keep pace for the most part. However, in the 61st minute (of an 80-minute match), San Diego scored a try that put them ahead 41-24, a pretty formidable lead so late in the game.
But the Warriors didn’t give up, as they scored three consecutive tries in the final 19 minutes, including the game-winner by James Vaifale, scored with just seconds remaining on the clock.
Herriman residents still have a couple more chances to see the Warriors in person this season. Their final two home matches will be played on July 11 and 17. With tickets as low as $19, it’s a great option for a date or family outing.
Editor’s Note: The City Journals are a sponsor of the Utah Warriors.
