In Las Vegas, the Raiders are rallying enthusiasm from NFL fans ahead of a significant event on Sunday. The Raiders, a renowned franchise in the NFL with three Super Bowl victories, share a unique connection with the Canberra Raiders, also boasting three premierships.
Hooker Tom Starling addressed this synergy, stating, “We are the Canberra Raiders, they are the Las Vegas Raiders, so it’s only natural for them to cheer for us.” He expressed that fostering local support is key, as he aims to cultivate a fondness for rugby league among Las Vegas’s NFL enthusiasts. Starling underscored that a strong fanbase enhances game-day experiences, making them more enjoyable for everyone involved.
While the Canberra Raiders have secured their titles while based in Australia’s capital, the Las Vegas Raiders have yet to clinch a championship since moving to Nevada, although they previously won two Super Bowls while stationed in Oakland and added a third title during their time in Los Angeles. The Raiders’ history reflects the typical trajectory in American sports where franchises often shift cities; they originally began in Oakland in 1960 before relocating to Los Angeles and eventually to Las Vegas in 2020.
Establishing a presence in their new locale has been challenging for the Raiders, who now play at Allegiant Stadium—a premier venue that attracts fans from across the country, including out-of-town supporters drawn to Vegas for away games. Starling expressed his anticipation for playing in such a vibrant city, taking cues from fellow players who previously enjoyed their time in Las Vegas.
Looking ahead, Starling is acutely aware of the stakes, particularly after the Raiders fell short of reaching the finals last season due to lapses in performance. He noted that the squad is determined to improve this year, aiming to compete at the highest level throughout the entire match, much like top teams such as Melbourne and Penrith do.
The Raiders are set to face the Warriors at 11 am AEDT on the upcoming Sunday, and Starling is eager to harness the energy of both local and travelling fans to propel his team towards its aspirations. The excitement surrounding this game reflects the potential for growth in both rugby league and the Raiders’ engagement with their Las Vegas audience.