Leeds Beckett University students help deliver Rugby League’s Las Vegas showcase

A group of ten students from the university’s Carnegie School of Sport took on key operational roles during the showpiece rugby league games at Allegiant Stadium, supporting areas including media operations and talent movement.

The opportunity was brokered by a former national rugby league player who now lectures in Sport Management at Leeds Beckett, helping connect students with organisers of the high-profile event. The Las Vegas showcase saw some of rugby league’s biggest names from both hemispheres come together as the sport’s culture and fanfare took over the famous strip.

Throughout the week-long trip, the students contributed across a range of events. These included the headline Leeds Rhinos vs Hull Kingston Rovers Super League fixture and additional Super League matches. There was also a Rugby League 9s tournament featuring Hunslet RLFC and a schools’ tournament.

Third-year Sport Business Management student Patrick Wilkinson worked at the heart of the event throughout the week, including roles in media and talent movement.

Patrick said: “The trip was full of learning, networking and unforgettable experiences. Every experience added a new layer of understanding about how major sporting events are delivered, promoted, and brought to life on a global stage.

“Being part of the media and talent movement operation for such a major international event reinforced just how much coordination, precision, and teamwork goes into elite sport off the field. Seeing it up close was an invaluable learning experience and a brilliant way to end the trip. I’m heading home motivated, inspired, and even more excited about what’s next in sport.”

Sport Management lecturer James Webster praised the students’ contribution throughout the week. He said: “What an extraordinary week it has been for the students. They were given the incredible opportunity to contribute to a major global sporting event in the world’s capital of sport.

“A special mention must go to their outstanding contribution to the world-famous Fremont Street fan event, as well as their involvement on match day itself.

“Our sincere thanks to the NRL team for making this truly unique and invaluable experience possible.”