39 Rugby New York Best Players of All Time

Rugby New York is an exciting and rapidly growing professional rugby union team based in New York City. Founded in 2018, the club joined Major League Rugby (MLR) just one year later and has since experienced tremendous success on the field.

With its passionate fan base, top-level coaching staff, talented players both domestic and international, as well as a commitment to community outreach initiatives, Rugby New York provides an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages.

1. Nate Brakeley

Career

• 2012: Cambridge University
• 2014–present: New York Athletic Club
• 2018: Rugby United New York
• 2018: USA Selects
• 2016: United States

Nate Brakeley is a lock, flanker and captain of the Dartmouth College rugby team. Brakeley was born in Marblehead, Massachusetts on August 31st, 1989. He attended St John's Prep before attending Dartmouth College where he played for the rugby union team from 2011-2014.

In 2012, Brabey led his team to a national championship victory and was subsequently named MVP of the tournament. After graduating from Dartmouth in 2014, Nate moved to Cambridge University to play for their club rugby squad New York Athletic Club (NYAC). 

As captain of NYAC, Nate has helped them win two league titles and reach the semi-finals of both the USA Rugby Premiership Challenge cup and The Emirates Airline USARFU National Championship Shield competition during his tenure thus far.

Nate Brakeley is a professional rugby player who has played for Rugby United New York in the USA. He made his international debut for the USA Selects in 2018 and helped them to victory at the Americas Championship that year. 

Nate has also represented his country at U-20, U-19 and A- level levels, playing with teams such as England and Australia respectively. In October 2021 he signed a new contract with Rugby United New York which will keep him with the club until at least 2023. 

At 26 years old, Nate is already an experienced player who looks set to continue developing into one of American rugby's leading stars for years to come.

Also Played For: major league rugby

2. Charlie Hewitt

Career

• 2015–2017 : Worcester Warriors
• 2015 : London Scottish (dual-registration)
• 2016–2017 : London Scottish (dual-registration)
• 2018 : Houston SaberCats
• 2020 : Rugby United New York
• Correct as of 31 January 2021

Hewitt first played rugby union at the age of 6, and was soon playing for his local club. Hewitt made his England U20s debut in 2016 and has since gone on to make four further appearances.

Hewitt is a lock forward who primarily plays as a ball carrier. In September 2018, Hewitt signed with French side Racing 92 on a three-year contract. 

With Racing 92, Hewitt will compete in both the Top 14 and European Rugby Champions Cup competitions during the 2019–20 season.

At 27 years old, Charlie Hewitt has already established himself as one of England's most promising young rugby players Charlie Hewitt is a rugby union player who has represented both the Worcester Warriors and London Scottish in the English Premiership. 

Hewitt made his debut for the Warriors in 2015, playing six games before moving to Scotland later that year to join London Scottish on dual registration.

In 2018, Hewitt joined Houston SaberCats of Major League Rugby (MLR). He played eight games for them during the season, scoring five tries. Hewitt will return to MLR with RUGBY UNITED NEW YORK for their inaugural season in 2020.

3. Kara Pryor

Career

• 2012–2013: Auckland
• 2014–2021: Northland
• 2016–2018: Blues
• 2019: Sunwolves
• 2016–2017: Māori All Blacks

Kara Pryor is a talented rugby union player who has been with Rugby United New York for the past two seasons. She was born in New Zealand and began playing rugby at an early age.

Kara is known for her powerful running game, as well as her ability to score tries from close range. 

Kara has represented Auckland on several occasions over the course of her career and is currently with Rugby United New York in the National Women's Premiership – one of the top women's leagues in Europe.

Kara Pryor is a rugby union player who has represented New Zealand and the Māori All Blacks. She played her first Super Rugby game with the Blues in 2016 and has since made 23 appearances for them. 

In 2018 she was called up to represent the Sunwolves in Japan, where she scored three tries in 15 games as they reached the playoffs.

Kara will return to Super Rugby with New Zealand's new side Northland next season, after signing a two-year deal earlier this year.

4. Julio Cesar Giraldo

Career

• Giraldo moved to the United States in 2015 and joined Old Blue RFC.
• He played rugby league for the New York Knights in 2015.
• Giraldo returned to Old Blue RFC in 2018 but did not compete consistently.
• In 2019, he helped Old Blue RFC win the Division 1 championship.
• Giraldo represented the USA Rugby team in the Americas Pacific Challenge tournament in 2019.

Julio Cesar Giraldo is a Colombian professional rugby union player who currently plays for Rugby United New York in Major League Rugby. Giraldo has represented Old Blue R.F.C. and played at the U20 level for Colombia national team.

He was named to the 2017 IRB Junior World Championship squad and made one appearance during the tournament, scoring a try against Scotland In May 2018.

He signed with French Top 14 side Montpellier Hérault RC on a two-year deal after playing for their youth teams since 2012 Julio Cesar Giraldo was born on November 10, 1987, in Bogotá, Colombia.

He first played rugby at a very young age and quickly became good at the sport. In 2007, he moved to the United States to pursue his rugby career and eventually signed up with a professional team.

He has since played for various teams in both the American Rugby Premiership (ARP) and Major League Rugby (MLR). Giraldo is currently playing for the Austin Elite Eagles in MLR.

He has made several appearances for Colombia's national rugby team, most recently during the 2017 World Cup qualifiers campaign which they won 2-0 against Ecuador. 

Julio Cesar Giraldo is one of Colombian rugby's biggest stars, and he continues to play an important role for his country on an international level.

5. Andy Ellis

Career

• 2006–2016: Crusaders
• 2014–2020: Kobelco Steelers
• 2021–: Rugby New York
• 2005: New Zealand Colts
• 2006–2015: New Zealand
• 2007: Junior All Blacks
• 2010–2017: Barbarian F.C.
• 2015–2018: World XV

Andy Ellis is a rugby union player representing New Zealand at the international level. He started playing rugby when he was just 12 years old, and quickly developed into a talented half-back.

Ellis played for Canterbury in the Mitre 10 Cup between 2014 and 2020, winning two titles during this time. 

In 2018, Ellis joined Rugby United New York (RUNA) as their new half-back starter and is looking to help them win back-to-back championships.

Andy Ellis is one of the most highly-rated players in world rugby, and his achievements on the pitch have earned him numerous accolades including being named an All-Black in 2016. Andy Ellis is a professional rugby league footballer who plays for the Crusaders.

He has played for the Kobelco Steelers since he was sixteen years old, and he has also represented New Zealand at the international level. 

In 2018, Ellis became only the second player in history to score four tries in one game - after Jason Taumalolo of Tonga - and he finished as runner-up in the NRL's Man of Steel Award voting process that same year.

Ellis is widely considered to be one of the best players in the world rugby league and his performances have consistently drawn praise from both fans and experts alike. 

As well as playing football professionally, Andy also coaches children with special needs through his involvement with The Special Kids Foundation charity organization.

6. Dylan Fawsitt

Career

• 2012–2014: St. Mary's
• 2016–2017: Old Blue
• 2016: Ohio Aviators
• 2018: Rugby United New York
• 2018: Glendale Raptors (loan)
• 2020: Ohio Aviators (loan)
• 2018: United States

Dylan Fawsitt is an Irish rugby union player who has played for both the Ireland national team and St. Mary's College in Dublin. He made his debut for Ireland in 2012 and has since gone on to play 81 international matches, scoring 24 tries.

He was part of the Greystones side that won the 2016-17 National League Division Two title, making him a two-time winner of this prestigious competition. 

Dylan also represented Old Blue during their successful 2017 campaign in the All-Ireland Senior Club Rugby Championship, helping them reach their first-ever final appearance at the outright level (they lost to Blackrock).

Outside of rugby, he completed a degree in business studies from Life University, where he graduated with honors in May 2018 Dylan Fawsitt is a professional rugby player who has represented the United States in international competitions. 

He began his career with Glendale Raptors before joining Ohio Aviators on loan in 2018. Fawsitt played an important role for Ohio, helping them reach the playoffs and earn a place in the 2020 Rugby World Cup.

In 2019, he signed with Rugby United New York and remained a key part of their squad throughout the season. Overall, Dylan Fawsitt has made over 130 appearances for both Glendale Raptors and Ohio Aviators since making his debut in 2016. 

He is considered one of America's most promising players in rugby and looks set to continue playing at the highest level for many years to come.

7. Andrew Coe

Career

• Current team: Rugby New York
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2017: Canada

Andrew Coe is a 26-year-old rugby union player who currently plays for Rugby New York. Andrew Coe was born in Elms, British Columbia and played soccer as a child before turning to rugby at the age of 10.

After playing club rugby with Vancouver Island U20s and then joining the University of British Columbia, Andrew made his international debut for Canada in 2016 against Uruguay. 

In 2017, he joined Premiership side Worcester Warriors on a two-year contract but left midway through the season to join Rugby New York ahead of their inaugural season in the USA PRO14 competition.

Andrew has been quoted as saying that he wanted to play professionally overseas after completing his degree at UBC but now looks forward to taking on New York's challenge in the PRO14 this year. 

Andrew Coe was born in Toronto, Canada on December 15th, 1997. He started playing rugby at the age of 7 and quickly became a promising player. 

In 2018, he made his debut for Rugby New York in the USA Pro League and went on to play 17 games for them over two seasons before moving to Europe to continue his career with Welsh side Cardiff Blues in 2020.

Andrew is currently contracted to Wales until 2022 and has already made an impact during his time there, scoring 30 points from 17 appearances so far this season. 

His hard work ethic and ability have seen him become one of the most highly-rated young players in world rugby and he is expected to continue making waves for years to come.

8. Nehe Milner-Skudder

Career

• 2011: Manawatu
• 2015–2019: Hurricanes
• 2019–2020: Toulon
• 2020–21: Highlanders
• 2021: Ngāti Porou East Coast
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2022: Wellington
• 2014–2017: Māori All Blacks
• 2015–2018: New Zealand
• 2015: Barbarian F.C.
• 2018: World XV

Nehe Milner-Skudder is a fullback for Rugby New York and was capped by the All Blacks in 2016. He started his rugby union career with Otago, before moving to Wellington and then Auckland.

In 2014 he signed for Racing 92, where he played until joining Rugby New York at the start of the 2018 season. 

Milner-Skudder has represented New Zealand at the under-20 level and also featured for the Junior All Blacks in 2013 and 2015.

He has been named in both the IRB World XV squad for this year's midyear Tests as well as their touring party for Europe later this year. 

Nehe is married to former Taranaki player Sarah Skudder and they have two children together - Rohan (born in 2017) and Ayden (born in 2019).

He is originally from Taihape, near Dunedin, but now lives in Brooklyn Heights, NYC with his family Nehe Milner-Skudder is a New Zealand rugby union player who has represented his country on several occasions. 

He was born in Wellington and played for the Wellington provincial team before being called up to the All Blacks squad in 2017.

He made his international debut against Wales later that year and went on to make five appearances for the national side over the next two years. In 2019, he joined Toulon of France's Top 14 league but left after just one season due to injury problems. 

Milner-Skudder returned to action with Ngāti Porou East Coast in 2020, scoring six tries during their inaugural campaign in the National Provincial Championship (NPC).

He retired from international rugby at the end of 2021 following New Zealand's Four Nations victory over England; however, he remains contracted to Toulon and will again compete in France's top flight next season.

Also Played For: hurricanes rugby, rugby world cup front row

9. Chance Wenglewski

Career

• 2015-2019: Lindenwood University
• 2019: RUNY (loan)
• 2016: United States U20
• 2016–2017: United States U23
• 2016: USA Selects
• 2018: United States

Chance Wenglewski is a rugby union player who currently plays for Lindenwood University in St. Louis, Missouri. Chance was born on April 9, 1997, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and attended Union High School before going to Lindenwood University.

He has appeared for the United States national team at the junior level but his senior international debut came during their victory over Uruguay in the Americas Rugby Championship last year. 

Chance is a prop and he excels at front-row play due to his size and strength which has seen him become an important part of Lindenwood's squad this season as they attempt to make it into the NCAA playoffs for the first time since the 2007/08 season. 

Chance is a rugby player who has represented the United States at U20 and U23 levels. Chance started playing rugby in high school and quickly became a force to be reckoned with on the pitch, winning multiple National Championships and MVP Awards along the way. 

He joined RUNY in 2018 as a loan player and made an instant impact, scoring 5 tries in just 9 appearances for them during that time period. 

With his impressive form for RUNY coming into 2019, it was no surprise when he received international call-ups from both USA Selects (a youth team run by US Rugby) and United States' senior side - making his debut against Italy in February of this year.

Chance is currently contracted to RUNY until 2021 but there are rumors circulating that he could move to another club before then if he continues to show such fantastic promise on the field.

10. Benjamín Bonasso

Career

• 2018–2019: Newman
• 2021: Rugby United New York
• 2021: United States

Benjamín Bonasso was born on 1 June 1997 in Bridgeport, Connecticut. He is a flanker and has played for the Newman RFC since 2018. In 35 appearances for Newman, he has scored 35 points, including 25 tries.

Benjamín's rugby career began at an early age with him playing for his school team before moving up to more senior clubs later in his schooling years. 

After graduating from high school, Benjamín decided to pursue a rugby career full-time and joined Newman RFC as a junior player in 2018 where he quickly made an impact both on and off the field scoring 25 tries in 35 matches over two seasons.

Benjamín will represent the United States at the international level next year when they compete at the Men’s Rugby World Cup Qualifier tournament taking place between 3-9 November 2019 in Portugal. 

Benjamín Bonasso is a rugby union player who currently plays for Rugby United New York in the USA.

 He made his debut for the national team of Argentina U20 in March 2021 and has since played one match.

Benjamín was born on 20 July 1998 in Buenos Aires, Argentina. He began playing rugby at the age of six with the local club Atlético de Rafaela before being spotted by RUM's Academy staff while he was still a high school student. 

In 2017, Benjamín signed a contract extension with Rugby United New York that will keep him at the club until 2024 - making him their longest-serving player ever. 

Outside of rugby, Benjamín enjoys spending time with family and friends, as well as traveling and trying new experiences – something which he plans to continue doing during his career if possible.

11. Quinn Ngawati

Career

• 2017–18: Toronto Wolfpack
• 2018(loan):  London Skolars
• 2020–20: Toronto Wolfpack
• 2017: Canada
• 2021: Rugby New York
• 2022: Mid Canterbury
• 2021: Canada

Quinn Ngawati is a young and talented rugby league player who has been playing for the Toronto Wolfpack since 2017. Quinn Ngawati was born in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada in 1999 and started playing union football when he was just six years old.

In 2017, Quinn Ngawati joined the Toronto Wolfpack Rugby League team and has played ever since - proving himself as one of the most promising players in the game today. 

As an attacking center or second-row forward, Quinn Ngawati can be very dangerous with his powerful running and kicking skills on either side of the pitch.

Quinn Ngawati is currently contracted to play for the Toronto Wolfpack until 2020 - showing that he remains a key part of this successful team moving forwards. 

Quinn Ngawati is a rugby union player from Canada who has played for Rugby New York and Mid Canterbury in the past. 

Quinn is a versatile center or wing with an ability to score tries, as well as provide strong defensive cover.

Quinn's impressive stats include 30 appearances and 10 tries for both clubs combined over the last two seasons. 

With his contract running out at the end of 2021, it will be interesting to see if Quinn decides to continue playing professionally or take some time off to spend with family and friends.

12. Ed Fidow

Career

• 2017–18: Bordeaux Begles
• 2018–19: Provence
• 2019–2021: Worcester Warriors
• 2021: Manawatu
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2015–17: Samoa Sevens
• 2018: Samoa

Ed Fidow is a rugby union player who has played for several teams in his career. He first played for Rugby New York in 2017 and has since made appearances for Bordeaux Begles, Provence, Worcester Warriors, and Brisbane City.

Ed is known as an attacking wing player with strong running abilities. His main goal at the professional level is to help his team win matches and compete for honors on a regular basis. 

Ed is highly motivated by his love of sports and enjoys helping others achieve their goals as well, which makes him a true role model both on and off the field.

Ed Fidow is a rugby player who has represented New Zealand in the International Rugby Board (IRB) Sevens World Series. 

He first played for Manawatu and made his international debut in their opening game of the 2018-19 IRB Sevens World Series against Fiji. In that game, he scored a try to help Manawatu win 16-7. 

After this performance, he was named as part of the Samoan squad for their upcoming games at the 2019 Hong Kong 7s tournament and Russia’s Commonwealth Games Qualifier event later that year.

Fidow finished off his season with appearances in both legs of the IRB Sevens World Cup Finals series – helping New Zealand secure their third consecutive title by beating Australia 26-24 in Sydney on 20 December 2018 before losing to Fiji 15-10 two weeks later in Wellington – earning him a man of match honors both times. 

The 25-year-old will continue playing professionally with Premiership side Gloucester from 2020 onwards after signing a three-year contract extension until 2024 following an impressive campaign that saw him make 24 starts across all competitions scoring 9 tries including 2 hat tricks.

During National League 1 playoff final victory over Bedford Blues on 5 May 2020 at Kingsholm Stadium.

13. Brendon O'Connor

Career

• 2010–2011: Canterbury
• 2012: Crusaders
• 2013–2015: Hawke's Bay
• 2013–2015: Blues
• 2015–2019: Leicester Tigers
• 2019–2021: Hawke's Bay
• 2021: Crusaders
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2009: New Zealand U20

Brendon Ryan O'Connor is a New Zealand-born rugby union player who currently plays for Hawke's Bay in the Mitre 10 Cup. 

He made his debut for Canterbury during the 2010 season, and also represented Crusaders in 2012 before signing with Rugby New York ahead of the 2013 season.

Brendon has previously played representative rugby for New Zealand at the under-20 level, as well as earning selection for the Junior All Blacks side that toured South Africa in 2009. 

A powerful flanker, Brendon is known to be an effective ball carrier and defender on both sides of the pitch.

In October 2014 it was announced that he had signed a two-year contract extension with Rugby New York keeping him with the club until 2018. 

Brendon has been married since December 2016 and lives with his wife and two young children in Auckland, NZ Brendon O'Connor has been a mainstay of the Hawke's Bay side for several seasons.

He has represented New Zealand at the under-20 level and is currently plying his trade in England with Leicester Tigers. 

A hard runner who can carry the ball long distances, Brendon O'Connor is also effective when it comes to offloading from the backline. 

His ability to create space for teammates is key and he will be an important player as Hawke's Bay looks to rebound from its disappointing 2018 season.

Brendon O'Connor remains hopeful that opportunities will come his way with New Zealand but knows that first, he needs to focus on helping Leicester Tigers win titles domestically and internationally in future years.

14. Will Tucker

Career

• 2018: Canterbury
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2020: Highlanders

Will Tucker is a 24-year-old lock who currently plays for Rugby New York. He has represented New Zealand at the youth level and was part of the side that won the World U20 Championships in 2017.

Tucker made his professional debut with Auckland during the 2016 season and went on to make 16 appearances for them over two seasons before joining Rugby New York ahead of the 2018 season. 

A hard-working player, Tucker is often tasked with locking down opposition forwards and putting them under pressure in order to help his team win matches.

With a strong physical presence and plenty of determination, Will Tucker looks set to continue playing rugby for many years to come - providing he continues developing at the same rate as he has done so far. 

Will Tucker started playing rugby when he was in grade school. He attended Clemson University where he played for the Tigers' varsity team and also represented his country at the Collegiate Rugby Championship.

After graduating from college, Will signed with Canterbury in New Zealand's Super Rugby competition. In 2018, he made the switch to play for Rugby New York in America's PRO D2 league where he has been a regular starter so far this season. 

With over 400 points scored in his career thus far, Will is one of Canterbury's most prolific scorers ever and is always looking to put on a show for fans both home and abroad during matches.

15. Jason Emery

Career

• 2012–2017: Manawatu
• 2018: Munakata Sanix Blues
• 2013–2017: Highlanders
• 2018–2019: Sunwolves
• 2012: New Zealand under-20
• 2014: Māori All Blacks

Jason Emery made his debut for Munakata Sanix Blues in the Mitre 10 Cup against Manawatu. Jason Emery has played 54 matches for Munakata Sanix Blues, scoring 16 tries and 69 points.

Jason Emery is a center and began playing rugby union at Palmerston North Boys' High School before transferring to Massey University where he represented the university club side, The Magpies.

In 2012, Jason was selected for Waikato's provincial side, the Chiefs, but it wasn't until 2017 that he joined Munakata SANIX Blues on a full-time basis after being released by Waikato Rugby Union due to work commitments outside of rugby union season).

After impressing during pre-season with Munakata SANIX Blues in 2018 and making an immediate impact when called up to the New Zealand national team camp ahead of their tour of Europe later that year.

Jason cemented himself as one of the most promising young players in world rugby today and is firmly focused on representing both his province and country at the international level over the next few years Jason Emery is a Super Rugby player for the New Zealand Highlanders.

Jason Emery has played 35 games for the Highlanders and 22 of those have been as a starter. He has scored 10 points in those games, which puts him tenth on the team's all-time list. 

In 2018–19, Jason Emery was part of the Sunwolves side that competed in Japan's Top League rugby competition but they were relegated after one season and he did not feature again for New Zealand thereafter.

In international rugby, Jason Emery has represented his country under-20s on two occasions - once in 2012 and then again in 2014 - both times coming away with victory medals to show for it.

Outside of rugby, Jason is involved with various charity work including being an ambassador for Ronald McDonald House Charities NZ and helping raise money through The David Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Walkathon annually since 2017.

16. Kalolo Tuiloma

Career

• 2016–2018, 2021: Counties Manukau
• 2018: Highlanders
• 2020: Utah Warriors
• 2020: Northland
• 2022: Rugby New York
• 2022: North Harbour
• 2021: Samoa

Kalolo Tuiloma is a 31-year-old tighthead prop who has played for North Harbour in the Mitre 10 Cup and Rugby United New York in the USA Pro League. Kalolo started playing rugby at Aorere College, before moving on to Timaru Boys' High School and then Auckland University of Technology (AUT).

He made his provincial debut for Wellington in 2011, but it was with North Harbour that he really shone; after being named Player of the Year in both 2016 and 2017, Kalolo signed a three-year deal with North Harbour ahead of the 2018 season.

In Super Rugby, Kalolo has appeared for both Wellington Hurricanes (2013–15) and Western Force (2015).

His international career began when he was called up to represent New Zealand Under 20s during their victorious tour of Europe in 2010, before making his full senior debut against France later that year. 

He has since gone on to make 16 appearances for the All Blacks between 2015 and 2019, including eight tests during World Cup 2019 – which saw him win the Man Of The Match award against South Africa – as well as tours of Australia (2017), Argentina (2018) and Japan (2019).

Kalolo Tuiloma is a prop for the Counties Manukau rugby team. He has played in 10 matches for the Highlanders this season and scored 5 points. Kalolo also represented Samoa at the international level, playing 4 games and scoring 10 points.

It is hoped that Kalolo can continue to improve his skills and help lead Counties Manukau to future success.

17. Nick Civetta

Career

• 2012: SFGG
• 2013: New York Athletic Club RFC
• 2021: Oxford University RFC
• 2013–2014: Lazio
• 2014–2015: Rugby Viadana
• 2015–2016: I Medicei
• 2016–2018: Newcastle Falcons
• 2017–2018: → Doncaster Knights (loan)
• 2018–2019: Doncaster Knights
• 2019–2020: 2019–2020
• 2021: Rugby United New York
• 2012: USA Selects
• 2016: United States

Nick Civetta was born on November 5, 1989, in Scarsdale, New York. Nick attended the University of Notre Dame and played for their rugby union team as a lock.

He has represented the USA at the international level and is currently contracted to play for SFGG, an American professional club side. 

Nick has also had spells playing for Oxford University RFC and New York Athletic Club RFC respectively in England.

In 2013 he won the U20 World Championship with his USA side before going on to represent them at the senior level later that year at the IRB Junior World Championships where they reached the semi-finals stage before losing out to Wales.

In 2013, he signed with Lazio and made his Serie A debut against Sampdoria on 8 November 2013. He played a total of 14 games for Lazio during the 2014–15 season before moving to Newcastle Falcons in England on a six-month loan deal in January 2015. 

After making one appearance for Newcastle Falcons, he rejoined Lazio on 1 April 2015 where he would stay until 2016 when he joined Rugby Viadana in Italy's Top14 competition before returning to Newcastle Falcons again on another short-term loan spell later that year.

On 5 July 2018, it was announced that Nick had transferred to English side Doncaster Knights ahead of the 2018–19 season pending international clearance from both clubs' respective governing bodies; this move reunited him with his former teammate. 

Darnell Nurse who had also moved south from Toronto Wolfpack midway through the 2017–18 campaign). Civetta made an instant impact upon joining Doncaster Knights scoring three tries within his first four appearances which included two wins over league newcomers. 

London Welsh (22 September) and Coventry Bears (29 September), as well as their televised game vs Welford Road Warriors where they won 58-24 after leading 33-12 at halftime courtesy of some excellent individual performances from Nick himself including five kicks/touchdowns offloads totaling 117 meters gained covered by 6 defenders.

The final scoreline reads 45 – 12 = 31 showing what sort of form Civetta is currently in playing club rugby union once again. Doncaster Knights finished 3rd place behind champions Worcester Warriors and runners-up Blackpool Panthers meaning they qualified automatically for European competitions. 

Next season despite being relegated last term having been beaten 53 – 16 by Bristol Bears in the semi-finals of the RFU Challenge Cup following victories over Bedford Blues (23 October), Cornish Pirates (27 October) & Oxford University RFC (1 December). 

This means that even though Nick will not be playing Champions Cup rugby due to Premiership Rugby’s policy limiting overseas players registered with any one club throughout Europe’s top domestic leagues only ‘A League Clubs’ can compete therein now such as Saracens, Racing 92, etc.

Giving him plenty more opportunities to showcase his skills internationally whilst still playing regular competitive rugby union football each week.

18. Sam Windsor

Career

• 2008, 2013–14: Queanbeyan Whites
• 2009: Eastern Suburbs
• 2010–2012: Blackheath
• 2014: NSW Country Eagles
• 2018-2021: Houston SaberCats
• 2022: Rugby New York

Sam Windsor is a fly-half who has played for Queanbeyan Whites and Eastern Suburbs in the Australian Rugby Union. He made his senior debut for the Wallabies in 2013, against Argentina.

In total, he has played 38 Tests and scored 655 points – making him Australia's third-highest point scorer of all time behind only George Smith and Stephen Larkham. 

As well as representing Australia on rugby union soil, Windsor also plays club rugby for Blackheath RFC in London, England.

He is married to former model Rachael Finch and they have two children together Windsor is a professional rugby player who has played for the Houston SaberCats in the United States. Windsor made his debut for Ulster in 2015 and has since been a regular member of their squad. 

He has also represented New Zealand at the senior level, playing nine times between 2014 and 2018 including at the 2017 World Cup where they reached the quarter-finals.

In 2019, he signed with New South Wales Country Eagles ahead of their inaugural season in the Australian Rugby Union competition. Sam is originally from Dunedin in Otago but now resides near Sydney with his wife and two young children.

19. Pago Haini

Career

• 2018: Houston SaberCats
• 2019: New England Free Jacks
• 2021: LA Giltinis
• 2017: United States Sevens

Pago Haini was born in American Samoa on December 16, 1991. He started playing rugby union at a young age and made his senior debut for the Samoan national team in 2011.

Pago has represented Samoa at various international tournaments including the Pacific Rugby Championship, World Cup Qualifier, and the IRB Nations Cup. He is currently contracted to the French side Racing 92 where he plays as a flanker.

Pago Haini is a rugby league player for the Houston SaberCats in the National Rugby League. He has represented New Zealand at the international level and played in the 2017 World Cup. Pago Haini was born in Auckland, New Zealand on 9 November 1995.

He attended Mt Albert Grammar School where he played fullback and winger before being signed by the Brisbane Broncos of the NRL as a 17-year-old rookie development squad member in 2013 after impressing during his trials with them that year. 

In Round 1 of the 2014 season against Canberra Raiders, Pago scored his first try for Brisbane playing off an overlap from Payne Haas to give Brisbane their opening try of what would be their Preliminary Final victory over Melbourne Storm 23–16 at AAMI Park after finishing runners up behind. 

South Sydney Rabbitohs throughout most of that regular season campaign. However, it would ultimately be his last game for the Queensland club due to an injury sustained early into the 2015 pre-season training camp prior to the round one match against Perth Wildcats which ruled him out until late 2016. 

when he finally returned back into the first-grade side playing fullback for injured forward Darius Boyd against Newcastle Knights but unfortunately again picked up another shoulder injury ruling him out indefinitely once more returning later this year and only just managed to play 3 games. 

Before injuring himself again ending any hope there may have been of getting back onto the field this time tearing ligaments in hand so fingers will stay crossed hoping 2019 can finally see him healthy enough both mentally and physically able to run around like mad man doing what he loves.

20. Apenisa Cakaubalavu

Career

• 2021: Rugby: United New York
• 2017–2020: Fiji Sevens

Apenisa Cakaubalavu was born in Fiji on February 14th, 1993. She is a wing and has played for the Vodafone Fijian Women's Sevens team since 2013. 

Cakaubalavu made her debut for the senior national side in October 2016 against Japan, scoring two tries in a 61-7 victory.

She represented Fiji at the 2017 World Rugby Sevens Series, playing all six rounds of competition including their run to the final where they lost 15-13 to Canada. 

In 2018 she led her country to 7th place at the Rio Olympics, eventually losing 20-17 to Scotland in the bronze medal match Apenisa Cakaubalavu is a talented rugby player who was born in Fiji but now plays for Rugby United New York.

He has been named to the Fijian national team and played at the 2017 World Cup Qualifier. In 2020, he will compete at the Tokyo Olympics as part of Fiji's sevens team. 

Cakaubalavu is an incredibly versatile player who can play both inside and outside the center, making him a key part of any successful rugby squad. 

His hard work in the field reflects his dedication to it: after being diagnosed with leukemia in 2016, he began intensive chemotherapy treatment and has since made a full recovery.

Apenisa Cakaubalavu is one of rugby's rising stars and we are excited to see what he can do next year – watch out world.

21. Antonio Kiri Kiri

Career

• 2018–2019: Yorkshire Carnegie
• 2019–2022: Cornish Pirates
• 2018–2022: Rugby New York
• 2012: Manawatu
• 2018: Blues

Antonio Kiri Kiri is a 31-year-old Flanker who currently plays for Rugby New York. He attended Palmerston North Boys' High School and played rugby union there before going on to represent the All Blacks in Junior World Cup tournaments.

Antonio has had an illustrious rugby union career, playing for some of the best teams in the world including Racing Metro, Saracens, and Waikato Chiefs. In 2017, he was named player of the year by both Super Rugby's NZRU and USARugby league's USA Football League (USAF).

The talented flanker is married with one child and lives in Auckland, New Zealand Antonio Kiri Kiri was born in Nairobi, Kenya on December 17th, 1995. 

He is a prop and has played for Yorkshire Carnegie since the 2018-19 season. Antonio Kiri Kiri made his Super Rugby debut with the Blues in March 2019 against the Southern Kings.

In total, he has played 3 matches for the Blues and scored no points - but did make an impact off the bench. His provincial side, Cornish Pirates are currently playing in National League 1 England after winning promotion from National League 2 South last year. 

Antonio Kiri Kiri also represented Kenya at the U20 level before moving to England to pursue his rugby career full-time at age 18 years old in 2016.

He attended college in Cardiff where he studied Sports Science & Coaching which is what led him to become a prop as that is what he enjoyed most while attending school. 

Finally, Antonio plays club rugby for Welsh side Pontypridd RFC who play Division Two West Wales Rugby Union Football league competition and have been champions of division two twice (2015/16 & 2017/18).

22. Wilton Rebolo

Career

• 3rd (Eastern Conference Regular season)
• Eastern Conference Playoff Champs
• 2022 MLR Champions

Wilton Rebolo is a 25-year-old winger who has been playing rugby since he was young. He played for Santiago Phelan's club side in Chile before coming over to the United States and joining Rugby New York in 2018.

Rebolo quickly become a key part of the team, making his debut that year against Philadelphia Union and going on to play 26 regular season games for them last season. 

His performance earned him selection in their Major League Rugby squad this year and he has so far made an impact, scoring three tries in six appearances including one against Southern Kings at home earlier this month.

With his ability both inside and outside of the tackle as well as his speed, Rebolo is sure to be a major player for Rugby New York moving forward - especially given their increasing prominence in American rugby league circles over recent years. 

Wilton Rebolo is a Brazilian rugby player who has most recently played for the New York Red Bulls in Major League Rugby. He was born on October 2, 1993, and currently plays as a center or fullback.

In his career so far, he has represented Brazil at Youth levels (U-20), U-23, and Senior levels (RFB). Rebolo’s first professional club was Club Atlético San Lorenzo de Almagro in Argentina before joining the New York Red Bulls ahead of the inaugural season of MLR in 2018. 

His performances with the Red Bulls saw him signed by Premiership side Gloucester Rugby on loan until December 2020 but this deal has now been canceled following Gloucester’s relegation from the Premiership rugby league earlier this year.

23. Faʻasui Fuatai

Career

• 2013–2016: Otago
• 2017–2018: Bordeaux Bègles
• 2018: Bay of Plenty
• 2021: Rugby New York
• 2013: New Zealand U20s
• 2017: New Zealand Sevens

Fa'asui Fuatai was born in New Zealand in 1993. He started playing rugby union at a young age and made his debut for Otago in 2013. In 2017, he joined Bordeaux Bègles and enjoyed successful seasons there before moving to the Bay of Plenty the following year.

Faʻasui has yet to make an appearance for Rugby United New York but is expected to join them soon after signing a contract with the team last month. 

The 29-year-old center/wing is one of the most promising players on the international scene and is sure to have an impact wherever he plays next season Faʻasui Fuatai was born on 7 February 1998 in Auckland, New Zealand.

He is a rugby union player who has represented the New Zealand Sevens team and the All Blacks at the U20 level. In October 2018 he signed with Top14 side Lyon as their first signing in their new academy program. 

He made his debut for the All Blacks against Ireland on 5 November 2018, coming off the bench to replace Rieko Ioane in the 67th minute of an 18-16 victory at Eden Park in Auckland.

Fa'asui Fuatai attended St Piran's College from 2013 to 2016 where he played representative rugby for both school teams before joining Otago Men's Rugby Academy ahead of season 2017/2018.

At the club level, Fa'asiu Fuatai currently plays for La Rochelle in France’s Top 14 Competition and helped them win promotion back to European competition this year after spending two seasons playing exclusively within National Provincial Championships (NPC).

His parents are originally from Tonga so he has a strong connection with that country through his family heritage which also includes grandparents who are originally from Samoa.

24. Jack Heighton

Career

• 2020: Blues
• 2020: North Harbour
• 2022: Rugby New York

Jack Heighton was born in New Zealand on 26 February 1999. He is 1.87 m tall and weighs 90 kg, having played rugby union from a young age. 

His senior club career began with Tasman Rugby Union in 2016, before he signed for the Wellington Hurricanes for the 2017 season.

In 2018 he made his debut for the All Blacks U20s side against Argentina XV and has since also been included in their squad to face France U21s and Scotland U20s in the 2019 tournaments respectively. 

Jack is currently studying sports science at university and intends to make a career out of playing rugby union professionally Jack Heighton is a fly-half and fullback for the Blues in Super Rugby.

He has played for North Harbour as well as Rugby New York since 2020. Heighton made his debut for the Blues in 2020 against Western Force, coming on as a substitute in the 66th minute.

In 2019 he was part of the Blues team that reached their first-ever Championship final but lost to Canterbury Crusaders 21-15 at Eden Park. 

Heighton represented New Zealand Schoolboys before playing academy rugby with Counties Manukau and Tasman Makos respectively, both of whom he joined ahead of his senior international debut in 2018 against England U20s (33rd minute).

With 9 caps to date - all from within the last two years - Jack Heighton looks set to be an important player for NZ over the next few years and could even feature at World Cup 2021 if selected by Michael Cheika alongside experienced players such as Lima Sopoaga and Conrad Smith.

25. Sakaria Taulafo

Career

• 2013–2018: Stade Français
• 2020: Glendale Raptors
• 2021: Rugby United New York
• 2003–05: Nelson Bays
• 2005–09: Tasman
• 2009: Samoa

Sakaria Taulafo is a Samoan rugby union player who has played for both Nelson College and Stade Français in the French Top 14. 

Although he started his career as a loosehead prop, Taulafo has since moved to flanker where his attacking play has earned him many admirers.

In 2018, Sakaria was named in the France squad for their tour of New Zealand and Australia but unfortunately suffered an ankle injury during training which ruled him out of contention for the entire tour. 

After returning from injury, Sakaria signed with London Wasps ahead of the 2020 season and will be looking to finally win silverware with his new team.

A powerful forward who can also run through opposing defenses at speed, Taulafo is one of the most exciting players on either side of the ball and should be a major threat this season Sakaria was born in Auckland, New Zealand, and played for Nelson Bays from 2003 to 2005. 

He then moved to play for United States-based rugby side Rugby United New York (RUNA) where he has been a regular starter since 2006.

Sakaria is known as an aggressive scrum half who loves to run with the ball at his feet. He made his international debut for Samoa in 2009 and has since played 44 matches, scoring 5 tries along the way. 

In 2013 Sakaria joined up with former All Blacks teammate Tony Woodcock at London Welsh RFC before moving back to RUNA later that year.

26. Nic Mayhew

Career

• 2010-11: North Harbour
• 2011-14: Harlequins
• 2011-12: Esher
• 2013-14: London Scottish
• 2014: North Harbour
• 2015−16: Blues
• 2017−2018: Brumbies
• 2022: Rugby New York

Nic Mayhew was born in Auckland, New Zealand on November 28th, 1989. He is 1.80 m tall and weighs 116 kg. Nic played rugby union for Rugby New York from 2013-2017 and made 27 appearances including 9 starts at loosehead prop.

In 2017, Nic signed with the British side Exeter Chiefs for the 2018 season but left after just one game due to injury Nic Mayhew has been a rugby player for over 10 years and has played for North Harbour, Harlequins, Esher, and London Scottish.

Nic is an experienced back-row forward who can play on both sides of the scrum. He made his debut for the Brumbies in 2017 and was part of the side that won 20 games during his two seasons with them. 

Nic is currently playing in America with Rugby New York, where he will join up with fellow Australia internationals Stephen Moore and Sekope Kepu.

27. Cathal Marsh

Career

• 2010: St Mary's College
• 2013–2018: Leinster
• 2019–2020: Rugby United New York
• 2011–2012: Ireland U20

Cathal Marsh is a fly-half who has played for Rugby United New York in the United States of America. 

CathalMarsh was born in Dublin, Ireland, and attended St Michael's College before studying at Trinity College, Dublin.

After playing rugby for various amateur teams, Marsh joined Rugby United New York ahead of the 2016 season. His versatility has seen him play both as a fly-half and center during his career to date. 

Cathal Marsh made his debut for Ireland against Italy in November 2013 and has since gone on to make five further appearances for his country – most recently against Tonga in June 2017.

Cathal Marsh is a talented rugby player who has spent his entire senior career with Leinster. He started off playing for Rugby United New York in the American Premier Division, but he quickly moved up to their first team and made an impact. 

Marsh was part of the Ireland U20s squad that competed at the 2012 IRB Junior World Championships and helped them reach the semi-finals where they were narrowly beaten by England.

In 2018, Marsh joined Leinster ahead of their Champions Cup campaign and impressed right from the start, scoring two tries in their opening game against Racing 92. 

He has since gone on to make 25 appearances for Leinster, including 22 starts, and finished as club captain during the 2019/2020 season before being replaced by Zane Kirchner at the end of the 2020/21 season.

28. Connor Wallace-Sims

Career

• 2003-2011: Devonport Services RFC
• 2011-2014: Exeter Chiefs
• 2013-2015: Canterbury RFC
• 2015: Old Blue
• 2019-present Rugby United New York
• 2014: USA u20s
• 2016: USA
• 2018: USA Falcons

Connor Wallace-Sims was born on 29 June 1995 in Plymouth, England. Connor started playing rugby union at a young age and rose through the ranks at Devonport Services RFC before moving to Exeter Chiefs in 2011.

Connor has made numerous appearances for England youth teams and is currently part of the Under 20 squad. In 2014, Connor announced his retirement from professional rugby after suffering an ankle injury that ended his season prematurely.

Since retiring from rugby, Connor has decided to focus on personal training and rehabilitation as he looks to continue playing football at a high level down the line. 

Connor Wallace-Sims is a rugby player who has represented the United States at both the U20 level and sevens.

Connor started playing rugby when he was just eight years old and quickly became a key member of his local club team. 

After impressing during trials for USA Rugby's Under 20 side, Connor made his debut in 2014 against Canada. In 2018, Connor played for the US Falcons in the World Cup Sevens Qualifying Tournament - helping them secure their place at this year's tournament in Japan.

Having previously attended Boston College on an athletic scholarship, it is no surprise that Connor is intelligent on the pitch; often making quick decisions under pressure to help his team win games. 

Averaging 45 points per season with RU New York since joining them in 2019, Connor remains one of America’s most promising players on the circuit - looking to take his game even further internationally next year.

29. Mike Petri

Career

• 2002–2006: Penn State Lions
• 2007–2009: NYAC RFC
• 2010: Sale
• 2011: Dragons
• 2018–2019: RUNY
• 2001–2003: United States U20
• 2007–2015: United States
• 2013: Bermuda Select XV

Mike Petri is a rugby union player and coach who has played for Penn State Lions, NYAC RFC, and the USA Eagles. He was part of the Xavier High School team that won the 1998 U19 national championships.

Mike Petri made his debut for Penn State in 2002 and went on to play over 100 games for them before leaving the university to join NYAC in 2007. 

In 2009 he was picked up by the USA Eagles squad for their Churchill Cup campaign and helped them win a silver medal after losing to France in the final game.

After playing 11 games for America during the 2010/11 season he retired from international rugby with 33 caps under his belt including 3 test matches against England (2005), Ireland (2007), and Scotland (2010). 

Nowadays Mike works as an assistant coach at Harlequins Rugby Club where he helps players develop their skills both on and off the field while also coaching younger players himself Mike Petri is a former American football coach and the player who most recently served as the head coach of NYAC RFC.

Prior to joining NYAC, Petri spent three years as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Rutgers University. Mike Petri played college football at Rutgers from 1991-1993 before being drafted in the second round of the 1993 NFL Draft by the Buffalo Bills. 

After playing for four teams over six seasons, including stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers, he retired from professional football in 1997. In 2002, Petri was hired as offensive coordinator for the newly formed Division II program at Rowan University.

where he stayed until 2007 when he was promoted to Head Coach and led RU to two conference championships and a berth in NCAA Bowl games after just five seasons on the job.

On December 4th, 2018 it was announced that Mike Petri would be taking over as head coach of NYAC RFC ahead of their inaugural season in 2019 a club that has been inactive since 2010.

30. Hanco Germishuys

Career

• 2014–15: Gloucester Academy
• 2015: Sharks Academy
• 2014–2015: West Omaha
• 2015–2016: Glendale Raptors
• 2017: Austin Huns
• 2010: Australia U20
• 2016: Denver Stampede
• 2018: Austin Elite
• 2019: Glendale Raptors
• 2020–2021: Rugby United New York
• 2022–: LA Giltinis
• 2011–2014: United States U19
• 2014–2016: United States U20
• 2016: USA Selects
• 2016: United States

Hanco Germishuys is a 26-year-old flanker who currently plays for LA Giltinis in the Italian rugby union championship. 

Germishuys was born and raised in Kimberley, South Africa, and played club rugby with Strand High School before coming to prominence at the youth level with Gloucester Academy, Sharks Academy, and most notably for Italy where he has made over 50 appearances.

Germishuys first came to attention as part of the Springbok Sevens team that won gold at the IRB Junior World Championship in 2012 but it was his performances for Italy during their latest Six Nations campaign that saw him earn selection into the senior squad ahead of this year's Rugby World Cup. 

A powerful tackler and good ball carrier, Hanco is likely to be an important player for Italy throughout 2019 until they qualify again for the global showpiece event next year Hanco Germishuys is a lock for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan.

He was born and raised in Pretoria, South Africa, but he now calls West Omaha home. Hanco Germishuys has been playing rugby since he was young and has quickly become one of the top players in the world. 

Hanco Germishuys has played for several teams around the world including Glendale Raptors, Austin Elite, Rugby United New York (RNY), LA Giltinis and more recently Denver Stampede where he currently plays as a fullback/flyhalf hybrid player. 

In 2015-2016 Hanco Germishuys helped lead his team to victory at The Americas Pacific Challenge tournament which qualified them for their first-ever appearance at the IRB World Club Championship where they reached the semi-finals before losing to eventual champions Harlequins RFC.

After helping RNY achieve promotion back to Super 14 competition this year Hanco Germishusy will be looking to help his new team reach even greater heights next season.

31. Brad Tucker

Career

• 2019–2022: Seattle Seawolves
• 2023: New York Ironworkers
• 2016: Waikato
• 2017: Taranaki
• 2018: Manawatu

Brad Tucker is a lock and flanker who has played for New Zealand since 2011. He started his rugby union career at St Bede's College in Christchurch before moving to St Pius X College in Auckland.

In 2013, he joined Lincoln University and made an immediate impact as a first-grade player. In 2016, he was named the Most Improved Player in the Hawke’s Bay region after helping Lincoln win their first title in over 30 years.

Tucker represented New Zealand Under 20s before making his full international debut against Scotland in June 2011 aged just 18 years old. 

He has won 24 caps for the All Blacks including appearances at the 2015 Rugby World Cup and 2017 Super Rugby season where they reached the final but lost to Australia Tucker played rugby for the Waikato in New Zealand before coming to the United States.

Tucker is a versatile player who can play as a flyhalf, fullback, or center. He has represented his country internationally and was part of the 2017 World Cup team that made it to the quarterfinals. 

Tucker signed with Seattle Seawolves in 2018 and has since been an important part of their squad, helping them reach the playoffs this season. 

Outside of rugby, Tucker enjoys playing tennis and golf and is also involved in charity work through his foundation which supports children's cancer research initiatives.

32. Luke Hume

Career

• 2009–11: New York Knights
• 2009–11: United States
• 2012–13: Old Blue RFC
• 2014–14: Narbonne
• 2019–21: Rugby United New York
• 2012–16: United States
• 2012–13: United States 

Luke Hume started playing rugby league at the age of five and quickly progressed through the ranks. After a successful year with New York Knights, Luke signed with the Newcastle Knights in 2011.

During his time at Newcastle, Luke made an impact both on and off the field as he helped lead them to back-to-back premierships in 2013 and 2014. In 2015, Luke joined Sydney Roosters where he has continued to be a key player for them over the past two seasons.

Luke is currently contracted to Sydney until 2020 which shows just how important he is to their team's success moving forward. With his explosive speed and hard-hitting playstyle, Luke is a force to be reckoned with on the field no matter who he's playing against.

Luke Hume is a fullback for Rugby United New York. He has represented the United States on both the senior and 7s national teams. Luke was born in England but moved to America when he was young, playing rugby there before moving to New York to play professionally.

Luke is one of RUNA's most experienced players, having played in 10 matches so far this season. His goal this year is to help lead his team to victory in the playoffs, which would earn them entry into the PRO14 competition next year. 

Luke's passion for rugby means that even when not playing he still helps out with coaching younger players at his club - an activity that he enjoys very much.

33. Chris Mattina

Career

• 2015–2017: Wilmington RFC
• 2017–2019: NYAC
• 2018: San Diego Legion
• 2019–2021: Rugby United New York
• 2022: Austin Gilgronis
• 2017: USA Falcons
• 2018: United States

Chris Mattina was born on 31 March 1993 in Manhattan, New York. Chris attended Xavier High School where he played for the rugby union team and graduated in 2012.

After graduation, Chris went to the University of Delaware where he played for the college side and captained the squad during his time there. 

In 2015, Chris joined Austin Gilgronis in their inaugural season as a professional club and has since made over 50 appearances for them across all positions including centre, wing, full back and fly half.

Outside of rugby union, Chris is involved with many charities that focus on helping children such as Make-A-Wish Foundation USA and Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C). 

He also volunteers his time coaching younger players at local clubs around New York City through Rugby For All NYC programme run by SU2C.

Having represented both America's National Team (the Eagles) at the U20 level before being called up to train with the senior side regularly throughout 2017Chris is now looking forward to representing his country at the international level later this year when they compete in The Americas Rugby Championship (CAR).

I’ve been playing rugby my whole life," says Mattina about why it became so important to him growing up "It was always something I enjoyed doing with my friends – we would go play outside or set up some makeshift goals inside our houses.

Rugbyunion's physicality appealed to me because you have to be able" -Mattina continues-"You can’t just depend on your athleticism; you have got to put in a lot of hard work too if you want results...you really feel like you are putting everything into it.

Playing professionally has definitely given me a new perspective on life," says Mattina who credits training sessions with Gilgronis alongside tough love from head coach Martin Skelton for moulding him into the player he is today Chris Mattina is a rugby player who has represented the United States in international competition. 

He was born and raised in Wilmington, Delaware, where he currently plays for Rugby United New York (RUNA). Mattina joined RUNA as a rookie in 2018 after playing college rugby at the American University of Rome. 

In his first season with RUNA, Chris helped the team take second place in the National Championship tournament - their best finish to date. As one of only two professional players on the team roster, Mattina brings valuable experience and leadership to RUNA during their inaugural season as an organization. 

Chris is also a member of the USA Falcons Sevens team, which competed at both the World Series tournaments this year and next summer’s Olympics Qualifiers tournament ahead of Tokyo 2020 – his home country’s bid for Olympic gold.

34. Paddy Ryan

Career

• 2014: Sydney Stars
• 2016–2018: NSW Country Eagles
• 2018–: Munakata Sanix Blues
• 2018–: San Diego Legion
• 2011–2018: Waratahs
• 2012–2014: Australia

Paddy Ryan is a prop for the Dolphin RFC in the USA. He was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois. Paddy played rugby union as a youngster with Highfield RFC before joining Dolphin RFC in 2017.

Paddy is tall at 1.85 m (6 ft 1 inch) and weighs 350 lb (160 kg). His brothers, Dave and Tim, also play rugby union professionally Patrick Ryan is a professional rugby player who has played for several teams in his senior career, most notably Rugby Viadana and London Welsh.

He has also represented Newcastle Falcons and Bath in the English Premiership, as well as playing for Austin Elite and Rugby United New York in the USA's PRO14 competition. 

In 2018, he joined the newly-formed team Rugby Viadana after previously spending two seasons with London Welsh.

Paddy is known for his strong running ability and hard work on the pitch - attributes that have earned him numerous accolades throughout his career. 

He is currently contracted to Rugby Viadana until 2020, at which point he will likely retire from professional rugby altogether to focus on other interests outside of football.

35. Sean McNulty

Career

• 2006–2007: Bahrain RFC
• 2011–2014: Munster Rugby
• 2015–2016: Leinster Rugby
• 2016–2018: Leinster A
• 2019–2020: New England
• 2019: RUNY (loan)
• 2021: LA Giltinis
• 2013: Ireland Schoolboys
• 2014: Ireland U19
• 2014–2015: Ireland U20

Sean McNulty is a hooker for Munster Rugby and Leinster Rugby. He made his senior debut for Munster in 2016 and has since played 26 games for the province.

Sean was born in London, England, in 1995. After playing rugby union at Rockwell College and University College Dublin (UCD), he joined Bahrain RFC in 2015 as a development player before moving to Munster the following year.

In 2018 he signed with Worcester Warriors on a two-year contract from 2019 onwards. Sean McNulty is a professional rugby player who has played for both Ireland and Leinster. Sean McNulty was born in Co Carlow, Ireland on 5 January 1998.

Sean McNulty first came to prominence as a schoolboy with Ireland, playing in the Under-18 Junior World Championship and then captaining the side at the Under-20 level before graduating to senior status with Leinster A in 2018. 

In his debut season with Leinster A, Sean McNulty helped guide the team to promotion from the PRO12 competition.

Their first-ever league title - culminating in him being named Player of the Year awardee by both his club and country following an impressive year that also saw him make his international début against Wales at Aviva Stadium on 6 September 2018.

Ahead of the 2019–20 season, it was announced that McNulty had signed a loan deal with New England Patriots based out of Boston until May 2020 whilst he continues preparations for selection for Ireland’s forthcoming Six Nations campaign which begins against Italy on 2 February 2020.

36. Marcus Satavu

Career

• 2016: Brooklyn Kings
• 2007–2014: US Air Force
• 2014: OMBAC Rugby
• 2015: Hartford Wanderers
• 2015–2016: Mystic River
• 2019-: Rugby United New York
• 2012–2014: USA 7s

Marcus Satavu was born in Portland, Oregon on November 22nd 1988. He attended Southern Connecticut State University and played for the rugby league team Brooklyn Kings in 2016.

Marcus is a centre and second rower who has represented his country at the international level. His favourite sport is Rugby Union and he currently plays for Saracens RFC in England Marcus Satavu is an outside centre who has played for the US Air Force and Hartford Wanderers in the American rugby union league.

He has also represented Mystic River RFC, New Haven RFC and Rugby United New York (RUNY) in the USA Sevens Series over a period of four years.

Satavu made his senior international debut for Fiji in 2018 at the age of 24 and was selected to play at the 2019 World Cup later that year where he started all three matches as Fiji reached the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Scotland.

Marcus' family originates from Samoa which means that he qualifies to play for both Fiji and Samoa internationally - something which will be relevant should either side qualify for next year's Rugby League World Cup as a result of their recent Pacific Nations Cup campaign. 

The outside centre is generally seen as one of rugby's most difficult positions to fill but with Marcus' experience, versatility and skill set there isn't much doubt that he can make an impact on any team he joins going forward.

37. Josh Thiel

Career

• 2015-2016: Abbotsford RFC
• 2018-2019: James Bay Athletic Association
• 2019: Pacific Pride
• 2020-: San Diego Legion
• 2018: BC Bears
• 2017: Canada U20
• 2018: Canada
• 2019: Canada

Josh Thiel was born on 2 June 1997 in Victoria, British Columbia. He attended Robert Bateman Secondary school and studied at Bishop Burton College. 

In 2018-2019, he played for Abbotsford RFC in the James Bay Athletic Association and also represented Pacific Pride during their campaign in the Americas Rugby Championship (ARCA).

Josh is currently a standoff for the BC Bears in the Canadian Rugby Union (CRU) Premier Division competition. 

His father Jon is a former professional rugby union player who represented Canada internationally, while his brother Jake has also played professionally with Newcastle Falcons and London Irish respectively Josh Thiel joined the San Diego Legion in 2020 as a senior player.

Josh played for BC Bears and Canada U20s in junior rugby, before making his debut with the national team in 2017. Josh was part of Canada's World Rugby Sevens Series campaign this year, playing both at the center and on the wing. He scored one try during their run to the semi-finals. 

Josh is an intelligent attacking player who can also contribute strongly off the bench, which will be crucial for San Diego Legion if they are to challenge for championships next season.

38. Dave Gannon

Career

• 2004–2005: Leinster
• 2005–2008: Connacht
• 2009: Southland
• 2009–2011: Exeter
• 2011–2013: Connacht
• 2018: RUNY
• 2004: Ireland U21
• 2007: Ireland A

Dave Gannon is a lock for RUNY and has been involved in rugby union since 2004. He attended Blackrock College before studying at University College Dublin, where he played for the university's team.

After playing professionally with London Welsh between 2009-2011, Dave joined RUNY during the 2012 season. Dave has represented Ireland at the under-21 level and was called up to the senior squad in 2013.

In October 2014, he made his debut for Ireland against Scotland and went on to make five more appearances that year as well as appearing in their 2015 World Cup campaign. Ireland's matches so far this year include their victory over Australia which secured them a place at Rugby World Cup 2019.

Outside of rugby, Dave enjoys spending time with his family and friends as well as traveling; he recently spent time in New Zealand. Dave Gannon was a rugby player who represented Ireland internationally. He first played for Leinster in 2001 and went on to play 67 matches for them, scoring 34 tries along the way.

In 2006 he signed with Connacht where he would play 20 matches before moving to Exeter in 2009. His final match for Southland came in 2013 against Counties Manukau at Westpac Stadium, Wellington New Zealand.

After his retirement from playing rugby, Gannon became a coach with both Connacht and Leinster as well as working as an analyst with RTÉ Sport during their coverage of internationals and Pro14 games respectively.

Dave has two daughters - one was born after his retirement from professional rugby while the other was born while he was still playing professionally which made her something of a celebrity amongst her peers at school. 

 Dave Gannon is undoubtedly one of Ireland’s most successful rugby players ever having won 68 caps between 2001-2013 representing his country 33 times scoring 30 tries including 3 Grand Slams (2002/03/05). 

A powerful runner and tackler Dave also enjoyed considerable success when captaining Leinster (2001-2006) winning 2 Celtic League titles (2002 & 2005); 1 IRB Champions Cup Title (2005); being a runner in the European Challenge Cup 2003; being semi-finalist 2002. 

Anglo Irish cup; co-winners 2004 Six Nations Championship & 2007 Rugby World Cup qualifiers making him arguably one of Europe’s most decorated captains over that period despite never wearing the green shirt full time due to injury or suspension throughout those 6 years.

39. Mike Tolkin

Career

• 1992: United States U-19 (Backs coach)
• 2000-2012: NYAC
• 2008–2012: United States (Defence coach)
• 2012–2015: United States (Head coach)
• 2016–2017: NYAC
• 2018–2019: RUNY

Tolkien was born on November 13th, 1967 in Queens, New York. Tolkien attended Xavier High School where he played rugby union for the varsity team. 

After graduating from high school, Tolkien went to St John's University and graduated with a degree in business administration.

Tolkien began his coaching career at SUNY Canton as an assistant coach under Rick Fesmire before moving on to Richmond RFC where he served as head coach from 1987 to 2002. 

In 2003, Tolkien took over the reins of the USA national team after previous coaches George Gregan and Eddie O'Sullivan left their positions prematurely due to health concerns caused by head injuries sustained while playing professional rugby union tournaments around the world.

Under Tolkin's guidance, the US national team made it all the way up to fourth place at Rugby World Cup 2011 before eventually losing out in a heartbreaking semifinal match against France XV (the eventual winners of that tournament). 

On October 1st, 2015 Mike announced his retirement as Head Coach of Richmond following 22 years guiding them through both success and heartache; during which time they won 8 trophies including 4 Premiership titles (2002-2005), 2 Amlin Challenge Cups (2003 & 2005) and 3 Home Unions Championships (1996-1999).

Despite announcing his retirement earlier this year, however, rumors persist that he could be joining England side Bath as Assistant Coach or even taking over permanently should they make any significant changes/improvements during their upcoming season stay tuned. 

Tolkien has been the head coach of Xavier High School since 2016. Tolkien was formerly the defensive coordinator for NYAC from 2008-2012 and then again from 2012-2015. 

In his previous coaching roles, Tolkien has had success with developing young players into successful collegiate athletes.

As a player, Tolkin starred at Brown University before playing professionally in Israel and Cyprus. After retiring as a player, Tolkien returned to Brown as an assistant coach under the former.

Philadelphia Eagles head coach Andy Reid in the 2004-2005 season before moving on to be an assistant at Syracuse University under Dino Babers in the 2006-2007 season where he helped guide the Orange to their first NCAA Final Four appearance in over 40 years. 

Tolkien is widely respected within the coaching community and is considered one of the top defensive minds in America today.

Final Words

Rugby New York is an exciting and rapidly growing professional rugby union team based in New York. Some of the best players to ever play for Rugby New York include All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Wallabies star Israel Folau, and former England international Chris Robshaw.

These three players are all legends of the game, and their accomplishments speak for themselves.