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Seattle Seawolves flanker Vili Toluta’u has been called up to the US Eagles squad for the June test series against Russia, Scotland, and Canada. The former Junior All-American has been the breakout star of the inaugural Major League Rugby season and is rewarded with his first senior call-up. He replaces the unavailable Tony Lamborn on Gary Gold’s 31-man roster.
Not only is it a special moment for Toluta’u, 24, but also for the league as a whole. He represents the first Eagles selection based primarily on MLR form. Paul Mullen of the Houston SaberCats is also uncapped but had already been earmarked at the problematic tighthead prop position and had not appeared in the regular season prior to his naming in the squad.
Toluta’u is the fourth Seawolves player to be summoned to international duty. Loosehead prop Olive Kilifi is on the Eagles roster while hooker Ray Barkwill and player-coach Phil Mack will join up with Canada.
It’s notable that Toluta’u was initially training in the hooker position with Seattle until an injury to Riekert Hattingh saw him make a significant impact as a replacement flanker in the season opener. He has started at flanker ever since. His strength over the ball in defense, powerful ball-carrying ability, and trademark hairstyle have marked him as one of the league’s standout players.
