The NOLA Gold are moving quickly to secure their top talent for the new season. Eric Howard is the latest, the captain signing a two-year extension with the club that sees him staying in New Orleans through the 2021 Major League Rugby season. He follows Tristan Blewett’s recent extension, with Scott Gale already under contract for 2020.
It’s great news for Howard and NOLA fans. The Canadian international started 14 games in his second season with the club, playing over 1,000 minutes and scoring 9 tries. Howard’s mobility in the loose marks him as one of the top hookers in the league and at just 25 years old his best years are still ahead.
In the meantime he will suit up for Canada in the Pacific Nations Cup with an eye to securing his spot in the upcoming World Cup. NOLA teammates Hubert Buydens and Kyle Baillie will also play for Canada, with both currently out of contract at the Gold.