Rugby ATL have secured first round draft pick Mike Matarazzo for the 2021 Major League Rugby season. The 22-year-old lock or No8 from the University of Notre Dame was originally destined for Durham University in the UK but has now committed to the North American competition.
Originally from Staten Island, New York, Matarazzo was an accomplished baseball player before turning his focus to rugby in college. He earned Collegiate All-American honors in 2018 and captained the Fighting Irish in his last two seasons. Standing 6’5″ (1.96m), Matarazzo has a good mix of size and athleticism.
There are now nine forwards officially signed by ATL for the 2021 season, among them returning locks Conor Keys and Marno Redelinghuys. It is not yet confirmed whether their second round selection, Arkansas State three-quarter John Scotti, has been signed on a senior deal.