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Former Houston SaberCats hooker Pat O’Toole will return to Major League Rugby in 2021, signing a two-year deal with the NOLA Gold. The 25-year-old did not play in the 2020 season, opting to pursue an opportunity with Glasgow Warriors, subsequently turning out with All-Ireland League side Garryowen.
Irish-born but Eagles-eligible, O’Toole represented the USA Select XV at the 2018 Americas Pacific Challenge after turning out for the San Diego Legion during the inaugural 2018 MLR campaign. He had previously represented Ireland up to u19 level while part of Connacht’s academy program.
The addition gives the Gold impressive depth at hooker. Canadian international Eric Howard is the incumbent starter with Collegiate All-American flanker Kevin O’Connor making the transition to the front row and USA u20 rep Stephen McLeish also providing cover. Cam Falcon, another USA Select who has played both hooker and tighthead prop, continues to be available but will spend less time on the pitch this season as he focuses on the completion of his law degree.
