Long-time USA star Danny Barrett has confirmed his retirement from rugby. The 33-year-old most recently turned out for the Houston SaberCats in Major League Rugby. He has now taken up an Executive Director role with the Golden Eagles, a non-profit organization that provides financial support to the USA’s men’s and women’s sevens sides.
Barrett was a 1st team Collegiate All-American in both 7s and 15s with the Cal Golden Bears before making the jump to full international honors in 2014. He played 13 tests for the USA as a loose forward and earned selection to the 2015 World Cup. In the shortened code he was even more prominent, playing 54 World Sevens Series events and competing at the 2016 and 2021 Olympic Games.
After stepping away from international rugby Barrett joined the SaberCats ahead of the 2022 MLR campaign. Across two seasons he made 28 appearances, playing largely at openside flanker, and captained the side on four occasions this past year. Houston made the playoffs in both years.
Barrett released a statement on social media:
“Thank you, rugby, for all you have done. It’s time that I call it a career and move into the next chapter. Thank you for the learnings, the memories, friendships, relationships, and family you have given me. I had some of the best times of my life because of you. You gave me a beautiful wife Megan, a beautiful daughter, a friend group anyone would be jealous of, and more scars than I can count. You have been gracious to my family and for that I am forever indebted to you.”