Wallabies Test centurion Adam Ashley-Cooper has joined the growing list of Australian stars at Major League Rugby’s glamour club, the LA Giltinis.
The four-time Rugby World Cup veteran has inked one-year deal ahead of Major League Rugby kicking off in March.
Only 16 players in rugby history have played more Tests than Ashley-Cooper (121) over his 15-year run (2005-19) which netted 39 tries.
“The opportunity to play rugby in the US, travel the country to enjoy everything it has to offer and share in a real movement of rapid growth for the game is very appealing,” Ashley-Cooper said.
“Having played in France and Japan, I’ve really enjoyed embracing different cultures but also the Barbarians-style dynamic within those teams of players from around the world.
“It’s a hard thing to turn down with that same dynamic at the Giltinis.
“Everyone talks about the LA lifestyle and I want to experience the very positive culture of big, loud and fun in their sports.”
Ashley-Cooper joins Dave Dennis, Harrison Goddard, Luke Burton, Angus Cottrell and Billy Meakes as the other Aussies in LA, coached by Shute Shield legend, Darren Coleman.
“I’ve had a long association with Adam back to club rugby at Norths in Sydney in 2006,” Coleman said.
“He’s the consummate professional and will bring amazing experience and competitiveness to the Giltinis.
“His presence will be invaluable for the young American and Canadian outside backs in our squad and Adam will have a fair bit of input to tactics and our game plans.”
The Giltinis make their exciting MLR debut at home against the New England Free Jacks on March 20.
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