Former pro rugby player signs contract to play American Football

Former pro rugby player signs a contract to play American Football in Canada.

Tadhg Leader came through the Connacht academy after finishing school. He was born in Galway and went to secondary school in Cistercian College Roscrea. Leader’s home club is Galwegians RFC where he began his rugby. He played for Connacht underage teams throughout his youth and graduated from the academy in 2011.After multiple injury setbacks Leader left Connacht and signed with Italian club Rugby Badia ASD in the Italian Serie A.

USA
Tadhg Leader played an integral role for the San Diego Legion in the inaugural season of Major League Rugby back in 2018. Leader was regularly the starting out-half for the Legion. Following the 2018 season, Leader signed with the New England Free Jacks who entered Major League Rugby in 2020. Due to the outbreak of Covid-19, the league cancelled the 2020 season of MLR after only 5 rounds.

While at the New England Free Jacks, Leader earned his first call-up to play for the USA national team. He would earn a few caps for the Eagles before making the big decision in 2020 to try and become an NFL placekicker.

It was announced earlier this week that Leader joined CFL side Hamilton Tiger-Cats for the upcoming season. The CFL is the Canadian version of the NFL however, not all of the playing rules are the same.

I'm over the moon to announce I've signed with @Ticats of the @CFL! I can’t wait to continue the journey with such a prestigious organization. Looking forward to proudly flying the Irish flag in Canada! #CFL #Ticats #YearOfTheTiger https://t.co/AjTAjARYYA

— Tadhg Leader (@TadhgLeader) February 23, 2022