Major League Rugby Assigns Pakisonasi Afu to Utah Warriors

SALT LAKE CITY (22 February 2018) Utah Warriors Release.

“Major League Rugby today announced the assignment of Paki Sonasi Afu to the Utah Warriors from Austin Elite Rugby for the 2018 Major League Rugby (MLR) season.

Afu, a former Sydney Rooster’s National Rugby League standout, and Mate Ma’a Tonga representative has switched codes to Rugby Union and made a recent debut with Tonga A in 2017. The 6’3” and 250 lb utility back will bring professionalism and experience to the MLR.

As part of the player re-allocation, Austin Elite Rugby have been granted undisclosed accommodations from Major League Rugby that come to them via the Utah Warriors.

“We wish Paki all the best as he continues with his MLR journey” commented Alain Hyardet, Austin Elite Rugby Head Coach.

“Major League Rugby is committed to the best interest of players and teams, and this re-assignment fairly positions both Austin and Utah to put forward the most competitive teams possible for the upcoming season,” commented Nic Benson, Deputy Commissioner Major League Rugby.

Utah Warriors CEO and GM echoed Benson’s sentiment.

“We’re excited to welcome such a dynamic player like Paki to the Warriors family,” Kjar said, “He’ll easily add some power to our backline and we’re looking forward to seeing him in the Black and Red.”

Pakisonasi Afu & Austin Elite Rugby

DJCoil Rugby published the Austin Elite Rugby Management Release: Nov. 1, 2017, Austin, TX

“Austin Elite Rugby Management announces the signing of Pakisonasi Afu in the midfield for the 2018 Major League Rugby season.

Paki is 6’3”, 250lbs, and 27 years old. He is a native of Auckland, New Zealand, where he graduated from Onehunga High School. He attended St. Paul’s College, and has played for a variety of clubs, namely the Tonga National Team, Sydney Roosters (NRL), Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs (NRL), Parramatta Eels (NRL), Mate Ma’a Tonga, Junior Kiwis, St Paul’s College, Counties Manukau Rugby Union, Manurewa Rugby Union, Pt Chevalier Pirates, The Wyong Roos, and Bay Roskill Vikings.

Paki loves his wife’s “Date Night Chicken” as his favorite food. He speaks four languages and served an LDS mission in the Philippines. He is looking forward to a new adventure in Austin.”