The Toronto Arrows signed Canada-eligible center Nic Benn for the 2023 Major League Rugby season. The 21-year-old center/wing (22 in April) is 6’2″ and 205 lbs.
Nic joins the team after playing with the Manly Marlins in the Shute Shield and also playing with the club’s under-20 program.
Nic was born in Newcastle, Australia, but lived in Smithers, B.C. from ages 4 to 9 before returning to Australia. While in Canada, he played youth hockey.
His mother was born and raised in British Columbia which makes him Canadian eligible and a domestic player for the Arrows.
In Sydney, Australia he played for Lake Macquarie Rugby Club while in high school, as well as the NSW County representative side. He played rugby sevens with the Western Sydney Two Blues, which led to his selection to the Australia Under-18s for the World School 7s in Auckland, New Zealand in 2019. In 2020 he also played for Hunter Junior Rugby Union.
Toronto Arrows Comments
“Ever since Major League Rugby came into existence and the Arrows started playing in 2019, it’s been a goal of mine to play in and play for Canada,” said Benn. “I can’t wait to return to Canada and start my MLR career in Toronto.”
“Nic is an exciting Canada-eligible back who has been playing very well in the Shute Shield and we are very keen to see him over here next season,” said Mark Winokur, Toronto Arrows Chief Operating Officer, and General Manager. “He has a bright future in pro and Canadian rugby, and we can’t wait to get him started on that path.”
