The Toronto Arrows signed their first-round draft selection, the fifth pick in the 2022 Collegiate draft, Owain Ruttan, for the 2023 Major League Rugby season. The 24-year-old back row is 6’3″ and 230 lbs.
Owain joins the team after graduating from the University of British Columbia in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Computer Science, Chemistry, and Biology, as well as a Bachelor of Education degree. He was the captain of the rugby team and helped led the team to the 2021 Canadian University Men’s Rugby Championship and the 2021-2022 British Columbia Premier League Championship.
He also received Academic All-Canadian honors and represented Canada at the 2018 World Rugby Under-20 Trophy in Romania. He also played with the Ontario Blues junior men’s provincial program.
The Cobourg, Ontario native also played rugby for the Cobourg Saxons and the Peterborough Pagans.
Toronto Arrows Comments
“To be drafted by the Arrows was an incredible experience, and I’m very excited to have signed my first contract,” said Ruttan. “I’m ready to come in, work hard, and put everything I have into this opportunity.”
“There’s something pretty special about being selected by Toronto,” added Ruttan, who pointed out a pre-existing family connection with the club. “Both my mom and my grandfather are Arrows season ticket holders, and really enjoyed going to the games at York Lions Stadium last season.”
“I’m really looking forward to having the opportunity to play in front of family and friends.”
“Another local signing, Owain was massive for UBC in his career there, both as a player and a leader,” said Mark Winokur, Toronto Arrows Chief Operating Officer, and General Manager. “He brings size and toughness to the back row, with a work ethic to match.”
Off the pitch, Ruttan currently serves as a teacher and rugby coach in Vancouver.
