Ron Estrada Director of Outreach and Development | LinkedIn
Ron Estrada Director of Outreach and Development | LinkedIn
Chicago's professional rugby team, the Hounds, has announced contract extensions for two domestic players. Flanker Lucas Rumball and wing Michael Hand II have both agreed to new terms with the franchise.
Lucas Rumball, a Canadian international, has extended his stay with the Hounds after joining them at the start of the 2024 season. Previously, he spent five seasons with the Toronto Arrows. During this past season, Rumball appeared in 12 matches and registered 628 minutes on the field. Known for his defensive skills, he completed 110 out of 116 tackle attempts (95%) and achieved 54 breakdown steals throughout his career.
Rumball is not only recognized in Major League Rugby but also serves as captain of Canada's national team with over 40 caps. He earned First-Team All-Pro honors in 2021 after an impressive performance that included career highs of 19 breakdown steals and 228 tackles.
The extension of Mac Jones' contract last season formed a strong openside flanker partnership with Rumball—a dynamic expected to continue as both players remain under contract.
The Hounds have also secured Michael Hand II's future with the club. The Irish wing made a significant impact during his rookie season after being loaned to Miami Sharks for additional playing time. In eight appearances, Hand managed six starts and accumulated 238 meters from just 24 carries, scoring three tries along the way.
Before joining the Hounds, Hand was notable in Ireland's Cork Constitution team and excelled in American collegiate rugby at Baylor University where he won Player of the Year honors in Red River Conference (2022). Additionally representing USA Age-Grade teams since earning selection to USA Under-20s back then—currently training at Olympic Training Center Chula Vista California featuring prominently on USA Sevens Developmental Team lineup lately
Previously announced were contract extensions for other key players like Luke White Bryce Campbell Noah Brown alongside second-team all-pro flanker Mac Jones tied until end next campaign too
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