Rugby is not as popular in the United States as it is in other countries, so the number of American rugby players who have made a significant impact on the sport is relatively small. However, there are still several outstanding men and women players who have made a name for themselves at the international level.

Here are some of the best American rugby players of all time:

Best American Men’s Rugby Players

Dan Lyle – A former captain of the US national rugby team, Dan Lyle is considered one of the best American rugby players of all time. He played for both the London Wasps and Bath Rugby clubs in England, and was inducted into the USA Rugby Hall of Fame in 2016.

Todd Clever

Another former captain of the US national rugby team, Todd Clever is widely regarded as one of the most talented American rugby players of all time. He played professionally for the Lions in South Africa, and later in Japan. Clever was inducted into the USA Rugby Hall of Fame in 2020.

Mike Hercus

A former fly-half for the US national rugby team, Mike Hercus played professionally in both England and Australia. He is widely regarded as one of the best American rugby players of all time, and was inducted into the USA Rugby Hall of Fame in 2019.

Chris Wyles

A versatile back who could play at fullback, wing, or centre, Chris Wyles played professionally for the Saracens in England. He is widely regarded as one of the best American rugby players of all time, and was inducted into the USA Rugby Hall of Fame in 2021.

Blaine Scully

A former captain of the US national rugby team, Blaine Scully played professionally in both England and Wales. He is widely regarded as one of the most talented American rugby players of all time, and was inducted into the USA Rugby Hall of Fame in 2022.

Best American Men’s Rugby Players

There have been many talented American women rugby players throughout history, and here are some of the best:

Phaidra Knight

Considered one of the greatest American rugby players of all time, Phaidra Knight was a fixture on the USA women’s rugby team for over a decade. She was a powerful, athletic forward who could play both flanker and lock positions.

Sharon Blaney

Another legend of American women’s rugby, Sharon Blaney was a fierce and skilled player who represented the USA on the international stage for many years. She was a versatile player who could play both forward and back positions.

Kristine Sommer

A talented back who played fullback and wing, Kristine Sommer was a key member of the USA women’s rugby team during the 1990s and early 2000s. She was known for her speed and agility, as well as her ability to read the game.

Patty Jervey

A standout player in both rugby and soccer, Patty Jervey was a member of the first-ever USA women’s rugby team in 1987. She played as a flyhalf and was known for her vision and playmaking ability.

Emilie Bydwell

A dynamic and athletic flanker, Emilie Bydwell was a key member of the USA women’s rugby team from 2006 to 2017. She played in three Rugby World Cups and was known for her hard work, toughness, and leadership on the field.

Jillion Potter

A versatile player who could play both forward and back positions, Jillion Potter was a member of the USA women’s rugby team from 2007 to 2018. She played in two Rugby World Cups and was known for her strength, speed, and physicality.

Joanne Liu

A skilled flyhalf who represented the USA on the international stage for many years, Joanne Liu was known for her tactical awareness and accurate kicking. She played in three Rugby World Cups and was a key member of the USA team during the 1990s and early 2000s.

These are just a few of the many talented American women rugby players who have represented the USA with distinction over the years.

Wrapping up

So there they are, the best American men’s and women’s rugby players. With rugby’s growing popularity in the U.S., we expect this list to change over time.

Thanks for reading!

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