New MLR franchise unveils Australian-born USA Eagle as first signing

New Major League Rugby side California Legion have announced their first signing in franchise history, with Australian-born USA Eagles backrower Christian Poidevin committing to the club ahead of the 2026 season.

Poidevin is one of just two players who have been unveiled by the Legion, two months out from round one, with USA Eagles captain Jason Damm putting pen to paper as well. Damm joins the Legion after stints with the Glendale Raptors, Rugby ATL and Rugby Football Club Los Angeles.

California will debut in MLR this season following a merger between the San Diego Legion and RFCLA. All Blacks great Ma’a Nonu and former Wallabies playmaker Matt Giteau were among the big-name players who represented San Diego during their time in the league.

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The Legion have recently announced that former Wallaby Stephen Hoiles will lead the management group as an experienced Head Coach. 2014 Super Rugby-winning captain with the NSW Waratahs, Dave Dennis, is one of California’s assistant coaches.

Poidevin debuted in MLR with the LA Giltinis, making 12 appearances as the franchise charged towards the Championship that season. The loose forward started 14 of 16 games the following season, standing out as an especially impressive defender during that campaign.

The 27-year-old would later sign with the San Diego Legion ahead of the 2023 season, spending a few seasons in red and black. Following last season’s MLR campaign, Poidevin was selected to represent the USA Eagles in the Pacific Nations Cup and November internationals.

Poidevin has played almost 60 matches in MLR, crossing for 18 tries and making just shy of 700 tackles. While the Legion have only announced two player signings at the time of writing, the combination of Poidevin and Damm in the forwards makes for an exciting prospect.

“I’m proud to be returning to the Legion for this exciting new venture in California.” Poidevin said in a statement.

“California has been home for the past five years, during which I’ve had the privilege of representing both San Diego and Los Angeles.

The Legion organization and its incredible fans have played a huge role in my journey, and I’m eager to keep building with them this season.

I can’t wait for the year ahead and to connect with our supporters once again.”

Poidevin represented the USA in matches against Spain and England during the July international window, before making another two appearances off the pine during the PNC. The Australian was named in the run-on side at openside flanker against Eddie Jones’ Japan.

Future California Legion teammates Poidevin and Damm traded places on the field during a 43-30 loss to Rugby World Cup regulars Georgia on November 8. Damm started in the second row but Poidevin replaced the skipper with about 10 minutes left in that fixture.