Olympic medallist joins Seattle Seawolves in blockbuster move

Major League Rugby powerhouse Seattle Seawolves have signed Olympic silver medallist Mark Bennett for the 2026 season, with the former World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year nominee adding invaluable experience to the roster.

Bennett has already played more than 170 professional club games and made 29 international appearances for Scotland. The midfielder represented Glasgow Warriors across two stints, and spent time with ASM Clermont Auvergne in France and Scottish side Edinburgh Rugby.

After graduating from Scotland U20 level into the senior ranks, Bennett went on to score 40 points for the national side. The centre scored four tries at the 2015 Rugby World Cup, and was rewarded with a nomination for World Rugby’s breakthrough honour.

Bennett has also represented Team GB in rugby sevens, selected in the squad for the 2016 Summer Olympics. Great Britain qualified for the gold medal match but were defeated by Fiji, with sevens making a memorable debut on the world’s biggest sporting stage.

After eight seasons with Edinburgh, the Scotland international heads stateside, adding world-class experience to the Seawolves. Seattle haven’t won MLR since 2019, when they went back-to-back in the league’s first two seasons.

“Mark is an exceptional talent and an outstanding individual who will add value to the entire team. His drive for excellence is infectious, and his leadership skills will undoubtedly inspire the whole squad,” coach Allen Clarke said in a statement.

“I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know him over the past few months, and it’s clear that he’s genuinely passionate about joining a club that shares his ambition to win and grow the game in the US. I’m excited to work with him and look forward to the positive impact he’ll have on our team.”

Bennett added: “I’m really excited for the opportunity to represent the Seattle Seawolves and experience all that Seattle has to offer. Having watched the Seawolves play, the entertaining brand of rugby is one I can absolutely buy in to and look forward to putting my stamp on.”

Seattle have also announced a crucial re-signing ahead of the new campaign, with Canadian-eligible South African hooker Dewald Kotze putting pen to paper on a new deal. Kotze was a difference-maker for the Seawolves during his rookie season with the club.

Kotze has made more than 50 MLR appearances, which has included 37 starts. The front-rower initially represented Dallas Jackals in MLR, before going on to make his Canada debut in a 35-22 win over Romania last year.

In the 2024 MLR season, Kotze finished as tied third overall for total tries with 11. The Canadian international set an MLR record with five tries in one game, and was rewarded that season with All-MLR Honourable Mention XV selection.

“We’re delighted to share the news that Dewy has agreed to a contract extension, securing his place on our team through the 2026 season,” Clarke explained.

“His outstanding blend of professionalism, reliability, and competitive spirit is crucial to driving our team’s long-term success.“