Seattle re-sign former South Africa U20 fly-half with World Cup ambitions

Former South Africa U20 fly-half David ‘Davy’ Coetzer has set his sights on Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 in Australia, with the soon-to-be US-qualified prospect determined to represent the USA Eagles after re-signing with the Seattle Seawolves.

Coetzer got a taste of representative rugby earlier this year, with USA XV coach Scott Lawrence including the playmaker in the side to face an Argentina XV in Miami. The 27-year-old is currently part of the squad that’s facing a stacked Australia A squad in two matches.

Plettenberg Bay-born Coetzer won’t be eligible to represent the USA Eagles at international level until next year, but was able to face the Argentinian XV as it wasn’t a Test. The same would apply if Coetzer takes the field against Australia A this weekend in New Jersey.

The University of Pretoria product moved to the United States ahead of the 2022 MLR season after signing with the Houston SaberCats, making 15 appearances as the club reached the playoffs for the first time.

Coetzer earned All MLR Second XV honours the next season after scoring 135 points, and now has more than 450 points to his name across five campaigns. Seattle signed Coetzer ahead of the 2026 season, with the goal-kicker starring as the Seawolves reached the semi-finals.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Davy back for another season. He’s a fantastic person and teammate who brings energy, commitment and care to everything he does. He has a real influence on the group, not just through his performances on the field, but through the standards he sets, the way he competes and how he contributes to the team environment,” Allen Clarke, Director of Rugby and head coach, said.

“As a US-qualified player, he’s determined to represent the Eagles at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, and we’re excited to support that ambition. I believe Davy has an important role to play in driving this team forward, and I’m excited to see the impact he’ll make with the Seawolves in 2027.”

Coetzer added: “I’m very excited to return to the Seawolves next season and contribute to an exciting brand of rugby and continue the hunt for the MLR shield.”