Todd Clever leaves Super 14 for Japan!
by Paki's Corner | 21 June 2010 (11:05)
It’s official – the most recognized American rugby player of all time has signed with Japanese club Suntory! I was fortunate to catch up with Todd during the recent Churchill Cup tournament in Glendale Colorado, and he finally told me this week I can break this news via EaglesXV.com!
So here is the press release – only a few hours old!
AMERICAN RUGBY STAR TODD CLEVER MOVES FROM SOUTH AFRICA LIONS TO SUNTORY OF JAPAN
Flanker Leaves Super 14 to Join Top League in Japan, Focus on USA Rugby
JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA (June 21, 2010) – After three seasons as a Lion, flanker Todd Clever says goodbye to the South Africa team and turns to new opportunities with Japan-based Suntory. The move will allow the 27-year-old Clever not only to prove himself in another league, but also to spend more time playing and promoting rugby in his home country.
“I will always be a Lion, but it is now time to take the next step in my career and explore new challenges,” Clever said. “I have decided to continue my playing career in Japan and also focus on helping USA Rugby reach higher plateaus of achievement.”
Clever departs from South Africa on good terms, taking with him fond memories of the team he is leaving behind.
“I am thankful for the opportunities that the Lions have given me,” said Clever, the only American playing in the Super 14 league. “I have had three seasons here – two Super 14s and a Currie Cup. I have had three coaches and have won over each of them by showing my dedication and heart. I have been proud to put on the Lions jersey week in and week out.”
Though Clever will be playing elsewhere, he will be watching his former teammates from afar, and he expects to see great things.
“I have had the best teammates a player can ask for, and I am excited for their future progress. The team is about to turn the corner. Though I am sad I can’t take the ride with them, I will always be a Lions supporter. Thanks to the Lions as I leave with the door open for future opportunities with Super 14!”
- Diana Klochkova (Eagles XV exclusive)
SUNTORY SUNGOLIATH (also known as Suntory Rugby Football Club) is owned by the Suntory beverage company and is one of the Japanese rugby union teams in the Top League. The team is based in Fuchu, Tokyo, as is their local rival Toshiba Brave Lupus. Further information on the club can be found at www.suntory.co.jp/culture-sports/sungoliath.
USA RUGBY, founded in 1975, is the national governing body for rugby and is a member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Rugby Board (IRB). The organization is responsible for the development of boys, girls, high school, collegiate and club rugby programs, as well as the nation’s rugby coaches, referees, administrators and all of its national teams that represent the U.S. in international competitions. For more information, please visit www.usarugby.org.
Very big news indeed RugbyZone fans!
Dallen Stanford played 54 matches for the USA 7s team throughout his career spanning from 2006 to 2009, including 13 IRB 7s tournament appearances. To read other articles by the South African visit www.UR7s.com, www.EaglesXV.com and www.PakisCorner.com.
