AG Rugby Signs Crossover Athlete Casey McDermott Vai

AUSTIN, TX (December, 14th 2021) AG Rugby is delighted to announce the signing of TCU football utility player, Casey McDermott Vai.

The 6’4 235 lbs athlete spent the last two seasons playing No. 8 for the Colorado XOs, now called the American Raptors. Vai was a standout player for the Raptors throughout 2021 with eye-catching performances against the AG Senior Academy Outlaws program and consistent performances on tour in Uruguay in October.

“I’ve been buzzing ever since I joined the team, just to be competing for playing time and grinding again,” says Vai. “Our coaching staff here in Austin reminds me of my NFL coaches, they really care about you and how you’re progressing. I’m loving it here.’

Vai grew up in Auckland, New Zealand, and was originally introduced to rugby league as a youngster. His love for rugby stayed with him when his family moved stateside to Kansas City, Missouri, but Vai opted to pick up the more popular American football. At powerhouse high school football program, Raytown South High School, Vai caught the attention of regional D1 college football scouts. Vai went on to play a swiss army knife role for TCU; earning playing time on the offensive line, defensive line, and tight end, before earning an undrafted free agent contract with the Seattle Seahawks.

AG Rugby Director of Player Personnel Dave Hodges says, “Casey [Vai]’s versatility as an athlete intrigued me because he played several positions in football, from O-line to D-line to tight end. He also was brought up around rugby until the age of 12 so he’s got some of the values and micro skills in him that he’s now resurfacing.”

It was a Twitter message from the Colorado XOs that reignited Vai’s interest in rugby, and after careful consideration; sparked his return to his first love, rugby.

From November 2020 to November of 2021, Vai trained and played with the Colorado XOs (now American Raptors) at Infinity Park in Glendale, Colorado, investing several hours a day into sharpening his rugby skills with a dream of establishing a second professional sports career.

AG Head Coach Sam Harris signed Vai to a two-year deal and believes he can be a force in Austin. “Casey has all the physical ability to dominate the point of contact in this league, and he’s hungry to learn the game, the system and the finer nuances of rugby.”

Welcome to the AG Family, Casey Vai!