AG Rugby Signs Prop Payton Telea-Ilalio

AG Rugby is delighted to announce the signing of loosehead prop Payton Telea-Ilalio. Telea was the recipient of the 2021 Rudy Scholz Award for the best collegiate rugby player at St. Mary’s.

Telea feels fortunate to join the AGs and Major League Rugby. “I’m most excited to be around top-level coaches and players day in and out and learning more about the game. Honestly just excited to be a part of the AG journey, culture, and ballin’ out with the boys!”

Telea looks to make his debut this weekend against the Dallas Jackals and AG Rugby Head Coach Sam Harris believes Telea will be an impact player in the AG’s playoff hunt.

“Payton is a rare talent, and he probably would have gone #1 in the Collegiate Draft if he had made himself eligible, he’s got the body type for the position he plays, tackles like a freight train, has great skills and footwork for a big man and is still learning in the scrum. I’m excited to see him work Saturday night.”

From 2016-2021, Telea was a standout player for St. Mary with impressive teammates Tavite Lopetii, Vili Helu, and now reunited AG teammate Ronan Murphy. In his time at St. Mary’s, Telea spent time with both the U20 All-Americans and Collegiate All-Americans programs.

After graduating with a Masters from St. Mary’s, Telea went off to Trinity College in Ireland to further develop his game. He made his return to the States a few months ago and joined up with the Austin Blacks to take on a tough Texas Rugby Union competition. Telea was a standout player with the Blacks and this week earned the call up to the AG top side.

Sam Harris speaks on the AG’s young core. “Both Payton and Ronan joining the young brigade of this team will take the AG’s into future success, both come from St. Mary’s and both have been coached by our own Brendan O’Meara and he’s spoken highly of their play, character, and work ethic and I’m excited to see them perform Saturday night.”

Welcome to the AGs, Payton Telea-Ilalio!