Tendai “Beast” Mtawarira Shifts Base Joins USA Major League Rugby
South Africa’s Rugby World Cup winner Tendai ‘The Beast” Mtawarira has signed a one-year contract with American rugby league side Old Glory DC.
After winning the World Cup with the Springboks in November, Mtawarira announced his international retirement and departure from the Sharks after an illustrious career.
Mtawarira was born in Zimbabwe, but played 117 times for the Springboks in a storied career which came to an end after the World Cup final against England in Yokohama last month.
He revealed that he had received more financially rewarding offers fro France but chose this route for his legacy.
“America really excites me: they say it’s the land of opportunity”
“I can’t wait to make an impact on and off the field and help to contribute to making Old Glory the best team in this league,” he said in a statement on the franchise’s website.
He confirmed as much via his Twitter account:
Delighted to confirm that I’ve signed with @usmlr’s @OldGloryDC !! I’m excited and look forward to joining my new teammates and adding value to my new franchise both on and off the field. I believe this opportunity will allow me to mentor the rugby youth in D.C ..
“Yes, the money’s big in France and big in Europe but I wanted to be part of something that might contribute to my legacy.
By Gerald Dandah
