This former BYU, NFL player is rejoining Utah Warriors rugby

Utah Warriors participant Paul Lasike speaks at a press convention at Rio Tinto Stadium in Sandy on Thursday, March 22, 2018. Lasike, who performed each rugby and soccer at BYU, is rejoining the Warriors after a number of seasons enjoying rugby skilled in the UK.

Spenser Heaps, Deseret Information

Paul Lasike is coming again to Utah.

The previous BYU star who briefly spent a while within the NFL earlier than shifting on to a professional rugby profession signed with the Utah Warriors, the membership introduced Tuesday.

It will likely be his second stint with the Warriors, who compete in Main League Rugby, the US’ first skilled rugby league.

“I’m actually pleased to get again to the place it began,” Lasike mentioned in a information launch. “I performed a few of my highschool and my collegiate rugby in Utah, and the Warriors was the place I bought my begin in skilled rugby.

“So, to return again residence and play for them is superior for me and my household. I’m excited to get began with the boys in Utah and hopefully do one thing particular this season.”

Lasike, who hails from New Zealand, will be part of the Warriors in late March, following the conclusion of the Six Nations Match.

Lasike, a USA Worldwide, signed with the Harlequins of Premiership Rugby in the UK after enjoying the 2018 season with the Warriors. He performed 29 video games with the Harlequins, the 2021 Premiership champions, and scored 5 tries.

The 31-year-old recorded seven caps throughout his earlier stint with the Warriors through the MLR’s inaugural season.

"I've at all times had it behind my thoughts that I needed to complete up right here."

Paul Lasike is coming residence. Hear from him and coaches why now's the correct time for him to be again in Utah. #ForTheNationpic.twitter.com/lTLXs0ubVs

— Utah Warriors Rugby (@utwarriorsrugby) February 22, 2022

An Auckland native, Lasike initially got here to Utah throughout highschool years to play for Highland rugby. At BYU, he was a rugby All-American whereas doubling as a fullback for the Cougars’ soccer program.

He then spent a part of two seasons within the NFL, with the Arizona Cardinals and Chicago Bears.

“It's at all times particular to convey somebody like Paul residence,” Warriors basic supervisor Brandon Sparks mentioned in a information launch. “His contribution on the sphere of play is straightforward to see however the place we'll expertise the largest impression is his management and professionalism.

“He'll complement our present management whereas additionally offering steering to our youthful gamers which have related ambitions to what he has completed.”