Jackals Representatives in the World Tens Series

The inaugural World Tens Series kicked off in Bermuda on October 25th. The Dallas Jackals had two representatives competing in the tournament, Mike Brown on the Miami Sun and Cristian Rodriguez on the Ohio Aviators. 

The World Tens Series is a new international competition that is made up of eight privately owned teams. The leadership of the tournament wanted to create a new cultural rugby experience for the fans and players. The World Tens Series was broken into 3 Rounds with the Final scheduled for November 7th.

In Round 1, Mike and the Miami Sun topped the London Royals, Phoenix, and Ohio Aviators but fell to Asia Pacific Dragons and the Rhinos. “I jumped on the opportunity immediately when Matthew Turner [Assistant Head Coach and Player Selection Manager],” Mike said. “Being a part of the first World Tens Series is very humbling and I do not take it for granted.”

Cristian and the Ohio Aviators had a rougher start to the tournament, but bounced back later in the tournament. Cristian commented on the selection process saying, “Luckily I was picked up by Head Coach Taylor Howden as I wasn’t on the original Aviators.” He continued, “Finally stepping back onto the field again has been the most exciting part. And the team environment with such great players at such a great tournament.”

“I could not ask for a better way to prepare for the upcoming season.” – Cristian Rodriguez, Scrum Half

Taylor Howden, Ohio Aviators Head Coach, commented that the team is utilized experienced players with “an injection of youth & exuberance from new players like Cristian Rodriguez.” He continued, “As rugby begins to find its feet again, this is a fantastic opportunity for players to compete against other professionals, Olympians and some of 7s rugby big names.”  

Mike noted, “I am glad I was able to make my mark alongside many world class players, but it’s been fantastic just being able to throw a rugby ball again.” This is Mike’s first time in Bermuda and commented that he enjoyed the weather and lifestyle. 

“This is an experience I will not forget.” – Mike Brown, Hooker

Cristian had the opportunity to head to Berumda a week before games began and said, “That week was amazing and I enjoyed the nice beaches and unique towns the island has to offer.”

Both Mike and Cristian said that this experience greatly helped them prepare to join the Jackals for the 2021 MLR season. 

Learn more about the World Tens Series and see all results here.

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About Dallas Jackals —

The Dallas Jackals are a professional rugby team of Major League Rugby (MLR), the highest level of rugby competition in North America. The Jackals were named as an expansion team in 2020 and will play their inaugural season in 2022 at Globe Life Park in Arlington. The team’s central mission is to develop domestic talent to a world-class level of play and professionalism while strengthening the high performance pathway in DFW by supporting the local clubs. Through proactive Community Outreach, the Jackals will exemplify and spread the passion of rugby by inspiring tradition, respect, family, and character on and off the pitch.

About MLR —

Major League Rugby is a professional sports league entering its fourth season and represents the highest level of competition in North America. The League evolved from seven teams in 2018, to 12 teams in 2021, featuring 11 from the United States and one from Canada. The competition follows an 18-week regular schedule for a chance to advance to the playoffs. Matches are televised on CBS Sports Network, Fox Sports 2, ESPN+, Facebook Live (for international viewers) and on different platforms in each local market. MLR prides itself on its incredible athletes, the passionate community behind them, and its strong values of Respect, Inclusivity, and Tradition.