California Collegiate Rugby Talent Earns All-American Recognition

The College Rugby Association of America announced its 2025-2026 D1A All-Americans, recognizing the top men’s collegiate rugby student-athletes from programs across the country. For California rugby, this year’s list served as another strong reflection of the state’s depth, development pathways, and continued impact on the national collegiate game.

University of California led the California schools with a major presence across both All-American teams. The Golden Bears placed five players on the First XV and three more on the Second XV, highlighting one of the strongest team representations in the country.

Saint Mary’s College also earned recognition on both lists, with Dom Besag named to the First XV at center and Siale Ofa selected to the First XV reserves. San Diego State University and California State University, Long Beach added to the state’s representation, with Jack Stahl and Elijah Lolesio-Pua earning Second XV honors.

Together, the selections reinforce the strength of collegiate rugby in California and the role these programs continue to play in developing elite talent for the next level of the sport.

California School Honorees

First XV

1 .Oliver Kirk | University of California

4. Byron Finley | University of California

9. Solomon Williams | University of California

10. Rand Santos | University of California

12. Dom Besag | Saint Mary’s College

14. Masi Koi | University of California

17. Cade Crist | University of California

21. Siale Ofa | Saint Mary’s College

Second XV

1. Talae Tuimaunei | University of California

5. Seamus Deeley | University of California

7. Jack Stahl | San Diego State University

12. Max Threlkeld | University of California

22. Elijah Lolesio-Pua | California State University, Long Beach

University of California Leads the Way

The University of California finished with nine total selections across the First XV and Second XV, including six First XV honorees.

Oliver Kirk, Byron Finley, Solomon Williams, Rand Santos, Masi Koi, and Cade Crist were named First XV All-Americans after strong seasons for the Golden Bears. Talae Tuimaunei, Seamus Deeley, and Max Threlkeld added Second XV honors, giving Cal one of the most complete representations of any program on the national list.

The group reflects strength across the field, with Cal players recognized in the front row, second row, halfbacks, centers, wing, and reserves

Saint Mary’s Continues Its National Presence

Saint Mary’s College added two First XV selections, with Dom Besag named at center and Siale Ofa selected among the reserves.

The Gaels have long been one of the premier collegiate rugby programs in the country, and their presence on this year’s All-American list continues that standard.

San Diego State and Long Beach State Add to California’s Depth

San Diego State University and California State University, Long Beach also earned national recognition through Second XV selections.

Jack Stahl represented San Diego State at flanker, while Elijah Lolesio-Pua earned honors for Long Beach State among the reserves. Their selections show the depth of California rugby beyond the state’s traditional national powers.

A Strong Signal for California Rugby

For the California Legion, the recognition of these student-athletes carries added meaning. The growth of rugby across the state depends on strong local pathways, competitive collegiate programs, and athletes who continue to raise the standard at every level.

This year’s CRAA D1A All-American selections show California’s collegiate rugby ecosystem remains one of the strongest in the country.

From Berkeley to Moraga, San Diego to Long Beach, the next generation of California rugby talent is already making its mark.