SELINSGROVE, PA (May 25, 2022) -- Susquehanna University alumni Ryheem Powell 19" was selected into the 23 man roster for the first time in his professional rugby career this past Saturday May 14. Ryheem who plays for the Dallas Jackals in Major League Rugby (MLR) was selected as the backup hooker for the professional rugby match in Toronto vs. the Toronto Arrows.

Powell said "It's truly unreal and a dream come true to finally be here in Dallas and doing exactly what I set out to do. Obviously, it's just the beginning and there's much more to learn but I'm ready to accept all of those challenges. Putting on my team jersey knowing I would step on the field for the first time filled me with joy beyond my imagination. I was able to soak it all in from the good to the bad."

A prop and 8-man while at Susquehanna, Powell entered the match to play hooker with approximately 20 minutes left in the game and made his presence felt with 4 tackles and great support of his teammates. 

The Dallas Jackals are an MLR expansion team and in their first season in the USA's Major League Rugby which comprises many well know international rugby players and domestic US players. Powell in reflecting on their first season in the league said, "We all know the saying where "hard work pays off", it's true. It's been a bumpy road to get here. I kept my head down, worked as hard as I could and prepared for the call when it was my time."

Powell first started playing rugby back in 2011 in high school with Doylestown Dragons U-19 Rugby and was both a USA Rugby and Small College All-American while at Susquehanna. During that time, he was one of only 4 Small College All-Americans to be selected to attend USA Rugby All-American camp, which is equal to a DIII athlete being asked to attend a D1 All-Star Camp. Powell said when he first started playing rugby he instantly fell in love with the sport. "From that point I started to develop into my true self. I found my purpose through rugby and that influenced every area of my life. I knew what rugby had done for me and wanted to share that with everyone! I set goals to play at the highest level and help grow the game here in the U.S." 

Powell said "I wouldn't be here without the love and support from those who care about me. From teammates, coaches, friends, and family. I wouldn't change the journey on how I got here because the dedication from those who believed in me and wanted to help me reach my goals was unmatched and I'll hold with me forever! Susquehanna University Rugby coach Jon "Doc" Niles was a big influence. He brought in coach Randy McGregor my first year at SU and they looked for every opportunity for me and our program to succeed. The SU rugby family has had my back from day one! Thank you to all our alumni, my former teammates, and their families too! No one ever gave up on me and that fueled my drive to make them all proud!"

Powell said "There's much more to come out of this journey. I'm glad to be here now learning and growing. Each day I will continue to do so and represent those who support me every time I put on a jersey and step on the field." 

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--RIVER HAWKS--