Westport, Conn. — A talent showcase for players declared for the Major League Rugby draft will be held on August 7 at Staples HS in Westport, Conn.

The Rugby Showcase is not an official MLR event, but it does have the league's blessing. Instead, what amounts to a Pro Day for collegiate rugby players will be presented by High Performance Management Group.

MLR did present the Group with a statement of support: "After the success of our inaugural Draft we are incredibly excited about the 2nd edition and expect a strong Draft pool for teams to choose from. Events like The Rugby Showcase are an excellent way for aspiring athletes to gain exposure and be evaluated by GMs and Coaches ahead of the big day."

Players who have declared for the MLR draft are not required to attend. However, those attending will be able to have go through a standardized series of activities and get it all recorded. The event will be operated by MLR veterans and professional staff, offering insight into what athletes can expect at the next level.

Running The Rugby Showcase is Mike Brown, who played with RUNY and (currently) Houston Sabercats. Brown was an honorable mention All American in 2014 with Bowling Green, and has been playing MLR rugby since its inception. He also was part of the Dallas Jesuit coaching staff this spring.

He has partnered with High Performance Management Group to run the Rugby Showcase.

"The biggest complaint I have heard from players is lack of exposure," Brown told GRR. "I hear college players say 'I'm a really good player but I play at a small school, where it is really tough to get any sort of notoriety. If only I had a chance to showcase my skills and my playing ability in front of MLR teams, I would be drafted.' Or the players saying 'no one looks at my film.'  This event helps players demonstrate their abilities live in front of MLR personnel. With the draft expanding to three rounds and new expansion teams coming there is an increase in opportunities."

You don't have to be declared for the draft to attend, but draft-declared players will be highlighted and tracked throughout. Cost for athletes to attend is $150.

For general information email sponsorships@therugbyshowcase.com

o connections to the MLR or any colleges. 

To register go to www.therugbyshowcase.com.