The Cardiff Blues have announced the signing of USA wing/fullback Blaine Scully.

The former Cal All American has signed a long-term deal to move to BT Sport Cardiff Arms Park from Leicester Tigers ahead of the 2015/16 campaign. Scully, 27, has been capped 21 times for the Eagles and is a big, physical presence on the outside. With Leicester he gained a reputation as a hard-working, unselfish back who put his body on the line for the team. 

Scully marked his Leicester debut with a try in a victory over Newcastle in 2013 and has made 34 appearances for the Tigers, scoring a total of six tries.

The gyu behind the signing is Billy Millard, Head of Elite Performance at Cardiff Blues. Millard worked as HP director for USA Rugby before moving to Cardiff. He is familiar with Scully, and other USA players.

"Blaine is a fantastic acquisition and we're all excited about him joining us next season, following his expected involvement with the USA at the Rugby World Cup," Millard said. "Blaine is a determined, courageous and talented player who will add real attacking options to our back line. He is a powerful runner with a strong skill-set in the air, is strong defensively and knows how to score tries. I was lucky to work with Blaine during my time with USA Rugby and so know the tremendous attitude, enthusiasm and professionalism he will bring with him to Cardiff Blues. He is a class act on and off the field.

"Blaine drives high standards and has earned the respect of players and coaches at Leicester. He will buy into the ethos we are developing here and is determined to really add something to the squad we're building.”

A history graduate at California University, Scully only started playing rugby in college, despite attending rugby powerhouse Jesuit HS in Sacramento. He helped Cal to two national titles and captained the All Americans. He made his international debut for the USA in June 2011 and scored a memorable hat-trick of tries against Japan in the Pacific Nations Cup in 2014, folowed by two more tries in the following game against Canada.

"I am beyond excited for the opportunity to join Cardiff Blues and the new challenge," said Scully. "In speaking with Billy Millard, I found the ambitions of the region and the opportunity to develop very attractive. I will do my very best to contribute meaningfully to the team and have a positive impact on the culture. I am looking forward to taking the next step of my career there. I would like to thank the entire Leicester Tigers organization: players, coaches, staff, and fans. I have had a wonderful two seasons there and will always have a special fondness for Welford Road. I will leave the club a better player, man and with mutual good will. I have made many lasting friendships and wish them all the best in the future." 

Scully said he wants to end his time at Leicester on a high note.

"Currently, my focus is firmly on the conclusion of the Premiership season, where we hope to complete the campaign with a strong finish," said the Eagle wing. "Moving forward to the summer, the USA will have an intense competition schedule preparing for the World Cup in England. After a hopefully successful World Cup campaign, I will move to Arms Park to begin my first season as a Cardiff Blue.”