HERRIMAN, Utah - The Utah Warriors Rugby Club announced that forward Tonga Kofe, a homegrown player who rose through the Warriors’ development pathway, has officially signed with Leicester Tigers of England’s Premiership Rugby - one of the sport’s most storied professional clubs.
Originally written and posted by the Utah Warriors. Reprinted with permission.
Kofe’s journey from the Warriors ID program in Utah to international competition and now the European professional stage underscores the Warriors’ commitment to building a world-class rugby ecosystem right here in the United States.
"This is what it’s all about—creating opportunities for players from our state to reach the highest levels of the game," said Robbie Abel, Head Coach of the Utah Warriors. "Tonga embodies everything we believe in: hard work, humility, and belief in the Utah Way. His success is a win for our entire community."
A key member of the USA Eagles player squad earlier this year, Kofe’s rise follows his standout 2024 and 2025 campaigns with the Warriors, where his power, skill, and work rate helped Utah clinch the #1 spot in the MLR Regular season, #1 in Western Conference regular-season and advanced to the MLR Western Conference Final.
Kofe credited the Warriors organization for developing not only his rugby but his mindset and professionalism.
"Utah is special because it’s family," said Kofe. "From the first time I joined the Warriors, the coaches, the players, and the fans believed in me. They gave me a pathway and a standard to live up to. I'm proud to represent Utah wherever I go."
