Naikatini comes to DC with impressive physical skills and a high rugby IQ, making him both a destructive ball carrier and a dynamic player. Originally from Sigatoka, Fiji, the experienced lock and flanker joined the New Zealand provincial side Wellington for the 2007 Air New Zealand Cup. In 2009, Naikatini took his skills to the Hurricanes, making his Super Rugby Debut. Following his stint in Super Rugby, Naikatini enjoyed his international debut for Fiji during the 2012 IRB Pacific National Cup.
Earlier this year, Naikatini signed with Major League Rugby’s Seattle Seawolves, where he was a part of the 2019 Championship side. Since then, Naikatini spent the summer playing second row with Waikato Rugby Union in New Zealand before signing with DC.
On joining Old Glory, Apisai said, “I’m looking forward to being on this journey with this new team. I’m ready for the challenges ahead and excited to represent the club.”
Coach Andrew Douglas said, “I’m looking forward to seeing Api in Old Glory colors. He has won two MLR championships, and that experience will be valuable to us this season. He is a tough, hard-working forward who can lead the lineouts and carries the ball over the gain-line effectively. I’ve enjoyed speaking with Api over the last month and know he will be a crowd favorite.”
Fans will be able to see Api Naikatini take the field during the 2020 home opener on February 18th. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on Old Glory news, ticket sales, and events here.
About Old Glory DC:
Old Glory DC is a professional rugby team based in Washington, DC that will enter league competition with Major League Rugby (MLR) in February of 2020. Old Glory will compete in MLR’s Eastern Conference against teams from Atlanta, New England, New Orleans, New York, and Toronto, as well as play games against Western Conference, teams Austin, Glendale, Houston, San Diego, Seattle, and Utah. For more information and to join our email list, please visit www.oldglorydc.com
About Major League Rugby:
Major League Rugby (MLR) is a professional rugby league that launched in April of 2018 and will enter its third season in February of 2020. It is an initiative driven by members of the North American rugby community, in partnership with private investors, who believe that North American Rugby can thrive at the highest levels: as an influential entity within international rugby; as a participation sport at the youth & senior levels; and as a commercial enterprise. MLR is the pinnacle of American rugby and provides a rallying point for local communities, a focal point for American rugby fans, and an aspirational destination for young athletes. For more information, visit https://www.majorleague.rugby
