Ben Houston, the 27-year-old fullback previously playing for Stade Aurillacois Cantal Auvergne in France’s Pro D2, has officially departed the club. The player is transitioning to the professional rugby landscape in the United States, having signed with the San Diego Legion, which competes in Major League Rugby (MLR).
Why the move to San Diego Legion matters
The recruitment of Houston by the San Diego Legion marks a strategic effort by the California-based franchise to bolster its backline with international experience. According to official club communications, the Legion has prioritized signing players with high-level European experience to remain competitive in the increasingly professionalized MLR environment.
Houston’s move from Aurillac, a club known for its rigorous development of talent in the French second division, brings a specific style of play to San Diego. Pro D2 is widely recognized for its physicality and tactical complexity, attributes the Legion hope will translate to their championship aspirations in the 2025 season.
How Ben Houston fits the Legion roster
At 27, Houston enters the prime of his athletic career. His tenure in France provided him with exposure to a high-pressure environment where consistency is required to maintain a starting position.
- Position: Fullback
- Previous Club: Stade Aurillacois Cantal Auvergne (Pro D2)
- New Club: San Diego Legion (Major League Rugby)
- League Transition: Moving from the French second-tier professional system to the top tier of North American rugby.
The San Diego Legion, a founding member of Major League Rugby, has consistently utilized international transfers to supplement domestic American talent. By securing a player of Houston’s profile, the organization aims to stabilize its defensive structure and provide an additional playmaker in the open field.
What to expect from the upcoming season
The integration of international signings like Houston is a primary focus for the Legion as they prepare for the upcoming campaign. Major League Rugby continues to expand its footprint in the United States, with clubs increasingly looking toward established European leagues to fill specialized roles.
For Houston, the challenge will be adapting to the unique pace and travel demands of the MLR. Unlike the localized nature of the French league, the American competition involves significant travel across time zones, a factor that often requires physical and mental adjustments for players transitioning from European rugby.
The San Diego Legion is expected to finalize its full roster ahead of the preseason training camp, as the team looks to build on its history of playoff appearances in the Western Conference.