Mike MacDonald
2021
Inductee
Mike MacDonald began his rugby career as a sophomore in high school in Orinda, California. His talents would lead him to play at the collegiate level for perennial powerhouse, the University of California, Berkeley. From 2000-2004, MacDonald helped the Bears earn four National Championships and was named the 2004 National Championship MVP. During his collegiate career, he was selected for the US Collegiate All-Americans in all five years.
Following college, Mike made his way across the pond and played internationally for the Worcester Warriors and Leeds Carnegie in England. In 2008, he received the dual honors of being voted Players Player of the Year and Supporters Player of the Year for Leeds. He was named captain of the Leeds Carnegie professional side the following season.
Stateside, MacDonald made his USA Rugby Eagle 15s debut against Fiji on June 30th, 2000. He represented the United States in three Rugby World Cups in 2003, 2007, and 2011. In the 2011 Rugby World Cup, MacDonald broke two US records: he recorded his 63rd cap, surpassing Luke Gross in becoming the most capped player in Eagle history, and notched his 11th appearance in a Rugby World Cup match, breaking the record previously held by Alec Parker. Mike was also named the Man of the Match in 2007 versus Tonga and in the Eagles win against Russia in the 2011 Rugby World Cup. He finished his Eagle’s career with a then record of 67 caps.
Upon completion of his playing career, Mike was hired on staff as an assistant coach for his alma mater, Cal, in 2013. He has just completed his ninth season as forwards coach with the Bears and remains heavily involved in the rugby community.