Arrows Announce Return of Canadian International Fly-Half Nelson
October 27, 2023 - Major League Rugby (MLR)
Toronto Arrows News Release
TORONTO, ON - The Toronto Arrows are pleased to announce that fly-half Peter Nelson is returning to the club for the 2024 Major League Rugby season.
Nelson, 31, is back with the Arrows for his sophomore campaign after featuring in eight matches (seven starts) across his first MLR season.
"I'm really excited to get started again with the Arrows for the 2024 season," said Nelson. "Leaving at the end of last season it felt like we were only getting started, putting together better performances and playing some good rugby."
"Coming back this year and being involved from the start of preseason, there is a sense of excitement as to what's building and we are determined to put right what was a poor season for us last year."
"We will be doing everything we can to bring the Shield back to Toronto and honour Bill in the best possible way."
The six-foot, 195-pound back produced 256 carry metres on 28 carries, 127 passes, 16 tackles, five defenders beaten and an offload throughout his first season in North America. He also tacked on 10 points via the boot, slotting two penalty goals and two conversions.
Nelson arrived at the club midway through the 2023 season following a two-year stint with French side Aurillac. He began his professional career with Ulster, spending eight seasons and making more than 60 Pro12/Pro14 appearances with the Belfast-based club between 2011 and 2019.
The back departed his home province for France in 2020, first signing as a medical joker with Nationale club US Bressane before joining the Pro D2 ranks with Aurillac the following year.
Nelson has earned 17 caps for Canada since making his international debut against the United States in July 2019, booting 79 points and adding a try for his adopted nation. He was a member of Canada's 2019 Rugby World Cup squad, and most recently suited up for the red and white this past August, featuring in both of the national side's matches against Tonga in Nuku'alofa.
"When Peter joined us partway through last season, he provided a big boost with his presence and experience," said Tim Matthews, Toronto Arrows Vice President and General Manager. "He is a very good playmaker who is comfortable with ball in hand but who can also control a match with his kicking game, too."
"We're excited another Canadian international is returning to the club as we look to compete at the top end of Major League Rugby next season."
Born in Dungannon, Northern Ireland, Nelson previously represented Ireland at both the under-18 and under-20 levels, and made three appearances for Emerging Ireland between 2013 and 2015. He is eligible for Canada through his Toronto-born grandmother.
He played his grassroots rugby with his hometown Dungannon RFC.
The club will be making additional signing announcements in the coming weeks as 2024 season preparations continue to build.
Major League Rugby Stories from October 27, 2023
- Arrows Announce Return of Canadian International Fly-Half Nelson - Toronto Arrows
The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.
