RFCLA Add to Front Row Depth with Leaney and Gleeson

The pair both played under RFCLA director of rugby Stephen Hoiles at Sydney’s Randwick club, raising the Shute Shield for the Galloping Greens in 2023.

Leaney proved himself as a strong game-finisher for Randwick, often bringing valuable energy off the bench late in games.

He showed his toughness in the 2023 Shute Shield decider, entering the game after an early injury and playing through an injury himself, that was ultimately diagnosed as syndesmosis.

A move to the MLR will be a maiden professional opportunity for Leaney, and Hoiles said

“Declan is a freakish front-rower - he breaks the line, busts tackles - but he’s never had that full-time rugby opportunity,” he said.

“He’s literally been rushing from building sites to get to training, so to get him into a professional environment, it’s exciting to think about the potential he could reach.”

Leaney said he was thrilled for the learning opportunity that RFCLA provided him.

“I’m excited about the opportunity to compete in a growing rugby scene, especially in a city like LA where there's such a diverse mix of talent and experiences,” he said.

“I’m also looking forward to the high level of competition in the MLR. This is my first full-time professional contract and hopefully, it’s the chance to be part of a team that can bring home silverware at season’s end.

“The team’s culture, new training facilities, and the chance to learn from experienced players and coaches will also be a huge bonus.”

Gleeson, 31, has clocked up a number of seasons in the MLR, previously playing in the competition during the COVID pandemic, before spending some time in Sydney with Randwick.

Before his American foray, Gleeson worked his way through the Irish pathways system, included in the Munster squad.

"I’m really excited to link up with the LA boys this coming season." Said the former San Diego Legion Prop.

"Getting to play with some familiar faces from Randwick and Rugby ATL is gonna be fun and getting to play under Hoilsey (Head Coach) again is awesome.

"He’s a coach who knows how to win and has proven that from his last stint in MLR and of course Randwick and the Shute Shield.

"I can’t wait to get stuck in over in LA. There’s a great mix of some older experienced boys and some really talented young lads, who under the coaching staff that’s been put together, there’s no doubt we’ll be looking to bring the shield back to LA."

Head Coach Steve Hoiles, who coached Gleeson in 2023, was looking forward to reuniting with the experienced forward.

“Cronan has a good understanding of the game and he gets through good minutes,” Hoiles said.

“We’ve intentionally chased some young guys but we’re always thinking about making sure we link them up with players like Cronan, players who have runs on the board from different countries.”

Catch Leaney and Gleeson in action in 2025! Rugby Football Club Los Angeles Season Tickets now available here!