Toronto Arrows Announce Return of Wing Oitomen
November 4, 2022 – Major League Rugby (MLR) – Toronto Arrows News Release
TORONTO, ON – The Toronto Arrows are pleased to announce that wing Avery Oitomen will be returning to the club for the 2023 Major League Rugby season.
Oitomen, 23, will be back with the Arrows for a second campaign after an extended spell away from the sport while focusing on his studies; following his electric rookie season in 2019, the native of Mississauga, Ont. made the decision to step back from rugby as he completed his post-secondary education in Wales.
“The Toronto Arrows are a club that’s close to my heart,” said Oitomen. “It’s the first pro club that I was a part of, and it’s my hometown team. When I was in a position to come back to rugby, the Arrows were always going to be at the very top of my list. I’m thrilled to be back.”
“After three years away from the sport, I’m ready to return. The club has made very strong gains since that first season back in 2019, and it’s exciting to rejoin the group. I can’t wait to return and to do everything I can to help bring the Shield home in 2023.”
The six-foot-three, 200-pound outside back enjoyed a standout season during the Arrows’ inaugural campaign in MLR, earning plaudits for his pacy runs and knack for finding the try zone despite being the youngest player in the league at just 19 years of age.
Oitomen featured in 11 matches (eight starts) throughout his debut season, posting 453 carry metres on 39 carries, 39 tackles (three dominant), six tackle breaks, five linebreaks, and two offloads. His six tries represented the second-highest tally across the squad in 2019, trailing only captain Dan Moor (seven).
Arrow #23 represented Canada at the 2019 World Rugby Under-20 Trophy in Brazil, is a graduate of the Ontario Blues junior men’s provincial program, and played his grassroots rugby with the Oakville Crusaders.
“Avery had an incredible debut season for the Arrows in 2019, scoring on his first touch in MLR, and adding five more tries that year,” said Mark Winokur, Toronto Arrows Chief Operating Officer and General Manager. “He has worked through school and is extremely motivated to hit the ground running in his return. Avery brings a big x-factor to the back line, and we’re excited to have him home and back in blue and white.”
The club will be making additional signing announcements in the coming weeks as 2023 season preparations continue to build.
The window to place a deposit to secure 2023 season memberships for the lowest possible price is now open. Earlybird pricing packages for the club’s home matches at York Lions Stadium start at just $70 for a limited time only.
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