US-Eligible New Zealander Hayden McKay played in Major League Rugby during the 2027 season. He represented the Chicago Hounds for his entire MLR career.

Born in Los Angeles but raised in Auckland, Hayden McKay discovered rugby growing up in New Zealand. He stayed in New Zealand, playing rugby there through high school before heading over the the US for college, enrolling at Mount St. Mary’s. Committed to the country of his birth, McKay represented the USA U20s during his Freshman year in 2024, as well as the U23s. In his Junior year in 2025/26, McKay Captained the Mount St. Mary’s men’s 15s, earning D1A Collegiate All-American honours and leading the team with 11 tries scored.

With eyes on the USA Eagles squad for the 2031 Rugby World Cup in Australia, Hooker/Back Row McKay declared for the 2026 MLR College Draft and was selected in the First Round, 4th Overall by the reigning MLR Champions, the Chicago Hounds.

achievements

• 2026 MLR Draftee: 1st Round – 4th Overall (Chicago Hounds)

NARDB Player #1,770