Emmanuel Albert: Former SaberCats First-Round Draft Pick Makes Steady Improvement

SaberCats’ Emmanuel Albert: ‘I do the dirty work, make big hits’

By Aaron Wilson

Emmanuel Albert can usually be found in familiar roughneck territory: a scrum where his considerable power, strength and athleticism all come in handy for the SaberCats.

A former Major League Rugby collegiate first-round draft pick selected second overall by Houston, is thriving in his role as a lock and backrow contributor for the 7-2 SaberCats.

“I’m more of a physical player, not too flashy,” Albert said. “I do the dirty work, make big hits, do the small things that help us get a victory.”

At 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, Albert, 23, has the requisite size and background to excel at the grittier aspect of the sport.

The Eagan, Minnesota native grew up playing football, baseball and wrestled in addition to playing rugby before enrolling at Lindenwood University in Missouri where he was a two-time National Sevens Champion, a Rugby Scholz winner as the top collegiate player in the nation and the MVP of the school’s rugby club. He also played for the USA Club Sevens Nationals and the St. Louis Bombers. 

His high school rugby team toured England and Wales during his senior year.

“When I was growing up, I played football and wrestled, so defensive tackling is one of my stronger suits, just getting in the habit of doing a takedown,” Albert said. “I played middle linebacker and tight end, both sides of the ball. I was pretty good at doing that and transferring that over to rugby.”

No ice hockey?

“I wasn’t too big on ice hockey,” he said. “I never grew up trying to skate.”

A year ago, Albert, 23, played 303 minutes in 13 matches with one start and one try after previously playing for Rugby HTX, the SaberCats academy side.

“I think it’s a great experience,” Albert said. “Since I got drafted here, it’s a great group of boys and coaching staff. They took me under their wing and helped me grow as a player and a person.”

And the SaberCats have taken notice of Albert’s personal growth. Especially in recent weeks as they push for a second consecutive playoff berth.

“Emmanuel has really improved,” SaberCats director Heyneke Meyer said. “Obviously, he’s a youngster. He’s really come on in leaps and bounds the last few games. He’s really playing well. He has improved as a ball carrier. We’re very happy with him.”

Playing for the SaberCats is more than rugby for Albert. It’s about friendships and camaraderie.

“It’s a great group of guys, great brotherhood,” Albert said. “You can see how we play, always fighting for each other. We have days where we go grab a coffee and go hang out with the boys.”

*Photos by BigShots SnapShots