By Aaron Wilson
Since joining the SaberCats, big-time lock Johan Momsen has delivered an undeniable impact with his strength, skills and aggressiveness.
Acquired during the offseason from the Atlanta franchise, Momsen has turned in a series of strong performances in the scrum for the undefeated SaberCats.
Three games into the season, it’s been a great fit for Momsen with the 3-0 Western Conference co-leaders.
“I’m enjoying it,” said Momsen, a native of Paarl, South African who has played in Major League Rugby for four seasons. “It’s a pretty familiar environment with a lot of South Africans and a lot of friends here. It was a very easy transition for me. I’m enjoying it.”
It’s hard to miss Momsen on the field.
He’s 6-foot-4, 250 pounds with great mobility and power.
“Momsen is a quality player,” Andre Warner said. “He’s a hard working, quality lock.”
Momsen’s presence in tight quarters and in the open field provides an experienced, smart player who has fit well into the SaberCats’ winning culture led by director Heyneke Meyer and coach Pote Human.
“Momsen is very good, a phenomenal player,” Human said. “He came into late into our system and has been excellent for us.”
Momsen joined Rugby ATL on a loan from Griquas in 2020 before being named Major League Rugby Forward of the Year in 2021 and then signing a long-term contract.
He has also played for Manawatu, the Stellenbosch Maties and the Varsity Cup Dream Team.
Now, he’s a big part of the SaberCats.
“I bring extra bulk, physicality and leadership,” Momsen said. “It’s easy to fit in. I’ve played with a lot of the guys. We all have our own things. I pair up well with all of them. It’s lovely. Everyone is good friends. We’ve got a very good culture going.”
