Both players were named 2026 Rudy Scholz Award nominees, recognizing them among the very best male collegiate rugby players in the United States.

The Legion went big with both selections, adding two of the most highly regarded and physical prospects in this year’s draft class.

Pick 3 — Coby Baker | Cal Poly

With the third overall pick, California selected Coby Baker, a powerful and versatile centre/flyhalf out of Cal Poly.

Standing 6’1” and 235 lbs, Baker combines genuine size with skill, vision and a strong goal-kicking game.

A two-time Rudy Scholz Award nominee and three-time D1A All-American, Baker has also represented the USA at U18 level in 7s and earned USA U23 selection for a tour of South Africa.

His ability to play multiple positions across the backline, combined with his physicality and playmaking ability, makes him an exciting addition to the Legion.

Pick 8 — Aran Van Dyk | Arkansas State

California continued to add power with Pick 8, selecting Aran Van Dyk from Arkansas State University.

The 6’1”, 245 lb back-rower is a powerful ball carrier who is most comfortable at No. 8 but can play across all three back-row positions.

Van Dyk is a two-time Rudy Scholz Award nominee and First Team All-American, establishing himself as one of the leading forwards in the collegiate game.

Originally from East London, South Africa, rugby is in Van Dyk’s blood, with his father having played professionally. After beginning his rugby journey in South Africa, Van Dyk moved to the United States and has developed into a standout for Arkansas State.

California Legion Assistant Coach Dave Clancy, who ran point of the MLR Draft said:

“We’re beyond excited about both of our picks in the 2026 MLR Draft." Said Clancy.

"In Coby, we have a player I’ve known for a long time, going back to when I first tried to recruit him to college in the U.S. He has always been a standout, from his time with the USA 7s program to his recent tour of South Africa with the USA U23s. He has an excellent skill set, great versatility and, importantly, the character to make an immediate impact in MLR.

"Aaron is an impressive back-rower with dynamic defense and powerful ball-carrying ability. He has been a standout and a leader for his college side, and we can’t wait to have him join the Legion.

"Seeing Aaron surrounded by his entire team during the Draft, and the excitement they showed when his name was called by California Legion, was a highlight of the day. It says a lot about how highly regarded he is by his teammates and peers.”

With Baker and Van Dyk joining the Legion, California walks away from the 2026 MLR College Draft with two powerful, versatile prospects capable of making an impact on both sides of the ball.

The selections continue the Legion’s focus on identifying and developing the next generation of Californian talent as the club builds toward the 2027 MLR season.