Alan "AJ" MacGinty is an Irish-born professional rugby player who represents the United States in international competition. He primarily plays as a fly-half and has had a successful career playing for various clubs.
MacGinty began his rugby journey in Ireland, attending Blackrock College and playing for Blackrock RFC up until the under-20 level.
He then moved to the United States, where he played for NYAC (New York Athletic Club) before pursuing a master's degree in Sport Health Science at Life University in Marietta, Georgia. During his time at Life University, MacGinty excelled on the rugby field as a fly-half for the Life Running Eagles.
In 2015, MacGinty made his breakthrough with the United States national team, known as the US Eagles. He made his debut against Samoa in the Pacific Nations Cup. Later that year, he participated in the Rugby World Cup, representing the United States and scoring 25 points in three appearances.
Following his performances in the Rugby World Cup, MacGinty was signed by Connacht for the 2015-16 Pro12 season.
Connacht head coach Pat Lam had been following MacGinty since the Pacific Nations Cup. MacGinty made significant contributions to Connacht, including leading them to a 28-23 bonus point win over Edinburgh and helping the team maintain their first-place position in the Pro12. He played a pivotal role in Connacht's Pro12 final victory, securing the team's first-ever silverware.
In 2016, MacGinty joined English Premiership side Sale Sharks. He was signed as a replacement for Danny Cipriani and quickly established himself as one of the top fly-halves in the Premiership. He has made numerous appearances for Sale Sharks and has amassed a high points tally for the team.
In November 2021, it was announced that MacGinty would be joining Bristol Bears at the end of the 2021/22 season. This move reunited him with former Connacht coach Pat Lam, who had previously helped Connacht secure the PRO12 title during the 2015/16 season.
MacGinty's international career saw him qualify to represent the United States through residency rules. He made his debut for the US Eagles in 2015 during the Pacific Nations Cup and went on to feature in the 2015 Rugby World Cup. MacGinty has been a significant scorer for the national team, showcasing his skills as a fly-half.
In addition to his club and international success, MacGinty was named captain of USA Rugby in June 2021, highlighting his leadership qualities and contributions to the sport.
KG(12/06/2023)
Career
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USA Fly Half |
2015 - present |
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Bristol Bears Fly Half |
2022 - present |
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Connacht Rugby Fly Half |
2015 - 2016 |
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Sale Sharks Fly Half |
2016 - 2024 |
