Cullen grew up in California and played rugby in High School. He went on to play football at Fullerton College, and eventually the University of Utah as the No. 1-rated junior college lineman in his country.
During his two seasons at Utah, Cullen started all 24 regular-season games and made the PAC 12 All-conference team in 2011. After a stint in NFL practice squads with the Chargers and Jets Cullen returned to Utah to finish his degree and play rugby under Coach Blake Burdette.
Cullen quickly made an impact playing number 8 at Utah and was selected for the Collegiate All-American tour to New Zealand in 2013. After a strong New Zealand tour, he was called up to the Eagles camp, made an appearance against Romania, and earned his first starting cap against Tonga.
In 2014 Cullen joined the Seattle Saracens and was an integral part of the team that won the British Columbia Rugby Union Championship in 2015. Locally, John has been a long time member of the Park City Haggis club.
Cullen is a Paratrooper in the Utah guard. He has been a member of the Utah National Guard for several years and holds the rank of Sergeant. Combining his passion for rugby with his military commitment, he has been an important part of the All-Army 7s team.
Career
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USA No. 8 |
2014 - 2017 |
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Utah Warriors Blindside Flanker |
2018 - 2023 |
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Chicago Hounds Blindside Flanker |
2023 - 2024 |
