Former Ospreys wing Jeff Hassler could be set to feature at the World Cup despite taking a year out of rugby.
The hard-running Canadian has picked up the threads of his career by signing for Major League outfit Seattle Seawolves.
Hassler embarked on the adventure of a lifetime after being released by the Ospreys 12 months ago, travelling across America and completing a sailing course in South Africa. But his sabbatical has ended with the Seawolves announcing he has signed for them.
It leaves the 27-year-old potentially in the frame to face New Zealand and South Africa at the World Cup in Japan in just four months’ time.
Canada are in the same pool as the two southern-hemisphere giants and will monitor Hassler’s progress after his return to the game.
“Jeff is definitely an interesting option,” said Canada backs coach Gruff Rees.
“He’s a proven international winger, so he has to be considered.
“If he can rediscover his match sharpness fairly quickly, he definitely has a shot.
“We’re just glad he’s back on the pitch.”
Hassler was a fans’ favourite at the Ospreys with his blast-through-a-brick-wall approach to the game.
There have been others at the Swansea-based region who have been quicker but few have been more direct or as fearless as the former grid-iron player from Alberta.
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Hassler scored 25 tries in 74 appearances over five years for the Ospreys, endearing himself to supporters and fellow players alike with his willingness to put his body on the line. His ultra-physical brand of rugby meant he suffered a number of injuries, but he declined to compromise his style and always came back for more.
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He actually triggered the events that led to his departure from the Ospreys by activating a release clause in his contract.
The wide-man subsequently decided he wanted to stay in Swansea after all, but by then the region had committed funds elsewhere, with George North and Lesley Klim coming in.
Hassler did mull over the possibility of joining Harlequins in the weeks after leaving Wales, only to opt to head off on his travels.
Canada were the 20th and final team to qualify for the World Cup after winning a repechage tournament in France, beating Hong Kong in the final.
As well as New Zealand and South Africa, they have Italy and Namibia in their pool.
