Former USA U20 and High School All-Americans captan Ruben de Haas has signed a long-term contract with the Cheetahs of South Africa.

De Haas, who played for the Junior Stormers in Arkansas before being selected for the HS All-Americans, has been playing with the Cheetahs Academy. He was called up to the full USA squad for the Americas Rugby Championship and is in the squad for the June series of tests, as well.

During his time with the Academy, he played for the Cheetahs U19 team and also for CUT in the Varsity Cup. 

MORE: De Haas Makes Cheetahs U19 Debut

Just before joining the Eagles, De Haas made his debut for the Toyota Free State XV in the SuperSport Rugby Challenge. Born in George, South Africa, De Haas moved with his parents to Arkansas about nine years ago. His father, Pieter, played provincial rugby in South Africa, as did his grandfather.

The younger De Haas quickly because a player to watch and captained the HSAA and U20 teams he played on—despite being one of the youngest players on the U20s.

The deal with the Cheetahs runs through October 2020. The Cheetahs play in the Guinness Pro 14 and in fact were the only South African team to make the Pro 14 playoffs this past season.