The ACT Brumbies are pleased to announce the signing of USA international prop, Mona Lisa Tupou. The loosehead arrives in the nation’s capital from California, where she plies her trade for the Bay Breakers in the Women’s Elite Rugby (WER) competition.
The young prop began her rugby journey in 2020, packing down for her local team, the East Palo Alto Razorbacks. Her versatility was on show early, as she moved between inside centre and No. 8. After dominating local rugby for three years, Tupou earned an invite to a USA Eagles women’s camp. Eventually seeing the light and moving from the back row to the front row, Tupou spent two years in the USA U23 program before making her debut against the Wallaroos in 2023.
The barnstorming prop has proven to be a handy point scorer for the Bay Breakers, crossing the white-line five times in their 2025 campaign. Tupou is excited by the opportunity to travel abroad and test herself at the Brumbies, and sought advice from former Brumby and USA Eagle, Keia Mae Sagapolu Sanele, who encouraged the young forward to journey across the Pacific to the nation’s capital.
"I like the energy of this team," Tupou remarked.
"Everyone here has been so warm and welcoming."
When asked what she was looking forward to bringing to the team this season, Tupou simply stated: "I just want to bring my physicality to this team. I feel like I’m a very hard runner when it comes to contact."
The forward has already made a strong impression despite being in the capital for just a week, with Head Coach James Erwin noting: "Her physical game is excellent. She has been involved since she touched down last week and given all her effort from the get-go."
"It’s exciting to see her put her hand up and really push for a spot in our squad, and we’re glad to have her signed on for the season."
Don't miss your first chance to see Mona Lisa and her squad in action this Saturday at Viking Park as they take on the NSW Waratahs, kick-off at 2.05PM AEST.
Buy your tickets now and be there to cheer on the ACT Brumbies and get behind the team from the very first whistle.
