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Photo Gallery: Ohio Over San Francisco
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Utah Touch League Kicking Off
Salt Lake City, UT—Rugby Utah, the state’s sanctioned governing body for the sport, has released the schedule for the 2016 Touch Rugby League (TRL).
The Rugby Utah TRL is the country’s only USA Touch-sanctioned touch rugby competition. The competition runs from the week of July 11th to the end of September with the TRL Championships being hosted on October 1st.
In just its second year the TRL is looking to build upon 2015’s successful season in two distinct ways.
Firstly, plans for growth include a new high school division, in partnership with Utah Youth Rugby, and secondly, a berth for the TRL Men’s Elite Division champion team to represent Rugby Utah in the USA Touch National Championships in Florida in mid-October.
Take the jump to read more.
The USA Touch National Championships pits teams from all over the country in a variety of divisions and with the new agreement with USA Touch the 2016 TRL Men’s Division Champion will be awarded Rugby Utah’s berth into the competition October 13-16.
“USA Touch is excited to have the winner of this competition represent Utah at the USA Touch Nationals,” said USA Touch President OJ Hawea, “Having one of the strongest base of rugby competitions in the country, it is only natural that USA Touch has sought out partnership with Rugby Utah to have a representative at our national event.”
Strategically, Hawea feels granting the bid to Rugby Utah’s Men’s Elite champion will help USA Touch nationally and internationally.
“We are excited to watch and support this [Rugby Utah] competition,” went on to say, “and welcome the winner to the National Championship at the ESPN Wide World of Sports at the Disney World complex in Orlando, Florida. It will also serve as an opportunity for the USA Touch national coaches to gain access to a larger player base as we plan for the Touch World Cup in 2019 to be held in Kuala Lumpur.”
The new high school division will offer the growing numbers of youth players in the Utah Youth Rugby community an opportunity to continue playing and developing their rugby skills in a recreational, yet competitive environment.
“We are excited to work with Rugby Utah and USA Touch to provide High School athletes with another avenue to grow and develop,” said Utah Youth Rugby President Owen Power, “Touch rugby is an excellent way for athletes to be exposed to rugby in a limited contact basis. Touch rugby is fast and requires a high level of fitness and it’s a great introduction to Rugby 7s the newest Olympic Sport debuting in Rio de Janeiro later this year.”
The Rugby Utah TRL will also continue to broaden it’s offerings for the Corporate Division after a successful competition that saw high tech start-up DOMO beat Adobe in 2015 championship.
The TRL will be played at the Wasatch Front centric location of Dimple Dell Recreational Facility in Sandy, UT.
New Director of the Touch Rugby League Will Racule is looking forward to an exciting series on all levels.
“Touch rugby is good way for people to stay in shape and have fun,” Racule said, “Plus for those that want to use it as a developmental game this competition allows for that as well. We’re excited to see this competition continue to grow.”
Registration for the high school division is on an individual player basis, while the registration for Men’s Elite and the Corporate Divisions will be done as a team. All players for both the Men’s Elite and Corporate Divisions will be required to fill out online individual registration and liability waivers.
Registration deadlines are set for June 27th with schedules being released July 6th. Early bird registration for the Men’s Elite and Corporate Co-Ed divisions is open until June 1st.
For more information and registration details for the TRL go to https://www.rugbyutah.com/community/touch-rugby/
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Poll Tuesday: Grade PRO Rugby So Far
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| Photo: Colleen McCloskey |
Poll Tuesday: Grade PRO Rugby So Far— ThisIsAmericanRugby (@ThisIsAmerRugby) May 3, 2016
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Denver Trainer Saves Man On Flight Back From San Diego
Denver are back home after an eventful weekend led by a win over San Diego to stay unbeaten and capped off with trainer Bobby Keehn helping save a man on their flight back from Denver. Juan Carlos Rodriguez was a passenger on their Frontier flight from San Diego and posted a thank you describing how his father-in-law suffered a medical emergency on the plan and Keehn rushed into action helping save the man. Here is what Rodriguez wrote:
Hi, I just wanted to write and recognize the actions of the team's trainer. I believe his name is Bobby. We were on a flight from San Diego to Denver. I was with my wife, two young daughters, and in-laws. About half way through the flight my father-in-law became unresponsive appearing to be having a stroke or a seizure. he was unresponsive for several minutes overall. Within seconds of the flight attendants requesting medical assistance Bobby was by his side taking vitals and assisting after my in-law. He eventually came to and gained color to his face and awareness. Bobby stayed with him and talked him throughout the traumatic experience. He set us all at ease with his professional and calm approach. he was certainly a hero in those moments. We would like to thank him and express out profound appreciate of his actions.
On top of that, minutes later another passenger was also suffering from what we later found out was a heart attack on board. Bobby also stepped in to provide medical assistance to that passenger and calming presence to his daughter. It was extraordinary and he did it all very humbly and without fanfare.
We thanked Bobby in person but would also like the thank him and the team. The players and coaches were all supportive throughout. Thank you from our family to yours...congrats on the win win SD!A very cool story to see and hopefully everyone is alright!
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Opening Kick
Opening Kick is a segment devoted to bringing you all Eagles and U.S.A. Rugby news in one location. It is brought to you everyday by Rugby Marketplace, your independent rugby store!
We're looking for artists for a couple of upcoming projects. Click here for more details.
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
This is an awesome story. Denver trainer Bobby Keehn helped save a couple of passengers on the team's flight back from San Diego.
Grant Cole has a ranking of players by position in PRO Rugby so far.
The Rugby Republic has a great chat with San Diego's Tim Stanfill.
Four latest edition of Poll Tuesday we want you to grade how PRO Rugby is doing so far.
Photographer Colleen McCloskey was at the Ohio-San Francisco match in Obetz and took some great shots!
Northwest Public Radio has a nice piece on Megan Bonny's drive for the Olympics.
Take the jump to read more.
U.S.A. Rugby has hiredKoЯn Korn Ferry to help them look for a new CEO.
Club/College:
After being seemingly left for dead a month ago SFGG have stormed back and with their win over Glendale yesterday have clinched a spot in the Grande Final.
Several Cal players have been recognized for their academic success while BYU has a preview of the Varsity Cup final.
Jake Frechette takes a dive into what the Red River clubs are doing to professionalize.
Scotty Stevenson was at the Old Blue-Life match over the weekend and has a sample of the atmosphere.
The Utah Touch League is kicking off for another season this summer.
World:
Chris Cusiter has retired to Los Angeles to get into the whiskey business.
We're looking for artists for a couple of upcoming projects. Click here for more details.
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
This is an awesome story. Denver trainer Bobby Keehn helped save a couple of passengers on the team's flight back from San Diego.
Grant Cole has a ranking of players by position in PRO Rugby so far.
The Rugby Republic has a great chat with San Diego's Tim Stanfill.
Four latest edition of Poll Tuesday we want you to grade how PRO Rugby is doing so far.
Photographer Colleen McCloskey was at the Ohio-San Francisco match in Obetz and took some great shots!
Northwest Public Radio has a nice piece on Megan Bonny's drive for the Olympics.
Take the jump to read more.
U.S.A. Rugby has hired
Club/College:
After being seemingly left for dead a month ago SFGG have stormed back and with their win over Glendale yesterday have clinched a spot in the Grande Final.
Several Cal players have been recognized for their academic success while BYU has a preview of the Varsity Cup final.
Jake Frechette takes a dive into what the Red River clubs are doing to professionalize.
Scotty Stevenson was at the Old Blue-Life match over the weekend and has a sample of the atmosphere.
The Utah Touch League is kicking off for another season this summer.
World:
Chris Cusiter has retired to Los Angeles to get into the whiskey business.
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Old Blue Hosting Francois Louw For Upcoming Camp
Old Blue Rugby is pleased to announce that Francois Louw from Bath and Springbok rugby will be attending training and running a breakdown/contact session.
Originally from Cape Town, Springbok Francois Louw joined Bath Rugby in 2011. The hard-hitting flanker was an integral component of the Stormers pack in Super Rugby, and represented Western Province over 60 times.
Highly regarded for his defensive skills, Louw is an influential presence in the back row who can not only create havoc at the breakdown, but is also skillful and quick in attack. He has become a key figure in the Bath Rugby squad, having made 89 appearances to date. Louw’s experience and leadership qualities have made him a key figure in the team both on and off the pitch.
Take the jump to read more.
The 6ft 4in, 17st 5lb Louw has made over 40 appearances for South Africa since his debut against Wales in 2010, and has scored eight tries, the most recent coming when he represented the Springboks at the 2015 Rugby World Cup.
When: May 10th 2016 at 7.30pm
Where: Baker Field 218th St and Broadway
This is an open session to any players and coaches from high school and up that would like to attend.
RSVP: Harry Higgins at harry@insiderunning.com
Where: Baker Field 218th St and Broadway
This is an open session to any players and coaches from high school and up that would like to attend.
RSVP: Harry Higgins at harry@insiderunning.com
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Nike Rugby Camps Coming To Oregon
US Sports Camps has collaborated with State Rugby Organization (SRO), Rugby Oregon, to offer an overnight youth rugby camp held at Oregon State University this summer. Employing world-class rugby figures, including former Team USA players and college coaches, this program is designed to benefit athletes of all skill levels with training on key fundamentals, match play, fitness and more.
“US Sports Camps is honored to be working with the great staff up at Rugby Oregon this summer,” states Vice President of Nike Rugby Camps, Nicholas Brunner. “Their organization has unparalleled access to high-level coaches, training curriculums and active rugby players which enables us to provide an amazing week of camp.”
Participants receive hands-on training from Rugby Oregon High Performance Coaches, Troy Hall (former USA Eagle), and Stew Magorian, as well as Oregon State Rugby Club Head Coach, Anthony Lally. Hall and Magorian have extensive rugby experience both as coaches and players. Hall was a member of the 7s and 15s USA National Teams from 2008-2015 and currently serves as director of development for Rugby Oregon. Stew Magorian, who has held the position of rugby development officer since 2014, played professional rugby in England and Italy including an appearance in Europe’s Heineken Cup. The staff is rounded out by current and former national team players, university coaches and collegiate-level players.
Take the jump to read more.
“We're excited to partner with an organization like Nike Rugby Camps to deliver our first residency camp for boys and girls,” says Jenn Heinrich, president and CEO of Rugby Oregon. “Integrating Nike Rugby Camps’ proven systems with Rugby Oregon's experience and professional coaches was a natural fit. Delivering this opportunity in our backyard on the OSU campus makes it all the more special.”
Nike Rugby Camp at Oregon State (powered by Rugby Oregon) runs from July 31 – August 3. Campers reside in campus dorms, eat in the dining halls and utilize OSU’s athletic fields for rugby activities. The overnight program includes all rugby training, meals, housing and evening activities. A commuter option (9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.) is also available to accommodate athletes from the local area. Boys and girls, ages 12-18, are welcome to enroll and players are split into training groups based on gender, age and skill level to ensure a meaningful experience for all ruggers alike.
“The excitement amongst our players is already there for sure,” states Camp Co-Director, Troy Hall. “It's going to be a great experience for all involved; on and off the field for both the coaches and players.”
The comprehensive overnight camp costs $375 and the commuter option is $275. Full details and registration can be found by visiting Nike Rugby Camps.
About Nike Rugby Camps
Nike Rugby Camps (NRC) is a division of US Sports Camps, Inc., America’s largest sports camp network. In 2013 NRC joined forces with ELITE Rugby Camps and Evolution Rugby Camps to reach over 5,000 new and experienced players. To explore a variety of camp options and locations please visit the official website for Nike Rugby Camps.
About Rugby Oregon
Founded in 1999, Rugby Oregon is a State Rugby Organization (SRO) overseeing youth and high school rugby in Oregon and SW Washington. Rugby Oregon is a member of USA Rugby, the national governing body for the sport of rugby in America, and Full Sport Member of the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) and the International Rugby Board (IRB). Currently headquartered in Portland, OR, Rugby Oregon is charged with developing the youth and high school game and has over 1,500 active members.
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Q&A: The Call For Questions
As always, submit your questions to us via a comment on this post, on Twitter, or on Facebook. Please submit your question by this Friday at 5:00 p.m. pt.
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PRO Rugby POTW, Standings, & Scoring Leaders
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| Photo: Colleen McCloskey |
Player of the Week: Sebastian Kalm
There were once again a lot of good candidates. Pedrie Wannenberg was outstanding for Denver, Phil Mackenzie was strong for San Diego, and Shaun Davies was superb for Ohio. However, for us it came down to Sebastian Kalm. The Santiago native and former Lindenwood player was everywhere on the pitch for Ohio in their big win over San Francisco. It wasn't just his two tries, which were excellent, but it was his general presence that made him so effective. He's a young player so he has a bright future ahead.
Standings
The standings are pretty straightforward. Denver now have a firm lead on the rest of the competition with three wins. They are a full seven points clear of both Ohio and San Diego. At the same time it's important to remember that Denver are only a fourth of the way through their season while Ohio and Denver are only a sixth of the way through. It's still very early.
Take the jump to read more.
Ohio are the highest scoring team at the moment thanks to their big win over San Francisco. They are at 32 points a game. Sacramento aren't far behind at 30.5 per game. The difference is that Ohio have only given up 33 points. Purely on point totals Denver is the best defensively team at 15.6 per game.
For San Francisco the main difference between winning and losing has been their defense. They have given up a league high 123 points. Their 60 points is only 13 behind Denver's over three matches but Denver has only given up 47. In comparison, San Francisco is giving up 41 points a match.
| Team | Record (W-L-D) | PF | PA | PD | BP | Points |
| Denver | 3-0-0 | 73 | 47 | +26 | 1 | 13 |
| Ohio | 1-0-1 | 64 | 33 | +31 | 2 | 6 |
| San Diego | 1-0-1 | 53 | 46 | +7 | 2 | 6 |
| Sacramento | 1-1-0 | 61 | 62 | -1 | 1 | 5 |
| San Francisco | 0-3-0 | 60 | 123 | -63 | 0 | 0 |
Scoring & Try Scoring Leaders
San Diego's Kurt Morath continues to lead the scoring chart with 26 points but Volney Rouse and Will Magie aren't far behind. Then there is Shaun Davies, JP Eloff, and Mirco Bergamasco. On the try scoring side of things seven players are tied with two tries each. No one has yet to fully separate themselves from the rest of the pack.
| Scoring Leaders | Total |
| Kurt Morath | 26 |
| Volney Rouse | 22 |
| Will Magie | 20 |
| Shaun Davies | 15 |
| JP Eloff | 12 |
| Mirco Bergamasco | 11 |
| 8 Tied | 10 |
| 22 Tied | 5 |
| Martini Talapusi | 3 |
| Niku Kruger | 3 |
| Kalei Konrad | 2 |
| Try Scorers | Total |
| Logan Collins | 2 |
| Spike Davis | 2 |
| JP Eloff | 2 |
| Zach Fenoglio | 2 |
| Sebastian Kalm | 2 |
| Phil Mackenzie | 2 |
| Mike Te’o | 2 |
| Pedrie Wannenburg | 2 |
| Orene Ai’i | 1 |
| Michael Al-Jiboori | 1 |
| Ray Barkwill | 1 |
| Garrett Brewer | 1 |
| Pierce Dargan | 1 |
| Filippo Ferrarini | 1 |
| Jacob Finau | 1 |
| Sam Finau | 1 |
| Cecil Garber | 1 |
| Alec Gletzer | 1 |
| Ollie Kilifi | 1 |
| Ryan Koewler | 1 |
| Chad London | 1 |
| Ata Malifa | 1 |
| Robert Meeson | 1 |
| Jope Motokana | 1 |
| Jack O’Hara | 1 |
| Volney Rouse | 1 |
| Siupeli Sakalia | 1 |
| Roland Suniula | 1 |
| David Tameilau | 1 |
| Nick Wallace | 1 |
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Van Klein, Fawsitt Join Ohio
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| Dylan Fawsitt |
Some will be wondering why Van Klein and Fawsitt would be headed to Ohio given that San Francisco is in need of the most reinforcements. It's a bit more complicated than that. You have to take into consideration things like living experiences, connections like geography (both Van Klein and Fawsitt are based closer to Ohio), and more. Having said that, from what we understand reinforcements are on their way to San Francisco and the league will be signing a few additional players soon.
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Eagles 30 Tickets: The Summer Tour
The Eagles will begin their summer series in about a month and a half. With the ARC in the rear view mirror and with PRO Rugby sifting through players head coach John Mitchell is going to have some choices to make. With that in mind we have our latest edition of 30 tickets where we look at who we think will be on the team. It should come with the disclaimer that in all likelihood there could be more than 30 players used and there are bound to be surprises.
Prop: Eric Fry, Titi Lamositele, Chris Baumann, Ollie Kilifi
As always we'll start with the props. It's pretty clear that at this point Eric Fry and Titi Lamositele are the top two choices at the position. Fry hasn't been playing a lot at Newcastle this year and the rumors have him potentially coming to PRO Rugby. Either way, he should be ready to go for the summer. Lamositele has taken on a greater role at Saracens and he could be tired but with only two matches he shows up and plays.
The big question is going to be who rounds out the group. Chris Baumann and Ollie Kilifi seem like the go-to options at this point and should at least be in camp. Ben Tarr and Angus MacLellan have been getting good time in PRO Rugby and are in the Eagles Elite Training Squad. If the idea is to build for the next World Cup then it makes sense to bring Tarr, MacLellan, and a player like Val Lee-Lo along. We think that they may see time but against Italy it's Fry, Lamositele, Baumann, and Kilifi.
Take the jump to read more.
Hooker: James Hilterbrand, Mike Sosene-Feagai, Joe Taufete'e
One of the best surprises of the ARC was the play of Joe Taufete'e. He hasn't been playing for San Diego yet but he should be available for next month's matches. At this point he appears like the top choice at hooker but he's going to have to ward off James Hilterbrand and Mike Sosene-Feagai. Yes, Hilterbrand saw some brief time in Super Rugby this year but when he was on the ARC squad he didn't always start. Plus, he may not be available. Sosene-Feagai also looked decent at the ARC but there will be competition. Tom Coolican has been one of San Francisco's most consistent players this year while Zach Fenoglio is back healthy and on a tear. We're going to go with Taufete'e, Hilterbrand, and Sosene-Feagai as making the roster.
Lock: Greg Peterson, Cam Dolan, Nate Brakeley
If everyone was healthy and available the first choice pairing is pretty obvious with Greg Peterson and Samu Manoa. Peterson has been having an excellent season with Glasgow and will be a leader this summer. Manoa is the bigger question mark. He should be getting ready to make his return for Toulon but if he can't come back for the Top 14 season it seems very unlikely that he'll be back for two matches this summer. It's probably better for him to rest ahead of next season.
Ben Landry and Brodie Orth found their groove during the ARC but Landry is trying to make the NFL and Orth has been injured. James King was thrust into the fire at the ARC. He may garner another look while Cam Dolan can also slide down into the second row. We think that's the case if Manoa can't go. Nate Brakeley also came in and did well. With the injuries and absences it would shock us to see him on the team. Whether or not Dolan slides down into the locks depends a lot on the options the Eagles have in the back-row. If he plays in the back-row then we think King makes the team.
Back-row: Todd Clever, Andrew Durutalo, David Tameilau, Aladdin Schirmer, Al McFarland, John Quill
There will be no Danny Barrett this summer with the Olympics taking priority but even without him the Eagles are going to have a lot (seriously, a lot) of options in the back-row. Todd Clever, Andrew Durutalo, and David Tameilau are the top three at the moment but don't discount Al McFarland who was strong at the World Cup. John Quill is back playing a lot of rugby and has looked strong with Sacramento. Then there are the likes of Bruce Thomas (if healthy), Aladdin Schirmer, Hanco Germishuys, Alec Gletzer, and Harry Higgins. We think that Schirmer, McFarland, and Quill make the cut with maybe more coming into the team later.
Scrumhalf: Tom Bliss, Niku Kruger
Scrumhalf is one position in which the Eagles will almost certainly go with youth. Tom Bliss and Niku Kruger are both young and hungry. Kruger has seen more time in PRO Rugby so far with Bliss often playing behind Charlie Purdon but that doesn't mean he won't get called in. Another player that we think should get a look is Shaun Davies. He's been outstanding for Ohio this year.
Fly-half: AJ MacGinty, James Bird
AJ MacGinty is the first choice, full stop. He's back playing for Connacht and will be a big part of the Eagles this summer. James Bird had his ups and downs at the ARC but it was mainly positive. For the most part he looked very much like MacGinty's back-up. If there are a couple of players that might make a break through it's JP Eloff (although he can play in a different position) and Will Magie.
Center: Chad London, Ryan Matyas, Lemoto Filikitonga, Andrew Suniula
Normally the Eagles would have even more options here if the 7s team weren't occupied. All the same the Eagles will still have good options. Chad London had a good ARC and has been playing well for Denver. He seems like a likely starter. Ryan Matyas has maybe had the most impressive season so far in PRO Rugby. He's playing really well and it's hard to see him not being a part of the squad in some form. He may not be the biggest player but he's making up for it with head's up plays. Outside of that there aren't any obvious players to include the team. Lorenzo Thomas probably won't be healthy in time, Lemoto Filikitonga is a good option, and Andrew Suniula says he still wants to play. Maybe we see the return of Seamus Kelly but word has it that he wants to focus on work in New York.
Wing: Blaine Scully, Taku Ngwenya, Luke Hume, Pila Huihui
As has been the case over the last few years the Eagles have depth on the wings. Blaine Scully and Taku Ngwenya seem like the obvious choices to start. They bring the most experience and Scully is the one of the team's best players. There are openings behind them. Luke Hume is back and playing very well for Old Blue. He's a coaches favorite and we think that with Mitchell seeing him in person last weekend it had to have made an impression.
Pila Huihui has been tearing it up with SFGG and after missing out on some chances to play for the Eagles the past few seasons needs to get a look. Tim Maupin has been helping Trinity to promotion in Ireland. Kingsley McGowan is another option but he's taken some time off. Then there is Tim Stanfill who has been good for San Diego. We think that Hume and Huihui make it.
Fullback: Jake Anderson, Mike Te'o
Blaine Scully could slide back into fullback but we think that Mitchell goes with someone else. Even though San Francisco has struggled this year Jake Anderson has been outstanding. He was also good at the ARC. He's got all the attributes to be a key part of the Eagles going forward. Mikey Te'o also has been playing very well. One name that could surprise is Conor Kearns. He's been a teammate of Maupin at Trinity and has been a consistent starter.
Here's who we have making the roster:
Forwards: Eric Fry, Titi Lamositele, Chris Baumann, Ollie Kilifi, James Hilterbrand, Mike Sosene-Feagai, Joe Taufete'e, Greg Peterson, Cam Dolan, Nate Brakeley, Todd Clever, Andrew Durutalo, David Tameilau, Aladdin Schirmer, Hanco Germishuys, John Quill
Backs: Tom Bliss, Niku Kruger, AJ MacGinty, James Bird, Chad London, Ryan Matyas, Lemoto Filikitonga, Andrew Suniula, Blaine Scully, Taku Ngwenya, Luke Hume, Pila Huihui, Jake Anderson, Mike Te'o
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Opening Kick
Opening Kick is a segment devoted to bringing you all Eagles and U.S.A. Rugby news in one location. It is brought to you everyday by Rugby Marketplace, your independent rugby store!
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
The Eagles start their summer series in a month and a half. We take a look at who we think might be on the team.
Ohio have added reinforcements to their team in the form of Derrek Van Klein and Dylan Fawsitt.
Sebastian Kalm is our PRO Rugby POTW while we also check in on the standings and scoring leaders.
We are holding another Q&A so make sure to submit your questions by Friday!
Club/College:
Highlights of week thirteen in the Pacific Rugby Premiership are up!
The local news in both Utah and Berkeley examine the Varsity Cup final.
Take the jump to read more.
Springbok Francois Louw is headed to New York to put on a clinic with Old Blue.
Nike Rugby Camps are headed to Oregon this summer.
Alex Solomon has a good piece on the collective team effort of Life.
U.S.A. Rugby has a preview of the women's DI and DII finals.
World:
The Barbarians will be taking on Fiji in Ulster this Remembrance Day.
Tonga have named Toutai Kefu as their new head coach through the World Cup.
Quade Cooper won't be in Rio after he's been dropped from consideration.
Glen Ella will join the England staff for their tour of Australia.
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
The Eagles start their summer series in a month and a half. We take a look at who we think might be on the team.
Ohio have added reinforcements to their team in the form of Derrek Van Klein and Dylan Fawsitt.
Sebastian Kalm is our PRO Rugby POTW while we also check in on the standings and scoring leaders.
We are holding another Q&A so make sure to submit your questions by Friday!
Club/College:
Highlights of week thirteen in the Pacific Rugby Premiership are up!
The local news in both Utah and Berkeley examine the Varsity Cup final.
Take the jump to read more.
Springbok Francois Louw is headed to New York to put on a clinic with Old Blue.
Nike Rugby Camps are headed to Oregon this summer.
Alex Solomon has a good piece on the collective team effort of Life.
U.S.A. Rugby has a preview of the women's DI and DII finals.
World:
The Barbarians will be taking on Fiji in Ulster this Remembrance Day.
Tonga have named Toutai Kefu as their new head coach through the World Cup.
Quade Cooper won't be in Rio after he's been dropped from consideration.
Glen Ella will join the England staff for their tour of Australia.
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College Top Ten: It's Finals Week!
BYU keeps the top spot in our College Top Ten while their Varsity Cup opponents, Cal, are in third. Number two, Life, will go up against number four, St. Mary's, in the DI-A final this week.
1. BYU (Last Week: 1; bye): The Cougars had the weekend off to prepare for this weekend's Varsity Cup final at South Field. They are the favorites in the match although matches between BYU and Cal have been close in recent years. Up next: Cal (Varsity Cup final)
2. Life (LW: 2; beat Lindenwood 41-7): Life are on a roll and enter this weekend's DI-A final match in the right form. They have progressively gotten better so far this spring with their win over Lindenwood as the latest evidence. Yes, Lindenwood were missing several players to All-American duty but it was still an impressive win. Up next: St. Mary's (DI-A final)
3. Cal (LW: 3; bye): Like BYU, Cal had the weekend off to prepare for the final. Up next: BYU (Varsity Cup final)
Take the jump to read more.
4. St. Mary's (LW: 4; beat Utah 81-32): The Gaels had the easier draw than Life but they should they mean business with a big win over Utah. After some early struggles by their standards St. Mary's have begun to turn it on and are also in good form. Up next: Life (DI-A final)
5. Central Washington (LW: 5; season finished): The Wildcats have finished their season.
6. Lindenwood (LW: 6; lost to Life 41-7): We thought about whether or not to move Lindenwood up or down but in the end decided to keep them where they were. It's too bad for them they were missing players to the JAAs. Up next: Season finished
7. Indiana (LW: 7; bye): The Hoosiers have finished their season outside of the CRC. Up next: CRC
8. Utah (LW: 8; lost to St. Mary's 81-32): It would have been easy to drop Utah after their big loss to St. Mary's but give Utah credit, they held a lead in the match and were generally tough in the first half. The Utes have also been one of the busiest teams in college rugby. Up next: CRC
9. Arkansas State (LW: 9; bye): The Red Wolves have finished their season outside of the CRC. Up next CRC
10. UCLA (LW: 10; bye): The Bruins have finished their season outside of the CRC. Up next: CRC
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DI Recap & Playoff Outlook
Red River
Arguably the biggest match in DI over the weekend was in Texas were the Dallas Reds beat the Austin Blacks 16-15 in a classic match between two rivals. With the win the Reds have leapfrogged Austin in the standings for first place. The two teams will square off again in Tucson on May 21st in the quarterfinals.
Hamish Roberts got things started for the Blacks with a penalty but that was quickly matched by one from Blake Boulton. Bryan Laserich then scored a try for the Reds to give them a 10-3 lead. Levi Kereti scored Austin's first try but without the conversion, and another penalty by Boulton, they trailed 13-8 at halftime.
Take the jump to read more.
In the second half Austin took the lead thanks to a converted Antonio Winn try. However, another Boulton penalty would put Austin one point in front. Even with thirty minutes left to play in the match neither team could find another score.
In the other match in the region New Orleans beat HARC 32-15.
Pacific South
The Old Aztecs did what they needed to on their march in the Pacific South as they beat Los Angeles 74-5. They already clinched the top spot awhile but for Los Angeles the loss means that they won't be making the playoffs. The final playoff spot goes to OMBAC who play their final match of the season next week against Belmont Shore. The Old Aztecs close out the season against Santa Monica, who forfeited against Downtown last weekend.
Pacific North
The Pacific North had the weekend off ahead of this week's final between ORSU and Life West. The winners of the Pacific South will play the winner of the Pacific North in the quarterfinals. The winner of that match will play either Austin or Dallas in the semi-finals the next day.
Midwest
After breezing through the Midwest regular season the Chicago Lions were the heavy favorites to advance in the Midwest playoffs. Their only blemish was a loss on the last week of the season to the Chicago Griffins. It turns out that loss would be an omen of things to come as the Griffins upset the Lions 19-8 to advance in the playoffs. The Griffins scored an early try through Josh Allan and then four penalties from Pete Smith would give them the win.
Joining the Griffins in the Midwest final is Metropolis. They beat the Kansas City Blues 29-22. Sean Kelly (twice), Ratu Baleirara, Joel Yogerst, and Ekapatelisio Veamatahau all had tries. The Griffins and Metropolis play this weekend.
Atlantic North
Whoever wins out of the Griffins and Metropolis will play Mystic River, the number two team from the Atlantic North. Mystic River were guaranteed a spot in the quarterfinals heading into the weekend but it was up to them to see if they could beat NYAC for the top spot. Unfortunately the couldn't in a 46-24 loss. Old Blue are the number one seed and will play the winner from the Mid-Atlantic.
Mid-Atlantic
The Mid-Atlantic wrapped up regular season play last weekend. The only things up in the air in terms of the playoffs was whether Baltimore-Chesapeake or Pittsburgh would grab the final playoff spot. That was put to rest when Baltimore-Chesapeake beat the Potomac Exile 35-25. Pittsburgh did their part with a 38-14 win over NOVA but it wasn't enough. Rocky Gorge finished their season with a perfect record thanks to a 62-7 win over the Raleigh Vipers. They enter the playoffs as the number one seed and will play Baltimore-Chesapeake. Norfolk are the number two seed and will play Schuylkill River. Those two teams met last weekend with Schuylkill River prevailing 34-29.
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South Panthers Play Bermuda On Saturday
The South Panthers continue their 2016 season this weekend with a home match against Bermuda. The match will be held at the grounds of Atlanta Old White and will be streamed live. The Panthers have had a stop start method to 2016 with World Cup qualifying occupying some of the Caribbean countries. It's expected that the Panthers will resume their Rugby Americas North schedule next year.
Roster: Alex Czajkowski (Richmond), Alex Nazon (Charleston), Amro Gouda (Charlotte), Ben Paul (Columbus/Fort Benning), Bryan Baiss (Tampa Bay Krewe), Calvin Storey (Raleigh), Charlie Hutchings (Tampa Bay Krewe), Daniel Stokes (Atlanta Old White), Drew Moyes (Atlanta Old White), Ethan Winel (Chattanooga), Gerald Roettger (Charleston), Irving Carcamo (Charlotte), James Lawson (Jackson), Jarrett Gartin (North Atlanta), Lucas Baistrocchi (Boston), Matt Mendelssohn (Columbia), Mike Sanders (Macon), Nathan Ring (Nashville), Ron Omondi (Atlanta Old White), Thomas Van Petten (Life), Todd Sherer (Columbia), Ty Elkins (Charlotte), Tyler Bishop (Tallahassee), Waymon Cassell (Nashville), Zach Miller (North Atlanta)
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PRO Rugby Power Rankings: Denver Move First
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| Photo: Colleen McCloskey |
We have a new leader in our power rankings and it should come as no surprise that it's Denver. The team has been very impressive in their three matches so far, especially in their highly anticipated match against San Diego last week. Also moving up this week is Ohio.
1. Denver (3-0-0; LW: 2; beat San Diego 22-16): As mentioned, Denver had a great week against San Diego. It wasn't perfect and they almost lost it at the end but they are now the only team remaining unbeaten in the competition and with a bye week coming up will be able to rest ahead of a busy May. They may not have some of the big international names as other teams but they arguably have the most depth in the competition. Up next: Bye
2. Ohio (1-1-0; LW: 4; beat San Francisco 51-17): A lot of eyes were on Ohio to see how they would play after losing to Denver in the snow in week one. The team responded really well and showed that they are a team to be reckoned with this season. Shaun Davies is looking very strong as are players like Sebastian Kalm, Matt Hughston, and others. They have another big test this week against Sacramento. Up next: Sacramento
Take the jump to read more.
3. San Diego (1-1-0; LW: 1; lost to Denver 22-16): San Diego had a chance to beat Denver on Sunday but they left it too late to turn it on. Their backs were once again strong but coming up against a better defensive team in Denver they didn't enjoy the same amount of possession they had against Sacramento. Up next: San Francisco
4. Sacramento (1-0-0; LW: 4; Bye): Sacramento had last weekend off. It's a big unfortunate that they fall a spot but Ohio was impressive. Up next: Ohio
5. San Francisco (0-3-0; LW: 5; lost to Ohio 51-17): The warning bells are going off in San Francisco after their third straight loss. The team can score but defensively they are having significant problems. Many of those problems appear to be related to fitness. While some of the players have the adequate fitness to compete, others, especially in the forwards, don't. If San Francisco can improve in that department they should be one of the best teams in the competition. If not, then they could be in for a long year. Up next: San Diego
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DII & DIII Playoff Update
The DII and DIII playoffs are continuing to heat up. Here is the latest on where things stand.
DII
East Regional
In the East only Charlotte has advanced to the quarterfinals on May 21st as South champions. They did that by edging out the Miami Tridents 34-33. In the semi-finals they beat Nashville 30-11 while Miami beat Chattanooga 42-27. Charlotte will play the winner of the Midwest. Right now that's down to either the Detroit Tradesmen or the South Side Irish. The Tradesmen beat the Eastside Banshees 57-0 and the South Side Irish beat the Cleveland Crusaders 16-14.
The other side of the East regional is still up in the air. The Atlantic North is down to the Mystic Barbarians and the Village Lions. The Barbarians beat Newport 20-17 while the Lions handled New Haven Old Black 52-19. The Mid-Atlantic is down to their final four. Richmond will play Old Gaelic and Wilmington will play Philadelphia Whitemarsh.
Take the jump to read more.
West Regional
Out West the Portland Pigs and Sacramento Capitals will play for the Pacific North title this weekend in Seattle. Whoever wins that match will play either Huntington Beach or the Tempe Old Devils. Huntington Beach beat Ventura County 28-25 for the SoCal title while the Old Devils beat Red Mountain 31-13 for the Arizona title.
In the Red River it will be Houston United up against the Dallas Reds DII side. The Austin Blacks DII team will play the Little Rock Stormers. The winner from the Red River will be up against the Frontier winner in the quarterfinals. The Frontier is down to Boulder against the St. Louis Bombers and the Omaha Goats against Provo.
DIII
East Regional
As the winners from the South the Savannah Shamrocks have punched their tickets to the quarterfinals. The beat Southern Pines 53-26 in the South final. In the semi-finals they beat Montgomery 33-21 and Southern Pines beat Sarasota 37-20. They will wait for the winner of either the Grand Rapids Gazelles or the Bremer County Bucks. The Gazelles beat Columbus 55-5 and Bremer County beat the Fox Valley Maoris 25-12 to make the final.
In the Atlantic North, New York winner the Fairfield Yankees will go up against MIT. The Yankees barely edged the Rockaway Fisheads 47-46 and MIT beat Old Gold 29-25. The Mid-Atlantic is down to eight teams. The winner of Reading/Blacksburg will play the winner of Schuylkill River/Newport News in one bracket. In the other it will be Renegades/South Jersey against Virginia Beach/Rocky Gorge.
West Regional
The Pacific South is down to the Orange County Ravens against the Northern Arizona Landsharks. Orange County beat Beaumont 37-12 and Northern Arizona defeated Phoenix 75-5. They will play either the 43rd State Crimson Lions or Napa Valley from the Pacific North.
In the Frontier it's down to the Wichita Barbarians against the St. Louis Royals and the Denver Highlanders against the Columbia Outlaws. In the Red River the Euless Texans will play the San Marcos Greys and the Austin Blacks DIII will play Houston United DIII.
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Opening Kick
Opening Kick is a segment devoted to bringing you all Eagles and U.S.A. Rugby news in one location. It is brought to you everyday by Rugby Marketplace, your independent rugby store!
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
PRO Rugby continues to get local press. In Sacramento the local radio is covering the team as is The Sacramento Bee. Over in Ohio the local news station got in on the action.
Our latest PRO Rugby Power Rankings are in with Denver moving into first.
The South Panthers have named their line-up to take on Bermuda on Saturday.
Pat Clifton writes that U.S.A. Rugby is at a crossroads at a crucial time while Jake Frechette looks at attacking decision-making by fly-halfs in PRO Rugby.
Club/College:
It should come as no surprise that the top four teams in our College Top Ten will be playing for hardware this weekend.
Take the jump to read more.
Highlights are in for last Tuesday's match between SFGG and Glendale.
Alex Solomon has a nice piece on the club culture that is a mainstay at St. Mary's.
Many in the Northwest rugby community are headed to Montana this weekend for Maggotfest.
The DI playoff picture is becoming more clear after a busy weekend. We also check in with DII and DIII.
The BYU women only received official recognition from their school recently but it's helped them grow.
Notre Dame College is looking to prevent a DI-AA repeat by UC-Davis.
Jackie Finlan has more on Davenport and their trip to California.
World:
Alex Corbisiero discusses the stereotype about players need time off.
National Teams/PRO Rugby:
PRO Rugby continues to get local press. In Sacramento the local radio is covering the team as is The Sacramento Bee. Over in Ohio the local news station got in on the action.
Our latest PRO Rugby Power Rankings are in with Denver moving into first.
The South Panthers have named their line-up to take on Bermuda on Saturday.
Pat Clifton writes that U.S.A. Rugby is at a crossroads at a crucial time while Jake Frechette looks at attacking decision-making by fly-halfs in PRO Rugby.
Club/College:
It should come as no surprise that the top four teams in our College Top Ten will be playing for hardware this weekend.
Take the jump to read more.
Highlights are in for last Tuesday's match between SFGG and Glendale.
Alex Solomon has a nice piece on the club culture that is a mainstay at St. Mary's.
Many in the Northwest rugby community are headed to Montana this weekend for Maggotfest.
The DI playoff picture is becoming more clear after a busy weekend. We also check in with DII and DIII.
The BYU women only received official recognition from their school recently but it's helped them grow.
Notre Dame College is looking to prevent a DI-AA repeat by UC-Davis.
Jackie Finlan has more on Davenport and their trip to California.
World:
Alex Corbisiero discusses the stereotype about players need time off.
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Weekend Television Listings
If you are a fan of watching American rugby matches you are in luck this weekend with another full slate. It starts on Saturday with the college rugby finals beating streamed live on The Rugby Channel and then it caps off on Sunday with Sacramento vs. Ohio. In between you have a couple of PRP matches on the penultimate weekend and the South Panthers taking on Bermuda. You of course have Super Rugby and action from Europe as well.
If you know of an event or a tournament that is not on our list, please share it with us at thisisamericanrugby@gmail.com.
Friday:
- Bordeaux vs. Grenoble, 2:45 p.m. et(Saturday)/12:45 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Force vs. Sunwolves, 1:15 a.m. et(Sunday)/10:15 p.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
Saturday:
- Highlanders vs. Chiefs, 3:35 a.m. et/12:35 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Cheetahs vs. Waratahs, 5:45 a.m. et/2:45 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Hurricanes vs. Sharks, 9:00 a.m. et/6:00 a.m. pt live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Gloucester vs. Northampton, 10:30 a.m. et/7:30 a.m. pt (live on beIN Sports Connect)
- Harlequins vs. Exeter, 10:30 a.m. et/7:30 a.m. pt (live on beIN Sports Connect)
- Blues vs. Kings, 11:10 a.m. et/8:10 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Davenport vs. USC, 12:00 p.m. et/9:00 a.m. pt (therugbychannel.tv)
- Dragons vs. Montpellier, 12:30 p.m. et/9:30 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- South Panthers vs. Bermuda, 1:00 p.m. et/10:00 a.m. pt (live here)
- Notre Dame vs. UC-Davis (M), 2:00 p.m. et/11:00 a.m. pt (therugbychannel.tv)
- BYU (M) vs. Cal, 5:00 p.m. et/2:00 p.m. pt (live on NBCSN
- BYU (W) vs. Penn State, 4:00 p.m. et/1:00 p.m. pt (therugbychannel.tv)
- Glendale Raptors vs. Denver Barbarians, 5:00 p.m. et/2:00 p.m. pt (live here)
- Olympic Club vs. Santa Monica, 6:00 p.m. et/3:00 p..m. pt (live on USARugbyTV)
- Life vs. St. Mary's, 6:00 p.m. et/3:00 p.m. pt (therugbychannel.tv)
- UC-Davis (W) vs. Virginia, 8:00 p.m. et/5:00 p.m. pt (therugbychannel.tv)
- Castres vs. Toulon, 3:00 p.m. et/12:00 p.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
- Sacramento vs. Ohio, 8:00 p.m. et/5:00 p.m. pt (live on aol.com and on One World Sports)
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Tameilau, Civetta Joining Newcastle
There will be Americans at Newcastle after all next year. The club announced today that they have signed David Tameilau and Nick Civetta for next season. Both players have some versatility with Tameilau playing in the back-row and Civetta playing lock. Both can change positions if needed. Tameilau has four caps for the Eagles while Civetta has been in the playing pool. It's looking like Tameilau will stay for most, if not all, of the PRO Rugby season according to sources.
Newcastle Falcons director of rugby Dean Richards said in a release: “Both David and Nick fit the profile of what we are looking for in our forward pack for next season.
"David is a destructive runner who offers us something different in attack, and has the ability to put on some big defensive hits. He has masses of ability and I believe could go on to become a world-class player.
Take the jump to read more.
"Nick is a rounded forward who will add to our physical threat, and we look forward to working with both of them when they arrive for pre-season.”
The team currently has three Americans on their roster in Todd Clever, Eric Fry, and Paddy Ryan. Clever and Fry see their contracts end at the close of the season and both are widely rumored to making a move to PRO Rugby. No word yet on the status of Ryan.
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