This Is American Rugby

Another PRO12 to the U.S. report has surfaced. This time it's IRFU chief executive Philip Browne telling the Irish Times that change is needed to the PRO12 in order to remain competitive and that a good option to look at might be coming to the United States. Once again there aren't a lot of specifics other than to say that it's potentially lucrative. He also implied that the team could be run by the Irish provinces with Irish players and coaches.

In the article Browne does admit that going to the U.S. is going to cause problems but at the same time there is a sense that some in Europe don't quite grasp the realities of the situation. Travel is certainly an issue and it's going to be very difficult for Americans to support a team if there isn't a significant amount of Americans on the team itself. Still, it's something to keep an eye on.

Photo: Connie Hatfield

The San Francisco Rush put themselves in position to potentially finish third in the standings after beating San Diego 50-26 at Boxer Stadium. Given the slow start to the season for the Rush they now have three wins and have turned into one of the most exciting teams in the league.

It only took a few minutes for San Francisco to get on the board. From a San Diego put in at the scrum Orene Ai'i read the subsequent play beautifully to intercept the ball and go in for the try. After the try the Rush continued to press forward and around the ten minute mark earned a penalty that Rouse would hit to push the score to 10-0. Rouse had a great day from the tee scoring 15 points.

San Diego did have some bright moments but it was San Francisco that would score once again. A great skip pass from Ai'i to Martini Talapusi put the Rush in space and when Talapusi passed to Devereaux Ferris he was in for the team's second try. With just 14 minutes played San Francisco led 17-0.

Take the jump to read more.
Credit to San Diego as they immediately responded. A great run from Taku Ngwenya sucked in the defense which opened up space for Tai Tuisamoa to subsequently take a great pass from Charlie Pudon out of the ruck for the score. Kalei Konrad would hit his first conversion of the day and San Diego were back within ten at 17-7. Unfortunately for them a mistake on the restart saw them given up yet another try. Tuisamoa wasn't able to handle the kick as it got caught in the wind. Bill Fukofuka was then able to scoop up the ball and pass to Rouse for the try.

Both teams weren't able to get much going for the next ten minutes. That changes when San Diego was able to pin the Rush in deep. Keeping the ball alive they were able to run through several phases before eventually Cecil Garber smashed through the defense for a try on the wing. With Konrad's conversion San Diego were once again down ten at 24-14. They did have a couple more chances before halftime to pick up points but Konrad wasn't able to convert on his attempt and they couldn't hold on to the ball after a strong run down the pitch.

The Rush opened up the second half in strong fashion with a try from Michael Haley thanks to some good work from the team's forwards. They continued to keep possession and put the Breakers under pressure. Eventually that would pay off. Nick Blevins did well to block a Mikey Te'o kick and then recover for the score. The conversion would be off but the Rush were well in charge at 36-14.

San Diego were once again able to respond with a try through Mike Te'o to cut into the lead. Taking the ball from deep in their own end San Diego showed great hands to go through several phases and passes. That set up Te'o taking a great pass to go in the rest of the way for the try. However, that was cancelled out a few minutes later as excellent passing from San Francisco set up Ferris for the score. With 20 minutes left San Francisco led 43-19.

Each team traded tries with San Diego scoring a great tries from Te'o and Derek Broussard and Ai'i responding with his second a few minutes later for San Francisco.

The Rush have to be happy with the quality of their attack in the match. They were extremely active and they were able to find their backs in good place. Additionally, they took it up another level defensively and were much more active getting off the line than they have been earlier in the season. On the other hand, San Diego have to be disappointed with yet another sub-par performance. They have now lost six straight performances on the year, a long fall from a team that was considered one of the contenders to take the title.

San Diego now finish out their season against Sacramento at Bonney Field next week while San Francisco host Denver in an important match for the Stampede.

San Francisco

Tries: Ai'i (2), Ferris (2), Rouse, Haley, Blevins
Conversion: Rouse 6)
Penalties: Rouse

San Diego

Tries: Tuisamoa, Garber, Te'o, Broussard
Conversion: Konrad (3)

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Super Rugby wrapped up the regular season over the weekend and that means for most Americans the season is over. Andrew Durutalo (although he's been at 7s camp) at Sunwolves, Marcel Brache at the Western Force, and James Hilterbrand (although he's mostly played in the Shute Shield) at the Waratahs are done. Toni Pulu with the Chiefs and Tony Lamborn with the Hurricanes are still alive. Hilterbrand missed out twice over the weekend as Manly were also eliminated from Shute Shield contention.

Australia:

Super Rugby

Marcel Brache started and played 56 minutes for the Western Force as they lost to the Brumbies 24-10 on Saturday.

James Hilterbrand was not in the line-up for the Waratahs as they lost to the Blues 34-28 last Friday. He mainly plays with Manly in the Shute Shield.

Shute Shield

Chris Chapman and Sydney University beat Parramatta 35-12 on Saturday.

James Hilterbrand and Manly lost to Northern Suburbs 24-23on Saturday.

Dewar Shield

James King and Moorabbin beat Box Hill 30-19 on Saturday.

Take the jump to read more.

New Zealand:

Super Rugby

Toni Pulu started, played 62 minutes, and scored a try for the Chiefs as they lost to the Highlanders 25-15 on Saturday.

Tony Lamborn was not in the line-up for the Hurricanes as they beat the Crusaders 35-10 on Saturday.

Other

Michelle Wong is training and playing with Sydenham.

Devin Ibanez is training and playing with Glenfield.

British Isles:

Aviva Premiership

Chris Wyles, Titi Lamositele, and Saracens have finished their season.

Todd Clever, Eric Fry, Paddy Ryan and Newcastle have finished their season. Clever and Fry won't be returning to Newcastle. David Tameilau and Nick Civetta are joining the club next year.

Thretton Palamo is joining Bristol next season.

Guinness Pro12

AJ MacGinty and Connacht have finished their season. He is moving to Sale next year.

Greg Peterson and Glasgow have finished their season.

Callum Black and Ulster have finished their season.

Sam Underhill and the Ospreys have finished their season.

Cam Dolan, Blaine Scully, and Cardiff have finished their season.

National League 1

Derek Lipscomb and Blackheath have finished their season.

Ronnie McLean and Richmond have finished their season.

Other

Ollie Drew plays with Bournemouth University.

Louis Mulholland plays with Bath University and occasionally with Cheshunt.

Dan Hostetler plays with Cardiff University.

All Ireland League

Tim Maupin, Conor Kearns, Jake Feury, Will Sims, Oisin Brady, and Ian Kinsley, and Trinity have finished their season.

Ross Deacon and Lansdowne have finished their season.

Liam Bourke and UCD have finished their season.

Liam Murphy and Clontarf have finished their season.

Gearoid McDonald and Dundalk have finished their season.

France:

Top 14

Samu Manoa and Toulon have finished their season.

Dave Ryan and Agen have finished their season.

Gagi Bazadze and La Rochelle have finished their season. Bazadze won't be back with the team next season.

Pro D2

Christian Ostberg and Aurillac have finished their season.

Federale 1

Seta Tuilevuka and ROC La Voulte-Valence have finished their season.

Mate Moeakiola and Castanet have finished their season.

Other

Victor Camptat plays for the Brive Reserves.

Mose Fualaau plays for the Clermont Academy.

Inaki Basauri plays for Stade Nantais.

Japan:

Super Rugby

Andrew Durutalo was not in the line-up for the Sunwolves as they lost to the Sharks 40-29 last Friday. Durutalo has finished his time with the Sunwolves even though the team has matches remaining to try and make the Olympic team.

Other:

BC Premier League

Graham Harriman and James Bay have finished their season.

Other

Alex Aronson is playing and training in the Philippines.

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!

Our partners Grubber are offering $10 off their Tradition shirt with the code: TRADITION

National Teams/PRO Rugby:

In case you missed it the men's and women's U.S. 7s teams were announced early yesterday.

Kevin Swiryn has an excellent must-read article on what it means to not be selected.

The Rugby Republic has an good piece on their take on the selections.

Pat Clifton got some brief comments from Mike Friday on his Olympic picks while Alex Goff has his take on the team.

Meanwhile World Rugby has a quick profile of Friday.

There are more rumblings out of the PRO12 that they are interesting in putting a team in America.

Take the jump to read more.

San Francisco put in one of their best performances of the season in beating San Diego. Highlights of the match can be found here.

The Super Rugby regular season came to a close but at least a couple of Americans are going to play on.

U.S.A. Rugby has brought on Amanda Cox as a Referee Administrator.

Club/College:

Cal has more on their rugby alumni in the Olympics, Danny Barrett.

The University of Utah has made a coaching change with Haloti Liava'a taking over.

World:

Planet Rugby has their latest look at who's hot and who's not.

The Olympics are just days away now. Both the men's and women's Eagles have selected their teams and #RioFever has taken over. For over the last year our friends at Grubber have been getting ready for the tournament with their Tradition shirt, a tribute to the 1920 and 1924 U.S. Olympic teams and a looking ahead to the 2016 teams. Whether you support the men or the women on their trip to keep the gold in American hands the Tradition shirt is a great option.

Stock is running low so if fans want to get in on the action they better hurry quickly or they'll miss out. We've partnered with Grubber to give you an advantage. You can get $10 if you use the code: TRADITION

Hurry now while supplies last! To order click on the image or click here.

Needing yet another bonus point win to keep pace with the Ohio Aviators the Denver Stampede rolled out to a big 59-13 win over the Sacramento Stampede in their final home match of the season. The Stampede now have 41 points through ten matches ensuring that even if they lose next week at San Francisco they will still have a chance at claiming the title. A win next week would put pressure on Ohio to get a win and deny a bonus point to the Stampede.

Early positive play from Sacramento actually saw them go on the board first as Mirco Bergamasco hit a penalty. However, that was soon quickly cancelled out with a try from Chad London. Superb running off Sacramento kicks down the field and some poor Sacramento defense was all it took for London to slip through.

Take the jump to read more.
Sacramento would have another shot soon after but this attempt from Bergamasco was off. Even if it had been Sacramento's defense wasn't up to scratch as they let in even more tries. All it took was more sustained pressure and a couple of quick passes to see Timana Tahu cross over (thanks in large part to the work of Ata Malifa). Bergamasco would claim a penalty soon after but when Zach Fenoglio scored Denver led with 20 minutes gone and were in full control.

The fourth try for Denver has a beauty as Will Magie put in a great grubber that was recovered by Max De Achaval for the try. The Denver forwards have been extremely solid over the course of the whole season but now it's the backs that are really shining, led by Magie. Our recent PRO Rugby Player of the Week has come on very strong and has the Denver offense clicking and picking up bonus points.

While Sacramento were outplayed on the day they did have several nice phases and were able to show some of the flashes of improved play that they have exhibited since returning from their long break. There are a lot of positives to take away in recent weeks and heading into their match against San Diego next week the Express will have to think that they can take away the win.

Although the hot conditions impacted play throughout the match Denver were still able to find their groove and when Malifa scored the team's fifth try of the day Denver went into the break up 33-6.

In the second half it was more of Denver. Sacramento didn't help themselves with Cam Falcon getting sent to the bin early. That man advantage soon allowed Tahu to grab his second try of the day. He was joined by Dustin Croy, Hanco Germishuys, and Mike Garrity on the scoresheet while Sacramento were able to get a try of their own through Alex Hodgkinson late in the match.

Denver

Tries: London, Tahu (2), Fenoglio, De Achaval, Malifa, Croy, Germishuys, Garrity
Conversions: Magie (7)

Sacramento

Tries: Hodgkinson
Conversions: Bergamasco
Penalties: Bergamasco

NYAC winning the Saratoga 7s title.

Several spots have been claimed out of the East for the upcoming Club 7s Nationals in Denver. Here is a rundown of how things went east of the Mississippi.

Atlantic North

Old Blue and Mystic River have booked their spots in the Club 7s Nationals after finishing first and second in the Atlantic North 7s Series. Old Blue took home the top spot thanks to their second place finish at the Saratoga 7s over the weekend. Mystic River finished third to barely edge out NYAC for a spot. NYAC actually won the Saratoga 7s but where in too big of a hole to climb out of unless either Mystic River or Old Blue stumbled mightily. That didn't happen and the two strong sides from the Atlantic North will look to be two of the favorites in Denver.

Mid-Atlantic

Schuylkill River will head into next weekend's Mid-Atlantic Championships with momentum despite having to settle for a draw at the Slug 7s in Columbia, Maryland. The Exiles were perfect on the day with big wins over Rocky Gorge, Norfolk, and the Baltimore-Chesapeake. In the semi-finals they beat Washington Irish to set up a meeting with Norfolk who finished second in their pool behind Schuylkill River. NOVA finished as the top seed in the other pool but lost a tight match to Norfolk in the semi-finals. Because of the lightening the final was not able to be held and Schuylkill River and Norfolk were crowned co-champions.

Take the jump to read more.

Heading in the Mid-Atlantic Championships next week Schuylkill River and NOVA look like the teams to beat and both have an inside track on the two spots to the Club 7s Nationals but Rocky Gorge could sneak in if results go their way.

South

There was only one tournament in the South over the weekend. The Oklahoma Elite have earned a spot in the South 7s Championship next week thanks to a win over the Atlanta Renegades at the Music City 7s. They were perfect in pool play and then beat Nashville in the semi-finals. Other teams from the South headed to Charlotte next week include New Orleans, Miami, Naples, Charlotte, and Atlanta Old White.

Midwest

The Chicago Lions moved one step closer to returning to the Club 7s Nationals after they won yet another tournament. This time it was the Ducks 7s. The win gives them 36 points in the standings, six ahead of their rivals the Chicago Blaze. Unfortunately for the Blaze they finished in fourth at the tournament behind Milwaukee meaning they have called further behind.

The Chicago Lions beat Metropolis in the final 19-12. The Lions previously beat The Blaze 27-24 in the semi-finals and were perfect in pool play. For Metropolis it was a strong showing that sees them move up the table.

The East part of the Midwest has a tournament this weekend before the Midwest championships the following weekend.

Santa Monica has the best jerseys in 7s this year. #ThanksToCanterbury

Earlier we looked around the East and now it's time to take a look around the West qualifiers for the Club 7s Nationals.

Pacific North

The Pacific North continues to be divided between the Pacific Northwest and Northern California with a final championship being held in San Francisco in two weeks. The Seattle Saracens continued their dominance in the Pacific Northwest with a win at the Roy Lucas 7s. They beat Westside Ronins in the final.

Just a note to add regarding the dominance of Seattle. Some may see it as a negative but the general vibe around the Northwest is that having Seattle has a goal for all teams to try and beat has improved the organization and play of every team in the region. There may be one dominant team but all boats are rising.

Take the jump to read more.

Pacific South

For the first time all season Belmont Shore didn't take home the title at a Pacific South 7s tournament. That honor at the Sunsplash 7s went to OMBAC who beat Santa Monica 15-10 in the final. Santa Monica upset Belmont Shore in the semi-finals 17-12 thanks to a try from Sean Pypers. Even though they finished second Santa Monica picked up enough points to sit number two in the standings with their home tournament left. Belmont Shore are still in first place.

Red River

The Red River Sevens Series had the weekend off. The final tournament takes place next weekend. With a win a piece the Austin Huns and Little Rock are heavy favorites heading into the final showdown. It would take a lot for either team to be surpassed and to miss out on a chance at the Club 7s Nationals.

Frontier

The Frontier also had the weekend off ahead of the Pioneer 7s this weekend in Utah. The Utah ODA has already clinched a spot but it's going to be a showdown between the Denver Barbarians and the Kansas City Blues. Whoever finishes higher will make the trip to Denver.

As reported earlier by TIAR the U.S. will be playing three matches this November. The first is against the Maori All Blacks in Chicago and then the U.S. will head to Europe to play Romania and Tonga. Now according to reports out Romania we know that the U.S. will be playing the Oaks in Bucharest on November 12th. That's about a week turnaround between the Maori All Blacks match on November 4th.

The date against Tonga gets a little complicated. Last TIAR understood the U.S. was going to play Tonga in France. However, when you look at the schedule Tonga is playing Uruguay on November 19th and then Italy on November 26th. If the Romania date is correct, which it seems to be, then it looks like the U.S. won't be playing Tonga after all. In fact, no obvious country seems available on the week of the 19th so either the U.S. are going to have a week training in Europe before a match on the weekend of the 26th or they are going to have to play someone else.

Take the jump to read more.
Head coach John Mitchell has said that it doesn't fit into the goals of the program to play a team like the RFU Championship XV meaning that it has to be a full international or close to it. If the U.S. are going to play on the weekend of the 19th that really only leaves the likes of Russia, Spain, and Portugal available, less than ideal. They could also play the England Saxons or a similar team.

The U.S. could wait a week and play on the weekend of the 26th. If that is the case Samoa is available that weekend but no one else is other than the three European B Nations listed above. Having an extra week in camp isn't a bad thing for the Eagles. They need as much camp time as they can get and this would be good.

Until something is officially announced (as it has with the Maori All Blacks) everything is up in the air.

Maori All Blacks--November 4th
Romania--November 12th
Third Test--TBD

The Lindenwood University men's team could miss out on post-season play next season after being found guilty of multiple violations. The team is currently appealing the decision to an independent review panel and if they are successful will be able to play in the post-seaosn next year. The reasons for the discipline include:

The actions of the team caught on film in two matches against Davenport University. Six total acts of foul play were referred to the DI-A Disciplinary Committee and as a result four players were sanctioned with one being suspended indefinitely.

An incident involving the forging of eligibility documents and the number of waivers (10 total with 3 denied) requested by the team. This was felt to be too excessive and against the spirit of the team by other DI-A teams.

Take the jump to read more.
According to documents obtained through multiple channels by TIAR it seems the overall willingness to bend the rules is what got them in hot water. From the documents:

1. The actions displayed by Lindenwood University Rugby team members have casted a black eye on D1A Rugby.
The quantity and tone of eligibility waivers suggest a systematic effort to build a rugby program based on “exceptions to the rule” and are not within “the spirit” of the college game.
The confirmed forgery of eligibility documents along with the resubmission and appeal of this case suggests a total disregard for the eligibility rules and brings to question the integrity of the entire Lindenwood program and administration.
IRB REGULATION 20. Misconduct and (Code of Conduct) states:
A Adherence to the Laws of the Game, Regulations Relating to the Game and the spirit of fair play remains fundamental to the proper administration and preservation of the Game in the modern era. Accordingly, a general obligation arises on all stakeholders to address Misconduct matters within their jurisdictions to ensure that discipline, control, honesty and mutual respect which are fundamental to the integrity of the Game are preserved. 20.2 Any act of Misconduct shall constitute an offence under this Regulation and may result in disciplinary proceedings being brought against and sanctions being imposed upon the Player, Person, Union, Association and/or Rugby Body involved.
20.3 For the purposes of these Regulations Relating to the Game, “Misconduct” shall mean any conduct, behaviour, statements and/or practices on or off the playing enclosure during or in connection with a Match or otherwise, that is unsporting and/or cheating and/or insulting and/or unruly and/or ill-disciplined and/or that brings or has the potential to bring the Game and/or any of its constituent bodies, World Rugby and/or its appointed personnel or commercial partners and/or Match Officials and/or judicial personnel into disrepute...

Lindenwood is the midst of their appeal but if the ban holds in place it will take away a team that was a legitimate threat to reach the DI-A title game next season and it would be a big blow to an up and coming power in college rugby.

Press Release

The Ontario Blues will host the defending champion Prairie Wolfpack in a crucial Canadian Rugby Championship game on Thursday, July 21 at Fletchers Fields, Markham. Kickoff is set for 630 pm

The Wolfpack are currently in first place, four points ahead of the second place Blues so it is all to play for in this massive conflict.

The Blues and Wolfpack (playing under the Alberta Selects banner) met earlier this season in Edmonton, with the Blues winning 19-9 on a rainy, cold day that produced only 3 tries, all by the Blues. The teams have met 10 times all time, with each winning 5 games.

Take the jump to read more.
Admission is $10 which includes a Johnsonville Sausage with your gate ticket.

The Blues 25 man squad for Thursday is below

FORWARDS

Rob Brouwer, Lindsay
Doug Wooldridge, Lindsay
Tom Dolezel, London
Eric Howard, Brantford
AJ Quattrin, Aurora Barbarians
Brendan Black, Markham Irish
Ryan Surgenor, Bytown Blues
Armin Gurdic, London
Hank McQueen, Balmy Beach
Mike Sheppard, Brampton
Andrew Wilson, Oakville
Pete Milazzo, Toronto Saracens
Myles Dingwall, Bytown Blues
Lucas Rumball, Balmy Beach
Marcello Wainwright, Toronto Saracens

BACKS

Andrew Ferguson, Oakville

Josh Campbell, London
Mitch Richardson, Stoney Creek
Dan Moor, Balmy Beach
Jordan Wilson-Ross, Barrie
Dan West, Oakville
John Sheridan, Markham Irish
Derek Daypuck, London
Kainoa Lloyd, Mississauga
Rich Lebel, Waterloo County

Photo: Connie Hatfield

As we've seems over the last few days there is nothing that brings more elation and relief to an athlete than knowing that they've made the Olympics. For most athletes it is the pinnacle of their sport. They work for years to put themselves in a position to make it where only a few go and finally achieving that must be spectacular. At the same time, missing out on the Olympics must be heartbreaking beyond relief. The players that missed out also put in years of hard work and sacrificed a lot in their lives for a chance to represent their country but didn't see the reward.

It's the players that missed out for the Men's and Women's Eagles that we want to talk about for a moment. These players aren't going to get the glory over the next month or so but they deserve credit for pushing those that made the final 12 to be the best 12 possible to take to the Olympics. If the U.S. win a medal then they will only have the people that pushed them to thank.

Take the jump to read more.
One of the biggest reasons the Eagles have seems success on the Men's and Women's Sevens Series over the last couple of years is because they have built up depth. Yes, each team has taken a core group of players but they have also used a lot of other players. The Men's team used 21 players on the Series this year. Players like Martin Iosefo, Thretton Palamo, Nate Augspurger, Will Holder, Kevin Swiryn, Brett Thompson, Peter Tiberio, Mati Leuta, Pat Blair, Seth Halliman, and Ben Leatigaga were key contributors this year but are going to miss out. On the Women's side of things there isn't room for the likes of Ashley Perry, Meya Bizer, Kate Zackary, and Nicole Heavirland. For some of those players they are young enough to have another chance in 2020 but for others it's the end of the road.

The lack of job security is a great incentive for players to get better. The competition that Mike Friday and Richie Walker has brought into camp has only made each team better. But it's not just the teams in Rio that are going to get better. The fact that there are now at least a dozen players on the Men's and Women's team is going to help the Eagles 15s teams as well. For example, Mike Te'o may not have played 7s this year but there is no question being in residency made him a better player that has now made an impact on the 15s team. The same goes for Will Holder, Peter Tiberio, and Steve Tomasin. The Women Eagles have the World Cup coming up next year and not only are the main 7s players going to be key contributors but also players that didn't make the squad in Rio.

The trickle down impact of the Eagles 7s and the drive to Rio and subsequent Olympics is only going to make rugby in the U.S. better down the years. The coaching staffs absolutely deserve praise but it's the players, those that both made it Rio and those that pushed them, that deserve credit. So when we're watching the U.S. push for a medal remember those that helped them get there.

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!

Our partners Grubber are offering $10 off their Tradition shirt with the code: TRADITION

National Teams/PRO Rugby:

The Eagles vs. Romania date in November is set but it looks like the team will be looking for a third opponent.

Only 24 total players are going to play for the Eagles in Rio but it's the players that didn't make it that deserve a specific mention.

Nate Ebner went on ESPN to discuss the Olympics while Jessica Javelet was on the local news doing the same.

Martin Pengelly talked with Perry Baker in an excellent article. Meanwhile, Alev Kelter has another profile as does Andrew Durutalo.

The latest Red, White, and Black Eye podcast is out talking Eagles 7s and more. Additionally, Pat Clifton says that the selections are to go for gold.

Take the jump to read more.

Club/College:

Lindenwood is facing a post-season ban if their appeal to an independent panel is not successful.

Alex Goff reports that BYU will apparently leave the Varsity Cup. He also looks at some of the College All-Americans.

The coach of Air Force has a recap of his team's season while Andre Snyman recaps the Raptors 7s year so far.

Jackie Finlan checks in with the Pacific North and the Austin Valkyries.

World:

Great Britain has confirmed their Olympic team while Bryan Habana is all class in his exclusion.

Michael Cheika isn't terribly concerned what the people in New Zealand think of his team.

Planet Rugby has their latest edition of Loose Pass.

Quade Cooper has signed a new deal with the ARU.

Press Release

SEATTLE, WA--(July 21, 2016) - As rugby is thrust into the Olympic spotlight this summer in Rio when it returns to the games for the first time since 1924, Atavus, a Seattle-based sports education and technology company, is throwing its full support behind the U.S. Women's and Men's Olympic Rugby teams. Two Atavus high performance coaches are leading the women's team, Atavus Athlete Ryan Carlyle has made the women's Rio roster and Atavus is engaging with local communities through regional Olympic rugby watch parties across the country.

"We're extremely proud to support Team USA through our coaches, player development opportunities that enable athletes to reach their highest potential and simply growing the game across the country," said Ross Young, Executive Chairman at Atavus. "We are fully committed to supporting America's teams in Rio and showcasing the nation's fastest growing team sport to new athletes, parents and families."

Take the jump to read more.
As USA Rugby recently named the rosters for Rio, two members of the Atavus coaching staff will lead the USA Women's Rugby Team at the Rio 2016 Summer Olympics next month. Head Coach Richie Walker will partner with former national team player and Team Leader Emilie Bydwell as they guide the Eagles against other top teams in the world August 6-8 at Rio's Deodoro Stadium.

"It has been a great journey so far with a group of dedicated athletes who have been putting in the hard work needed thus far to get selected and have their Olympic dreams come true," said Richie Walker, USA Women's Head Coach and Atavus Rugby Coach. "Emilie Bydwell has put in a lot of work to help us best prepare for this Olympic journey and her value to the team is exceptional as she helps on so many different levels. We will go out on the field and give everything we have and make our nation proud. We would like to thank everyone for all of their support."

In addition to Walker and Bydwell's influence on the Olympic team, Atavus Athlete Ryan Carlyle has been selected to compete with the USA Women in Rio. After competing in the 2013 Rugby World Cup, Ryan moved from San Diego to Seattle and began training at the Atavus Academy, putting her on a path towards the physical and mental development needed to make the Rio team.

"I spent a privileged two years working with Ryan at the Academy," said Atavus High Performance Director Chris Tombs. "Through those years, through making strides physically, her confidence and purposeful drive increased and it's incredible to see her achieve her goal."

"The goal of our Atavus Academies is to provide athletes with a daily training environment that prepares them for international competition, so we are very proud to have Ryan come from our program and excited about developing the next generation of Olympians," said Shawn Pittman, Atavus Academy Program Manager.

In support of Team USA, Atavus will also host Olympic rugby watch parties around the country. Specific dates and locations of events in all five Atavus regions including the Pacific Northwest, Southwest, Southeast, Northeast and Midwest will be released soon. These free events will include fun skill drills for young athletes, food and refreshments and live viewing of the Olympic rugby tournament. For more details on the watch parties follow Atavus Rugby on Twitter (@AtavusRugby).

About Atavus

Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Atavus is relentlessly driven to breed character, develop skills and champion Rugby and Football in the USA and beyond. Atavus Rugby builds and executes sustained, progression-based programming that provides coaching inclusive of any age, skill set or gender. Programs includes the year-round Atavus Academy, the USA Rugby Academy Powered by Atavus, customizable "Powered By Atavus" consulting services, and international programs with key partners including the worldwide HSBC Rugby Festivals.

Building on a foundation of rugby, Atavus Football was launched in 2015 to provide modern, impactful solution for coaches from NFL, collegiate, high school, and junior football programs to improve the efficiency and safety of the tackle. The company's proprietary Atavus Tackle System ™ provides coaches with year-round professional services, data, intelligence and proven on-field coaching solutions that lead to more confident and effective tacklers, while improving safety of the athletes. For more information on Atavus, including both Rugby and Football programming visit Atavus.com.

Yesterday Alex Goff of the Goff Rugby Report shared an excellent piece noting that BYU is likely not going to be playing in the Varsity Cup next year. Apparently some teams in the Varsity Cup were in disagreement over eligibility citing BYU playing Nic Purcell who play in the NFL before playing for the Cougars. We're going to put that discussion aside for now to talk about a different issue--where is BYU going to play next year?

If BYU aren't going to be in the Varsity Cup what are their options. DI-AA is completely out of the question as they are far too good. DI-A is also very unlikely. Although BYU would have a natural home in the West Conference it was questions of eligibility that helped drive BYU to form the Varsity Cup in the first place. So if they aren't going to play in DI-AA, DI-A, or the Varsity Cup what are their options?

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The way we look at it BYU has three options. They can go with an independent schedule, they can form a new competition, or they can join a men's club competition. The independent schedule might be the most likely. BYU pretty much set their own schedule as it is with top games against St. Mary's and other Western teams always on the docket. They consistently play one of the toughest schedule in America and if they have a challenge game against Cal they can call that their national championship.

The second option is forming a new competition. It's a gross simplification of all the factors but that is essentially what was done with the Varsity Cup when BYU had disagreement over U.S.A. Rugby's eligibility rules (Just a note, the question is over years of eligibility, not the use of foreign players. Many members of the LDS Church serve two years mission, which now often start at age 18 (it used to be 19) and it was felt that these players were discriminated against under the new rules.) The major problem is getting other teams to go with them. Cal may be up for it again but then who else do you invite? Central Washington? At what point does it become something marketable like the Varsity Cup was becoming.

Another option could be to join a men's club competition. DI is not really an option given rules but the PRP would be a natural fit. The PRP, outside of PRO Rugby, is the deepest men's competition in the U.S. and BYU would instantly come in and be competitive. It would also give BYU twelve meaningful matches and if the PRP switches to a mixed season in the fall and the spring then it should leave enough time for BYU to play their traditional opponents. BYU joining the PRP would also be a boon for the league. The Cougars have a great facility and a solid broadcast. They run like a professional team. They could come in and strengthen the league while at the same time putting them in a strong rugby market.

There is precedence for something like this at BYU. Their men's soccer team is in the same category of club sports as the rugby team and they have been playing in the PDL, a club U-23 soccer competition, for many years with the school administration's blessing. There is no reason to think why they wouldn't do the same for the rugby team.

What BYU does is going to be interesting to watch. At this point who knows? Maybe they will come to a solution and play in the Varsity Cup next year. Whatever they decide the Cougars are still going to be one of the top college teams in the country and will always be in the discussion for a national championship.

Nate Ebner was on the Dan Patrick show yesterday to talk about playing in the Olympics.

Atavus is set to have strong representation down in Rio while the local player has more on Bui Baravilala.

Highlights of the Denver win over Sacramento are up.

Club/College:

With BYU apparently out of the Varsity Cup where will they play? We think the PRP might be a good fit.

Take the jump to read more.

Clarence Picard and Tui Osborne have been made full-time coaches at St. Bonaventure.

Jackie Finlan previews the Rock Hard 7s and who might qualify out of the Midwest.

World:

Most of the All Blacks 7s have committed to returning to the team after the Olympics.

England are making moves to award professional contracts to women for the first time.

Georgia's Merab Kvirikashvili and his wife are in serious condition after a car accident.

It's a relatively light but intensive weekend for rugby on television. The Super Rugby finals will be available on ESPN3 while the penultimate weekend of PRO Rugby will also have a pair of matches.

If you know of an event or a tournament that is not on our list, please share it with us at thisisamericanrugby@gmail.com.

Saturday:

Sharks vs. Hurricanes, 3:35 a.m. et/12:35 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
Crusaders vs. Lions, 10:30 a.m. et/7:30 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
Chiefs vs. Stormers, 1:00 p.m. et/10:00 a.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
Lions vs. Jaguares, 5:40 p.m. et/2:40 p.m. pt (live on ESPN3/WatchESPN)
San Diego vs. Sacramento, 10:30 p.m. et/7:30 p.m. pt (live on prorugby.org)

Sunday:

Denver vs. San Francisco, 6:00 p.m. et/3:00 p.m. pt (live on prorugby.org)

Another PRO12 To The U.S. Report Surfaces

San Francisco Active In Win Over San Diego.

Eagles Abroad: Weekend Review

Video Highlights: San Francisco Over San Diego

Opening Kick

Get #OlympicFever & Save On Grubber's Tradition Shirt

Denver Thumps Sacramento, Earns Another Bonus Point Victory

Club 7s Nationals Eastern Qualifiers Update

Club 7s Nationals Western Qualifiers Update

Opening Kick

U.S. vs. Romania Date Confirmed, Third Test Up In The Air

Lindenwood Facing Post-Season Ban

Ontario Ready To Face The Wolfpack

In Praise Of Those That Didn't Make It To Rio

Opening Kick

Atavus Represented In Rio

Video Highlights: Denver vs. Sacramento

PRP Could Be A Natural Fit For BYU

Opening Kick

Weekend Television Listings