This Is American Rugby

It's time once again to check in on the latest PRO Rugby standings, scoring leaders, attendance, and name our player of the week.

Player of the Week: Referees

We're going to go with another unconventional choice for our player of the week as we felt it was time to give the referees their just due. Although there have been some poor and incorrect decisions by far the vast majority of the opinions rendered by the referees have been spot on. Again, it hasn't been perfect but as the season has progressed they have been able to manage the pace of games well and they have been able to build up a rapport with players and coaches. That part can't be understated. As the league continues to progress and there referees and players become more familiar with each other you are going to see the level of officiating only improve.

We've talked a lot about how having 12 matches at a very high level is going to help out players and coaches but the same goes for referees as well. They need game time just as much as players need game time. Having them not only be able to work at least a dozen games in some capacity in addition to various college matches and club matches has only made them better. Being a referee is difficult and this group deserves special praise for what they have been able to do this season.

Take the jump to read more.

Standings

Things have pretty much held serve over the weekend with Ohio and Denver still at the top. That said, it's very notable that with Denver's win over Sacramento they are now just one point behind Ohio with a match in hand. That means that regardless of what happens against San Francisco this weekend they are going to go into the final match of the season with a chance at winning the championship. If they beat San Francisco, something easier said than done at this point, and take the maximum points away they will have a four point edge meaning that Ohio will have to win. Denver can also lose but gain two bonus points and still be crowned champions.

At the bottom of the table it's looking more and more likely that Sacramento will finish at the bottom of the table but they could change things with a win over slumping San Diego and then a win over San Francisco the following weekend.

Defensively both Ohio and Denver are miles ahead over everyone else. Offensively Ohio are still number one but thanks to a couple of strong performances Denver are catching up with them. Back on the defensive end San Diego are beginning to struggle.

Team	Record (W-L-D)	PF	PA	PD	BP	Points
Ohio	8-3-0	444	248	+196	10	42
Denver	9-1-0	347	217	+130	5	41
San Diego	4-7-0	308	378	-70	8	24
San Francisco	3-7-0	278	389	-111	5	17
Sacramento	2-8-0	225	370	-145	3	11

Attendance

Once again we need to share the disclaimer that you should take these numbers as purely our guess. We are almost certainly wrong. That said, the league average sits around 1650 at the moment. Denver, one of the higher draws finished with just under 2000 fans per match, very similar to what San Diego finished with. The league still has a big match remaining in Ohio and their most well attended team in Sacramento left with two matches. San Francisco continues to struggle at the gate.

	Game 1	2	3	4	5	6	Average
Denver	2300	2346	2000	1750	1500	1750	1941
Ohio	2000	1500	1250	1250	750		1350
Sacramento	3400	2000	2000	1500			2225
San Diego	2500	2000	2000	2000	1500	1500	1916
San Francisco	1700	700	700	700	700		900
						League Avg:	1666

Scoring Leaders

Despite not playing over the weekend Kurt Morath has kept his lead at the top of the scoring charts. However, he is now being closely followed by Volney Rouse who picked up a lot of points over the weekend. Rouse is now just seven points behind Morath. Will Magie is also putting up the numbers. Spike Davis remains the first non-kicker on the overall list.

Scoring Leaders	Total
Kurt Morath (San Diego)	117
Volney Rouse (San Francisco)	110
Will Magie (Denver)	95
Mirco Bergamasco (Sacramento)	82
Shaun Davies (Ohio)	76
Spike Davis (Ohio)	70
Sebastian Kalm (Ohio)	50

Try Scorers	Total
Spike Davis	14
Sebastian Kalm	10
Zach Fenoglio	7
David Tameilau	7
Filippo Ferrarini	6
Orene Ai’i	5
Max De Achaval	5
Alex Elkins	5
Hanco Germishuys	5
Dylan Fawsitt	4
Chad London	4
Jamie Mackintosh	4
Mike Te’o	4
Dom Waldouck	4
Pedrie Wannenburg	4
Jacob Finau	3
Cecil Garber	3
Mike Garrity	3
Riekert Hattingh	3
Langilangi Haupeakui	3
Pila Iongi	3
Ollie Kilifi	3
Ben Leatigaga	3
Phil Mackenzie	3
Volney Rouse	3
Kyle Sumsion	3
Timana Tahu	3
Mason Baum	2
Tom Bliss	2
Logan Collins	2
Pierce Dargan	2
JP Eloff	2
Devereaux Ferris	2
Michael Haley	2
Ahmed Harajly	2
Matt Hughston	2
Martin Knoetze	2
Kalei Konrad	2
Niku Kruger	2
Ata Malifa	2
Jack O’Hara	2
Zach Pangelinan	2
Charlie Purdon	2
Tim Stanfill	2
Christian Wiessing	2
Michael Al-Jiboori	1
Kyle Baillie	1
Ray Barkwill	1
Nick Blevins	1
Garrett Brewer	1
Derrick Broussard	1
Nikola Bursic	1
Hubert Buydens	1
Dustin Croy	1
Peter Dahl	1
Cam Falcon	1
Sam Finau	1
Bill Fukofuka	1
Alec Gletzer	1
Pono Haitsuka	1
Alex Hodgkinson	1
Taylor Howden	1
Cody Jerabek	1
Epi Kalemani	1
Toke Kefu	1
Ryan Koewler	1
Jeremy Lenaerts	1
Peter Malcolm	1
Lynton Mare	1
Ryan Matyas	1
Robert Meeson	1
Shane Moore	1
Jope Motokana	1
Mils Muliaina	1
Taku Ngwenya	1
Nemia Qoro	1
John Quill	1
Michael Reid	1
Casey Rock	1
Chris Saint	1
Siupeli Sakalia	1
Andrew Suniula	1
Roland Suniula	1
Lagakali Tavake	1
Joe Taufete’e	1
Sione Tuihalamaka	1
Tai Tuisamoa	1
Nick Wallace	1
Luke White	1

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The regular season portion of the Super Rugby season is over and that means that only two teams with Americans or U.S.-eligible players on them are still alive. Of those two teams only Toni Pulu with the Chiefs could see time as he's on the bench. Tony Lamborn is not in the line-up for the Hurricanes. The only other American active in a major competition is Chris Chapman who is playing in the Shute Shield playoffs with Sydney University.

Australia:

Super Rugby

Marcel Brache and the Western Force have finished their season.

James Hilterbrand and the Waratahs have finished their season. He mainly plays with Manly in the Shute Shield.

Shute Shield

Chris Chapman and Sydney University play Eastwood on Saturday.

James Hilterbrand and Manly have finished their season.

Dewar Shield

James King and Moorabbin play Melbourne University on Saturday.

Take the jump to read more.

New Zealand:

Super Rugby

Toni Pulu is on the bench for the Chiefs as they play the Stormers on Saturday.

Tony Lamborn is not in the line-up for the Hurricanes as they play the Sharks 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 and the Sunwolves have finished their season. Durutalo is going to the Olympics with the Eagles.

Other:

BC Premier League

Graham Harriman and James Bay have finished their season.

Other

Alex Aronson is playing and training in the Philippines.

We have some movement again in our PRO Rugby Power Rankings. Ohio and Denver stay one and two but thanks to another great performance San Francisco are up to number three.

1. Ohio (8-3-0, 42 points; LW: 1, bye): The Aviators continue to have some time off before their big showdown with Denver next week. They will be looking on with close interest this week to see if they are going to go into the finale with an advantage or a hill to climb. They will be hoping that San Francisco can come away with the win. Additionally, the Aviators need to stay vigilant to make sure they stay sharp and ready for the Stampede. Up next: Bye

2. Denver (9-1-0, 41 points; LW: 2; beat Sacramento 59-13): We nearly put the Stampede into our number one spot after yet another big win. The Stampede have to be happy that their offense is clicking at the right time. Try scoring has been a problem for them this year but not the last few years. Couple that with a stingy defense and Denver are clicking. Up next: San Francisco

Take the jump to read more.
3. San Francisco (3-7-0, 17 points; LW: 4; beat San Diego 50-26): The Rush are coming on strong at the end of the season. This was the team we expected to see early on but struggled instead. They are building for next year and have some good pieces. Volney Rouse is playing some fantastic rugby and has to be an MVP candidate. San Francisco can pull off their biggest upset of the year if they beat Denver. Up next: Denver

4. Sacramento (2-8-0, 11 points; LW: 3; lost to Denver 59-13): Despite the eventual scoreline the Express has some good moments during their match against Denver, particularly in the first half. However, they fell apart in the second half which is pretty much the story of their season. More lessons learned ahead of next year. Up next: San Diego

5. San Diego (4-7-0, 24 points; LW: 5; lost to San Francisco 5-26): The Breakers did pick up a bonus point but they struggled once again, especially on the defensive end. That's been the most troubling aspect for the team this year. Their rhythm was disrupted with international absences and injuries earlier in the year but they should have been better. Now they have one last match to finish it out. Up next: Sacramento

Press Release

Salt Lake City, UT—Rugby Utah’s state-based elite representative 7s team, the National Development Academy (NDA), supported by GoPlay Sports Tours, will play in the final Frontier Region 7s Qualifier, the Pioneer 7s Tournament, hosted this weekend in Salt Lake City, UT at the SLC Regional Athletic Complex.

With the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Olympics set to host rugby for the first time since 1924 Pioneer 7s organizers are excited to showcase Utah’s rugby community and the newest Olympic sport in such a premier local event.

“Rugby is big in Utah,” said Pioneer 7s Tournament Director Vea Ofa, “And this tournament gives our local clubs the chance to play against the best. And with the Olympics having rugby again this tournament gives our community a sneak-peek on what makes rugby so exciting.”

Take the jump to read more.

With Provo native Make Unufe making the 12-man USA Olympic Rugby team and former University of Utah football and rugby standout Thretton Palamo making the training squad tournaments like the Pioneer 7s are key to providing the opportunities for Utah’s rugby community.

“Our rugby community can’t develop players like Maka or Thretton without top-end competition in Utah,” said Rugby Utah executive director Kimball Kjar, “So we’re grateful for people like Vea and the many others who see the vision that Rugby Utah shares with them to develop strong and well-managed events like the Pioneer 7s that provide those opportunities for players to compete and develop. Who knows, maybe we’ll see some future Olympians on the pitch this weekend.”

With the Rugby Utah NDA squad having already qualified for USA Rugby National Club 7s Championships August 13-15th in Denver, CO by winning the Denver 7s and Heartland 7s tournaments the team will look to hold serve in the final qualifier played on its home turf.

“We’re fortunate to have punched our ticket to nationals already,” said NDA head coach Ben Nicholls, “But we still have a lot to play for at home and as a team we need more opportunities to develop and improve before nationals and even RugbyTown 7s later in August.”

The Pioneer 7s Tournament will have two brackets playing in parallel with the Qualifier and Open Divisions.

The top four teams in the Frontier Region will make a final push before nationals in the Qualifier Division with Rugby Utah, the Glendale Raptors, the Denver Barbarians and the Kansas City Blues.

Top local teams will play in the Open Division headlined by Humless 7s, Mana, Liberty, Salt Lake Gladiators, Salt Lake Spartans, West Valley Lions, Park City Haggis and So. Utah All Stars. National clubs like the Hawaii Lions, EPA Razorbacks and Team Royal are also bringing their talent to Utah in an effort to win the $5,000 cash prize for the Open Division.

The Pioneer 7s Tournament kicks off with a youth clinic Friday morning with registration beginning at 7am MT, July 22nd. Educational workshops for the young players, speed clinics and rugby skills development will carry from 8.30am until a 12pm lunch, which is sponsored by All Poly Sports.

The Pioneer 7s Tournament Open Division pool matches will kick off at 1pm MT following the conclusion of the Youth Rugby Clinic.

Qualifier and Open Divisions will round out play Saturday, July 23rd.

For more details on the Rugby Utah NDA and for a complete schedule for the Pioneer 7s Tournament please visit www.RugbyUtah.com.

For live scoring updates please follow Rugby Utah on Facebook and Twitter.

The rosters for this weekend's PRO Rugby matches are in. For San Diego it's their last game of the season and there aren't too many changes. Kurt Morath comes back from injury and will be in the starting line-up while Eagles 7s player Pat Blair could make his debut for the team off the bench. Expect to see a lot more Eagles 7s players on PRO Rugby rosters next year without the Olympics looming.

Their opponents for Saturday, Sacramento, have made a lot more changes. Val Lee-Lo is back in the starting line-up after coming back from injury. Eric Fry will start once again as does Cam Falcon which means Ray Barkwill and Ollie Kilifi are on the bench. The other changes come in the backs. Mirco Bergamasco will start at fly-half once again while Harry Bennett moves to fullback. That's an interesting change but one that has been done earlier in the season. Garrett Brewer is back on the wing while Jope Motokana moves to center.

Take the jump to read more.

Both Denver and San Francisco haven't made a lot of changes to their rosters. The big news for San Francisco is that Mils Muliaina could return from injury and will be in the starting line-up at fullback. If he's not able to go then Jake Anderson will start in his place otherwise Anderson will be on the bench. Denver have shuffled somethings around in their backs. With Max De Achaval not available Ata Malifa will be the fullback and Timana Tahu will slide into the centers.

San Diego

Forwards: Mason Pedersen, Joe Taufete'e, Jake Ilnicki, Nikola Bursic, Tai Tuisamoa, Derek Broussard, Cecil Garber, Chris Turori

Backs: Charlie Purdon, Kurt Morath, Taku Ngwenya, Andrew Suniula, Ryan Matyas, Phil Mackenzie, Mike Te'o

Bench: Mikey Sosene-Feagai, Epi Kalemani, Kakalea Pule, Pat Blair, Bruce Thomas, Zach Pangelinan, Kalei Konrad, Pono Haitsuka

Sacramento

Forwards: Eric Fry, Cam Falcon, Val Lee-Lo, Robert Meeson, Matt Doubek, Kali Tavake, John Quill, Kyle Sumsion

Backs: Chris Saint, Mirco Bergamasco, Garrett Brewer, Nemai Qoro, Jope Motokana, Cody Jerabek, Harry Bennett

Bench: Ray Barkwill, Ollie Kilifi, Estephan Tuimasaga, Ryan Koewler, Sione Latu, Donald Dwyer, Jojo Tikoisuva, Shane Moore

Denver

Forwards: Nick Wallace, Zach Fenoglio, Ben Tarr, Logan Collins, Luke White, Hanco Germishuys, Peter Dahl, Pedrie Wannenberg

Backs: Mose Timoteo, Will Magie, Martin Knoetze, Timana Tahu, Chad London, Mike Garrity, Ata Malifa

Bench: Chris Baumann, Jake Turnbull, Brodie Orth, Christian Wiessing, Casey Rock, Bobby Impson, Kyle Hitt, John Godinet

San Francisco

Forwards: Codi Jones, Jay Finau, Pat Latu, Nick Grass, Jeremy Lenaerts, Brendan Daly, Sam Finau, Bil Fukofuka

Backs: Devereaux Ferris, Volney Rouse, Pila Iongi, Orene Ai'i, Nick Blevins, Michael Haley, Mils Muliaina/Jake Anderson (depending on medical clearance)

Bench: Mone Laulaupeaalu, Neill Barrett, Fancy Namulauulu, Isaac Helu, Siupeli Sakalia, Jake Anderson or TBD, Junior Helu, Michael Reid

Press Release

ST. BONAVENTURE, N.Y., July 21, 2016 — Clarence Picard and Andrew Tui Osborne have been named full-time coaches of men’s and women’s rugby at St. Bonaventure University, elevating the stature of the programs to take advantage of the burgeoning popularity of the sport in the United States.

Osborne, who won two national titles as coach of Life University, has worked since November as an assistant to Picard, the longtime coach of SBU’s men’s program and director of the Annual Fund at the university. Picard will continue to serve as Annual Fund director until a replacement is named.

They will share responsibilities for coaching both the men and women, with assistance from Dr. Giles Bootheway, who coached the women last season. The men play both 15-man rugby in the fall and seven-man in the spring; the women play 15s in the fall.

Take the jump to read more.
The men will continue to play in Rugby East, which is in Division 1A of USA Rugby, the highest level in the nation. The women will compete again in NSCRO, the National Small College Rugby Organization, with the possibility of eventually moving to a higher level of competition.

Increasing university enrollment was the primary reason for upgrading the program.

“Clarence has done a tremendous job of building a nationally respected program, especially considering the great work he was also doing in Advancement,” said Rick Trietley, vice president for Student Affairs. “The addition of Tui last fall really gave us a unique opportunity to elevate both programs, and with their ability now as full-time coaches to spend more time on recruiting, we’re confident we can significantly grow both rosters.”

The coaches’ salaries and program expenses are being partially funded by donations from rugby alumni.

“I can’t say enough about the support we’ve always received from our alumni and their willingness to improve our program,” said Picard, who’s coached the Bonnies since 2006 and led their rise to Division 1A status in 2014. “We have every intention to make them and the university proud and take these programs to new heights.”

To improve retention, academic support to the men will be offered through structured study halls with oversight from coaches and team leaders. All freshmen and returning students with a GPA under a 3.0 will be on the early-alert survey.

As part of the enhanced recognition, men’s rugby will be listed on GoBonnies.com. (Rugby is not an NCAA sport, but overseen by USA Rugby.)

However, the rugby teams will continue to report to Rob DeFazio, director of the Center for Activities, Recreation and Leadership, the office that will offer administrative support to the programs.

The Bonnies men won five state rugby titles in 15s while a member of the Division II New York State Rugby Conference (1993, 1998, 2004, 2007 and 2008); reached the national 1AA quarterfinals in 15s in spring 2013; and finished the 2016 spring sevens season ranked 10th in the nation in Division 1A on the strength of four tournament victories.

The SBU women reached the final four of the NSCRO national tournament in 2011, and won the state title in 2014, finishing the season ranked 5th in the nation.
______________

About the University: The nation’s first Franciscan university, we believe in the goodness of every person and in the ability of every person to do extraordinary things. St. Bonaventure University cultivates graduates who are confident and creative communicators, collaborative leaders and team members, and innovative problem solvers who are respectful of themselves, others, and the diverse world around them. Named the #5 best college value in the North by U.S. News and World Report, we are establishing pathways to internships, graduate schools and careers in the context of our renowned liberal arts tradition. Our students are becoming extraordinary.

An improving Sacramento team will face a struggling San Diego team tonight at Bonney Field in what will be the final match of the season for San Diego. Both Sacramento and San Diego couldn't have had more opposite seasons. Despite winning their first match Sacramento struggled losing five straight games before a big June break. That break rejuvenated the team and while they didn't go on a winning streak they did look extremely approved and did pick up some wins along the way.

On the flip side, San Diego enjoyed a very strong start to the season and at one point had a chance to upset Denver and claim first place in the standings. However, the June Internationals and injuries took a major toll on the team as they have proceeded to those their last six. It's a surprise turn for a team that had one of the most stacked rosters in the league. Defense has been a major problems in recent weeks having given up big point totals. Now with only one match left in their season they will want to go out with a victory.

Take the jump to read more.No matter what the outcome tonight neither team has a shot at winning the title. However, that doesn't mean there isn't something to play for. San Diego currently sit third in the table and if they want to avoid being potentially caught by San Francisco they are going to need to pick up some points. Sacramento are currently holding the wooden spoon and if they want to avoid that designation they will at least need to pick up a couple of points in order to catch San Francisco next week.

As mentioned, the teams are heading in opposite directions in many ways. Sacramento has tightened up their defense despite a big loss to Denver last week (they were in it in the first half) while San Diego has become a leaky ship. Additionally, the Sacramento offense has come alive. That could be tested this weekend though as they have made a number of changes, including putting Mirco Bergamasco at fly-half with Harry Bennett at fullback. If they can get the ball out to their backs and use the power in the back-row then they should still be able to put up points.

San Diego can score as well and that hasn't really trailed off. Having Kurt Morath back in the starting line-up is only going to help. Kalei Konrad is a good kicker but Morath provides a bit of extra confidence to pick up points from anywhere past half field. If San Diego can put up points early it might change the game but if Sacramento can go on a try scoring spree similar to what they've done in the last several weeks this is their match to lose.

The match is set for 10:30 p.m. et/7:30 p.m. pt and will be streamed on prorguby.org.

San Diego

Forwards: Mason Pedersen, Joe Taufete'e, Jake Ilnicki, Nikola Bursic, Tai Tuisamoa, Derek Broussard, Cecil Garber, Chris Turori

Backs: Charlie Purdon, Kurt Morath, Taku Ngwenya, Andrew Suniula, Ryan Matyas, Phil Mackenzie, Mike Te'o

Bench: Mikey Sosene-Feagai, Epi Kalemani, Kakalea Pule, Pat Blair, Bruce Thomas, Zach Pangelinan, Kalei Konrad, Pono Haitsuka

Sacramento

Forwards: Eric Fry, Cam Falcon, Val Lee-Lo, Robert Meeson, Matt Doubek, Kali Tavake, John Quill, Kyle Sumsion

Backs: Chris Saint, Mirco Bergamasco, Garrett Brewer, Nemai Qoro, Jope Motokana, Cody Jerabek, Harry Bennett

Bench: Ray Barkwill, Ollie Kilifi, Estephan Tuimasaga, Ryan Koewler, Sione Latu, Donald Dwyer, Jojo Tikoisuva, Shane Moore

With their win last week Denver put themselves in a position to capture the inaugural PRO Rugby title with a win next week against Ohio. As things stand Denver currently sit one point behind Ohio on 41 points despite winning two more matches. That is because Ohio has had the best offense all season and has picked up 10 bonus points from 11 matches. So even though Denver won't lose their shot at a title if they fail to pick up a result against San Francisco today there is a lot to play for. A bonus point win would put them four ahead of Ohio meaning that just two points from their match next week would seal the crown.

Getting past San Francisco is much easier said than done. The Rush have been one of the best teams over the second half of the season as players gain fitness and rise to the level of pro play. The potential return of Mils Muliaina this week, as well as Jake Anderson, is going to be a major boost. Offensively San Francisco have been able to get things ramped up over the past few weeks thanks in no small part to the play of Volney Rouse.

Take the jump to read more.
There are some great head to head match-ups set for today. The centers look particularly interesting. Orene Ai'i and Nick Blevins are playing very well at the moment but as are Timana Tahu and Chad London for Denver. Tahu moves into the centers after spending time on the wing last week in his most productive performance. Ai'i and Blevins bring a mix of finesse and power with Ai'i in particular running things well from a playmaking 12 position.

Another strong match-up will be at fly-half. Will Magie may be the in-form fly-half at the moment but the same could be said of Rouse. Both have excellent kicking abilities and if the match devolves into penalties both will like their chances of picking up points. There is also another personal battle between the two as they jockey for position to try and surpass Kurt Morath in the overall scoring charts.

Where Denver arguably has a big advantage is in the forwards. The Denver forward pack, in particular the front-row of Nick Wallace, Zach Fenoglio, and Ben Tarr is fantastic. Throw in Chris Baumann and Jake Turnbull on the bench and you have group that can cause damange. The same goes for their back-row. San Francisco will have a big size advantage on Denver but Denver probably have the better technique at this point.

While Denver are the favorites expect this one to be close. San Francisco are playing well at the moment and will be hungry for more points in an effort to surpass San Diego in the standings. Look for them to come out flying and try to pick up a marquee win. However, at this point, especially with their offense clicking, Denver seem to be in the driver's seat.

The match from Boxer Stadium starts at 6:00 p.m. et/3:00 p.m. pt and will be seen on prorugby.org.

Denver

Forwards: Nick Wallace, Zach Fenoglio, Ben Tarr, Logan Collins, Luke White, Hanco Germishuys, Peter Dahl, Pedrie Wannenberg

Backs: Mose Timoteo, Will Magie, Martin Knoetze, Timana Tahu, Chad London, Mike Garrity, Ata Malifa

Bench: Chris Baumann, Jake Turnbull, Brodie Orth, Christian Wiessing, Casey Rock, Bobby Impson, Kyle Hitt, John Godinet

San Francisco

Forwards: Codi Jones, Jay Finau, Pat Latu, Nick Grass, Jeremy Lenaerts, Brendan Daly, Sam Finau, Bil Fukofuka

Backs: Devereaux Ferris, Volney Rouse, Pila Iongi, Orene Ai'i, Nick Blevins, Michael Haley, Mils Muliaina/Jake Anderson (depending on medical clearance)

Bench: Mone Laulaupeaalu, Neill Barrett, Fancy Namulauulu, Isaac Helu, Siupeli Sakalia, Jake Anderson or TBD, Junior Helu, Michael Reid

Photo: Connie Hatfield

The Sacramento Express put in a late surge to beat San Diego 35-27 in an absolutely thrilling match at Bonney Field on Saturday. The win now puts Sacramento one point behind San Francisco in the race to avoid the Wooden Spoon with the two teams set to square off next week. The loss ends the season for San Diego and see them finish with seven straight defeats. That's a big turnaround for a team that was pushing for the top of the table early in the season.

It was only fitting that the match started for with Kurt Morath penalty for San Diego. He was able to pick up seven more points on the day to add to his league leading total. However, fitting their season San Diego nearly immediately gave up a penalty that Mirco Bergamasco connected on to make it 3-3 with five minutes played. Harry Bennett had a chance to add to that total a few minutes later thanks to Morath kicking the restart out on the full and then a penalty on the Breakers in the scrum but his long attempt went off the post.

The next ten minutes or so were dictated by set plays as each team committed a number of infractions. San Diego did have a nice spell of pressure led by Andrew Suniula nearly claiming a nice chip but Jope Motokana did well to tip it back to himself and relieve the pressure.

Take the jump to read more.

Around the 20th minute mark Sacramento finally began to find their groove and using their forwards worked the ball close to their line. A penalty temporarily bailed San Diego out but the Express were able to earn the ball back and did well to keep possession. After several more phases Val Lee-Lo did well to pick the ball out of the ruck and rumble over for the score. Bergamasco would miss the conversion and Sacramento would led 8-3.

The Express maintained the pressure after the try and when John Quill made a break he would eventually cross over for the second try in just a matter of minutes. This time Bergamasco would hit the conversion and the Express would lead 15-3 at halftime.

With the heat making an impact each team made some subs to start the second half which helped pick up the pace. That lead to a penalty for Sacramento and then a few minutes later a try for San Diego with Mikey Te'o scoring. Showing great hands San Diego did well to keep the ball alive and when they earned a penalty Te'o showed a great heads up play to go quick and score when Sacramento were caught napping. The conversion missed but San Diego were back within ten at 18-8.

Bergamasco would add another penalty to extend the lead to 21-8 but then next fifteen minutes would belong to the Breakers. It began when Suniula was able to break through the defense before finding the supporting Te'o for his second try. The conversion sneaked over and San Diego were within a try. The pressure kept coming and soon they had their third try of the half when the ball was fed out to the wing to Taku Ngwenya for the try. Like that San Diego had the lead back at 22-21. A third try came with about 15 minutes to go when Ryan Matyas was able to slip through the defense. San Diego now lead 27-21 after the conversion missed.

At this point in the match it would have been easy for Sacramento to pack it in and wait until next week. But a credit to their attitude they regrouped for a great final portion of the match. They retook the lead with ten minutes to go. Keeping the ball in hand the ball went out to Garrett Brewer in stride. From there he juked Morath to the ground and was in for the try. It was a great response for the Express while the at the same time disappointing for San Diego who visibly looked let down after giving up the lead. With only one point separating each side both had chances, including a great run from Ryan Koewler. In the end it was Kyle Sumsion going from the back of a ruck to score the match's final try.

For San Diego they will now head into the offseason with a list of questions as to why their season came off the rails. With the large number of internationals on their roster they were expected to do better but that also might have been their downfall. June was brutal for the team with injuries and absences taking the toll. When the internationals did return the rhythm was gone. For Sacramento it was a solid win and indicative of the direction they've been heading over the second part of the season.

Sacramento

Tries: Lee-Lo, Quill, Brewer, Sumsion
Conversions: Bergamasco (3)
Penalties: Bergamasco (3)

San Diego

Tries: Te'o (2), Ngwenya, Matyas
Conversions: Morath (2)
Penalties: Morath

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:

Sacramento picked up a big win over San Diego last weekend while Denver beat San Francisco (report coming).

U.S.A. Rugby has a nice profile of long-time Eagle Kelly Griffin while Jackie Finlan has more on the building of the team.

The Girl's High School All-Americans have started their East regional assembly.

The U.S. Wheelchair Rugby team has named their squad for the upcoming Paralympics.

Take the jump to read more.

Club/College:

Clarence Picard and Tui Osborne have gained new roles at St. Bonaventure.

Alex Solomon has more on the balance between 7s and 15s for clubs.

Alex Goff has more on the college conferences for next year and the schedules for the Chesapeake and Rugby East.

World:

Steve Hansen has extended his deal as head coach of the All Blacks.

Press Release

Salt Lake City, UT—The Pioneer 7s Rugby Tournament finished with two champions as the Glendale Raptors took home the Qualifier Division while Humless 7s notched another Open Division title.

Also notching a victory on the day were the Kansas City Blues who claimed a berth to the USA Rugby Club 7s National Championships.

A full two-days of rugby 7s saw 20 teams compete in their respective divisions while over 100 kids attended a youth clinic on Friday to open the weekend’s events.

The Qualifier Division saw four of the top men’s teams in the Frontier Region face off in the final qualifier of the season before the USA Rugby Club National Championships August 13-15.

Having won the first two Qualifiers, the Denver 7s and the Heartland 7s, Rugby Utah’s state-based elite representative 7s team, the National Development Academy (NDA), supported by GoPlay Sports Tours, was playing to defend its home turf and build towards nationals.

Take the jump to read more.

Colorado neighbor Glendale Raptors had different plans however, beating Kansas City in the final by the score of 34-0.

In a competitive pool of qualifier bracket matches Rugby Utah, Glendale and Kansas City all went 1-2 on the day, with the Denver Barbarians going undefeated.

After pool play the Barbarians would face Glendale in the semifinal only to be upset 26-19. The other semifinal saw Rugby Utah face the Blues with the victory going the way of Kansas City in sudden-death overtime despite Rugby Utah coming from behind late in the match to tie and force the overtime.

“Our guys just couldn’t close today,” said Rugby Utah NDA coach Ben Nicholls, “We learned some hard lessons at home. But better to learn them now and here than at Nationals. Hopefully we’re better for it in the long run.”

Meanwhile, with Glendale upsetting Denver the Raptors cruised to a 34-0 victory over the Blues in the championship.

“I’m very proud of the team,” said former South African Springbok and current Glendale Raptors head coach Andre Snyman, “We had a few new players for the first time out and didn’t know how they’d fit in but they really stood up to the challenge and played well. The way the team played in both playoff games was the best I’ve seen them play this season. And it’s great to see that all of the hard work at training is finally coming together.”

With Rugby Utah’s ticket to nationals already booked the Frontier Region series tie between the Denver Barbarians and the Kansas City Blues was broken with the Blues finishing 2nd at the Pioneer 7s ahead of Denver. As such Kansas City Blues will represent the Frontier Region as the region’s 2ndseed behind Rugby Utah in USA Rugby’s Club 7s Nationals.

In the Pioneer 7s Tournament Open Division, some of Utah’s local clubs featured against national squads traveling from as far as Hawaii.

After pool play and playoff matches, Humless 7s came from behind in the final seconds of the match to beat the Hawaii Lions 24-21 to defend their 2015 Pioneer 7s title.

The Utah Brothers also beat the EPA Razorbacks in the 3rd/4th place match to take home a well-deserved consolation title.

Rugby Utah’s NDA will now turn its attention to the USA Rugby Club 7s National Championships held at Dick’s Sporting Good Park in Denver, CO on August 13-15.

The NDA will finish the summer 7s season at the prestigious RugbyTown 7s held in Glendale, CO August 26-28.

For more details on the Rugby Utah NDA please visit www.RugbyUtah.com or follow on Facebook and Twitter.

PIONEER 7s TOURNAMENT QUALIFIER RESULTS

Pool Matches

· Rugby Utah 19 Kansas City 7
· Denver 26 Glendale 14
· Glendale 21 Rugby Utah 17
· Denver 17 Kansas City 12
· Denver 19 Rugby Utah 12

Semifinals
· Glendale 26 Denver 21
· Kansas City 24 Rugby Utah 19

3rd/4th:
· Denver 38 Rugby Utah 19

Final:
· Glendale 34 Kansas City 0

OPEN DIVISION FINAL RESULTS

1. Humless 7s
2. Hawaii Lions
3. Utah Brothers

Press Release

Harlequins rugby club, one of England’s top professional rugby union teams, has today confirmed that it will travel to San Francisco, California, this week to prepare for the 2016/17 Aviva Premiership season.

Widely recognised across the globe due to its eight affiliates clubs in Dallas, Pretoria, Melbourne, Hobart, Hamilton, Kenya, Kolkata and Abu Dhabi, Harlequins is one of the six oldest rugby clubs in England and will use the tour to San Francisco to kick-off its 150th anniversary season.

Arriving on Saturday 30th July and departing eight days later, the 54 man squad, containing 16 international players, will capitalise on the strategic partnership set up with USA Rugby last year by helping to expand and develop the game within San Francisco and the Bay Area communities.

The Harlequins team will train at the San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club, Treasure Island and the Club would like to invite members of the US media to interview the Harlequins coaches and players from 14:00 Tuesday 1st August and Thursday 4thAugust, before watching an open training session.

Tak the jump to read more.
Capitalising on the rising interest in the sport, Harlequins has arranged a number of events to engage the local community in the sport, its values and benefits, and as opportunities to introduce some of the Club’s unique personalities. Members of the media are welcome to attend all community activities.

Commenting on the tour, Harlequins Academy and Global Development Director, Tony Diprose said: “We are incredibly excited about travelling to San Francisco later this week. This trip provides the squad with the ability to prepare for our 150th season in a completely new environment.

“Most importantly though, it provides Harlequins the platform to expand its name, and the game of rugby, to a captive audience which we hope will grow participation and awareness in sport’s biggest market.”

To confirm your attendance, or for more information on each event below, please contact Callum Sheppard, Harlequins Communications Manager, by emailing callum.sheppard@quins.co.uk or by calling (+44) 7557924466.

Harlequins schedule – San Francisco Tour 2016

Saturday 30th July

Squad arrives in San Francisco

Monday 1st August

16:00-19:00 Community Rugby Session, Rich May Field, East Palo Alto (members of the media welcome)

Tuesday 2nd August

14:00-14:45: Media session at San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club
15:00-16:30: Open training session with vision access
18:30 – 20:30: Women’s Coaching session with SFGG Women’s squad, San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club (members of the media welcome)

Thursday 4th August

14:00-14:45: Media session at San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club
15:00-16:30: Open training session with vision access
18:30-20:00: High School youth coaching session at San Francisco Golden Gate Rugby Club (members of the media welcome)

Sunday 7th August

Harlequins squad depart

Press Release

July 21, 2016 – As the rugby landscape in America continues to grow, more high school players are looking for opportunities to play for a competitive college program. “We recognize the need for high school aged players to connect with college coaches and ultimately choose the right university to attend”, stated Ethan Willis longtime director of Nike Rugby Camps in San Diego. “Subsequently, in 2016, we have brought university coaches into our camp structure to give our campers a glimpse of what it takes to compete at the collegiate level.”

Nike Rugby Camps’ first intensive college showcase camp in San Diego will run from July 31st to August 3rd at the University of San Diego. Joining an already accomplished staff of USA players and coaches including Rob Hoadley, Mikey Teo and Tai Tuisamoa, will be coaches from UCLA, Saint Mary’s, San Diego State, Claremont and other regional universities.

“Bringing in top-level college coaches adds a new dimension to the camp,” said Jason West, senior vice president for Nike Rugby Camps. “Campers with aspirations of competing in the college ranks can gain some real insight into the college game and that has value for many of these young athletes."

Take the jump to read more.

During the course of the four-day camp, athletes will build on core fundamentals and progress to advanced techniques. Newly named USA Rugby strength and conditioning Coach Alex Ross will guide players on nutrition and off field training. Alex’s resume includes a recent stint with the Super Rugby side, the Auckland Blues.

The Nike Camp in San Diego has seen over forty High School All American’s attend camp over the past nine years. Former USA U20 and current San Diego PRO player Kalei Konrad attributes the organization’s ability to increase player skill level to the coaching in live scenarios, “The controlled multiple phase playoff set piece allows camp coaches to break down player deficiencies and then address them right away. Kids are receiving feedback from guys who play for the USA team and professionally. It’s a very unique experience.”

About ELITE Rugby Camps

At ELITE Rugby, we conduct week-long rugby camps. Our camps make a lasting impact on player’s lives. We provide young players the opportunity to work with their role models; members of the USA Rugby Team. Since 2009, we have worked with over 5,000 young players.

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.

The Denver Stampede were already going to have a shot at the title next week against Ohio before their match against San Francisco but the Rush have been rapidly improving to end the season and the Stampede risked losing momentum had they fallen at Boxer Stadium. However, using a late comeback they went on to win 31-24 and now have an advantage heading into the next week. The Rush showed exactly why they have been one of the hottest teams in the last few weeks with arguably their best display of the season. In the end it was the experience of Denver to capitalize on mistakes from San Francisco that was the difference.

Showing their improvement the Rush wasted no time getting on the board just two minutes in. Keeping the ball Jake Anderson was able to make a break who passed with one hand to Nick Blevins who then found Pila Iongi for the try. It was a brilliant start for San Francisco and gave them confidence throughout the match. They nearly doubled that match a few minutes later when Orene Ai'i intercepted a pass but he was caught just short of the line leading to a knock-on.

Take the jump to read more.

Not letting the try get them down Denver came back with sustained pressure of their own. When a clearance kick didn't go far enough down the pitch Timana Tahu was there to make the initial run before passing to Peter Dahl. As he was tackled Dahl put in the perfect pass back to Tahu who dove into the corner for the score. Will Magie would be off on the conversion but Denver were showing their first signs of life. However, San Francisco responded immediately. Off a set play the Rush worked the ball across the pitch where once again Iongi was there to finish in the corner. After a quarter of an hour San Francisco led 12-5.

The play was free flowing throughout the match with neither team afraid to take it to the other. Any opportunity each team had to run they took it. Despite that it was a Denver maul that would grab the next try. After a San Francisco penalty near midfield Denver went for the corner where they then used their line out and maul to push Pedrie Wannenberg over the line. The conversion was good tying the match at 12-12.

The teams continued to trade pressure and it was the fancy running of San Francisco that set them up for their next try. Good runs from Rouse, Ai'i, and others set up Bill Fukofuka in the corner for the score. Particular credit goes to Ai'i who made a great pass under pressure to find Fukofuka. Denver nearly had another fancy try for themselves but Ben Tarr wasn't able to hold on to a pass that would have seen him stroll in. The same could be said of San Francisco who nearly found Iongi with a kick but Mike Garrity was there to grab the ball first. At the half San Francisco led 17-12.

Not resting with the lead San Francisco came out aggressive early and had a drop goal attempt from Ai'i but it missed. Still, their next score was coming. A turnover from Michael Haley led to Rouse using Blevins has a dummy to freeze the defense and go in for the try. Just a couple of minutes in to the half San Francisco were up 24-12 and in control.

Unfortunately it was a combination of San Francisco penalties and clinical finishing from Denver that would see them turn around the result. Down near the try line after another Rush infraction Denver used their forwards to suck in the defense before passing out to Martin Knoetze for the try. That cut the lead to 24-17 with still 30 minutes to play. They then equalized with 15 minutes to play. Off a line out Dahl did well to recognize the gap. He passed out to the supporting Chris Baumann who then offloaded to Mose Timoteo for the try. Most importantly for Denver that try meant that they had picked up a bonus point. That, coupled with their eventual win now gives them an edge heading into next week.

Even though Denver would go on to win with ten minutes left it was anyone's game. San Francisco had a couple of opportunities in which they came close to scoring only to see them denied just short. A draw may have been fitting if not for a piece of brilliance from Timana Tahu. Taking the gap Tahu got through the defense before finding the supporting London for the easy score. Magie would hit the conversion and Denver would hold on to win 31-24.

Denver now have their big showdown with Ohio next week for the inaugural title while San Francisco face rivals Sacramento. Denver have a four point lead in the standings meaning that a draw or two bonus points would be good enough. They in theory could tie but Ohio has a much better point differential.

San Francisco

Tries: Iongi (2), Fukofuka, Rouse
Conversions: Rouse (2)

Denver

Tries: Tahu, Wannenberg, Knoetze, Timoteo, London
Conversions: Magie (3)

Photo: Norma Salinas

Press Release

Austin, TX (July 25, 2016). – The Red River Rugby Conference (RRRC) concluded its final 2016 National 7s qualifier play this past weekend. The Austin Huns were deemed conference champions after securing conference points through the 3-tournament series. This championship qualifies the Austin Huns for the USA Rugby National Championships in Denver August 13-14, 2016 and it is the first time the club has qualified in its 44-year history.

The Austin Huns and Little Rock Stormers began the tournament tied for the number one seed in the RRRC, with the Dallas Reds not trailing far behind. The Huns and Stormers fought to secure the conference championship, while the Reds battled for a tournament win and a national tournament berth possibility with a finals win.

The Austin Huns started the final series in typical fashion, dominating 'Pool A' through unselfish play, attaining the restart, and controlling the breakdowns. Huns opened the series against HARC winning 31-7, then took their efforts into the second match shutting out Ft. Hood Phantoms 33-0. The final pool match was an early title preview as the Austin Huns met the Dallas Reds, emerging victorious with a 19-12 final score.

Take the jump to read more.
Austin Huns won the pool and moved into the cup semi-finals which secured them a spot in the national tournament. Huns achieved their long-term goal. They looked to capture the first conference title in Austin Huns History. In their semi-final matchup, Austin Huns met a physical and highly skilled Lone Star. The Huns remained true to their team game plan and dynamics while keeping Lone Star scoreless and winning 31-0.

While the Austin Huns battled to make the finals, the Little Rock Stormers and Dallas Reds fought to do the same, Reds won 19-10 moving them to the finals in a rematch against the Huns. Little Rock eventually finished third in the tournament.

As they moved into the finals, Austin Huns marked their fourth straight finals appearance over the short 7s season, and their fourth meeting with the Dallas Reds, which Huns lead 3-0. The final meeting of two of the conference's most athletic teams was everything it was expected to be; high flying, fast paced, long-breaks, and our course tries with big hits. The Dallas Reds pushed out to an early lead by that half, up 19-5. The Huns played a 20-minute final with only 9 people. Since they were unable to make too many personnel changes at the half, they made strategic adjustments which proved to be effective. The Reds struck first after the half, scoring after the Huns received a penalty in their own 22. The Austin Hun then adjusted and scored three uncontested tries narrowing the gap. However, in the end, the Huns came up short losing by a try in the final minutes.

The Austin Huns end their conference 7s season campaign 18-1. They will be competing in their first Club 7s National Championship Tournament in club history. When asked about the historic moment, 1st-Year Huns Head Coach Jacob Liberman stated, “Qualifying for nationals is a nice result but as a 7s team we are far from a finished product. The results on the field are a nice validation of the hard work the players put in this summer. That being said, we have a lot of positive momentum right now. The players are hungry for success. We know nationals will be a big step up in competition but everyone involved is looking forward to the challenge.”

The National tournament takes place August 13-14, 2016. Tickets are on sale now at http://www.usaclub7s.com

Follow the Huns on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter (@AustinHunsRugby) to get the latest news on the Austin Huns, and the progression of becoming a Professional Team!

More photos from the event will soon be on our Facebook page, provided by Norma Salinas.

Denver will head into their match against Ohio with a four point advantage after beating San Francisco.

Highlights of the match, which was really terrific, can be found here.

The Rugby Republic has a nice profile of San Francisco's Devereaux Ferris.

Pat Clifton chats with new U.S.A. Rugby CEO Dan Payne about a variety of subjects.

The local news has more on Carlin Isles as well as Madison Hughes.

The Girl's High School All-Americans are set for their two match trip to Quebec.

Take the jump to read more.

Club/College:

The Harlequins are set for a visit to the U.S. with a lot of time spent in Northern California.

Graduate Assistant Todd Thornley has been promoted to head coach at Central Washington.

The Austin Huns have booked their spot at the Club 7s Nationals as the Red River series wraps up.

Utah and the Kansas City Blues qualified out of the Frontier even though Glendale won the Pioneer 7s.

Jackie Finlan has more on how the women's pools are shaking out for the tournament.

7s is getting some good coverage in New England with a nice feature. Rugby in Virginia's Prince William County also gets press.

The Nike Rugby Camps are fast approaching so sign up soon.

U.S.A. Rugby's Academic Honor Roll has been announced.

World:

Five years ago most of the Australian women's 7s wasn't even playing rugby.

A new agreement between clubs and the RFU means that Sam Underhill isn't going to be playing for England in awhile.

The Reds have hired Nick Stiles as their next head coach.

Photographera Connie Hatfield and David Barpal were at the San Diego-Sacramento match at Bonney Field last Saturday and took some great shots.

Connie Hatfield

Take the jump to read more.

David Barpal

Press Release

The PAC Conference has formally awarded the University of Arizona the 2016 PAC Rugby Sevens Championship at the Pima County Kino Sports Complex on November 12-13, 2016.

Arizona’s selection marks the first PAC Rugby Sevens Championship to be held in Tucson. The host site was selected via a formal bid process and evaluation by the conference members. The winning proposal was produced by the combined efforts from Visit Tucson, Pima County Kino Sports Complex, and the University of Arizona Men’s Rugby program.

With Rugby’s re-inclusion in the Summer Olympics headlining the upcoming games in Brazil next month, this year’s tournament will be the most anticipated to date in the event’s five-year history. The tournament moves to Tucson following a successful two-year stint at Cal, where last year’s hosts took home the crown as PAC champions. The conference’s Sevens prowess was on full display this past year, as Cal, UCLA, and Arizona finished in the top three of the Collegiate Rugby Championship Sevens on NBC as the Bears took home the title in front of record crowds.

Take the jump to read more.

For Arizona Head Coach Sean Duffy, the announcement is a win for the entire conference and puts the onus on the new hosts to carry on the legacy of this prestigious tournament. “We are ecstatic and thankful to be hosting this year’s championship and want to thank Visit Tucson and Kino Sports Complex for their hard work in helping us bring this event here” said Duffy. “We have had terrific editions of this tournament at Stanford, UCLA, and Cal in the past five years and it’s now our turn to carry the torch forward and make it the best yet.”

“We are excited for this partnership and opportunity to raise the level of Rugby in Tucson and provide the community with a positive economic source. This is just another step in putting Tucson on the Sports Events Industry map” said Jeffrey John of Visit Tucson Sports.

The tournament will take place at Pima County Kino Sports Complex, a 155 acre professional sports and entertainment venue in Tucson which features a 2,000 seat stadium along with additional match fields. The venue most recently hosted the 2016 USA Rugby Western Men’s & Women’s Senior Club National Quarterfinals & Semifinals this Spring. The event in November will feature teams from traditional PAC- 12 Universities, with a broadcast/webcast partner to be announced shortly.

Press Release

(TORONTO, ON) – Yesterday marked the final day of the 2016 Canadian Rugby Championship, presented by Johnsonville. The Ontario Blues went into their last game against the BC Bears tied for first place with the Prairie Wolf Pack with gold on their mind. The Atlantic Rock sat only one point behind them in the standings - making it a close race with any three of the top teams able to win it all on the final day.

The Prairie Wolf Pack defeated the Rock in an incredibly close 21-20 win earlier in the day at Swilers Rugby Club in St. Johns, N.L. Although the Blues only needed a win to finish atop the standings, they added a bonus point to finish at the top of the standings one point ahead of the Wolf Pack. They did just that shutting out western Canadian rivals BC Bears 50-21 at Fletcher’s Fields in Markham, ON.

With the match kicking off just after the Magnificent Sevens tournament ended, there was a large crowd out to support the home team as they picked up their fifth MacTier Cup in the past six seasons.

Take the jump to read more.
The Blues got onto the scoreboard early with a penalty kick from Andrew Ferguson in the 7th minute. Only 4 minutes later a Blues maul pushed Eric Howard over the try line allowing Ferguson to put another kick through the uprights to let the Bears know that Ontario came to play.

The Bears held strong for the rest of the half and kept the surging Blues at bay making it appear as though we were in for a close game. Ontario went to their room at half and came back with fire lit knowing what was on the line.

Only two minutes into the second half, Ontario lock Mike Sheppard stretched out to score the first try of the half while Ferguson made the conversion. Then in the 50th, 52nd and 59th minutes tries by Mitch Richardson, John Sheridan and Jordan Wilson-Ross increased the Blues lead to 36-0 making it seem as though there was no contest.

Just when the Blues thought they were in the clear, the BC side answered with two tries in two minutes by Josh Clark and Jorden Sandover-Best with two successful conversions by Brock Staller to let Ontario know they weren’t going out without a fight.
Their push was short lived when the Blues answered right back with two tries one minute apart from John Sheridan and Kainoa Lloyd – Mitch Richardson hit both conversions to bring the Blues to the 50 point mark.

The Bears had one final try in the last minute of the match from Gareth Marsden but it was too little too late. The Blues ran out the clock and secured their fifth Canadian Rugby Championship.

“The BC side kept the score close in the first half and definitely made us work” said Blues head coach Chris Silverthorn, following the match. “We knew what was at stake and although they finished at the bottom of the standings we definitely did not underestimate them and came in like any other game, ready to play”

“I’m so proud of all of these guys and all of the work they put in this year,” said captain Hank McQueen. “It feels good to win it all again and we worked well as a team - we also couldn’t have done it without all the staff that made it possible”

Ontario Blues Score Report

Tries: E. Howard (11), M. Sheppard (42), M. Richardson (50), J. Sheridan (52, 73), J. Wilson-Ross (59), K. Lloyd (74)
Conversions: A. Ferguson (11, 42, 52, 59), M. Richardson (73, 74)
Penalties: A. Ferguson (7)

British Columbia Bears Score Report

Tries: J. Clark (63) J. Sandover-Best (65), G. Marsden (79)
Conversions: B. Staller (63, 65, 79)

Ontario Blues Squad – Name (Club)

1. Rob Brouwer (Lindsay)*
2. Eric Howard (Brantford Harlequins)*
3. Tom Dolezel (London St. Georges)*
4.Hank McQueen (Balmy Beach) – captain
5. Mike Sheppard (Brampton Beavers)
6. Marcello Wainwright (Toronto Saracens)
7. Pete Milazzo (Toronto Saracens)
8. Andrew Wilson (Crusaders)*
9. Andrew Ferguson (Crusaders)*
10. Mitch Richardson (Stoney Creek)
11. Kainoa Lloyd (Mississauga Blues)
12. Derek Daypuck (London St. George’s)*
13. Dan West (Crusaders)
14. Dan Moor (Balmy Beach)*
15. Jordan Wilson-Ross (Barrie)*
16. Brendan Black (Markham Irish)
17. Doug Woolridge (Lindsay)*
18. Ryan Surgenor (Bytown Blues)
19. Adrian Wadden (Oakville Crusaders)
20. Myles Dingwall (Bytown Blues)
21. John Sheridan (Markham Irish)
22. Josh Campbell (London St. George’s)
23. Rich Lebel (Waterloo Counties)

*denotes Canadian capped player

Ontario Blues Staff

Chris Silverthorn – Head Coach
Paul Connelly – Assistant Coach
Mark Winokur – Manager
Rodin Lozada – Performance Analyst
Chris Kelly – Athletic Therapist
Dr. Chris Gallimore – Team Doctor

Ontario Blues 2016 Match Schedule:
Alberta Selects 9 v. Ontario Blues 19
Sunday, May 22, 2016*
1 p.m. MDT; 3 p.m. EDT
Ellerslie Park, Edmonton, Alta.

Ontario Blues 12 v. Atlantic Rock 22
Saturday, June 4, 2016
5 p.m. EDT
Sherwood Forest Park, Burlington, Ont.

Ontario Blues 0 v. England Counties 73
Saturday, June 11, 2016*
3:30 p.m. EDT
Fletcher’s Fields, Markham, Ont.

Atlantic Rock 13 v. Ontario Blues 24
Saturday, July 2, 2016
3 p.m. NDT; 1:30 p.m. EDT
Swilers RFC, St. John’s, N.L.

Ontario Blues 18 v. Prairie Wolf Pack 0
Thursday, July 21, 2016
6:30 p.m. EDT
Fletcher’s Fields, Markham, Ont.

Ontario Blues 50 v. British Columbia Bears 21
Sunday, July 24, 2016
3:30 p.m. EDT
Fletcher’s Fields, Markham, Ont.

* indicates non-CRC match

About Rugby Ontario:

Rugby Ontario is the provincial sports governing body responsible for the organization of rugby in Ontario. Our mission is to promote, govern, and develop rugby at all levels in a safe, affordable and enjoyable environment within the province of Ontario.
There are more than 10,000 Rugby Ontario members registered with 63 rugby clubs and four branch unions located across the province, with participation in age grades ranging from minor (age 6+) to masters (age 35+) in male and female divisions.
For more information, visit http://www.rugbyontario.com/

About Ontario Blues:

The Ontario Blues program is the high performance representative program for male rugby players in Ontario. It is designed to develop and showcase male athletes for Canadian national teams.
The senior team represents Ontario in the annual Canadian Rugby Championship, and has earned four national titles, having won the competition’s MacTier Cup annually from 2011-2014.
The under-19 team represents Ontario at the annual under-19 men’s Canadian Rugby Championship, and is designed to develop and showcase male athletes for the under-20 national team, as well as serving as a feeder program for the Ontario Blues senior team.

PRO Rugby POTW, Standings, & Scoring Leaders

Eagles Abroad: Weekend Preview

PRO Rugby Power Rankings: San Francisco Move Up

Pioneer 7s On Tap As Frontier Series Finale

PRO Rugby Weekend Rosters

Osborne, Picard Earn Full-Time Bonnies Gigs

Preview: Sacramento Hosts San Diego

Preview: San Francisco & Denver Hunting For Points

Late Run Propels Sacramento Past San Diego

Opening Kick

Utah, Kansas City Qualify For Club 7s Nationals

Harlequins Set For U.S. Visit

Nike Rugby Camps Fast Approaching

Denver Come Back To Beat San Francisco

Huns Book Trip To Club 7s Nationals

Video Highlights: Denver Beats San Francisco

Opening Kick

Photo Gallery: Sacramento Over San Diego

Arizona To Host Pac 7s

Ontario Win Canadian Rugby Championship