GHSAA Powered by Atavus return to France for Euro Sevens Championship

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LAFAYETTE, Colo. – Sunday marks the beginning of the GHSAA Powered by Atavus Women’s U18 Sevens journey toward a year-long anticipation for a title nearly missed in 2016. After losing to host country France, 24-34 in the finals, a fresh roster with some returning players hope to improve upon last year’s results. This being the second year the program will match up against tough international opposition, the future Olympic hopefuls will begin play with a hint of familiarity and confidence. The familiarity stemming from returning team members during the 2016 contest, Cassidy Bagell, Lolohea Makaafi, Julia Riekena and Kathryn Stowers. After some early training overseas, tournament play will commence September 16-17th at Stade Darragon.

Girls High School All-Americans powered by ATAVUS | Women’s U18 Sevens Roster (Blue Kit/Grey Kit):
1 / 25 Charity Tenney  (United, Utah)
2 / 5  Lolohea Makaafi  (Kent, Washington)
3 / 15 Cassidy Bargell (Summit, Colorado)
4 / 24 Kiarah Mosley (KC United, Missouri)
5 / 14 Brianna Vasquez (South Bay, Southern California)
6 / 27 Emily Henrich  (Orchard Park, New York)
7 / 7  Delaney Rakuita (Herriman, Utah)
8 / 6  Falalua Stowers (United, Utah)
9 / 9  Julia Riekena  (Missoula, Montana)
10 / 10  Alexandra Dimarco (White Horse, Pennsylvania)
11 / 11  McKenzie Borchers (Kingwood, Texas)
12 / 23  Kathryn Stowers (United, Utah)

Girls High School All-Americans powered by ATAVUS | Coaching Staff:
Emilie Bydwell, Head Coach
Michaela Staniford, Assistant Coach
Katherine Henry, Physiotherapist

While the tournament consists only of European teams, the United States, along with rival Canada, are special invites to compete next week. The US will find themselves competing in Pool B, with an opening match slated against Russia, followed by Wales and England. Defending champions France kick off pool play in group A, while the Americans hope to meet them in the knockout stages.

For those looking to cheer on and tune into the team matches, Rugby Europe will be streaming the 2017 U18 Sevens Championships online through rugbyeurope.tv. Details on time and access are yet to be posted, keep updated with the Pool B stat sheet for further information. The GHSAA Powered by ATAVUS Women’s U18 Sevens team takes off for Vichy, France on Sunday September 10th and hope to return September 18th with a championship in hand.