Men’s Eagles – USA Rugby Registration

United States Vs Argentina Roster & Preview

Kick off Oct 9 at 12:45 AM ET on NBCSN and NBC Sports Gold
KUMAGAYA, JPN. – Following a much-improved performance against France, the USA Men’s National Team XVs will face Argentina Weds, Oct 9 (KO 12:45 AM ET on NBCSN) in their third Pool C matchup of Rugby World Cup Japan 2019.
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MATCH-DAY 23

Head Coach Gary Gold has made eight changes from last week’s match against France.
Paul Lasike will start at center with Will Hooley shifting to the bench as both have recovered from injuries sustained against England. With Lasike in to start, Marcel Brache shifts from center to wing with Martin Iosefo moving to the reserves.
The backs will also see young Ruben de Haas start at scrumhalf in place of Shaun Davies, where the forwards will see Greg Peterson start at lock for Nick Civetta and Ben Landry claim a place on the bench. Nate Augspurger could also see his first taste of World Cup action as a reserve.
Alongside the changes comes a milestone to long-time No. 8 Cam Dolan who will earn his 50th test cap against Argentina. Dolan becomes the 11th Men’s National Team XVs player to cross the half-century mark after Captain Blaine Scully made his 50th test appearance against Canada in the Rugby World Cup warm-up.
The full match day 23 owns 570 cumulative test caps, the highest total which has featured in a match this World Cup.

STARTERS

PLAYER NAME	POSITION	CLUB	CAPS
1. Eric Fry	Prop	Vannes	46
2. Joe Taufete’e	Hooker	Worcester Warriors	25
3. Titi Lamositele	Prop	Saracens	30
4. Nate Brakeley	Lock	Rugby United New York	22
5. Greg Peterson	Lock	Newcastle Falcons	28
6. Tony Lamborn	Flanker	Melbourne Rebels (AUS) Hawke’s Bay Magpies (NZL)	21
7. Hanco Germishuys	Flanker	Glendale Raptors	19
8. Cam Dolan	No. 8	NOLA Gold	49
9. Ruben de Haas	Scrum Half	Free State Cheetahs	15
10. AJ MacGinty	Flyhalf	Sale Sharks	26
11. Marcel Brache	Wing	Western Force	21
12. Paul Lasike	Center	Harlequins	17
13. Bryce Campbell	Center	London Irish	30
14. Blaine Scully (C)	Wing	Unattached	52
15. Mike Te’o	Fullback	San Diego Legion	26

RESERVES

PLAYER NAME	POSITION	CLUB	CAPS
16. Dylan Fawsitt	Reserve	Rugby United New York	14
17. Olive Kilifi	Reserve	Seattle Seawolves	29
18. Paul Mullen	Reserve	Unattached	16
19. Ben Landry	Reserve	Ealing Trailfinders	23
20. Ben Pinkelman	Reserve	USA Sevens	3
21. Nate Augspurger	Reserve	San Diego Legion	24
22. Will Hooley	Reserve	Bedford Blues	13
23. Martin Iosefo	Reserve	USA Sevens	8

STAFF

LAST MATCH | FRA 33-9 USA

For majority of the game, the United States put France under pressure. Facing their counterparts for the first time in roughly 15 years, the Eagles emerged much more precise and clinical than they showed in their opening matchup against England.
The French committed countless penalties which allowed the U.S. to continuously make it into opposition territory and keep the scoreline within touching distance. By halftime, they were behind by only six points and in the 64th minute, another penalty kick by AJ MacGinty put the USA within only three points (12-9).
France ultimately broke open for another three converted tries to make it 33-9 but the final score was far from a reflection of the competitive nature of the game.
WATCH HIGHLIGHTS | VIEW STATS

THE MATCHUP | USA VS ARGENTINA

The Men’s Eagles and Argentina have met eight times with Los Pumas owning all eight wins. Both last faced each other in 2003 where the Argentinians ran away with an 42-8 victory.
Through the Americas Rugby Championship, the U.S. side has faced Argentina’s secondary side — Argentina XV — a number of times, drawing twice in 2016 and 2017 with their first win coming in 2018. Argentina XV claimed the most recent win in Buenos Aires this year.
Los Pumas will enter the matchup on a short four-day turnaround after a 39-10 loss to England. The USA returns following six days of rest and preparation from their France game.

COMMENTS FROM HEAD COACH GARY GOLD

“I am proud of the guys for the way they performed against France, disappointed of course that we didn’t get the result but it was still a massive improvement from the week before.
“Now we just need to build on that performance and continue to remain sharp and collected in the areas we feel will put us in the best position to compete against Argentina.
“We’ve got another opportunity ahead on Wednesday and are looking forward to showing what we can do.”

RUGBY WORLD CUP POOL C UPDATE

England increase their lead atop the Pool C standings with their third bonus point win over Argentina. France sit close behind in second place with a decisive clash against the English up ahead to determine who will head into the Quarterfinals as the top seed.

PL
3
3
3
3
USA

W
3
3
1
0
USA

D
0
0
0
0
USA

L
0
0
2
3
USA

TF
17
9
7
5
USA

PF
119
79
59
36
USA

PA
20
51
74
86
USA

PD
99
28
-15
-50
USA

BP
3
1
2
1
USA

POINTS
15
13
6
1
USA

Head Coach Gary Gold and Men's Eagles attend Florida High School rugby match

February 5, 2019/in News /by Sportlomo

Gary Gold and his Men’s Eagles team practiced in Fort Lauderdale, FL before journeying to South America for the Americas Rugby Championship tournament. On Saturday, Jan 26, Head Coach Gary Gold, Team Manager Chris Hanson, Strength and Conditioning Coach, Huw Bevan, flyhalf A.J. MacGinty, and Marcel Brache (serving as Eagles Captain with Blaine Scully out with injury) traveled to Sharks Field in Jupiter, FL to watch a high school match between the Jupiter Sharks and the Boca Raton Junior Buccaneers.
Before kick-off, Gold addressed the players, coaches and the parents with words of encouragement for youth rugby in the USA. MacGinty and Brache chatted with the reserve players on the sideline during the match, which left quite an impression on the young ruggers.

When asked what could be done to improve youth rugby in the USA, Gold’s first response was that youth rugby leagues should be playing touch rugby, not tackle, until the players are teenagers. He said that young USA ruggers needed more work on the fundamentals of passing, pass catching, use of space and teamwork. Gold said he had no worries about American tackling as that seems to come naturally.
Currently, in the Florida Youth Rugby Union, the boys teams start tackle rugby at the under 9 ages and that continues through all age groups. As a result of Coach Gold’s remarks, the union will be considering a possible change to the International FIT Touch Rugby rules for their under 9 through under 13 teams for the 2020 season.
Head Coach Gary Gold and the Eagles were great ambassadors for USA Rugby and their visit and advice will be remembered a long time by the Sharks and the Buccaneers.

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Rugby World Cup 2019 Tour Packages available with portion of proceeds benefiting the Men's Eagles

February 1, 2019/in News /by Sportlomo

Rugby World Cup 2019 tour packages moving quickly with limited availability still open.
Portion of revenue from remaining packages donated to Men’s Eagles through “Enhanced Eagles” (EE) supporter modules.
Travel options available for USA fans who have already secured RWC2019 match tickets, through Accommodation Only (AO) modules.

LAFAYETTE, CO – This Fall, USA Eagles Tours – the official touring agency of USA Rugby for Rugby World Cup 2019 – released 12 travel modules following the Men’s National Team to Rugby World Cup 2019 in Japan. In a revolutionary new approach, you the traveler now have full control over how, where and when you catch the Eagles matches come Fall 2019. As well as the United States Pool matches, you can purchase match tickets and accommodations for the opening match and ceremony, the Quarterfinals, Semifinals and World Cup Final. In between Eagles games, drop in and watch the New Zealand, South Africa, Ireland, Wales, England, Australia and the French for a truly world class rugby experience. USA Eagles Tours has direct ticket access to nearly all games in conjunction with just two or three night’s accommodation and a choice of hotel standards.

Match ticket allocations are limited and reserving faster than any previous Rugby World Cup. For information and booking details visit, usaeaglestours.info

USA Eagles Tours is additionally releasing full availability of its EE (Enhanced Eagles) & AO (Accommodation Only) Travel Modules for those who have secured their own Match Tickets through separate sources. These modules will include exclusive USA Rugby VIP “Invite Only’ game day breakfasts, limited edition USA Rugby – Rugby World Cup 2019 lapel pin, VIP gift bag and much more. Get it all from the Men’s Eagles in person.

You will be supporting USA Rugby in two ways as travelers to Rugby World Cup Japan 2019 if you choose one of the special EE or AO Travel Modules. Not only will reservations receive the full list of VIP benefits, but reservations will also make a direct contribution to the Men’s National Team. A portion of your EE or AO travel module fee goes directly to USA Rugby and is tax-deductible.

To inquire on booking EE or AO Travel Modules, visit usaeaglestours.us
To inquire on bookings including match tickets, visit usaeaglestours.info
Any questions or not sure about anything before you book email, info@usaeagelstours.com. You can also call 619-332-7288 with any questions.

About USA Eagles Tours

USA Eagles Tours is the Official Travel Agent (OTA) for Rugby World Cup in North America. Many of the staff you will meet in Japan 2019 have worked for our group on every Rugby World Cup dating back to New Zealand 1987. Our expertise is second to none. If what we offer does not suit you exactly, just give us a call and if we can help you – we will. The 12 Travel “Modules” on our main website accommodate from the tournament Opening Ceremony, right through every game to The Rugby World Cup Final. For more information visit www.usaeaglestours.info

Men's Eagles name roster for opening match of Americas Rugby Championship 2019 against Chile

January 31, 2019/in News /by Sportlomo

SANTIAGO, CHL. – The U.S. Men’s National Team 15s has named it’s match-day roster to face Chile in the first round of the Americas Rugby Championship 2019 this Saturday, Feb 2 at 1 PM ET, LIVE on FloRugby. As reigning two-time Champions, the Eagles will begin the chase to secure their third-consecutive title in the opening of a Rugby World Cup year.

Headlining the squad as Captain is wing Marcel Brache who takes on the role with Blaine Scully out due to injury. Brache owns 12 caps with the Eagles and has been a leader amongst the group since his debut in 2016. The athlete scored his first two tries in a breakout game against Russia last summer in Denver, CO.

Suiting up as Brache’s counterpart on the wing is Gannon Moore who recently earned his first cap in the team’s historic first ever victory over Samoa last November.

The backline are also joined by the official return of flyhalf AJ MacGinty who was forced to miss the November Internationals last year due to injury. With MacGinty in, Will Magie will start at fullback.

Records could be broken within the forward pack as hooker Joe Taufete’e is currently two tries away of becoming the highest scoring front row forward in World Rugby history. Taufete’e owns 14 career tries where Ireland’s Keith Wood currently holds the record at 15 tries.

Wood reached the record after a nine year career as a national team player whereas Taufete’e was first capped with the Eagles in 2015. The achievement would be an incredible feat for USA’s hooker having done so in only four years and what will be his 20th cap.

Overall, ten total players in Saturday’s lineup come from professional teams in Major League Rugby with Tadhg Leader — Captain of the New England Free Jacks — having the opportunity to earn his first cap from the bench. The full match-day 23 features a cumulative total of 343 caps.

Head Coach Gary Gold said: “Our first challenge of the ARC will not be easy, playing the Chilean side in their home territory. Chile plays a very passionate and physical game and given this is the start of a long tournament, we must play to our strengths to establish the momentum we need to carry us through the competition. Of course, we want to win our third ARC title, but that will be even more difficult as all teams have come back with a renewed physicality. This is the start of our Rugby World Cup year and we must ensure our guys are prepared to manage the intensity in each game for the full 80 minutes.”

The USA sits on the better side of a 4-1 overall record with the Chileans and won their previous three matchups in the ARC with a bonus point win. Last time the two faced off, the Eagles walked away with a 45-13 victory on home soil. Given Chile has certainly strengthened since last facing the United States, and with the U.S. Men’s National Team looking to maintain their form, Saturday’s matchup will set the tone for the next six weeks.

Following Chile, the United States will face Argentina XV in Rio Negro on Sat, Feb 9 before all teams rest for a bye week. After the break, the Eagles will play three matches in USA against Brazil (Feb 23) in Austin, TX, as well as Uruguay (Mar 2) and rival-Canada (Mar 8) in Seattle, WA.

Tickets to watch the Eagles play at home in the Americas Rugby Championship 2019 are available at usarugby.org/tickets. All USA matches of the tournament will be broadcast LIVE on FloRugby exclusively in the United States.

Men’s Eagles Starting Roster | USA vs Chile

Player	Position	Club	Caps
1. Titi Lamositele	Prop	Saracens (ENG)	26
2. Joe Taufete’e	Hooker	Worcester Warriors (ENG)	19
3. Dino Waldren	Prop	London Scottish (ENG)	15
4. Greg Peterson	Lock	Bordeaux Bégles (FRA)	20
5. Nick Civetta	Lock	Doncaster Knights (ENG)	18
6. John Quill	Flanker	Rugby United New York	29
7. Hanco Germishuys	Flanker	Glendale Raptors	11
8. Cam Dolan	No. 8	NOLA Gold	40
9. Shaun Davies	Scrumhalf	Glendale Raptors	19
10. AJ MacGinty	Flyhalf	Sale Sharks (ENG)	20
11. Marcel Brache (C)	Wing	Western Force (AUS)	12
12. Paul Lasike	Center	Harlequins (ENG)	9
13. Bryce Campbell	Center	London Irish (ENG)	21
14. Gannon Moore	Wing	Utah Warriors	2
15. Will Magie	Fullback	Glendale Raptors	19

Men’s Eagles Reserves | USA vs Chile

Player	Position	Club	Caps
16. James Hilterbrand	Reserve	Manly Marlins (AUS)	16
17. Chance Wenglewski	Reserve	Lindenwood University	1
18. Paul Mullen	Reserve	Houston SaberCats	6
19. Nate Brakeley	Reserve	Rugby United New York	15
20. Tevita Tameilau	Reserve	Glasgow Warriors (SCO)	12
21. Ruben de Haas	Reserve	Free State Cheetahs (RSA)	7
22. Tadhg Leader	Reserve	New England Free Jacks	0
23. Dylan Audsley	Reserve	San Diego Legion	6

USA Men’s Eagles Staff

Americas Rugby Championship 2019 Schedule

LIVE on FloRugby in the United States

Saturday, Feb. 2
vs Chile | 1 PM ET
Santiago, CHL

Saturday, Feb 9
vs Argentina XV | 3 PM ET
Rio Negro, ARG

BYE WEEK

Saturday, Feb 23
vs Brazil | 7:10 PM CT
Dell Diamond, Austin, TX
Get Tickets

Saturday, Mar 2
vs Uruguay | 7:10 PM PT
Starfire Sports, Seattle, WA
Get Tickets

Friday, Mar 8
vs Canada | 7:10 PM PT
Starfire Sports, Seattle, WA
Get Tickets

###

About the Americas Rugby Championship

The Americas Rugby Championship (ARC) is an international, round-robin competition at the test level which features six competing teams from North and South America including Argentina XV, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Uruguay and USA. All matches contested in the ARC count for rankings points and test caps with the exception of those played against Argentina XV who compete as a secondary national team. Originally introduced as a development tournament, the Americas Rugby Championship began operating at the senior international level in 2016 where Argentina XV (who remained as part of the setup) claimed the inaugural championship and USA took runners-up. USA are currently reigning champions having won both the 2017 and 2018 ARC with Argentina XV runners-up in both years.

ARC Points Structure

Win – 4 points
Draw – 2 points
Loss – 0 points

Bonus
Scoring 4+ tries – 1 point
Losing by 7 or fewer points – 1 point

Quick Links

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World Rugby selects Match Officials for Americas Rugby Championship

December 18, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

World Rugby has confirmed the referees appointed for the Americas Rugby Championship. The six-team round-robin competition features Argentina XV and the national teams of Brazil, Chile, Canada, Uruguay and USA with the matches played from February 2 to March 9, 2019.

A team of nine referees will officiate the matches with each of the six participating nations represented in the referees line-up.

USA will begin their quest for a third successive Americas Rugby Championship title when they travel to Chile for the opening match on February 2 and finish their campaign when they host rivals Canada on March 8 in Seattle.

World Rugby Match Officials Selection Committee Chair Anthony Buchanan said: “It is very pleasing that we have been able to appoint referees from all six nations represented in the Americas Rugby Championship 2019. The competition will provide an excellent opportunity to assess and develop the potential of this group of referees in what promises to be a highly competitive and exciting tournament, with holders USA recently reaching their highest ever world ranking of twelfth.”

[su_attention url=”usarugby.org/tickets” text=”GET TICKETS FOR USA HOME MATCHES IN ARC 2019 HERE”]

Americas Rugby Championship 2019 Referee Assignments

ROUND	DATE	HOME TEAM	AWAY TEAM	REFEREE
Round 1	Feb 2	Uruguay	Canada	Frederico Anselmi (Arg)
	Feb 2	Chile	USA	Damian Schneider (Arg)
	Feb 2	Argentina XV	Brazil	Joaquin Montes (Uruguay)

Round 2	Feb 9	Argentina XV	USA	Francisco Gonzalez (Uruguay)
	Feb 9	Brazil	Canada	Frank Mendez (Chile)
	Feb 8	Uruguay	Chile	Frederico Anselmi (Arg)

Round 3	Feb 22	Canada	Chile	Henrique Platais (Brazil)
	Feb 23	USA	Brazil	Damian Schneider (Arg)
	Feb 23	Argentina XV	Uruguay	Derek Summers (USA)

Round 4	March 1	Canada	Argentina XV	Derek Summers (USA)
	March 2	USA	Uruguay	Pablo Deluca (Arg)
	March 2	Brazil	Chile	Joaquin Montes (Uruguay)

Round 5	March 8	USA	Canada	Pablo Deluca (Arg)
	March 9	Chile	Argentina XV	Francisco Gonzalez (Uruguay)
	March 9	Uruguay	Brazil	Moe Chaudry (Canada)

Schedule set for World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup 2019

December 17, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

Schedule announced for World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup 2019
USA to host rival-Canada at Infinity Park in Glendale, CO on July 27
Men’s Eagles to play Samoa on August 3 and Japan August 10 in Suva, Fiji

LAFAYETTE, CO. – World Rugby has today announced the schedule for the Pacific Nations Cup 2019 taking place over three rounds from July 27 to August 10 of the new year. The competition is part of a readiness program for Rugby World Cup 2019 with the Men’s Eagles hosting rival-Canada at in their opening match at Infinity Park in Glendale, CO on July 27.

Along with rival-Canada, the United States will also face Samoa and World Cup hosts Japan at Anz Stadium in Suva, Fiji on August 3 and August 10, respectively. In total, six teams will compete in the annual competition including Fiji and Tonga. All games will be contested in a cross-pool format with points awarded at each round and the highest number of points at the conclusion of the tournament crowning a champion.

All six teams in the Pacific Nations Cup or PNC, are qualified for Rugby World Cup Japan giving fans a much anticipated preview of what’s to come at the World’s third-largest single-sport event later that year. Similarly, the high quality of competition — with all teams ranked in the world’s Top 20 — will bode well as the Eagles continue to build on their new high of No. 12 in the world. The Eagles are accompanied by Fiji at No. 8, Japan at No. 11, Tonga at No. 14, Samoa at No. 16 and Canada at No. 20.

USA last participated in the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup in 2015 where they came in fifth-place. The tournament was last hosted in 2018 with four teams competing and Fiji claiming their fourth-consecutive title with a win over Georgia.

Ahead of the PNC 2019, the Eagle men will open their World Cup year with the Americas Rugby Championship 2019 where they’ll hope to secure their third-consecutive title.

General Manager for Men’s 15s Programs Dave Hodges said: “We’re looking forward to strengthening our schedule and preparation for Rugby World Cup Japan 2019 with three test matches in the Pacific Nations Cup. Hosting our northern rivals Canada after what we know will be a fiercely contested Americas Rugby Championship at the beginning of the year will be great for our home fans. Adding to that two matches against Samoa and Japan will allow our men to test our strengths and increase our depth with a competitive lineup before the World Cup.”

World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: “With all roads leading to Rugby World Cup 2019, it is exciting to announce that six participating unions, Canada, Fiji, hosts Japan, Samoa, Tonga and USA will feature in the World Rugby Pacific Cup 2019 line-up.

“This announcement reflects our commitment to provide a strong preparation platform for these unions immediately prior to our showcase event, to build excitement in two host cities and deliver an important programme of testing and readiness ahead of Asia’s first Rugby World Cup.”

Tickets to see the United States face rival-Canada at Infinity Park as part of the World Rugby Pacific Nations Cup will be on sale in the coming weeks. In the meantime, fans can still select their seats for one of the Men’s Eagles home matches in the Americas Rugby Championship at usarugby.org/tickets.

Rugby World Cup Japan 2019 will take place from September 20 to November 2, 2019 with the United States drawn in Pool C alongside England, France, Argentina and Tonga. Tickets will be back on sale January 19 while Official Supporter Tour and Hospitality packages can be purchased now at rugbyworldcup.com/tickets.

Pacific Nations Cup 2019 Schedule

Round 1: Saturday, July 27

Fiji vs Japan | Kamaishi, Japan
USA vs Canada | Colorado, USA
Tonga vs Samoa | Apia, Samoa

Round 2: Saturday, August 3

Tonga vs Japan | Hanazono, Japan
USA vs Samoa | Anz Stadium, Suva, Fiji
Fiji vs Canada | Anz Stadium, Suva, Fiji

Round 3: Friday, August 9

Tonga vs Canada | Churchill Park, Lautoka

Round 3: Sat, August 10

USA vs Japan | Anz Stadium, Suva, Fiji
Fiji vs Samoa | Anz Stadium, Suva, Fiji

Kick off Times Announced for 2019 Americas Rugby Championship

December 5, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

Americas Rugby Championship kick off times announced
Canada books ticket to 2019 Rugby World Cup; the 4th ARC union to qualify alongside Argentina, Uruguay and the USA.
USA climbs to 12th in World Rugby rankings; an all-time high

Rugby Americas has released the kick-off times for the 2019 Americas Rugby Championship. First played in 2016, 2019 marks the 4th edition of the ‘ARC.’ The tournament consists of the national teams from USA, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Uruguay and Argentina’s developmental side, the Argentina XV. Argentina XV won the inaugural tournament in 2016 with the USA earning the title in ’17 & ’18.

The preeminent rugby competition across North and South America, the Americas Rugby Championship is happy to announce that 2019 ARC schedule has been designed, much to the delight of fans and broadcasters alike, with zero overlap amongst each of the 3 games that take place each weekend.

Date	Home	Away	City	Venue	Kick-off (time, local)
2-Feb	Argentina	Brazil	Neuquen, ARG	Neuquen RC	17:00
2-Feb	Chile	USA	Santiago, CHI	TBD	TBD
2-Feb	Uruguay	Canada	Montevideo, URU	Estadio Charrúa	21:40
8-Feb	Uruguay	Chile	Estadio Charrúa, URU	Estadio Charrúa	20:10
9-Feb	Argentina	USA	Río Negro, ARG	Marabunta RC	17:00
9-Feb	Brazil	Canada	Sao Paulo, BRA	TBD	20:15
22-Feb	Canada	Chile	Langford, BC	Westhills Stadium	19:10
23-Feb	USA	Brazil	Austin, TX	Dell Diamond	19:10
23-Feb	Argentina	Uruguay	Buenos Aires, ARG	TBD	11:40
1-Mar	Canada	Argentina	Langford, BC	Westhills Stadium	19:10
2-Mar	Brazil	Chile	Sao Paulo, BRA	TBD	18:10
2-Mar	USA	Uruguay	Seattle, WA	Starfire Sports	19:10
8-Mar	USA	Canada	Seattle, WA	Starfire Sports	19:10
9-Mar	Uruguay	Brazil	Montevideo, URU	Estadio Charrúa	19:15
9-Mar	Chile	Argentina	Santiago, CHI	TBD	TBD

*Broadcast information will be announced mid-December.

Canada qualifies for 2019 Rugby World Cup

Canada earned a 3-0 record in the World Rugby repechage tournament in Marseille, France and claimed the 20th and final remaining spot for the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan. The Canadians defeated Kenya, Germany, and Hong Kong to book their ticket in Pool B where they will play alongside defending champions New Zealand, South Africa, Italy and Namibia.

The 2019 RWC will mark Canada’s 9th and earns them the distinction of having played in each tournament since the event’s inception in 1987. The only other ARC union to achieve this feat is Argentina. The USA will play in its eight RWC and next year will be Uruguay’s fourth Rugby World Cup.

Americas Rugby CEO Dan Payne said: “Having Canada qualify to Rugby World Cup 2019 keeps their record intact of competing in each tournament. Furthermore, it adds competitive value and purpose for the Americas Rugby Championship 2019 as four team’s will be using the tournament as a crucial part of their preparation for Japan 2019. For Brazil and Chile the opportunity of testing themselves against these teams presents itself as they begin focusing on the road to RWC 2023.”

“Our tournament has gone from strength to strength since it was born in 2016 and with cities and kick-off times already cast in stone, teams and fans can start focusing on preparing for what is certainly North & South Americas premier rugby competition.”

Played over a six-week period, the round-robin tournament includes one bye weekend for the first time to ensure player welfare is at the top of the agenda for the Americas Rugby Championship.

USA, Uruguay & Canada climb in rankings after November tests; #12 USA highest in country’s history

The USA capped off 2018 with a best-ever 9-1 record in test matches, a record that included first time victories over Scotland and Samoa.

As a result, the eagles climbed from #17 to start 2018 to a #12 World Rugby Ranking to finish the year; 12th is the highest the Eagles have ever been ranked in the history of World Rugby Rankings.

Uruguay also finished on an upswing with a historic win over Romania 27-20 in Bucharest. The victory was the first time Uruguay has beaten Romania and the result allowed Los Teros to finish 2018 with a #17 WR ranking. The ranking is Los Teros best mark since 2004.

Keeping consistent with their peers, Canada finished November 3-0, qualified for the Rugby World Cup and, as a result, finished the 2018 season up from 23rd to a World Rugby ranking at #20.

Final 2018 Americas Rugby Championship Countries World Rugby Rankings

Argentina	10
United States	12
Uruguay	17
Canada	20
Brazil	28
Chile	29

Injury Update for Men's Eagle Joe Taufete'e

November 25, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

DUBLIN, IRE. – During the Men’s Eagles match with No. 2 Ireland last evening, USA hooker Joe Taufete’e was taken off the field following a head injury.

Taufete’e was then brought to the hospital where all testing came back negative. The Eagle will continue to be monitored through the week in accordance with gradual return to play protocol.

USA Rugby and the U.S. Men’s National Team extend their gratitude to the medical staff who immediately sprung into action to attend to Taufete’e; as well as to the many support staff with the Irish Rugby Football Union.

The United States men fell to Ireland 57-14 following the conclusion to their November Internationals 2018. Marking the finale of the most historic season of all time for the Men’s Eagles, the USA men will next return in February for the Americas Rugby Championship 2019 as preparation for Rugby World Cup Japan comes full swing.

Men's Eagles named for final battle of Autumn Internationals 2018 with No. 2 Ireland

November 22, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

DUBLIN, IRE. – Head Coach Gary Gold has named his match-day 23 to face No. 2 Ireland in the Men’s Eagles’ final matchup of the Autumn Internationals 2018 this Saturday at 1:30 PM ET, LIVE on ESPN+.

The full squad features three changes to the starting lineup with two adjustments made on the bench. Chief among them is the anticipated return of scrum half Shaun Davies who jumps back in the mix after completing HIA protocol. As Davies returns, Ruben de Haas will take his place with the reserves.

Changes to the starting XV continue with Hanco Germishuys in at flanker, Marcel Brache shifting to wing and Will Hooley in at fullback. Germishuys replaces Tony Lamborn who flew home earlier this week to recover from injury, while Hooley returns after being pulled from last week’s battle with Romania as a precaution.

With adjustments to the starting lineup made, Eagle Samu Manoa will feature as a reserve alongside newcomer Chance Wenglewski. Wenglewski joined the Eagles for their November opener against the Maori All Blacks in Chicago and has the opportunity to earn his first cap from the bench.

The No. 13 Men’s Eagles will take the pitch at Aviva Stadium for the first time since 2004 having last faced Ireland in 2017 at Red Bull Arena in New Jersey. In 2017, the United States men fell to a 19-55 Irish victory.

“We know this weekend will present our greatest challenge yet with the Ireland side still buzzing from their historic victory over the All Blacks,” said Head Coach Gary Gold. “Ireland will be relentless as ever this weekend and our guys have spent the last week ensuring that they approach Saturday’s game with the level of intensity that will put us in the best position to meet the fight.”

As an unprecedented year of test match rugby comes to a close, the Men’s National Team will focus on using Saturday’s contest to build on the momentum established through 2018. Ireland is equally looking to close out their year in a position of strength after winning the NatWest 6 Nations 2018 and notching their biggest victory on home soil last week against the All Blacks.

Despite the implications for both sides, one thing is undoubtedly certain: come this Saturday, Aviva Stadium will be raucous with energy from USA and Irish fans alike.

U.S. Men’s National Team Starting Roster

Player	Position	Club	Caps
1. Titi Lamositele	Prop	Saracens (ENG)	25
2. Joe Taufete’e	Hooker	Worcester Warriors (ENG)	18
3. Paul Mullen	Prop	unattached	5
4. Greg Peterson	Lock	Glasgow Warriors (SCO)	19
5. Nick Civetta	Lock	Doncaster Knights (ENG)	17
6. John Quill	Flanker	Glendale Raptors	29
7. Hanco Germishuys	Flanker	unattached	10
8. Cam Dolan	No. 8	NOLA Gold	39
9. Shaun Davies	Scrumhalf	Glendale Raptors	18
10. Will Magie	Flyhalf	Glendale Raptors	18
11. Marcel Brache	Wing	Perth/Western Force (AUS)	11
12. Paul Lasike	Center	Harlequins (ENG)	8
13. Bryce Campbell	Center	London Irish (ENG)	20
14. Blaine Scully (C)	Wing	Cardiff Blues (WAL)	42
15. Will Hooley	Fullback	Bedford Blues (ENG)	6

U.S. Men’s National Team Reserves

Player	Position	Club	Caps
16. Dylan Fawsitt	Reserve	Old Blue New York / Rugby United New York	6
17. Chance Wenglewski	Reserve	Lindenwood University	0
18. Dino Waldren	Reserve	London Scottish (ENG)	14
19. Samu Manoa	Reserve	Cardiff Blues (WAL)	22
20. David Tameilau	Reserve	Glasgow Warriors (SCO)	11
21. Ruben de Haas	Reserve	Free State Cheetahs (RSA)	6
22. Gannon Moore	Reserve	North Harbour Rugby (NZL)	2
23. Ryan Matyas	Reserve	San Diego Legion	12

U.S. Men’s National Team Staff

U.S. Men’s National Team Schedule

vs Maori All Blacks | 22-59 (L)

vs Samoa | 30-29 (W)

vs Romania | 31-5 (W)

vs Ireland
Sat, Nov. 24 | 1:30 PM ET
Aviva Stadium, Dublin, IRE
LIVE on ESPN+

*Times subject to change.

USA v Brazil match relocated to Austin for the 2019 Americas Rugby Championship

November 21, 2018/in News /by Sportlomo

2019 Americas Rugby Championship match between USA and Brazil moved from Houston to Austin, TX
Due to recent weather in Houston, the new Aveva Stadium has experienced delays in construction and is not projected to be operational by match time in late February.
Date, time, broadcast and competing teams remain the same as announced.

LAFAYETTE, CO – The first home match for the Men’s Eagles during the 2019 Americas Rugby Championship is relocating from Aveva Stadium in Houston to Dell Diamond in Round Rock outside of Austin, TX. Due to a heavy influx of rain in recent weeks, the new home venue to the Houston SaberCats has experienced a delay in construction and is not projected to be operational come match time on February 23. USA Rugby has aligned with the Austin Elite franchise of Major League Rugby and home venue Dell Diamond to move the event just down the road.

Special ticket packages have also been arranged as Austin Elite host the San Diego Legion on Friday, February 22 – also at Dell Diamond. For fans encouraged to experience a rugby-filled weekend, both the MLR and USA Eagles match will be available as part of a discounted ticket package. More information on ticketing will be released shortly.

Tickets for the match will soon hit the market as pre-sale seats will be available to the USA Rugby pre-sale list along with Austin Elite and Round Rock Express season ticket holders on Tuesday, November 27. Tickets will then be available to the general public on Thursday, November 29.

“Bringing an International Test match to the City of Round Rock and Austin is a formidable opportunity for us to showcase to our community our dedication to the sport in Central Texas,” said Austin Elite President and Owner, Richard Osborn, “With a world class venue like Dell Diamond, we believe this eventful weekend of rugby will be an unforgettable experience for all fans.”

Osborne continued, “The City of Round Rock and Austin have everything from hotels, restaurants and entertainment to become a great destination for international events like this, get ready for an amazing weekend.”

The Men’s Eagles will run out onto familiar ground at Dell Diamond having already faced Brazil there during the 2016 Americas Rugby Championship. The United States won, 51-3. Gary Gold’s squad will look to repeat as they compete for a third straight ARC title.

To join the USA Rugby pre-sale list for USA vs Brazil in Austin, please submit your information here.

About Austin Elite Rugby

Austin Elite Rugby is a Professional Rugby team based in Austin and Round Rock, Texas, and we are excited to bring Professional Rugby to Central Texas. As a founding member of Major League Rugby, Austin Elite Rugby embodies the sport’s inclusive ethos. Developing players from youth to professional is at the heart of Austin Elite Rugby, creating a world-class experience for players and fans to enjoy the game. The 2019 Major League Rugby season kicks off the weekend of January 26 and will span 19 weeks with home matches being played at the iconic Dell Diamond, a 13,000-capacity stadium in the City of Round Rock / North Austin.

About Dell Diamond

A state-of-the-art facility, Dell Diamond has been the home of the Round Rock Express since its inception in 2000. The stadium serves as a premier Central Texas destination and is constantly ranked among the top in Minor League Baseball. Dell Diamond is a true multi-purpose sports and entertainment complex, hosting Express games, rugby and soccer matches, concerts, expos, festivals and many other events. Dell Diamond truly is a “home-grown” project, with 80 percent of the materials used for the construction purchased from suppliers within the state of Texas.

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