Opening Kick

Opening Kick is a segment devoted to bringing you all Eagles and U.S.A. Rugby news in one location.

Eagles/7's:

The Eagles Selects had a disappointing outing against Canada yesterday in the Americas Rugby Championship, losing 23-3.

The team will play Uruguay next, who lost to the Argentina Jaguars 21-10.

Carlin Isles is drawing a lot of attention for his speed. His try against Tonga made the Seven of the Best tries down in the Gold Coast.

Mike Petri, writing for RugbyRugby, says that brining in XV's stars for the Olympics would not be the right decision.

Women:

Nigel Melville, Pam Kosanke, and other officials were down in Houston yesterday (includes audio) to talk about the new Women's IRB Sevens Series.

College:

Texas A&M have qualified for the 7's nationals (to be played in College Station) by winning the SEC over the weekend. Here is the all-tournament team.

Many people wondered if the realignment to more NCAA based conferences would result in blowouts and mismatches. While it has been perfect, Pat Clifton says that overall play is improving.

Gainline argues that college 7's has derailed the idea of a unified season.

Utah is known for having some of the best rugby teams in the country. Dixie State, which is in the south of the state, is hoping to join that list.

Youth:

One of the names for the High School All-Americans assembly in December has been announced. Darien Pickett from West Potomac, Virginia will be with the team.

World:

Referee Bryce Lawrence has retired and his going down swinging.

By and large, the extended powers of the TMO have been judged to be a success in the Premiership.

Northampton boss Jim Mallinder is upset his team only has a five day turnaround between matches.

France have called in 18-year old Gael Fickou for their fall tests. He is joined by several other young players on the team.

A cross-code coaches union has been launched in England.

Speaking of coaches, the British & Irish Lions assistants won't be named until December.

Despite warm overtures from Brian O'Driscoll, Waratahs coach Michael Cheika is not willing to commit to bringing in the Irish star.

Tidbits:

U.S.A. Rugby has launched their 2013 National Development Summit website.

Here is an interesting look at some of the challenges players face once they retire.