Opening Kick

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

All-Americans/Eagles/7's:

The College All-Americans wrapped up their tour of Ireland yesterday by taking on the Leinster Academy. Unfortunately, the All-Americans lost the match 29-14.

Head coach Matt Sherman breaks down the loss for Rugbymag. (Membership required)

Canada has named a strong team for this months 7's RWC qualifiers.

Rugby Canada continues to preview teams for the NACRA qualifiers later this month in Ottawa. This time the profile Caribbean champ Guyana.

Will the U.S. rugby team make it on NBC in four years? That is the question posed by Gainline.

College:

Yesterday an article claimed that the University of Utah had not committed to the Varsity Cup. The school reached out to T.I.A.R. to refute that story and confirm the Utes are in the competition.

Club:

The rosters for the National All-Star Championship have been announced. The field is quite strong with both the Pacific Coast and SoCal rosters standing out.

Up north in Canada, the Canadian Rugby Championship will kick off this weekend.

Women:

One of the most overlooked aspects of rugby's inclusion in the Olympics is the impact it will have on the women's game.

Tidbits/World:

Rugbymag has added to their profile be featuring a reprint of Rugby Coach Weekly. (Membership required)

Could the U.S. find new talent in Guam? The Guam 7's took place over the weekend and it featured the island's top players.

Rugby fans can rejoice. The Rugby Championship begins this weekend! ESPNScrum has a preview.